At the end of June, we wrote a blog about a pre-travel testing program in lieu of being subject to the 14-day quarantine period that was slated to go into effect on August 1, 2020. However, a spike in positive COVID-19 case pushed back the launch of the program.
Now, a few months on from the initial launch of the pre-travel testing program, Maui and the rest of the Hawaiian island chain are slated to welcome back trans-pacific visitors on October 15th under the state’s official pre-travel testing program. It has been nearly five months since the 14-day mandatory quarantine has been in place and it is a welcome change as many parts of the local economy has felt the impacts of Hawaii’s lack of visitors.
While the exact details of how the program will work and how to complete a test prior to traveling are up in the air, Maui County continues to prepare for the highly anticipated program. Mayor Victorino has stated the county is busy working with the hospitality industry to ensure workers feel safe and secure with new protocols. They are also working on making COVID-19 testing more readily available, ensuring emergency services are properly staffed, and prepping the contact tracing team.
Kauai is the first to take the lead in launching a “resort bubble” program that will allow visitors to travel freely among pre-approved “resort bubble” properties. Maui is also considering a similar program with the exact details are also still unclear.
Regardless, the Valley Isle will need to reopen Maui at full capacity including schools, gyms, beaches, parks, and the economy to Maui’s welcome visitors.
While a spike in positive cases is inevitable, the best risk management practices call for mitigation:
- Wear your mask.
- Physical distance to six feet at minimum preferably ten feet.
- Wash your hands for 30 seconds.
- Mind your wellness and be considerate of others. If feeling ill, do not go out.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces as much as possible.
Contact a Maui Real Estate and Lifestyle Specialist
Please consider me to be your trusted Maui Real Estate and Lifestyle Advisor. I was born and raised on the island, and spend a considerable amount of time to inform my clients about the best deals currently on the market. Please do not hesitate to call me for your Maui real estate needs. I am more than happy to assist you in your home search.
Aloha,
Anthony Sayles R(S)
808-280-6532