Cruise Ships Banned From South Pacific Islands Due to Coronavirus Fears

Fears of novel coronavirus spreading to the pristine South Pacific islands have prompted an unprecedented move by tribal chiefs to close the New Caledonian ports of Lifou, Mare and Isle of Pines. The initial decision, announced January 31 by Lifou and Mare and February 3 by Isle of Pines, was hoped to be temporary but the three ports remain closed almost two weeks later. (cruisecritic.com)