When facing the threat of short-time work or job loss, workers can’t go on vacation with a clear mind. This is even more true during the COVID-19 pandemic. But we could also say: Now more than ever! Because relaxation is especially important during the pandemic. In addition, many metalworkers have saved up for their trips and cut back on other leisure activities to do so. They’re wondering whether they can go on their planned or already booked trips.
Vacations in Europe: Germany, Austria—is there more?
Anyone planning to travel within Germany has reason to be pleased: The federal government and the states have agreed that the states may, at their own discretion, allow a gradual reopening of hotels and restaurants; tourist accommodations have been permitted again since the end of May. A prerequisite for reopening is strict adherence to hygiene regulations and social distancing rules. In addition, hotels and restaurants must submit a plan to protect their employees. On May 13, the Federal Ministry of the Interior announced that it would also gradually ease the temporary internal border controls and the current entry restrictions. Provided the infection rate allows it, the COVID-19-related internal border controls are set to end on June 15. The guideline currently in effect in Germany—an infection rate of fewer than 50 new cases per 100,000 residents over a seven-day period—serves as a benchmark. Regarding external borders, the federal government is following the European Commission’s recommendations to extend restrictions on entry from third countries until June 15, 2020. Summer vacations abroad would therefore also be possible, provided the infection situation allows it. In Austria, hotels and lodging facilities are permitted to open starting May 29. In South Tyrol, hotels and vacation rentals will open as early as May 25. The rest of Italy will follow on June 3. At the time of publication, it was not known whether and when Spain, for example, would follow suit.
Taking Vacation While on Short-Time Work
Employees can also take vacation while on short-time work. Currently, vacation days from the current calendar year are not taken into account when approving short-time work. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Federal Employment Agency is not requiring employees to use their annual vacation days from the current year to avoid short-time work until December 31, 2020.
Many companies maintain so-called vacation schedules. If employees submit an agreed-upon vacation plan to their supervisors, the supervisors will generally approve it. In some IG Metall collective bargaining agreements, the vacation schedule is even binding on employers. However, once vacation is approved, it cannot be revoked by the employer. This would only be possible if the company were facing imminent collapse—especially if the employee has already started their vacation. Whether it’s company-wide closures or vacation schedules, the works council has a right to co-determination.
Before You Go: What to Pack in the Age of COVID-19
- Cloth face masks: It’s best to bring several with you so you can switch them out.
- Scarf or shawl: Both can be wrapped around your mouth and nose in a pinch if you don’t have a cloth mask on hand.
- Soap: A small bar of soap fits in any purse and is allowed in your carry-on luggage. This way, you can wash your hands thoroughly even when you’re on the go.
- Hand sanitizer: So you’re well-stocked at your vacation destination and don’t have to buy overpriced products.
- Thermometer: In some countries, daily temperature checks are recommended even without quarantine. Additionally, if infection rates rise, local authorities may order quarantine or other measures.
- Health Insurance Card: In the event of an accident or illness within the European Union, you generally only need to present your European Health Insurance Card. Please note: As a general rule, benefits are provided only in accordance with the regulations of the country where the patient is staying. Any copayment is also determined by the regulations of that country and may need to be paid directly on site. If you encounter any problems, the first point of contact should always be your health insurance provider in Germany. Information about your destination country is available from the German Liaison Office for Health Insurance Abroad and the National Contact Point for Cross-Border Healthcare.
Vacation on the Balcony
What’s the point of a vacation? That’s right: relaxation and recovery from work. And those could be reasons for a “balcony vacation.” After all, the hustle and bustle of traveling, the worry of contracting SARS-CoV-2, and the constant need to maintain social distancing—all of that is eliminated. Those vacationing at home set their own daily routine. Breakfast, outings, and physical activities whenever and wherever you want. Plus, those staying home can treat themselves to something special with the money they saved on travel. For those who still want to get out of their own four walls, their local region often has more to offer than you might think. Why not use your vacation time to get to know your own surroundings better?
