Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, Hawaii has taken virus maintenance seriously. Governor David Ige has established a mandatory 14-day quarantine for visitors and residents returning on March 26, and has since extended the quarantine until July 31.
“Beginning August 1, travelers who have a valid negative Covid-19 test before arrival will not be subject to the mandatory 14-day quarantine.”
While there are still additional details to come, this development is the first sign that Hawaii is returning to a normal appearance since tourism stopped last spring.
The Four Seasons Hualalai on the Island of Hawaii
Courtesy of Four Seasons Hualalai
Hawaii’s tourism business has basically shrunk, so any hint of hope for the safe return of travelers will surely be welcome.
Last month, the state began exploring the feasibility of a travel “bubble” with Japan, which similarly would allow Japanese tourists to avoid quarantine if they meet certain criteria.
It appears that Ige’s pronouncement negates the need for this “bubble” approach, although he did not offer details during Wednesday’s press conference.
However, what he said suggests that Hawaii needs to get those tourist dollars back. Ige, however, remains vigilant in doing everything possible to protect the health, safety, and well-being of residents and visitors to the Hawaiian Islands.
The highest sea cliffs in the world are in Molokai, Hawaii
Shutterstock
“The health of our community remains our primary focus. This multi-layered pre-trip assessment and evaluation process allows travelers an alternative to the 14-day travel quarantine in a way that protects the health and safety of our kama’āina and visitors. ” Ige said. “Now is the time to work together to ensure that our local businesses can safely reopen to incoming travelers.”
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