Whilst the United States has tightened their travel restrictions, some Americans are eager to use their passports and travel to the Caribbean again after nearly a year of lockdowns and staying at home. In response, Caribbean countries are working on the delicate balance of keeping their citizens safe, while keeping an industry afloat of which the economy depends on. Rapid arrival and departure testing alongside designated lists of hotels and tourism offerings are all part of this effort to keep both visitors and locals safe. Now, Belize waives entry test requirement for fully vaccinated, immunized travelers too.
So which Caribbean countries are the safest to visit? This USA Today article, first published on February 3, outlines Caribbean destinations open to Americans where new COVID-19 cases are declining and in the low-three-digit range (or lower) per day for the past month. In addition, the article cites the travel advisory level from the U.S. State Department and CDC. The latter has classified many countries as Level 4, citing a high risk of COVID-19.
Here is U.S.A. TODAY’s summary on Belize:
Take a test at the John Grief Airport (SPR) before departing at Maya’s onsite testing clinic. Photo courtesy Caring Hands Clinic
Are there places to get tested before returning to the USA?
Yes, the U.S. Embassy reports that results come back reliably within 72 hours. It lists several labs that provide same-day rapid test results and the cost for each. Find a testing clinic closest to you, sorted by destination, here.
Other Entry Requirements
Visitors must book their stays at state-approved Gold Standard accommodation. Additionally, visitors must download and complete the Belize Health app in the 72 hours before travel. Those without immunization (including those fully vaccinated against COVID-19) must present a COVID-19 test taken within 96 hours of travel or take a COVID-19 test on entry.
CDC Travel Advisory Threat Level
4 (very high), last updated February 2, 2021.
State Department Travel Advisory Level
3 (reconsider travel), last updated February 2, 2021.
Current Situation
COVID-19 infections are decreasing in Belize, with 5 new infections reported on average each day as of March 15, 2021. At 8 new average infections per 100k people, that’s 1% of Belize’s peak — the highest daily average reported on December 8. Get the latest data from the WHO here.
Other Caribbean countries included in this list include Aruba, the Bahamas, Bermuda and Jamaica.
Read the Full Article from USA Today Here
We recognize travel restrictions and advice can change rapidly. Therefore for the latest advice, visit the official Belize Tourism website at TravelBelize.org. This article was originally published on February 8, and updated with latest statistics and entry requirements on March 15, 2021.
Header photo via Benedict Kim/Esoteric Vision
