No matter the season, no matter the weather, and now no matter the health status, Cozumel is paradise on earth. But a lot of visitors to the island wonder what it is like here during the Covid-19 crisis. So, I thought it might be helpful to describe the levels of restrictions/regulations that we are under.
The country of Mexico operates on a traffic light system. I’m not sure where Level Orange fits in to that since it’s not on a traffic light, but there are 4 levels: Red, Orange, Yellow, and Green. Cozumel, as of today and through September 6, 2020, is at Level Orange. The level is assessed and adjusted as warranted each week. UPDATE: Effective September 7, 2020, WE MOVE UP TO LEVEL YELLOW!
PLEASE NOTE: Cozumel is NOT the United States. Masks MUST be worn at all times outside the house (or hotel), and this includes covering your nose. Social distancing of 6 feet must be maintained. There is a limit of 2 people per scooter, and the stated capacity of a car. If you do not follow these rules, you could face a fine of $125 USD (approximately). Don’t ruin your vacation by not following these simple, respectful guidelines!
What follows is not exhaustive, but covers things of importance to most people.
| Activity | Unit of Measurement | Level Red | Level Orange | Level Yellow | Level Green |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach clubs | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% & 6 ft social distancing | 60% & 6 ft social distancing | 100% |
| Public beaches | Capacity | CLOSED | CLOSED | 60% | FULLY OPEN |
| Restaurants & Coffee shops | Capacity | Delivery & takeout only | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Movie theater | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Diving, fishing, & other water activities | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Shops | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Bars, discos, nightclubs & casinos | Capacity | CLOSED | CLOSED | CLOSED | 100% |
| Gyms & sports clubs | Capacity | CLOSED | CLOSED | CLOSED | 100% |
| Tours | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Hotels | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Car rental | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Churches | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Golf | Capacity | CLOSED | 30% | 60% | 100% |
| Social events, groups, conventions | Persons | NONE | 10 or less | 50 or less | Unlimited |
| Sale of household goods, computers, interior decoration, & used items | Capacity | 15% | 30% | 80% | 100% |
| Automotive parts, car wash, mechanic workshops | Capacity | 15% | 30% | 80% | 100% |
| Car sales | Capacity | 15% | 30% | 80% | 100% |
| Real estate, real estate leasing, condominium management | Capacity | 15% | 30% | 80% | 100% |
| Artistic, cultural & sports services | Capacity | CLOSED | CLOSED | 60% | 100% |