Portugal has received the “Safe Travels” global safety and hygiene stamp delivered by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) which aims to recognize governments and businesses that have adopted standardized health and hygiene global protocols in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Other recipients of the stamp were Cancun (Mexico), Saudi Arabia, Barcelona and Seville (Spain).
The initiative is backed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and is designed to rebuild confidence among travelers.
The “Safe Travel” protocols give priority to the health of travelers and hospitality workers, and are based on available medical evidence, following guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO). The goal is to have a set of consistent, standardized, global health and safety guidelines for countries, destinations, travel providers, operators, and travelers.
“Travelers will be able to recognize the businesses and destinations that have adopted the new set of global protocols that encourage safe travel,” said Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO. “It will also help the Travel & Tourism sector to reopen for business and move in a coordinated approach.”
In the meantime, Portugal is ready to welcome tourists. While some health checks will be introduced at airports, there will be no compulsory quarantine for those flying in. Portugal has been one of the least affected countries in Europe.
“Portugal has been committed in reassuring that tourists will always have the best experience in our country,” said Rita Marques, the Portuguese Secretary of State for Tourism. “The stamp, together with our “Clean & Safe” program, is one step further in reassuring everyone that we care and that trust is at the core of our business.”
