covid Christmas

 

For months now, coronavirus restrictions have dictated where millions of Europeans can travel to and who they can see when they get there.

So with Christmas fast approaching, governments are having to make tough decisions on whether to ease restrictions in time for the holiday period.

Here's a breakdown of what's been announced so far.

Italy: No Christmas markets and a nationwide curfew

Italy is currently seeing the highest number of deaths since the end of March and Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has told Italians to expect a "more sober Christmas, without Christmas Eve gatherings, hugs and kisses".

Many Italian regions are under partial lockdown and travel between them is restricted. These measures will remain in place until 3 December, but reports suggest an emergency decree may see the rules relaxed after this date.

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The exact details of the decree are still being discussed by ministers. It is thought there will not be an official limit on social gatherings, but the government has recommended people "plan to be as few as possible".