Saint Lucia’s government is closing the country’s airports to all incoming flights, both commercial and private. 

The move was set to go into effect at 11:59 PM on March 23. 

The shutdown will last through Sunday, April 5, according to a statement released by the government of Saint Lucia. 

Planes “facilitating departing passengers” will be permitted, however, along with air cargo operations, the government said. 

The move is part of the country’s efforts to contain “the spread or the importation of new cases” of coronavirus. 

Those efforts have included the closure of schools, travel restrictions and a scaling back of non-essential services. 

The decision is the latest in a slate of Caribbean countries that have enacted similar measures.

– CJ

The post Saint Lucia Closes Airports to Inbound Travel Amid Coronavirus appeared first on Caribbean Journal.

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You’re dreaming about it. 

No matter where you are, the Caribbean is always calling.

In times like these, just a daydream of a pristine Caribbean beach, a breezy beach shack, a cocktail on the beach, can bring a smile and a moment of serenity. 

Today, we’re thinking of Pinel Island, the tucked-away jewel off the coast of Cul de Sac in St Martin, long a Mecca for beach aficionados. 

There are two beach bars: Karibuni and Yellow Beach, each with fresh fish, hand-crafted cocktails and service right on the sand. 

And then there’s the sand itself, shallow and perfect for bobbing around on a quintessential Caribbean afternoon. 

It juts out around the corner, brilliant white sand surrounded by St Martin’s vibrant green hills, a stunning little isle. 

Take a digital journey to Pinel Island with the latest Caribbean Moment video, the footage of which was shot just a few months ago in St Martin. 

For more, visit St Martin.

— CJ

The post In St Martin, a Dreamy Little Caribbean Gem appeared first on Caribbean Journal.

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The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean region are mourning the passing of hospitality giant Sol Kerzner. 

Kerner, a native of South Africa, was the founder and CEO of Kerzner International, which first developed the iconic Atlantis Paradise Island resort in The Bahamas. 

In a statement, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation said Kerzner “brought an original perspective to developing his hospitality brands, and the launch of The Atlantis brought new attention and a revitalization to The Bahamas, which contributed greatly to the phenomenal growth we have seen as our tourism industry has matured.”

The Atlantis megaresort, a brand that has expanded around the globe, is the largest private employer in The Bahamas, its debut two decades ago was instrumental in the growth of tourism to the country. 

“Sol Kerzner was a giant in the hospitality industry and we shall not see his likeness again,” said Bahamas Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar. “His vision for Atlantis reshaped our skyline here in Nassau and redefined The Bahamas vacation for many millions. He will be sorely missed.”

— CJ

The post Bahamas Mourns Atlantis Founder appeared first on Caribbean Journal.

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