The health and safety of residents and visitors are top priorities for the U.S. Virgin Islands, the territory’s Department of Tourism said this week.

Addressing the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Platinum Associate Member Advisory Council last week, USVI Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte said that while the destination entered the “Open Doors” phase of its “COVID-19 Path to a New Normal” last week, the rollout would be a careful one with continued adherence to hygiene and sanitization measures.

Boschulte said the Department of Tourism will continue to bolster its awareness efforts as his team strengthens dialogue with cruise and airline partners concerning itinerary planning and public health protocols.

“We believe that our successful reintroduction into the leisure market is going to be defined by clear education and shared expectations among guests, residents and the business community,” he said.

Commissioner Boschulte said that the unprecedented changes brought on by the coronavirus pandemic are dramatically affecting tourism — but that he is seeing some “bright signs” on the horizon. 

“The continental United States will continue to be the top draw for future business [and] a steady flow of traffic is envisaged based on high interest and pent-up demand during the COVID-19 shutdown,” he stated.

The return of airlift, the reopening of hotels and resorts, the resumption of the cruise industry and the collective management of this public health crisis are factors that will affect the territory’s recovery, he reported.

Commissioner Boschulte believes that COVID-19 remains the decisive factor. 

“The reality is that until the virus is under control and efficient systems are in place to restore confidence in travel, it’s simply too soon to tell when we can expect travelers to start booking again,” said Boschulte. “The USVI is uniquely placed in that we are part of the United States and no passport is required for U.S. citizens.”

“As the U.S. Virgin Islands reopens its tourism industry to leisure visitors, we will continue to focus on protecting lives and livelihoods,” Boschulte said. “The road ahead will be challenging, but the Territory is no stranger to challenges. By working together we will make it through these difficult times, and journey through this period to a new day of normalcy.”

— CJ