The return of global gatherings?

As we start to see our feeds fill up with photos from far-flung places across the world (ok, mostly Europe)we’re beginning to feel excited about the return of international events.

Guidelines are still being updated pretty regularly, but we’re allowing ourselves to indulge in a bit of optimism and we’re digging out our dusty passports just in case.

In fact, we’re busy behind the scenes, working with @TheNextWeb - europe’s leading tech festival - to
prepare for an IRL conference at the end of September in Amsterdam - eek! The Dutch powers-that-be can’t give us the final go-ahead until mid-September but we’re keeping everything crossed!

In the meantime, here’s an update on some of the rules and regulations regarding events from some of our favourite cities across the globe! 🌎

NEW YORK

Last year, even the city that never sleeps was put to bed. But how are things looking now? As of 13 September the city will be enforcing a ‘Key to NYC Pass’, which will require all visitors aged 12 and above to provide proof of vaccination. Masks, as ever, will also be strongly encouraged.

But if you live in the UK, (most) EU countries or Ireland, don’t get too excited. The USA is still not permitting visitors from these places unless you’re a US citizen, have family over there or are considered a permanent US resident.

PARIS

Paris has adopted a similar approach to NYC, introducing a ‘Health Pass’ requirement for all gatherings of 50 people or more. The pass must prove that you’re either fully vaccinated, have had a negative PCR test within 48 hours of the event, or that you’ve recovered from Covid-19 within the last six months. If you’re from the UK and fully vaccinated, you’re free to travel in and out of France as you please, but the rules get a bit tricky if not. Full info is available on the www.gov.uk website.

TOKYO

At the moment, Japan has very much closed its doors to international visitors (except for very special circumstances). Events in Tokyo are running at 50% capacity and must conclude by 9pm, but at the moment we’ll only be able to attend via video.

BERLIN

If you’re from the UK and fully vaccinated you’ve got the go-ahead to visit Berlin (if you’re not fully vaccinated, you don’t really stand a chance…) Events are capped at 1,000 people indoors until 11 September, but attendees will need to show proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test or proof of Covid recovery.

SINGAPORE

Currently, only Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents can enter Singapore without prior permission. Social gatherings are limited to five people (if everyone’s fully vaccinated) and only two if not. It looks like we’ll be waiting a little while to board the long-haul!