Tourist accommodation: what health measures are in place for holidays this summer?

A holiday that's both relaxing and safe. This is the objective of tourism professionals in France this summer, in particular in the hospitality and catering sector, which has implemented specific measures adapted for the safety of all visitors. Read our guide to staying safe in hotels, campsites, guesthouses and other tourist accommodation.

Hotels, guesthouses, campsites and other group accommodation are now open without restriction across the country. All accommodation is adhering to strict health protocol as approved by the government.

The government has published a poster stating 'Our establishment is committed' which all professionals can display at the entrance to their establishment, subject to having implemented the measures and recommendations to ensure customer safety.

The poster is available to download here (External link) .

In hotels

In the hotel industry, the health protocol approved by the government has been enforced in all establishments since June 2.
Accorhotels has launched its own certification label in partnership with Bureau Veritas, while other hotel chains have developed other labels to attest to the hygiene measures implemented. In particular, hotels have taken extra precautions in terms of cleaning and disinfection (receptions, bedrooms, relaxation areas, etc) by using viricidal products and increasing the frequency of cleans.

Belambra, Club Med, Pierre & Vacances-Center Parcs, Odalys… all tourist residence chains have also put extra health measures in place to ensure traveller safety.
In common living spaces, signage enforces social distancing (1.5 to 2 metres) and cleaning and disinfection plans are deployed, including in swimming pools, saunas, hammams and other leisure facilities. Certain tourist residences have also reinforced the cleaning of their ventilation systems and accommodation between guest changeovers. Only outdoor activities that allow social distancing are running, and paperless check-in and check-out are preferred. Staff at each company are fully trained in the new measures and equipped with masks, visors and plexiglass to avoid excess contact.

At campsites

The National Federation of Outdoor Hotels (FNHPA) has worked hard to prepare a complete health charter before the start of the high season, adapted to the specifics of campsites. In common areas, flow limitation, plexiglass and disinfection are essential, with particular attention paid to washing and leisure facilities (including swimming pools and sports facilities). Delivery and takeaway services are encouraged from restaurants and supermarkets. It should be noted that Camping.com has also created its own charter.

Campsite and leisure park sector: official health protocol (External link)

In Gîtes de France

Lodgings and guest houses labelled 'Gîtes de France' have implemented a specific health charter for both hosts and guests. Hosts are obliged to disinfect their accommodation between rental periods, and provide cleaning products for use by guests during their stay. Hosts must also remain available to guests as a point of contact in case of illness. Special coronavirus instructions are also provided in the accommodation.

In rentals

The National Union for the Promotion of Vacation Rentals (UNPLV) has also produced its own charter to safeguard travellers' health this summer. Practical advice is given to homeowners such as 'washing from top to bottom', 'leaving shoes outside the home' and 'washing sheets and household linen at 60°'. A practical guide is available to owners to explain cleaning and disinfecting procedures for before guests arrive, to ensure their peace of mind.

Good practice guide for tourist accommodation and holiday rentals (External link)

After the first phase of lockdown easing from May 11 to June 1, the French government gave the green light to the reopening of most cultural spaces and relaunch of leisure activities on June 2.

As a reminder, the easing of the lockdown in France following the coronavirus pandemic has been carried out in three phases:

  • Phase 1: from May 11 to June 1, 2020
  • Phase 2: from June 2 to June 21, 2020
  • Phase 3: from June 22 to mid-July 2020

On French territory, only Mayotte and Guyana are subject to additional restrictions until further notice.