In light of rising COVID-19 rates and new strains of the virus appearing, French Polynesia has become the latest country to close its borders.
As of Feb. 3, the country, which is home to the islands of Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Moorea, will temporarily suspend incoming travel from all countries.
A statement from Tahiti Tourism said, “Faced with the resurgence of COVID-19 cases around the world and in order to preserve French Polynesia which has for its part, shown significant improvement for several consecutive weeks, the authorities have decided to temporarily suspend travel to The Islands of Tahiti including for tourists from all origins until further notice.”
Travelers who are currently in French Polynesia and scheduled to leave this week will be allowed to finish out the remainder of their trips.
Although tourism is temporarily ending, French Polynesia will continue to allow essential visits, such as those for business purposes, those for health reasons, such as a medical emergency, and those for familial reasons, such as a relative’s death.
Travelers visiting for any of these purposes will be required to show a negative PCR COVID-19 test result from within 72 hours of their departure. In addition, they must perform a self-test four days after arriving in the country.
The island nation has also mandated mask wearing, closed clubs and bars, and added a 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. curfew that will be in effect until Feb. 15.
Related: The Philippines Is The Latest Country To Close Its Borders To U.S. Travelers