How Caribbean Resorts Are Reacting To The Testing Requirements

Happy Hump Day! Back in February, I received a lot feedback about my 3-part email newsletter. Since the information is still relevant, I thought I’d convert them to blog posts. Today I’m sharing part one.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve received a ton of questions regarding mandatory COVID testing per CDC guidelines and how that affects 2021 vacations. I thought it would be a good idea for this month’s newsletter to adopt a Q&A format over a three-part series. Let’s get started!

*But first, how surreal are these over-the-water bungalows in Riviera Maya?*

Q. Where do I get tested while on vacation?

A. At your resort. A number of resorts throughout the Caribbean and Mexico are offering complementary testing for resort guests. Upon check-in, your hotel concierge will arrange your testing appointment based on your departure date. I am only quoting resorts that offer complimentary testing.

Q. What happens if I test negative?

A. Immediately find a swim-up bar and enjoy a Bahama Mama!

Q. What happens if I test positive?

A. The resorts have procedures in place to quarantine you and keep you as comfortable as possible.

Q. What happens if I test negative, but my significant other tests positive?

A. This depends on the resort. Generally one person in the party has to stay behind with the positive guest.

As part of my commitment to you, I am intentionally only quoting resorts with elevated cleaning protocols, that are offering complementary testing, and complementary or discounted extended rates in the event of a positive test.

*St. Lucia is one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever visited! How many shades of blue can you count?*

Q. Ebony, do you think this is the right time to travel?

A. This is highly subjective. Next month will mark one year since we have all been living with COVID. To answer this question, I have to analyze it from three different points of view.

As a human being, I grieve the losses and don’t understand the resistance to mask wearing.

As someone with a finance degree, my heart breaks for those in the travel industry, myself included! I spoke at length to resort employees in St. Lucia and Turks & Caicos recently, who were so grateful to be hosting people again. We must remember that these beautiful islands that dot the Caribbean Sea are third-world countries, whose citizens live below the poverty line. They depend almost entirely on tourism dollars. That lifeline came to a screeching halt for nearly a year. I understand all too well the socio-economic ramifications of that.

Finally, as a daughter/sister/friend, I miss my people. I haven’t seen my extended family in over a year. It’s hard.

So do I think its the right time to travel? If you are comfortable doing so, then yes! But do so safely!

Q. What does that mean?

A. Please wear your masks when required. Follow social distancing guidelines. I highly recommend getting tested before traveling to avoid any nasty surprises.

*The first time my daughter saw this resort in The Bahamas, she dubbed it The Pink Castle. Nearly a decade later, that’s still how we refer to it!*

I hope I’ve provided you with valuable information you can use in determining whether or not to book that vacation. Stay tuned for Part 2 coming soon!

This newsletter was sent on 2/24/2021. The information provided above is accurate as of today’s date. This is subject to change at any time.

How Caribbean Resorts Are Reacting To The Testing Requirements / Islands That Don’t Require Testing to Return Home / Will Cruising Return in 2021?

As a full-service travel agent, I would love to be of assistance to you. I am passionate about what I do and pour that energy into crafting perfectly planned itineraries for you. Email ebony@familytraveladventuresllc.com to learn more.