by GAY NAGLE MYERS

TO ALLEVIATE THE 48hour quarantine that the government of St Vincent and The Grenadines requires for all visitors arriving by air, Palm Island Resort on the southern tip of the Grenadine archipelago has purchased its own PCR testing machine.

“While this was a significant investment, we acknowledged that in order to encourage a seamless travel experience for our guests, it was a necessity,” said James Lane, the resort’s owner.

Guests traveling to Palm Island typically arrive around 5 p.m. at Union Island via a short flight from Barbados. They are tested prior to the five-minute boat ride to Palm Island. Upon arrival, they are whisked to their room for a room-service dinner, and by the next midmorning, the quarantine should be lifted provided that test results are negative.

If a guest tests positive for COVID-19, they must quarantine for 14 days, and the resort will work with them for a reduced rate.

Guests who choose not to take part in the PCR testing, which costs $125 per person, must quarantine in their room for 48 hours.

The private island resort only allows visitors over 16 who have proof of vaccination.

Travelers returning to the U.S. may also use the PCR testing for their trip home. (Travel Weekly)