The British Virgin Islands were badly hit by Hurricane Irma. Many of the islands’ properties and luxury vessels owned by charter companies were destroyed in the deadly storm. Just as the islands were ready to celebrate their reopening, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. It has been a while, but finally, the British Virgin Islands are ready to reopen to international tourists. However, comprehensive entry protocols have been put in place.
British Virgin Islands Reopen
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is an archipelago of 60 beautiful islands and cays. It is one of the world’s major sailing destinations. Despite the fact that BVI attracts celebrity visitors and fancy yachts, the islands have remained relatively undeveloped and unspoiled. This is one of the major charms of the islands, with always a quite place to visit.
After Hurricane Irma destroyed many of the properties on the islands, along with many luxury vessels, the British Virgin Islands have been busy rebuilding, but are now ready to welcome international visitors again to their shores.
Many popular resorts, including Oil Nut Bay, Rosewood Little Dix Bay and Necker Island have undergone rebuilds, costing millions of dollars. However, they are up and ready to happily accept guests once again.
Health And Safety Protocols In BVI
While the islands are open again, local government wants to ensure the safety of both locals and residents. All visitors must have a certified negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result, taken within five days of arrival. They are also required to have proof of travel insurance, including comprehensive medical coverage.
Anyone who wants to visit must apply for a “BVI Gateway Traveler Authorization Certificate” within five days of traveling to the islands. They must also complete an application at least 48 hours before arrival, while uploading the test result.
On arrival at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, visitors are to be directed to the BVI’s new Welcome Center, where they will undergo an additional test. Visitors will also be required to activate a contact tracing app on their phones, while wearing a government-issued wristband monitoring device. They will also be given an appointment for their day four test.
The reason for this is that visitors are required to quarantine for four days at their hotel, villa, resort or docked vessel, with the test taken on day four. If the test comes up negative, visitors will finally be allowed to move freely around the islands, while keeping to the government’s social distancing and other safety measures.
Protocols Should Visitors Test Positive
Any visitors who test positive on arrival must quarantine at their hotel, resort or villa for a minimum of 14 days. They will be required to take approved transportation to and from their lodging and testing sites, which are conveniently located throughout the British Virgin Islands.
The BVI government will not allow visitors who test positive to depart from the islands. They will be required to quarantine in an approved location for 14 days, at their own expense. It must also be understood that the two required RT-PCR tests, the monitoring bracelet and the use of a mobile contact tracing app will also be at the expense of the visitor.
Various protocols and procedures are being developed for travelers who arrive by sea and these are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks. To find out more about the British Virgin Islands’ COVID-19 safety protocols, visit the official website.
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