Spain holidays: Huge U-turn over mandatory mask law after holidaymakers outraged

Spain: Expert discusses country re-opening to tourists

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Spain authorities explained this includes beaches and other tourist destinations. What’s more, the rule applies even if there is an interpersonal distance of more than 1.5 metres. Previously, those in Spain were only required to wear a mask outside when there was less than 1.5 metres distance between them.

The new rule, published yesterday by Official State Gazette, states distance is no longer a factor of whether people need to wear a mask or not.

The law will apply to all people over the age of six when they appear out in public.

It is expected to remain in place until the coronavirus crisis is over.

However, today it was revealed this measure would be relaxed on the Balearic Islands.

It was explained that masks won’t be mandatory on the beaches of Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and the other Balearic Islands as long as there is distance between people, if you are with your social bubble or if you are sunbathing, reported the Europa Press.

Councillor of Health, Patricia Gómez, explained the Balearics will continue to maintain this measure, agreed in November in the Government Council.

However, face masks must be worn if you are on the beach and meeting up with another social bubble and a maximum of six people.

Gómez specified the details after participating in the Interterritorial Health Council.

At the meeting, the Minister of Health, Carolina Darias, explained the “New Normality Law,” published on Tuesday in the Official State Gazette, but drafted in June of last year as a Decree Law, has been decontextualised.

Therefore she has proposed working in a technical-legal committee with the participation of the different regions to modify the measure, “provided there is consensus.”

With no end date in sight for Spanish face mask rules, Britons may have to observe the new mask law when travel to Spain is permitted again.

Being made to wear a mask while visiting beaches or swimming pools may be less than desirable for many tourists.

Wearing masks in public was introduced in Spain last year to help combat the coronavirus pandemic.

The previous rule only applied to people in public spaces indoors and in cramped spaces outdoors, however, this has now changed.

As with previous laws, some people will be exempt from wearing masks in public spaces.

Those who have an illness or respiratory difficulty do not need to wear face coverings in public

The statement stated: “It will not be required either in the case of individual outdoor sport.

“Or in cases when, due to the very nature of the activities, the use of the mask is incompatible, in accordance with the indications of the health authorities.”

Spain’s ban on UK arrivals was lifted yesterday but travellers still must prove they are visiting for essential reasons.

However, under UK rules, Britons are not able to travel until May 17 at the earliest.

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