Romanians will be able to party at restaurants and hotels during the holidays under new rules published by the government.
But it won’t be free access for all despite a slump in cases. Only people who have been vaccinated against Covid-19, have had a negative PCR test or have had the virus in the last six months will be allowed into restaurants over the Christmas and New Year period.
The update is good news for the hospitality industry, however, which has been hard-hit by the pandemic.
News Year’s Eve is traditionally one of the most profitable nights of the years, with parties and celebratory meals going on until the dawn.
Romania extended its state of alert for another 30 days starting December 9, even as cases fell to less than 1,000 a day from December 10.
There were questions how the restrictions would affect the holiday period and celebrations at restaurants and hotels.
Under the new rules, the nighttime curfew for unvaccinated people has been scrapped. Some 40% of the adult population has been fully vaccinated, the second-lowest rate in the European Union.
People who have had Covid-19 or gave had an antigen or PCR test will be allowed into hotels, shopping malls and restaurants. Previously, only vaccinated people were allowed access.
Masks will no longer be mandatory in outdoor public spaces, except where there are crowds.
Shops and restaurants can stay open to 10 p:m, an hour later than before.
Private parties, weddings and christenings are still banned under the state of alert.
Despite the lull in cases, authorities have warned that Romania is bracing for a fifth wave of the virus that will last two months.
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