*Please note the majority of the resorts in the region require a minimum 3-7 nights stay to qualify for the free Antigen tests*, we will confirm this with you when you make an inquiry with us to book the resort*.
To date, PCR tests are NOT FREE at any of the resorts.
If you do specifically require a PCR test you will have to pay…And as you will soon see some hotels are offering PCR tests cheaper than others. I have also detailed PCR prices in this blog for your reference.*
Without further ado…
Did you know some of the stand-out resorts in Mexico are offering FREE COVID antigen tests?
With a large part of our traffic and clients coming from the USA you’re going to need either a negative COVID test before you return home.
Luckily, if you are from the USA lots of the resorts are offering the ANTIGEN test for free.
Our team can:
- help you pick the best resort for you and your group
- help you get a great deal
-
explain how to get your covid test organized with your resort when you book with us
- help you understand what happens if you test positive
So, if you’re ready to take the stress out of travelling from start to finish you’ve come to the right place.
Top 10 Resorts Offering FREE COVID Tests:
*Please note you do have to be staying at the hotels listed to be eligible for testing.
I’d just like to start by quickly saying…
You are my kind of person! You know why? 🙂
Because you’re not letting a damn COVID test stop your adventures.
You’re awesome. That is all.
Pssst… please don’t skip the details on each hotel as they all play by different rules, have different policy ending dates, etc…
I suspect all hotels to offer COVID testing to their services in coming days/weeks but some of them are charging anywhere between 33-250 USD for the pleasure *eye roll*.
To save you some dollar (in these already very weird and trying times) the hotels I’ve listed here in this blog are offering the Antigen test at no extra cost.
1. Grupo Xcaret…Hotel Xcaret
- Hotel Xcaret | Kid-Friendly | Riviera Maya | ★★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$$
Grupo Xcaret will be offering the Antigen tests for FREE, at no cost to its guests.
PCR tests will be available at an additional cost of $140 USD (paid directly at the doctors).
What Happens if I Test Positive At Xcaret Resorts?
In the event that a guest tests positive for COVID-19, the Xcaret hotels will offer accommodation coverage at no cost for 14-days isolation of the affected person and a companion in the same room (if both test positive).
These measures will be effective until March 31, 2021.
After this date, the hotel will be reviewing the protocol based on world updates.
So, if you are planning to travel after this date please check the up-to-date information (I will keep this blog updated accordingly).
Useful Xcaret Information:
Get a feel for Xcaret hotels and attractions here…
- Read my honest review of Hotel Xcaret here.
- Our top tips for Xcaret Park
- Tours with the best COVID safety standards
Call us on our toll-free number +1 888-537-9797 to get the best deal and start planning your trip.
Or make a hotel inquiry with us today at customercare@playadelcarmen.com to get your quote.
2. Grand Palladium Kantenah
Kid-Friendly | Riviera Maya | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
Grand Palladium is proud to extend its Stay Safe Plus FREE Health Insurance™ and its White Book Health & Safety Protocols™.
In response to the need of the market to continue supporting the traveller during these trying times, Grand Palladium is “pleased to announce the inclusion of COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost (until April 4th, 2021) to guests travelling to the U.S., as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations on January 26, 2021.”
On-site property testing will be administered by certified labs and hospitals in partnership with their in-house Doctors committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers staying at any of their destinations in Mexico.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
“Guests should contact the Front Desk at each resort upon arrival to schedule testing, which is required to be done 3 days prior to the date of departure.”
What Happens if I Test Positive At Grand Palladium?
Grand Palladium is yet to release details about this. I will update you when I know more.
Please understand as a local travel agency in Playa del Carmen we are one of the first people to hear of any changes on the ground and the information is coming in thick and fast in alignment with the new rules and regulation.
Useful Grand Palladium Information:
Get a feel for the hotel and the new protocols here…
- My honest review of Grand Palladium Kantenah weddings
- Resorts with best COVID safety standards
- How to plan your destination wedding during COVID
3. Dreams Tulum
Kid-Friendly | Tulum | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
From 1/26/21- 3/31/21 as part of the hotels CleanComplete program, AMResorts® is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., and as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers, across the majority of our destinations*.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
“Guests should contact the concierge at each resort upon arrival to schedule departure testing.”
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CDC TESTING REQUIREMENTS (please read):
- According to the CDC, air passengers entering the U.S. will be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) conducted within 3 days before their flight departs to the U.S.
- Documentation should be for a viral test (NAAT or antigen) as approved or authorized by the relevant national authority.
- Test results must state: Negative, SARS-CoV2 RNA Not Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Not Detected, or COVID-19 Not Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Documentation may be paper or electronic copy and must include the name and contact information for the laboratory or healthcare personnel who performed the test.
- Test results may be required to be shown again upon landing
- Alternatively, passengers may provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 with documentation of test results conducted during the 3 months preceding the flight’s departure from a foreign country.
- Test results must state: Positive, SARS-CoV2 RNA Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detected or COVID-19 Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Additionally, a letter from a licensed health professional stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (called Documentation of Recovery) is required.
- Finally, all airline passengers will be required to present a simple CDC attestation form to the airline for collection prior to boarding.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Dreams Tulum?
If a guest receives a positive test while on this property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This program is valid for travel through March 31, 2021
Useful Information for Dreams Tulum:
Get a feel for the hotel and what it has to offer…
- My Honest Review of Dreams Tulum Weddings
- 10 Sublime Swim-Up Suites For a More Private Pool Experience
4. Mahekal Beachfront Resort & Spa
Kids Welcome but Adult-Only vibe | Playa del Carmen | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
“On January 12, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded the requirement for a negative COVID-19 test to all air passengers entering the United States. This requirement will go into effect on January 26, 2021.”
Mahekal Beach Resort has implemented a series of measures in support of current and future guests. These consist of:
The inclusion of COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021, for guests with a three (3) night stay or longer, regardless of booking source.
This covers all guests per room, over the age of two (2) years.
For stays of less than three (3) nights, Mahekal Beach Resort can still assist with the coordination of testing, however, the cost of the tests, plus applicable 16% tax, would be the guest’s responsibility.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers.
Test results should be received within 24 hours in written format as required by the CDC. Guests should contact the front desk upon arrival to schedule departure testing.
For guests travelling to countries that do not accept the antigen test and require PCR testing, the front desk will help coordinate and facilitate testing, at the guest’s cost.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Mahekal Resort?
If a guest receives a positive test while on the property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property, room only, will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This policy is valid for travel through March 31, 2021.**
Specialized action protocols in the event of case detection to ensure the well-being of the affected person and the other guests, including those within the travel party.
In the event of a positive test, and the inability to travel, Mahekal Beach Resort will provide guest and one (1) travel companion, a guest room in an isolation area of the resort.
Guest will be responsible for meals and beverages; to be delivered contactless.
Guest will also be responsible for 50% of the daily resort fee.
Rooms for additional travel companions, if needed, will be offered at a discounted rate.
This policy is currently in effect until March 31, 2021; for arrivals on or before that date, for actualized stays of 3 nights or more on the initial reservation.
Useful Information for Mahekal Resort Stays:
We included this hotel in our spring break guide, find out why here…
5. Secrets Akumal
Adult-Only | Akumal | ★★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
From 1/26/21- 3/31/21 as part of the hotels CleanComplete program, AMResorts® is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., and as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers, across the majority of our destinations*.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
Guests should contact the concierge at each resort upon arrival to schedule departure testing.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CDC TESTING REQUIREMENTS (please read):
- According to the CDC, air passengers entering the U.S. will be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) conducted within 3 days before their flight departs to the U.S.
- Documentation should be for a viral test (NAAT or antigen) as approved or authorized by the relevant national authority.
- Test results must state: Negative, SARS-CoV2 RNA Not Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Not Detected, or COVID-19 Not Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Documentation may be paper or electronic copy and must include the name and contact information for the laboratory or healthcare personnel who performed the test.
- Test results may be required to be shown again upon landing
- Alternatively, passengers may provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 with documentation of test results conducted during the 3 months preceding the flight’s departure from a foreign country.
- Test results must state: Positive, SARS-CoV2 RNA Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detected or COVID-19 Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Additionally, a letter from a licensed health professional stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (called Documentation of Recovery) is required.
- Finally, all airline passengers will be required to present a simple CDC attestation form to the airline for collection prior to boarding.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Secrets Akumal?
If a guest receives a positive test while on the property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This program is valid for travel through March 31, 2021
Useful Information for Secrets Akumal Stays:
Get a feel for the hotel and the area…
6. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
Adult-Only | Half-Way Between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos| ★★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
From 1/26/21- 3/31/21 as part of the hotels CleanComplete program, AMResorts® is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., and as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers, across the majority of our destinations*.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
Guests should contact the concierge at each resort upon arrival to schedule departure testing.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CDC TESTING REQUIREMENTS (please read):
- According to the CDC, air passengers entering the U.S. will be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) conducted within 3 days before their flight departs to the U.S.
- Documentation should be for a viral test (NAAT or antigen) as approved or authorized by the relevant national authority.
- Test results must state: Negative, SARS-CoV2 RNA Not Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Not Detected, or COVID-19 Not Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Documentation may be paper or electronic copy and must include the name and contact information for the laboratory or healthcare personnel who performed the test.
- Test results may be required to be shown again upon landing
- Alternatively, passengers may provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 with documentation of test results conducted during the 3 months preceding the flight’s departure from a foreign country.
- Test results must state: Positive, SARS-CoV2 RNA Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detected or COVID-19 Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Additionally, a letter from a licensed health professional stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (called Documentation of Recovery) is required.
- Finally, all airline passengers will be required to present a simple CDC attestation form to the airline for collection prior to boarding.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Secrets Maroma?
If a guest receives a positive test while on the property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This program is valid for travel through March 31, 2021
Useful Information for Secrets Maroma Stays:
Get a feel for the hotel…
7. TRS Yucatan
Adult-Only | Akumal| ★★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
Grand Palladium is proud to extend its Stay Safe Plus FREE Health Insurance™ and its White Book Health & Safety Protocols™.
In response to the need of the market to continue supporting the traveller during these trying times, Grand Palladium is “pleased to announce the inclusion of COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost (until April 4th, 2021) to guests travelling to the U.S., as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations on January 26, 2021.”
“On-site property testing will be administered by certified labs and hospitals in partnership with their in-house Doctors committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers staying at any of their destinations in Mexico. Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.”
Guests should contact the Front Desk at each resort upon arrival to schedule testing, which is required to be done 3 days prior to the date of departure.
What Happens if I Test Positive At TRS Yucatan?
Grand Palladium is yet to release details about this. I will update you when I know more.
Please understand as a local travel agency in Playa del Carmen we are one of the first people to hear of any changes on the ground and the information is coming in thick and fast in alignment with the new rules and regulation.
The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences
Adults-Only | Downtown Playa del Carmen | ★★★★| NOT all-inclusive | $$
Stay 4 nights or more, and your COVID-19 Antigen test is on the hotel.
The Fives are committed to your safety at The Fives Hotels and Residences.
“In order to assist with preventing the spread of COVID-19 and to reduce the risk of exposure, we are providing on-site testing (PCR & Antigen), and strengthening our cleanliness protocols and health initiatives.”
“Additionally, if you stay 4 nights or more at any of the resorts, your government-mandated pre-departure Antigen test is on us.”
Aligned with expert protocols and led by an independent authorized laboratory, the hotel will be facilitating COVID-19 tests in accordance with the requirements of each country, directly at the resort, 48 hours prior to departure.
“To prioritize and arrange the testing for our guests, The Fives Hotels and Residences is deploying new standard operating procedures.”
On-site PCR or Antigen testing will be available at a subsidized cost.
- PCR Test Cost: USD 80.00 per person.
- Antigen Test Cost: USD 30.00 per person
Reservations for testing will be made at check-in for no less than 48 hours prior to departure.
What Happens if I Test Positive At The Fives?
They are yet to release information on this and I will update this section of the blog as soon as I know more.
Useful Information on The Fives Hotel and Residences:
We included this hotel as part of our wedding collection due to its stunning sky roof terrace, check it out and learn more about the hotel here…
9. Dreams Puerto Aventuras
Kid-Friendly | Puerto Aventuras | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
From 1/26/21- 3/31/21 as part of the hotels CleanComplete program, AMResorts® is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., and as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers, across the majority of our destinations*.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
Guests should contact the concierge at each resort upon arrival to schedule departure testing.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CDC TESTING REQUIREMENTS (please read):
- According to the CDC, air passengers entering the U.S. will be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) conducted within 3 days before their flight departs to the U.S.
- Documentation should be for a viral test (NAAT or antigen) as approved or authorized by the relevant national authority.
- Test results must state: Negative, SARS-CoV2 RNA Not Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Not Detected, or COVID-19 Not Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Documentation may be paper or electronic copy and must include the name and contact information for the laboratory or healthcare personnel who performed the test.
- Test results may be required to be shown again upon landing
- Alternatively, passengers may provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 with documentation of test results conducted during the 3 months preceding the flight’s departure from a foreign country.
- Test results must state: Positive, SARS-CoV2 RNA Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detected or COVID-19 Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Additionally, a letter from a licensed health professional stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (called Documentation of Recovery) is required.
- Finally, all airline passengers will be required to present a simple CDC attestation form to the airline for collection prior to boarding.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Dreams Puerto Aventuras?
If a guest receives a positive test while on the property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This program is valid for travel through March 31, 2021
Useful Information for Dreams Puerto Aventuras:
Get a feel for the quiet area of Puerto Aventuras here…
10. Panama Jack & The Hilton Playa del Carmen
Kid-Friendly & Adults Only | Playa del Carmen & Cancun | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
Playa Hotels & Resorts announces complimentary on-property Antigen testing beginning January 22, 2021, through April 30, 2021.
- Unless otherwise directed by local government/health officials
- Pending final approvals for our Jamaica resorts
- Based on 3-Night Stay in Mexico and the Dominican Republic
- Based on 5-Night Stay in Jamaica
- $49 per Antigen test for stays less than 5-Nights in Jamaica resorts
- Concessions for large groups/weddings business staying less than 5-nights
- Results Guarantee or we give you a room while you wait
- Up to 50% discount from the best available rate for guests that test positive and remain quarantined on the property (as per the distressed rates provided earlier)
- Negotiated discounts for PCR tests conducted on-property
Read The Hilton Playa del Carmen Clean Stay Promise here.
Disclaimer:
- Complimentary testing only applies to COVID-19 antigen testing on-property for guests travelling to the United States, and as accepted per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention travel regulations that take effect on January 26, 2021.
- Concessions to the minimum stay requirements for large groups/weddings are at the discretion of Playa Hotels & Resorts.
- Results Guarantee applies to guests that perform an antigen test on-property three days prior to departure and, through no fault of their own, do not receive the results prior to departure. In this case, Playa Hotels & Resorts will provide a complimentary room for the time period between the original departure date and the earliest possible departure date after results are received.
- Results Guarantee only applies to the cost of a standard-category room under the all-inclusive plan and do not include any additional on-property spend or incidental charges such as spa services or private cabanas.
What Happens If I Test Positive Playa Resorts?
- 50% discount for guests that test positive and remain on property apply for up to fourteen (14) days only.
Useful Information for Playa Resort Stays:
We included Panama Jack in this blog as it is a great affordable option for families.
Additional Resources You Will Find Useful:
We understand that some of you may have anxiety travelling during COVID. I’m here to help you with that by providing you with all the facts.
Learn more here:
- Tours with the best COVID safety standards
- Resorts with the best COVID safety standards
- Top tips for planning your wedding during COVID
- COVID FAQ how to vacation safely
- COVID live updates
Want The Best Rates At These Resorts?
If you’re ready to plan your vacation, and you want the best deal plus zero stress give us a call on our toll-free number +1 888-537-9797
Or
Alternatively, contact us via email at customercare@playadelcarmen.com
We will make sure you’re looked after and enjoy some worry-free fun in the sun. 🙂
If you’ve got any questions you know what to do 😉 … feel free to leave them in the comments section for me below and I will get back to you ASAP.
Thanks for reading! I hope you found it useful.
Comments (41)
Alexandrasays:
January 20, 2021 at 2:35 pmHello,
We would like to book to the Iberostar Tuscan on February.
Do you know if we can be tested in the hotel for coming back to the USA and what happened if we are positive?
Thank you for your help
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 21, 2021 at 9:15 amHey Alexandra, I will pass you on directly to our travel team who can reach out to Iberostar to get the best deal possible for you and organize your COVID testing. If you want to contact us immediately please call us on our toll-free number +1 888-537-9797. 🙂 We look forward to helping you book a worry-free vacation in the sun.
Aldosays:
January 20, 2021 at 4:08 pmDo you have to stay at these hotels in order to get the COVID test?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 21, 2021 at 9:10 amHey Aldo, yes you do.
Jorgesays:
January 22, 2021 at 1:14 pmhey Sarah, in case of a positive result would the resort cover meals as well during those 14 days?Is this also included in the accommodation coverage? I am referring to Hotel Xcaret to be more specific. And if it does, would it cover the person traveling with you as well even if that person does not test positive? I am traveling with my wife and a 4 years old kid, from Feb 21-28. thanks in advance.
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 25, 2021 at 5:26 amHey Jorge, yes most of the hotels…the only one that doesn’t (as I stated) is Mahekal. Yes, your group will be covered. 🙂 I hope that helps.
Jorgesays:
January 25, 2021 at 2:45 pmThanks Sarah 😊
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 26, 2021 at 7:09 amMy pleasure. 🙂
Coreysays:
January 23, 2021 at 12:49 pmHi Sarah,
Does this mean that the hotel staff at the resorts you’ve listed will also be helping guests make the initial Covid PCR test appointments upon their arrival?
Thanks again for providing all this information!
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 25, 2021 at 5:15 amHey Corey, yes this is exactly what it means. 🙂
lisa manderinosays:
January 23, 2021 at 5:04 pmThis is such a helpful post! We already have tickets but I was getting nervous about not being able to find a testing site to get home! Thank you!
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 25, 2021 at 5:14 amHi Lisa, it’s my pleasure thank you for your lovely comments. Where are you staying during your trip?
Chong Imsays:
January 26, 2021 at 2:39 pmHi, Sarah.
I just called the Occidental Xcaret to confirm the free COVID testing and No Cost Isolation. According to the customer svc rep, this is not accurate. The Antigen test is $35.00 & they do not offer any sort of free isolation stay 🙁 Can you provide your source? Thanks!
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 27, 2021 at 2:14 amHey Chong yes my source says different…find all the info here… I will call the hotel directly to ask. https://www.classicvacations.com/hotel-status/mexico/riviera-maya
Megansays:
January 28, 2021 at 12:33 pmGood Morning,
We are going to Occidental at Xcaret this weekend. I contacted them directly yesterday they sent me the same reply as Chong, along with a list of hospitals and pricing for testing that they have negotiated. Occidental is owned by a different group (Barcelo) than Hotel Xcaret (Grupo) so I don’t believe the free testing applies. I will keep following this for updates in case there is a change! Thank you!
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 29, 2021 at 5:32 amHi Megan thank you for letting me know. I have removed Occidental while I get hold of them myself to double confirm. Thank you for bringing it to my attention.
Dannysays:
January 30, 2021 at 9:31 pmHey Sarah you are AMAZING!!
Is it safe to assume that ALL the AMResorts offer the same free Antigen test and free 14 Day Quarentine if it comes up Positive? The specific one I am interested in is the Now Sapphire in Puerto Morelos? You list the Dreams, Secrets etc separately (unlike you did with the Oxidental/Xcaret group) so I wanted to clear that up…Thx… Danny
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 1, 2021 at 5:37 amYes AM resorts are freaking awesome! And includes NOW resorts I will be sure to clear that up. Thank you for the lovely words it means the world.
Ivysays:
February 5, 2021 at 9:27 pmHi I’m staying at a Airbnb the end of the month. We’re coming to tour Xcaret for our wedding next year. We can’t test at Xcaret cause we aren’t staying on property. Would you have a list of local areas to test in playa del Carmen for a reasonable price? Like clinic or pharmacy. Thank you!
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 8, 2021 at 5:40 amHi Ivy I sure do… https://playadelcarmen.com/blog/covid-test-cancun-riviera-maya/#top
Tinasays:
February 19, 2021 at 10:04 amHi Sarah!
This info is amazing. Could you please let me know if Barcelo Palace is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost? If not what is the cost and what is their quarantine policy if someone’s test comes back positive?
Thank you so much!
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 23, 2021 at 11:55 amHey Tina, have you already booked your hotel? If not please call us on our toll-free number as we will be able to ring the hotel for you to check. The policy is subject to change so it would be difficult to give you a definite answer at this stage. Sorry to not be more helpful.
Laureensays:
February 19, 2021 at 11:06 amSarah,
We were going to book at the Paradisus in May. I’m so torn. I want to go so bad but am worried sick about getting Covid and not being able to fly back to the US. Plus being quarantined in a foreign country and the cost of what would be involved. We don’t have extra funds to cover what would be so devastating to us! Our travel agent does not feel comfortable sending us due to this scenario,
What to do!?
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 23, 2021 at 12:00 pmHi Laureen, I understand your distress, I feel you! I wish I could answer that question for you. However, think of it like this…worst-case scenario is that you got sick, not likely, but worst-case (the odds say you’d recover, pending you have no underlying issues?), the hotel would let you quarantine for 14 days with room service… what’s not to love about that? Movie marathon, hell yes. Nobody is doing more right now than the luxury hotels like Paradisus. The chances of getting sick there are very slim…I’m confused… What extra funds would you need? You mean for rebooking your flight?
AJ from Bostonsays:
February 22, 2021 at 4:23 pmHi Sarah – love your blog. We are coming to PDC in mid March and planning to stay at Panama Jack. I have three questions –
1. do you know if they offer free Covid testing?
2. i have seen very extreme reviews about Panama Jack (pics look great). We are a mid-40s couple traveling with no kids. Would you recommend this place or stick to the RIUs or other mega resorts?
3. Is the Panama Jack and surrounding are safe?
Thanks
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 23, 2021 at 12:06 pmHey AJ all amazing questions. First off which Panama Jack are we talking Cancun or Playa del Carmen? BOTH are awesome. I would without a shadow of a doubt recommend Panama Jack above places like the Riu. No question. Yes Panama Jack Resorts are offering free covid tests they are listed as no.10 in this blog (as they are part of Playa Resorts). Yes, Panama Jack in both Cancun and Playa del Carmen are in great areas. Cancun hotel is in the hotel zone which is tourist central. Panama Jack in PDC is right downtown next to 5th Av great place for enjoying shops, bars, restaurants etc. You may get haggled on 5th Avenue but you just keep walking I’ve never had any both and trust me I get haggled a lot ha. I hope that helps.
AJ from Bostonsays:
March 7, 2021 at 1:17 pmThanks Sarah for the info. We are planning to stay at Panama Jack PDC (not Cancun)
Elmer from San Antonio TXsays:
March 1, 2021 at 1:10 pmHey Sarah, do you know if Grand Moon Palace in Cancun offer free covid test? Do you have a travel agency here in the US? We’re planning to visit Cancun in June but we just want to make sure that we will not miss our flight back home becuase of late covid test results. Also, do you know if Mexico requires covid test from US
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 3, 2021 at 3:51 amHey Elmer, I don’t believe Mexico does require a test. Have you already booked with Grand Moon Palace?
Sandra Zendejassays:
March 5, 2021 at 8:57 amWe’re staying at Live Aqua April 4-10..do they offer free covid testing?
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 5, 2021 at 9:31 amHey Sandra, not 100% sure. If you book the resort with us we will be able to call them before you make your payment to confirm and get you all booked in. If interested please email us via customercare@playadelcarmen.com
Ian Crawfordsays:
March 24, 2021 at 6:59 amHi Sarah,
I’m flying from UK to Cancun to stay in one of the local hotels and will be staying at least 14 days to comply with the US Presidential Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry as Immigrants as the US requirement is that you must have been outside of the UK for 14 days before entry to the US. Do you have information on other business people from the UK travelling to the US on b business through Cancun airport?
I want to know if they encountered any problems getting into Cancun and getting into the US via Cancun after 14 days at a local hotel. I haven’t booked a hotel yet.
I need to travel to Cancun in the next week to conclude business in the US. Your help and advice would be appreciated.
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 24, 2021 at 2:25 pmHey Ian, can I ask how are you leaving the UK I need help with that? Also, based on everything you said you will have no issues whatsoever just make sure you get your Antigen test before returning to the USA. If you need help booking a hotel please reach out at customercare@playadelcarmen.com 🙂 We will make sure you get the best deal and handle all the logistics. I hope that helps.
Michaelsays:
May 5, 2021 at 1:37 amSarah,
We are staying at Hilton, Playa del Carmen in July 2021. I’ve read that Playa Hotels & Resorts announces complimentary on-property Antigen testing beginning January 22, 2021, through April 30, 2021. Are test not being offered “free”, anymore?
Sarah Barlowsays:
May 5, 2021 at 8:23 amHi Michael let me confirm with the resort to find out. 🙂 I’ll update as soon as I hear back.
Larissasays:
July 3, 2021 at 3:18 pmHello,
I am planning to come to Cancun at the end of July, but I am worried about the COVID testing. My doctor strongly advised me not to get a deep nasal swap ( I have issues with breathing due to a medical condition that causes my sinuses to swell), so I was wondering if there are options for me to either get a throat swap, short nasal swap, or gargle test done in Cancun?
Sarah Barlowsays:
July 5, 2021 at 11:42 amHi Larissa, if you are travelling back to the USA a quick Antigen test will suffice. Please check with your local governments and hotel you book with as there are plenty of different options for everyone. If you need help booking the best hotel to assist you with testing please reach out to us at customercare@playadelcarmen.com
Michelle Dibonasays:
August 18, 2021 at 7:34 amHi, I will be staying in Playa del Carmen this February at an AirBnb rental, with 10 other family members. Do any of these hotels offer the rapid test for non-guests for a fee? Do you know if there is any lab that would come to the house to do tests? If no to these questions, what is your best suggestion on getting covid tests? Thank you!
Sarah Barlowsays:
August 19, 2021 at 9:48 amHi Michelle, no but the clinics do and they will come to you if you book in advance… here’s where you can find them. https://playadelcarmen.com/blog/covid-test-cancun-riviera-maya/ I hope it helps.
Jacquie Ann Jordheimsays:
November 2, 2021 at 5:07 pmHi Sarah,
We are travelling to Cancun on November 7th, 2021. We will be staying at the Iberostar Pardisio Lindo.
Do you have any idea about the covid tests there? Do we have to go offsite and what is the price. As we are from Canada, we have to have the PCR tests.
Thanks so much,
Jacquie
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 8, 2021 at 4:36 amHi Jacquie great question, the info is changing all the time. The best thing to do seen as you’ve already booked would be to contract the hotel or your booking provider directly. Sorry to not be more helpful.