TORONTO — The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority (SVGTA) is reminding Canadian travel agents, and their clients, that any travellers looking to vacation in SVG this winter can still do so via Barbados.

Connectivity to the islands from Canada took a hit earlier this month with the news that Air Canada and ACV were temporarily suspending service to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It was one of 14 sun destinations in ACV’s Jan. 6, 2022 announcement, impacted by weakened demand due to omicron and the Canadian government’s ramped up travel restrictions.

Glenn Beache, CEO for the SVGTA, says: “While the suspension of Air Canada’s direct flights from Toronto to St. Vincent is certainly disappointing, we want to remind Canadians that alternatives are available, including via Air Canada’s weekly direct service from Toronto (YYZ) and Montreal (YUL) to Barbados (BGI).”

As Beache notes, upon arrival in Bridgetown “it’s a quick 45-minute flight to Argyle International Airport, with lots of departure options available on regional airlines.”

Resort options abound too, he added, including the brand new five-star La Vue Boutique Hotel and Beach Club St. Vincent. The new property just opened in December 2021 with 19 guestrooms, three restaurants, several bars, a gym (with squash court and sauna), a spa, and tennis court. The hotel is also fully wheelchair accessible.

Other top picks include Sandy Lane Yacht Club & Residences on Canouan, Petit St. Vincent Private Island Resort and Beachcombers Hotel.

With St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ updated COVID-19 protocols, fully vaccinated travellers must arrive with proof of vaccination and a negative PCR test completed no more than 72 hours or three days before arrival. These travellers will not be retested during their stay, nor will they have to complete any mandatory quarantine upon arrival. Full details can be found here.