Foreign tourists and workers vaccination, Neuquén orders for the winter

Two weeks before the start of winter, doubts remain about what will happen to the tourist season. However, the Minister of Neuquén, Marisa Focarazzo has been optimistic about two demands that will be presented to her peer of the Nation, Matías Lammens. One is that I know allocate vaccines to workers sector and another is that allow entry of foreign tourists.

Since the start of the quarantine in 2020, tourism has been one of the most affected sectors. The entry of foreign tourists was suspended and was only allowed for a short period. However, it was by plane from Buenos Aires, reducing the ability for travelers to take multiple planes to reach domestic destinations and discouraging visits from Chile, which are more accessible by land. At that time, an opening of the border posts was demanded, which not only did not prosper, but was truncated by the new coronavirus wave, What he closed the country again.

the key change between then and now is the vaccination advance. In Spain, tourists who have been vaccinated with one of those authorized by the European Union or the World Health Organization are allowed to enter.

Focarazzo explained to various media that the proposal is that the arrival of vaccinated visitors be allowed, in bubble mode. assured that there are interested parties from Brazil, Mexico and Colombia. He specified that promotions and broadcasts are carried out for “loyal” destinations such as Buenos Aires, Cordoba and Mendoza, but that they would be extended as soon as the date of authorization for foreign tourism is confirmed.

The Minister also explained that the Ente Patagonia meeting raised the need to improve air connectivity, which particularly affects Tierra del Fuego, and that of early vaccination for workers of the sector which are particularly exposed, as carriers, guides and those who frequent ski resorts. Focarazzo clarified that although some have been reached by stages of the vaccination campaign already underway, not all staff have been completed.

Precisely, the minister Lammens has two key meetings with the sector this afternoon. The first with the authorities of the Argentine Chamber of Ski Centers and the second with the Federal Council of Tourism, news is therefore awaited for the sector that better clarify the outlook for the winter season.

The manager of Neuquén underlined that everything is given to be able to work in accordance with the protocols and that, even, the cross-ventilation directive has been incorporated. In addition, he told AM Cumbre that he thinks that for November, when the calendar of popular festivals, “we are going to be vaccinated” and it will be possible “take a new start”.