After being completely shut down for 3.5 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Aruba was ready to reopen its border for international visitors on July 1st. Firstly, the borders were opened to the Caribbean (with the exception of Dominican Republic and Haiti), Europe, and Canada and since July 15th, tourists from the United States and Canada were welcomed. What a joy it was to see the first flight land and the first tourist touching Aruba’s ground after such a long time.
A month after opening the border we had the first active Covid-19 cases registered, which marked the start of the 2nd wave of the pandemic. We were all conscious that we might get affected by the virus once again, but we weren’t prepared for the strength in which this virus would manifest itself in the 2nd wave. Total cases were increasing at a high speed daily. Due to this and especially to protect our visitors the Government of Aruba together with the department of Public Health had to implement strict rules and protocols again. As the cases were increasing the rules became stricter and as soon as the numbers decreased immensely the Government of Aruba was able to adapt its rules according to the development of the Covid-19 situation on the island.
These are the decisions taken by the Government of Aruba up till today:
- Curfew is no longer in effect, however you are not allowed to be on the beach and gathering on public parking spaces between 12am-5am.
- Restaurants need to be closed at 11:00 pm.
- ‘Ambiance music’ only is allowed at the establishment. Loud music nor dancing is permitted.
- Tables in restaurants cannot seat more than 4 people, excluding children under 12 years of age.
- Bars (counter) at locations cannot service, as there cannot be chairs at the bar to sit down.
- Avoid large gatherings at the workplace.
- Avoid visiting family and family parties in groups of 4 people or more.
- Masks are now mandatory in all locations (interior) and also on public transport.
- Visits and admissions to elderly care homes are prohibited.
- Indoor and outdoor contact sports must stop.
Latest update on cases- October 26, 2020
21 new cases of COVID-19 reported and 25 persons recovered. The total number of active COVID-19 coronavirus cases is 164 (159 residents and 5 visitors). The total cases to date is 4.422 (4.357 residents and 60 visitors). The total recovered is 4.222 (4.162 residents and 60 visitors). The number of persons tested, including visitors, is now 38.406 of which 17.881 were persons tested at the airport. The number of deaths related to COVID-19 is now 36 (all residents). Sincere condolences to the family of the deceased. There are currently 12 persons hospitalized, of whom 1 is in intensive care.
Advice for travelers
Prior to travel, visitors should download the Aruba Department of Public Health’s Aruba Health App. A mobile resource for information on COVID-19 health procedures in Aruba, facilitation of the airport health screening, and faster results for Molecular PCR COVID-19 tests taken in Aruba.
Also as of November 1, 2020 a flat premium of $30 is applicable for new insurance policies for travelers over 14 years old. More information on travel and health requirements can be found on www.aruba.com.
