After three days, I leave the cocoon of my hotel for good. I booked a small apartment on Isla Mujeres. Only after having booked, I read that this island is one of the party spots for Spring Break. Fortunately, there is no break in the US colleges right now. The ferry that takes about half an hour, I also booked ahead. A real piece of cake in pre-pandemic times now feels like a significant step. I am barely used to travel anymore. Way too early, I desert my room, way too impatient I’m waiting for check out. It’s only a couple of minutes walking to the ferry. A display informs that wearing masks is mandatory and that you aren’t allowed to board when your body temperature is above 36 Celsius. A short moment I am confused about that number.
Being on the island is a tremendous change. The hustle and bustle of the big resorts seem far away. Isla Mujeres is laid back and, if you’re not hanging out in the street with all the souvenir vendors, very calm. Also, big enough to keep me busy walking around, but still small to not get lost. Many little street-side restaurants offer tacos and ceviche.
Is it okay to travel these days? In general, no, because the reduction of contacts helps to contain the spread of the virus. Individually said, yes, I weigh risk against outcome. And another yes, as I am not traveling because of tourism. Is there a contradiction? The answer to that is not just b/w: The pandemic put many obstacles up for global biographies such as binational couples and families, international employees, and others more. Traveling is by far not only for tourism.
