The islands are taking a phased approach to restarting their tourism and hospitality sectors, and this week welcomed the UK government’s decision to place both on its list of quarantine exemptions.

This month, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority will roll out its new Your Space in the Sun campaign across social media and TV, designed to encourage those dreaming of a post-lockdown getaway to consider the islands.

It will also detail the islands’ new health and safety measures to combat the spread of coronavirus, and make holidaying across the destination safe.

The tourism authority said it was delighted the islands would be opening up to UK travellers from 1 August.

Your Space in the Sun will highlight the islands’ many wide open spaces, 365 beaches, and offerings to help visitors "think, heal and relax" after months under lockdown.

“The campaign represents our country and what we stand for beautifully – the idea of space is something we have in abundance and is undoubtedly what attracts people to visit," said Colin James, chief executive of the tourism authority.

The TV ad will run on ITV Hub in the UK throughout July.

New safety measures implemented across the islands include:

• Requiring all arrivals to provide evidence of a negative Covid PCR (antigen) test taken within seven days of their flight (includes transiting passengers);
• Arrivals by sea to be subject to quarantine according to port guidelines;
• All arrivals must wear face masks on disembarkation and in public areas. Masks are also mandatory in all public spaces across the islands;
• Guests must adhere to social/physical distancing protocols;
• Arrivals must complete a health declaration form and submit to screening and temperature checks upon arrival;
• Arrivals to be monitored for Covid for periods of up to 14 days, and may also be required to undergo testing on arrival or at their hotel or accommodation;
• Anyone arriving with Covid symptoms may be isolated