Protests erupt as France introduces new vaccination requirements
On Monday July 12, French President Emmanuel Macron introduced new COVID-19 regulations as the delta variant continues to spread, including limiting cafes, bars and shopping centers to those who are vaccinated or have recently tested negative for COVID-19.
The mandates, which will start in August, compelled more than 900,000 French citizens to book vaccine appointments through the online medical platform Doctolib, as reported by NPR.
Translation: "Yesterday, 926,000 French people made an appointment on Doctolib to be vaccinated (first dose). An absolute record."
Additionally, Macron announced mandatory vaccination for all health care workers, specifically caregivers and staff in hospitals, clinics, retirement homes, establishments for disabled people and home health workers.
"Our country is facing a strong resumption of the epidemic," he said on Twitter. "The vaccination of all French people is the only way to return to normal life."
Related: My experience getting a COVID-19 test in France
Come August, French natives and visitors alike will be required to show proof of vaccination or results of a recent negative PCR test via a digital health pass.
As of July 21, those over the age of 12 will also be required to present a health pass to enter amusement parks or attend concerts, festivals or shows, as a rise in cases has been attributed to people ages 15-44, per NPR.
The restrictions apply to public places with more than 50 people as well as public transit trains and airplanes.
The new health requirements have also set off country-wide protests.
France reopened its borders to fully vaccinated travelers from "green" countries, the U.S. included, on June 17 with proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated Americans are also welcome as long as they present a negative PCR test or rapid test taken within 72 hours prior to departure for France.
As of today, nearly 40% of France's population is fully vaccinated. Macron said the goal is to achieve 100% vaccination.
The country will also be rolling out a vaccination campaign for schools in September, as reported by France 24, a French state-owned news network.
"Our choice is simple: to put the restrictions on the unvaccinated rather than on all," said Macron.
Related: France adds US to ‘green’ list: I’m in the country now — here’s what it’s like and what to expect
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The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is a stacked card with a rewards rate that will help you earn bonus points on everyday and business-related purchases. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Finally, the free night award certificate with a redemption level of 35,000 points or less can get you hundreds of dollars in potential value each year.Pros
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- Earn a free-night award each card renewal month (up to 35,000 points)
- Receive 15 elite night credits to jump-start status
- Transfer Marriott points to 40+ airlines
Cons
- Airline points transfer ratios are poor
- Must spend $60,000 in a year for second free-night award
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 5/3/23.
- Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. Terms and Conditions Apply.
- 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
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- 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
- Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card.
- Terms apply.