How Caribbean Resorts Have Changed Protocols to Ensure the Safety of their Guests

Warm weather, sandy beaches and outdoor attractions for all ages, Caribbean islands like Jamaica, Barbados and St. Lucia are ideal destinations for Canadians seeking a winter escape. Over the last year, all-inclusive hotels across the region have implemented rigorous health and safety protocols at their respective properties to protect their staff and guests.

If you’re planning a winter getaway, here are some of the ways the Caribbean’s top resorts are working to ensure you have a safe and sun-filled holiday.

Standardized health and hygiene measures

Many Caribbean hotels have introduced their own guidelines to give guests peace of mind while on vacation. Play Hotels & Resorts, which operates Hyatt, Hilton and Jewel Resorts, launched the Playa Stay Safe initiative in May 2020. Hyatt’s Global Care and Cleanliness Commitment and Hilton’s CleanStay program provide guests an added level of trust. Along with strict sanitization measures, contactless check-in and socially distanced dining options, there’s also a 24-hour medical team on site to care for guests.

Sandals Resorts has been praised for its industry-leading Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness. Improved housekeeping measures ensure a sanitized environment for guests. Common area surfaces such as bars, pools, the fitness centre, spa or vending machines are subject to a daily triple-check system with cleaning and disinfection every hour or less.

Guests staying at AMResorts brands like Zoëtry, Secrets and Dreams will see the CleanComplete Verification program in action. Under these corporate-wide protocols, hospitality workers are required to complete intensive safety training, wear protective face coverings and have their temperature checked before each shift.

Digital upgrades

To reduce touch points, hotels have implemented digital solutions to replace many close-contact interactions. Convenient online check-in services allow guests to skip lineups at the front desk and head straight to their room upon arrival. Instead of hard-copy maps, brochures and forms, digital QR codes can be scanned with your mobile device to access important resort information.

Advanced sanitization protocols

Cleanliness is a top priority for Caribbean resorts. Increased sanitization measures in rooms and common areas like fitness centres, spas and recreational facilities. Surfaces are regularly disinfected and guests are encouraged to take advantage of the many hand sanitizer stations placed by entryways, elevators and other high-traffic areas.

New food and beverage services

Guests will still have access to a range of culinary options during their stay, but with a few modifications. Standard buffets where diners can help themselves have been reimagined with attentive servers. Hands-free menus are now displayed on screens or accessible via QR code. Individually packaged, ready-to-go food items are another option.

Safe socializing for groups and events

If you’re travelling with a group, events may be subject to capacity limits based on each island’s local public health requirements. Resorts are facilitating weddings, conferences and other functions by staggering arrivals and departures, as well as providing groups with separate concierge desks. Public spaces have also been redesigned to allow social distancing with directional markers in high traffic areas to help reduce crowding.

Plan your next vacation

To plan your own Caribbean getaway, speak with an experienced CAA Travel Consultant or call 1-800-992-8143. They can also advise you on travel insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses or recoup costs if you need to cancel.

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