Welcome to Harbour Island
š Coral Sands Hotel, Harbour Island
Dress || Sandals || Clutch || Bracelet
Welcome to The Bahamas! After a half-day of travel yesterday, we finally made it to our final destination of Harbour Island. I have been dreaming of visiting this tiny island for years. Although weāve been here for less than 24 hours, so far it hasnāt disappointed! Throughout our stay, Iāll be showing off every corner of the island. Before that, I want to address the number one question that Iām sure will ariseā¦ Traveling during COVID. While it seems like weāre on the tail end, itās still something to keep in mind. No matter where we are, we always have our mask, hand sanitizer in hand, and social distance when we can. If youāre hoping to visit The Bahamas for yourself over the next few months, here are some things youāll want to consider.
Before You Travel
Because of its proximity to the United States, The Bahamas is typically a destination where you can just book and go. However, due to the pandemic, there have been major updates to travel protocols to keep the islands and their locals safe. You want to make sure you give yourself enough time to check all of the boxes. Number one, you need to have a Negative PCR Test no more than 5 days before you arrive. This was the most nerve-wracking aspect because I know, in the past, the results have taken a substantial amount of time. Luckily, we had our results in about 48 hours. From there, you apply for a Health Visa to upload your travel plans and test results. Again, this takes about another 48 hours. It’s a lot of moving parts, but it was surprisingly seamless. Be sure to visit The Bahamas Tourism for more details and specifics.
While On The Island
Masks and hand sanitizing are non-negotiable, but in my opinion, that’s a good way to be. Always have your mask on as you enter a business and you will also be asked to sanitize your hands too. From there, you’re pretty much free to move about the island as you normally would. If your trip extends more than 5 days, you are required to have an additional COVID test for good measure. This is just as well because US residents also need a negative test to reenter the country. Again, a lot of things to consider, but if you plan ahead it should all go without a hitch. The cottage we’re renting, which I plan on sharing after our stay, just happens to be around the corner from Harbour Island’s only medical center. Depending on where you’re staying, there may be a concierge service where the testing can come directly to your hotel.
Things to Remember
Because this is a small island, resources are finite, but they greatly rely on tourism as their main industry. As an American visiting, please remember that this is their home. The island and the people should be treated with the utmost respect. In the US, COVID restrictions look very different from state to state. You may not be used to things being strictly enforced. Thinking of Florida, I know that regulations even vary by city. Since St. Pete has been very proactive in their response, following Bahamian guidelines doesn’t feel any different than what we’re used to. Besides, do you really want to be that tourist who’s causing a scene?
After over 365 days of uncertainty, travel is finally returning to the forefront of our minds. Admittedly, the first big trip may seem a little scary. Half of me almost feels guilty for being here in the first place. The other half of me, clearly the side that won, is just so thankful! Number one, I’m thankful for our health and good fortune to be able to make a trip in the first place. As we approached The Bahamas and got my first glimpse of the turquoise blue waters, I almost felt like crying. I’m so relieved for a change in scenery and an amazing husband who will always travel with me along the way.
Love from Harbour Island,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.
