Holidays abroad: the Canary Islands cover any corona costs

Off to the Canary Islands? According to the Netherlands the trip is responsible. Code yellow applies; risks remain. The Canary Islands cover possible hospital costs, a longer stay and repatriation.

Coronavirus: the government’s travel advice

The coronavirus COVID-19 is having a major impact. Travel restrictions have been imposed worldwide. “Consider holidaying in the Netherlands”, the government says.

Dutch campsites and holiday parks are filling up. Prices are rising. Even for that cabin in the middle of nowhere. A luxurious four- or five-star hotel in the Canary Islands can easily be cheaper.

Responsible

The government does leave room for travel abroad. “Only go to a country with a yellow travel advisory. Travel to these countries is responsible, but do take care: there are health risks.”

The Canary Islands and corona

The Canary Islands are now yellow. Infections have been low for quite some time.

The island group warmly welcomes tourists. Which is striking, given earlier statements in the Spanish media. At first foreign tourists were not to be welcome until October, November and December. The last quarter, in other words. Tourism turns out to be too important to stick to that intention.

What if you get corona abroad?

This year Dutch people are holidaying at home in large numbers. The government's message is having an effect. And there are specific questions that limit plans to travel abroad:

• What about a forced longer stay?
• When does repatriation apply?
• And what has been arranged about hospital costs?

The Canary Islands hope to save tourism with a drastic step. The regional government covers the costs for every tourist who encounters corona while there.

The scheme has applied since this week. Already have health complaints before the holiday? Then you fall outside it. Agreements for the scheme have been made with the insurer AXA.

A timeline of tourism and corona in the Canary Islands

• 21 April 2020: tourists not welcome until the last quarter (El Mundo, Joop en De Telegraaf)
• 5 August 2020: tourists welcome with immediate effect, corona costs covered (NU.nl, Reuters)

The pull

The deal increases the pull of the Canary Islands. Guarantees like these can tip the balance when choosing a destination.

Fuerteventura

Sun lovers love the Canary Islands. Understandably: plenty of hours of sunshine. The volcanic landscapes make it feel as though you are genuinely outside Europe. Which island is best for you? That depends on what you want from your holiday.

For a little more calm and space, Fuerteventura is well worth it. This rugged island lends itself to an adventurous road trip with fine viewpoints. Drive along narrow mountain roads through the interior. That way you see the vast desert plains, among other things, from the Morro Velosa viewpoint. Visit Betancuria as well.

Along the coastline you find clear water and glorious beaches. With all-inclusives and authentic spots in turn, from Costa Calma in the east to Ajuy on the west coast. Here and there you still come across a tourist resort. For the party crowd: going out is best done in Corralejo, for instance.