There is understandably some growing concern about stagnation of the as-yet-frail tourism economy recovery that started since the island opened back up to commercial flights. Due to continued rising COVID-19 in its main market the US, travelling to and from the destination is not becoming any easier.
In addition to requiring a PCR test within 72 hours of their return, Americans are now being asked to quarantine afterwards and advised to stay away from high-risk family members for 14 days. If they engaged in “high-risk activities” while abroad the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC recommends another test after three to four days and staying home for a week even if the result is negative.
For its part, St. Maarten announced last Wednesday that effective February 12 incoming US passengers will again need a PCR result within 72 hours prior to departure, no longer five days. That too could have a less-than-positive impact on air arrivals.
However, efforts are being made to help guests meet the tightened demands, such as the opening of a testing facility at Simpson Bay Resort. At the same time, although some recent increases occurred in active local coronavirus cases, they still appear to be fluctuating and there have so far been no reports of the British or other new variants like – for example – in Aruba.
The “Friendly Island” can therefore be considered a relatively safe place to visit compared to many other vacation spots. Important is that everyone consistently follow the pandemic-related protocols and try to keep it that way.
