St Kitts and Nevis has unveiled a new update to its travel protocols, adding a new PCR test for all international travelers 72 hours prior to departure from the island.
The test applies to all travelers staying seven nights or less.
It will be performed at the traveler’s hotel property at the nurse’s station.
If positive before departure, travelers will have to stay in isolation at their hotel.
Caribbean Journal was on hand this week as AMResorts, an Apple Leisure Group company, officially reopened the all-inclusive Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana following a $36 million renovation.
The reopening ceremony — which consisted of a traditional interpretation of the National Anthem, ribbon-cutting, resort showcase, and executive panel – was held both in-person and virtually.
During our stay, Caribbean Journal noticed that many of the guests were engaging in social distancing and mask wearing.
Luis Nunez, regional commercial director of the Dominican Republic for AMResorts, told Caribbean Journal that the property, like all AMResorts hotels, will be capped at 60 percent occupancy.
He said when hotels come close to hitting 40 percent, management will close off the cheaper rooms and even consider raising rates to maintain the cost of operating the resorts.
At the time of Caribbean Journal’s stay, the occupancy was about 20 percent, representing about 200 people, Nunez said.
Nunez said most guests were tested at the airport via breathalyzer equipment made in Israel.
If a guests gets sick at the hotel, they are brought to an isolated room, treated by a doctor and then sent to a hospital, said Nunez.
The completed $36 million renovation project signifies continued growth and economic recovery for the destination despite the pandemic.
Some of the most notable include the addition of 90 rooms, bringing the resort total to 639, suites featuring private pool access (a new suite category), marble floors, hydro tubs and updated décor; a new El Patio Restaurant serving gourmet Mexican cuisine; and two additional bars, making the resort total 11. There are also two new pools. The pools are a 52-meter Olympic-sized pool and a lazy river with a swim-up bar and a connected infinity pool.
The reopening of Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana follows that of several other properties in the country, including Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, Dreams Dominicus La Romana, Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa, Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana, and Sunscape Puerto Plata.
Guests at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana will have access to enhanced offerings and amenities.
All AMResorts branded properties in the Dominican Republic will be reopen by the end of the year, the company said.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Puerto Rico’s elections commission said … Aponte, electoral commissioner for Puerto Rico’s Independence Party, said … island just east of Puerto Rico. The mayor elect won … longtime officials. This year, Puerto Rico received more than 220, …
This story is part of Caribbean Journal Invest, the authority on Caribbean hotel, real estate and tourism business news. Join to access this and other great features, including our biweekly newsletter. Subscribe to Read More.
The Bahamas’ famous Atlantis Paradise Island resort has announced its long-awaited reopening, Caribbean Journal has learned.
The massive Paradise Island resort is planning to resume operations on Dec. 10, the property confirmed.
The first phase of the property’s reopening will include Atlantis’ renovated Royal East Tower, Harborside Resort Villas and The Reef studios and suites. (The Reef will reopen Dec. 17).
The Reef at Atlantis.
Relaunched amenities will include “personalized guest experiences” at Dolphin Cay and golf, the spa, and the property’s pools, among others.
That will include the Atlantis Casino, the Crystal Court shops, Aquaventure and eateries including Nobu and Todd English’s Olives.
“We are so excited to welcome back our loyal guests, families, and new visitors to experience Atlantis Paradise Island and reconnect with themselves and their loved ones. Atlantis will reopen in planned phases, and our highest priority is and will always be to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of our guests, team members, and community,” said Audrey Oswell, President and Managing Director, Atlantis Paradise Island. “Our guests will receive heartfelt service and create lifelong memories by being immersed in our authentic Bahamian culture, experiences, and attractions available throughout our lush resort grounds.”
