by Donald Wood
Last updated: 12:54 PM ET, Thu June 4, 2020
As travel restrictions are lifted, Antigua and Barbuda announced it would be opening to international travelers on Thursday, June 4.
The first flight carrying residents and tourists from the United States is scheduled to land Thursday night. American Airlines will host the flight and would be part of the country's first phase of reopening.
The first phase is expected to last from June through September, with the airports in Antigua and Barbuda mandating temperature check for all arrivals, requiring face covering for anyone entering the facilities and issuing coronavirus tests.
More airlines are expected to start returning to the islands with flights in July.
Airports will follow similar guidelines as hotels, bars, restaurants and other tourism-facing establishments, which were developed by government and health officials with help from the World Travel and Tourism Council and World Health Organization.
Guests ready to stay at the hotels and resorts on the islands will experience a new normal, with increased cleaning protocols, a move to a more touchless experience and doctors and nurses on each property.
One of the reasons Antigua and Barbuda has become so popular for tourists is the ample beaches. With 365 beaches and plenty of room to exercise social distancing rules, the islands are ready to welcome travelers back.
The Caribbean nation is also ready to bring the tourism industry back, as one-third of the jobs on the island are associated with it. After being devastated by the viral pandemic and its impact on the local economy, the return of travelers is a welcomed moment.
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