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"Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
#231077
07/31/2020 10:18 AM
07/31/2020 10:18 AM
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Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 85 The Beautiful BVI
Brent
OP
Traveler
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OP
Traveler
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 85
The Beautiful BVI
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Ahoy Captains, So far only one Source for this issue – https://bvinews.com/limited-tourism-could-resume-in-september-immigration-minister/ But, it reinforces the logic recognized by the BVI Gov in mid-May. https://bvinews.com/penn-pitches-se...ographical-edge-to-manage-covid-he-says/ The BVI Gov now have the manpower to facilitate the high-impact testing of tourism – https://www.bviplatinum.com/news.php?articleId=31842 http://www.virginislandsnewsonline.com/en/news/cuban-medical-professionals-arrive-in-vi The arrival of the Cuban medical team has been proposed for many weeks so their arrival, and the expense of their salaries and food and lodging, could indicate preparations for more travel and tourism soon. The BVI Gov has tested their Emergency response to a potential outbreak in JVD, with over 300 persons tested within 72 hours. Thankfully the initial positive test was a False positive in SVG, and everyone tested in the BVI was Negative. https://www.bviplatinum.com/news.php?articleId=31843 https://bvinews.com/jvd-cleared-govt-revokes-24-hour-lockdown/ This response was supported by the Equipment the BVI Gov now has operational to support large scale and short term testing – https://bvi.gov.vg/media-centre/lab-receives-new-equipment-enhance-covid-19-testing And a large scale reserve of testing kits has been ordered – https://bvi.org/bvi-now-seeking-20-000-additional-covid-19-test-kits-malone-bvi-news http://www.virginislandsnewsonline....om-vi-to-svg-tests-positive-for-covid-19 No paradigm has been proposed for safe travel into the BVI yet. It may be similar to the restrictions in the USVI – https://viconsortium.com/vi-coronav...t-down-at-midnight-until-further-notice- However, if PCR tests are the basic criteria for travel, then most people with the resources for a vacation in the BVI should be able to source a PCR test – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1PaaeWz43Y And insurance – https://www.insuremytrip.com/travel-insurance-plans-coverages/coronavirus-travel-insurance/ https://www.cnbc.com/2020/06/21/tra...ovid-19-domestic-road-trip-coverage.html And with over 2 months to go before the start of the ‘20/’21 Yacht Charter season and many improvements in the Testing, Treatment, and Prevention – https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/20/world/covid-coronavirus-vaccine.html https://www.cnbc.com/2020/07/27/the...ple-to-see-if-the-shots-really-work.html We are all looking forward in a few months to “No Mask, No Distancing … No Shoes, No Shirt … No Problem” on a Yacht in the BVI. Please, I understand that it is a cornerstone of the InterWebs to ‘Race to the Bottom’. I hope most of these Conditions will Change as they respond to the Medical and Economic conditions Changing. Hopefully, some ‘Changes in Latitudes’ will help with all our ‘Changes in Attitudes’ soon. Fair Winds, Brent from The Captains Compass
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231080
07/31/2020 10:38 AM
07/31/2020 10:38 AM
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Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,311 Bucks County, Pa.
toast
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,311
Bucks County, Pa.
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Wow, that is a really good amount of information you compiled together in one place. I am hopeful the latest information about Tourism is in fact, able to happen. Both for the business that are suffering currently, and for those of us who so miss the ability to feel the sand and the sun!! thank you for the comprehensive posting.
Toast.......to Life; White Bay...heaven on earth. Diane
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: sleepychef]
#231230
08/01/2020 07:32 PM
08/01/2020 07:32 PM
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Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 2,978 VI,GA,AZ
sail445
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 2,978
VI,GA,AZ
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post deleted
Last edited by Carol_Hill; 08/02/2020 01:09 AM.
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: sail445]
#231236
08/01/2020 08:46 PM
08/01/2020 08:46 PM
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Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,355 New Jersey, USA
DanS
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,355
New Jersey, USA
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Mass hysteria, functions 100% on the feeble minded and destroys the economy Look, please just stop it. Aside from violating the rules of this forum, such statements are offensive to those who have suffered loss. I just found out that the sister of someone I'm close to died yesterday from the virus. 52 years old. Dan
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: DanS]
#231240
08/01/2020 10:05 PM
08/01/2020 10:05 PM
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Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 2,129 Ontario, Canada
warren460
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 2,129
Ontario, Canada
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Well stated. My condolences to the family and friends.
Warren S/V Scuba Doo Lagoon 50 (winner of best crewed yacht under 55 feet at the St. Thomas crewed yacht boat show) and Lagoon 450, (both part of the Charter Caribe fleet (all inclusive charters) -St Thomas USVI https://chartercaribe.com/charters/ ).
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231408
08/04/2020 08:04 AM
08/04/2020 08:04 AM
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Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,094 South Sound Villa Virgin Gorda
tpcook
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 4,094
South Sound Villa Virgin Gorda
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Some folks that I have talked to suggest November as the opening time for tourists. These are folks in the BVI Government. Everyone needs to realize covid 19 will be around for a while, even after a vaccine (if one works) since some folks will not get vaccinated so they will be spreading the covid 19 around. There are good medications to limit the effects of covid 19. To get our lives back and start the economy back up there will be risks but they are manageable.
Last edited by tpcook; 08/04/2020 08:09 AM.
tpcook
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231414
08/04/2020 08:27 AM
08/04/2020 08:27 AM
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Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 495
ski2play
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 495
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Great update! Fingers crossed we can get back into the BVI this fall/winter.
Sail445-your assumptions and non factual comments are rude. As others have requested. Please stop on this forum.
It is a conscious choice— we can work together to make a better world! Or not. Think about it. Are you being part of the solution?
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231566
08/06/2020 08:02 AM
08/06/2020 08:02 AM
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Joined: May 2013
Posts: 56 Louisiana
cajunscuba
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Traveler
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 56
Louisiana
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We are booked for a bareboat charter in June 2021. I thought for sure this would not be as much of an issue by then, but after reading this forum, I'm second guessing that decision. I wonder if they'll still require the recent negative test at that time. Who knows...out of the 8 of us that are supposed to be on the boat I sure hope none test positive (false positive or not).
Last edited by cajunscuba; 08/06/2020 08:36 AM.
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231649
08/07/2020 09:25 AM
08/07/2020 09:25 AM
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,290 Finger Lakes Region and Mexico
crmoores
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,290
Finger Lakes Region and Mexico
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As we’re seeing (in the US at least) the “rapid tests” are giving false results and aren’t reliable, while the tests that are sent to labs are the gold standard. I’ve not followed the entry requirements (existing or proposed) - is the more robust negative lab test required as evidence?
Bluewater
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: crmoores]
#231651
08/07/2020 09:48 AM
08/07/2020 09:48 AM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 2,304 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 2,304
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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As we’re seeing (in the US at least) the “rapid tests” are giving false results and aren’t reliable, while the tests that are sent to labs are the gold standard. I’ve not followed the entry requirements (existing or proposed) - is the more robust negative lab test required as evidence? For Belongers and Permanent Residents the only entry requirement is a questionnaire and approval by govt. Upon entry, there is a mandatory 14 day guarded quarantine with a lab test on day 13 and 14. Upon 2 negative results, you are released from quarantine. No entry requirements or dates defined for tourists or work permit holders yet. I'm guessing we'll hear about the work permit holders Sept. 1.
Last edited by JasonHelmbrecht; 08/07/2020 09:49 AM.
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: JasonHelmbrecht]
#231655
08/07/2020 10:14 AM
08/07/2020 10:14 AM
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Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 716 Georgia & South Carolina
Deepcut
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 716
Georgia & South Carolina
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[quote=crmoores] For Belongers and Permanent Residents the only entry requirement is a questionnaire and approval by govt. Upon entry, there is a mandatory 14 day guarded quarantine with a lab test on day 13 and 14. Upon 2 negative results, you are released from quarantine. Is this quarantine under government supervision (specific government decide location with personnel) or self quarantine at home?
Wes s/v Sea Tiger (Lagoon 42)
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Deepcut]
#231663
08/07/2020 11:27 AM
08/07/2020 11:27 AM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 2,304 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 2,304
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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[quote=crmoores] For Belongers and Permanent Residents the only entry requirement is a questionnaire and approval by govt. Upon entry, there is a mandatory 14 day guarded quarantine with a lab test on day 13 and 14. Upon 2 negative results, you are released from quarantine. Is this quarantine under government supervision (specific government decide location with personnel) or self quarantine at home? They started out allowing both with guards at either. Then changed to only allow for government locations because they had too many security issues with people sneaking out. But since then, I've heard the do allow some exceptions for people to quarantine at home. Definitely no self quarantine. The houses nearby that had people home quarantining have had guards outside 24/7.
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: gordaguy2]
#231665
08/07/2020 03:06 PM
08/07/2020 03:06 PM
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Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 2,304 Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
JasonHelmbrecht
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 2,304
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
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If I couls quarantine at our villa I'd be there in an instant
For anyone they approve to quarantine at home, it's over $6k for the 2 weeks to pay for security. Article Link
Last edited by JasonHelmbrecht; 08/07/2020 03:08 PM.
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231668
08/07/2020 03:42 PM
08/07/2020 03:42 PM
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 962 Memphis, BVI, CT
RatmansWife
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 962
Memphis, BVI, CT
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Anyone thinking of traveling through the USVI, the CDC is now recommending against it.
US Virgin Islands US Virgin Islands reported 18 new cases of COVID-19 on 2020-08-06. In total, 481 cases have been reported there. Travel Health Guidance
CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to US Virgin Islands. Travelers at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should consider postponing all travel, including essential travel, to US Virgin Islands. COVID-19 risk in US Virgin Islands is high. If you get sick in US Virgin Islands and need medical care, healthcare resources may be overwhelmed. After travel, take these actions to protect others from getting sick:
Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms` length) from anyone who is not from your household. It is important to do this everywhere -- both indoors and outdoors. Wear a cloth face covering to keep your nose and mouth covered when you are outside of your home. Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer Watch your health: Look for symptoms of COVID-19, and take your temperature if you feel sick. Because you are at a higher risk for exposure to COVID-19, take additional recommended precautions. Follow state and local recommendations or requirements.
Visit CDC`s Travelers` Health webapge for additional travel information.
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231798
08/10/2020 11:09 AM
08/10/2020 11:09 AM
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 962 Memphis, BVI, CT
RatmansWife
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 962
Memphis, BVI, CT
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Brent, while I agree with the need to restart the charter yacht business, I disagree with some of your points. Yacht charter guests are not in defacto quarantine, because they tour the various islands, visiting beach bars, restaurants and sites like the Baths. Better option than cruise ships, to be sure, but not without risk.
I would argue that the easiest "tourism" option is to let BVI homeowners back in, with a Covid test before departure and again on arrival. For the most part they do not have relatives on island, so they are more likely to respect quarantine. In our case, we live on over five acres on an out island. What is better "quarantine" than that? Skipping beach bars for a couple weeks would not be a hardship.
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231807
08/10/2020 12:03 PM
08/10/2020 12:03 PM
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Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 85 The Beautiful BVI
Brent
OP
Traveler
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OP
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Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 85
The Beautiful BVI
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Ahoy RatmansWife,
I am curious if Criticizing the Entire Yachting Industry, including all the Yacht Owners, Yacht Charters, and all the People of the BVI who depend on Yacht tourism for their livelihood, makes your very focused situation more valid? Is your Attack on what a BVI Gov Minister has forwarded as "The vast majority of our tourism is water-based where density is a non-issue and adopting the new social distancing guidelines will not be a challenge. It will happen naturally,” conducive to opening up the BVI to any Foreigner, especially in terms of your warning that it is "Not without Risk"? I understand You Personally have a vested interest in access to your property in the BVI, but, is Denigrating the Yacht industry, in Any way, a Positive, in Any way, to the Opening of BVI Borders to tourism? I Fully Support your Need to return to your property for both the safekeeping and enjoyment of your investment. I am sure that your return would provide employment and a net financial advantage to the BVI and its Belongers. I would hope the BVI Gov would find your claim to be a reasonable and advantageous co-Priority for travel to the BVI.
I admit my retirement plans, still several decades away thanks to Irma and now this Virus, are based on being a somewhat 'Not without Risk' looking Pirate, but, until then, maybe it would better if we at least Tried working Together, rather than at the expense of each other, to beat this Virus and all its challenges?
Fair Winds, Brent from The Captains Compass
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231814
08/10/2020 12:29 PM
08/10/2020 12:29 PM
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 492 Oak Park, IL
TomGarvey
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 492
Oak Park, IL
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RatmansWife is not “denigrating” anyone, she is simply sharing what she has observed, which I have also observed over the years: charterers interact with service workers and residents on shore, as well as with each other. That does not equate to “de facto quarantine.” We all hope the islands can open up soon, in a safe manner.
Last edited by TomGarvey; 08/10/2020 12:30 PM. Reason: Punctuation
Tom Garvey
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231815
08/10/2020 12:30 PM
08/10/2020 12:30 PM
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Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 74,031 Central Florida!
Carol_Hill
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 74,031
Central Florida!
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Brent--STAND DOWN. You are over-reacting, by a LOT. Attack on the yachting industry? Xenophobic? Racist? No. She has some very valid points. Yacht guests are NOT in a de facto quarantine, not at all. This is not a zero-sum game, that the yachting industry is somehow in competition with land owners.
Carol Hill
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Re: "Tourism could resume in September" - BVI Gov
[Re: Brent]
#231839
08/10/2020 01:10 PM
08/10/2020 01:10 PM
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Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 409 Redmond, WA
MrEZgoin
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 409
Redmond, WA
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While being on our boat may not be de-facto quarantine, I'm sure boat owners like myself would welcome the chance to use our property even with restrictions on provisioning, going ashore, etc.
M4000 "Lio Kai"
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