Despite safety concerns aired over easing out travel restrictions, including compulsory quarantine, Hawaii officials still press for the reopening of tourism.

Since the 26th of March, Hawaii required every tourist to self-quarantine for 14 days before enjoying the sceneries and beauty of the state. However, a new tourism program launched in October 15, saw to the lifting of the mandatory quarantine. In its stead, Hawaii will rely on the Pre-Travel Testing Program, with which tourists only need to show proof that they have been pre-tested as negative of the Coronavirus, to be able to enter and visit the state.

What Does Hawaii’s Pre-Travel Testing Program Include?

Hawaii’s Pre-Travel Testing Program,  aims to promote and encourage tourism by eliminating the need for visitors to spend 14 days in quarantine before they can enjoy their Hawaii vacation. The program simply requires travelers from ages five and older to take a Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) from a laboratory certified by Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) within 72 hours before their final flight to Hawaii.

In some places though, it takes a week before results are obtained, while in others, results can be obtained on the same day. That is why Hawaii’s Pre-Travel Testing Program will accept travelers who present negative results issued only by testing laboratories approved and accredited as partners of Hawaii’s Department of Health. Some examples of accredited testing labs include Bartell Drugs, AFC Urgent Care, Carbon Health and 8 other partners listed as such in the state’s HawaiiCovid19.com website. .

The program also requires every Hawaii bound tourist to fill up an online form and provide information about their health and other travel details, within 24 hours before boarding their flight to Hawaii.

Upon arrival at the airport, every incoming tourist will have to provide similar information in an online Safe Travel Form. In doing so, they will be receiving a QR code through their email, which can be scanned by mobile phone or printed on a paper. The purpose of which is to enable Hawaii authorities to easily contact-trace every tourist during their visit in case the need arises. Those who do not have an email address or a communications gadget can be assisted by their accompanying relatives or companions. .

Still, Hawaii’s tourism website gives notification that the rules and procedures can still evolve as updates are still ongoing.