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Staying in the Know
With COVID-19 travel restrictions remaining fluid, we’ve compiled the latest updates on a range of Caribbean destinations, most of which require a PCR test prior to arrival.
“It’s important to check with the test site you are planning to use to find out in advance what the turn-around time is for processing results,” said Stiles Bennet, president of WIMCO Villas, which features updates on travel restrictions as a service for its clients and travel advisors.
Anguilla
Anguilla is an excellent vacation option for travelers in search of laid-back, upscale vacations featuring 33 gorgeous beaches and a generous roster of serious culinary options.
Requirements: PCR test is required within five days prior to arrival. Travelers will be tested upon arrival and again 10 days later.
Antigua and Barbuda
This dual-island national couples spectacular weather with such activities as hiking tours, snorkeling, catamaran cruise and swimming-with-stingrays experiences.
Requirements: A PCR test is required seven days prior to arrival. Travelers accommodated at non-certified properties must quarantine for 14 days.
Barbados
Although Barbados gained its independence from Great Britain in 1966, the island continues to maintain such British traditions as cricket and afternoon tea – but with a distinctly Caribbean style.
Requirements: An uploaded PCR test is required within three days prior to arrival. A second PCR test is required on day two or three after arrival.
British Virgin Islands
With its warm, steady trade winds, the BVI is one of the premier sailing destinations in the world. Comprising 60 pristine islands, its main islands are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and Anegada.
Requirements: A PCR test is required five days prior to arrival and quarantine for four days at travelers’ properties followed by a second test.
Cayman Islands
Renowned for superlative diving options, the Cayman Islands comprise three islands: Grand Cayman, which is the largest; Cayman Brac; and Little Cayman.
Requirements: At this time, only approved travelers are permitted to enter the country. Upon arrival, travelers will undergo a PCR test at the airport and must quarantine for a minimum of 14 days.
Dominican Republic
Featuring some of the world’s prettiest beaches, the Dominican Republic is renowned for its lively Latin culture and wealth of resorts for all types of travelers.
Requirements: No testing is required for entry.
Jamaica
The birthplace of reggae, Jamaica offers travelers a generous roster of resort options and a gorgeous landscape, including verdant mountains, pristine beaches and rainforests.
Requirements: A PCR or Antigen test is required 10 days prior to arrival. Visitors are restricted to the island’s “Resilient Corridors.”
Mustique
A private island set in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Mustique features tranquil beaches and an eclectic array of activities, including sailing, snorkeling and scuba diving.
Requirements: A PCR test is required five days prior to arrival. A second test is required upon entry, with no quarantine if results are negative. Travelers are required to spend five nights on the island before traveling internationally.
St. Barts
This chic, French Caribbean island offers travelers 14 gorgeous beaches, all of which are open to the public, along with excellent culinary options and a happening nightlife.
Requirements: PCR or Antigen tests required three days prior to arrival.
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts, the bigger of the two-island federation, houses the larger share of resorts, restaurants and activities. Nevis offers a much quieter travel experience, with pristine, uncrowded beaches.
Requirements: PCR test required for entry three days prior to arrival. Travelers must stay in one of the islands’ approved accommodations for the first 14 days. Those staying less than 14 days are required to take a test 72 hours prior to departure.
St Martin/Sint Maarten
French St. Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten share a 37-mile island and offer visitors two very distinct experiences. Charming St. Martin features a quieter experience with a focus on culinary offerings, while bustling Sint Maarten is highlighted by its casinos, bars and clubs.
Requirements: A PCR or Antigen test is required five days prior to arrival.
Turks & Caicos
The destination’s main island, Providenciales, is home to gorgeous Grace Bay Beach and resorts, shops and restaurants, and its north shore features a 14-mile barrier reef for scuba divers.
Requirements: A PRC test is required within five of departure.
US Virgin Islands
This U.S. territory comprises three main islands, St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas, all of which provide visitors with distinct travel experiences. It also includes 50 smaller islands., cays and islets.
Requirements: A PCR test required within five days of departure.
By Claudette Covey of Travel Pulse Published December 10, 2020