Let’s go back to the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. After being battered by all sorts of terrible twists and turns, the travel industry was struggling to maintain a pulse while dealing with constantly changing rules and regulations, including the need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before re-entering the U.S. I remember thinking at the time, “How in the world is this going to work?”
Yet, within days — if not hours — of that announcement, resorts in Mexico were already sending out press releases assuring customers that they would be able to take a COVID-19 test on-site and, if the test came back positive, the hotel would allow the traveler to stay and quarantine. In the weeks that followed, properties throughout Mexico created a nearly seamless process whereby travelers could take much-needed vacations and still have the peace of mind knowing that they would be taken care of.
Looking back now, that was a bold action that certainly saved millions of dollars in business for travel advisors. Mexico deserves a lot of credit for constantly adapting and overcoming hurdles throughout the pandemic. The country set itself apart as an oasis where people could go to be pampered and feel comforted during the darkest days of 2020 and 2021.
Our most recent cover story examines the next steps for Mexico’s tourism industry. Travel south of the border continues to evolve — adjusting for the realities of an ongoing pandemic, while always looking to improve the visitor experience. Advisors should be aware of the latest trends and product offerings in the country, as well as the continued growth of technology that is making the destination safer and more accessible.
It is fitting that our first cover story of the new year highlights Mexico. Today, more than ever before, the country leads the way in tourism from the U.S. And, as history has shown us, we are in very good hands.
