If you’re planning to travel to Mexico in 2021, you should be prepared to deal with a few unexpected challenges. Besides the usual weather and Visa requirements, you also must ensure you’re safe. Read on to learn more about how to prepare for your trip.
Nonessential travel to Mexico in 2021
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is still enforcing the travel ban issued by the Trump Administration through February 21, 2021. However, air travel is not affected by these restrictions. In addition, travelers on Visa Waivers will likely face additional scrutiny at the border.
The changes to the travel regulations will come in two stages. In November, the U.S. will allow fully-vaccinated travelers to enter the U.S. at land and ferry ports of entry. However, nonessential travelers will still need the COVID-19 vaccination to cross the border.
Travel restrictions from Mexico into the United States will be in effect on February 22, 2021. The new border restrictions apply to non-U.S. citizens and LPRs. People who travel for work, business, or pleasure must obtain certain documents, including COVID-19 vaccinations.
Drug-related violence has increased in Baja, California, and Tijuana recently. However, it is rare for tourists to be targeted. Several recent incidents of the shooting have affected tourists. There has also been an increase in drug-related violence in the south and east of the country. The government has been trying to protect major tourist areas like Acapulco from criminal gangs. Although this has not affected tourists in the past, crime is an issue in the country, and there is no guarantee that it will be absent when you visit.
The United States government advises Americans not to travel to Mexico during this time due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, travel to Mexico is still possible and safe if you have vaccinations. However, if you are unsure, contact the Sanidad Internacional health organization to confirm your status.
Weather in Mexico
Mexico City’s monthly average high and low temperatures will increase by a combined 4degF during February 2021. Low temperatures will rarely fall below 38degF and rarely exceed 53degF. High temperatures will range from 68degF on May 9 to 68degF on January 13. In February, the length of the day will increase by 27 minutes. The shortest day of the month is February 1 at 11 hours and 18 minutes. The longest day will be February 28 at 11 hours and 45 minutes.
February is an excellent time to visit if you’d like to enjoy the lively nightlife. The Yucatan Peninsula, Acapulco, and Puerto Vallarta are the hot spots. These places are filled with international visitors and plenty of activities. Be prepared to experience rain and high elevations, though.
February in Mexico is one of the warmest months, with temperatures around 80degF on the beaches. Humidity makes it feel even hotter. Although February is not Mexico’s rainy season, it is possible to encounter storms within a few hours of arriving. Therefore, it’s best to pack appropriate clothing and bring a change of clothes to keep yourself warm.
Winter months in Mexico City can reach freezing temperatures. The average rainfall during the winter is 550/650 mm (21/25 in). In the summer, the total rainfall can reach over 1,000 mm (40 in) during the Bosque de las Lomas. Bosque de las Lomas is in a mountain range with an elevation of 3,000 meters (9800 ft) above sea level.
The dry season lasts from November to April. From November, the temperature is cold, but the days are warm enough. It’s best to visit Mexico from November to March when humidity is low, and mosquitoes are minimal. Although the winter months are the busiest, summer will have lower crowds.
In February, temperatures in Cancun average 75degF/24degC. High temperatures will rarely rise above 85degF. Humidity will increase slightly, but it will not be hot. The ocean will be about 79degF/26degC, and visibility underwater will be excellent.
Visa requirements
The requirements for a visa to Mexico vary depending on your nationality. Citizens of some countries, such as Canada, India, and South Africa, must obtain a permit to visit Mexico. However, those with valid U.S., Canadian, or Schengen visas do not need Mexican access. Those dual citizens should ensure they carry valid passports for both their countries.
The Mexican government does not prohibit homosexual acts but does not recognize this as a norm in the country. As such, travelers who identify as LGBTQ2 may face discrimination. Gender non-conforming people and transgender people are also targeted by violence. The Mexican government recognizes dual citizenship but does not guarantee entry to other countries.
In February 2021, there are no mandatory vaccinations or quarantines for Mexico. U.S. citizens can submit proof of their Covid vaccines or Covid-19 test results when they fly to Mexico. But the requirements for travelers arriving on international flights are often subject to change at short notice. Those who wish to enter Mexico should be fully vaccinated against the common flu virus. They can cross the border without problems if they have the necessary vaccines.
Although travel to Mexico is generally relatively safe, the country is a popular destination for migrants, so travelers should be aware of any possible risks. It is advisable to visit the country by air rather than by land. As for security, make sure you follow all local laws. Also, keep an eye out for any demonstrations.
If you are traveling to Mexico from the U.S., it is essential to check the vaccination requirements before you leave. Children under 18 are exempt from the mandatory vaccination requirement for foreign nationals. However, some older children may not be vaccinated because of global variability in vaccination access.
You will need a valid travel visa to enter the country if traveling by air. You will also need a valid passport to travel by car. In addition, you must check with your local consulate whether they offer services for U.S. citizens. You should check with the nearest embassy or consulate to find out the status of your visa application.
Safety in Mexico
Mexico is a relatively safe country for tourists, but crime and violence can be a problem. Many foreign businesses hire private security, and travel advice is available from local authorities. Travelers should research their destination thoroughly before planning a trip. It is also recommended that they travel during daylight hours. They should stay alert to local media and inform trusted contacts of their travel plans. If they are the victim of a crime, they should report the incident to the nearest state prosecutor’s office. A formal complaint to the Mexican authorities is essential as the investigation cannot occur without a formal complaint filed in person.
The State Department has updated its Mexico travel alerts, labeling the country “A Failed State.” The travel warning states that Mexico is “unsafe in all areas,” including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and San Miguel de Allende. Drug-related violence is the most common cause of violent crime in Mexico. However, only a small number of tourists are affected by this crime.
Although Mexico is close to the ocean, it has several unsafe cities, especially those bordering the United States. This is because there are drug cartels that operate in these areas. In particular, Ciudad Juarez, located across from El Paso, is considered a dangerous city. The border cities with the United States, Tijuana, Reynosa, and Nuevo Laredo, are also considered hazardous. Several states have been declared unsafe for travelers, including Michoacán, Covid-19, and Sinaloa.
The Mexican government is working to protect significant tourist spots, such as Cancun, but violence is a continuing concern. Rival criminal gangs have clashed in Cancun in recent years. This has led to two deaths and many injuries. Another incident occurred in Playa del Carmen, where a lone gunman shot three tourists. The security forces are increasing patrols in the area, especially in the hotel zone. The police in Cancun also responded to reports of British tourists being sexually assaulted and physically assaulted.
Travelers to Mexico should know that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated the health information for the country. While there are still some areas in which you should avoid travel, Mexico is generally safe. Vaccination is not required on arrival, but you should complete a health questionnaire before vacationing. You can also undergo health screenings at the airports.