Queretaro, Mexico - Vacationing During a Pandemic - Part 1

Queretaro-Mexico, originally uploaded by rigel.m.

We’re back from Queretaro Mexico and with no signs of the Swine Flu. Of course, we weren’t particularly surprised as we were getting direct reports from Queretaro before we left that things were not nearly as bad as they were being portrayed in the media. We haven’t downloaded the photos yet but will post some in the coming days.

We got word from Vero two days before we left that 22 wedding guests had already arrived. We knew we would be troopers too not backing out unless they closed the border, though we had to endure two more days of media sensationalism before leaving… and arguably the two worst days. Still, we were prepared with our flu meds, hand sanitizer and masks. We were cautious and well aware of the pending pandemic when we arrived in Mexico City. The majority of travelers and airport staff were in masks but the city still seemed to be bustling to us (though we haven’t seen it on a normal day). We put our masks on and took the cushy coach bus three hours to Queretaro. Once we arrived it was like news of the Swine Flu hadn’t even made it there. Of course it had and everyone was aware of fears in Mexico City, but Queretaro is a different place. When looking around, only a handful of people had masks, mainly the elderly. The city was going about its regular routine. Children were playing in the plazas with the clowns and performers, Mexican tourists were shopping and visiting the many churches and cathedrals, and the cafes were full of patrons. The only thing out of place was how few American tourists were present. Even our flight, which was full initially, was two-thirds empty with us being the only Americans on board.

In Mexico, women are always greeted with a kiss and men with a handshake or a hug. I wondered if worries of the flu would temporarily curtail this tradition but to the contrary it seemed everyone was embracing with even more enthusiasm than usual as if to make the point that they will not allow the virus to impact their lifestyle. Evidently, the point was made. Dozens of guests came from California, Oregon, Washington and even Denmark. Everyone felt great and enjoyed themselves fully. Queretaro is a stunning city packed with the warmest and most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. One weekend there and you can understand why Vero is so proud of her home. Jeff and I are just glad that we were able to be there to share in Vero and Paul’s special day. We can’t wait to go back again.

I will post some photos and trip highlights over the next week.