As we all saw from Ted Cruz's desperate attempt to flee Texas's winter storm (and perhaps some less notorious trips all over your IG feed as well), Mexico has largely remained open during the pandemic. In fact, it was first announced last June, merely three months after lockdown in the United States, that the country's most famous resort destinations such as Cancún and the Riviera Maya would be reopening to tourists (despite rising case numbers).
As for Mexico's status right now? Let's just say it’s complicated.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tourists should avoid all travel to Mexico and technically there's a ban on non-essential travel across the border. As of March 22, Mexico's average number of cases in a seven-day period hovered between 4,200 and 4,900. But as we mentioned, that hasn't stopped international vacationers from flocking to its pristine beaches.
So let's break it down.
The land border between Mexico and the United States is closed for non-essential travel through April 21. However, air travel is allowed from all countries. Unlike many countries currently accepting tourists, there is no need to provide a negative PCR test or quarantine upon arrival. In fact, the only thing visitors have to do is complete a health declaration form and scan the QR code it generates on arrival.
For those looking to travel outside the popular destinations, you should know that not every Mexican state is in the same stage of reopening. Quintana Roo, which includes Cancún and Playa del Carmen, is listed as 'yellow,' which means all work has resumed and public gatherings are allowed to take place. Mexico City, however, is still designated as 'orange' which curbs gatherings in public spaces and includes restrictions on restaurants and bars.
If this all sound a little complicated, you can always check out any of the equally beautiful Caribbean countries that are currently open for tourism. Either way, you may well have the beach all to yourself.
Remember, many countries (including the USA) are still warning against all non-essential travel and some are quarantining all overseas arrivals, including their own returning citizens. Check all the relevant restrictions before you think about traveling.
Where can you travel right now? Here’s what you need to know.