Travels with Bob

Last week I boarded a plane for a short flight to Cancun to attend a travel “Mastermind” meeting at a luxury resort on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. It was my first venture outside the United States in more than a year and it was exhilarating!

Despite the health and safety protocols in place and the fact that I was attending wall-to-wall meetings for 3-1/2 days, it still felt like a vacation. My sojourn also reminded me that leisure travel is beginning to reopen in a post-pandemic world.

While most cruise ships remain halted until at least mid-year, a growing number of countries are reopening to American travelers. Yet, before making any reservations to faraway places, it’s vital to understand the entry requirements and protocols which remain a moving target for many destinations ― even if you have received COVID vaccine and are ready to travel again.

Top-rated hotels are your best bet today for a healthy getaway with acceptable protocols to ensure an enjoyable vacation experience.

For example, the Grand Moon Palace, which currently operates at 30 percent of capacity, was the site of my meeting. The hotel provided private airport transfers, touchless check-in and unsurpassed cleaning (guests must step on a shoe sanitizing mat before entering). Masks were required in all indoor public areas except when dining.

Furthermore, the hotel provided complimentary COVID testing within 72 hours of my return to in the United States to comply to American entrance regulations. I was amazed, however, that U.S. immigration officials didn’t bother to check such documentation.

The Grand Moon Palace may not be the right fit for everyone, but most people will find this all-inclusive resort to be a perfect destination for your first trip abroad when you venture out again.