So, an announcement by the Greek Government has just said that international tourist will be let back in from July 1st.
More of the restrictions are being lifted on the 1st June with Taverners being allowed to open but with new rules
Places here are still mainly shut with the exception of the Corner souvlaki bar (thank god I love his food) the other souvlaki bar run by Adonis grocery stores and Pharmacy’s.
Speaking to a few Taverner owners they are planning to open early to mid-June, there are a few day tourist about but these are Greeks from Rethymno and surrounding villages.
I here there might be some sort of seating restrictions in Taverners so there will be fewer tables and you will have to be taken to a table based on the restrictions rather than find your own seat.
The big hotels here being, Hapimag, Alianthos Gardens and Beach are not opening this season because of the staff, I have not heard anything about the new development at Paligremnos so am not sure if they ill open or not.
A big problem they have is staff, they are not sure how many people will come and are not expecting to get even slightly busy until August so do they employ any staff ? , they can not afford there wages if they are not busy and once they start employing them they have to make winter payments as well, so I think most are not planning too and will just rely on family members, also some of the staff are not from Greece so can not get here anyway.
The mood here is general caution bordering on concern, they need to make a living but are concerned that the influx of international travellers will bring the virus to our shores. So, don’t be surprised if you don’t get the normal hugs and kisses from your locals that you would normally get, its not that they don’t want you here its just they are a bit scared.
The last week has been very hot with virtually no wind making the sea more like a giant lake, its been great for the locals to be able to enjoy the sea the beaches and go fishing and local boat tours as normally they would be busy working so everything has the up-side.
Other news is the new super market net to Blu is nearly finished and it is very big and apart from a few smaller constructions here and there that’s it, so you will find Plakias pretty much as you left it last time you were here.
