Maldives launches 3V Program. Visit, vaccine, vacation all included
The Maldives is poised to make its debut in the vaccine tourism industry. This phenomenon is more than ever [...]
The Maldives is ready to make its debut in the vaccination tourism. This phenomenon is more real than ever and has exploded in Europe and around the world. Considering how the "hunt for the vaccine" is critical to succeeding in moving closer to a return to normalcy, it is no wonder that so many are willing to travel far from home to obtain the inoculation.
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It is not yet possible to leave for the Maldives, indulge in a rejuvenating vacation and, moreover, get a free vaccine, but it will be soon. The announcement came from the Minister of the Interior, which underscores how concrete the project is. The idea is to launch a "3V Program", or the three "v's" program: visit, vaccine and vacation. In case anyone needs an additional reason to travel to the Maldives paradise, here it is served on a silver platter.
The words of the minister of tourism Abdulla Mausoom bode well for tourists and locals alike, with the Maldives aiming in every way to reach its goal of 1.5 million visitors in 2021. To date, statistics indicate about 350,000 travelers, mainly from India.
However, it is not possible to look at the "3V Program" without first taking care of the residents. It is this that prevents, at the moment, providing an official date for the start of vaccinations for tourists: "We aim to provide a reasonably safe tourist experience, with a minimum amount of inconvenience, related to the particular condition. About 90% of the tourist staff placed at the frontline have received at least the first dose. Once the entire country is vaccinated, it will be possible to proceed with tourists."
Current statistics point out that about 51.5% of residents, received the first dose, while only 4.8% received both. Additional vaccines are on the way from Singapore, stressed Mausoom, who explained how doses have come from India, China, and the international Covax program. For now, access continues to be restricted. All new arrivals must present a negative test, conducted within 96 hours prior to departure.
Not just Maldives: which countries vaccinate tourists
There is an alternative to waiting for the vaccine in Italy. More and more countries continue to try to jumpstart the tourism industry with the surplus doses in their possession. A clear example is that of the Serbia. A population of 7 million, with the mass immunization process proceeding excellently. To date, statistics point out that 38 out of 100 citizens have gotten their dose. That is why the green light has been given to vaccinating tourists, with reservations left on Jan. 11.
From April 1, the Russia suspended travel restrictions for foreign nationals, triggering a large number of reservations. The Sputnik V vaccine is provided free of charge by the government to all applicants, Russian or otherwise, which has prompted several tourist agencies to roll up their sleeves. Many, from Italy and beyond, are booking short stays generally ranging from 3 to 7 days. During this time, visitors receive their first dose, only to have to return to Russia after three weeks.
Another paradise destination that intends to revive the tourism industry thanks to the vaccine is the Republic of Mauritius. One of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world, located in the heart of the southwestern Indian Ocean. The government has announced that it has expanded its vaccination plan to all long-term international visitors over the age of 18. The reference is to those who will opt for the "premium" package, for a stay of at least 180 days.
