Why we think it is safe to study abroad in Sardinia, Italy and what you should know before going there!
This blog post only displays the current situation in Sardinia, Italy, and why we think it is safe to study there. As conditions can change quickly, it is recommended to follow the news and stay informed about travel restrictions and guidelines from your home country as well as the Italian government.
You can study abroad in Sardinia despite COVID-19!
Have you always dreamed of doing an exchange semester abroad, experiencing a different culture, and exploring new places? Good news, our European destination Sardinia is accepting students for spring semester 2021. The University of Cagliari in Sardinia is the perfect choice if you want to combine relaxing days at the beach with studies.
Find out more about the University of Cagliari here
How can I travel to Italy and what do I need to consider?
Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and belongs to Italy. Since the beginning of July, it is possible to fly to Italy again from most of the EU Member States as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom of Great Britain, and Northern Ireland. Students from the USA are also able to enter the country for study purposes. When you are from the European Union or the Schengen area, no quarantine will be needed after you arrive in Italy. Therefore, there are no big hurdles to enter the country and start your studies abroad.
Exchange students from Greece, Malta, Spain, and Croatia are asked to provide a negative COVID-19 test, which must not be older than 72 hours. Otherwise, you can take a test before entering Italy. If you are from one of the above-named countries, please report your entry to the Italian health department in Cagliari (Dipartimento di prevenzione dell’azienda sanitaria locale).
Moreover, it is important to know that everyone must register online before the arrival to receive a QR-code that functions as an entry card to Italy. After your registration, you will receive an e-mail, including a document. This document must be filled in and sent back at least 48 hours before your arrival. Then, you will receive the QR-code. Finally, your body temperature will be measured before you enter Italy. If your temperature is 37,5°C or below, you are good to go!
Is it safe for me to study in Sardinia?
There is almost no country that has not reported any cases of the coronavirus so far. However, some countries are considered safe again for travel. Sardinia, the island of the wind, is located 202km west of the Italian mainland and 12km south of the French island Corsica. This remoteness was and still is a great advantage for the Sardinians during COVID-19.
While the mainland, especially the North of Italy, was hit particularly hard, Sardinia was spared and only slightly affected. Besides the distance from corona hot spots, the virus spread during the winter months, when the traffic to and from the island was very little. Additionally, the Italian government reacted fast and established strict measures like curfews in March. Therefore, the situation in Italy not only improved but also Sardinia was protected from the spread of COVID-19. The restrictions were slowly abolished since May.
At present, there is no travel warning from the Federal Foreign Office for Italy, because the number of infections per 100,000 inhabitants did not exceed 50 cases over a period of a week. Consequently, Italy, including Sardinia, are currently considered safe.
Follow the rules and stay safe!
The social life in Sardinia flourishes again. Many bars, restaurants, and shops are open again but follow strict infection controls and hygiene requirements. Moreover, private and public events can take place under regulations. But there are some things to consider when you explore the amazing island life. Always bring your mask and disposable gloves, you will need them in some stores. You are also required to wear your mask from 6am to 6pm in bustling public places, otherwise, you risk paying a fine. Keep in mind to keep the proper distance of 1-2 meters. Besides the usual hand sanitizer, some other precautions are implemented. If you want to enter for instance authorities or museums, do not be surprised if your body temperature will be measured.
These measures will keep you as safe as possible during your studies. But even under these conditions, never forget to have fun, enjoy your experience and make the best out of it!
Are you interested in finding out more about Beyond Abroad’s European destinations?
Asia Exchange is a Finnish company providing study abroad opportunities in Asia Pacific for students from all around the world. Want to get travel tips and new blog posts straight to your inbox? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter! If you have any questions about studying abroad, feel free to contact us! We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
This article was written by our intern Nele!
