With Greece finally coming out of 10 weeks of strict lockdown that has proved so effective against the spread of Covid-19, the first steps were taken this week for the return of some semblance of normality or a “new normal.”

The Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, announced on Wednesday the easing of some of the restrictions that have been place since March on Wednesday. The announcement paves the way for retail businesses to operate under strict conditions from 4 May.

However, the cafes, restaurants and bars will have to wait until next month before they can start serving customers again.

Strict social distancing and hygiene requirements will be in place that will restrict the number of customers to be served when businesses reopen next week, on Monday, 4 May. People will be expected to keep a two-metre safety zone between each other.

Keeptalkingreece.com said the number of customers allowed into a business premises will depend on its size. Workers and customers will be expected to wear a mask.

This means that a pre-defined number of customers will be allowed into a facility and this will depend on the size of the premises.

Customers are advised to phone and register with a business. The business owner will compile a list at the start of each day which will be shown to the authorities if required to do so.

Cafes, bars and restaurants will open again in June, but there will only be seating outside with the tables being 1.5m away from the next table and each table is to have just four clients.

Employees will be expected to wear masks and gloves and disinfectants are to be provided for every table.

The rules for the use of masks vary according to the situation, with their use being mandatory in some cases and strongly recommended in others. A fine of €150 will be imposed if they are not worn as required.

The government has also imposed a ban on movement in public spaces from midnight to 6am.

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Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Greece’s Minister of Education, Niki Kerameos presented a plan that will allow for the reopening on Lyceums and high schools on May 11 and 18 respectively.

Under his plan university entrance exams will be begin on 15 June.

Elementary schools and pre-schools are likely to stay closed for the remainder of the school year.

Strict hygiene rules will apply and a social distance of 1.5m per person means that there will be a maximum of 15 students per classroom.