THE Spanish government is allowing 370 hotels to remain open in the country for "special cases" as thousands of tourists are left stranded abroad.
Brits are currently stuck in the country after the majority of flights were grounded to to the coronavirus pandemic.
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Although thousands of holidaymakers have managed to return home in the midst of the coronavirus crisis, there are many who have been unable to do so, either because they cannot get a flight or cannot afford it.
Spain previously ordered the closure of all hotels and tourist accommodation as part of the bid to stem the spread of the virus.
Today, however, a new order has been made which will allow specifically named hotels in all parts of Spain, including the Canaries and the Balearics, to take in tourists, as well as essential workers who are needed to keep the country afloat.
These include health workers, members of the security forces, employees of other services considered essential or people who must travel for reasons of urgency to care for minors, dependents or the sick.
The specified accommodation includes apartment complexes, bungalows, hostels and hotels across Madrid, Tenerife and Ibiza.
A full list of the hotels to remain open can be found here.
The order will be in force until the end of the state of alarm or until circumstances determine.
These hotels will only be able to provide restaurant services to the people who are staying in them and will not reopen to the general public.
Details of how tourists will pay and how much have not yet been specified.
British Ambassador Hugh Elliott said: "This is a very difficult time for British nationals who find themselves currently unable to get back to the UK and we welcome this announcement by the Spanish authorities that some hotels and short-stay accommodation will remain open during the state of emergency.
"Such accommodation is mainly aimed at workers, but there will be options available for British travellers who have not been able to return to the UK yet.
"Meanwhile we are in close contact with airlines to ensure those of you who wish to return home are able to do so in the coming days.
"More generally, if you live in the UK and are currently travelling in Spain, you should be making plans to return to the UK while there are still commercial routes available.
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Troops are currently stationed at airports in Spain following the government's decision to impose the emergency Covid-19 measures – forcing all expats and tourists to stay indoors.
Helicopters and drones have even been deployed to ensure locals and tourists confine themselves to stem the spread of coronavirus.
Those caught breaking the strict lockdown have been warned they face hefty fines ranging from £90 to £25,000 and prison sentences.
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