The Countries That Are Opening Borders Again in Europe

As the recent crisis swept across the world, countries began shutting their borders and entering lockdown. Restrictions are slowly being lifted by governments across Europe, and these countries are opening on the continent once again.

Denmark

Denmark was one of the first European countries to relax its lockdown rules thanks to a comprehensive testing system in place. Anyone showing symptoms is being tested, while schools, hairdressers, and nurseries have opened around the country. Shops, restaurants, and bars are open, although larger buildings like theaters and sports arenas are not yet open.

Germany

All stores in Germany have been permitted to open, but facemasks are mandatory. Schools will gradually begin opening, while the soccer seasons have resumed across the country. Germany will open its borders to its neighbors, France, Switzerland, and Austria from June 15.

Spain

Spain is easing its way out of the lockdown situation with public transport up and running once more. Facemasks are mandatory, while citizens must adhere to social distancing rules. Small businesses have been allowed to reopen, while restaurants and theaters are allowed to run at 30 percent capacity.

Sweden

Although many other countries around Europe were shutting things down in the early stage of the breakout, Sweden took a different approach. Larger portions of Swedish society were left open, meaning schools are open for students younger than 16, and restaurants and bars are operating, albeit with social distancing rules. Gatherings of up to 50 people are allowed, and Sweden hasn’t closed its borders to European travelers.

France

France began reporting its lowest infection rates since the breakout in early May, and since then, the country has gradually started to reopen. Masks are mandatory on public transport, but many schools and shops are opening, while restaurants and bars remain closed. France will open its borders to neighboring Switzerland and Germany on June 15 but will remain closed to other travelers.

These countries in Europe are opening their doors once again!

3 Luxury Holiday Getaways with Private Chefs

While some love hosting a holiday feast for family and friends, the rest prefer to soak in some hard-earned leisure, without any worry or hassle. For the latter, there are specific remote vacation rentals available on the site of ‘Edge Retreats,’ which provide bespoke luxury services. The USP here is, those plush properties come with private chefs. So, you and your guests will enjoy gourmet meals throughout your stay! Here are a few cherry-picked choices for you to indulge.

Lake Kora, Adirondack Mountains, New York

Lake Kora is a sprawling 19-bedroom lodge at the foothill of Adirondack Mountains in New York. Set beside a serene 500-acre private lake, this grand camp can accommodate up to 38 guests. Once belonged to the well-known Vanderbilt family, the property now comes fully staffed. Along with the fully equipped kitchen, where you have to enter only if you want, there are several other features like a squash court, hockey rink, and a bowling alley. Get ready for a full-steamed holiday ahead to enjoy with a long list full of guests.

Sheldon Chalet, Denali’s Ruth Glacier, Alaska

Sheldon Chalet is the ultimate destination if you want to venture out into the whitewashed wilderness, for a truly exclusive holiday experience. Set on the Ruth Glacier in the Denali National Park of Alaska, this cozy 5-bedroom luxury villa has everything stored for you worthy of a bespoke service. Including private chefs, the remote property also provides professional guides for all your outdoor adventures, with extreme-weather-proof gears. If you get lucky to see the northern lights, that’s the utmost ethereal experience you will likely ever have.

Hawksbill Estate, Turks and Caicos

Hawksbill Estate is a holiday-perfect beach retreat, set just beside the world-famous gorgeous Grace Bay of Turks and Caicos. This 8-bedroom luxury mansion is fully staffed along with a private chef. The velvety white sands run upright to the property, while the two pools almost match the overlooking turquoise bay water. There are also a hot tub, a tennis court, and a movie theatre to fill your leisure. The property truly delivers a unique laidback beach escape.