Official Reopen for Tourism in Saint Lucia | 19-May-2020

Posted On Tuesday, May 19, 2020

You will soon be able to visit the Caribbean again — with the island of Saint Lucia  the first Caribbean destination to officially reopen for tourism on June 4. Saint Lucia Tourism Minister Dominic Fedee announced the move, which is part of what he called a “phased approach for reopening the island’s tourism sector.” The first phase of the reopening will reopen Saint Lucia’s Hewanorra International Airport, which will be only open to travelers from the United States. 
Fedee said some 1,500 hotel rooms were being prepared to reopen in early June, pending a new COVID-19 certification process for hotels. on the island. 

That will almost certainly include Sandals’ resorts in Saint Lucia, which are scheduled to reopen June 4.

But visiting the island will come with a series of protocols to reflect the new reality of travel. 

Most crucially, visitors to Saint Lucia will be required to present “certified proof” of a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of boarding their flight. 

Upon arrival to Saint Lucia, all travelers must continue to use face masks and practice social distancing. 

Visitors will also be subject to health screenings and temperature checks by Saint Lucia airport authorities. 

Protocols are also being set up for taxis and other transfers. 

As for hotels, Fedee said properties would have to meet “a dozen or more” specific health. social distancing and other protocols before being able to reopen. 

“Our new protocols have been carefully crafted and will build confidence among travelers and our citizens,” stated the Honourable Dominic Fedee. He noted, “The Government of Saint Lucia remains resolved to protect both lives and livelihoods as it jump starts its economy.”

The second phase of Saint Lucia’s tourism sector will begin Aug. 1, with details set to be revealed over the next few weeks. 

Saint Lucia has recorded 18 cases of COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic, all of whom have recovered. The island has no active cases. according to the government. 

Saint Lucia is the first island to officially announce a set reopening date.

Caribbean Journal, 19-May 2020