MEXICO CITY — One of the most important tourism seasons in Mexico is the Holy Week holiday, an equivalent to spring break but based on the Catholic calendar. But this year, Mexicans will have to celebrate at home, as the coronavirus pandemic spreads.
The government is pushing hard to stop tourism. Even Whatsapp voice messaging, one of the most popular ways of communication among Mexicans, is now a tool for Mexico’s Undersecretary of Health Hugo López-Gatell.
In a recorded viral message, López-Gatell says the quarantine is not a vacation and asks everyone to avoid traveling.
Local media report touristic towns and cities are nearly deserted and highways are practically empty. Many beaches in Mexico are closed.
Religious processions have been suspended. And for the first time in its 177-year history, Mexico City's recreation of the Passion of Christ is being televised without an audience.
