by Danielle Garrett of PlanIt Travel Designs for The Aha! Connection
One of my favorite Caribbean Islands, Turks and Caicos, recently announced you must be fully vaccinated to visit their island (this applies to ages 16 years and older). This may seem extreme to some, but I suspect we are going to see a growing number of islands make this same decision. The initial (and main reason) is to protect their hospitals. Most islands are fragile medically and do not have the local resources to be overburdened. However, another interesting reason has emerged. A marketing technology company, Zeta Global, analyzed the site traffic on main tourism websites for several islands after they announced their vaccination-only policies. Travel interest increased to every island they analyzed (Anguilla at 59%, Caymans at 44%, St.Kitts & Nevis at 26%, and Grenada at 25%).
Turks and Caicos was prepared for mixed feedback, but they have received a very positive response and now are anticipating a long-term positive impact on their bookings. St. Barts and Trinidad & Tobago are also on this vaccinated-only list. Click here for the above-sited article related to Caribbean travel trends.
There are still many islands that are allowing unvaccinated travelers to visit. Most of these are requiring a Covid test to enter. Some examples are Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Bahamas, Aruba, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
Remember, each Caribbean Island has its own set of rules and the entry requirements change often. Here’s a great article on the different Caribbean Islands and what you need to know before you go!
Please remember to travel responsibly, wear your mask and reconsider travel if you are elderly or immune-compromised! And remember to check your destination travel restrictions/requirements before and during planning, as well as double-checking before departure!
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