Travel Safety Tips for Cinco de Mayo

Myth: Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day. 

Fact: Cinco de Mayo commemorates the 1862 Battle of Puebla, in which the vastly outnumbered Puebla army defeated French forces. Mexico’s Independence day is September 16th. 

In countries other than Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is usually seen as an excuse to host fiestas, hit the bars and gorge on burritos. But in the Mexican state of Puebla, it’s so much more than that. In 1862, as Napoleon’s elite troops threatened to take over the municipality, the people of Puebla fought back. And despite being outnumbered, they outfoxed French forces and took back their home.

One of the best ways to correct misconceptions of a country’s history and culture is through travel. In honor of Cinco de Mayo, here are some fast facts and things to do in the indomitable city of Puebla. 

You’ll Want Travel Insurance for Mexico

First thing’s first: The Center for Disease Control (CDC) currently lists Mexico’s COVID-19 threat at a Level 3, indicating a very high level. The CDC recommends avoiding all travel to Mexico for the time being…which means maybe you can plan to celebrate Cinco de Mayo 2022 in Puebla. However, if you choose to visit before then, there’s a few things you should know. Mexico border officials don’t require foreign travelers to quarantine, although unvaccinated people must get a Covid test and produce a negative result at least three days before departing your home country.

If you’re a U.S. resident, you must get a Covid test and produce a negative result within three days of your return flight. Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but it’s highly recommended. Read on to see just how travel insurance can protect you and your trip investments as you experience Puebla firsthand. 

You Can Tour Landmarks of the Battle of Puebla  

There’s no better way to commemorate Puebla’s unlikely defeat of the French than to tour the combat fields and forts where it happened. Visiting the Guadalupe and Loreto forts can help you imagine just what the battle must have been like. Whether you’re taking a bus or walking tour or just going on a self-guided sightseeing tour, be prepared for the unexpected. Misfortune and mishaps can happen to anyone at any time. When people think about travel insurance, they tend to think about major accidents and life-threatening situations.

While these may be more rare, minor incidents can happen more frequently than you’d think. Travel insurance can protect you financially if a trip-and-fall lands you in the doctor’s office, or a sudden stomach ache sends you to the pharmacy. Paying just a little up front can protect you against more significant financial loss later.  

Experience the Busy Town-square of Zocalo  

As you take in the sights and sounds of the Zocalo and indulge in truly authentic Mexican meals, the last thing you want to deal with is injury or illness. While buying travel insurance for Mexico can’t prevent misfortunes, it can certainly help alleviate the related stress and prevent the situation from getting worse.

Hopefully, you’ll never have to use your travel insurance. But, if the unexpected happens during your Mexico travels, your travel insurance policy will give you peace of mind.  

Puebla is a Great Place to Hike  

You’ll find some of the best hikes in and near Puebla.  Whether you’re taking in the rock formations of Piedras Encimadas on a leisurely walk or braving the 7-mile Pico de Orizaba South Face Trail, be sure to protect yourself. If you plan on hiking in Puebla, you should plan on getting hiking and mountaineering insurance.  For more hiking inspiration, check out Hiking 101.

Traveling is one of the best ways to appreciate the history and significance of a culture. In 1862, the scrappy underdog Puebla army defeated the powerful French forces. That spirit of bravery, persistence and determination is alive and well in the Puebla. Experiencing this firsthand is truly the best way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.