The US Virgin Islands to welcome tourists from June 1st

The island paradise will reopen for tourism on 1st June.

The U.S Virgin Islands are planning to start spreading island vibes again as early as next week, reopening for tourism and beckoning visitors to their crystal blue waters and immaculate white-sand beaches. The US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism shared new safety protocols will be in effect - even as the territory remains under a state of emergency. 

“Even though COVID-19 caused us to temporarily close our doors, our hearts remained open,” Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte said in a statement provided to Travel & Leisure. 

"We now look forward to welcoming travellers back to their home away from home."

The islands, which include popular hot spots like St.Croix and St.Thomas, are currently under a safer at home order. People are required to wear masks when entering a business, gatherings are limited to 10 people, and bars and restaurants are limited to a 50% capacity. 

Currently, airports are open however the flight schedules have been reduced. The territory has recorded 69 confirmed cases of COVID-19, according to John Hopkins University, which tracks the virus around the world. 

What plans are in place?

Safety will remain the main focus when the islands reopen, with specific rules on cleaning and housekeeping, as well as for services like taxis, according to the Department of Tourism. 

“Over the past several weeks, we have been building COVID-19 mitigation and response capacity, and preparing protocols to protect the health and safety of residents and visitors alike," Boschulte said

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