For being basically a one-party state, Hawaii's politicians have been absolutely horrible when it comes to aligning COVID-19 strategies. No one can seem to agree on ANYTHING. So, as Hawaii Lt Governor outlines his reopening plan, take his plan with a huge grain of salt. … [Read more...] about Hawaii Lt Governor Outlines His Reopening Plan
pandemic travel
Hawaii Adds South Korea to Safe Travels Program
So far, Hawaii allows pre-travel testing only for travelers from the mainland US and Japan. That will soon change, though, as Hawaii adds South Korea to the Safe Travels program. But, much like the Japanese program, don't expect South Korea's inclusion to make an appreciable economic difference. … [Read more...] about Hawaii Adds South Korea to Safe Travels Program
Maui Requires AlohaSafe Alert App
With Hawaii's contact tracing app now available statewide, Maui requires the AlohaSafe Alert App for all visitors to the island. This is in addition to all other requirements, including pre-travel testing. … [Read more...] about Maui Requires AlohaSafe Alert App
US Test Requirements Go into Effect on Tuesday
Reminder: the US test requirements go into effect on Tuesday! That means if you plan on boarding a flight to the US on Monday, you must get a test. TOMORROW. Unlike the similar Hawaii model, though, there are no approved testing partners. Instead, you must obtain a specific type of test. … [Read more...] about US Test Requirements Go into Effect on Tuesday
Hawaii Requires Pre-Travel Test for Vaccinated Travelers
Have you gotten a COVID-19 vaccine already? Great! However, if you plan on visiting the islands, you should know that Hawaii still requires a pre-travel test for vaccinated travelers. And there are good, scientific reasons for this requirement. Oh, and the City reverses course on the new Hanauma Bay rules. … [Read more...] about Hawaii Requires Pre-Travel Test for Vaccinated Travelers
Hawaii Pre-Travel Testing Fails to Attract Japanese
Just as I predicted, Hawaii pre-travel testing fails to attract Japanese visitors. And, the reasons why the program failed are, mostly, due to those that I cited in my predictions. Who could've seen that coming? … [Read more...] about Hawaii Pre-Travel Testing Fails to Attract Japanese
Waikiki Clinic Reports Uptick in COVID Cases
With cases surging around the US and particularly in Hawaii's single largest source of visitors - California, it's no surprise that a Waikiki clinic reports an uptick in COVID cases. And, of course, this is especially true of travelers arriving from California. … [Read more...] about Waikiki Clinic Reports Uptick in COVID Cases
Maui Reinstates Restrictions on Restaurants
For months now, Maui has seen very low levels of infection. But, with the holidays, that changed. Average daily infection numbers jumped by over 100% from low, single-digits, to about 23 per day according to the latest figures. So, as a result, Maui reinstates restrictions on restaurants and gatherings to curb the spread. … [Read more...] about Maui Reinstates Restrictions on Restaurants
Kauai Rejoins Inter-Island Pre-Travel Testing Program
Back in December, Kauai suspended its participation in the Hawaii Safe Travels program. However, the Garden Isle is slowly opening itself back up again as Kauai rejoins the inter-island pre-travel testing program. … [Read more...] about Kauai Rejoins Inter-Island Pre-Travel Testing Program
Hawaii Shortens Its Quarantine Period
On Wednesday night, Governor David Ige announced a new emergency proclamation. As a result of his new orders, Hawaii shortens its quarantine period for those that choose not to obtain a pre-travel test. However, the new, shorter quarantine period isn't drastically shorter than the old one. … [Read more...] about Hawaii Shortens Its Quarantine Period