These days, it feels like travel is changing every time you turn around. And honestly, it’s becoming really difficult to keep up. While this is becoming the norm, it doesn’t feel good for those who don’t like change. Please raise your hand if you like change, or comment below because I’d like to learn from you!
There was much confusion as I flew into Cancun this past October. I was flying American Airlines and as we got closer to our destination, I could hear people starting to ask about immigration forms and why they weren’t being passed out. Finally, as we landed our flight attendance announced that the immigration process for Cancun is now digital.
As we entered the queue lines to meet the immigration officers, many were huddled around the entrance, and some walked straight through as though knowing it wasn’t necessary to huddle. I walked straight through to get through as quickly as possible not knowing anything more. There was a QR code on a sign at that entrance that people were trying to scan. Many people leave their phones in airplane mode in the airport to avoid any international charges on their phone plans. The bottom line is that people were struggling, and some were getting panicky. I started to think, I must’ve missed something but saw that there was another QR code sign as you enter the last turn of the queue so thought I’ll be fine. There wasn’t enough time to get the site up and completed before I was called up.
The process was all for naught as the immigration officer scanned my passport and asked me the following questions:
- How long are you here?
- What is your travel purpose?
- Are you bringing anything into the country? Money or food etc.
Following this she handed me my passport and I moved on.
The other difference that I found after I received my luggage was there is now a clear path out of the airport if you are not declaring anything. If you are you’ll go through the same process of playing your luck with the red/green button for determining whether your bag will be scanned or searched (I did get scolded for taking this picture).
All in all, the process was very quick and so much easier than it has been in the past. The Queue line is not part of the quick process, as that was substantial, but no longer than usual. Let us know your experiences and changes. Maybe change can be good?!
About the Author
comments