Governor Says Cancun Tourist Areas Will Be Closely Monitored To Help Slow Infections

Last Updated 3 years ago

Surveillance of Area Will Mostly Focus On Sanitary Habits And Following Of Procedures

The Governor of Quintana Roo has said that the major tourist areas in the state will be monitored more heavily over the coming weeks. The news comes as Cancun and other destinations are in their first week of the ‘orange’ alert designation.

Cancun, as well as the greater Quintana Roo region, was officially moved into the orange designation on Mexico’s epidemiological traffic light system this week. In theory, this means that all hotels, restaurants, tourist destinations, and other establishments are running at several reduced capacities.

The Governor warned that on the current trajectory, the red light was extremely likely and that steps must be taken to ensure that does not happen. He said, “We are facing a very important moment, what we do will be reflected in what will happen in the coming weeks”.

To help combat this, agents from other states have apparently been brought in to help with the monitoring of local establishments in regards to how they are adhering to the new restrictions. According to the statement made on the governor’s Twitter and the state announcements page, essential services, in particular, will be focussed on. 

Markets, malls, and other stores that would not close even in the unfortunate instance of a red light are being encouraged to enforce social distancing, temperature checks, mask-wearing, and regular sanitization. Where possible, they are also being asked to minimize the number of customers although they do not have an official restriction in this regard.

Hotels, restaurants, and other businesses are supposed to be running at 50% capacity under the current rules, although many establishments have managed to be granted permission to allow more than the typically designated percentage. It is unclear as to the specifications needed to be allowed this concession, but many have been granted the right.

Larger-scale events are also still taking place in the region. Hootiefest: The Big Splash, a music festival centered around the band Hootie and the Blowfish, is currently taking place in Cancun. The festival had drawn criticism from some ticket holders who voiced frustration at the refund policy. With infection rates rising, many felt uncomfortable making the trip but were told no refunds would be possible unless the event was canceled. Photos on Twitter from the event showed hundreds of fans crowded together with no masks or social distancing.

It is unclear if the establishments being monitored will face any repercussions if the monitoring process unveils any blatant disregard for the rules. At present, tourist numbers appear to be steady with no suggestion that the rules are having a significant impact on traveler decisions, so the business opportunities are most definitely still there. 

The governor had previously announced road closures in the major tourist areas which would start at around 8 PM with general funneling, and then full closure between 1 AM and 5 AM. State officials are set to be distributing masks in public places and encouraging locals and tourists alike to work together and respect the basic sanitary measures.

The general direction appears to be working towards societal respect for the measures in place as opposed to strict enforcement of the restrictions. With some national outlets suggesting the peak may be near in the country, Cancun will be hoping the current trajectory slows in time to avoid the red light designation. At that point, if rules are followed by businesses, the economy would certainly feel the negative effects.

Travelers intending to visit Cancun should keep on top of all restrictions and rules in place before departure. Contact acclamation prior to arrival to ensure no problems arise.

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