COVID-19 Travel Restrictions: Is It Safe To Visit the Caribbean Right Now?

The Caribbean is one of the most coveted regions on the planet when it comes to travel, and as the world continues to reopen more than one year into the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more Americans are eyeing a return to the islands. The number one question on the minds of many though is whether it's safe to visit the Caribbean this spring. The correct answer is ultimately up to the individual, but here's what you should know before you decide.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its guidance for fully vaccinated travelers, recommending that fully vaccinated individuals be allowed to travel internationally without COVID-19 testing or quarantine requirements as long as they continue to take precautions such as wearing a mask, avoiding crowds, socially distancing and washing their hands frequently. For those who aren't vaccinated, the CDC encourages testing before and after your trip and staying home to self-quarantine for a full seven days after you return regardless of your test results. Unvaccinated travelers should also follow the aforementioned COVID-19 precautions throughout their travels. Regardless of vaccine status, travelers will need a negative test result taken within three calendar days of departure in order to gain re-entry into the U.S.

Much of the Caribbean has reopened to international travel. However, visitors can expect additional entry requirements due to COVID-19, including things like completed health questionnaires, negative test results and proof of insurance in some cases. Destinations like the Dominican Republic and Mexico don't require a negative COVID-19 test for entry but those are rare exceptions. For the most part, Americans will need proof of a negative result taken within a few days of departure to avoid being placed in quarantine. The following Caribbean countries and territories are currently open to U.S. travelers: Anguilla; Antigua and Barbuda; Aruba; Bahamas; Barbados; Bonaire; British Virgin Islands; Cuba; Curacao; Dominica; Dominican Republic; Grenada; Haiti; Jamaica; Puerto Rico; St. Kitts and Nevis; Saint Lucia; St. Maarten (Dutch side); St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Turks and Caicos; U.S. Virgin Islands. Be sure to check the latest restrictions and requirements in your destination before you book.

Some islands are listed at a Level 3 (reconsider travel) or higher. However, several Caribbean destinations have received Level 1 Travel Health Notices (COVID-19 Low) from the CDC, including Anguilla, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis and the British Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, Dominica is currently a Level 2 (COVID-19 Moderate) destination.

Ryan Doncsecz, Groups Manager at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based VIP Vacations Inc, raved about his recent experience at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya in the Mexican Caribbean. "The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya team from check-in to check-out absolutely wowed me," he told TravelPulse. "I noticed cleaning at every corner and throughout the day as well as mask enforcements at bars and restaurants when social distancing could not be enforced. The COVID-19 test on the property was also extremely professional, fast and easy. The test results were pretty much immediate." Doncsecz also praised American Airlines and Lomas DMC for safe and smooth flights and private transfer services between the airport and resort.

Earlier this year, TravelPulse Senior Editor Codie Liermann shared a similarly pleasant experience in the Dominican Republic, during which she stayed at the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and noticed a handful of enhanced hygiene procedures. "I know travel restrictions vary from state to state, but the safety protocols in place where I live are nothing compared to what I experienced in the Dominican Republic," she wrote. "The destination is doing everything in its power to keep people safe in order to continue providing a safe retreat for international visitors."

Safe travel to the Caribbean in the time of COVID-19 starts with talking to an experienced travel advisor who will keep you informed about the latest protocols and guide you toward a destination and hotel or resort that's right for you based on not only your budget and preferences but your comfort level. If you've never worked with an advisor, head over to TravelSense.org to begin your search for a trusted American Society of Travel Advisors-verified (ASTA) travel professional based on your destination and trip type.