Unsurprisingly, the Austrian federal government announced on Monday that there will be no easing for the time being. Although they want to decide on possible further steps on March 1, 2021, there was a clear announcement in the direction of tourism, gastronomy, culture and events: They cannot expect openings before Easter.

Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz (ÖVP) said that the next easing steps should be taken “around Easter at the earliest”. Until then, he is relying on the extensive test strategy, which will also apply from the beginning of March free home tests will include. Caution: These do not entitle you to access the hairdresser or to enter the country. For example, the Free tests in pharmacies.

Health Minister Rudolf Anschober (Greens) described the current situation in Austria as “stable”. The next two weeks would be under special observation and a “point of departure” for possible openings around Easter. It is unclear whether this vague point in time will hold.

The short summary of the latest press conference of the Kurz government is done in a few words: Hotels remain closed to tourists, gastronomy, culture and events remain closed. This means that a major aviation event planned in Vienna on March 18, 2021 should have been almost done. By the way: Lounges at the airport are also subject to the ban on catering and may only offer takeaways. Even the "Smoking rooms " have now been officially closed.