If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, you might have heard about the resort bubble concept that has been implemented in some parts of the state. It’s an innovative approach to tourism that aims to keep visitors and locals safe during the ongoing pandemic. In this article, we’ll discuss what the resort bubble is, how it works, and what it means for your upcoming vacation.
What is a Resort Bubble?
A resort bubble is essentially a designated area within a hotel or resort where visitors are confined for a certain period of time. It’s an alternative to Hawaii’s mandatory quarantine rule, which requires travelers to stay in their hotel rooms for 10 days upon arrival in the state. The idea behind the resort bubble is to provide a more enjoyable experience for visitors while also minimizing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
How Does It Work?
To participate in the resort bubble program, travelers must meet certain requirements. Firstly, they must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to their departure for Hawaii.
Secondly, they must book their stay at one of the participating hotels or resorts that offer the resort bubble program. These hotels have been approved by Hawaii’s Department of Health and have implemented strict safety protocols.
Once visitors arrive at their designated hotel or resort, they will be required to wear a tracking bracelet or monitor app that ensures they stay within the designated area. They are not allowed to leave until their confinement period is over (usually 3 days), unless it’s for medical emergencies or pre-approved activities such as outdoor excursions.
During their confinement period, visitors can enjoy all the amenities and services provided by their hotel or resort such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants. However, they cannot interact with anyone outside of their travel party or designated hotel staff.
- Benefits
The main benefit of the resort bubble program is that it allows visitors to enjoy their vacation without having to stay confined to their room for 10 days. They can still experience Hawaii’s beautiful scenery, warm weather, and local culture while minimizing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
Another benefit is that it provides a much-needed boost to Hawaii’s tourism industry, which has been severely impacted by the pandemic. By offering an alternative to the mandatory quarantine rule, more visitors are likely to consider traveling to Hawaii.
- Drawbacks
One potential drawback of the resort bubble program is that it may not be affordable for all visitors. Participating hotels and resorts may charge additional fees for the program, which could add up to a significant amount.
Another drawback is that visitors are still required to take a COVID-19 test before traveling and follow certain safety protocols during their confinement period. While these measures are necessary for public health, they may be inconvenient or restrictive for some travelers.
Conclusion
Overall, the resort bubble concept is an innovative approach to tourism that aims to balance public health and economic recovery. By offering visitors an alternative to the mandatory quarantine rule, Hawaii can attract more tourists while minimizing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. However, it’s important for travelers to carefully consider the requirements and benefits before participating in the program.