As we navigate through the coronavirus pandemic, we thought it would be useful to gather in one article all necessary information about the outbreak, how it affects your travel plans to Greece and the extraordinary measures Creta Maris has taken to ensure the safety of our guests and team members.

What is the COVID-19?

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus.

Most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems are more likely to develop serious illness.

The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is be well informed about the COVID-19 virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads. At this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19. However, there are many ongoing clinical trials evaluating potential treatments.

How to protect yourself and others from getting the new coronavirus

There are several measures you can adopt to protect yourself against the new coronavirus.

• The best way is by frequently cleaning your hands. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or a disinfectant, especially after coughing or sneezing, before handling and consuming food.
• Avoid contact with patients who appear ill with respiratory symptoms.
• Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing or if you are taking care of a person with suspected 2019-nCoV infection. Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. See more about how and when to use masks.

Watch this short video and find out what the recommendations from WHO experts are:

Measures in Greece

Due to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, the Greek government has taken further measures to contain its spread.
For the time being Greece has suspended all transport links with non-EU countries as well as Spain, Italy and Great Britain and Turkey till further notice. Seasonal hotels and resorts, as well as year- round Hotels in Greece will remain temporarily closed from March 22nd 2020 until April 30th 2020.

Greece imposes a 14-day quarantine to any new arrival from now on, until further notice. The government also decided to implement a ban on all cruise ships and sailboats docking at its ports. Until April 21, departure and docking of private and professional yachts is prohibited at all ports of the country. Furthermore, mass gatherings have been banned. Museums, Archaeological sites, Cinemas and shopping centres are on lock down until further notice. Cafes, restaurants, tavernas, bars, have shut down, besides the ones who offer delivery or take out till further notice.
Until April 6, additional measures include a curfew for non-essential movements, with exceptions for those who still go to work, for visiting a super-market or a pharmacy shop, physical exercise in outdoor spaces etc.

Advice for travelers

Since there is no vaccine for this novel corona virus, please avoid nonessential travel. Stay safe, at home, until it’s safe to travel again. Of course, it’s essential that you postpone your trip if you have fever and/or respiratory symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath.
While in Greece, if you notice any symptoms related to COVID-19, please call the National Public Health Organization at 1135.

Creta Maris measures for COVID-19 prevention

The safety and security of our guests and team members is at the center of Creta Maris’ attention. Therefore, in response to this unprecedented situation we have taken additional measures following the guidelines and recommendations of local and global public health authorities, to make our cleaning and hygiene protocols even more meticulous.

Starting with the disinfection of all indoor communal areas, and an extensive training of our personnel by a local medical center and other external partners, additional measures also include: provision of disinfectants and hand sanitizers, masks and gloves (available to our guests, when requested), compulsory use of gloves by our housekeepers etc.

We also prepared a plan of action in the event of a confirmed coronavirus case at our hotel, so as to act swiftly and take proper care of the infected guests. In such a case, after departure, a rigorous protocol of disinfection and thorough cleaning of the room will be implemented.

We urge you to #StaySafe but also to #StayPositive and #KeepDreaming. Soon, these hard times will be over.

The Creta Maris team stands by your side!