Less restrictions, more activities on the cards for Barbados

As Barbados continues to reopen, a new Directive from the Government announced the discontinuation of the 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. curfew effective February 14, 2022. This comes as public health officials continue to manage the pandemic, with approximately 70 percent of the total eligible population receiving at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The new Directive highlighted other updates including:

• There will be no restriction of beach activity and parks, and Barbadians and visitors alike would again be allowed to enjoy these facilities without limitation.

• Hiking will also be allowed in no greater groups of 30 individuals.

• Pleasure craft and private boats, chartered for private cruises will move from 50 to 100 per cent of their authorised number of passengers. Proof of vaccination or testing will be required prior to boarding.

• Cricket capacity at the Kensington Oval for the upcoming international tournaments in March will move from 60 to 80 per cent, fully vaccinated.

• The six-foot rule for distancing will no longer apply, except where persons exercise together outdoors, without wearing a mask. In all other cases, the physical distance of at least three feet will apply.

In addition to relaxed restrictions, visitors to the island can also look forward to the return of several sporting and entertainment activities as Barbados reopens. Some of the major upcoming events already announced for 2022 include the highly-anticipated England vs. West Indies cricket tour in March; the World Surfing League QS3000 in April; the Annual Barbados Jazz Excursion and Golf Weekend in October; and a packed motorsports calendar of activities taking place at Bushy Park.

Speaking on the destination’s growing calendar of events, Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Sen. the Hon. Lisa Cummins noted “We are looking ahead with great optimism as we welcome the return of so many well-loved activities to our shores. From motorsports to jazz, we are once again offering travellers the opportunity to immerse themselves in our culture and experience the warmth and hospitality of our people.”

She added that “Our tourism, entertainment, culture and sports sectors, among others, continue to drive demand for destination Barbados. The newly updated protocols signify an important and progressive step for us to able to satisfy that demand in a manner close to, and hopefully exceeding, what we were delivering pre-COVID.” (PR)