Quintana Roo is easing some of its COVID-19 restrictions

Quintana Roo in Mexico, home to popular spring break destinations like Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, has loosened its COVID-19 restrictions. Mexico uses a four-color epidemiological traffic light system that ranges from red to green, and the state has just moved from orange to yellow - the second least restrictive scenario.

This represents more opportunities for the gradual reactivation of activities, with beaches and public parks being able to operate at 60% capacity - up from 30% during the orange phase. Hotels, restaurants, historic sites, theaters, cinemas, theme parks, golf courses and tourist services are now open at 60% capacity. Gymnasiums and sports clubs are permitted to operate at 70% in outdoor areas, and 50% in closed spaces.

A boardwalk extends into beautiful turquoise water. — The Mexican state of Quintana Roo is loosening restrictions © Peicong Liu / 500px

Cancún is a popular spring break destination, due to its aquamarine Caribbean waters and powdery white-sand beaches. While its land border with the US remains closed, aside for essential travel reasons, Mexico is open to travelers - though the CDC currently advises against all but essential travel to Mexico. Regions in the US that are popular for spring break travel, such as Florida, are also preparing for the traditionally busy travel period and how travel might impact the spread of COVID-19.

Travelers who go to Mexico are required to complete a health declaration form and scan the QR code it generates on arrival, but are not required to provide a negative PCR test or quarantine on arrival. However, they will need to be tested before returning to the US. While in Mexico, masks must be worn on beaches and in hotels, restaurants and shops. Up-to-date information on the reopening of Quintana Roo is available on its website here.