Because of the coronavirus pandemic, many countries have closed their borders to travelers in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus. Now that we’re months into the pandemic and more locations have safety regulations in place to address the risk of exposure to COVID-19, more countries are starting to reopen their borders to visitors.
The Caribbean is an ideal destination for private jet travelers from Orlando and elsewhere because of its proximity and the number of luxury resorts for a relaxing and comfortable trip. Most Caribbean nations have strict health regulations in place to prevent the spread of the virus within their borders, so it’s a safe destination for travelers who can meet those requirements. But which Caribbean destinations are the safest?
The Bahamas
Early in the pandemic, the Bahamas had restricted incoming travel to only private jets coming from the United States. The country has now opened its borders to some commercial flights but requires a negative COVID-19 test to be submitted within five days of the flight’s arrival in the Bahamas. Any visitors are also required to remain within the property of their accommodations, although they are allowed to take advantage of any amenities those accommodations can offer. There may be further requirements such as social distancing, limiting the number of people in confined spaces such as elevators, and wearing masks, especially when social distancing is not possible.
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda, which share an island, have both opened their borders again to travelers. However, anyone visiting either country is required to submit a form detailing their accommodations during their stay. They’ll also be required to prove a negative test result for COVID-19 and fill out a health survey while on the flight. There may be additional health checks once you arrive as well as the authorities are dedicated to ensuring that all travelers are healthy.
Barbados
In order to travel to Barbados, you’ll need to have tested negative for the coronavirus within 72 hours of your flight if you’re flying from a higher-risk country like the United States. Once you’ve arrived, visitors are required to quarantine at one of Barbados’ approved hotels for at least 14 days before being allowed to visit any other part of the country. That’s even with a negative test result and applies to visitors from lower-risk countries as well.
Grenada
Grenada requires all travelers to provide a negative test result for COVID-19 within seven days before arrival in the country. On top of that, each traveler must provide details about their accommodations for contact tracing as well as a health form and then remain at their accommodations for at least 14 days. Anyone wanting to exit quarantine because they’re staying for longer can take another test at the end of the 14-day quarantine period in order to gain leave to travel within Grenada.
Jamaica
Jamaica reopened its borders to travelers in June, but has restricted travel to two portions of the country: between Negril and Port Antonio and between Negril and Milk River. These two sections of the country contain most of Jamaica’s top tourist attractions and the limitations are designed to both limit the risk of exposure from international travelers and also make contact tracing easier in the event of exposure. Temperature checks are required upon arrival at the airport and any travelers are also required to submit a negative test for COVID-19. There’s also a nation-wide curfew of 9 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Many of the countries in the Caribbean have been enforcing health regulations and restrictions in order to keep both their own citizens and visitors safe from the coronavirus while allowing people to have a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. The best way to travel to any of these destinations is on a private jet charter, where you can reduce exposure to the virus by avoiding contact with other passengers, as well as having a much more comfortable flight.
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