In an interesting turn of events and probably for the first time ever, Hawaii said it will pay for its tourists to leave. No, we are not kidding. Read on to find out what it is all about. By Amitha Ameen
View this post on Instagram
The tourism authority of Hawaii has decided to pay its tourists to leave the island. The state agency in Hawaii that welcomes tourists has come up with a $25,000 (INR 1904437.50) fund to cover the costs of sending them back home.
View this post on Instagram
“The ability to return people quickly to their airports of origin during the coronavirus crisis greatly assists law enforcement’s ability to ensure the success of our statewide emergency measures. The fact scarce government funds do not need to be expended for these return trips also helps fulfil the mission of keeping Hawaii safe,” said Hawaii’s state attorney general Clare Connors.
View this post on Instagram
The azure blue and sun-kissed beaches and shores full of the people is a far cry from the reality of the island these days. Hawaii has currently reported 607 active corona cases, and that has contributed to a steep drop in visitors to the island state.
So far, Visitor Aloha Society, the non-profit organisation that is taking care of travel arrangements of visitors has sent 19 tourists back to their airports of origin.
View this post on Instagram
Apart from the two-week self-quarantine that was imposed by the Governor of Hawaii, David Age on April 1, a letter was also sent to many different media publications on April 6 asking them not to promote Hawaii tourism in lieu of the coronavirus outbreak.
Related: #SomeGoodNews: Italy Outlines Plans To Ease Coronavirus Lockdown From May 4
