 Credit: iStock |
01
Want to travel mask-free? These countries have waived mandatory mask rule
Countries across the world are gradually easing COVID related restrictions in a move to transition to pre-pandemic life. While some countries no longer have mask restrictions in place, most are still abiding by all the required restrictions to ensure people’s safety. It still remains to be seen how these updated mandates will play out; meanwhile, let’s take a look at those countries where you can now travel mask-free.
 Credit: iStock |
02
The United States
As per the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, most Americans are now safe to go without face masks. They are no longer required to wear a face mark or obligated to be six feet away from others, when outdoors or indoors.
If reports are to go by, the agency’s revised mask protocol doesn’t lean heavily on the number of COVID-19 cases as a key measure, instead they are analysing and giving more weight to local hospital capacity and hospitalizations.
 Credit: iStock |
03
UAE
The National Authority for Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management (NCEMA) recently announced that wearing of face masks in open spaces has now been made optional in the UAE. Also, social distancing protocols in tourism and economic sites have been removed. However, as of now, people will be required to wear face masks in closed spaces.
 Credit: iStock |
04
Denmark
As per the reports, Denmark became the first European Union country to lift all its domestic COVID-19 restrictions, including the wearing of face masks. Although the country is registering relatively high cases of the virus, the authorities are of the view that the virus no longer qualifies as a ‘critical threat’. Also, as per the experts, the removal of COVID related restrictions is due to the country’s high vaccination rate.
 Credit: iStock |
05
France
The French Health Ministry recently announced, “The wearing of masks indoors will be maintained in transport and enclosed places not subject to the vaccination pass. In other enclosed places subject to the vaccination pass, wearing a mask will no longer be mandatory.” The French Government also stated that face masks will no longer be mandatory in French public places, such as restaurants, where the vaccine pass is needed.
 Credit: iStock |
06
Spain
Spain has recently lifted the requirement of wearing face masks outdoors as the country continues to register a drop in COVID-19 infections. One would, however, still need to wear masks in enclosed spaces and on public transport. It is also advised that one should carry a mask in case social distancing is not maintained in some settings.
 Credit: iStock |
07
Italy
It’s no longer mandatory to wear a face mask in outdoor public spaces in Italy. However, there are certain situations that might require one to wear them in outdoor settings. Also, do note that wearing masks will still be required in all indoor public places and busy areas, although many seem to prefer wearing face masks out of habit or fear of infection.
 Credit: iStock |
08
England
Here, face coverings are no longer required by law. As per the UK Government, one must continue to wear a face covering in enclosed and crowded spaces, where you can come into contact with other people you normally don’t meet.
