FAQS ABOUT MEXICO

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MEXICO

Planning a trip to Mexico? It's natural to have questions about traveling to this diverse and captivating country. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your Mexican adventure.

 

Isla Holbox

 

Is Mexico safe for travelers?

 Like any other destination, safety in Mexico can vary depending on the region and specific circumstances. While certain areas may experience higher crime rates, many popular tourist destinations in Mexico are considered safe for travelers. It's always advisable to stay informed about travel advisories, follow local guidelines, exercise caution, and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe trip.

 

What are the must-visit attractions in Mexico?

Mexico is renowned for its diverse range of attractions. Some of the must-visit destinations include the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan, the vibrant neighborhoods of Mexico City, the stunning beaches of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, the historical city of Oaxaca, the colonial charm of San Miguel de Allende, and the natural wonders of Copper Canyon and Sumidero Canyon, among many others.

 

Chichen Itza

 

How is the weather in Mexico?

Mexico's weather varies significantly depending on the region and season. Generally, the country has a combination of tropical, desert, and temperate climates. Coastal regions, such as Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, enjoy warm weather year-round, while central areas like Mexico City have mild and pleasant temperatures. It's recommended to check the specific weather conditions of your destination and plan accordingly. See this blog for more information.

 

What should I pack for a trip to Mexico?

Packing essentials for Mexico may include lightweight and breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, a swimsuit, and a reusable water bottle. It's also advisable to carry a copy of your passport, travel insurance details, and any necessary medications. Additionally, consider packing a universal power adapter and a language translation app on your smartphone.

 

Mexico Suitcase

 

What are some traditional Mexican dishes I should try?

Mexico is famous for its delicious cuisine. Some traditional dishes you should try include tacos (with various fillings like carne asada, al pastor, or fish), tamales, enchiladas, chiles en nogada, mole poblano, guacamole, ceviche, and regional specialties like pozole, cochinita pibil, and tlayudas. Don't forget to indulge in the flavors of authentic Mexican salsas and enjoy refreshing beverages like margaritas and aguas frescas. See this blog for more information.

 

How can I experience Mexican culture and traditions?

To immerse yourself in Mexican culture, explore local markets, visit art museums and galleries, attend traditional festivals (such as Dia de los Muertos or Guelaguetza), take part in cooking classes to learn about Mexican cuisine, and interact with locals to gain insights into their customs and traditions. Exploring historical sites, archaeological ruins and indigenous communities can also provide a deeper understanding of Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

 

Mexican Embroidery

 

What is the best way to get around Mexico?

Mexico offers various transportation options depending on your destination. In cities, you can use taxis, ride-sharing apps, or public transportation systems like buses or metro systems. For longer distances, domestic flights, buses, or rental cars are common choices. In popular tourist areas, bicycles and scooters may also be available for rent. It's recommended to research and choose the most suitable mode of transportation based on your itinerary and comfort level. See this blog for more information.

 

What is the currency used in Mexico?

The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). It's advisable to exchange your currency for pesos before or upon arrival. Currency exchange offices, banks, and ATMs are readily available in most tourist areas. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's always good to carry some cash, especially for small vendors or markets where cash transactions are more common.

 

Mexican Pesos

 

Do I need a visa to visit Mexico?

Visa requirements for Mexico vary depending on your nationality. Many countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand, do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 180 days. However, it's important to check the specific visa requirements for your country before traveling and ensure your passport has a validity of at least six months beyond your planned departure date. See this blog for more information.

 

What are some cultural etiquette tips for visiting Mexico?

When visiting Mexico, it's appreciated to greet people with a friendly "Hola" or "Buenos días/tardes/noches." Respect for elders and authority figures is highly valued in Mexican culture. It's customary to address others using their formal titles (such as "Señor" or "Señora"). When dining, it's polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Additionally, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals and showing respect for their language and culture.

 

Mexican Family Meal

What are the accommodations like?

In Mexico, we have selected a variety of accommodations ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to comfortable city hotels with all of the modern conveniences. In general, we use small, family-run accommodations that are locally owned and characteristic of each area instead of luxury chain resorts. 

 

Are these trips suitable for kids?

Yes and no. Our Adventure tours in Baja California are a great choice for families with school-aged children who have an interest in nature and wildlife. Our Chiapas tours are also a great option for kids that enjoy history and nature. Some of our other Mexico tours include multi-day treks, so they are generally recommended only for kids aged 12 and above. Please inquire with your Trip Designer as to what trip would be most appropriate for you and your family.

 

Chichen Itza With Children

 

Do I need an electrical adapter?

Electricity in Mexico is 110 volts, the same as in the US. Visitors from outside of the US should bring an adapter. Plugs are either two flat prongs or two flat prongs with an additional round grounding pin.

 

Do tour rates include international flights?

Tour rates do not include international flights. We find that it is usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately, and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. Alternatively, we can help you arrange these flights with an airfare consolidator who specializes in South American flights.

 

Mexico Airport

How far in advance should I book?

You can book your Mexico tour at any time. For most departures, 2-3 months' notice is fine, though tours around the holidays may fill up 5-6 months in advance. We usually recommend that you wait to book your international flights until after your tour is confirmed. The sooner that we arrange your tour, the sooner that you can take advantage of flight deals as they become available.

Is the water safe to drink?

Tap water is generally not safe to drink in Mexico. Bottled water is readily available at tourist sites, hotels, and restaurants. Don't forget to use bottled water when brushing your teeth as well! Ice is not always made with boiled/ bottled water. Order your beverages without ice ("sin hielo") or ask your tour leader if the ice is safe in a particular restaurant.

 

Mexican Tap

 

Should I bring cash or Traveler's checks? Are ATMs available? Can I use credit cards?

Most travelers bring a small amount of local currency with them and withdraw from ATMs as they need it along the way. ATMs are readily available in the larger towns and cities. Travelers can withdraw local currency at fair exchange rates using an ATM. Traveler's checks are fine, but they can be more difficult to exchange and you will usually receive a poorer rate or be charged an additional fee. Credit cards are accepted in most major cities and large shopping areas. In more remote areas there may be difficulties using credit cards, so you do not want to solely rely on them for financial transactions. It is best to have local currency on hand when traveling to more small towns or remote areas.

 

What time zone is Mexico?

Most of Mexico, including the states of Jalisco, Colima, and Oaxaca, is in the Central Time zone, 6 hours behind GMT. (Mexico uses daylight savings time in the summer.) Northern Baja California is on Pacific Time, 8 hours behind GMT. Baja California Sur, Sonora, Sinaloa, Chihuahua, and Nayarit are on Mountain Time, 7 hours behind GMT. Quintana Roo is on Eastern Time, 5 hours behind GMT.

 

International Timelines

Is travel insurance recommended?

Absolutely!!! Make sure you travel with a comprehensive travel insurance policy that provides reasonably priced insurance for trip cancellation, medical expenses, medical evacuation, lost bags, etc. It's always best to pan for the unplanned!

 

What Other Countries Combine Well With Mexico?

A visit to neighboring Belize, where there are luxury eco-lodges, superb diving, and snorkeling all embraced in British Caribbean cultural heritage.

 

Altun Ha  Belize

 

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