Archive for March, 2022

St. Kitts & Nevis Revise Entry Requirements for Travelers Arriving by Air

Basseterre, St. Kitts (March 29, 2022) – Effective Friday, April 1, 2022, all international visitors arriving by Air may show proof of either a negative COVID-19 antigen test or a negative RT-PCR test to enter the Federation. Antigen tests must be taken within the 24 hours prior to arrival; RT-PCR tests must be taken within the 72 hours prior to arrival. This is a revision of the previous requirement, which only allowed for RT-PCR tests.

“The Federation is primed to continue welcoming visitors through the spring and summer months. We are fully open for visitors, and we are pleased to share revised entry protocols that make air travel to the destination easier for our international guests,” said Lindsay F.P. Grant, Minister of Tourism, Transport and Ports. “We are confident that these amended entry requirements will aid in the rebound of our air arrivals, and the ongoing recovery of our tourism industry and related economies.”

“Spring and summer are ideal times to experience our destination and easing our entry processes means more seamless arrivals for our guests,” added Ellison “Tommy” Thompson, CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority. “We look forward to travellers immersing themselves in our quintessential Caribbean experiences this season, whether they’re seeking a relaxing escape, the adrenaline of the outdoors, exceptional cuisine, live music, or a destination rich in history.”

Only fully vaccinated visitors may visit St. Kitts and Nevis. Exceptions are in place for children under 18 as well as citizens, residents and returning nationals of the Federation. Children ages 11 and under who are accompanying their fully vaccinated parents or guardians take the vaccination status of their parents. Unvaccinated children ages 12-17 must test upon arrival and vacation in place with all family members while awaiting test results.

For all the Travel Protocols and Requirements remaining in place for the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis, including the submission of negative test results, please visit https://www.stkittstourism.kn/travel-requirements.

Below are the travel requirements for fully vaccinated visitors as of April 1, 2022:

  • All visitors 18 and older must be fully vaccinated. A visitor is considered fully vaccinated when two weeks have passed since receiving their second dose of a two dose vaccine series (Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/Oxford, Sinopharm or Sinovac), or two weeks after they have received a single dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson). Mixing of approved vaccines for St. Kitts and Nevis is accepted.
    • Unvaccinated children ages 12-17 will need to take a COVID-19 test (paid for by visitor) upon arrival; the entire family will need to vacation in place until receipt of negative COVID-19 test.
    • Children ages 11 and under take the vaccination status of their parents.

Submit negative COVID-19 test results; visitors may choose between:

  • RT-PCR negative test results from a CLIA/CDC/UKAS approved lab accredited with ISO/IEO 17025 standard, taken 72 hours prior to travel
  • Negative antigen test results from a CLIA/CDC/UKAS approved lab accredited with ISO/IEO 17025 standard, taken 24 hours prior to travel.
  • Travelers should note that no self-samples or home test will be considered valid.
  • Fill out the embarkation form and all other supporting documentation.
  • Fully vaccinated visitors will be required to submit a copy of their official vaccination record card including dates when doses were administered.
  • All incoming visitors must have a hard copy of their negative RT-PCR or antigen test results, and vaccination record card.
  • Forms must be submitted no later than 24 hours prior to travel: visit here to access form, upload test results and vaccination record card.

Health Screening Questions:

  • If the visitor’s application has not been flagged by Health Officials, visitors will be automatically processed and directed to Immigration.
  • In the event a visitor’s application is flagged, they will undergo health screening questions and if they exhibit any covid symptoms, the visitor will be required to take a COVID-19 test on site at the visitor’s expense.
  • Antigen tests are available for outbound air visitors whose countries of origin accept approved rapid testing upon return from international destinations. RT-PCR testing is also available. The Federation has removed the exit testing requirement for visitors whose countries of origin do not require return testing.

 

Posted in: 2022 News, Blog, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Destination News

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Curaçao Launches ‘Spring, Sun and Savings’ Seasonal Offers

WILLEMSTAD – MARCH 28, 2022 – Recognized worldwide for its rich history, diverse culture, colorful architecture, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, the island of Curaçao is one the Caribbean’s most dynamic and inviting destinations catering to the diverse needs of today’s modern traveler. The Curaçao Tourist Board is making it easier than ever for curious travelers to immerse themselves in the destination through the launch of its digital deals portal: www.curacao-deals.com. Updated seasonally, the site will serve as a resource where travelers can familiarize themselves with the island’s top offers.

Following the recent removal of all testing for entry requirements and on-island COVID restrictions, like curfews and mask mandates, there is no better time than now to visit Curaçao and get to know its colors and culture. In celebration of eased entry requirements and year-round sun and spirit, the destination of Curaçao is proud to launch its “Spring, Sun and Savings” seasonal promotion.

Now through June 30th, travelers can enjoy limited time offers, such as discounted rates and VIP perks, at 12 participating properties, ranging from new resorts backed by the world’s leading hospitality brands to romance-driven boutique hotels, remote luxury villas, and family-friendly enclaves.

While deals vary per property, travelers can expect savings like:

  • Up to 40% off and $200 in resort coupons at AM Resorts properties, including the all-inclusive Dreams Curaçao and family friendly Sunscape Curaçao
  • $100 food and beverage credit for stays of four or more nights at Renaissance Curaçao
  • Up to 30% off, plus free breakfast at ACOYA Curaçao Resort & Villa
  • Stay longer and receive up to 15% off at Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort
  • Up to 25% off at Papagayo Beach Hotel and Papagayo Beach Resort
  • $100 resort credit when booking 5 nights or more at LionsDive Beach resort
  • Up to 15% off, plus free daily breakfast at the historic Avila Beach Hotel
  • 15% off per night at Bayside Boutique Hotel – Blue Bay
  • 10% off all bookings at Coral Estate Luxury Resort
  • Complimentary romantic upgrade like a beach picnic at Baoase Luxury Resort

For more information on Curaçao’s “Spring, Sun and Savings” promotion, including direct booking links and travel windows, please visit: www.curacao-deals.com.

For more information on the destination of Curaçao, please visit www.curacao.com.

CURAÇAO ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

On March 10th, Curaçao announced that it would no longer enforce testing as an entry requirement and would eliminate all on-island COVID restrictions, including mask mandates, nightly curfews, and proof of vaccination for large-scale events. The newly relaxed measures apply to the destination, though hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and tour operators may enforce protocols at their own discretion. Subsequently, it is recommended that travelers verify specific requirements or protocols directly with each venue.

Curaçao will continue to require travelers to complete its standard entry process for entry into the country as follows:

  1. Complete the digital immigration card online at www.dicardcuracao.com before departure.
  2. Digitally fill out the Passenger Locator Card (PLC) form 48 hours prior to departure and carry a printed document of proof with you.

Posted in: 2022 News, Blog, Destination News

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A Bahamian Welcome: Here’s How to Experience The Bahamas Like The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

NASSAU, Bahamas, 27 March 2022 – The Islands of The Bahamas experienced a very royal welcome. In line with The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited The Bahamas from 24–26 March as part of their Royal Tour of the Caribbean.

The Royal Couple spent time across several Bahamian islands and experienced a ‘Taste of The Bahamas’, with stops in three of the country’s destinations: Nassau, Abaco and Grand Bahama.

“We are pleased to have hosted The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in The Bahamas to experience what makes our destination so unique,” said Deputy Prime Minister the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “The Royal Couple fully immersed themselves in Bahamian culture, with curated visits to three treasured islands. We hope that their trip will inspire other travellers to come experience the adventure waiting for them in our beautiful country.”

The tour kicked off in Nassau, with a Grand Cultural event featuring performances by the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Band, the Bahamas All-Stars Marching Band and a vibrant Junkanoo parade. The Duke and Duchess then travelled to Abaco and Grand Bahama Island.

To mark the royal visit, here are some of the most culturally immersive, locally-centric experiences that visitors can take part in during their travels to The Bahamas—which all provide an authentic taste and feel for Bahamian life.

Deep Dive into Culture in the Nation’s Capital – Nassau & Paradise Island

Nassau & Paradise Island is the tourism hub of The Bahamas, with its booming luxury resorts, casinos, dining, shopping and vibrant nightlife, yet the nation’s capital still holds true to its authentic Bahamian culture. From its celebrated People-to-People Programme, which pairs inquisitive travellers with local residents to experience the destination like a local, to its many historical landmarks such as The Queen’s Staircase, Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, Fort Montagu and Fort Charlotte. In the heart of downtown Nassau, visitors can stop by the Educulture Junkanoo Museum to learn more about the largest and most celebrated experience in The Bahamas: Junkanoo.

Island Hopping for an Immersive Visit – The Abacos

Surrounded by calm seas and beautiful beaches, The Abacos reign as one of the top boating destinations in the world, making it the ideal island-hopping bucket list spot for those who want to immerse themselves in multiple islands and cays. Visitors who experience the mainland, Marsh Harbour, can savour delicious cuisine at the local Fish Fry or head to Green Turtle Cay to experience the island’s historical itinerary stops, such as the Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden. For a picturesque view, add Elbow Cay to the list where one of the last standing manually operated  lighthouses in the world remains, or skip over to Man-O-War Cay, the ‘Boat-building capital of The Bahamas’, where visitors can experience first-hand the local boat-building shops.

Making a Difference with Coral Vita – Grand Bahama Island

The winner of the Duke of Cambridge’s Earthshot Prize in 2021 for its sustainability efforts, Coral Vita is a research and education centre that is quickly becoming a highly sought-after immersive experience on Grand Bahama Island. Coral Vita creates high-tech coral farms that incorporate breakthrough methods to restore reefs in the most effective way possible. The team partners with leading marine institutes, using techniques to grow coral up to 50 times faster while boosting their resiliency against the warming and acidifying oceans that threaten their survival. Coral fragments are then planted back into degraded reefs, restoring them back to life. Visitors can adopt a coral fragment to play their part in the fight against global warming or attend a tour which costs $15 per person. To learn more about the difference the farm is making, visit coralvita.co.

With 16 unique island destinations, there is a dream escape for everyone. To learn more about The Bahamas and to begin planning a tropical vacation, please visit bahamas.com.

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Anguilla Lifts Travel Authorization Requirements for Fully Vaccinated Visitors, Effective April 1st, 2022

The Valley, Anguilla, March 28, 2022:  Anguilla’s Ministry of Health has released new guidelines for Anguilla’s entry protocols, in accordance with their evolving COVID-19 Exit Strategy. The new guidelines will come into effect on Friday, April 1st, 2022.

  1. As of April 1st, 2022, all fully vaccinated travellers to Anguilla who are 18 years and older will no longer need to apply for permission to enter the island via the travel portal at IvisitAnguilla.com.  They will still need to present evidence of full vaccination status with an approved vaccine and a negative COVID-19 test; that is an NAA/PCR/RNA test taken within 3 days of travel or a rapid antigen test taken within 2 days of travel. This information must be presented to the aircraft, ship, agent or fixed based operator.
  2. The arrival testing will be discontinued for persons who have been fully vaccinated within the last six months, and for persons who have taken a booster dose where completion of the primary series (full vaccination) occurred six months or more prior to arrival; a valid negative test result must be presented pre-arrival.
  3. Vaccinated adults and minors, who were fully vaccinated with a complete primary course more than 6 months prior to arrival, but have NOT had a booster dose, are still considered fully vaccinated and will not need to apply for entry via the portal. They shall, however, be subject to testing on arrival, at their own expense and a valid negative prearrival test result must be presented. The testing fee is US$50.
  4. Unvaccinated visitors under 18 years old are only permitted to enter Anguilla if they are accompanied by fully vaccinated travellers. It should be noted that the exemption for pregnant women is removed given that several COVID-19 vaccines are now approved for use in pregnancy.
  5. Persons arriving into Anguilla without the appropriate documentation (proof of vaccination and test results) will be required to return to their country of origin; and if it is not possible to return, they shall complete arrival and exit tests, and quarantine for 5 days at their own expense. Each visitor that is allowed to quarantine shall pay the Government of Anguilla a fee of USD$200 in addition to any fines for unapproved entry.
  6. Unvaccinated visitors who have been granted a medical exemption will be required to apply on the entry portal, test on arrival, quarantine for 5 days and receive a negative test result to exit quarantine. Accordingly, the fee is USD$100 per person.

For information on Anguilla please visit the official website of the Anguilla Tourist Board: www.IvisitAnguilla.com; follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/AnguillaOfficial; Instagram: @Anguilla_Tourism; YouTube; Twitter: @Anguilla_Trsm, Hashtag: #MyAnguilla

Posted in: 2022 News, Blog, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Destination News

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CTO Scholarship Foundation to Fund Studies in Cybersecurity and Data Science

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (24 March 2022) – With real-time data increasingly being employed as a strategic asset for decision-makers in the travel and tourism industry, data science is becoming critical to researchers seeking to better understand and interpret information. At the same time, due to the large and valuable quantities of customer data gathered by tourism companies, the industry has become an attractive target for hackers and cybercriminals, making it essential for those involved in the sector to protect themselves and their customers against cyberattacks.

It’s in this context that the CTO Scholarship Foundation, the scholarship programme of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), has added cybersecurity and data science to the areas of study which it will fund this year. The foundation is also offering scholarships for Caribbean nationals seeking to enhance their skills in brand management and information technology, bringing to four, the number of new subjects of study which the charity will support.

The foundation is this year offering four scholarships of between US$3000 and US$5000, including the Audrey Palmer Hawks Memorial Scholarship (US$5000), Arley Sobers and Bonita Morgan memorial scholarships (both US$3000) and the Thomas J. Greenan scholarship (US$5000), which was introduced for the first time last year to provide financial support to Caribbean nationals pursuing qualification in agro/gastronomy-related subjects, community-based or sustainable tourism. Study grants of up to US$2000 are also being offered to Caribbean nationals seeking to improve their skills in any tourism-related field of study that will enhance the development of a sustainable tourism industry and boost service excellence in the region.

For further information about the scholarships, including criteria for qualification and how to apply, please visit http://ctofoundation.org/apply. Applications are currently being accepted and the deadline for submitting entries is Friday, 13 May 2022 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time. All applications must be submitted online at https://1.shortstack.com/vXt2ZJ. Applications will not be accepted via mail, email or fax.

The foundation selects individuals who demonstrate high levels of achievement and leadership both within and outside the classroom and who express a strong interest in making a positive contribution to Caribbean tourism.

About CTO Scholarship Foundation

The CTO Scholarship Foundation is a 501 (C)(3) entity established in 1997 with the aim of training and developing future leaders for the Caribbean tourism industry by funding studies in tourism and tourism-related subjects, hospitality and language. The objective is to ensure that the brightest and the best are attracted to careers in the sector or in areas that impact tourism, thereby helping to build a Caribbean tourism industry that is globally competitive and sustainable. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over US$1 million in scholarship funds and has provided over 280 grants and scholarships.

Posted in: 2022 News, Blog, Scholarship Foundation

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