Barcelona moves into Phase 1: what this means

Thanks to the lower numbers infections and deaths in recent weeks, the Barcelona metropolitan area can finally move into Phase 1 of de-escalation. The regions that were already in Phase 1 for the last two weeks move to Phase 2. Those that moved into Phase 1 a week ago, will stay there for at least another week. This means that 46 percent of the Catalan population is currently in Phase 1. 

Those territories that move into Phase 2 can be less mindful of timetables, as they will apply only to people over 70 years old. They can begin to go to theatres and cinemas, as well as interiors of bars and restaurants, and even take a dip in the sea.

What can we do in Phase 1 in Barcelona?

With Phase 1 comes a moderate relaxation of restrictions, the reopening of spaces such as theatres and cinemas, and permission for family gatherings. The only measure that was initially restricted to Phase 1 but was eventually allowed in Phase 0.5 is that shops smaller than 400 m2 could open to clients without an appointment. So what will life in Barcelona be like starting Monday?

Bars and restaurants

- Outdoor seating can open to the public
- Terraces can open to 50 percent of their capacity, with a maximum of 10 people per table or group of tables
- There must be a distance of at least 2 metres between tables

Shops

- Only those of less than 400 m2 can open
- Appointments are no longer necessary
- Shops and businesses can open to only 30 percent of their capacity
- There must be a preferential timetable for customers ages 65 and older
- Owners/workers must disinfect their shops and businesses at least twice a day
- Shopping centres are not allowed to open

Cultural venues

- Enclosed/indoor spaces may open to a maximum of 30 audience members
- Open/outdoor spaces may open to a maximum of 200 audience members

Libraries and museums

- Libraries and museums may open to a maximum of 30 percent of their capacity

Gyms and sports centres

- Only open-air spaces for non-contact sports may open
- Other activities can be done only by appointment, and only activities with no physical contact with others
- Changing rooms and showers are off limits

Hotels and tourist accommodations

- These businesses can open, but common areas must remain closed

Street markets

- These markets can open to 30 percent of their capacity
- A distance of 2 metres must be maintained between stalls and clients
- Markets can open with a maximum of 25 percent of the usual amount of stalls

Private vehicles

- Two people per row of seats can ride in the vehicle, providing they live together
- Masks must be worn unless everyone in the vehicle lives in the same home
- A maximum of nine people are allowed per vehicle if they all live together

Funerals and wakes

- Open-air ceremonies may have a maximum of 15 people in attendance
- A maximum of 10 people can attend any indoor ceremonies

Places of worship

- Places of worship can open to a third of their capacity

Get-togethers with family and friends

- Get-togethers can be either inside or outside
- Up to 10 people can meet, keeping a distance of 2 metres between each person who does not live in the same home

Moving between regions

- You can move around only within the same 'Health Region' where you live
- You cannot move between provinces for any reason
- If you've got a second home, you can go to it only if it's in the same Health Region as your principal home