Two years after the start of the pandemic, the Caribbean island of Aruba is lifting all remaining travel restrictions related to COVID-19. It no longer requires a negative coronavirus test or proof of vaccination to enter. “Since March 18 we open for everyone, no need for negative PRC or vaccination card. We made a big step. In the entire world there are only twenty-five countries that allow you to enter without restrictions. And if we talk about Caribbean islands, there are only four”, endorses Jordan Schlipken Croes, Business Development Manager of Aruba for Latin America.
“This is not due to negligence, nor because we want people to come and we are tired of it. Aruba has been working on this process for 2 years. The Island is more than 90% vaccinated with two doses, and we see that we are already close to being endemic in the case of Covid,” adds Schlipken Croes. Previously, tourists were allowed to enter only with a negative coronavirus test, proof of full vaccination, or proof of recovery. But still visitors insurance is required (which is around 15 dollars but covers all expenses in case you have to extend the stay if the PCR for the return required by another country is positive), and all travelers must complete a card before arrival.
The Aruba Tourism Authority statement explained that the health care systems and tourism industry “will monitor the current environment and changing conditions to determine how to further adapt, if necessary.” the island is one of the destinations that are beginning to reverse restrictions traveling due to coronavirus in the face of the busy summer tourism season in the northern hemisphere.
“We have 50% American tourists, 7% Latinos, and the rest are Europeans, mainly from the Netherlands. From Latin America, 50% are Colombians, and a good portion of the rest are Argentines (Ndr: que arrive with combinations through Panama, Bogotá or Miami) who usually stay more than 10 nights on average”, details Schlipken Croes.
In this way, Aruba endorses its motto of “happy island”, ready to offer its virgin beaches for disconnection, but also a wide range of luxury hotels and restaurants. “There are more than 200 tourist restaurants, and we have several Michelin-starred chefs. And on the beach side there is something for all tastes. We have natural pools, but there are also beaches for surfing, and 100% can be visited, they are public”, they clarify from the Aruba Tourism Authority, whose model and advanced model is imitated in the world.
Canadian officials announced last Thursday that the country would waive its coronavirus test requirement before departure for fully vaccinated travelers from April 1. Similarly, New Zealand this week announced plans to reopen to international tourists vaccinated in May, and South Korea is set to lift its quarantine requirement for vaccinated travelers next month.
by RN
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