Tourism to France is rebounding this year compared to last year

Published on : Monday, August 2, 2021

Tourism to France is rebounding this year compared to last year, when the pandemic closed borders, although U.S. and Asian visitors remain restricted, said Tourism Minister Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne.

France expects 50 million foreign tourists this summer, going up from 35 million last year.

A so-called health pass, proof of vaccination or a recent negative Covid-19 test would be needed to enter museums and theme parks, and that will be extended to bars, restaurants and long-distance trains starting Aug. 9.
Lemoyne said, “A period of teaching will be necessary for the French to get used to the health pass. But it is essential to keep all these establishments open.”

He said that the best way to ensure a strong tourist season is vaccination for everyone.

European tourists are back in force, except for British visitors because the U.K. government needs 14-day isolation upon return from France, said the minister.

While few Americans are traveling again, Asian customers largely won’t be back until next year, said the minister.
Those opposing the health pass, saying that it infringes on their freedom, took to the streets in Paris and other cities on Saturday to complain against the measure. More than 204,000 people assembled, including more than 14,000 in the capital.

Almost 65% of French adults are fully vaccinated, according to government figures.