Travelling with kids to Mexico during Covid-19
A few days before we left there were so many announcements from our government telling us “not to leave the country and to cancel all planned trips.” But, we did otherwise.
Not here for a hot debate or to hear we’re crazy for doing so, but just want to share some truths about our experience so far.
At a time when we were supposed to stay home and be safe, we decided to pack our bags and head south to Mexico to do the same thing. We’ve been here for just about a week and I knew upon arrival that we had made a great decision.
Day of travel during Covid-19
Before we left for our trip I had some anxieties about travelling, as most parents do when flying with their kids. Not only were we about to take 2 airplanes for a total duration of 6 hours with 3 kids, but this time we knew it would be different. Our temperatures would be checked before SECURITY, and if for SOME reason, somebody had a temperature, we would be denied boarding.
Another new thing for us was having to wear masks for the duration of our trip. As a family who doesn’t go out often, we rarely wear masks, so I couldn’t imagine how the kids would do for 6 hours straight.
But, we sucked it up as the price to pay to get to the sunshine and beautiful Mexican culture.
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We got through security very quickly. There were less travellers than normal (still quite a few), and all of our temps were normal. Besides having to keep our masks on, things were a breeze.
Snacks are key when flying with kids
Once on the airplane (which was almost full), we were told we had to keep our masks on unless eating, so out came the snacks. SNACKS are always key, and this time it really paid off. Our 6 year old HATES wearing a mask, so we told her just to keep eating the entire trip. No problemo. Anytime a flight attendant passed by our kids would pick up their cookies or water.
The flight attendants were not too worried, and bugged me more than anyone else since my mask always falls off my nose.
Upon arrival to Puerto Vallarta
Arriving to Mexico, nothing really changed. They didn’t even take our temperatures. We filled out the regular forms that are always mandatory for entry to Mexico, and picked up our luggage and headed to our condo. We actually signed up for a timeshare presentation and took the free transportation and adventure trip offered in return.
Our driver explained the current situation of Puerto Vallarta. We knew before arrival that we were entering PV during a “boton rojo” which essentially is a state of emergency and with strict covid-restrictions. This has been happening on a monthly basis for the past few months. Some of the restrictions include:
Schools are closed until further notice
Only one adult can enter the grocery stores (no one permitted over 59 or kids ever permitted)
Gyms are closed
Bars and clubs are closed
Restaurants are at 50% capacity and close at 10pm
Businesses that can be moved online will remain that way
If you’re over 60, stay home
Extra-curricular activities/establishments are closed
religious activities are closed
Of all of those restrictions, the ones that most affected us are the grocery store limitations and the shut downs of the gyms. But we have been able to make do. There are grocery-delivery services, and we can also take turns doing the shopping. We also brought lots of body-weight workout equipment and even found a gym across state lines that is open (a 15 minute drive to cross). We didn’t come here to party, but instead to do life just as we always do.
Currently
Besides closures and mask policies, life has been great so far. We are just doing what we do at home, but with warmer weather, and more cultural diversity. We plan to stay a few months so we haven’t started worrying about what things will look like when we go back. Essentially, life here right now is a lot like what summer looked like in Canada. We still wear masks, keep our distance, and are kind to others. We’re hoping that’s what it looks like in a few months, but will take it as it comes! We’ve ran into a few people who have extended their stays here in hopes that things will change at home, and we will play the same game.
The biggest difference between here and home, is the spirits of the people around. Everyone is happy (as one can be during a pandemic), and non-judgemental. They don’t worry about if your nose is covered, but instead if they will be able to feed their families each day. They continue to live life at a slower pace, are happy to be living in a beautiful spot, and are just grateful everyday for what they have (even if it is very little). They need and want business and tourism, and money to feed their families. They also want for less.
Next post…
This lack of tourism has affected the Mexican people more than any lack of work or covid restriction can affect a Canadian back home. Stay tuned for future posts which will touch more on this, and the realities of living in Mexico during a pandemic.
Also connect with me on instagram if you have any questions and to follow along on our journey!
