Venues Will Be Able to Host Up to 100 People Indoors or Up to 200 People Outdoors; With Testing or Immunization, Up to 150 People Indoors or Up to 500 People Outdoors
Social Distancing, Face Coverings and Strict Health Protocols Required
Excelsior Pass Now Available for New Yorkers to Show Proof of Vaccination or Recent Negative COVID-19 Test to Attend Venues; Interested New Yorkers Can Use Excelsior Pass and Learn More Here; Interested Businesses Can Learn More Here
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that performing arts and entertainment venues can reopen at 33 percent capacity beginning today. Venues can host up to 100 people indoors or up to 200 people outdoors. If all attendees present proof of completed vaccination or recent negative test result prior to entry, capacity can increase up to 150 people indoors or up to 500 people outdoors. Social distancing, face coverings, health screening and other health protocols will be required by all attendees, as well as strict adherence to all applicable Department of Health guidance, which is available here.
“New York’s beloved arts and entertainment venues have been hard hit by the public health guidance we’ve implemented to slow the spread of COVID-19, and after a long and difficult period, I am glad to see them reopen their doors to New Yorkers,” Governor Cuomo said. “Attendees will need to follow strict guidance to keep themselves and others safe, but they’ll now be able to watch world-class performances and take part in our state’s thriving arts and culture scene once again. I encourage New Yorkers to get tested before attending events and to use Excelsior Pass to show venues that they’ve been vaccinated or tested before entering performance spaces.”
On March 26, Governor Cuomo announced the launch of Excelsior Pass – a free, voluntary platform developed in partnership with IBM, which utilizes proven, secure technology to confirm an individual’s recent negative PCR or antigen test result or proof of vaccination to help fast-track the reopening of businesses and event venues in accordance with New York State Department of Health guidelines. Similar to a mobile airline boarding pass, individuals will be able to either print out their pass or store it on their smartphones using the Excelsior Pass Wallet app. Each Pass will have a secure QR code, which participating businesses and venues can scan using a companion app to verify proof of COVID-19 negative test results or proof of vaccination. An individual’s data is kept secure and confidential at all times.
Interested New Yorkers can opt in to use Excelsior Pass and learn more here; interested businesses can opt in and learn more here.
On February 20, the Governor announced the launch of NY PopsUp, an unprecedented and expansive festival featuring hundreds of pop-up performances that will revitalize the spirits of New Yorkers with the energy of live performances and will jumpstart the state’s live entertainment industry. During the run of the festival, NY PopsUp will grow in its scale, volume of performances, and geographical footprint. Follow @NYPopsUp on Twitter and Instagram for the latest. More information is available here.
Wedding receptions and catered events can resume statewide in New York. All venues hosting weddings and catered events must follow the State’s strict health and safety protocols, including the following requirements:
Venues are restricted to 50% capacity, with no more than 150 attendees per event
All attendees must have proof of recent negative test result or proof of immunization prior to the event
Sign-in with contact information required to assist with potential contact tracing
Venues must notify local health departments of large events, above the social gathering limit, in advance
Masks will be required at all times except when seated and eating or drinking
Ceremonial and socially-distanced dancing allowed in designated areas
Detailed guidance for in-person and catered events is available here.
“New Yorkers have remained resilient throughout this entire pandemic, and the numbers show how effective our behavior has been in stopping the spread of this virus,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said.”As the state’s positivity and hospitalization numbers continue to decline and we ramp up vaccinations, the light at the end of the tunnel is getting closer and we can focus on safely reopening different sectors of our economy without compromising the progress we’ve made. Weddings and catered events will now be allowed to resume across the state, with strict protocols in place to protect the health and safety of New Yorkers. This is great news – but we must continue with the practices that we know work to defeat this virus once and for all.”
The reopening of wedding receptions and other catered events builds on the Governor’s recent measures to further re-open the economy amid a steady decline in New York’s COVID-19 positivity and hospitalization rates.
Effective March 19th, New York City indoor dining expanded to 50 percent capacity and the rest of New York State increased to 75 percent capacity for indoor dining.
The MTA has partially restored overnight service on the New York City Subway.
On February 14th, the Governor issued an Executive Order extending closing times to 11 p.m. statewide for restaurants, bars, gyms and fitness centers, casinos, billiards halls and any other location with an SLA license.
The Governor also announced beginning April 2, event, arts and entertainment venues can reopen at 33 percent capacity, up to 100 people indoors and up to 200 people outdoors.” And Citifield which is the home base for the Mets and Yankee Stadium will be able to welcome fans at 20 percent capacity.
New York’s Major League Baseball teams, the New York Mets and New York Yankees, can resume play with spectators in the stadiums, beginning April 1. Professional sports in large outdoor stadiums that hold 10,000 people or more will be allowed to reopen at 20 percent capacity. Attendees must show proof of a recent negative test or completed vaccination series prior to entry and are subject to strict state guidance on face coverings, social distancing, and health screening. The New York State Department of Health will re-evaluate the testing and vaccination entry requirements in May, and if the public health situation continues to improve, they may be discontinued in mid-May. Vaccinations will continue to be administered at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field during the MLB season.
Building on the recent reopening of large professional sports arenas, the Governor also announced that smaller, regional sports venues that hold 1,500 people indoors or 2,500 people outdoors can also reopen, beginning April 1. Initial capacity will be limited to 10 percent indoors and 20 percent outdoors. Attendees must show proof of a recent negative test or completed vaccination series prior to entry and are subject to strict state guidance on face coverings, social distancing, and health screening.
Governor Cuomo also announced that large outdoor performing arts venues, including stadiums, that hold more than 2,500 people can reopen at 20 percent capacity, beginning April 1. Venue capacity will continue to increase as the public health situation improves with more New Yorkers receiving vaccinations and fewer COVID-19 cases in the community. Attendees must show proof of a recent negative test or completed vaccination series prior to entry and are subject to strict state guidance on face coverings, social distancing, and health screening.
To re-open professional sports with spectators at large outdoor stadiums, each venue must adhere to strict health and safety protocols, including:
Obtain NYS DOH approval for ALL venues and events
Institute a 20 percent capacity limit
Ensure spectators and public-facing event staff present proof of a recentnegative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination prior to the event
Mandate face coverings, social distancing, and temperature checks for all those in attendance
Mandate assigned, socially distanced seating
Collect contact information from all those in attendance to help inform contact tracing efforts
Meet enhanced air filtration, ventilation, and purification standards for any indoor areas
Ensure retail, food services and athletic activities abide by all State-issued guidance
Domestic and international resorts are gearing up to provide secluded and unique getaways for families bursting to get out and be together in new and exciting locales. From educational programming, plenty of outdoor fun (ice-fishing in Wisconsin, learning about the Florida keys, SUP boarding in Turks & Caicos), suites or cabins with full kitchens, these resorts are sure to make all members of the family happy while helping to create new memories in a much-needed change of scenery.
Many of the resort destinations are also providing flexibility in cancellations due to the current travel climate. Additionally, these international resorts have begun implementing onsite testing for COVID-19 to meet reentry requirements to the U.S.
Hawks Cay Resort, a one of a kind destination resort in the Florida Keys, offers families looking for a safe spring break getaway this year, the ideal location to spread out and find entertaining programming for everyone in the family. From the full-service marina, guests have access to snorkeling and fishing charters, as well as kayaking and standup paddleboarding. The onsite Dolphin Connection offers families both in-water and dockside experiences, and for those who want to participate in activities together, the resort has a wide variety of new COVID friendly activities including an environmental education class and astronomy lesson. The resort offers guests a variety of room categories including 177 hotel rooms and 250 two- and three-bedroom townhome-style villas that come equipped with washer and dryer and a full kitchen for guests who prefer dine in, and multiple dining outlets that are offering both outdoor and grab and go options. For more information, visit www.hawkscay.com.
Sand Valley resort, a short road trip from many Midwest states, is the ideal back-to-nature getaway for families who are looking for a secluded and safe spring break destination. With a variety of outdoor activities, cozy lodging options that are thoughtfully spaced out for added safety, stunning views, and a culinary experience to match, Sand Valley is the perfect Midwest spring break escape. Outdoor adventures available include hiking, fat-tire biking, bird watching, fishing, yoga, star gazing and snow activities when the weather permits (i.e., snowshoeing, ice skating). Since most Sand Valley cottages are furnished with a full kitchen for cooking and dining, pre-packaged meal kits with local Wisconsin ingredients and recipes curated by Sand Valley chefs await guests upon request. Guests can also arrange for a chef-curated meal in the comfort of their cottage or villa, private dining and in-home meals. From lodging options to greatly enhanced housekeeping procedures to frictionless delivery options, Sand Valley takes the health and wellbeing of visitors incredibly seriously. Find information on the resort’s COVID protocol linked here.
Grand Residences is a secluded coastal resort located about half an hour outside of Cancun and home to its own private beach area. The resort offers an array of onsite activities (i.e., Zumba class, Spanish lessons) and immersive experiences for guests of all ages. Through their Kids Club programming, younger guests, ages 12 and under, are able to learn about local culture and traditions through interactive games and art projects. Some of the activities include learning how to create and play an authentic Mexican lottery game called La Lotería, creating Piñatas, masks and bracelets, treasure. All-inclusive and stay alone travel packages are available and children 12 and under stay free. Grand Residences is also providing complimentary antigen testing for guests.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico is located by the azure blue Caribbean Sea and verdant Riviera Maya jungle. The premier all-inclusive resort has 900 spacious guest suites, 12 distinct dining destinations, multiple swimming pools, a world-class spa and wellness center. The resort offers guests all the perks of its exclusive All-Fun Inclusive concept, where travelers have unlimited access to Xcaret parks: Xel-Ha, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xavage, Xoximilco, Xenses, and the Xenotes and Xichen tours. In addition to food and beverages, the resort offers transportation between parks and airport shuttle.
Rates for the All-Fun Inclusive package range from $285 – $358/night through April 30. Guests can cancel without any penalty up to seven days prior to their arrival.
COVID-19 Testing: Hotel Xcaret Mexico has implemented the 360 Xafety model assisting guests with COVID-19 detection tests at the company’s resort and parks. Guests staying at the hotel have access to a complimentary COVID-19 antigen test, with results delivered the same day, or a PCR test for $140, with results delivered within 24 to 48 hours.
The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort is a destination resort on the Pacific coast of Panama and a short flight from major cities in the U.S. It is the perfect family getaway offering travelers a quick, yet exotic getaway with miles of uncrowded beaches, unique rainforest experiences, and plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy while properly social distancing. The 118-room luxury resort seven swimming pools, a complimentary Kid’s Club, Nicklaus designed 18-hole championship golf course, biking, tennis, a zoo, sports club, and many other nearby experiences.
Families can take advantage of the resort’s Family Experiences package with rates starting at $249 that includes daily breakfast, complimentary stand-up paddle boards and kayak, daily activities in the Kids Club, a visit to the on-site Zoo, complimentary Wi-Fi and the use of tennis and volleyball courts. Guests can book from now until Dec. 8, 2021 using promotional code: MAJ. The resort offers guests the flexibility to change their reservations without any penalty or restrictions with added benefits to reschedule for a future stay.
COVID-19 Testing: Guests have access to an on-site private clinic, Vidatec, which offer COVID-19 PRC tests for $95, quantitative antibody tests for $35, and antigen tests for $45. Results are delivered by email within 24 to 48 hours.
Located directly along the world-renowned Grace Bay Beach, sits Ocean Club Resorts, two all-suite properties that provide the ideal open-air setting and direct beach access for guests to enjoy without going overbudget. Suites at both locations feature a kitchen, washer/dryer and enclosed private porch area, providing each visitor with the comforts of home. Watersports, bike rentals, tennis courts, beachside activities and an interactive learning game for younger guests known as Seafari can all be found at the resorts and are included in each stay. Ocean Club Resorts has also begun implementing complimentary breakfast. The resorts have offered guests in the new state of travel a flexible cancellation policy, discounted travel offers and a concierge service that assists with the coordination of regulations in travel to the island. With the news of the latest travel restrictions, Ocean Club Resorts has begun extending their concierge services to now include helping U.S. travelers with ensuring they receive testing on-island. See here for additional details.
Home to seven villas total and located three miles off the coast of Belize, Cayo Espanto is a private island resort perfect for a luxe family getaway. Each villa comes equipped with a personal butler, private dock area and customized meals set by the on-island world-renowned chef – allowing everyone’s tastebuds to be satisfied. The resort’s ability to tailor activities based on guest preferences enables families to ensure all members of their traveling party has the time of their life. Fishing lessons on a private dock a tropical spa treatment set to the sounds of the Belizean waters watch a movie under the stars. Strong WiFi and private docks attached to spacious villas, also allot for extended virtual work/school stays to provide a much-needed paradisal change of scenery. To adhere to new CDC travel guidelines, the resort has arranged for the island physician to begin administering COVID testing from the convenience of each guest’s villa.
Comprised of two different boutique island resorts, Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kohlhu, each create a unique Maldivian experience ranging from luxe amenities to eco-forward initiatives for families to indulge in during their stay. The secluded resorts offer the ideal dreamy escape and provide opportunities for families to learn about the local marine life through guided marine biologist adventures, taking a peek at the progress of Coco Bodu Hithi’s coral nurseries initiative or simply enjoying the vast underwater life through snorkeling. Guests of all ages also have the option to become immersed in Maldivian culture through spending an afternoon with locals on a neighboring island. From simply relaxing in your villa or along the private island’s shores, delighting in incredible cuisine, enjoying water activities both below and above (i.e., SUP boarding), Coco Collection is a dream-come-true private island escape. In response to the new CDC regulation, Coco Collection has begun offering guests PCR testing at the resorts.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa in South Walton, Florida, is debuting a new Home at Hilton work-from-hotel program catering to remote workers interested in moving their home office beachside for an extended “workcation”.
SOUTH WALTON, Florida –With millions of Americans still working from home, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is debuting their new Home at Hilton work-from-hotel program catering to remote workers interested in moving their home office beachside for an extended Florida workcation this winter.
Home at Hilton offers business professionals seeking a warm-weather relocation two discounted package options, a 14-night Change of Scenery and a 30-night One Month Life Swap, both providing amenities and benefits to create a home-away-from-home setting at Hilton Sandestin. Available for bookings now through February 28, 2021, each of the Home at Hilton packages include spacious beachfront accommodations with a workspace, off-property shuttle service, access to the business kiosk, as well as free reign of the resort’s white sand beach to use for a morning run, mid-day meditation break, or as the backdrop for Zoom calls. Additional benefits for those who choose the extended month-long stay include daily breakfast, a complimentary cocktail every afternoon, beach rentals and laundry service.
“We’re making it easy for anyone who is remote working or learning to switch up their virtual living situation and move to our beautiful beachfront resort for an extended working vacation,” said Gary Brielmayer, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa General Manager. “It’s a chance to escape the cold and enjoy some warm weather, fresh air, and our charming beach town experience. We look forward to welcoming guests for a break from everyday life in the new normal.”
Hilton Sandestin sits along the white sand beach of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast and provides guests with easy access and shuttle service to nearby attractions, including golf, cultural centers, state parks, shopping outlets, and the vibrant Village at Baytowne Wharf, which is known for its array of boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. The resort also offers a variety of on-property activities such as bike rentals, watersports, tennis courts, a world-class spa, as well as dining options, including the area’s only AAA Four Diamond steakhouse, Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood.
Guests who choose the 14-day stay will receive a 30 percent discount on the best available nightly rate. Pricing begins at $90 per night for those who choose to swap homes for the longer 30-day time period. For more information on the Home at Hilton program visit www.hiltonsandestinbeach.com/home-at-hilton or call 850.267.9500 to make a reservation.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, managed by Sandcastle Resorts & Hotels, is located on the sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast near Destin in South Walton, Fla. Northwest Florida’s largest full-service beachfront resort hotel boasts 602 spacious accommodations, more than 40,000 square feet of award-winning meeting space, a world-class spa and state-of-the-art fitness center, six on-site seasonal dining venues – including the Emerald Coast’s only AAA Four-Diamond steakhouse – abundant resort recreation options, access to championship golf courses, and close proximity to the area’s best attractions. A place where moments become memories that last a lifetime, there is only one Hilton Sandestin Beach. For more information on the premier hotel, visit HiltonSandestinBeach.com, or stay up to date with its latest news and promotions on its Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
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