Antigua and Barbuda tourism and health officials will meet this week to discuss “protocols” which will be implemented for a potential resumption of business in the destination.

“The idea is safety for all the people, the employees and the guests as well, hence the reason why we are collaborating to ensure that every best practice possible to prevent any spread of Covid-19 is instituted.” said Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez.

The Minister said “hopefully the government will relax the aspect of access to the beach as that is a very important part of our product offering and in this time a lot of our visitors will be coming to enjoy the sea and sun which may be deemed as necessary and therapeutic to fight the scourge of Covid-19.”

Fernandez met last week with members of the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association to discuss the “way forward” amid the COVID-19 crisis.

Fernandez also toured the Sandals Grande resort to see the status of the property.

Antigua officials said Sandals was set to launch a “timed” reopening plan of some of the brand’s Caribbean properties.

Like large brands such as Marriott, Sandals will reportedly be launching hygiene protocols.

— CJ