Tales from a FAM Trip: Taking Safety Seriously in Cancun

In August 2020, ALG Vacations hosted a few lucky travel advisors on familiarization (FAM) trips to Cancun to share what the new world of travel looks like. Here is the story of Deb Bostic, CTC and travel advisor at Elite Travel Concierge, LLC. Read, share and get inspired to travel again!

How was your airport experience in-destination?

My overall airport experience in Cancun was exceptional.

There is a new Health Screening Questionnaire. The health forms need to be filled out prior to arrival. This is done online or by scanning a bar code after you get off the plane. There are signs and counters in the hallway with the code. Questions are name, date of birth, phone and questions asking if you have been around anyone with COVID, if so when, where have you been in the last 14 days, (city, state, event). It asks if you have had a fever, cough, headache. Once you submit it, you will get a bar code. I took a screenshot and pulled it up each time I was asked for it.

My temperature was taken upon arrival and departure in Cancun and I was asked for verification of the Health Screening Questionnaire which you fill out for both arrival and departure, and the Mexico Tourist Card. Going through this process was seamless.

Evidently none of the rental car or taxi drivers were laid off because the hallway you walk through to go outside was packed and they tried hard to get me to stop and talk to them! It’s important clients know to keep walking and to look for the Amstar rep outside.

How was your transfer experience in-destination?

Once outside the airport, the Amstar rep was easy to spot with their flowered shirts. They were very friendly and welcoming. The driver sanitized my luggage prior to putting it in the shuttle and gave me hand sanitizer once on board. The vehicle was clean with air conditioning making for a very comfortable ride and also provided free Wi-Fi. Working with Amstar gives me confidence knowing that my clients will arrive in Mexico and be greeted by a reputable company who will make them feel safe and secure as they start their vacation.

What resorts did you visit?

Now Sapphire Riviera, Now Jade Riviera, El Dorado Royale and Casitas, Royalton Riviera Cancun, Iberostar Cancun/Coral Level, Fiesta Americana Condesa, Dreams Vista Cancun, Riu Dunamar, Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres and TRS Coral Hotel, Barcelo Maya Riviera and Palace, Breathless Riviera Cancun.

What is your main takeaway in regards to safety and health from visiting the resort(s)?

The resorts take safety very seriously. Most took our temperatures upon arrival and all provided hand sanitizer and mats to wash our shoes prior to entering the property. They have put many protocols in place to ensure the health of guests. Some of those include using outside companies to come in after the maid cleans to sanitize the room, many seal the door with a sticker so you know this has been done. Most leave the room empty for at least 24 hours before new guests arrive. Bath amenities are sealed in plastic bags, including the remote control. Even the coffee maker, ice bucket and glasses are in plastic bags. Buffets are not self-serve but still available as the staff will put the food on your plates for you. You are asked to step on mats when you enter restaurants to clean your feet and some take your temperature prior to entering. The well-being of the guests are the resorts’ utmost concern and the staff are doing their part to ensure this.

What do you think is the most important thing to share with travelers about your experience?

I felt very safe, healthy and comfortable my entire stay. Although the experience was different, it was still completely enjoyable. Realizing the resorts’ protocols can change day by day is helpful, as the properties base their capacity and practices according to the color code status of Mexico. If clients go into their vacation with flexibility and the understanding that there is a new all-inclusive experience since COVID, they can still have an unforgettable vacation full of wonderful memories.

Would you visit Mexico again this year?

I would visit Mexico again next week!!!

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Disclaimer: The views, information and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Compass and VAX VacationAccess.