Tourism Breaking News
Tourism officials in the Canton (state) of Graubunden in Switzerland are gearing up for a busy summer as the Swiss government prepares to open its borders on 26 June to visitors from the GCC countries who have been fully vaccinated. The new ruling, which was ratified on Wednesday 23 June, now allows GCC residents who have been vaccinated with a European Medical Agency (EMA) and WHO approved vaccination, such as Pfizer or Sinopharm (up-to 12 months after vaccination), entry into Switzerland without any pre-travel PCR test or quarantine on arrival.
“Switzerland and the Graubunden region in particular have always been favourite holiday destinations for tourists from the GCC and with the re-opening of the borders, we look forward to welcoming them again this summer.
“This year in particular, the fresh air, outstanding natural beauty, mild climate and healthy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and sailing make it the perfect destination for family pursuits,” said Tamara Loeffel, Head of Business Development, Visit Graubunden.
“With this latest announcement by the Swiss government, added to the existing pent-up demand, we are expecting exceptionally heavy demand from the GCC countries. Graubunden has to be nature’s remedy for a post-Covid holiday,” she added.
“Besides the breath-taking scenery, there’s so much to keep the whole family entertained. Between Lenzerheide and Chur, there’s a toboggan run which is over three kilometres long, Switzerland’s longest and for children who love stories, the small town of Maienfeld is where the classic children’s novel Heidi was set.
“Moreover, many people will have heard about the glamourous resorts such as St. Moritz and Davos, but there are many other destinations worth exploring such as Vals, home to thermal baths that are built from 300 million-year-old stone and the countryside around Flims and Laax which is famous for its crystal-clear lakes,” added Loeffel.
