Key Takeaway:
- Fiji has again opened its border to international travelers for the first time in 2 years on December 1, as the Pacific Island Country seeks to start its tourism industry.
- Tourists arriving would have to stay three nights in a resort and undergo fast testing.
Fiji has again opened its border to international travelers for the first time in 2 years on December 1, as the Pacific Island Country seeks to start its tourism industry.
Fiji shut its border to all foreign citizens in March 2020 due to control the spread of COVID-19 in a bid to stop its medical facilities.
With 90% of Fijian adults who are now entirely vaccinated, the Pacific Island is again opened its border to tourists from several countries – much to the relief of tourism operators.
“To see the Fiji Airways plane fulled up and for us to welcome those tourists today was so great. It was a great feeling, and I’m glad to have been there personally,” James Sowane, director of the Fiji tourism company Tewaka said.
Tourists arriving would have to stay three nights in a resort and undergo fast testing. They could move around designated areas, including bars and restaurants within the hotels, and embark on some day trips and activities.
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Although limited, the resumption of tourism boosts a few of the island nation’s 1 million people.
Tourism covers 40% of Fiji’s economy, and the border closure saw 10% of the population not employed.
Still, the opening risks Fiji, with Australia one of a few countries to record the new Omicron variant cases.
Fiji Prime Minister Bainimarama hailed the return of tourists vaccinated against COVID-19 and tested for the virus.
“Today, we are proud and most prepared to welcome the first tourists to fly to Fiji in two years. Our message to fully vaccinated, COVID-tested traveler who arrives on our shores is simple: Welcome Home,” Bainimarama said in a post on Facebook.
Source-CTV News
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