Monthly Archives: September 2021

After a 17-month break, Oasis of the Seas returns to cruise service. The first post-pandemic commercial cruise was launched on Sunday from Bayonne, New York.

Based in New York for the first time, the ship now offers a series of seven-night voyages to the Bahamas.

Oasis will make weekly visits to Nassau, Port Canaveral, and Perfect Day on CocoCay Royal Caribbeans private island in the Bahamas until the end of October. Home to North Americas highest water slides, the popular CocoCay has unique attractions and saw a $250 million transformation in 2019.

Following the New York program, the Oasis will be relocating to Miami for the winter season. The ship is sailing on different itineraries to the eastern and western Caribbean by December, including stops in Mexico, Honduras, and St Maarten and Puerto Rico.

One of the worlds biggest cruise ships, the 2009 Oasis of the Seas has a capacity for over 5,400 guests.

Built in Finland, the ship has introduced a groundbreaking design illuminated by features such as Central Park, a park with real plants surrounded by shops and restaurants.

The ship also divided its public areas into seven different zones, known as quarters. Each of them has a different appeal, with unique attractions. BoardWalk reproduces, for example, a coastal pier with a carousel, carnival games, shops and food.

The Oasis of the Seas was also the first ship with a dance-water theatre, a zip line and a moving bar.

In 2019, the ship underwent a $ 165 million renovation in Spain as part of the Royal Amplification Program.

After a period of two months in Drydock, the ship came out with new additions, such as the highest slide on the sea Ultimate Abyss; The Perfect Storm Trio of Water Slippers; a reimagined Caribbean Pool Deck; and new children and youth places.

The Oasis of the Seas is the 14th Royal Caribbean cruise to resume services since the COVID-19 pandemic break. The ship is also the tenth for operators in the United States to return to service after Freedom of the Seas became the first ship in July. With a fleet of 25 ships, Royal Caribbean plans to have 21 cruises in service by the end of 2021.

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Oasis of the Seas resumes services, likely to make stop in Bahamas, St Maarten - WIC News

NASSAU, BAHAMAS Tim Disney, artist and entrepreneur, yesterday added his voice to the Stop Disney Last Chance for Lighthouse Point Campaign in opposing Disney Cruise Lines (DCL) plans for Eleuthera.

Commenting on a statement released by the campaign yesterday, Disney said: Walt Disney Studios, co-founded by my grandfather, produced some of the first and best nature documentaries.

As a child, I watched my father work on many of them. I am proud of that legacy and acknowledge the companys generally good record of environmental responsibility over the years.

Thus, it is heartbreaking to witness Disney Cruise Lines failure to honor this legacy in regard to its proposed cruise ship port at Lighthouse Point in Eleuthera.

The Disney companys appalling decision to lobby against the proposed reconciliation legislation before the US Congress, which contains provisions essential to seriously address climate change, give the lie to anything Disney may say about its standing as a responsible steward of the environment in Eleuthera, or anywhere for that matter.

Disney enjoys, and profits from, a special position of trust in the culture. With that comes an opportunity, indeed an obligation, to demonstrate leadership on this most important issue.

I join the call on Disneys leaders to reconsider their behavior in The Bahamas, and here in the United States, and to ask themselves if a few percentage points of personal and corporate tax rates are worth sabotaging our best and maybe last chance to seriously address the present calamity of climate change.

The Stop Disney Last Chance for Lighthouse Point Campaign, in its statement, urged the next Bahamian government that will be elected on September 16 to undertake a formal reevaluation of DCLs plans for a cruise ship port at Lighthouse Point on Eleuthera.

The campaign asked that DCL be required to supplement its March 2021 environmental impact assessment (EIA) with additional disclosure of information, analyses and consultations.

It is now clear that Disney Cruise Line wants to ram through environmental approval of its proposed $400 million cruise ship port at Lighthouse Point in Eleuthera sadly with the full support of the Bahamian Ministry of the Environment and Housing, said the campaign.

Disneys EIA fails to address adequately critical issues about the project, including the economics and alternatives.

The statement called attention to the comments of The Bahamas National Trust on the EIA which were allegedly omitted entirely from Disneys Public Consultation Report.

The BNT made clear its opposition to the project and stated that the best use of this area would be for the land and surrounding marine environment to be established as a protected area.

Lighthouse Point is of world-renowned outstanding beauty worthy of world heritage status and is currently listed as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA), the campaign said.

The rest is here:

Disney family member joins environmentalists in calling for Disney to do better in The Bahamas - EyeWitness News

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Our family own travel agencies in northern New Jersey and have had a long association with The Bahamas, including being part time residents.

We always had strong bookings for your country to both Nassau and the Out Islands. However COVID-19 changed everything. There are now two worlds for travel to The Bahamas. There is a fantasy world propagated by your Tourism Minister and a real world where it is difficult to get clients to travel to you. According to your Minister tourism is rebounding strongly, massive bookings are forthcoming and cruises will return to record numbers soon.

Unfortunately these rosy predictions are not what we are seeing in our agencies. The introduction of the Health Visa has killed off most interest when nearly all other resort destinations are far easier to enter without all the red tape and expense of the Visa. After eighteen months of restrictions people are unwilling to go through all the red tape you require just to come for a holiday. We understand that the Visa has just become a money making operation for the Government and those associated with the payment system. The Bahamian Tourist officials always declare they work with travel partners. There was no evidence of any consultation before your harsh entry rules were introduced which actually punish visitors with all the roadblocks.

Your Minister says the Visa must stay because he does not trust airline agents at check in to properly verify double vaccination certificates. There are no problems with these certificates at any of our local airports.

As to his predictions of massive cruise numbers returning very few of our clients want to go on any cruise anytime soon. They fear for their health in such close surroundings. As of today we have very few bookings for cruises and sadly no bookings for The Bahamas through to spring. It has gone from our most popular destination to the lowest in interest.

Your Tourism Minister has to leave the fantasy world and face the real world where your chief economic activity is being severely damaged by policies which are deterring rather than encouraging your all important tourist numbers. The Health Visa has to go and you must return to previous entry rules immediately.

JOHN LANCASTER

Princeton, New Jersey,

USA

September 6, 2021.

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Have rethink on travel rules, please - Bahamas Tribune

By Alexander Cole

Back in 2020,Ice Cubehad big aspirations for his BIG3 basketball league. After starting in 2017,theoperation saw three successful seasons that drew in larger and larger crowds with each game. The BIG3 was becoming the premier destination for 3-on-3 professional basketball, and its product was unique enough to set itself apart from every other basketball league in the world. Heading into what would have been last season, the league was ready to change the product further thanks to its new Fireball3 rules package, which would allow coaches to challenge fouls and have a one-on-one showdown called Bring The Heat, as opposed to the usual free throw.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 forced the league to shut down for a year which prompted Ice Cube to come up with new ways to keep the BIG3 going. For instance, there were rumors that Cube would executive produce a reality show in which all of the leagues players live in one big house where they also play tournaments for cash prizes. It was an ambitious idea that never came to fruition, however, Cube still had massivehopes for 2021, and he was able to execute big time.

One of Cubes big goals was to have the BIG3 play in international markets, and 2021 was the perfect opportunity to get that done with travel opening up overseas. Early this season,Cube announced that the playoffs and championship game would be played at the Atlantis Paradise Island resort in Nassau, Bahamas, which was certainly great motivation for the leagues players to give it their all. On Saturday, September 4th, the championship game was played between the 3 Headed Monsters and the Trilogy. It was the Trilogy who came out on top,thanks to the heroics of Jarrett Jack, and the coaching of Stephen Jackson.

While we were there, we got to catch up withIce Cube, who spoke to us about his love for the game, the challenges of growing a brand new league, and why he ultimately chose the Bahamas as the host country forthe BIG3s fourth championship game.

This interview has been edited for clarity.

HNHH: So firstly, you created the BIG3 about four years ago. What was your main goal when you first started the league?

Ice Cube:Just as a fan, want to see guys I know who had honed these skills to the highest level, continue to play at a high level. I knowwiththe NBA, sometimes its not even an age thing, its a numbers game, and you have fifteen people on the team. So you have a lot of talent on the sidelines, and to have a league where they can display that, entertain the people in the summer, because if youre not a baseball fan, soccer, golf, you know, or preseason football, youre not really being satisfied in the summer. I knew that there was a kind of a void in the industry and a league done the right way will work.

For sure, and seeing the growth of the league, how do you feel like youve do you feel like youve reached that goal, or are you getting close to it?

I think with a league you just want to continue to gain more and more fans. I dont know if theres a goal to reach in a way. Its keep people interested in the league, continue to grow the league, make sure the league, you know, comes back year after year, develop a fan base, grow the fan base. Theres like 10, 20 years of work ahead of us, you know what I mean, to make sure this league has its roots in the ground. With something like this, its an ongoing project, thats never, you should never be satisfied, we should always want more.

You have built a pretty large fanbase so far, What are some of the rules and elements of the BIG3 that you really think that have you know, helped grow the fanbase, and sustain the fanbase as well.

We have some great rules, the big ones are a four-point shot for points circles. Also the one shot free throws, instead of two shots. You know, somebody is taking the three-pointer, nobody wants to see him shoot three free throws, you know, so its one for three, one for two. And if youre shooting four, nobody definitely wanna see four free throws, so its one for four. No time clock. So first50 win,you have to win by two, but we have a shot clock, so cant just hold the ball. You gotta shoot it, you gotta get it up there, so it moves very fast. You can see a BIG3 game in an hour, where in the NBA, it takes about two and a half, three, before the game is over, so its a fast moving game, and I think its good, perfect, for the new sports fan who dont have a lotta time.

And this year you implemented the Fireball3 Package. What kind of prompted you guys to go with that?

Well, we got a rule presented by Taco Bell called Bring the Fire. And its a rule where a coach can challenge a foul, a shooting foul, once a half. And instead of the foul, they had the guys go one-on-one for the call, so if you make it, good basket. If you miss it, foul comes off the board. I think its what the fans wanna see, you know, not referees controlling the game, but the actual players in control of their own fate. So its a great rule, people love when the best players go one-on-one, you know, even in the NBA, they love to see it so, you have this ruleuniquefor the BIG3 is perfect.

You were saying youre such a massive sports fan. So what has it been like being able to grow the league and watch it come together like this?

Its been very fun, just seeing the league develop, just seeing the graphics, seeing the teams, seeing fans in the jerseys, fans in the t-shirts. Knowing that the league is growing organically, also that young people love the league. You know, young people play3-on-3 a lot, at school or on playgrounds, backyards, so its a young game, its new, its fresh, and Im proud of it.

You mentioned 3-on-3, obviously, it became part of the Olympics this year and its much different rules than FIBA, but do you feel like maybe the BIG3 helped really popularize3-on-3 basketball and make it more of something that people wanna watch day in and day out?

No doubt. You know, if you look at the history, theyve been around for a long time, FIBA. 3-on-3, which is that amateur version of 3-on-3.But it wasnt until we announced, in 2017 that we was going to make a professional version of three on three, that the Olympics finally came around and said this is a sport that they wanted to adapt. What we do in the Big Three is a lot different than what they doing in FIBA. BIG3 I think is a better game to play and a better game to watch, and were proud to have the best3-on-3 league in the world, so its cool what theyre doing, that comes around every four years. We come around every year. So get with us.

You guys have been in the Bahamas for about a week now. What sparked the decision to have the finals in an international location?

Just go outside and look around, you know. [Laughs]

Its a beautiful location. Players are excited. In 2020 and 2019, we had gone to 18 different cities in the States, so to be able to go international with the league is something thats part of our plan. We went to Toronto, we had a plan to go to China before the pandemic. So this is where we wanna be, we want to, you know, do our championship in some of the best places, most exotic places in the world. Big basketball towns. You know, we do want to reward the best teams in our league.

And did you find that the players maybe put in a little bit extra effort into it at the end of the season, you know, to get that trip over here?

Without a doubt. Theyve been talking about it all season. And I always say if they didnt, if they didnt want to play hard, they wives and their girlfriends would make them play hard to get over here for that, you know, free paid vacation. So its been a great time for our league coming back after the pandemic to cap it off with champagne in the Bahamas, like why not?

So where do you see the league in 5 to 10 years from now?

More teams. Were working on what we call the Big Cup, which is like the World Cup, but for 3-on-3 basketball. We invite countries from all over the world, submit teams and play the BIG3 rules. See whos the best in the world for real. And you know, just grow the brand, grow the fan base, make our sponsors happy. Make our partners, our players, and coaches, happy.

Well thank you very much for taking the time.

No problem.

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Via Hot New Hip Hop: Ice Cube Talks Growing The BIG3, Playing In The Bahamas, & Popularizing 3-On-3 Basketball BIG3 - BIG3 Basketball

The Bahamas tourism product will be strengthened through an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) tie-up with European and regional experts to develop certification systems that bolster sustainable practices.

The technical co-operation between the IDB, Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) and the Ministry of Tourism has hired a group of specialists from Europe and the Caribbean to analyse, recommend and develop an implementation plan for sustainable tourism certification schemes in the Bahamas.

For decades, tourists have flocked to The Bahamas for the islands beautiful natural attractions and rich cultural heritage, said project lead, Rachel McCaffery, of Green Case Consulting. This plan will aim to cultivate local expertise to preserve that beauty for generations to come.

The project, which is expected to last until January 2022, will research and analyse certification systems relevant to the tourism sector in The Bahamas before recommending the most suitable certification scheme or schemes. A strategic and operational implementation plan will then be developed and validated with Bahamian stakeholders.

This technical co-operation represents a strong commitment to achieving measurable impact in the tourism industry of The Bahamas, said the IDBs Bahamas country representative, Daniela Carrera-Marquis. Tourism is the driving force of the Bahamian economy, and has registered unprecedented challenges in the last several years following Hurricane Dorian and the global pandemic.

The long-term consequences of these experiences are still unfolding, but through our Vision 2025 strategy, the IDB is committed to supporting our member countries during the recovery process. This project will build capacity in the countrys tourism industry, and foster a sustainable and inclusive recovery that maximises the efforts of the Government in The Bahamas and around the region.

Managed by the IDBs Juliana Bettini, with TDC chief executive/executive director, Janet Johnson, acting as co-ordinator, the team of sustainable tourism specialists includes Sea Going Green, a Dutch sustainable marine tourism consultancy; Green Case Consulting; a UK-based sustainable tourism specialist; Oceanic Global, a US-based non-profit and sustainability verification programme, and climate change experts JF Clarke Consulting from Barbados. Involved in project delivery are three highly experienced Bahamian sustainable tourism practitioners, Rashema Ingraham, Kendria Ferguson and Dr Jennifer Edwards.

The project aims to produce a certification programme that:

Increases the resiliency and sustainability of The Bahamas as a tourism destination.

Enhances the state of the natural environment.

Improves destination competitiveness.

Ensures that revenue from tourism reaches a greater proportion of Bahamian communities.

Positions The Bahamas as a climate-resilient destination by implementing climate risk management policies and implementation frameworks.

Certifications indicate that the business is registered with the TDC and has met the quality assurance standards necessary for the hospitality business, said Ms Johnson. Obtaining certifications for your business puts you on the cutting edge and encourages larger conglomerates to engage your services, such as cruise ships and hotels.

It is the mandate of the TDC to raise the standards of all tourism-related businesses in the islands of The Bahamas. And so, this collaboration with the IDB and all of the other experts involved will act as a springboard for the development of sustainable tourism businesses with implementation of global best practices.

Amid increasing worldwide climate change impacts, sustainable tourism has become crucial in preserving profitable coastlines and ecosystems. Certifications are considered an vital way to get an industry or destination on the same page. Certification schemes have the potential to level the playing field, ensuring that every operator is adhering to the same standards and requirements.

Once finalised, the plan will be presented via webinars to interested parties around The Bahamas.

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Sustainability initiative to boost Bahamian tourism - Bahamas Tribune

NASSAU, BAHAMAS As Larry remains a powerful hurricane in the Atlantic and meteorologists continue to track tropical developments elsewhere, The Bahamas is expected to receive strong sea swells as early as Thursday along the eastern coast of the southern Bahamas.

As the Category 3 storm moves northwest, those dangerous swells could be experienced across the archipelago by the weekend, according to meteorologists, who warned that coastal and waterfront residents should be on high alert.

Larrys movement is in a pretty good state, Department of Meteorology Senior Deputy Director Jeffrey Simmons told Eyewitness News around noon.

However, anytime we have systems passing out there like that, we could expect some serious swells coming in, and the thing about it is as Larry is just to the east of us, its really a major hurricane.

So, whats that going to mean now is were going to have a lot of swells coming out of that in the next few days.

Its definitely going to be a maritime issue. It could be an issue too for coastal residents, people who live on the waterfront. That could become a problem for them.

Its going to happen all along the archipelago, from all the way down south in Turks and Caicos and Mayaguana, all the way up into Abaco we could see some swells.

I would say probably as early as Thursday we could see some start in the south propagating up by the weekend.

As of 11am, the center of Larry was 715 miles east-northeast of the northern Leeward Islands and around 1,015 miles southeast of Bermuda.

The storm was had maximum sustained winds of 120 miles per hour.

It was traveling northwest at 10 miles per hour.

There were no coastal watches or warnings in effect on land.

The storm is expected to cause dangerous surf and rip currents along the western Atlantic shores later this week.

Swells generated by Larry are affecting the Lesser Antilles and are expected to spread westward to portions of the Greater Antilles, The Bahamas and Bermuda today through Tuesday, the National Hurricane Center said.

Significant swells should reach the east coast of the United States and Atlantic Canada by midweek and continue affecting these shores through the end of the week.

These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 70 miles from the center, and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 175 miles, according to the center.

Larry is the fifth hurricane in the 2021 Hurricane Atlantic season.

Meanwhile, a disturbance over the northern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula and the south-central Gulf of Mexico is expected to move slowly northward or northeastward over the central and then northeastern Gulf of Mexico in a few days.

It has a 30 percent chance of further development in the next five days.

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WEATHER WATCH: Dangerous swells expected as Hurricane Larry continues to barrel across the Atlantic - EyeWitness News

If you're planning to travel to the islands of the Caribbean, here's what you'll need to know and expect if you want to visit during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first thing to keep in mind is the Caribbean Sea region consists of 13 independent island nations. There are even more overseas territories. Each of them has its own rules, subject to frequent change.

Some of the islands opened back up to travel in the summer and fall of 2020. Others reopened more recently. Restrictions can vary. Some islands require quarantines, even for vaccinated travelers, while others don't even request a COVID-19 test. Rules vary depending on your country of origin.

With the spread of the Delta variant, the US Centers of Disease Control and Prevention has added more destinations to its highest risk category -- Level 4. That includes places in the Caribbean.

Also remember that hurricane season continues through November 30. Typically, the worst part of the season is mid-August through September. Islands in the southern part of the Caribbean are usually less affected by hurricanes than their more northerly neighbors. Get updates at CNN Weather.

Here's a roundup of key highlights on 10 popular Caribbean destinations, with the latest information in bold. Follow the links provided so you can find out all the crucial details and check for updates before you book a trip. Rules might change between updates to this article:

Aruba

What's on offer: Days are usually dry and sunny. Arikok National Park features caves, desert landscapes and giant lizards. Wide beaches bordering clear jade water are the big draw.

Who can go? Citizens of all countries can enter with the exception of Venezuela.

Entry requirements: All visitors 12 and older must have a negative result from a molecular COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival if coming from a high-risk country, regardless of vaccination status. This list is on Aruba's tourism website and is subject to change.

Aruba visitors health insurance is mandatory. No quarantine is in place. Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 are required to stay in mandatory isolation, however.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 4: Very high. Avoid travel to Aruba.

The Bahamas

What's on offer: The chain has 700 islands -- from the hustle and funky beats of the capital city, Nassau, on New Providence, to the peaceful beaches on many less-visited islands. You can swim with pigs or dive with sharks.

Who can go? The Bahamas is open to all international travelers.

Entry requirements: All travelers must present a negative result from a PCR test taken no more than five days before arrival, even if you're fully vaccinated. Children younger than 2 are exempt. You must fill out a health visa application and opt in to the Bahamas' COVID-19 health insurance. Unvaccinated travelers staying longer than four nights and five days must also take a rapid antigen test on day five and fill out a daily health questionnaire. You must also test for travel between various island within the Bahamas chain.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 4: Very high. Avoid travel to the Bahamas.

Barbados

What's on offer: Golf, history and architecture get visitors beyond the beach on the most easterly island in the Caribbean. Rum distilleries offer tours and the local cuisine -- a blend of African, Indian, Irish, British and Creole flavors -- will soak up the spirit.

Who can go? The island is welcoming visitors from around the world. Barbados has discontinued its Caribbean travel bubble.

Entry requirements: Both fully vaccinated travelers and the unvaccinated must present a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than three days before travel. You must upload results to the BIMSafe app.

Vaccinated travelers also take a rapid test upon arrival and quarantine for one or two days awaiting results. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for five days, take another PCR test and remain in quarantine until receiving results. You must book your room ahead of time at a government-approved accommodation (scroll down for list).

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3: High. Unvaccinated travelers should avoid nonessential travel to the Bahamas.

Cuba

What's on offer: The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba has a plethora of beaches. The romantic charm and mystique of Old Havana and the lush Viales Valley, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, set this destination apart.

Who can go? Cuba is allowing visitors from around the world to enter. The US government doesn't allow its citizens to visit Cuba for general tourism purposes. However, there are a variety of permitted reasons to visit.

Entry requirements: Visitors are required to show proof of a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days of arrival. They must take another PCR COVID-19 test upon arrival in Cuba and quarantine at a government-approved hotel. On day five, they take another COVID-19 test. No exemptions for the fully vaccinated. Cuba remains on lockdown as it has for much of the pandemic.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 4: Very high. Avoid travel to Cuba.

Curaao

Who can go? Curaao divides countries and territories -- and the travelers arriving from them -- into four categories: very low risk, low risk, high risk and very high risk. You need to check which category you're in as they may have varying requirements.

Entry requirements: All visitors except those coming from "very low risk" destinations must have negative results from a COVID-19 PCR test that's no more than 48 hours old before your flight to the island. There are no exemptions for the fully vaccinated. All travelers must fill out the passenger locator card 48 hours before arrival. No quarantines are in place unless you test positive for COVID-19 during your stay.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 4: Very high. Avoid travel to Curaao.

Dominican Republic

Who can go? Travelers around the world may enter, but depending on where you're coming from, entry requirements will differ.

Entry requirements: Travelers from many nations -- including the United States, Canada, Mexico and France, among others -- do not need a COVID-19 test to enter. But as of June 28, the DR has set up a list of nations from which you do need a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Nations on that list include Brazil, Ireland and the United Kingdom, among others. No quarantines are in place.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3: High. Make sure you are fully vaccinated before traveling to the Dominican Republic.

Jamaica

Who can go? Until September 17, anyone who has been in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, India, Paraguay, Peru or Trinidad and Tobago within 14 days of their intended date of entry will not be approved OK'd for travel.

Entry requirements: Travelers 12 and older must have a negative result from a COVID-19 molecular (PCR, NAA, RNA) or antigen test performed taken within three days of the travel date. You must fill out a travel authorization form.

Visitors are allowed to go only to "Resilient Corridors" designed specifically for tourists along with other licensed accommodations that meet COVID-19 safety standards. If you require a Covid test upon arrival, you must quarantine in your hotel or resort until you get a negative result.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 4: High. Avoid travel to Jamaica. (Added on September 7).

Puerto Rico

Who can go? Puerto Rico is a US territory. According to US State Department and CDC guidelines on international travel, people who have been in Brazil, China, the European Schengen Area, Iran, India, Ireland, South Africa and the United Kingdom in the past 14 days will be denied entry for leisure travel. Others who meet entry requirements may enter.

Entry requirements: Fully vaccinated travelers on domestic flights must upload their vaccination card to the island's online portal, which will generate a QR code. Nonvaccinated travelers on domestic flights must have a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of arrival.

International visitors, regardless of vaccination status, must have a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of arrival.

People who arrive without a test must take a COVID-19 test within 48 hours of arrival and go into quarantine awaiting results. Failure to comply could result in a $300 fine.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 4: Very high. Get fully vaccinated before traveling to Puerto Rico.

Turks and Caicos

What's on offer: This British overseas territory -- northeast of Cuba and southeast of the Bahamas -- is known for it coral reefs, ripsaw music and a low-key vibe. Whale watching, snorkeling and a range of other outdoor activities pair well with the islands' natural aquatic beauty.

Who can go? Visitors from around the world are welcomed to vacation here.

Entry requirements: You must be fully vaccinated if you're 16 or older to visit. All travelers 10 and older need a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than three days before arrival to enter. There's no quarantine on arrival. You must fill out a travel authorization form, and COVID-19 travel insurance is required as well.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3: Moderate. Unvaccinated travelers should avoid nonessential travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands.. (Update September 7).

US Virgin Islands

What's on offer: From fine dining, scuba diving and golfing on St. Croix to the pristine shores of unspoiled and undeveloped St. John, these islands have a lot to offer. In lively St. Thomas, boating and duty-free shopping are big draws.

Who can go? The USVI is a US territory. According to US State Department and CDC guidelines on international travel, people who have been in Brazil, China, the European Schengen Area, Iran, India, Ireland, South Africa and the United Kingdom in the past 14 days will be denied entry for leisure travel. Others who meet entry requirements may enter.

Entry requirements: Travelers 5 or older who enter by air or sea are required to use the USVI Travel Screening Portal and submit a COVID-19 test result before travel. You must have one of the three following to enter:

-- A negative result from a COVID-19 molecular test taken and received within five days of the start of your trip.

-- A negative result from a COVID-19 antigen test taken and received within five days of the start of your trip.

Results from COVID-19 antibody tests are no longer being accepted for entry.

No COVID-19 test is required for travel to and from the US Mainland.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 4: Very high. Get fully vaccinated before traveling to the US Virgin Islands.

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Travel to the Caribbean during COVID-19: What you need to know before you go - The Philadelphia Tribune

NASSAU, BAHAMAS Free National Movement (FNM) founding father Maurice Moore yesterday expressed his support for Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, suggesting that he has done more for The Bahamas than any other prime minister.

Moores comments came after former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham endorsed Elizabeth incumbent Dr Duane Sands in his run for the seat at a constituency event on Saturday and expressed his hopes to see Sands as prime minister one day.

On Saturday, Ingraham said he was motivated to publicly support Sands campaign because hes a good man and I think he deserves to be elected.

In an interview with Eyewitness News, Moore said he does not agree with Ingrahams public support of Sands as prime minister, which he labeled as a personal feeling.

I support the present leader of our country. He is the chosen leader of our party and it doesnt make any sense, as far as Im concerned, assenting anything that could be misunderstood, he said.

Our leader of the FNM is Dr Minnis and all of the support that ought to be given at this time ought to be given to our leader

But to suggest [Dr Sands] to the public as possible leadership, [its] controversial, as far as Im concerned. Thats Mr Ingrahams personal opinion and he has one vote thats all.

Moore expressed confidence in Minnis ability to continue to lead the country out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said the country needs a leader like Minnis at this time, particularly since the virus has overtaken the world.

We need a man of knowledge and ability in the medical field and his recommendation and his decisions on what the country must take under the circumstances, Moore added.

So, Im very happy that he is our prime minister and I hope and pray that he will be again because he has done more for The Bahamas than any other prime minister, including the former FNM prime ministers

I fully support him. I hope and pray that he is returned as the leader and winning sufficient seats that he is able to form the next government of The Bahamas.

Moore also offered well wishes to all FNM candidates in the upcoming election, noting that he hopes at least 80 percent of them win and are successful in their constituency.

I dont wish to put any special congratulations or make any special recognition for any member other than the member who is running in my constituency in Central Grand Bahama (Iram Lewis), he said.

I would like him to win as much as I would like the other four members on Grand Bahama running.

The former prime minister, hes his own man; he can do what he feels and speak out how he feels about any person whos been nominated and running, so I dont question him in doing so I wish Dr Sands would win as well.

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THAT'S ONLY ONE VOTE: FNM founding father disagrees with Ingraham's endorsement of Sands for PM - EyeWitness News

The BIG3 "Brawl in the Bahamas" will go down in league history as one of the most thrilling and remarkable games as both teams showcased their undeniable dedication to win. The 3 Headed Monsters' got off to a hot start, with Kevin Murphy ending the first half with two three-pointers to send his team to the locker room with a 26-13 lead. As the second half began, Stephen Jackson slowly wore down the 3 Headed Monsters with tactical coaching as Gary Payton ran low on substitutions.

Down by as many as 16 early in the second half, Jarrett Jack's 22 second half points and Amir Johnson's 10 points and 11 rebounds accompanied by his tough defense kept the team in the game. With the score tied at 43, Jack came up clutch again during his Taco Bell "Bring the Fire" one-on-one challenge,scoring over Kevin Murphy to take the lead. Trilogy took command when James White hit a jump shot to bring the team one step closer to victory. Jack closed it out, hitting the game-winning three-point shot, adding to his game-high 29 points and securing the title.

Trilogy showcased their immaculate ball control throughout, giving up only one turnover in comparison to 3 Headed Monsters' 13, outscoring their opponent by 18 points in the second half en route to the title win.

With a roaring crowd and a confetti covered celebration, Trilogy made BIG3 history as the first team to take home two championship titles. With a final score of 50-45, Jarrett Jack gave a tearful speech during the trophy presentation while holding his son and called upon NBA teams to give opponent Kevin Murphy a well-deserved shot.

The BIG3 had to overcome odds to make this season a success through the pandemic, doing so spectacularly. Through their in-depth testing system and strict COVID-19 protocols, the league went the final four weeks of the season without a single positive test, setting up a Championship Game for the ages.

"We've been saying all year this was the best BIG3 season yet and the Championship Game only proved our point. Trilogy and 3 Headed Monsters put on an incredible display for our fans, congratulations to both teams on special seasons. Now let's see if Trilogy can be our first repeat champ in 2022," said BIG3 co-founder Ice Cube.

"Not only was this the best BIG3 season and title game, but it was also the most challenging season to get through," said BIG3 co-founder Jeff Kwatinetz. "We were able to succeed through the pandemic and create a competitive environment, gaining millions of new fans across the globe. It has been an honor to be able to help create an exciting new sport where we get to work with legends on and off the court."

"This was my first season as part of the BIG3 family and it's easy to see why it's such a special league when you see first-hand the dedication, creativity, and tireless work ethic from everyone behind the scenes. Thanks so much to our staff, players, and coaches for putting together a season we will all remember. We couldn't have done it without our amazing collection of partners, CBS Sports, Microsoft, Verizon, Monster Energy, Taco Bell, SuperDraft, Toyota, Binger Labs, Dherbs, and ZipRecruiter thank you for your support and collaboration all year," said BIG3 CEO Chris Hannan.

In the first game of the action-packed Saturday, Tri-State took home the third-place title during the consolation game, led by an explosive performance by former University of Washington star Justin Dentmon, finishing with a game-high 24 points and five assists.

ABOUT BIG3BIG3 (BIG3.com) is who we are, FIREBALL3 is what we play. It's not your grandfather's 3-on-3. The premier global BIG3 league features many of the greatest, most popular, and skilled professional athletes of all time. Founded by producer, actor, and music legend Ice Cube and entertainment executiveJeff Kwatinetz, BIG3 combines highly competitive, physical, fast game experiences and incredible fan experiences.

MEDIA CONTACTSJeremy Watkins(Hiltzik Strategies for BIG3)[emailprotected]

SOURCE BIG3

https://big3.com

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Coach Stephen Jackson's Trilogy Takes Home Championship Title After The "Brawl in the Bahamas," Winning 50-45 - PRNewswire

The second MSC cruise ship has been approved by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to restart operations. After completing its test cruise, MSC Divina now has the green light to be the first in the fleet to sail from Port Canaveral in Florida.

After completing its simulated sailing to stress tests protocols, MSC Divina has been approved to restart cruise operations from the U.S. The test voyage was completed last week, which means the cruise line can focus on the ships revenue restart.

MSC Divina will become the second ship in the fleet to resume from the U.S. this month and the 11th in the fleet. Cruises will begin from Port Canaveral, Flordia, on September 16, the first time the cruise line will operate from the port.

Also Read: Things to Do on the MSC Divina Cruise Ship

After officially resuming cruises from the U.S. with MSC Meraviglia in early August, we are thrilled to cross another significant milestone toward bringing our entire fleet back to sea around the world for safe, relaxing and enjoyable cruises, said Rubn Rodrguez, President of MSC Cruises USA. In the U.S. in particular, MSC Divinas restart will bring us into an entirely new, easily accessible embarkation destination, providing our guests with more choice when cruising with us to popular destinations in The Bahamas and Caribbean, including our stunning new private island destination, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

The vessel will offer three-, four- and seven-night itineraries that will include Port Canaveral as an embarkation port and the cruise capital of the world, PortMiami. The cruises will sail the Caribbean and the Bahamas, including the cruise lines private island of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

MSC Meraviglia has already resumed sailings out of Florida, with the first return cruise setting sail in August 2021. The ship is now offering three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas but will begin sailing week-long cruises from September 18, 2021.

The cruise line is sailings under its Health and Safety protocols and following guidelines from authorities in Florida and beyond. From September 3, all guests 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated, which will remain in effect until November 1, 2021. The protocols remain fluid as cruise lines adapt to the spreading variants along with requirements from the CDC and ports.

In November, MSC Seashore, currently the newest ship in the fleet, will also begin cruises out of Miami, Florida, following an inaugural season in the Mediterranean. The ship will sail Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.

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MSC Cruise Ship Approved by CDC to Restart Operations From Florida - Cruise Hive