Checking in: Welcome back to Cancun
From a travel advisor who is there right now
CentreHoliday’s Oksana Mashchak recently arrived in Cancun as her first international trip since the pandemic changed the face of travel.
Mashchak, who has been in the travel industry for seven years and specializes in tropical beaches and weddings, says one of the most notable differences is the amount of resort and beach space travellers have as occupancy rates are kept low.
“With preparation, a wonderful vacation is possible even with 14-days quarantine upon return,” Mashchak tells Travel Courier. “I feel fortunate to support Mexico and our airline, and also to test the process for my clients who choose to travel.”
Want to know more about what it’s like travelling to Cancun right now? Here’s Mashchak’s firsthand account.
What changes did you notice upon arrival?
Biggest change was in how things are cleaned even before you get to reception. Luggage is being sanitized, shoes and wheels are taken through the satirizing mats. Temperature checks and sanitizer gel sections. Our hotel had online check in, so we got a notification when the room was ready and to go get the keys.
Our choice was Cancun as the workers are always so diligent and go out of their way to welcome tourists. I find the selection of hotels and quality to be amazing value in this destination. Plus the beautiful beach and the many shades of blue. Staff thanked us on multiple occasions for coming to support them.
Where are you staying and what is the experience like?
Our first hotel was Hyatt Ziva Cancun, and our stay was fantastic: Concierge reserved dinner for us, and what was operational. Most services were offered — except the lobby bar. Restaurants were open on rotation but scheduled in a way that you can try them all. I did like that the breakfast buffet was open and a change of having a glass barrier and all food served on your plate is one we should keep. Way cleaner, less food waste and more hygienic (pandemic or not). Most self-serves have been eliminated, so anything you want is served to you by staff in gloves with minimal contact. Beach beds are also disinfected the moment someone leaves their spot, as are the tables. Rooms are cleaned and sealed, and housekeeping is available on request.
Is mask wearing enforced or encouraged in public spaces?
Staff must wear face masks, and gloves when serving food. Guests do not have to. Guests have to walk through foot wear sanitizer stations and clean hands before entering any food establishment. Tables are spaced out to adhere to distancing.
What do you think those in industry should know about travelling again?
If anything, resorts feel way cleaner and safer than back home. They allow plenty of space, and services are better than ever. All contact areas are disinfected regularly. Elevator buttons were wiped down several times each hour.
Is it possible to still have a “normal” vacation?
It is very possible to have a normal vacation and a dream come true for those who enjoy their space and absence of crowds. A little more relaxing as well.
Are your clients booking trips already despite the self-isolation requirement?
A lot of my clients are still waiting, but a few who can work from home upon arrival, or stay-at-home mothers whose spouse works out of town have booked a vacation. The 14 days is what is stopping the majority of my clients from travelling.
