First Covid-proof vacation experiment to Greek resort in April

The Dutch government gave the travel industry the go ahead to organize an experiment with a coronavirus-proof vacation abroad. The first experiment will be an eight-day trip to a resort on the Greek island of Rhodes for 189 people, RTL Nieuws reports.

The participants will fly to a resort on the Greek island for an all-inclusive package trip of eight days. There will be no other guests at the resort, only staff. Travelers must be tested before and after the trip, cannot leave the resort, and must adhere to the coronavirus measures that apply on the island when there. They'll also have to quarantine for ten days when back in the Netherlands.

Those interested can sign up to participate in this experiment from March 24. The departure date is April 12. Participants will have to pay for the trip themselves, tough the travel organizations will cover the costs of the coronavirus tests. If the coronavirus situation in the Netherlands or in Rhodes deteriorates to the point that it could lead to major risks, the trip will be canceled.

The travel industry is happy that it can organize this experiment and is confident that it will go well. "The Dutch are eager to go on holiday abroad again and travel organizations in turn also to provide these trips," Frank van Oostdam of trade association ANVR said to the broadcaster. "But it must be safe and corona-proof. I have full confidence that this initiative will demonstrate that you can enjoy a carefree and safe holiday through your travel company."

The sector is also working on a second experimental holiday, which will give participants a little more freedom of movement.