Barbados, the Jewel of the Caribbean, announced the implementation of new travel protocols for Ireland and the UK, effective 1st October 2020, which will remain in place over the next two weeks. The spikes in COVID 19 cases have shifted Ireland and the UK into the ‘high risk’ category level relative to entry into Barbados.
The new travel protocols at a glance require:
- All travellers to have a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival.
- After arrival on the Island, visitors will take a second PCR test. Tests can be done free of charge at any Government health care facility or for a fee at private healthcare facilities. There are also mobile services available to make it easy for guests to have options. The test is administered between day 4 to 5 after taking the first test in Ireland or the UK. Test results in Barbados are usually returned overnight without any challenges.
- While awaiting the second test, visitors will have restricted movement and remain on the grounds of their hotel, resort or villa.
Senator the Hon. Lisa R. Cummins, the Minister of Tourism and International Transport for Barbados, comments:
“It is our commitment that our visitors, many of whom are like family to us, are able to enjoy a reprieve from the challenges in their own countries by being safe in Barbados. At the same time, Barbadians are known for our hospitality so we want to ensure that our citizens welcome all our guests to the island with a high level of confidence because we have put measures in place at the border for all our visitors.”
“When you get here, testing services are easily accessible, our health care professionals are here to help take great care of you, even if you become unwell. Our hotel sector has completely transformed their amazing properties to ensure that our guests enjoy their time with us. Even though there is a public health consideration, our hospitality sector, including restaurants and attractions are rolling out the red carpet because they are just so happy to have our guests back. For the peace of mind that you are safe, Barbados is definitely worth it!”
“Since we introduced the pre-testing requirements it has been overwhelming how our guests have responded. People want to be confident that they are sitting on a plane with other passengers who have also tested negative for COVD 19, are observing the masking, sanitisation and social distancing protocols and make others around them feel safe. When they get to Barbados, they want the confidence then that they are in a place where they can relax safely and after a brief period in one of our hotels, resorts or villas, enjoy full access to all the island has to offer. We are able to offer that level of safety and confidence to our travellers and guests because of these measures which balance public health and safety with leisure and travel.”
Who wouldn’t want to be here to enjoy our stunning beaches and enjoy a rum punch overlooking the beautiful sunsets on our Island home, which is without question a low risk travel destination. We are very excited to welcome you here!’
For more information on travel to Barbados, visit visitbarbados.org, follow on Facebook at facebook.com/VisitBarbados, via Twitter @Barbados
For more information on Barbados, please contact: Niamh Waters, niamh@travelmedia.ie, +353 06 0492394
NOTES TO EDITORS:
The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue to closely monitor the situation. More updates on Barbados’ response to COVID-19 and updated protocols can be found at www.barbadostravelprotocols.com.
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