Vienna reopening: in conversation with Norbert Kettner
21.07.2023 - 08:45
/ roughguides.com
/ Norbert Kettner
The grand old capital of Vienna was one of the first European cities to reopen in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic – Viennese hotels unlocked their doors just days ago on 29 May, while bars and restaurants have been back in business since mid-May. As lockdown lifts and restrictions are gradually eased, Rough Guides explores what this means for the travel industry, and what trips to the city might look like in the coming months. To gain more insight, we spoke to the Managing Director of the Vienna Tourist Board, Norbert Kettner, to dig a little deeper.
Q: Can you summarize the experience of Covid-19 in Vienna? What measures were taken and how did the population cope?
A: In Austria strict measures were taken at a comparably early stage – including the closure of shops, restaurants and schools. Fortunately, the restrictions showed positive impacts and restaurants and bars were reopened in mid-May. On Friday 29 May, hotels and leisure centres are allowed to reopen as well, which is a fantastic strive forwards.
Q: Vienna is one of the first European cities to reopen its hotels, restaurants and shops. Why do you think you are one of the first, and what does it feel like to be one of the first cities to open up?
A: Naturally it is a good feeling as it is a step in the right direction; however, I must say that, an open and welcoming city is nothing without visitors to enjoy it. We hope that other cities that are yet to reopen look to Vienna as a means of hope and guidance during these challenging times.
Johann Strauss Monument at Stadpark in Vienna © Trakadas Ilias/Shutterstock
Q: What will reopening mean to the city and its inhabitants?
A: Reopening Vienna, or any city for that matter, is such a positive strive forward. There has been a great atmosphere in Vienna now that residents can go to a restaurant again or visit the city’s fantastic art galleries. However, given that Vienna is a very successful tourism destination, the rather quiet streets still look out of place. In 2019, 83% of overnight stays in Vienna were generated from international tourism – we miss our visitors and look forward to welcoming them again when the time is right.
Q: As countries around the world gradually lift their lockdowns, visitors are likely to be met with a raft of new rules to protect against Covid-19 when they return. Examples of new regulations include hotel visitor quotas, social distancing and even leaving the middle seat empty in planes. What differences will we see in Vienna?
A: Yes, travel will undoubtedly look different, be it in Vienna or any other city – but preparation and safety is key for us. Hotels have prepared for increased hygiene standards and social-distancing measures. Some outlets have taken this