During this initial phase of reopening, tourists in Belize are free to explore. However, they are encouraged to vacation inside its Tourism Safe Corridor. But what exactly is Belize’s Tourism Safe Corridor and what does that mean? As the entire overnight tourism sector moves towards “Tourism Gold Standard” Recognition—denoted with a seal of approval—those within the Safe Corridor are recommended in Belize’s Phase 3. And Belize’s Safe Corridor just got expanded! Here’s what that means.
What’s Inside Belize’s Safe Corridor
Previously, tourists were limited to remain on property of their Gold Standard hotel (with the exception of tours/activities) for the entire duration of their trip. Now, effective Monday, Oct. 19, Belize’s Tourism Safe Corridor will relax, allowing for increased freedom of movement to other Gold Standard approved businesses. This includes external gift shops, restaurants, and tourism sites. While you are staying inside Belize’s Safe Corridor is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended.
Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Dean Barrow also outlines car rentals will be included within this ease of restrictions, allowing travelers to rent a vehicle from an airport provider; traveler will need to submit an itinerary to adhere to, alongside a GPS device. Additionally, depending on the restaurant’s square footage, more than ten persons will be allowed inside a restaurant once social distancing is observed; reservations of the same party are limited to ten persons.
Visiting Belize
Caye Caulker, Belize. Photo by Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock
Although testing negative for COVID-19 is an entry requirement for Belize, all travelers—now including residents and citizens—have two options. While pre-testing within 72 hours of travel to Belize with a PCR Test is strongly recommended, it is not mandatory. Instead, those without access can test on arrival inside Belize’s airport health clinic for a double rapid test, at the traveler’s expense. Although rapid test results take roughly 30 minutes to process, travelers arriving with a PCR pre-test can access the ‘fast track’ lane inside the airport. If positive, travelers will need to quarantine at their own expense until cleared negative. Additionally, all travelers must download the Belize Travel Health App and tourists must book with a Gold Standard hotel.
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Travel regulations and requirements are subject to change as new developments in COVID-19 arise. It is important to visit www.travelbelize.org/health-safety before booking travel or visiting Belize.
