With the Omicron variant running rampant, travel is once again affected. Here’s what to expect and be aware of if you intend to visit some of these top Caribbean destinations.
Aruba: This tiny island is best known for its white sand beaches and near-perfect weather. It features the beauty of the Fofoti trees and has many coves to explore, as well as arts and culture.
Those traveling to Aruba will face strict policies. According to the Aruba Tourism Authority, travelers must show proof of a negative molecular COVID-19 test within two days of their departure and complete an online Embarkation/Disembarkation card. Additionally, anyone over the age of 15 must purchase Aruba Visitors Insurance for $15. Aruba also is requiring people to wear masks in indoor public spaces. Currently, no quarantine is in place unless the traveler tests positive for COVID-19 upon arrival.
The Bahamas: Known for its lively dancing and joy, scenic beaches, and even swimming pigs, the Bahamas is a highly sought-after destination.
The Bahamas has similar restrictions and policies to Aruba: travelers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test within five days of arrival. They must also fill out a health visa application and opt into the Bahamas’ COVID-19 health insurance. If a traveler wishes to visit islands within the Bahamas, they will be required to test at every new island. Unvaccinated travelers will have an additional requirement to fill out a daily health questionnaire and take a rapid antigen test on day five of their trip.
Barbados: The most eastern island in the Caribbean, Barbados offers breathtaking architecture, interesting history, and some of the best rum distilleries. For those who enjoy golfing, the island offers fantastic courses.
As with the other destinations on the list, travelers to Barbados must produce a negative PCR test within three days of travel. Additionally, the results must be uploaded to the BIMSafe app. However, in Barbados, unvaccinated individuals are required to quarantine for five days, take another PCR test and remain in quarantine until they receive the results. Travelers must also book their room ahead of time at a government-approved location.
Dominican Republic: An island that features beautiful beaches, a myriad of resorts, and scenic forests and mountains, the Dominican Republic is a great place to visit.
Unlike the others on this list, the Dominican Republic’s restrictions are sparse. Travelers from the United States, Canada, Mexico, and France don’t even need a negative COVID-19 test to enter. There is a list of other nations that do, however, require a negative test within three days of arrival—including the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Ireland. Once travelers have arrived, there are no quarantines at this time.
Jamaica: An island renowned for its relaxed culture and reggae music, as well as waterfalls and delicious jerk recipes. Jamaica has always been a popular destination for those seeking some island respite.
Travelers must fill out an authorization form and produce a negative PCR test within three days of arrival. Jamaica also has an additional layer of measures called the Resilient Corridors, designed with tourists in mind to visit locations and accommodations that meet strict COVID-19 safety standards. If you are a fully vaccinated traveler staying outside the Resilient Corridor, you will not be required to quarantine. However, unvaccinated individuals will be subject to quarantine for two weeks.
As we see, many islands have similar restrictions. Before booking any travel, be sure to check daily as policies and guidelines can change without warning. If you want to get away for some island time, ensure you are abiding by all safety procedures and policies.