Sunday, May 2, 2021

My international travel experience during the pandemic

I know most people are still hesitant to travel (especially traveling outside of the U.S). I am here today to share what it's like to travel internationlly during the pandemic. As someone who loves to go places, I’ve been itching to get back in the air and travel again. I found a good deal on spring break tickets to Los Cabos and my family went along with me =)
{Some footage from our trip using the GoPro 9}

To get to Los Cabos from Columbus, we had to flight to Houston then from Houston to Los Cabos. Same route for the return flights. Every single flight was full. We flew with Southwest. They are no longer blocking middle seats. Since hubby is an A-list preferred member, we got to board together. The boarding process was quick and seamless. It's mandatory that all passengers and employees to wear masks for the entire duration of the flight. The only exception is when actively eating or drinking. Southwest is serving a limited selection of non-alcoholic beverages and snacks on flights. You get 3 choices (Coke/Diet Coke, water and 7UP). All flights were on time and uneventful.

A negative test is NOT required for entering Mexico. However, a negative test is required for all passengers entering the U.S. The test needs to be taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Every country is different and nations might change their rules at any time. It's very important to do your research beforehand. I have to admit I was quite nervous traveling to Mexico during the pandemic but thankfully, everything went very smoothly and according to plan. Once you've landed at the Los Cabos airport, there was no social distancing whatsoever. Although, it's not as crowded. The taxi driver said all resorts/businesses currently operating at 25% - 35% capacity. All air travelers arriving in Mexico must fill out the health form before getting off the plane. All air travelers departing from Mexico are also required to fill out the same health form and provide proof of a laboratory-generated negative COVID-19 test result.

CaboSanLucas_SydneysFashionDiary
We booked a round-trip private ride just to be safe. All passengers have to use hand sanitizer before getting in the vehicle. Everyone must wear a mask for the entire duration of travel. Everyone has to step on a sanitizing foot mat before walking into the hotel. The staff will also sanitize your suitcases before bringing them up to your room. I have to say, they are taking COVID-19 seriously and doing all the appropriate measures. I also wanted to mention that hubby and I both had our first dose of the vaccine before heading to Mexico. I know it's not 100% foolproof but it did give us a little peace of mind.

During check in, you will be able to schedule your COVID test. Testing will be done on site and test results will be available on the same day. The test is a nose swab and the entire appointment takes about 10 minutes. The healthcare provider mentioned she tested 200 visitors the week prior and they were all tested negative.

Safety is our top priority when it comes to travel especially with the girls. We were out and about every day and I felt completely safe. We took the girls to downtown Cabo San Lucas one night for dinner and had no issues walking around at night. I highly recommend Lorenzillo's Lobster House. Keep in mind, you will be hounded by people trying to sell you something but they'll go away when you say no, thank you

All drop-offs and pick-ups were on time. A hotel’s concierge staff can help you fulfill a range of requests from calling a cab, making restaurant reservations and of course, booking tours/excursions. I was kind of nervous because I didn't know what to expect but thankfully, it turned out to be a pleasant trip. Use your common sense, listen to your gut instincts and you should be just fine. We had so much fun and I am definitely open to the idea of going back to Cabo in the future.

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