Is spring break fully booked? Here’s a look at what’s happening in Orlando, Cancun, and Las Vegas

When you think of spring break, the word "crowds" likely springs to mind. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic, large gatherings are strongly discouraged this year, making spring break unlike any we’ve seen before. Many are choosing vacation home rentals to maintain social distancing, while others are opting for road trips and exploring state and national parks.

Yet for some, it just wouldn’t be spring break without a trip to Orlando, Las Vegas, or Cancun, and these destinations are still top choices and quite busy right now.

As vaccinations become more accessible, confidence in travel is on the rise. Nonetheless, it remains crucial to stay cautious, as COVID-19 is still a serious concern. International hotels, including those offering loyalty points, have begun providing on-site testing to facilitate easier returns to the U.S., while domestic hotels and locations continue to enforce their pandemic safety measures.

Here’s what three popular spring break destinations will look like this year.

Orlando theme parks are seeing high demand

Theme park fans can still plan a trip to Orlando this spring break, as both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort are operational. The area has implemented a health and safety initiative titled "Safer, Stronger, Together," encouraging guests to adhere to practices like hand washing, social distancing, and wearing masks.

Bookings for Disney World appear to be robust (considering the parks' capacity limits) for the remainder of the month and into April, catering to spring break visitors and locals on vacation. The booking calendar below shows limited availability.

As noted by Daryl Cronk, senior director of Market Research & Insights at Visit Orlando, "Orlando has experienced an uptick in visitors and reservations due to increased vaccinations and relaxed travel restrictions across the country."

"We estimate that spring break this year will see occupancy levels similar to those during Christmas/New Year's Eve, which was around 50%," states Cronk. Last year's spring break period (the two weeks surrounding Easter) recorded the lowest occupancy of the year at just 12.5%.

Each theme park has implemented its own COVID-19 guidelines for spring break visitors. Universal Orlando has pandemic protocols for staff, including mask mandates, social distancing, and temperature checks upon arrival, while Disney World has protocols that feature enhanced cleaning, social distancing, and minimizing contact whenever possible.

Can you enjoy a beach getaway in Cancun?

If you're planning a trip to Cancun for some sun and surf, entry has become easier with the recent easing of restrictions ahead of spring break. The government of Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun, recently announced via its Twitter account that capacity limits at hotels, restaurants, and beaches will be raised from 30% to 60%.

Traveling to Cancun is hassle-free as a negative COVID-19 test is not required for entry. However, it's essential to remember that the U.S. mandates international travelers to undergo testing before returning. This test must be completed within three days prior to your departure back to the States.

"We provide a complimentary COVID-19 antigen test for guests staying three nights or longer," states Jonathan Urban, director of sales and marketing for SLS Cancun. Many properties in Cancun offer similar on-site COVID-19 testing options.

Here’s a partial list of properties providing on-site COVID-19 testing:

• SLS Cancun
• JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa
• Marriott Cancun Resort
• Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun
• Secrets Riviera Cancun
• Secrets the Vine Cancun
• Grand Fiesta Americana
• Coral Beach Cancun All-Inclusive Spa Resort
• Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun All Inclusive
• Fiesta Americana Cancun Villas
• Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Cancun
• The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Villas & Spa
• Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Garza Blanca Cancun
• Villa del Palmar Cancun
• Hyatt Ziva Cancun
• Hyatt Zilara Cancun
• Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
• Dreams Vista Cancun Golf & Spa Resort

It's essential to remember that not all properties provide complimentary testing; some may charge fees. For instance, Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Mexico, has on-site testing starting at $92 per guest, while Hyatt Ziva Cancun offers free antigen tests, but charges $29 for a PCR test.

That anxious moment of awaiting your test results? I experienced that on my recent return from the Caribbean, where you can't help but worry about what happens if you or a travel companion tests positive before departure.

It's crucial to verify with the resort what quarantine or extended stay options they provide. For example, Dean Sullivan, vice president of marketing and communications at Playa Hotels & Resorts, mentions that "The Extended Stay Protection at Hyatt Ziva Cancun offers accommodations at no extra charge for up to 14 nights for guests who cannot complete their travel due to testing-related issues."

Las Vegas shines bright for spring break visitors

The pandemic severely impacted most travel destinations, and Las Vegas was no exception. In 2020, the city recorded its lowest visitor count since 1989, welcoming only 19 million guests, a staggering decline of 55.2% from 2019.

Despite this, numerous businesses and casinos in Las Vegas are eager to host those seeking a spring break getaway. According to Casino.org, Derek Stevens, owner of Circa Resort, reports a significant increase in March bookings, likely fueled by growing confidence in vaccination efforts nationwide.

MGM Resorts, which operates properties like Bellagio, MGM Grand, and ARIA, is ready to welcome guests as usual, adhering to their Seven-Point Safety Plan that includes mask mandates, temperature screenings, social distancing, and enhanced cleaning protocols.

Bottom line

Following CDC guidelines is essential for maintaining a healthy and safe spring break experience during the pandemic, whether traveling domestically or internationally. Key recommendations include wearing masks, practicing social distancing whenever possible, and avoiding crowded spaces. These measures still apply even if you've received one or more doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.