The economy of Maldives is among the ones that sustain heavily, if not completely, on Tourism. So, when the doors to the exotic islands opened to all on July 15, 2020, Maldives emerged as one of the rare successes.
However, there are safety protocols and restrictions in place to protect those at risk. Those wishing to wish must present a negative PCR for Covid, among other health declarations proving the absence of the virus. With temperature checks, health screening, random health inspections, Maldives is attempting to return to a normalcy under these extraordinary times. With 19,793 cases and 62 deaths reported, the islands have started to roll out India-made AstraZeneca Vaccine, starting with front-liners.
Masks are to be worn in all public places, and supplies, especially hand-sanitizers are to be carried on person at all times. Social-distancing is also promoted, especially more among those who had or may have been in contact with the virus.
Though tourists are allowed to travel from one resort to another, one guesthouse to another, traveling between islands is under strict watch. For approval, tourists have to reach out to Ministry of Tourism via splitstays@tourism.gov.mv.
After the vacation, before leaving, the tourists that stayed in any of the guesthouses have to take a PCR test 72 hours prior to their scheduled departure.
If a tourist is found to exhibit fever or other Covid suggestive symptoms at any point during the last 14 days, they must undergo a PCR test or Covid.
On occasion of testing positive, the tourist must inform the establishment for tracing and containment reasons.
Installing the tracing app TraceEkee is an added precaution tourists are implored to take, for the safety and well-being of themselves as well as those around them.
The tourists are also to undergo a 14 days quarantine upon returning to their homes.
As this exotic destination that rests cantilevered on clear waters attempts to bring a sense of freedom and calm to those who need it, other half of the responsibility falls on the shoulders of tourists to keep in mind not only the safety and health of themselves and their closed ones, but the citizens of the majestic Maldives who are trying their best despite the challenging time.
If there’s one way to beat the virus, it’s to do it together.
Have you been to the Maldives yet? Let’s talk in the comments.
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