Hawaii Introduces "Resort Bubble" Quarantine System to Revive Tourism

Strategic Insights -

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact Hawaii's tourism industry, Governor David Ige has introduced a new quarantine system allowing counties to establish enhanced movement quarantines or "resort bubbles." This innovative approach, aimed at reviving the island's economy, requires participating travelers to stay in clearly defined geographical areas and limit contact with those not under quarantine. The state's face mask mandate and county-coronavirus safety guidelines will also be enforced. Residents and visitors from other islands can spend time together without quarantine if counties agree with resorts and hotels to participate in the program.

Key Takeaways:

  • The state of Hawaii has extended its COVID-19 emergency through September 30, requiring mandatory quarantine for travelers arriving in certain counties.
  • Participating counties can establish enhanced movement quarantines or "resort bubbles," allowing for tourism as long as travelers stay in clearly defined geographical areas and limit contact with those not under quarantine.
  • Travelers must sign waivers to participate in the program and will be required to comply with county and state coronavirus safety guidelines.
  • The "resort bubble" program will also require electronic monitoring, and travelers will bear the costs of the program.
  • Privacy protections, such as health information, will be waived.
  • Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami supports the concept, calling it a "work in progress," and believes it is a step towards a broader opening of travel.

Statistics:

  • Hawaii's COVID-19 emergency has been extended through September 30.
  • 14-day mandatory quarantine is required for travelers arriving in Kauai, Hawaii, Maui, and Kalawao.
  • The "resort bubble" program will allow residents and visitors to spend time together on other islands without quarantine if counties establish agreements with resorts and hotels.

Sources:

  • Governor David Ige (https://governor.hawaii.gov/newsroom/latest-news/hawaii-covid-19-joint-information-center-daily-news-digest-august-20-2020/)
  • IB Times (https://www.ibtimes.com/hawaii-reinstates-island-travel-restrictions-after-coronavirus-spike-3024700?utm_source=feeds_ibt&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=_content)
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Bahamas (http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Bahamas_takes_cautious_approach_to_US_travel_advisories_on_COVID-19?profile=1228)
  • Ministry of Tourism, Jamaica (https://www.mot.gov.jm/news-releases/tourism-heart-jamaica%E2%80%99s-post-covid-economic-recovery-programme-%E2%80%93-bartlett)