Nine months after the 1st case of Covid-19 hit the island and was completely shut down for 3.5 months, Aruba’s tourism and economy is picking up bit by bit. Borders had been reopened for US Travelers, Europeans, and as per December 1st, 2020 we welcomed back our visitors of Latin America, South America and the rest of the Caribbean with the exception of Venezuela. Rules and protocols are being reviewed and evaluated on a daily basis and adapted as per current situation by a crisis team, in order to protect each and everyone visiting and inhabiting our island.
There are currently 132 active covid cases on the island. 108 residents and 24 non-residents. There are 6 persons hospitalized of which 2 of them are in the Intensive care unit. A total of 55.719 persons have been tested of which 28.638 were tested at the airport. 45 persons lost the battle against Covid-19.
Due to the amount of increase in cases these last days the Government of Aruba took some additional measurements in order to stop the spread as quickly as possible.
These are the decisions taken by the Government of Aruba up till today:
- Restaurants can now have a maximum of eight seats per table indoors and 10 per table outdoors. (No more 14 and 20). Tables must be at least 1.5 meters apart. Customers need to remain seated and face coverings must be worn when standing, going to use the restroom, entering and exiting the premises.
- Bars and rum shops must be closed if they are not offering food
- Live music is permitted but now with a maximum of three musicians inside and outside. Covid protocols must be followed (no dancing and proper social distancing) or music will stop. If people start to dance, musicians and establishments must stop the music immediately.
- In supermarkets and stores only one person per family can enter and must wear a mask and maintain social distance.
- Events and family gatherings are limited to a maximum of 30 people inside and 60 people outside while wearing masks, social distancing, and no dancing.
- Funerals are limited to 30 people maximum inside the building while social distancing and wearing masks.
- For locals who return from traveling abroad, it is suggested to quarantine for 10 days and even if testing negative to not gather with other family members for 10 days.
- Curfew is no longer in effect, however you are not allowed to be on the beach and gathering on public parking spaces between 12am-5am.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.
- Masks are now mandatory in all locations (interior) and also on public transport.
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.
