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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235187
09/22/2020 09:06 AM
09/22/2020 09:06 AM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267 Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
tpcook
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267
Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
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further information is needed as to whether the ferries to/from STT will be operational. NO quarantine as this would be a deal breaker. Probably would require covid free incoming paperwork and probably testing at the airport/ports.
Last edited by tpcook; 09/22/2020 09:07 AM.
tpcook
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: GeorgeC1]
#235201
09/22/2020 09:55 AM
09/22/2020 09:55 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457 Finger Lake Region
crmoores
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457
Finger Lake Region
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They are not going to get bookings without a detailed plan. “They”?
"Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.” -Anthony Bourdain
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235204
09/22/2020 10:23 AM
09/22/2020 10:23 AM
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Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,392 Maryland
Kirk
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,392
Maryland
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I'm not holding my breath.
Kirk in Maryland
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235237
09/22/2020 01:44 PM
09/22/2020 01:44 PM
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 790 Kannapolis, NC
ndfaninnc
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 790
Kannapolis, NC
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For me the reopening date means nothing. And I know we do not have enough information yet. But for me, wearing a mask for 7-9 hours of airport and flight times is a deal breaker. I am not condemning anyone wanting to wear a mask. That is your choice. I just have a real hard time wearing one. A few minutes here and there, yes. But not hours at a time. As some have said, the vaccine will be the answer. I don't agree with that. We have a vaccine for the flu that only works for a percentage of the population. I am not confident a vaccine for this virus will work for everyone. I hope I am wrong. I am avoiding the political part so Ms. Carol does not have to slap my hand. We have given up on 2020 and hoping things are back to previous normal in the spring.
Go Irish!! Bill
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: ndfaninnc]
#235241
09/22/2020 02:01 PM
09/22/2020 02:01 PM
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Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 559 Apex, NC
agrimsrud
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 559
Apex, NC
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For me the reopening date means nothing. And I know we do not have enough information yet. But for me, wearing a mask for 7-9 hours of airport and flight times is a deal breaker. I am not condemning anyone wanting to wear a mask. That is your choice. I just have a real hard time wearing one. A few minutes here and there, yes. But not hours at a time. As some have said, the vaccine will be the answer. I don't agree with that. We have a vaccine for the flu that only works for a percentage of the population. I am not confident a vaccine for this virus will work for everyone. I hope I am wrong. I am avoiding the political part so Ms. Carol does not have to slap my hand. We have given up on 2020 and hoping things are back to previous normal in the spring. Not sure what you are suggesting. You indicate you don't have any confidence that a vaccine will work and you don't want to wear a mask. Yet you are thinking things will be "back to previous normal" in the spring. So I'm curious how you think we're getting back to some level of normal by spring time - what will change by then?
Life's short - sail more!
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: ndfaninnc]
#235243
09/22/2020 02:18 PM
09/22/2020 02:18 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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For me the reopening date means nothing. And I know we do not have enough information yet. But for me, wearing a mask for 7-9 hours of airport and flight times is a deal breaker. I am not condemning anyone wanting to wear a mask. That is your choice. I just have a real hard time wearing one. A few minutes here and there, yes. But not hours at a time. As some have said, the vaccine will be the answer. I don't agree with that. We have a vaccine for the flu that only works for a percentage of the population. I am not confident a vaccine for this virus will work for everyone. I hope I am wrong. I am avoiding the political part so Ms. Carol does not have to slap my hand. We have given up on 2020 and hoping things are back to previous normal in the spring. I suspect masks are a part of airline travel for a very long time. I can assure you, the BVI Government is not letting up on masks anytime soon.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: agrimsrud]
#235255
09/22/2020 03:56 PM
09/22/2020 03:56 PM
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 790 Kannapolis, NC
ndfaninnc
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 790
Kannapolis, NC
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For me the reopening date means nothing. And I know we do not have enough information yet. But for me, wearing a mask for 7-9 hours of airport and flight times is a deal breaker. I am not condemning anyone wanting to wear a mask. That is your choice. I just have a real hard time wearing one. A few minutes here and there, yes. But not hours at a time. As some have said, the vaccine will be the answer. I don't agree with that. We have a vaccine for the flu that only works for a percentage of the population. I am not confident a vaccine for this virus will work for everyone. I hope I am wrong. I am avoiding the political part so Ms. Carol does not have to slap my hand. We have given up on 2020 and hoping things are back to previous normal in the spring. Not sure what you are suggesting. You indicate you don't have any confidence that a vaccine will work and you don't want to wear a mask. Yet you are thinking things will be "back to previous normal" in the spring. So I'm curious how you think we're getting back to some level of normal by spring time - what will change by then? I did not say I don't have confidence a vaccine will work. I said I don't believe it will work for everyone. You twisted my words. I also said I "hope" things will be back to normal in the spring. Again, you twisted my words. I am permitted to have hope, correct? Do I believe things will change much by spring? No. But I can certainly hope.
Go Irish!! Bill
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: JasonHelmbrecht]
#235256
09/22/2020 03:57 PM
09/22/2020 03:57 PM
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 790 Kannapolis, NC
ndfaninnc
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 790
Kannapolis, NC
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For me the reopening date means nothing. And I know we do not have enough information yet. But for me, wearing a mask for 7-9 hours of airport and flight times is a deal breaker. I am not condemning anyone wanting to wear a mask. That is your choice. I just have a real hard time wearing one. A few minutes here and there, yes. But not hours at a time. As some have said, the vaccine will be the answer. I don't agree with that. We have a vaccine for the flu that only works for a percentage of the population. I am not confident a vaccine for this virus will work for everyone. I hope I am wrong. I am avoiding the political part so Ms. Carol does not have to slap my hand. We have given up on 2020 and hoping things are back to previous normal in the spring. I suspect masks are a part of airline travel for a very long time. I can assure you, the BVI Government is not letting up on masks anytime soon. Can't say I disagree Jason. Just hoping.
Go Irish!! Bill
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235260
09/22/2020 04:18 PM
09/22/2020 04:18 PM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267 Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
tpcook
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267
Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
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I am ready to buy tickets to go to my villa early in Dec. However so many questions still are in play. I need to travel with 200 lbs of things for the villa,I want to fly Miami- STT so now I need an inexpensive ferry to/from the BVI. no quarantine for sure so i can go to town to buy things. So many questions, so few answers yet.
Last edited by tpcook; 09/22/2020 04:19 PM.
tpcook
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: beeradley]
#235261
09/22/2020 04:22 PM
09/22/2020 04:22 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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So we have a charter Dec 4th. This is cutting it super close, and clearly we will know more in the coming 6 weeks. Whatever the health requirements are, we will do them. However, it would be super helpful knowing what will be open. It would be amazing if the local businesses in BVI could start a forum like they did after the hurricanes stating who is opening and when. By December 4th, you will have no issues with things being open. Most places are open now including many establishments that normally close in September. The only exceptions I can think of are on JVD and Anegada but by December they will all be open and excited to greet guests!
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: bagsarepacked]
#235333
09/23/2020 05:39 PM
09/23/2020 05:39 PM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267 Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
tpcook
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267
Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
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I have shipped thousands of lbs of materials to the BVI using Source Logistics in Maimi. Also use Aeropost marine which goes by ship. Always looking for a "better way" Have also shipped several 40 ft containers (about 9k per container) Also a couple of suv's
Last edited by tpcook; 09/23/2020 05:51 PM.
tpcook
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: RatmansWife]
#235334
09/23/2020 05:43 PM
09/23/2020 05:43 PM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267 Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
tpcook
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267
Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
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Right now AA does not charge for a flight change , so I can use the "ticket" for another flight. Very low rates right now. Like $136 one way. from Miami. Unless the government allows ferries to/from STT then the opening up will be useless.
Last edited by tpcook; 09/23/2020 05:44 PM.
tpcook
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235342
09/23/2020 09:28 PM
09/23/2020 09:28 PM
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,657 Memphis, BVI, CT
RatmansWife
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,657
Memphis, BVI, CT
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As of now, the only entry point is Beef Island, and everyone who has returned (legally) has come through there. They have enough room there to segregate people coming in. I'm guessing they will require a Covid fast test on arrival. Where would they segregate and test everyone coming off a ferry? Maybe if they switched the ferries to the cruise pier. For now, Beef Island it is, and I don't have a problem with that.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: Winterstale]
#235346
09/23/2020 11:01 PM
09/23/2020 11:01 PM
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 143 Folsom Lake, CA
Latadjust
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 143
Folsom Lake, CA
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I am happy to find a flight from STT to Beef if that is what we’ll need to do. I am guessing VI Airlink is my best bet??
Anyone have any thoughts about how to get BACK to STT for our return? We’re staying at Emerald Beach the night before.... This is now top of mind for me...is it "You can check in but you can't check out?"
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: Winterstale]
#235355
09/24/2020 07:45 AM
09/24/2020 07:45 AM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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Anyone have any thoughts about how to get BACK to STT for our return? We’re staying at Emerald Beach the night before.... There is testing available on Tortola for travel purposes but I think it was around $135. It would work if you were land based on Tortola but if you're chartering you'd have to plan a day on Tortola about 3 days before you leave so the logistics would be tough. Maybe we need to offer a special TTOL rate for Testing Time here at Coconut Breeze Villas. There are worse places to wait a few days for test results...
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235358
09/24/2020 08:12 AM
09/24/2020 08:12 AM
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Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 5,861 Bradenton, FL
Winterstale
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 5,861
Bradenton, FL
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Easy enough to get the boat into CGB and get a test done on island somewhere if need be....we are on her 10 days.
Last edited by Winterstale; 09/24/2020 08:14 AM.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: tpcook]
#235373
09/24/2020 10:17 AM
09/24/2020 10:17 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,557 Toronto, Ontario
gordaguy2
Traveler
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Traveler
Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,557
Toronto, Ontario
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Hi Thorsten - we use Tamarind out of ft lauderdale - they are a less than contairner load shipper - goods delivered on thrusday are in VG by tuesday the following week - we have all our villa purchases of things like stoves sent there and have had a zero loss rate. cheers Brian
GordaGuy2
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: beeradley]
#235402
09/24/2020 02:01 PM
09/24/2020 02:01 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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SusanZ...Totally get that. Especially right now. Just thinking in the weeks to come any info regarding who's open would obviously dictate our itinerary when we get there on Dec 4th. Looking forward to seeing your beautiful islands for the first time! In a normal year, everyone starts opening mid-October. Since we've all been without income for many months, everything I can imagine will be open by December 4th. Do you have something in mind you're concerned about? I can ask around if I know what types of places you're think of.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: SusanZ]
#235444
09/25/2020 11:10 AM
09/25/2020 11:10 AM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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Jason-- well it largely depends on restrictions, We are all assuming its a full opening. But is it?I really don't know. Assuming there are charter yacht guests, Foxy's will definitely be opening. We found it comical when tourist board would call us back in April/May and as us when we were opening. Our confusion mainly has to do with the types of activities \we can host, how to market events responsibly and how to execute them. Most things on JVD, Foxy's included is open air so I feel like social distancing won't be overly difficult but it still poses some challenges. We get tons of calls about NYE but really have no idea if we can have the party or what that will look like.
Great point on restrictions. I sure wish we knew more! Since the OP is a charter guest, I guess I was answering based on charter boats operating. Assuming that's true, I can't think of much that would be closed. Even the smaller inside places like Banana's in CGB are already open. Around CGB, the only things I can think of currently closed are Quito's (opening soon) and Bananakeet. Even Anegada has lots of places already open and the rest will certainly open assuming there are charter guests.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: Latadjust]
#235445
09/25/2020 11:39 AM
09/25/2020 11:39 AM
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Joined: May 2004
Posts: 850 Manhattan Beach, CA
calsail
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 850
Manhattan Beach, CA
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"You can check in but you can't check out?"
There has to be a song in there somewhere.
Where is LandCrab when we need him?
Last edited by calsail; 09/25/2020 11:40 AM.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: calsail]
#235448
09/25/2020 01:38 PM
09/25/2020 01:38 PM
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 143 Folsom Lake, CA
Latadjust
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 143
Folsom Lake, CA
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"You can check in but you can't check out?"
There has to be a song in there somewhere.
Where is LandCrab when we need him? Eagles? That ad for the Roach Hotel? Maybe clicking one's heels three times will do the trick.....oh, wait that's from some movie!
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: GeorgeC1]
#235451
09/25/2020 02:30 PM
09/25/2020 02:30 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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Anyone hearing when the BVI will actually publish the rules to enter and exit. If it’s just the airport it will slow things quite a bit. Airfare for the week before Xmas is 304 to STT and 1000 plus to EIS. G With change fees being waived, I would highly recommend changing tickets to SJU where the flights to EIS are more plentiful and less expensive. They won't last long but there are options....
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: GeorgeC1]
#235452
09/25/2020 02:55 PM
09/25/2020 02:55 PM
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Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,421 Bucks County, Pa.
toast
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,421
Bucks County, Pa.
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I sometimes try SJU and then a small airline to Beef. I can usually do points to SJU , then pay a premium for the short flight over, but overall not terrible. I just had to cancel my November plans in which i paid 400 RT SJU to Beef, but my NYC to SJU was non stop and points only.... Hope I can something similar when I rebook my charter.... after 4 cancelled Vaca's this year, I am not rebooking until January when i see what has transpired after a months time open. Hoping not like USVI that shut back down for a little while.
Toast.......to Life; White Bay...heaven on earth. Diane
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235744
09/29/2020 02:07 PM
09/29/2020 02:07 PM
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Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,032 GA/NC
GeorgeC1
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,032
GA/NC
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The CDC has released some new Covid 19 data. Hopefully it will help the BVI government in their decision to reopen. The new numbers are in line with the flu. Just booked a 16 Dec trip! G
The US Center for Disease Control (CDC) has released an update to their research on the fatality rate associated with COVID-19. The CDC first posted this data on May 20, 2020, with the understanding that the parameter values would be updated and augmented over time. This update, dated September 10th, is based on data received by CDC through August 8, 2020.
A quick summary of COVID-19 survival rates is shown below. The summary is based on the CDC table provided at the end of this report.
CDC COVID-19 Survival Rates
Age 0-19 — 99.997% Age 20-49 — 99.98% Age 50-69 — 99.5% Age 70+ — 94.6%
Last edited by GeorgeC1; 09/29/2020 02:20 PM.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: GeorgeC1]
#235752
09/29/2020 04:52 PM
09/29/2020 04:52 PM
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Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 141 West Virgina
jrw
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 141
West Virgina
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I saw those last week.
I'm VERY comfortable getting back to a normal life with those odds!!!
However, the BVI and any country, obviously will do what they do...???
Last edited by jrw; 09/29/2020 04:59 PM. Reason: spelling
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: agrimsrud]
#235764
09/29/2020 07:52 PM
09/29/2020 07:52 PM
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 583 Oak Park, IL
TomGarvey
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 583
Oak Park, IL
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Johns Hopkins, whose data is beyond the influence of elected officials, has the US COVID death rate at 2.9%. The flu fatality rate over many years averages 0.1%. Unless you believe in conspiracy theories, this is different than the flu. https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/data/mortality
Tom Garvey
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: TomGarvey]
#235769
09/29/2020 08:16 PM
09/29/2020 08:16 PM
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Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,724 Central Florida!
Carol_Hill
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,724
Central Florida!
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This has NOTHING to do with the BVI.. As stated previously, this is not the place to quote all these various Covid stats. Plenty of places to do that other than here.
Carol Hill
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235781
09/30/2020 08:40 AM
09/30/2020 08:40 AM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267 Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
tpcook
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267
Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
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Still waiting for the BVI to get their act together and publish all the fine print to the dec 1 opening. I have tickets on AA that day to STT. It's about time that they stop worrying about midwifes and go to the more important issues like their economy. Also stop the fighting with the governor.. it's ridiculous.
This morning the premier has written to the UN about the governor bringing in the UK military ship and wants the UN to intervene. Seems to me lots of issues are being brought up to hide the mismanagement going on.
Premier Andrew Fahie has put Britain on notice that he will be escalating to the United Nations what he described as an “act of aggression” by Governor Augustus Jaspert towards his government
Last edited by tpcook; 09/30/2020 08:57 AM.
tpcook
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: Fun in the sun]
#235798
09/30/2020 12:19 PM
09/30/2020 12:19 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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We are flying in on 12-02-20 for a 12 day charter and are counting the days. If anyone is concerned about the Ferry service they may want to look into a private water taxi. We use Ocean Dreams and they are first class. They have a 39 foot center console with 1200 horse power that is a blast. Unless they open the ports for ferries, water taxis will most likely not be able to operate.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: JasonHelmbrecht]
#235800
09/30/2020 12:39 PM
09/30/2020 12:39 PM
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Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,724 Central Florida!
Carol_Hill
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,724
Central Florida!
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Jason--that's what I was thinking.. As of now, I really think people need to be thinking about flying into EIS, as booking air into STT right now seems very risky, unless you can CANCEL and get your money back. I haven't been following it that closely, but I think most airlines are allowing changes without change fees still, but what happens if the new fare is LESS than the old one?? Say that one decides to just fly into SJU and purchase a different ticket onward? If that ticket costs less than your original flight to STT, will you get money back?
Carol Hill
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235803
09/30/2020 12:57 PM
09/30/2020 12:57 PM
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Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 1,901 Maine
Breeze
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 1,901
Maine
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There are lots of moving parts, but there won't be any boat traffic between the USVI and the BVI unless Customs and Immigration is re-activated in ports and harbors. Throughout the Covid-19 " lockdown" the only C&I ( point of entry) was EIS. It will be some more " wait and see" before we know how any testing/extra questions/required documentation at entry to the country will be handled.
Yeah, everyone is sick and tired of wait-and-see. It's called Island Time or " soon come". Part of what we go there to love and experience.
.
Last edited by Breeze; 09/30/2020 12:59 PM.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: Carol_Hill]
#235809
09/30/2020 01:11 PM
09/30/2020 01:11 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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Jason--that's what I was thinking.. As of now, I really think people need to be thinking about flying into EIS, as booking air into STT right now seems very risky, unless you can CANCEL and get your money back. I haven't been following it that closely, but I think most airlines are allowing changes without change fees still, but what happens if the new fare is LESS than the old one?? Say that one decides to just fly into SJU and purchase a different ticket onward? If that ticket costs less than your original flight to STT, will you get money back? There is an alternative to fly to STT and use VI Airlink to get to EIS. Looking at a random day in mid-January, it looks like they have 2 flights/day planned; 9:50am and 4:00pm. $151 per person.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: Carol_Hill]
#235818
09/30/2020 01:47 PM
09/30/2020 01:47 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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Jason--OK, thanks for that correction. Your idea of flying to SJU is still the best option and is what we're recommending to anyone booking rooms before February. Many more flight options from SJU. From what I can tell, the VI Airlink flight only carries 9 passengers so not much capacity but if you're locked into STT for some reason it's an option.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: Carol_Hill]
#235826
09/30/2020 02:41 PM
09/30/2020 02:41 PM
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 966 Middleburg, VA
cwoody
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Posts: 966
Middleburg, VA
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If that ticket costs less than your original flight to STT, will you get money back?
Carol, We canceled our June flights and got UA credit. We rebooked for January on UA for $200 less per ticket. That left over credit is still out there and we have two years to use it. That will not be a problem.
Chuck W.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: cwoody]
#235829
09/30/2020 02:47 PM
09/30/2020 02:47 PM
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Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,724 Central Florida!
Carol_Hill
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,724
Central Florida!
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OK, I figure it depends on the airline, as to what they are doing NOW, for people booking now.. I would always also prefer my money back, versus a credit, but we don't fly that often either.
Carol Hill
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: MIDiver]
#235855
09/30/2020 05:31 PM
09/30/2020 05:31 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
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Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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We just got off the phone with Air Sunshine. They relayed that their agents have been informed that the border opening may be pushed back to December 15 and are therefore not booking any flights before that date. Oh no. Can anyone confirm this? Haven't heard anything locally yet but we are due for a curfew update today or tomorrow so maybe we'll hear more then.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: JasonHelmbrecht]
#235856
09/30/2020 05:33 PM
09/30/2020 05:33 PM
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Joined: Jun 2020
Posts: 1,154
MIDiver
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Posts: 1,154
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235888
10/01/2020 08:33 AM
10/01/2020 08:33 AM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267 Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
tpcook
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Traveler
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Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
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If they move the date to Dec 15 you can kiss the tourist season goodbye completely. Folks are getting tired of all the political issues in the BVI. It is truly tiring and frustrating. I really feel for the people that live in the BVI to have to go thru this harassment.
tpcook
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#235927
10/01/2020 11:35 AM
10/01/2020 11:35 AM
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,657 Memphis, BVI, CT
RatmansWife
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,657
Memphis, BVI, CT
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If it does change, we'll be the first ones in! We're on a red eye, connecting on the early morning Cape Air flight on the 15th. Jason is bang on - they need to focus on the re-opening, and stop squabbling with the U.K. If we can't come without quarantine, we'll cancel.
My prediction months ago was that they wouldn't re-open until they ran out of money to pay government workers. Starting to look pretty accurate.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236041
10/03/2020 09:26 AM
10/03/2020 09:26 AM
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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,390 Ill, USA
Will_L
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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,390
Ill, USA
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I’m hoping this works out. Testing is one thing but it doesn’t change how much of this virus is out there. I have been surprised at how tenacious the bug has been thru the summer and how diabolically evil it is in spreading. Good news is that death rates have gone way down and soon seem to be on the way to influenza like numbers. That’s not just better treatment due to knowledge but I believe the evidence that the beast has become more infectious and less deadly.
If any of you have a college around you, you’ve likely seen 100s of cases on the campus and spread in the community since the semester began. In our town of 50,000 with a college with 7000 students, they have 250 cases. Our town had 4 deaths Friday. The incidence had been pretty low all summer and there is a mask ordinance in effect since July. Looks like that deal at the Whitehouse last Saturday had a positive case slip through and to date up to 9 cases and counting. No political comments please, but it illustrates the problem.
What are the odds with people coming from everywhere that there are not exposed but not yet positive or exposed during or after testing, on their way asymptomatic cases. In 96 hrs before and 48 after a test how many people and surfaces does one possibly contact? How many contacts do those people that you contact have in the last ten days?
Like the kids returning to the party er I mean college, pent up Island visitors in a group that’s been tested negative will likely have a sense of security. Unfortunately that test means nothing likely for 3 or 4 days before and ever after it was taken as to whether you are infected. Alcohol, old friends, the sun and sea bringing on a great desire to seek the shade of a watering hole to quench that thirst.
My worry is and I’m probably/hopefully wrong, that the government will freak at first few cases and impose onerous new restrictions. As long as the virus is prevalent in the countries from where tourists are coming it will make the trip.
Last edited by Will_L; 10/03/2020 09:29 AM.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236043
10/03/2020 09:38 AM
10/03/2020 09:38 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,557 Toronto, Ontario
gordaguy2
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Toronto, Ontario
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I suspect, like in Canada, that the numbers will rise as the weather gets colder and more people are inside.
GordaGuy2
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236113
10/04/2020 10:49 AM
10/04/2020 10:49 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457 Finger Lake Region
crmoores
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Traveler
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Posts: 1,457
Finger Lake Region
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Obviously many here are extremely eager to finalize travel itineraries for their vacations or to get to their place in the BVI in December and beyond, and it’s been a long, painful wait for everyone - moreso for those who have been dealing with the harshest effects of this pandemic. And with the anticipated details of that opening still not forthcoming, many have become even less patient. We also can’t wait to return and see the friends we’ve made there, contribute to the businesses, and enjoy the beauty. But we want everyone there to be safe too, and not experience the same fall back to stay-at-home that the USVI and many states in the US have as travel opens up. So we hope to see the Dec 1 details soon, but things can change as that is two months away... Waiting patiently...
"Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.” -Anthony Bourdain
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236115
10/04/2020 11:14 AM
10/04/2020 11:14 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,557 Toronto, Ontario
gordaguy2
Traveler
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Traveler
Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,557
Toronto, Ontario
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I would love to go back down to VG but I have adopted a wait and see approach - flight costs won't be a problem even if one purchases close to departure dates and by waiting it keeps the options open.
GordaGuy2
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: gordaguy2]
#236175
10/05/2020 08:54 AM
10/05/2020 08:54 AM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267 Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
tpcook
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267
Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
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I bought aa tickets from Miami to STT Dec 1-15 for $388/rt for 2 persons. Same trip 1 week later double the price $366/rt for 1 person Still waiting on government to do something.
tpcook
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236179
10/05/2020 09:28 AM
10/05/2020 09:28 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457 Finger Lake Region
crmoores
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457
Finger Lake Region
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We see airline fares fluctuate sharply (Often much more than doubling) all the time as I’m sure you know. It seems a bit risky to book flights for Dec 1 arrival without the details we’re waiting on?
"Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.” -Anthony Bourdain
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: RatmansWife]
#236202
10/05/2020 02:46 PM
10/05/2020 02:46 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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Jason, just tried that - not working. Weird. It's working for me. If you have an option, try a different browser. For me it works with Chrome but not always Microsoft Edge.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236203
10/05/2020 03:01 PM
10/05/2020 03:01 PM
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 790 Kannapolis, NC
ndfaninnc
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 790
Kannapolis, NC
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VIAirlink.com works for me as well using Chrome. It will not work with iOS.
Go Irish!! Bill
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236218
10/05/2020 04:57 PM
10/05/2020 04:57 PM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267 Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
tpcook
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,267
Vero Beach, Fl and South Sound...
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So the government is going to talk to all stakeholders and this means no protocols till at least Oct 21 Total incompentance. WAY, WAY too late. Talk should have been done months ago. Tourism is dead for 2020 and well into 2021. Owners of villas, hotels charter boats are going to start hurting big time. Workers will be hurting way into 2021
tpcook
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: tpcook]
#236224
10/05/2020 05:11 PM
10/05/2020 05:11 PM
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Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 2,040 Charlotte, NC
NCSailor
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 2,040
Charlotte, NC
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So the government is going to talk to all stakeholders and this means no protocols till at least Oct 21 Total incompentance. WAY, WAY too late. Talk should have been done months ago. Tourism is dead for 2020 and well into 2021. Owners of villas, hotels charter boats are going to start hurting big time. Workers will be hurting way into 2021 Sounds like its time to implement a new tourism tax to generate more revenue. What shall we call it? We have run out of departure tax, NPS fee, environmental fee, etc., nomenclature. We need to get really creative so none of the rich US tourists realize its another ripoff. Suggestions?
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: tpcook]
#236269
10/06/2020 08:37 AM
10/06/2020 08:37 AM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,359
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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So the government is going to talk to all stakeholders and this means no protocols till at least Oct 21 Total incompentance. WAY, WAY too late. Talk should have been done months ago. Tourism is dead for 2020 and well into 2021. Owners of villas, hotels charter boats are going to start hurting big time. Workers will be hurting way into 2021 I suspect those meetings will strictly be to announce protocols specific to those industries. Can't imagine what they will expect of the villas. Will probably not be worth opening.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236273
10/06/2020 09:20 AM
10/06/2020 09:20 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457 Finger Lake Region
crmoores
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457
Finger Lake Region
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Didn’t work for the USVI...unfortunately...
Last edited by crmoores; 10/06/2020 09:31 AM.
"Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.” -Anthony Bourdain
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: GeorgeC1]
#236291
10/06/2020 12:53 PM
10/06/2020 12:53 PM
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Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 1,347 USVI
LocalSailor
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 1,347
USVI
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I don’t believe the USVI has had a single case linked to tourism since June. That is absolutely not a substantiated statement - our DOH does not differentiate to the public by local or tourist status on testing. We suffered a huge uptick in cases in July and August after opening to tourism --then a big drop in new cases after closing Aug 19 -Sept 19. What you "believe" has no bearing on the truth. daily report by Island: https://www.covid19usvi.com/sites/default/files/epi_reports/COVID-19_Sit%20Rep_2020.10.05.pdf
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236296
10/06/2020 01:54 PM
10/06/2020 01:54 PM
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Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,032 GA/NC
GeorgeC1
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Traveler
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,032
GA/NC
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Everywhere suffered a big uptick in cases during that timeframe. Many places in the US peaked in that time frame. I Don’t believe however that the USVI required covid tests 72 hours prior to arriving or any test at all. I think they added that requirement later for some locations including only 10 US states on 15 July. I saw nothing mentioning any issues with tourists. There were quite a few statements on where outbreaks originated in the USVI.
Last edited by GeorgeC1; 10/06/2020 06:37 PM.
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236769
10/12/2020 10:08 AM
10/12/2020 10:08 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457 Finger Lake Region
crmoores
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,457
Finger Lake Region
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LocalSailor you are correct, obviously, some prefer to look elsewhere than at the facts...
"Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.” -Anthony Bourdain
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Re: BVI Opening December 1st 2020 to International Tourism
[Re: VirginGordaResident]
#236780
10/12/2020 11:02 AM
10/12/2020 11:02 AM
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Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,032 GA/NC
GeorgeC1
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,032
GA/NC
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I guess that’s directed at me. I did look at the facts. The USVI opened with zero Covid testing required. Only after a spike did they add a requirement on 15 July for a Covid test if you were arriving from 10 US states. Since the USVI went to a requirement for all tourists to have a Covid test 5 days prior Covid has been well controlled in the USVI. There are currently 16 active covid cases in the USVI. New cases have been occurring at the rate of 0 to 2 cases a day. I would say the protocols they are using are working quite well. G
Last edited by GeorgeC1; 10/12/2020 11:12 AM.
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