Mexico has long been a popular pick for a vacation thanks to its balmy beaches, fascinating heritage sites, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals and events. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic affecting where and how we travel, you may be searching for some expert advice on this destination. Our travel specialists have put together the following tips to help you decide whether a Mexico vacation is the right option for you.
First of all, should I travel internationally right now?
With many countries imposing extra restrictions for visitors during the coronavirus pandemic, it’s not surprising that international travel is currently quite limited. Some nations require a negative coronavirus test upon arrival, while others may even require you to quarantine for up to two weeks.
Nevertheless, there are still plenty of places where it’s possible to safely enjoy a vacation. You can check the status of every nation on the planet using the government Travel Advisories service, with each country falling into one of the following categories:
- Level 1 – Exercise normal precautions
- Level 2 – Exercise increased precautions
- Level 3 – Reconsider travel
- Level 4 – Do not travel
As a general rule, you shouldn’t travel anywhere if you or someone you live with is showing any symptoms of COVID-19. If you or someone you live with is classified as a vulnerable person due to health reasons, vacationing abroad may increase your risk of contracting the virus.
Is it safe to travel right now to Mexico?
With the COVID-19 pandemic ongoing, many people have asked us where it’s currently safe to travel to. As direct flights are available from many departure points within the United States, Mexico is a natural choice for a sunny getaway. With many people currently reluctant to venture too far from home, the country also has the added benefit of being just a short direct flight away from many US airports. If you’d like more information about how airlines have changed safety procedures, watch this informational video from Aeromexico.
COVID-19 in Mexico
If Mexico is on your agenda to visit next, it’s a good idea to follow the CDC’s official advice when it comes to COVID-19. They’re currently recommending that all non-essential travel to Mexico be avoided, however, this advice is subject to frequent change as the situation progresses.
According to the Mexican government site, the entire country is operating under a traffic light system when it comes to COVID-19 cases. Before you travel, make sure you take a look at what color the area you’re hoping to visit is classified under. Unless the region is classed as green (this means you can go out but should be cautious and take preventative measures), you may want to postpone your trip. In general, Mexico’s COVID-19 safety procedures align with CDC recommendations.
Regardless of where you’re traveling to in Mexico, it’s a good idea to follow our expert Coronavirus safety tips, including:
- Staying six feet away from people who are not in your immediate household
- Wearing a face mask which covers your mouth and nose
- Washing and/or sanitizing your hands regularly to eradicate germs
Crime in Mexico
When it comes to other safety issues in Mexico beyond COVID-19, crime may be something you’re concerned about. Like every country, there are certain areas in Mexico that are best avoided by visitors. Specifically, we’d recommend staying away from the regions around the US border. For detailed advice on these destinations, talk to one of our travel experts.
While you are in Mexico, your safety and well-being is our top priority. We employ a reliable and reputable team who are able to guide you safely through the beautiful sites while avoiding any risks. However, as with many other countries in the world, we advise you to be cautious at all times. Kidnapping and petty crime can be problems in certain parts of Mexico, so it’s crucial that you remain vigilant and bear in mind the following safety advice:
- Don’t carry around large amounts of cash or valuables.
- Be extra cautious if you’re out at night, especially if you’re alone.
- Make sure someone back home has a copy of your itinerary and knows where you are at all times.
- Be aware of your surroundings when using ATMs or handling money.
- Avoid driving at night, especially in more rural areas where help may be hours away.
We also recommend signing up for STEP (Smart Traveler Enrolment Program) which will allow you to receive relevant safety information, advice, and alerts about your chosen destination from local US embassies.
We’d be happy to create a personalized Mexico itinerary for you that prioritizes your health and personal safety. Reach out to us today with any questions or ideas you have for a trip of a lifetime to this incredible country!