New rules for masks
Dolan Property
Your trusted Marbella real estate agent and property specialist on the Golden Mile.
Royal decree puts an end to mask wearing
4th May 2022
By Michael Dolan
New rules for masks
April 20th saw the long-awaited end to the mandatory wearing of face masks indoors. The change, which was effective throughout mainland Spain and the islands, means that in shops, bars, restaurants, hotels, museums, cinemas, and schools, face coverings will no longer be compulsory.
It will now be down to the individual whether they choose to wear one; and the premise’s proprietor, or institution to decide whether they are required for entry. The exemptions to this being public transport, health care facilities (hospitals, clinics), chemists and care homes - where for the time being they will continue to be necessary.
Changes to travel requirements
Last month also brought changes to travel restrictions and documentation. On April 6th the Spanish government lifted the requirement to fill out the Spain Travel Health form (SPTH) for those travellers who have an EU vaccination certificate (or the equivalent) to show that you are either fully vaccinated or have recovered from Covid.
Children under 12 years old do not need to show proof of vaccination or undergo any tests. Those aged 12 to 17, and not vaccinated, need a negative PCR test result. All other visitors will need to fill out the form and present the QR code at the border on entry to Spain.
(To be considered fully vaccinated by the Spanish government, you must have completed the full course of a WHO or EMA approved vaccine and have received your second jab at least 14 days prior to your trip. In line with other EU countries, Spain has set an expiration date of 270 days on vaccine passports. This means booster jabs will be required if your second jab was more than nine months ago.)
These latest developments follow on from the ruling in February which ended Spain’s strict outdoor mask wearing rule, and March’s decision to stop tracking covid cases in the under 60s. After two years of measures and mandates put in place to protect the population from the virus, these steps have come as a welcome relief for many.
Easter Holidays in Marbella
All these changes came just in time for the Easter vacation. It was reflected in the huge number of visitors who arrived here on the Costa del Sol. Reservations were up throughout the Malaga province with some places being fully booked on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, overall average hotel occupancy was at 80% over the period.
Thousands of tourists from all over Europe and other parts of Spain flocked to Andalucia to enjoy Semana Santa, which is the Spanish name for Easter or “Holy Week”. This is one of Spain’s most celebrated holidays, with religious processions and parades taking place throughout the week.
Four national days of holidays, and no work, meant that visitors and locals alike were able to enjoy everything that is great about Marbella in Springtime. Beautiful weather ensured that the beaches and paseos were full of families and friends enjoying relaxing days and fun filled nights.
This is all great news for the leisure and travel industry. Hotels, restaurants, and bars are looking forward to a bumper summer after Easter exceeded all expectations, with figures being nearly back to pre-pandemic levels.
Property Sales in Marbella
Whether you are a holiday maker, a permanent resident, or you own a second home - with its sunny beaches, rich cultural calendar and mouth-watering food, there are plenty of reasons why the Costa del Sol, and especially Marbella is the long-running favourite of the British and other northern Europeans.
Marbella’s mix of the prestigious, the picturesque, and the more tranquil urbanisations and developments are what attracts such a variety of different people. If what you are looking for is a relaxed way of life with plenty of sunshine, close to a bustling metropolis with lots to do, the Costa del Sol is, without a doubt, the place to buy a property in Spain.
2022 is gearing up to be an exceptional year for property sales. We are seeing a huge demand for all categories of real estate - apartments, townhouses, detached villas - and we are actively looking for all types of properties for our buyers. Whether it is a holiday getaway destination or a family home you are after - Marbella is the place to be. It is a vendor’s market and if you are looking to sell, now is the time.
We understand that choosing a new home is a big step, and for those of you buying or selling a property in a foreign country, it can be very stressful. Our team of real estate experts provide a full ‘hands on’ service. We work in partnership with you (our client), your lawyer and any other professional advisers or consultants. Dolan Property is here to help you through the whole process, every step of the way.
We are based in the heart of Marbella’s Golden Mile and specialise in high quality, desirable properties in prime residential locations; Nagüeles, Sierra Blanca, Cascada de Camoján, East and West Marbella, Istan Road, Nueva Andalucia, and the new Golden Mile in Estepona.
Dolan Property specialists are committed to the highest levels of business and ethical standards, and we are proud members of the Leading Property Agents of Spain (LPA).
