Our experience in Mexico during COVID-19 Pandemic
(390 Reviews)
98% Recommended
Pam MacIntyre
Maple Grove, MN
Australia & New Zealand Specialist
New Zealand
In all my years as a Travel Professional, with curiosity I've asked several the question "What are your must see countries?" I was hard pressed to find one that did not list New Zealand! I mean who wouldn't wa...
New Zealand
In all my years as a Travel Professional, with curiosity I've asked several the question "What are your must see countries?" I was hard pressed to find one that did not list New Zealand! I mean who wouldn't want to experience this majestic part of the world?
Recently I was able to explore several areas of this amazing country, being fortunate in visiting both the North & South Island. What I love is New Zealand can be mellow or action-packed, yet it will still always be epic!
From the endless national parks, dynamic Maori culture, to experiencing the sounds aboard a yacht while gazing upon dolphins. And let’s not forget about laying witness to the majestic beauty of a sperm whale off the coast of Kaikoura.
Wait, did you say you enjoy wine? They have some of THE best in the world....how do I know? Because how could I go all the way to New Zealand and not visit a winery or two. New Zealand offers the deliciousness of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Merlot and many more!
I really could go on and on, but no need if you're reading this you already KNOW you want to explore this part of the world. I would love to help you create the best version of New Zealand for you!
Australia
Let me start by saying, I have been wanting to go to Australia since I was a child. Why you ask? Well to pet a kangaroo of course! And I did! Not only did I pet kangaroos, but I fed 4 simultaneously! It was a childhood dream come true, and I cannot wait to go back and repeat the experience.
I was in Sydney during the spectacular International lights and music festival, Vivid Sydney. It was their 10th year, and all I've got to say is WOW! Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought Australia would be so perfect to visit during their winter season. Although being from Minnesota it was more like our fall temperatures. So again, perfect! It was extra special to experience VIVID Sydney and see the iconic Sydney Opera House light up. If you travel during this time of year, it truly is a must see.
The Blue Mountains region of Australia was truly lovely to walk amongst. Then headed to Hunter Valley (to locals known as "The Hunter") where wine in this region was flowing plentifully and was quite delicious!
After making a visit to Australia I now understand why many choose to go there for 2 - 4 weeks on a vacation. It's truly hard to grasp the sheer size of Australia until you have been there yourself. To give you an idea, think about the USA. Sydney would be in Florida; Cairns (Great Barrier Reef) would be in Maine; Uluru (Ayers Rock) would be in Kansas; Melbourne would be New Orleans; and Perth would be Los Angeles.
If you're looking to visit the world's largest Great Barrier Reef, immerse yourself in Aboriginal communities, swim with whale sharks or gaze upon the Uluru (Ayers Rock) the possibilities really are endless in Australia!
Together we'll create your dream trip to Australia that you'll remember for the rest of your days!
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When you're ready to travel again ... I am here.
Many of us after months of being cooped up have been dreaming of their next getaway! While not everyone is ready to travel, the desire is high in many.
The question is -- what does travel in a post COVID-19 world look like?
To better understand travel in this new world we headed to Mexico in October 2020. I jokingly tell my clients when I'm headed off to some new exotic destination "The things I do for my people to give them firsthand insight!" Well in this case, that's never been more true. I'm now in a position to give you a play-by-play walk through of what my experience was traveling during a Pandemic.
When traveling these days there are 2 things you cannot leaving home without:
- Your Government Issued ID needed for your Destination
- Your Mask
Masks will be required throughout your travels for the foreseeable future. The airport nor airline is responsible to provide masks. Though it can vary a bit from one airline to the next, children ages 2+ are asked to wear a mask during travels.
Parking:
We reserved in advance off-site discounted parking. I recommend making advance reservations to not only to ensure availability, but also often for better reduced rates. When we arrived, we did end up having to wait longer than usual for a shuttle driver to take us to the airport (about 30 min.) so this in turn caused us to feel a bit more rushed even though we allowed the usual amount of time. Many parking lots at a reduced staff during the pandemic. As travel increases we anticipate the staffing will return back to normal, but for now be sure to allow additional time if you plan to park off-site.
Airport Experience:
We flew with Sun Country Airlines. It was a bit more chaotic than normal again due to reduced staffing. When given the option, we always upgrade to Priority Check-in and Boarding to avoid the longer lines. With a bit of waiting ... we made it through without incident and TSA security lines were a breeze. We personally have Global Entry which adds to the seamless airport experience.
I want to note that due to our delay with the shuttle we were running a bit behind and jogged our way to TSA. I admit I had a moment where I struggled slightly with heavier breathing with the mask on ... and thought to myself how am I going to wear this for 4 hours. My breathing regulated after our little run was over and I had no issues the rest of the time traveling. Traveling can be stressful enough as it is so be sure to add a little extra time.
Sun Country is a more low-cost carrier offering service from many U.S. Cities. Ultimately not all airlines are created equal. Depending on the level of experience you're looking for, I can help match you with the appropriate airline.
Flying:
The flight was fairly normal outside of the no drink/snack service and wearing a mask. We just planned for this, bought snacks & beverages after clearing TSA. Everyone on the flight, outside of a handful of kids were wearing their masks.
Arrival (Customs/Transportation):
Outside of wearing masks, it was business as usual including the "rat race" to get your luggage. Some were distancing, others were not -- but everyone was wearing masks. Masks are also required on transportation, however you may remove it to take a drink of your cerveza!
Resort:
While each resort will vary on their specific COVID-19 protocols/requirements here are ones that were in effect at the Paradisus Playa Del Carmen during our stay:
- Lobby/Check-in: Plastic partition between guests/employees, providing wrapped pens at check-in & spraying down air and counters after each guest. Sanitizing your luggage with a steam solution before it's brought to you. Temp Checks upon arrival. All employees wearing masks at all times.
- Rooms: Remote control & cups wrapped in plastic, phones sealed indicating cleaned, additional items such as robes/slippers not in the room Many items normally in rooms can be requested through concierge.
- Restaurants: Socially distanced lines & temp checks for check-in, spaced out tables, menus via phone (can request menu if no smart phone). To eliminate touch points for contagions servers bring you everything with tongs, sealed utensils & guests required to wear mask walking to table. You may remove your mask when seated. After each meal they wipe down table & chairs with disinfectant. If buffet dining is available, they'll dish it up for you.
- Additional: Hand & foot sanitizing stations outside of restaurants, bathrooms, door exits, etc. Only 2 to an elevator. Bottled water everywhere.
Departure:
Outside of a medical questions you filled out to show QR code it was business as usual.
Final Note: My guy said "I feel more comfortable at the resort over any place back home."
For U.S. Travelers quarantining after International Travel is a suggested guideline, not currently a requirement. Travel during COVID-19 is a fluid situation, however rest assured we'll always keep you up-to-date with the latest protocols, guidelines, suggestions and requirements for your specific trip.