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To Travel Or Not To Travel To Playa del Carmen During The Pandemic— That Is The Question.

Juanita Rodriguez 10-31-2020

Travel During The Pandemic

Pandemic. Covid-19. New cases. Self-isolate. The headlines continue to cover the front pages of every news publication, while dominating radio and television station airtime. Despite being utterly fed up with this virus and the ongoing havoc it wreaks, the world must remain tuned in. Indeed, reviewing advisories and understanding the regulations of both your own country and those of your chosen destination are essential for safe travel.  

The Riviera Maya Is Ready To Welcome Visitors Back

Undoubtedly, Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a region that heavily relies upon tourism. Thus, businesses in the area were quick to implement new sanitary standards established by the World Travel & Tourism Council for health protection. Hotels and rental providers like Bric Vacation Rentals wasted no time in training staff and applying elevated safety measures. For this reason, the state of Quintana Roo has been able to advance to the “Yellow” level of the country’s Coronavirus Traffic Light Monitoring System. 

Riviera Maya, Mexico in Yellow Phase

If you’re wondering about things to do in Playa del Carmen in this “Yellow’ phase, there are still plenty of attractions that are open with social distancing in practice. Archaeological sites including Coba, Tulum, and Chichen Itza are open, but limited to 60% capacity, as are hotels and restaurants. While the adventure parks and beaches in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cozumel are also open, night clubs remain closed. Plus it’s important to note that masks are mandatory in all public places unless you’re sitting down to eat. 

No matter what city you’re in these days, similar rules apply. We’ve all become accustomed to hand sanitizers and staying 6 feet apart. Since no one wants to take a step back, tourist regions like Playa del Carmen are investing in further precautions. Extra safeguards including thermal scanner temperature readings are being enforced from the Cancun Airport to grocery stores. In addition, many businesses have sanitary mats to clean your shoes upon entering.

Thus far, the government of Mexico has decided not to have a mandated self-isolation period for those entering the country. However, if the thermal imaging cameras detect at the airport detect a fever, you may be required to quarantine or even sent back to your home country.

Before You Book Your Trip

Reserving your stay with Bric means that you can rest assured with our flexible cancellation or change policies. At this time, in order to limit physical contact, mid-stay cleaning services have been eliminated and distance check-ins are available upon request. Maintenance, housekeeping, and ambassador personnel remain vigilant in adapting rigorous prevention and safety measures. 

Though many airlines have nixed change fees, it’s important to speak directly to an airline customer service agent to fully understand their policies. While airlines such as Westjet may give you up to 24 months to use a travel credit, others may give only until the end of December or up to one year to travel. Moreover, there’s a good chance that you’ll be required to pay the difference in fares.

 

Tip: 

Before you go to the airport, call the airline or check flights online to confirm flight departures or to view changes.

 

Be sure to stock up on sanitary wipes, masks, and food for the flights as some air carriers have cancelled in-flight food and beverage service. For extra peace of mind, use disinfectant wipes to clean the seat and surfaces in your area. 

It’s always a good idea to call your insurance provider before you travel. Indeed confirming the details of the fine print has never been more crucial. Many travelers have enjoyed stress-free vacations in Mexico since the pandemic burst onto the world scene. In any case, double-check if there have been amendments to your policy that you should be aware of.

According to the Vancouver Sun, the government of Canada plans to order several million rapid tests by the end of this year, promising to make results available within 90 minutes. At Calgary Airport, international travelers will have the option to take an expedited COVID-19 test, which would replace the 14-day quarantine period Canadians face when returning from travel abroad. Last month American Airlines joined United Airlines, Hawaiin Airlines, and JetBlue Airways in offering pre-flight tests to international travelers.

Transportation Services 

The downtown Playa del Carmen ferries continue to offer regular roundtrip sailings to Cozumel. Be advised the two companies are currently alternaternating departures, rather than providing trips every hour on the hour. Taxis, ADO buses, and private van shuttles are operating at limited capacity.

Cancun to Playa del Carmen Airport Transfers

Playa del Carmen Attractions Open For Business

The majority of the eco and adventure parks, archaeological sites, and cenotes are operating at limited capacity. Booking online ahead of time is not only necessary, but can save you money. For more information on private tour options it’s helpful to get in touch with your designated Bric ambassador prior to your arrival. From secluded bays and emerald lagoons to underground cave expeditions and thrilling zipline circuits, the list for fun is endless. 

The south end of the city’s famed 5th Avenue is still in the remodeling phase. Despite ongoing construction, many artisan stores, the Quinta Alegria mall, as well as dozens of beach clubs and restaurants are happy to serve visitors. 

Lido Beach Club, Playa del Carmen

Photo By Lido Beach Club

 

More Fun Activities To Add To Your Riviera Maya Vacation Itinerary

 

  • Joya, Cirque du Soleil’s captivating theatrical show at Vidanta from Wednesdays to Saturdays

  • Private or small group cooking class at El Pueblito in Mayakoba or Coco’s Cooking In Playa

  • Explore local flavors during a walking food tour with Eating With Carmen

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling adventures to vibrant reefs or centuries-old cenotes

  • Golf at one of the area’s many top-notch courses

  • 3-D Museum of Wonders where you can become part of the artwork

  • Learn about the origin and different varieties of Mexico’s finest tequilas at the Tequila Academy

  • Relax in the sun and savor the Caribbean vibe at one of the city’s first-rate beach clubs

  • Sunrise standup paddle boarding session with Aloha Paddle Club

  • Spend a day on an enchanting island like nearby Cozumel or Holbox

  • Visit Izamal or Valladolid and discover what makes Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos so magical 

New Restaurants Emerging On The Playa del Carmen Scene

What virus? These brave restaurateurs aren’t going to let a pandemic squash their entrepreneurial dreams! Their aromas are enticing smoke signals, beckoning foodies from around the city. And the flavors? Well let’s just say they’re as delightful as a dip in the clear blue waters of the Caribbean. Offering divine dine in and take out menu options, you’ll want to add these top places to eat to your list next time you’re in Playa del Carmen.

Los Culiados Mariscos (Calle 8 between 15 & 20 Avenue)

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. this casual eatery near the Municipal Buildings in the city center specializes in exceptional seafood dishes. Try the tangy ceviches, superb oysters with the house salsa, shrimp cocktails, and much more. For those who prefer tasty dishes not from the sea, there is the Aguachile de Arrachera  (thin flank steak cured in a zesty sauce— mmm mmm good!)

Rack Smokehouse (CTM & 5th Avenue)

Rack Smokehouse, Playa del Carmen

To emerge from under the cloud of Covid and find success is not an easy feat, unless you’re serving arguably the most mouth-watering grill sensations in all of Playa! Rack Smokehouse has perfected Texas-style barbecue and patrons are loving every tender selection. Plus, enjoy rich comfort food sides like creamy slaw or baked Mac and Cheese. The stylish eatery is open everyday from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m, often showcasing amazing live musicians on the weekend.

Belleville (Along the 307 Federal Highway just south of Benito Juarez Avenue)

We have found amour in this charming coffee shop’s flakey pastries and sweet treats. From the eclairs to the croissants to the cheesecakes, you’ll discover baked goods bliss. Plus, you can grab a warm loaf of fresh-out-of-the-oven bread to create a scrumptious sandwich for your day at the beach. Open from 8:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m. daily (except Mondays), it’s a cheerful spot to enjoy a coffee and work your way through the menu of fine French indulgences.

Recent Guest Reviews

A guest from Monterrey, Mexico who stayed with us in October at The Elements wrote:

(Translated from Spanish)

My favorite apartments in PDC!

The only apartments with a beach. Currently there is no sargassum and the beach is very beautiful. The sea is super clean and very comfortable to get into.
In the “beach club”  there are massages at a super good price and delicious prepared drinks  also at reasonable prices. The apartments are spacious and have excellent customer service from Bric, Miguel Hernández gave us the service and everything was excellent. The pool is salt water and always in excellent condition. In my opinion the salty pool is the best !!

Here’s what Cristina, who stayed at Casa Paraíso wrote:

Kristin’s space is beautiful, there is a lot of nature and tranquility around. The security of Playacar is irreplaceable and the beach is beautiful, both Kristin and Ivonne are friendly and polite hosts and very present for any question, without a doubt and excellent place to stay.


In the end, the decision to travel is a personal one. If  you’ve considered all of the factors and some well-deserved beach time is what you need, we’re happy to help turn that vacation dream to reality.

Our team is available anytime at 1(800) 519-2486 / +52 1(984) 179-1816 / reservation@bricrental.com to answer any questions or concerns you may have. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you again soon!