Antigua and Barbuda tourism chiefs have highlighted Covid-19 protocols in place for visitors and reiterated that the islands remain ‘open for business’.

The Caribbean islands have remained on the UK government’s safe list of countries that do not require a 14-day quarantine period on return, although a negative PCR test is required before travel.

Other protocols in place include a requirement to wear face masks where social distancing is not possible.

Unlike other Caribbean nations such as Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda is not categorising source destinations by risk levels.

There are currently 13 hotels open in Antigua, with 23 set to open in the next two months. Direct flights are currently operated by British Airways, with Virgin Atlantic due to resume services from October 26.

Colin James, chief executive of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, said: “Antigua has no plans to categorise countries in a bid to stop them from visiting its shores, including those travelling from the UK.

“We were one of the first islands in the Caribbean to open, and the regime we have in place is working well for us. The government has recently introduced trained monitors to spot-check all properties and tourism facilities to ensure the protocols are being adhered to which is paramount to rebuilding safe tourism.

“We look forward to welcoming more UK visitors who meet the existing protocol guidelines to our 365 beaches soon.”