Gozo Tourism Association asks for lifting of leisure travelling restrictions

Apr 22 2021

The tourism sector of Gozo stated that it awaits the moment tourists will be able to travel to the island, with the 1st of June being the set target. Maltese visitors are still however not allowed to travel to Gozo unless residents or for employment reasons, as stated by the measures implemented last March. Despite understanding the dire case COVID-19 creates, the GTA is asking for a lifting of restrictions for leisure travel to Gozo.

A date as to when domestic travel can occur is also a viable option for the GTA, as it will be a relief for many in the accommodation sector. Preparations will also be made easier for those working in the sector in order to be ready to kickstart their business when travelling restarts. Along with this, the association urges for more vaccinations to be administered in Gozo so as to make the island safe for travellers.

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PhotoSource: PlanetWare, MyGuideMalta

India reports global record of COVID-19 cases at 314K in 24 hours

Apr 22 2021

India has hit the grim record of more than 314000 COVID-19 infections on Thursday. India is the world’s second most populated country, sending ever increasing numbers of sick people into a health care which is beyond struggling to maintain control to the pandemic’s effects. The 314K infections added in a day raise the total for India past 15.9 million since the pandemic began.

It is second only to the United States. 2,104 deaths were recorded in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death count to 184,657. The New Delhi High Court has ordered the government to divert oxygen from industrial use to hospitals to save people’s lives, with judges responding to a petition by the hospital stating; ‘Beg, borrow, or steal, it is a national emergency.’

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Staycations have become the new vacation

Apr 22 2021

While the concept of staycations has been around for some time now, the Covid-19 pandemic has been the driving force that put this style of vacationing back on the map as border closures forced people to put their big travel plans on hold. So, instead of hopping on an airplane and heading to the other side of the globe, feed your travel bug and rediscover your own country.

Here are the top six reasons that will make you want to travel locally and explore lesser-known marvels within your country:

More affordable

By choosing a staycation, you will avoid the heavy costs that come with international travel, including booking flights, accommodation for long periods of time, transportation, and surprisingly expensive meals at a city you may not know very well. And since staycations are cheaper, you‘ll have more spending money.

Reduced Travel Time

Reduced travel time allows for more relaxing, adventuring, and fulfilling moments during your trip, whether it’s treating yourself by going to a nearby spa or discovering hidden gems locally. Traveling internationally also requires a lot of planning and organisation beforehand; from budgeting to reading up about the culture and looking for well-priced decent accommodation… … the list could go on and on.

Pets are more likely to be welcome

Staying home also means it is easier to take pets on your staycation. Whether you are camping, glamping, or in a pet-friendly rental – your pet will love the getaway as much as you.

Support local economy

A staycation is the perfect opportunity to support the local economy by trying out new restaurants, visiting local museums and uncovering tourist attractions that you would never ordinarily visit. During your “stay-at-home holidays”, you’ll visit local food markets, try out new eateries, and probably book a nearby comfy accommodation, which will certainly boost local revenue and sustainable travel efforts.

Be a tourist in your own country

The thing is that sometimes we get so caught up in going abroad, that we forget how beautiful our own country can be. A staycation might give you the opportunity to feel like a tourist, without having to travel somewhere. You can appreciate things through a new perspective and discover things about your home you didn’t even know existed.

Be prepared

If you’re visiting a number of hidden gems, make sure you get yourself sorted with a motor policy. For the young adventurers, GasanMamo’s BOOSH gives you an instant 65% discount on your policy. And always check that your home insurance is up to date especially if you’re’ planning to leave it unattended for a few days. Find out more on www.gasanmamo.com

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Photo Source: @dejfit.d

European Union ramps up vaccination efforts to beat back COVID-19 spike

Apr 22 2021

With the one shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine adding to the momentum, the European Union has ramped up COVID-19 vaccination efforts in order to curb a spike in cases. Comparatively, the EU lags far behind the US and UK in its total of vaccinated citizens, with only 1 in 5 of the bloc’s 450 million inhabitants having received their first jab.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which has been approved for use after being halted due to blood clot rumours, will play a pivotal role due to it being a one shot vaccine. France has administered at least one dose to all of its 700,000 nursing home residents. Other countries, including Italy and Netherlands, are pressing ahead with plans to start dispensing Johnson & Johnson shots. With many hospitals in the EU under immense pressure, the vaccine rollout will be crucial in mitigation and easing of strains.

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