The Bahamas Bans American Tourists But Still Welcomes Tourists From Other Countries

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Bella Breakdown

The Bahamas takes precaution by banning American tourists as a result of the spike in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the U.S. but is allowing visitors from other countries. The Bahamas closing its border to U.S. travelers three weeks after welcoming tourists back to the islands.

Since reopening the Bahamas borders on July 1, the COVID-19 situation has deteriorated at an exponential rate. The Bahamas’ Ministry of Health has reported 49 new cases for a total of 153 cases since the international board reopened.

Prime Minister of the Bahamas, Hubert Minnis, made a national address announcing the country’s national airline, Bahamasair, will cease flights to the U.S. immediately. Ongoing commercial flights will be allowed after Wednesday to accommodate departing tourists.

As of Wednesday, commercial vessels and international flights will not be permitted to enter the borders with an acceptance for the following regions including the European Union, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The Bahamas will also require tourists to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 rapid test result from an accredited lab.

Minnis placed the blame of the spike in COVID-19 cases in citizens that are ignoring health guidelines, causing overcrowded and overrun hospitals. The Bahamas are focused on keeping case numbers down to avoid hospitals from being overcrowded with minimal space in existing hospitals.