Important Travel Updates for Cancun and Riviera Maya Guests
If you or your guests are traveling to Cancun for a destination wedding, it is important to be aware of recent changes that may affect both arrival and your stay. At Yellow Umbrella Events, we prioritize clear communication and proactive planning so your experience remains smooth and stress free.
Below are two key updates that all travelers to Cancun and the Riviera Maya should know.
Digital Immigration and Customs Process at Cancun Airport
Cancun International Airport has begun implementing a digital immigration and customs process designed to streamline arrivals.
What travelers may experience
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Some terminals now use automated digital kiosks instead of traditional immigration desks
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Travelers scan their passports and complete entry electronically
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The system is still being rolled out and may expand to additional terminals
Important reminder
After completing the kiosk process, travelers receive a printed immigration slip. This document must be kept and presented when departing Mexico. Many travelers mistakenly discard it due to limited instructions, which can cause delays at departure.
Guests who have already used this system report a faster and smoother arrival process. Couples are encouraged to remind their guests to keep this paper with their passport for the duration of their trip.
Smoking Regulations in Quintana Roo: Renewed Enforcement
The state of Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, follows Mexico’s federal tobacco control laws. While these smoking restrictions are not new, there has been a renewed and more visible effort to enforce them, particularly in tourist areas.
What the law states
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Smoking is prohibited indoors and outdoors in public places where people gather
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This includes beaches, hotel balconies, pools, parks, and common areas
These regulations have been in effect since 2023, but many travelers are only now becoming aware of them due to increased enforcement and clearer communication from resorts and local authorities.
What remains unclear
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Enforcement on private hotel properties varies by resort
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Some hotels (like Hotel Xcaret) have announced no smoking anywhere on property
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Penalties and enforcement procedures are not consistently communicated
Vaping regulations
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Vaping devices and vaping are illegal in Mexico, including their importation and sale
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While devices may still be found locally, they remain prohibited under federal law. Expect negative consequence if you or your guests try to travel with these devices
What This Means for Mexico Destination Wedding Guests
We understand these regulations may impact guests who smoke, and many couples are receiving questions as awareness increases. At Yellow Umbrella Events, our role is to provide accurate, up to date information so guests can make informed choices.
While some travelers may continue to smoke despite the restrictions, enforcement practices and consequences can vary by location and resort. Policies may also evolve as hotels continue adjusting to increased enforcement.
We are currently awaiting official clarification from Hotel Xcaret resorts and parks regarding how they plan to handle smoking regulations on their properties. Once guidance is received, we will share updates accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Travel regulations and local laws can feel sudden when enforcement increases, even if the rules themselves are not new. Staying informed helps avoid surprises and supports a smoother travel experience for destination wedding guests.
If you are planning a destination wedding in Cancun, Riviera Maya, or at Hotel Xcaret, Yellow Umbrella Events is here to guide you through every detail, including guest travel communication and expectations.
