Yes, Mexico is now open for Americans and is one of the only countries that don’t require a Covid-19 testing prior to visiting or a 14-day quarantine upon arrival. Even though bars and clubs are still closed, hotels and restaurants in Cabo, Cancún, Playa Del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta and Tulum have reopened.

As someone who recently visited Cancún, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, I can say that if you are comfortable and taking the precautions to travel during this time, Mexico is the place to go! Of course, a passport and mask are required to visit.

Maya Ruins in Tulum, Quintana Roo - May 2020

Flying: A question I get the most is who I fly with and how are they seating everyone. I flew from Charlotte to Cancún with a layover in Miami through American Airlines. All airlines are requiring that flyers wear a mask at all times, and some are even leaving the middle seat open for social distancing. American Airlines are not leaving the middle seat open but are taking precautions during the pandemic to assure the safety of their customers.

While in Mexico: I didn’t know what to expect visiting another country during these times. I was actually impressed with the steps and procedures everyone took in Mexico. The resort, hotel, public/private transportations and companies I used for excursions were clean and well organized. There was not a time I questioned whether I should be here or not. Even though it was a different experience compared to my previous trips to Mexico, I can say that it was still relaxing and a much-needed vacation.

Things I Did While Vacationing During A Pandemic: The resort I stayed at was all-inclusive and had everything I needed from a 24-hour snack bar, several restaurants, multiple pools, spa, and a private beach. As of now public beaches are closed due to the pandemic. If you are looking to layout of the beach, staying at a resort/hotel with a beach is your best bet.

Even though the resort had all that I needed, I did leave to explore Tulum for a day. Unfortunately, no one told us the Mayan ruins in Tulum were closed too. Since tourism plays a huge role in how locals make money, there was an alternative to seeing the ruins. I believe I paid $800 pesos ($40 USD) to rent a bike and ride a few miles to a private beach where there was a restaurant with a bar and access to the beach. There was someone waiting and took a group of us on a small boat. During the boat ride we were able to see the ruins and swim in the coral reefs.

The next day, I had excursion planned to swim with whale sharks. Yes, whale sharks. Whale sharks are the third largest sea creatures. This excursion cost around $160 USD and included the transfer to and from the dock, a lite breakfast, and lunch. At the dock the instructors held a brief meeting about what to expect. The boat ride into sea was at least 2-hours long. Everyone was extremely seasick by the time the crew spotted the whale sharks, but it didn’t stop us from jumping in! I’m honestly surprised that I did it and due to the nausea and long boat ride, I can’t say that I would do it again.

Originally, I was supposed to be in Cancún for 4 days but ended up changing my flight and stayed in Playa Del Carmen for two more days. In my opinion, Playa Del Carmen was more enjoyable than Cancún; it was livelier. Although, the public beaches were closed, I enjoyed the roof top pool at my hotel and the restaurants.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Mexico:

Valid Passport Required
Mask Required
Carry cash to avoid unnecessary fees
Exchange USD to small pesos to avoid getting overcharged

It is okay to bargain
Tipping is encouraged
- Resorts (not required but leaving $1-2 pesos is a nice gesture)
- Restaurants (10-15% in pesos)
- Spas (15%)
- Tour Guides (at least 10 pesos)
- Taxi (not required but if they are helping you with your luggage or staying with you the whole day it is recommended)
It cost to pee; make sure you have coins
Carry napkins/tissue with you. There may or may not be tissue in every restroom