Impact of Coronavirus on Daily Life in Italy: Lessons from Sardinia

The world has been significantly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, including Italy. While Italy once faced severe challenges, the country has since adapted and adjusted to new norms. This article explores the current state of daily life in Sardinia, an Italian island, and shares insights from a local resident.

How Daily Life Changed in Italy

Life in Italy has undergone significant changes since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Large gatherings such as football matches, concerts, and public events have been limited or canceled. However, people are still required to wear masks in crowded places like shopping malls, grocery stores, and public transportation. Freedom of travel within the country and abroad has been maintained, with people enjoying holidays by the sea or in the mountains. Museums, exhibitions, restaurants, and bars remain open, with remote working becoming a common practice for those who can do so.

Despite these adjustments, the main change continues to be the presence of masks and hand sanitizers in public spaces. People are encouraged to carry masks, and sanitizer stations are widely available in most public areas. The overall atmosphere suggests that daily life is largely normal, with people continuing to go to work and engage in regular activities.

The Unique Case of Sardinia

While the mainland of Italy continues to experience fluctuating situations, Sardinia, an island off the western coast of Italy, has shown a different trajectory. According to the resident, Sardinia has managed to keep the number of active cases relatively low, with only 53 active cases as of 6-7 August. The initial number of cases in Sardinia was around 1,400, and the numbers decreased to about 7 active cases around 10 July. This reduction in cases is attributed to the unique topography and appeal of Sardinian beaches, attracting tourists who might not adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Despite the low numbers, there are still concerns about the spread of the virus. Many beaches have implemented limited access policies, requiring bookings. However, not all beaches enforce these rules effectively, leading to overcrowding. A recent observation by the resident shows that even a small beach, Calamosca in Cagliari, has experienced an influx of visitors, defying the regulations.

Adapting to New Norms in Sardinia

The resident highlights their personal measures to adhere to the new health guidelines. Upon returning home, they remove their shoes on a doormat, sanitize their hands, put on slippers, and leave their shoes to dry in the sun along with their mask, mobile phone, and clothes. They then use their elbows to avoid touching indoor surfaces and wash their hands with soap. Additionally, they sanitize their phone with an alcohol-based mixture and wash the cover.

The daily life in Sardinia differs somewhat from other regions in the north, where the situation remains more challenging. Even so, Sardinia allows people to visit restaurants, cinemas, and churches, but strict adherence to guidelines is necessary. Public attractions, shops, and bars are equipped with hand sanitizers and markers to ensure hygiene.

The city of Cagliari, where our resident lives, is particularly focused on economic recovery, given that tourism plays a significant role. The municipality has initiated several projects aimed at attracting visitors and boosting the economy. One notable project is the construction of a panoramic wheel on Via Roma, a seafront that is expected to offer breathtaking views of the ancient neighborhoods. This initiative aims to revitalize the area and encourage tourists to visit Sardinia once again.

While some restaurants have been forced to close due to the tourism crisis, the city remains vibrant and not under permanent lockdown. It is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of the local population to maintain regular activities and promote economic growth despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Conclusion

The impact of the coronavirus on daily life in Sardinia demonstrates the importance of adhering to health guidelines while balancing the need for economic recovery. The lessons learned and the resilience shown by residents of Sardinia offer valuable insights into how communities can navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic. By maintaining these measures and promoting tourism, Sardinia can continue to thrive and attract visitors from all around the world.

For those interested in learning more about the unique situation in Sardinia and the broader impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Italy, these resources can provide further information:

Coronavirus in Italy - UNESCO Sardinia Tourism - Scorano Sardinia Infographic - Coronavirus Situation