The Caribbean island of Saint Lucia has confirmed it is remaining open to UK visitors, thanks to its strict Covid-19 measures.
More than 50 countries around the world have banned UK arrivals or flights in a bid to stem the spread of a new, more contagious strain of coronavirus.
A statement today from the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority and Saint Lucia Hospitality & Tourism Association (SLHTA) said entry protocols remain the same: pre-authorisation to travel, a negative PCR test within seven days of travel and staying in Covid-certified hotels.
Dominic Fedee, tourism minister, said news of the new Covid-19 variant prompted a review of protocols but that borders remain open, including for UK arrivals.
“All our protocols continue to be reviewed regularly and we will update immediately with any changes,” he said.
“We want to thank our people, partners and visitors for their resolute and effective commitment to maintaining our protocols.
“The adherence to strict pre-arrival and in-destination measures have enabled us to continue to welcome thousands of people safely.”
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Karolin Troubetzkoy, SLHTA chair, added: “This has been, and continues to be, the most challenging year for everyone.
“All of our members have had to adapt to the many required changes to mitigate the risks of Covid-19 and they have done so responsibly.
“We continue to work with the Saint Lucian government and the Saint Lucian Tourism Authority (SLTA) to monitor and maintain the necessary protocols in all of our various tourism sectors.
“We want to thank all our guests, staff hospitality and tourism team members and suppliers for their continued support. We are committed to continue to host our visitors warmly and safely.”