With this much dissension 10 days before Hawaii reopening, what will happen?
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103 thoughts on “Hawaii Reopening Free Fall | You Can Now Call With Questions”
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With this much dissension 10 days before Hawaii reopening, what will happen?
Get Breaking Hawaii Travel News
Comments are closed.
Traveling to Honolulu in November. I hope Hawaii will be open.
My family has planned to travel to Hawaii in early November but if additional testing is required or quarantine, not coming. And if the article is correct that only 2vendors can conduct testing how do people who have no access to those 2 vendors submit acceptable testing?
Feel free to contact us about our return to KOA via SEA to HN on 9/29…what a mess. We were amazed to see the lack of procedure vetting/beta testing of this new process. Who was in charge of this? Sadly, after flying all day, 5 hour layover in HNL w/ only Burger King/Starbucks open, 45 minutes in line at KOA (no social distancing), multiple bags to pick up, with announcements saying “baggage claim is closing in 3 minutes” and the poor guy who couldn’t find our Q code…(we owe him an apology for loosing it/not his fault)…typical government incompetence. We have some suggestions that might help, but need immediate review. Regards, Layne and Jeff
Who is running the state? Idiots? I cannot believe their incompetence.
Democrats
Let’s start flipping This state RED…
We got to Maui every year. This is the third rebook and then the airline cancelled our flight and rebooked two days later. Still on schedule for the 18th, and we want to spend our money on Maui but not sitting in quarantine- that helps no one. I booked a test with my doc, and registered with Hawai’i but haven’t heard about going to cvs specifically. If they create too many hoops and keep changing them no one will come.
I went to the CVS MinuteClinic site today (Oct 5) and tried to book at test for my return at Xmas time. No luck, the CVS site only lets you book up to two days in advance from TODAY. And hope that the clinic won’t be all booked up (eg, Christmas vacation rush.)That means you really can’t make firm plans in advance to get your test on time. Seems very poorly thought out. The more expensive site MyDoctor.com lets you make reservations 3 months in advance.
We live in the Seattle area. The closet CVS Minute Clinic is in California. Any idea what the plan is for those who are unable to access CVS. We have January reservations for Maui.
No need to call that number. It’s only a TECH support number for the SafeTravels App site. They don’t have any information. All they were able to do was send a couple links to the same info you can get on the state covid site.
I really feel sorry for anyone who has relied upon the endless misrepresentations from the state of Hawaii governor and lieutenant governor to plan a trip to Hawaii. It seems like there is a serious lack of communication between the lieutenant governor, the governor and the mayors. It doesn’t seem like the governor is really in charge. What kind of governor takes orders from the mayors? The left hand has no idea what the right hand is doing. And there seem to be no consequences for the damage caused to travelers whose lives have been at the very least inconvenienced time and time again and in the case of businesses disrupted or destroyed as a result of the gross negligence or intentional harm caused by these fools. I really can’t blame CVS for not updating their website as they probably already anticipate that Hawaii will once again postpone the reopening. There are countless businesses that have reopened at a loss in anticipation of tourists returning on October 15th. But it seems they will once again be forced to either shut back down or lose even more money due to the fact they won’t have the tourists that they were expecting. Even if the reopening goes forward they have probably already scared away half the tourists simply because no one really has any confidence that they won’t change their mind a few days later.
This is in response to a comment that only NAAT tests will be permitted and PCR test will not. In terms of type of tests, it is my understanding that the PCR test is a type of NAAT test.
And by the way, I called the number earlier today, left a message and have yet to hear back.
Thanks for creating a blog!
Hi Mike.
Thanks for your comments.
Aloha.
I’ve tried to call the Safe Travels Desk, and was asked to leave my number for a callback. That was five days ago….i’m still waiting.
The State of Hawaii is not ready for prime time: amateurish.
I thought the Gov. & Lt. Gov vetoed the 2nd Covid test. Also, what about all the workers in the resorts? Do they have to take Covid tests also.
When I look at flights I don’t see as good prices as I would have expected. Add to that the testing fees I wonder if the number of travelers will be pretty low. I also wonder if more people are buying tickets in case travel opens up with reasonable restrictions, but feel that they can cancel at any time and get a full refund. I really miss my Maui vacations and really hope to be able to go back soon. I would be OK with wearing a mask at least when around other people.
Aloha
It’s s my understanding the test required on the mainland is NAAT , a test more accurate than the PCR that is common now. Nowhere on the CVS website does it define the test it deploys.
And I think we expect family down to age 12 to be tested. CVS clearly states only 18 and over for testing.
And last, TVR Rentals are not allowed fir quarantine stays, lack of enforcement. How will this work out for test positives. Can’t deport them.
Not all Hotels will take quarantine travelers unless they are essential workers. So we can’t just assume it will work out.
I see holes in this Net.
Thank you
Hi Marshall.
Good points. We’re all looking forward to more answers.
Aloha.
My question is regarding Kaiser testing. Can you please clarify if the govt us saying ALL Kaiser regions will be offering travelers covid tests, or just Hawaii region? We live in Northern CA & Kaiser here still has a msg saying they will only do Covid tests for members who think they have covid or if they are having a surgical procedure done. We have a New Year’s trip planned. Thank you!
Hi Suzanna.
We have not heard anything about Kaiser’s travel testing program, but from what the Lt. Governor said, there should be more information about each of their testing partners and how to access tests. Hopefully, we’ll know more about that soon.
Aloha.
Oakland CA airport announced free Covid Testing last week. Mention for Hawaii travelers!!
It doesn’t sound like Hawaii is ready. Hate to cancel the 3rd trip to Hawaii, but my local shores will my dollars this year.
Too much uncertainty for our family to book a trip back to hawaii and I believe the majority of tourists will feel the same. Hawaii is a very expensive vacation for us due to the airfare from the east coast however we believe it is worth it. (We come once a year for two weeks) In order for me to travel to hawaii I would want the test results prior to us getting on the plane. Another test or quarantine required upon arrival would be a non starter for us. I am not taking sides on the issue but I believe the mayors, reps and governor need to decide do they want to open or not. Opening definitely assumes risk ( how bad nobody knows) staying closed will definitely causes serious economic damage to Hawaii and it’s residents. Requiring multiple tests and a quarantine would be the equivalent of staying closed and will not provide the economic stimulus the state needs. The waffling of the politicians also doesn’t give us confidence to book travel in the future.
What I have read in the Hawaii Safe Travels information is that they will accept a COVID test from any testing facility that is licensed by Clinical Laboratories Improvement Amendments(CLIA) of specimens for nuclei acid amplification(NAAT) testing approved or authorized by the United States Food and Drug Administration(USFDA). There are many facilities across the country that meet those standards. I don’t have the impression there will be specific partner companies that will be the only partners. What is your take. The above language comes from Hawaii Safe Travels information. Thanks.
Hi Mike.
The lieutenant governor specifically mentioned tests must be from approved partners when he addressed this last week. Whether that did change, will change, or won’t change, remains to be seen. Sorry to not have more information on that yet.
Aloha.
I got a message from the lt governs office that stated as long as it is a certified lab and a certified test as stated above cvs does not have to do the test. Our doctors office is doing our test when we come in November and it was okd. Also cvs does not guarantee your results to be back in 72 hours. That is why we didn’t get tested there. Lisa h
My Dr office says a NAAT test within 72 hours of travel is impossible. We have postponed our trip 3 times already and are now scheduled for nov 11. On the fence as to if we should cancel again. I know this is a difficult decision but making us get a test that is virtually impossible for results before travel is essentially saying you don’t want us to come.
Praying for guidance and clarification please.
Aloha
Hi Lisa.
The state has indicated they’ll provide the information on tests and testing partners later this week. Hope that will help.
Aloha.
Stand your ground Governor! As an eager visitor, I am happy to wear a mask and spend money on my vacation. Otherwise I’ll go somewhere else.
Again I say that the tests do not detect “live” virus. A positive test does not indicate live infection, it only indicates the presence of viral rna, live or dead. What happens to those that have recovered that still test positive? This is a class action lawsuit in the making…
That is exactly the position my husband and I are in. We have flights on Oct. 15th to go see our kids/grandkids who live on O’ahu. We have both tested positive for Covid, but no longer have any symptoms and are back to work following state health department guidelines. There are no CVS locations for testing in our state and we are not Kaiser members, but I did read on the Hawaii govt website that they will accept an FDA approved NAAT test done by a certified CLIA lab. So we have appointments for Monday, the 12th, to have the test done. Hopefully, we will know by Tuesday if we tested negative or positive (from the presence of dead virus) so we will either be able to go or not. I understand they are trying to do SOMETHING to slow the spread of this virus, but we are probably more safe to travel than the person who has not had it. Kinda frustrating…
Mahalo for keeping us informed with these updates. Little has been said about vacation rentals. Am I to assume they will be allowed to rent?
Hi Claudia.
So long as the visitor is not under quarantine, then yes. Thanks.
Aloha.
anyone under quarantine cannot stay in a short term rental. so, if the 3-day quarantine and 2nd test is mandatory, anyone booked in a house or condo will have to forfeit the first 3 days. this has never been communicated which is sad and scary.
If the mask policy is enforced for all visiting the islands and the tests are negative, that should be enough to ensure safety. Of course, everyone has to obey the policy and those that do not should be given an expensive penalty ticket . The Holiday season could help the economic condition of Hawai’i greatly and get people back to work. Just everyone wear a Mask please!!!
Thank you for the updates. I understand both sides of the situation. We have plans to fly 10/16 to Kauai via Oahu for a full week staying in a condo in Kapaa, then 9-10 days on Oahu staying with a friend. It make me nervous, so much uncertainty. We are 69 and 73 and have been extremely careful and will continue to do so. For your info, I just inquired with our local CVS in Corona, CA and was told tests are free, but we need to make an appointment online. They said test results are coming back in 2 – 3 days but there is no guarantee. If we have to quarantine for a day upon our arrival, we are ok with that. But no way we want to quarantine for 3 days for a second test. We’ll just cancel. If our tests come back positive, hopefully, we won’t be on a plane yet.
Hi Yolanda.
The state is saying that if you don’t have your results back in time, you will only need to quarantine until the results are uploaded to the Safe Travel App. Thanks.
Aloha.
I completed a questionnaire on the CVS website and was able to obtain a Covid test appointment on 9/23. The CV site says results normally obtained in 2-3 days. The Minute Clinic link that is provided and which is emailed to you says results normally obtained in 2-5 days. All depends on the current demand. My results were not available until the end of day 10. CVS provided the test but sends them to a vendor to run the test and send out the results (I guess Minute Clinic?). Hopefully turn around time improves quickly.
Thank you for continually giving us current information on this 72 hour Covid Testing rule. I checked with CVS and they said they had no Rapid Testing in California. Hawaiian airlines said they were going to offer it at the airport and mail in for their customers at a cost, however I have yet to get a conclusive answer on when airport appoints will be offered and how realistic is it that I would get the mail in results back and ready to present before a 4 pm (7pm PST)Saturday arrival. The timing seems to be crucial. Almost ready to cancel my 2 week trip – don’t mind jumping through the hoops, but too many uncertainties.
Hi Anita.
We should know more in the next couple of days. The lt. governor said we’d have an update by tomorrow whereas the governor said it will be by mid-week. We’ll update you as soon as we know more. Thanks.
Aloha.
You keep saying that “We should know more in a couple of days”. BUT Hawaii keeps changing everything all the time. Also, 3 to 5 days is unreasonable unless you are famous sport person or rich or those with Covid symptoms.
Mahalo…looking forward to getting more detailed answers.
This is all so ridiculous. Costs a fortune to visit and now we’re expected to pay for one, and possibly multiple, covid tests. No thanks. We’ve already booked a vacation elsewhere, with no tests required. Enjoy your unemployment. You’ve run off the majority of the tourists who used to visit. Too much expense. Too many hoops to jump through.
Hello. No one had addressed the policies at the resorts concerning masks, pool time, beach time, restaurants, lounge chairs, bbqs etc. all the amenities that make a vacation worth coming to Hawaii for
Thanks
Hi Randy.
That’s true. First we’d suggest waiting for an announcement in the next couple of days. Then following up with specific places you have in mind.
Aloha.
Aloha all,
My husband and I are scheduled to arrive on Maui Sat. Oct. 17th with negative covid test results in hand. We most likely will cancel our trip if we are required to quarantine for 3 days (or any amount of time) and take a 2nd covid test.
We have many dear friends on Maui. We have been staying in Kihei, twice a year for about 8 years now. It deeply saddens us to know how hard our friends are struggling due to the pandemic becoming so political.
To the Hawaiian Government… Please help your people, allow then to get back to work!
Yes, mask wearing is essential for everyone and we all know that masks certainly will be worn while working and that should eliminate any concerns. My plea to all the Hawaiian powers that be…. Please release your islands, they have been held hostage long enough. Your people deserve the right to make a fair living and tourism is a large portion of jobs as everyone knows. We miss your beautiful island and our friends. We are very much looking forward to visiting Maui in the very near future.
Mahalo
Kim R
Well said.
Thank you for your update. Even though it is not what I wanted to hear it shows where the train is heading to. Just in case, I have one question.
Do we know if the Test at SFO, administered by Dignity Health-GoHealth, will be acceptable to avoid quarantine? United still says yes. I am not sure. Actually I am not sure about anything anymore.
Hi Gerhard.
Green mentioned that the airlines’ test partners will be approved. That’s all that we have heard.
Aloha.
I look forward to going back to Hawaii before too much longer, but it does not appear ready for tourists. Perhaps by March 2021 everything will be settled. That’s what we are aiming for. Right now politicians need to begin speaking with one voice and figure out some accountability for each other.
Thank you for the update.
Hi Clay.
Thanks for that.
Aloha.
I find it interesting that Dr Green states “If they test positive on the fourth day, what happens? They have to stay here and quarantine for two weeks, with all of their family who are close contacts in a hotel at their own expense. Do you think that they’re going to agree to that?”? Hmmm…so if that is his warped logic (as if they have a right to simply wander all over since they paid to get there) then why make all the fuss and even bother to do any testing at all? If you’re not concerned that tourists will bring more Covid to Hawaii (absolutely going to happen) then why the heck haven’t you put out the open sign and said “Bring it on?”. CVS is a joke, as the only locations they have that will do Covid tests are widely disseminated and nearly all in California. If you only want west coast folks to visit, then your set!
My trip is first week of February for 7 nites coming from jersey…72 hour quarantine is almost half the trip…yes this is a deal breaker…I’m more than happy to get the vaccine and test negative to board the flight..
What Green says makes a lot of sense. I hope he prevails and the fearmongering stops. Masks and social distancing is the only viable solution.
🤙
If masks are the only viable solution, why are thousands of health care professionals contracting the virus? Nobody wears masks more religiously than they do.
My family was supposed to come to Hawaii last summer. I get it, a pandemic ruined that possibility. We want to come back in summer of 2021 as we saved our vacation money. However, we will not come if we are subjected to quarrantine or frequent tests. My wife and I are both teachers and face this disease every day. Our kids go to school and participate in sports and face this disease every day. We won’t pay for testing either. It is so sad that Hawaii is thinking they can dictate all these rules. Sure hope you can survive the lack of tourism dollars.
Hi Beat of Hawaii, thank you for today’s update. Are you able to clarify about your statement above that the state will accept tests from ONLY its trusted partners ? I took a quick look on the state’s covid 19 FAQ page and it still says that it accepts NAAT tests from CLIA labs and it also says that it accepts tests from the trusted partners. I’ve already got my test scheduled for the 13th with my city’s provider and not CVS or Kaiser. If this is indeed another change in plans and the website hasn’t been updated yet then I may just lose my patience.
Hi AW.
Josh green said multiple times last week that tests need to be from approved partners. That could change or may have already changed, but he is the person in charge and that was his last word. Truly confusing. Thanks for all your comments.
Aloha
That means there is probably some kind of money cut that the governor or someone in Hawaii is getting to only allow from certain places like CVS for testing. I work for Sutter Health at a trauma center and this is absolutely a joke these restrictions and where a test can be done it. Sounds like someone getting money in there pocket for this crap
Exactly. Someone is lining their palm. Any test from a doctor or reputable clinic should work. We don’t even have a CVS here. I’d have to drive a 4 hour round trip to get to one.
Thanks Beat of Hawaii! I wonder if Greene means approached partners are those that meet the requirements? It seems COVID is short-circuiting a few of our plans and desires. I am going to give the Hawaii officials the benefit of the doubt. This sort of ground has never been plowed before. Trying to anticipate what will happen given what we still do not know about COVID is difficult at best. I sure do want to visit Kauai but perhaps it will be later than sooner.
Hi again Mike.
It is simply not clear. The state’s website still only says, “The state of Hawaii will accept test results from trusted testing partners: CVS Health and Kaiser Permanente (as of 9/30/20).”
Aloha.
The state website also says “Currently approved is the processing by laboratories that are licensed or certified by Clinical Laboratories Improvement Amendments (CLIA) of specimens for nucleic acid amplification testing approved or authorized by the United States Food and Drug Administration, pursuant to an Emergency Use Authorization or other authorization for COVID-19 testing.”
And so this is causing me confusion. And the labs in my state are CLIA exempt since inspections are done by Washington state instead. So I’ll get off the plan at 9pm and have no idea if I will need to quarantine or not. I must be crazy.
Hi AW.
What can we say, Lt. Gov Green is in charge and he clearly said trusted partners and the website also says trusted partners, and then it also says this. Sorry, there is so much confusion is all we can say at this point.
Aloha.
Aloha
Please confirm your test will be the NAAT test from a CLIA approved lab.
When I came in August I could not find that combo
In the country. Only PCR From a CLIA lab.
I did that test for my own sake, but it wouldn’t
Have been acceptable.
Mahalo
I did the 14 days. I couldn’t wait till October.
Josh Greene makes a lot of sense to me. Everyone is pushing their own agenda. Like he said, if thru don’t want tourists just say so and be done with it so we can plan our trips elsewhere. We planned 3 islands over 3 weeks beginning just after Thanksgiving. It sounds like they want us to test negative before we come and then spend 3 days of each of our weeks locked up in quarantine until they test us again. Hard no. I dont want to move our trip to Florida or Cabo but we really need THE answer so we can figure out what to do. Thank you for staying on top of it.
Hi Teresa.
Thanks. More information coming soon, one way or the other.
Aloha.
Just tried to register for a COVID test on the CVS web site. If you do not have underlying factors, aren’t an essential worker, work in high risk profession or suspect you’ve been in contact with an infected person, you do not qualify for a test at CVS as of today.
They need to get this fixed in the next 10 days or Hawaii is in trouble….again.
Sad to see Camp Chaos is still running at its full potential! I was hoping to not have break my chain of 30 years vacationing in Hawaii but between this crap and what would be required upon actually arriving and supposedly vacationing in Hawaii is almost unbelievable and certainly not the kind of Hawaii experience that I am accustomed to or am currently agreeable to. Maybe next year or whenever Camp Chaos breaks up.
The phone number you listed in this article is tech support for the website. They can’t answer questions regarding travel
Summary: After 6 months of flatlining w/ no learning curve and as time goes on Hawaii continues its history of poor decision making and lack of progress on critical issues.
This is especially the case with the island economy and the main economic driver the tourism industry and all related occupations. Stop the bs and take concrete steps daily weekly and monthly to get back to normal asap!