As of recently, COVID has become a widespread issue around the world. However, how are small cities in countries such as Mexico handling COVID? Surprisingly, very well. In a recent trip, I felt very safe throughout the entirety of the trip. Flights are more controlled and masks are meant to be worn during the entire flight and in the airport, with the only exception being TSA to confirm identity.

 In one of Mexico’s best small cities San Miguel De Allende, Guanajuato, precautions are taken very seriously. With only 5,200 cases as of the beginning of November, it is very well portrayed that COVID is in fact more controlled in smaller cities rather than big cities such as Mexico City totaling more than 900K overall cases. 

Now, how are safety measures any different than the states? Very different. As a matter of fact, one of San Miguel’s biggest public celebrations, Dia De Los Muertos was canceled to avoid rising COVID cases. San Miguel De Allende has various COVID checkpoints throughout the outskirts of the town to ensure citizens and tourists have not been near exposure. Right upon entry, it is very apparent that the small city takes COVID seriously. They promote wearing a mask by giving all of their historical statues masks over their nose and mouth. Meaning, masks are required almost everywhere you go. Something very different to the states however is their disinfectant methods.

In addition to temperature checks, there are disinfectant mats. At the doorstep of any store or restaurant there are these pads you need to step on that have a disinfectant. This is used to disinfect the soles of your shoes to avoid bacterial spread. Although it may not seem like much, it’s enough to help small businesses stay clean. 

Another thing to mention, before entering the main plaza where the main church and market are located, there are “sanitization arches” that were recently implemented by disinfection armies! These arches are mandatory to walk through. The arch sprays a disinfectant into the air that allows individuals that pass through to protect both locals and visitors to feel safe.  With disinfectant armies playing a crucial role in the safety of San Miguel De Allende, it has definitely benefited this small city stay safe for both locals and visitors!