I recently traveled to Mexico so that I could experience firsthand the new rules, practices, and protocols in one of the destinations that’s currently welcoming American guests. It’s certainly not back to “normal”, but for anyone who is comfortable with being out and about at home (i.e. grocery stores, restaurants, shopping, etc.), it’s not really any more cumbersome or risky, and it will likely be a welcome reprieve.
Getting to Mexico was the hardest part (as always). There are no non-stop flights from my gateway, so I had to take connecting flights. It was a long day of wearing a mask and maintaining appropriate social distance. For me, it was more than worth it!
Flying
I flew Southwest Airlines, and my flights were not at all crowded. In fact, I ended up with an exit row all to myself! Southwest is currently asking people to sit in either an aisle or window seat (no middle seat unless you’re traveling together).
Under the new protocols, there is very limited snack and beverage service – a cup of water and a bag of pretzels. While Cancun has reduced the number of terminals that are open, the terminal for international flights was bustling. Most flights and people were arriving from the USA.
Health screening
On arrival and departure at the Cancun airport, there is a thermal scanner that all arriving guests walk past (temperature scan). A health questionnaire may be required by the your airline or gateway. For our return, we filled out an online form with questions about COVID symptoms and had to show the QR code at security prior to boarding our flight home.
I was left wondering why we don’t have thermal scanners at airports in the US to check for elevated temperatures prior to departure (or upon arrival). It seems to be an easy change to implement.
Travel insurance
Insurance is more important now than ever. I wouldn’t travel without it. I recommend purchasing travel insurance that not only has a trip cancellation component but includes medical coverage (and medical evacuation, if necessary) while traveling.
Protocols In destination
Masks and distancing are required at the airport, in the transfer, and at the hotel check-in desk. Luggage is being sprayed and wiped down on arrival, doors to rooms are sealed to indicate they have been sanitized, and some “high-touch” amenities are missing from the rooms. There seemed to be some differences in how resorts are handling protocols, but all of them are cleaning and sanitizing everything (railings, tables, chairs, etc.). Staff members wear masks at all times. Hand sanitizer is available virtually everywhere and is encouraged before entering buildings, restaurants, lobbies, etc.
Low occupancy
In Mexico, the resorts and are currently being capped at 30% occupancy by the government. Some of the services and amenities at resorts are understandably not available (some spa areas/treatments, tours, indoor bars/clubs, etc.). Tables in restaurants are spaced more than 6 feet apart. The same goes for sun loungers and pool chairs. Staffing levels seem to vary a bit. At some resorts, it seemed that the staff count was directly in proportion to the number of guests. In others, there seemed to be a high staff to guest ratio.
A Great Time To Visit
Overall, visitors to Mexico are enjoying the lack of crowds, the friendly service, and the beautiful scenery. The beaches are very quiet, and there’s not much nightlife. However, on several occasions, I overheard people talking about how much they were enjoying their stay. One couple that I met said that they had extended for several more days beyond what they initially had planned.
For people with a preexisting condition or at higher risk, it may be best to wait a bit. But for healthy people who feel comfortable with travel and the existing protocols (masks, distancing, and sanitizing), it may very well be a refreshing change. It’s so nice to feel pampered and welcome and be surrounded by tropical beauty.
As always, you should check for any travel advisories issued by the State Department. You should also enroll in STEP to ensure that you are well informed and that family and friends would be able to get in touch in an emergency.
Please let me know if you have any questions about travel to Mexico, or if you would like additional information.
FNS Travel Group creates unique, memorable, and stress-free luxury getaways. Please call us at 855-557-5588, or visit on the web for more information.
