Maldives has reopened its mesmerising beaches, clear waters and posh hotels to international tourists (yes, even for American travellers). However, for the first few weeks, only the private islands and live-aboard stays will be accessible to tourists. From August 1, 2020, they will be able to appreciate the island's picturesque guest houses and hotels too.
And this time, the island will be a tad cheaper than the exorbitantly priced vacation destination it was before. Earlier, tourists needed to book vacations no shorter than 14 days. They also had to apply for a tourist visa, which cost another $100. That's not all. They had to submit either a negative antigen test or a positive antibody test, a week before their arrival. And after arrival, they had to pay another $100 for tests. And they would be quarantined for a maximum of 12 hours.
Now travellers will not have to show a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. And people who don&rsquot have symptoms will not be quarantined. Also, there are no new visa requirements or additional fees to be paid.
Government guidelines say that you can only visit the resort islands and you will need to book your stay in one registered establishment. The only exemption will be for transit arrangements.
Some of the establishments have already opened their doors to travellers, like the Lily Beach Resort and Spa, Velaa Private Island Maldives, Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah.
