Celeste Peters, Caribbean travel specialist and owner of Caribbean Travel Queen, recently traveled to Cancun, Mexico. From check-in to check-out, she shared her experience with The Compass.
How was your airport experience in-destination?
Arriving at the airport in Mexico was more organized than I expected. Not knowing what to expect, my anxiety level was very high.
Once we departed the airplane we were given hand sanitizer and walked through an automatic temperature scan, which if you weren't paying attention you would not have noticed. There are signs on the ground to keep everyone 6 feet apart. The process was quick and only took about 20 minutes. Once we cleared immigration we retrieved our luggage and was on our way. On the return home there is a new protocol where every passenger must go online to a link and fill out a health questionnaire. You must show proof that you filled it out by showing a print screen of the scan on your phone or a printed copy of it before you are allowed to go through security. I felt that this was not explained very well and a few passengers were a little confused on what to do.
How was your transfer experience in-destination?
When we exited the airport we were quickly greeted by a representative holding a sign from the transportation company. We were given more hand sanitizer and before entering the van the bottom of our shoes were sprayed with sanitizer. The driver wore a mask the entire time. In the past there would be other people in the van, but this time it was just my husband and I.
What resorts did you visit?
I visited two resorts during my stay in Cancun: Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun and Oleo Cancun Playa.
What is your main takeaway in regards to safety and health from visiting the resort(s)?
I feel that the Mexican government is taking the safety of guests and their citizens very seriously by implementing strict regulations. The resorts are only allowed to operate at a 30% capacity. Before entering the hotels each guest is required to get their temperature checked and recorded, as well as fill out a covid-19 health questionnaire. The luggage is sanitized before it is brought inside. All employees must wear face masks at all times and guests are asked to wear masks in the common areas like the lobby. Before entering the restaurants your temperature is taken and you scan the menu with your cell phone. I noticed that guests were also maintaining 6 feet distance around the pool and bar areas. All of these safety measures made me feel relaxed while I was vacationing. I actually felt safer than in my own home town.
What do you think is the most important thing to share with travelers about your experience?
As a professional travel advisor, I feel it is my responsibility to keep up to date with all of the new travel procedures and protocols for my clients. Having firsthand knowledge, I am able to provide the facts and let everyone make their own decision whether to travel based on their comfort level. If clients do not feel comfortable traveling right now, I advise them to postpone their travel plans to a later date.
Would you visit Mexico again this year?
Because of my great experience and all of the safety measures in Mexico, I've already scheduled my next visit to Cabo San Lucas in November.
Disclaimer: The views, information and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Compass and VAX VacationAccess.
comments