I just returned from my 2nd trip to Mexico during COVID-19. (I’ll share a link to tell you about my first experience below.)
I was in the Cancun/Riviera Maya area from November 29 – December 6, 2020 and while there, I visited three resorts.
The first resort I stayed at was a luxury all-inclusive resort in Riviera Maya and the experience was unbelievable because of the extremely low capacity.
Out of 578 rooms, only 25 rooms were booked, so it was like we had the place to ourselves. It was really nice, to be honest, but it made me sad because of all the employees that were not able to work.
Often times we were at the beach by ourselves, at the pool by ourselves, and once we even were in a restaurant by ourselves (for a few minutes!)
If you want to get away, be pampered, get a complimentary upgrade, and an amazing price, I highly recommend it! Send me an email: tami@paradisegetaways.net.
While there were perks to such low capacity, there were a few draw backs as well:
- Not all the restaurants were open
- Not all the areas of the resort were open
- There was no evening entertainment of any kind
- The spa nor hydrotherapy circuit was open
I certainly understood why it wasn’t 100% operational, but we were not expecting that to be the case, so it was a bit disappointing.
As a wedding & travel professional (and also a wedding business coach), I believe that managing expectations is the key to success. As a result of preparing my clients for exactly what they will experience, I receive great reviews and referrals.
In today’s climate, it is simply too risky to DIY travel as it is still an investment and you want to be prepared, so that you can relax and enjoy your vacation, plus have the experience you are envisioning. Knowledge is power.
The second and third resorts I stayed at were at about 40% capacity, which still allowed for plenty of space yet provided a more “normal” feel with more people at the resort.
One of the resorts was allowed entertainment due to their outdoor seating space, while the other had entertainment come to you during dinner as well as had a musician play in the lobby where people can sit and enjoy a cocktail.
So, keep in mind that each resort’s inclusions will vary. Some resorts will have the spa open and others will bring the spa to you or only offer outdoor massages.
Every resort is offering something different and as the restrictions lift, protocols continue to change and will eventually get back to “business as usual.”
If you want to read more details about the protocols in place to make Mexico a safe place to vacation to, check out my blog and videos from August 2020.
To answer the question, “Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now?” My personal opinion is “Yes.” Not only have I visited there twice in the last five months, but I just had a wedding group travel to Puerto Vallarta, and they had an amazing experience.
Is it a bit of a nuisance to wear a mask from the moment you step foot at the airport until you get to the resort? Yes. But like anything in life, depending on how badly you want something will determine what you will put up with to receive it.
Traveling right now is a personal decision. For me, I work from home and have a built-in quarantine, and that adds to my confidence.
As long as you are willing to be compliant with the protocols to keep yourself and those around you safe, it is doable.
I personally recommend Mexico because it doesn’t require a COVID-19 test for entry, but the CDC does advise getting a test prior to departure and upon returning home. In my opinion, this would be good to do for your peace of mind and especially if you work outside the home.
Any questions? Feel free to pop them below! 👇
P.S.
Downtown Playa del Carmen at night is not social distancing. I would avoid that area if you are concerned or definitely keep your mask on and have some hand sanitizer!
P.P.S.
Do me a favor. Please book with a travel professional! We’ve been working since March 2020 without pay (rebooking trips, canceling trips, helping clients with insurance claims etc.) – Thank you! 💖
