Cabin Fever Countdown Presents; From the Bahamas with love

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“I want to get away. I want to fly away. Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!” Lenny Kravitz

Oh lord! Aren’t we all trying to get away from here. For some, it might be to get out of the city, and into your cottage. For others, it could be a trip over the border to visit family. For some, the idea of crystal blue waters, white sand, and a mojito are fantasies that keep us hopeful. Hopeful for a time when we can fly away.

I have fantastic news for island hoppers. The Bahamas’ is following a strategic, phased approach that ensures critical health and safety protocols are being adhered to, so that visitors can come and visit the island, without any fears.

Bahamas top priority is their commitment to the health and wellbeing of their residents and visitors.

“We must remember that we are living in a new normal in the wake of COVID-19, and a lot is going to change across the tourism sector. We are putting an even greater emphasis on making sure The Bahamas is safe and clean for everyone, and look forward to once again providing travellers with the tropical experience our islands are known for.” Joy Jibrilu (Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation Director General)

As of July 1^st, 2020, Bahamas will resume international travel, which will include:

• Commercial airlines (both international and domestic)
• Hotels and vacation rentals (Airbnb and HomeAway)
• Transportation (taxis, jitneys, and buses)

That’s right! In about a month, you will be able to visit this tropical hot spot, ranked one the best vacation destinations in the world. Soon you will be able to experience beautiful waters, amazing weather, and about 700 islands that make up the Bahamas.

Since you are considering making the trip, now might be a good time to tell you some stuff about the island that you may not know. In the Bahamas, you might actually be able to sneak a peak at the oceanfront villa of Oprah Winfrey. Bahamas is one of the Caribbean islands that are known to attract the rich and the famous.

Not only might you spot a famous face, you can also find some great shopping opportunities, which is not something other islands in the region can boast about. Nassau and Paradise Island are known for the exquisite jewellery shopping, as well as high-end boutiques.

Let’s not forget about the beaches. The Bahamas is one of the only places in the world where you can find pink sand beaches. There are some great diving spots for snorkelers and scuba divers at Exuma Cays and Sea Park, and let’s not forget the amazing food. When you are there, you can try everything: baked crab, rock lobster, fried fish and conch salad.

Now, I know you are eager to get there, but there are some things you need to know. Travellers are expected to follow The Bahamas “Healthy Traveller Campaign,” that encourages both visitors and residents to continue practicing social distancing measures, regular washing of hands, and use of appropriate PPE (face masks).

When you arrive, prepare to go through temperature screenings that will be conducted by healthcare personnel. Travellers will be required to wear a facemask when entering and transiting air and sea terminals, while going through customs and security, and at baggage claim.

There are several other procedures that will be enforced with the Healthy Traveller Campaign in place:

• Hotels, resorts and vacation rentals will enforce extensive health and safety protocols like: enhanced cleaning for guest rooms, public spaces, high touch point areas on frequent, regulated schedules.
• Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes will be readily available across properties.
• Employee health monitoring and temperature check points will be enforced.
• A limited number of guests will be permitted in elevators at one time.
• Unnecessary literature in guest rooms will be eliminated.
• Businesses must establish a maximum number of guests and limit the duration of each guest visit to allow for social distancing.
• When possible, guests will be encouraged to use personal gear (such as snorkelling gear) and businesses will have items available for purchase.
• Guests will not be allowed to touch products unless with the intent to purchase and cashless sales will be encouraged.
• Beach chairs must be arranged to allow six feet of social distancing between family units.
• Buffets will be discontinued until further notice. All meals must be single or pre-packaged.
• Businesses must utilize disposable menus or offer on monitors or static display boards.
• Staff must wear PPE (disposable mask and gloves).

Are you ready! The Bahamas is ready for you. They are a safe and healthy destination to visit, and the ultimate goal is for you to feel safe visiting. For more information, or to view the Tourism Readiness and Recovery Plan, please visit: www.bahamas.com.