The Caribbean islands of Turks and Caicos are implementing new testing requirements and capacity limits on places like restaurants as the destination continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. By Alison Fox
New regulations in Turks and Caicos
The new rules, which will remain in place through at least February 28, will require all visitors aged rwo and older to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of travel, according to the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board. Previously, only children 10 and older had to get tested before arrival.
Travellers 16 and older are also required to show proof of vaccination to enter, and visitors must complete a health screening questionnaire. Travellers must also have medical or travel insurance that would cover medevac if needed.
“These updated protocols are a proactive response to the Omicron variant and underscore the destination’s commitment to health and safety, expanding on its already vigilant travel protocols… [implemented] when Turks and Caicos opened its borders to tourists,” the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board told T+L in a statement.
In addition to changing the entry protocols, Turks and Caicos will require anyone 16 or older to be fully vaccinated or show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 24 hours to enter restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and discotheques.
The islands have also placed restrictions on restaurants and bars, limiting capacity to 50 percent.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently classified Turks and Caicos as a “Level 4” destination, indicating a “very high” level of COVID-19 transmission in the community. Currently, the islands are experiencing an average of 33 new infections reported each day, according to Reuters, a decline from earlier in the month.
Those who do plan a trip to the islands should consider going between April and June to maximise their chances of having good weather (though there’s never really a bad time to visit paradise).
Related: Planning Your Future Holiday? Check Out This Turks And Caicos Travel Guide
This story first appeared on www.travelandleisure.com
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