The Caribbean; A tropical paradise in the winter

BY TVISHA MISTRY

The Caribbean travel industry continues to be heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic as a result of postponed travel plans. Many countries just like the Carribeans, finance their GDP by advertising their unique geographical features, raising capital through their tourism sectors. Low tourism has caused the economy of such places to drop. Having consequential impacts on both its residents and the country as a whole. Let’s take a short trip together through the islands to see how they are living, and what some of these islands have in store for some lucky visitors.

Bahamas during pandemic
Pack your bags, we’re going to the Bahamas! The island re-opens its doors to visitors who seek haven from the winter. Being the perfect tropical paradise during the winter, the country plans to reopen hotels. Bahamas Antalis Paradise Island is scheduled to reopen on December 10th, 2020. Grand Hyatt Baha Mar and Exuma’s Grand Isle resort & Spa are both scheduled to reopen on December 17th, 2020.

Additionally, the Exuma International Airport is getting a massive upgrade. Expanding the airport terminals from 20,000 square feet to 60,000 square feet. The project is expected to be completed by March 2022.

Dominica to be published in the National Geographic Traveller (UK) list for adventure
National Geographic Traveller UK announced that Dominica will be the first Caribbean island ever to be featured in their Jan/Feb 2021 edition of “Best of the World List for Adventure.” According to National Geographic Traveller UK, the list highlights destinations that demonstrate: resilient communities, innovative conservation efforts, and thrilling opportunities for future explorations.

“We are delighted at this recognition from National Geographic Traveller UK, of our efforts to develop and promote adventure tourism in Dominica,” said Hon Denise Charles (Minister of Tourism, International Transport and Maritime). “This niche is one of our key pillars for developing a resilient tourism product in close collaboration with community partners. This is a testament to the hard work of our many stakeholders who continue to provide experiences in concert with our natural elements.”

After taking a direct hit from Hurricane Maria in September 2017, the government resolved to make Dominica the world’s first climate-resilient nation in the world. The island’s tourism sector contributes vastly to secure hurricane-proof buildings, aiding in the overall goal of creating a climate-resilient nation.

The island holds weathered mountains running down the spine of the island forming a natural shield. Largely protecting the island, Dominica is often called “Waitukubuli”; ie. tall is her body. Known best for active volcanoes, rivers, towering waterfalls, and black sand beaches; the list will additionally highlight Dominica’s leafy rainforests and its unique geothermal boiling lake.

St. Martin and the St. Maarten partnered initiative
The Department of Tourism of Saint Martin and St. Maarten Tourism partnered together to launch a destination video, intended to promote visitors. The short clip captures the beauty of the islands highlighting places to visit, activities, and the uniqueness of both the island cultures.

“Keeping visitors inspired and engaged is crucial in keeping the destination on the forefront, and having a captivating video is an effective way to spread awareness and capture the attention of viewers that are online,” said Aida Weinum, Director of the St. Martin Tourist Office. “With this video, we hope to inspire future travellers to choose our island as their preferred destination to vacation.”

St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts & Nevis officially opened its international borders for tourists on October 31st, 2020. Since the opening, the federation has welcomed 183 travellers to shore, greeting them with a festive performance (St. Kitts Masqueraders).

The federation has set strict precautionary guidelines to allow safe travels for all visitors. The outline is as follows: All international travellers are required to submit proof of a PCR- test, 72 before arrival. Visitors staying seven nights or less are required to take a PCR test 72 hours prior to their departure.

For efficiency purposes, these tests will be conducted on the hotel property. If the test results are positive, the traveller will be required to stay in isolation at the cost of their respective hotel!