Now that the Storm has Past: It's Vacation Time
I took a break from writing travel blogs for a while, chiefly because I didn't want to come across as promoting travel during a time when it was unsafe to do so. But now that the ports are reopening, we Travel Bugs are anxious and readier to go than ever. This blog is a brief travel update of the Caribbean destinations that have opened or plan to open their borders to tourists in the near future.
List of Caribbean Islands that are Opening for Tourism.
First on the list is Jamaica. Jamaica opened its borders to tourist on June 15th. However, this does not mean that it is a walk in the park or automatic entry to get on this paradise island. Things and times have indeed changed.
Know the Rules Before you Go
Prospective visitors must download the JamCOVID app and answer the questions asked there. And if they pass that pre-screen phase, they may then proceed to apply to visit the island. Proof of a negative COVID test must be presented to the airline representatives. The test results must be no older than a few days. Upon arrival at port in Jamaica, tourists must brace themselves for repeated sanitation, filling out of forms and a COVID Test. They will be examined by medical professionals and their temperatures taken. Before visitors leave the airport, they are entered into a data base to which their electronic devices are attached and the government tracks each visitors movements through this device. Everyday, the visitor is expected to send an update on their health using the app.
For some, this is too much of a rigorous process to start their vacation. For others, the added precautions give them ease of mind. So if none of this phases you, hop onto that airline website and start booking your flight to Jamaica. The resorts are opened, the people are warm and hospitable, the food is delicious. The truth is that once you get to Jamaica you won't want to leave.
Jamaica may be the only country taking all these extra precautions to keep the locals and visitors safe and healthy. However, other Caribbean territories that have opened their borders also have restrictions in place. These restrictions and conditions may or may not be as stringent as those in Jamaica. Please take the time to review them before you book your flight.
As Of June 4th, St Lucia embarked on phased reopening. So check to make sure that the country you are flying from has been approved for entry on the dates you plan to travel.
Aruba opens its borders between June 15-July 10. American tourists are able to enter the country from July 10th.
Barbados opens to all tourists on July 12th.
Bahamas opens between June 15 and July 1.
The US Virgin Islands opened on June 1.
Puerto Rico opens on July 15th.
Turks and Caicos opened on June 5th.
Cuba is scheduled to open in late August.
Mexico will open it's borders on a region by region basis. International flights are allowed based on the scheduling that they have set. However, the border between Mexico and the US will remain closed until July 21st.
As always, until next time:
Venture Out. Keep exploring. Travel Smart and Stay Safe.
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