06/02/2021
I've started and stopped this post several times, as I couldn't quite find the words I needed to express my feelings about travel right now and about Mexico-a destination I love to sell and love to visit even more. Luckily, a new friend and fellow agent, Jennifer Foreman Kellum posted these words below and gave me permission to steal. I love Mexico and am happy to book your next vacation there-either now or when you're ready and comfortable to travel. If you feel differently, please keep scrolling.
"Buenos Dias! only today it’s from Michigan where were are awaiting a polar vortex, and not sunny Mexico. Before I get to returning emails and phone calls, I wanted to say a few things about my experience and thank a few people who are truly gems in this industry.
I’ve had many texts and Facebook messages asking me if it’s safe to travel to Mexico. I would answer with this: Yes!
Is it safe to travel there during Covid? Yes!
I’m telling you. Every single place I’ve visited since Covid has started, has had better safety protocols than what I see in my day to day life here. Masks are required to fly, required in airports and on transfers, luggage and shoes are sanitized, temperatures are taken, contact is limited, and since most activities happen outside, social distancing happens naturally. And when it can’t, masks are required. There are places that are more relaxed than others, in which case, I will give honest feedback. But traveling doesn’t put you more at risk. Being irresponsible does. We can travel safely if we think and do things a bit differently.
But if you trust your travel advisor, stick to the properties we suggest, let us arrange your safe transfers and excursions, then yes, you are safe. And Mexico is no exception. Not only am I sending you to reputable places, but you are also being taken care of by my travel partners and my friends. I know I am safe when I go, but it took building those relationships and learning more about the area to feel that way.
Lori Swinderman , THANK YOU for your hospitality, wealth of knowledge, and your friendship. What you are doing for travel advisors, for the tourism industry in Mexico, and for the people you now call neighbors—is amazing. I’m proud to know you. If you’re a travel advisor, I HIGHLY encourage you to check out Mexico Famtrips. You can thank me later.
Daniel Fives , you said something that I’m holding onto as we navigate the coming months. “We forget the time of life we are living in right now. We forget to be empathetic. We tend to only think about ourselves.” It’s so easy to get wrapped up in how this has affected ME and MY business that I tend to forget how it has affected others. Thank you for your hospitality this week, but more importantly, your inspiration. You get what this year has done to all of us. Also, thank you, and for making sure our every need was met. I know my clients will be well taken care of between the three of you.
Pablo Enriquez Rsm Lomas , thank you for spending the day with us and for seeing the value in our work. I love travel partners who love us back and truly invest in us. See you soon, my friend!
It’s one thing to sell Mexico. Or the Caribbean. But it’s another to invest in it. To us, travel seems frivolous right now. But to many islands and countries, travel is what keeps an economy afloat. It’s what feeds families. There are no government programs and bailouts like we have here. So I am committed to these people—my friends—to make sure their businesses thrive and our industry survives. Likewise, I’m just as committed to keeping my friends, family, and clients safe and healthy.
Travel has never been more fluid and complex than it is right now. Trust the people who do this every single day and help me invest in the people and places I’ve grown to love. These people I’ve been so fortunate to meet along the way, make this journey even sweeter. This group of agents were just amazing! Miss you all already. Till the next trip, stay safe and travel often ♥️🇲🇽✈🌎😉"
