Vancouverites can visit Hawaii from October 15th

Dreaming of surf, sand and fun in the sun?

While sipping on a refreshing cocktail in the tropics may seem tempting, the Canadian government advises you to think twice before booking a ticket to heaven. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, governments that open their borders to tourists can suddenly impose stricter travel restrictions, making it harder for you to return home.

Visiting Aloha State for your next vacation is the latest update to a slightly easier travel advice.

On September 16, Hawaii Governor David Ige announced the launch of the state pre-travel testing program on October 15, allowing trans-Pacific travelers to visit the island state without being restricted on arrival. They must get the test before arrival and show proof of a negative test no earlier than 72 hours before departure.

The test must be the Nucleic Acid Amplification Test or the NAAT test performed in a CLIA-certified laboratory.

జ Announcement from the Hawaii Department of Transportation “Evidence of a negative test result must be provided upon arrival in Hawaii. Without this, outbound passengers will be subject to 14 days detention. Passengers will be liable for the cost prior to departure. The test will not be provided upon arrival at the airport.”

Passengers should check their temperatures as they arrive and fill out the travel and health form.

Canadians returning from Hawaii face up to 14 days in detention when they return home.

Of course, the program is set to begin on August 1, but the rise in COVID-19 cases has prompted the state to delay the launch date.

Hawaii Airlines began to increase Number of flights to islands In preparation for the new program.

While many travelers are eager to return to island paradise without mandatory detention, many critics are concerned that the pre-trial program could lead to an increase in cases.

Honolulu Civil Beat Lt. Gov. Josh Green told the Associated Press that the state is launching the program with urgency: “By the end of 2020, Hawaii will see 8,000 and 10,000 daily trans-Pacific traffic.

Although Canadians are not barred from traveling to the United States, the government strongly urges them to stay away from unnecessary trips outside the country until further notice.

Additionally, Health Canada does not recommend that you take a COVID-19 test unless you have symptoms of the virus. Since a negative result is required for a Hawaiian pre-testing program, this is contrary to public health advice.

According to a measure from the British Columbia government, all travelers from outside Canada are required to submit a self-contained plan, regardless of their final destination. Learn more about the need for self-isolation planning in the province Here. The plan can be submitted online Here Or at the self-assessment tool, through the BC COVID-19 Support App or in person when arriving at the YVR. It should show that returning passengers have 14 days of safe self-isolation support.