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So as of last Monday we are in Phase 2 in Andalucía (Madrid and Catalunya are catching up and are on Phase 1). This means that more public spaces are opening, bars and restaurants have a bit more flexibility, non-essential shops and department stores are also allowed to open, and some restrictions are lifted for general circulation around town and within the province. All of course with the required “social distancing” measures, and all kinds of disinfecting, cleaning, etc going on. Ah, and masks have been mandatory since last weekend. If all goes well, Phase 3 is meant to start on June 8th.
What could go wrong? Well, plenty. I still see (from my balcony) too many people not wearing masks, walking too close to others, basically not giving a shit. So I am personally still in Phase 0, only going out for essential shopping and taking out the rubbish, otherwise I am staying home and staying safe. And walking on my roof (view from rooftop in photo above).
Over the past few years Sevilla has lost several of its landmark independent shops (and bars), usually replaced by tacky souvenir places or chain stores. Papelería Ferrer, founded in 1856, is one of the last ones still standing. It’s important for us to support these places, and not just lament the loss of them after they are gone. Though I do wonder if it’s inevitable, especially when owners die and there is no family member to take over. Of course in other (most?) cases it’s a case of rents skyrocketing and these small businesses not being able to afford to carry on. So perhaps the most realistic thing is to just enjoy and appreciate these wonderful places while we still can.