Bermuda will reopen to international air travel on July 1 - Time Out

As the Caribbean slowly comes out of lockdown this summer, Bermuda is the latest nation to announce its plan to reopen to tourism—with some strict new rules in place.

Bermuda will reopen to international air travel on July 1, but before arriving on the island, visitors will be required to obtain a certified negative PCR COVID-19 test within 72 hours of departure. Bermuda is also encouraging tourists to ensure they have appropriate health insurance, wear face masks and practice social distancing in the airport and in-flight. Upon arrival, travelers should continue to wear their face mask and practice physical distancing while vacationing. The same requirements when arriving in Bermuda apply to departure: A temperature check will be conducted pre-boarding if your destination jurisdiction requires it.

Wearing a mask on public transit while on the island is encouraged and bars and restaurants are also being reimagined for more spacious alfresco dining.

"Bermuda has always been a precious resource, set apart by its geographic location and vibrant way of life. Now more than ever, we believe travelers will value our genuine hospitality, pristine beaches and open spaces,” said Glenn Jones, Interim CEO of the Bermuda Tourism Authority. “The Bermuda government’s plan is rigorous: protecting the health of our community, while allowing visitors to experience our island safely and responsibly when they are ready to travel.”

Government officials are also finalizing a policy that will enable travelers who test negative 72 hours in advance and who also test negative upon arrival in Bermuda to have freedom of movement to enjoy the island’s experiences, adhering to local health guidelines in place at the time of visit.

As for the rest of the Caribbean, the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Lucia and Antigua are already open and Jamaica has announced a July 15 reopening date, while the Bahamas, Aruba and the Cayman Islands haven't announced official dates.