A few days ago, I returned from my first trip since the start of the pandemic, and travelling to Mexico from Canada was a wonderful first experience for getting back to travel again.

I departed Toronto, Ontario on Saturday, October 2nd, returning on Saturday, October 9th. I flew direct to Cancun on Swoop. 

Requirements for Travelling to Mexico from Canada

There are very few additional requirements for travelling to Mexico from Canada. We are not required to be tested or vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter Mexico at the time of writing. However, I am fully vaccinated, and I did go for a rapid antigen test at my local Shoppers Drug Mart, since I would be spending time with a group of other travel agents during the trip. The test cost $40 CDN and the negative result was provided in 15 minutes on a printout.

Tip: Bring your passport or a photo of it with you to your test appointment.

Departing Canada

If you’ve travelled south pre-pandemic, you’re familiar with the usual process, and this was pretty much my experience flying to Mexico. Airline check-in and security were a breeze, and I was sitting at my seat at the gate with a coffee in hand well in advance of the flight.

At Pearson, there were visible markers to remind passengers that social distancing and masks are required throughout the airport unless you’re actively eating or drinking.

The Flight

There were approximately 30 passengers on board. I did not select my seat ahead of time. All passengers were seated across the wing section of the plane for takeoff, but were permitted to sit spread out for the remainder of the flight, and I took advantage of this, sitting distanced from other passengers. Passengers were provided with an anti-bacterial wipe upon boarding. A limited selection of snacks was available for purchase with credit card. Alcohol was not available on board. Face masks were required throughout the flight.

Arrival in Mexico

Upon arrival to Mexico, travellers must pass through customs where they are provided with a Mexico tourist card. You must keep this until the end of your trip, and return it upon departure. A paper slip was provided on the flight. Pens were not available, so be sure to bring one with you.

You may be asked to complete the health questionnaire upon arrival. I was not asked to show this, although I did complete it within 12 hours of my flight to Mexico.

Tip: You can fill out the Mexican tourist card online ahead of time and bring a printout with you.

My Stay at Palace Resorts

My stay was split between Playacar Palace and Sun Palace. I also visited Cozumel Palace, Beach Palace and Isla Mujeres Palace. All of the resorts are doing a wonderful job of keeping visitors safe. There is a limit of two guests per elevator, social distancing reminders and hand sanitizer readily available throughout the properties. Upon entry to the hotel, visitors are provided with a squirt of hand sanitizer.

Staff members did not remove their face masks at all during my stay. Guests must wear masks indoors when not in their hotel room unless eating or drinking. The buffet was open, but for those uncomfortable with this format, à la carte restaurants were also open for dining. Room service is delivered to your door, and if you’re comfortable, your order can still be brought right into your hotel room.

Enjoying a luxurious hotel room with the ability to relax in a pool or on the beach in that warm tropical air was priceless! The drinks and food were delicious and plentiful. The service was exceptional. The hotel was immaculate. I would not hesitate to recommend a stay at a Palace Resort for your next vacation. Each resort has its own personality, which means there is something for everyone. I can help you determine the best fit.

PCR testing was done on site for an additional fee, and my negative result was provided via e-mail within about 32 hours.

Departing Mexico

For my return to Canada, in addition to providing my passport, at the airport I had to:

• Provide the airline with the receipt from my ArriveCAN app submission (travel and personal details plus proof of vaccination slips uploaded)
• Show my negative PCR test, especially the date and time of the test, my name and confirmation of test type
• Return my Mexico tourist card, which was provided on arrival
• Fill out a health questionnaire within 12 hours prior to boarding…this is FREE and you do not need to pay a fee to complete the form

Tip: The health questionnaire can also be done ahead of time on your phone, and a QR code is all that’s needed to show as proof of completion.

All in all, the travel experience to Mexico hasn’t changed enormously. The biggest change is the additional administrative tasks that come with checking into your flights and the public health measures in place such as wearing a face covering.

My best piece of advice for travel south right now is to stay organized, be patient and keep copies of tests and vaccine records with you during your trip. Get vaccinated against COVID-19. Wear your mask. Wash your hands. 

If you’d like to hear more about Palace Resorts, I’d be happy to talk with you. I understand that a lot of Canadians aren’t ready to return to travelling just yet, but I am very glad that I went to Mexico for a week to dip my toes back into travel and learn all there is to know so I can assist my clients going forward.

I look forward to assisting you when the time is right!