Flight Attendant Friday: Cancun Update

Q.  You said that you were going back to Cancun.  Have things changed?  What’s the travel picture look like for that part of Mexico.

A.  Yes, I did return to Cancun, and found it just as lovely as the week before!

The flight was booked at a slightly higher passenger count, and that’s a good sign.

The hotel occupancy rate, according to one source at the hotel, was hovering around 12%.  That’s certainly not enough to fend off wide spread layoffs, but my source said that bookings for next week include several groups, putting the rate somewhere around 40%.  And that’s not too horrible for this time of year.

So if you’re going to Cancun, what can you expect?

We are heading into the low season for travel to Cancun.  That means that many airlines will be shifting equipment to higher traveled routes.  Most airlines that fly into Cancun cut back on the schedule seasonally.  This isn’t because of the flu, it’s because historical travel data shows that fewer people travel to Cancun when the weather is humid and a zillion degrees.  There will be fewer flights, but it’s nothing to worry about.

Hotel occupancy rates will be low.  This again is seasonal, and based on the fact that many people see Cancun as a winter destination rather than as a summer one.  That’s also part of the reason why there are some screaming deals out there.  Sure, occupancy may be slightly lower as a result of the flu scare, but it’s also the time people book city to avoid the wall-to-wall throng of tourists.  There will be people there, but you won’t be packed in like sardines around the pool.

Restaurants, bars, and clubs are open.  I went downtown for dinner, and restaurants were open.  Most of the patios had a lot of tables full of diners (this was about 7 pm).  It wasn’t packed, and you’d have no problem getting a table, but people were out.  I’m a little too old for the club life, so can’t tell you if Cocobongo or any of the other infamous clubs were open (I believe they were) or how many people were out dancing till the wee hours.

If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, it’s a good time to head south.  Hotels and resorts are offering all sorts inducements to come to Cancun.  From discounted prices, free nights, or complimentary upgraded rooms and amenities – if you want to visit Cancun, there’s a way to afford it.

Adios mi amigos!

Photo credit: