Anguilla all set for phase 2 reopening
November 1 marks the beginning of phase two reopening for Anguilla as confirmed by the Ministry of Tourism.
“It’s a controlled reopening,” said Tourism Minister Haydn Hughes on Caribbean Tourism Organization’s virtual interview.
In June 2020, the island was categorized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “COVID-19 free”. Anguilla currently has the classification of “No Travel Health Notice: Very Low Risk for COVID-19” from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
To date, there are no active or suspected cases on the island, and to ensure that this remains the case, there is no change to the entry requirements. HUghes noted that strict protocols will continuously be observed
A negative test result obtained three to five days prior to arrival along with travel health insurance that covers COVID-related treatment is required, and all visitors will be given a PCR test on arrival.
Hotel spas aren’t open and there’s no indoor dining, but about 3,000 rooms are available in hotels, villas and rental properties.
Meanwhile, select activities such as scuba diving, golf or deep-sea fishing can be undertaken by guests away from their hotels, but they can only be done as part of a coordinated tour or activity.
“If you come to Anguilla and stay at one of our properties you can play golf, you can still leave the property, not on your own but through certified ground transportation and you must ensure those bookings are done. ..everything is by bookings, everything is managed,” Hughes said.
He added that workers at bus transportation companies and tour boats also have been trained in proper health and safety practices.
Visitors can also move around the island without face mask as such the wearing of masks in public is not mandatory on the island.
“I don’t believe we have any significant risks,” Hughes said.
The government reassured, however, that the island has a surplus of masks in the event that they are needed. Moreso, a tourism sensitisation programme with all service providers will be held to ensure everyone is COVID-19 ready.
Travel Applications are being accepted online at the Anguilla Tourist Board’s website.