Hotels, B&Bs, self-catering, hostels and guesthouses reopen across the country from today.
June 2 marks a turning point for many in the hospitality sector as holidaymakers can now visit anywhere in the country following the lifting of all limitations on intercounty travel last month.
While overnight stays are given the all-clear, there remains a couple of rules surrounding what else you can do in the hotel - primarily in relation to food and drink.
Can I have a pint in a hotel?
The good news is that yes, you can - as long as you're an overnight guest in the hotel.
Otherwise, you've to wait with everyone else until next Monday for outdoor pints and next month for indoor pints.
What about a nice sit-down meal?
Residents will also be allowed to prebook tables for indoor dining.
Current guidelines state that if tables are only 1m apart, they must be pre-booked and a time limit of 105 minutes will apply. Fifteen minutes will be allowed for cleaning between bookings.
However, if tables are expanded to 2m apart, a time limit may not apply, and they won’t have to be pre-booked.
Are there any other rules I need to follow?
The guidelines also refer to the need for ventilation within the premises. This includes opening a window or mechanical ventilation systems.
The Failte Ireland Guidelines state: “While large droplets containing the virus will settle on to the surrounding surfaces within seconds, smaller particles containing the virus can stay suspended for longer periods of time.
“Dilution of indoor air by opening windows and doors or using mechanical ventilation systems can lower the airborne concentration and remove these smaller particles from the air.”
What about masks?
Masks must be worn within the hotel at all times, except when you are in the hotel room or having a meal.
