Las Vegas: Hotel-Based COVID-19 Testing
A few hotels in Las Vegas are now providing Covid-19 testing to their guests. This includes the Cosmopolitan, the California Hotel and Fremont, and MGM Resorts. These establishments are trying to contain the virus by offering on-site testing. Results from these tests will not only help improve safety standards but also support tourists from countries with stringent travel restrictions.
Combating the pandemic creatively
These casino hotels are joining forces to bring back much-needed tourism to Las Vegas. Due to the pandemic, hotels, arcades, and casinos have experienced a downturn at times. Though infection rates are currently dropping, casino operators in the US gambling capital remain vigilant. The on-site testing facilities are meant to give tourists across the globe a sense of safety when planning a visit to Vegas.
The Cosmopolitan began offering this service since it reopened on June 4, 2020, and has set up a testing facility in the "Reviv Spa." Both hotel guests and the general public can avail of this service 24/7. People who test negative for Covid-19 can receive certificates for their airlines or accommodation. The test is carried out using polymerase chain reaction, which detects the genetic material of the virus. The cost for this is said to be $100.
Boyd Gaming Corporation is taking a more pocket-friendly approach with its test offensive. A test will cost $90. This gaming company is responsible for the California Hotel and Fremont and is partnering with Hawaiian Airlines to offer testing for its customers and Hawaiian travelers staying at the California Hotel. The company is aware of its core clientele and is trying to get business back to normal with its testing strategy. Strict Covid-19 measures are currently in place in Hawaii, which makes it difficult for returnees to avoid a two-week quarantine without a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours of their arrival.
Different Approach from MGM Resorts
MGM Resorts, unlike its local counterparts, is adopting a different strategy and won't be offering coronavirus tests at their property. Instead, their guests can avail of transport to external testing facilities and laboratories, as well as a telephone medical consultation. This way, experts from a university hospital can ensure a proper exchange of information.
However, MGM Resorts hasn't divulged too many details about their testing concept. Media reports indicate that representatives of the MGM resort refused to shed light on their plans. Even after several queries, "Caesars Entertainment Inc.," "Red Rock Resorts Inc.," "Wynn Resorts Ltd." and "Las Vegas Sands Corp." failed to make any public statements about their testing program.
Economic Crisis in Las Vegas
It's yet to be seen if the Covid-19 tests offered by the three casino hotels can contain the pandemic enough to bring back a sense of normalcy. But even if this project succeeds, the economy in Las Vegas will continue to struggle. The city has been hit hard by the extensive virus and experienced an unprecedented financial downtown in 2020. It's not just gambling that's been affected; also, trade fairs and the famous Vegas shows had to be canceled for a long time. As a result, Las Vegas lost its primary source of income - tourism.
The number of visitors in 2020 compared to the previous five years showcases the severity of the situation. A total of 19 million tourists visited Las Vegas, compared to the usual 42 million.
A glimmer of hope? The situation in Las Vegas appears to be stabilizing somewhat. The number of infections has been decreasing since the end of January, prompting the local government to loosen restrictions in place. For example, casinos and gambling halls can now operate at 35% capacity. Libraries, museums, art galleries, aquariums, and zoos are even allowed to use half their actual capacity.
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Source: www.onlinecasinosdeutschland.com
