We received this update from our partner in Algeria regarding the re-opening of tourism in Algeria. We have a tour scheduled for September for Algeria, so we hope to be able to move forward with it – we will keep you posted!
Dear Maha
In Algeria, the deconfinement started on June 14 in a selective and progressive way which is explained by the surface of the country “Continent” like Algeria which knows two types of Mediterranean and Saharan climate. This is why, the regions of the Sahara, for example, which have not been affected by the epidemic, are already unfinished and their businesses have reopened. For the other regions, the deconfinement is partial; some activities have taken over others not. In any case, the total deconfinement for the whole country is planned for July with air services on the domestic network from July 15. The opening of borders and the return of international air links is announced in late July. Moreover, all the international airlines which serve Algeria before the pandemic have already announced flight programs from the end of July but are awaiting the definitive “green light” from the Algerian government which will have to decide on the question around the 5th. July. An example is Air France, which has announced the operation of 35 weekly flights between France and Algeria.
Concerning health security in tourism, protocols validated by the authorities of the country are already ready for all the terminals of the country, the national company Air Algeria, hotels, restaurants, taxis and transport lines (buses). These protocols will be implemented upon the partial or total resumption of tourist activities.
Regarding our agency, we are in constant contact with our partners: hoteliers and carriers who have informed us of the new rules for the management of public spaces and the measures they have planned to apply in terms of hygiene, social distancing and health security: reception (check in and checkout), luggage port, elevators, rooms and common areas. For catering, we have removed the buffets and all meals will be served at the table including breakfast which can also be taken in the room. Regarding tourist transport and transfers, they will be carried out by Van 9 seats for 2 to 4 pax, Van 15 seats for 5 to 8 places and Van 25 seats for 9 to 12 people. The vehicles will have “alcoholic gel” for cleaning their hands, sufficient paper towels and mineral water throughout the trips and circuits. The vehicles, under the driver’s responsibility, are cleaned (with disinfectant for windows, seats and parquet) at least twice a day and ventilated several times a day to avoid any containment of air.
Concerning visits to museums, archaeological parks and monuments; everyone knows that Algeria receives very few tourists and that its archaeological sites are generally little visited, our customers will therefore visit the various sites in excellent conditions as if they had been “privatized” for them. For museums, each institution has planned specific measures according to their space so that tourists do not meet, follow marked paths and visit places in compliance with the rules of technical distancing. Access ticketing is managed by the guide to avoid contact with customers.
I will keep you informed of the situation in connection with the corona virus pandemic in Algeria which is evolving positively in order to open up without constraint to the world very soon, and reminds you that the health and safety of our customers; of our collaborators: guide, driver, transporters and our partners: hoteliers, restaurants, cooks, museums, parks, craftsmen, etc. are our priority.
Best regards
Algiers, June 18, 2020
Atman S.