Breaking News: When Will the Travel Ban Be Lifted? Restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus are being eased one by one as case numbers improve and the number of new patients declines. After the four-day Ramadan holiday restrictions, attention has turned to when travel bans will be lifted. According to the latest information, important decisions are expected on June 3. Plans include lifting entry and exit bans for the remaining 15 provinces and reopening beaches.
As a precaution against the coronavirus, entry and exit restrictions were initially applied to thirty metropolitan provinces and Zonguldak. As improvements became evident, restrictions were first lifted for seven provinces and later for nine more, bringing the total to 16 provinces where travel bans have been removed. Entry and exit restrictions for the remaining 15 provinces have been extended until June 3. Decisions for densely populated provinces will depend on next week’s case numbers. Based on collected data and recommendations from the Scientific Advisory Board, authorities plan to lift travel restrictions across those 15 provinces. However, if the virus shows signs of resurgence or case numbers rise, province-level bans may continue. In provinces where coronavirus cases are detected, Provincial Public Health Committees may impose restrictions at the provincial, district, or regional level.
When Will Restrictions Be Lifted?
When will the “new normal” begin and when will restrictions be removed? Parks, gardens, beaches, picnic areas, historical sites, and recreational areas that were closed as part of coronavirus measures are planned to be reopened. These areas will be made available for use depending on provincial data and the spread of the virus, provided citizens wear masks and follow social distancing rules. If a risk is identified, provincial administrative and pandemic authorities may temporarily reintroduce bans in these areas.
The post-coronavirus period, often referred to as the “new normal,” will change many daily activities and public practices. New regulations are expected for social spaces where people gather. Antalya’s famous Konyaaltı Beach, one of the areas most affected by the pandemic, will see specific measures. For example, random placement of towels for sunbathing and uncontrolled entry into the sea will no longer be permitted.
On Konyaaltı Beach, designated wooden sections will be surrounded by ropes to create 9-square-meter zones. Beachgoers will use sunbeds arranged as singles, doubles, or triples, with triple and double sunbeds reserved for families. A social distancing rule of 2.5 meters will be enforced between umbrella groups. Another measure across the beach will be controlled entry points with turnstiles located near changing cabin areas. Visitors passing through these checkpoints will undergo basic checks and be encouraged to wear masks and gloves. Informational brochures will be provided detailing the rules and how to use designated areas.
New Rules for Parks
New regulations are also being introduced for parks. In the 9-square-meter zones on beaches, when a group using a sunbed, table, or umbrella leaves the area, the space will be disinfected and left empty for 20 minutes before admitting the next visitor. Beach entrances and exits will be arranged through separate routes, and smoking on beaches will be prohibited. Park usage will change as well: visitors will encounter circular social distancing markings. Within the scope of normalization, parks in Istanbul are being redesigned with social-distance circles to guide visitors and help maintain spacing.