Mexico Travel Advices

Mexico Travel Advices

Expert tips for gear, clothing, and gadgets to enhance your travel experience.

As someone who has traveled to Mexico several times, I can offer a variety of tips to help you get the most out of your trip:

1. Explore Beyond the Popular Tourist Spots

While places like Cancún, Cabo San Lucas, and Mexico City are amazing, don’t be afraid to explore lesser-known destinations:

• San Miguel de Allende: A charming colonial town known for its vibrant art scene and cobblestone streets.

• Oaxaca: Famous for its rich cultural traditions, food (especially mole), and stunning architecture.

• Guanajuato: A picturesque city with colorful buildings, underground tunnels, and a fascinating history.

• Bacalar: A lesser-known gem on the Yucatán Peninsula with a stunning lagoon often called the "Lake of Seven Colors."

2. Be Adventurous with Food

Mexican cuisine is incredibly diverse, and each region offers unique dishes. Some tips:

• Street food is a must-try. Look for tacos al pastor, tamales, and tortas at local stands.

• Oaxaca is known for its moles (complex sauces), tlayudas (large toasted tortillas), and mezcal (an agave-based spirit).

• Yucatán Peninsula has a distinct culinary tradition, with dishes like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and salbutes (fried tortillas topped with meat and vegetables).

• Don’t be afraid to try something new, like chapulines (grasshoppers) or a regional specialty you haven’t heard of before.

3. Learn Some Spanish

While English is spoken in many tourist areas, knowing some basic Spanish can enhance your experience, especially if you venture off the beaten path. Mexicans are generally warm and appreciative of any effort to speak their language.

4. Plan for the Varied Climate

Mexico is geographically diverse, so be aware of the climate in the regions you're visiting:

• Mexico City and the central highlands can be cool in the mornings and evenings, even during summer.

• Yucatán Peninsula (Cancún, Tulum) is hot and humid most of the year, especially in the summer.

• Baja California and northern Mexico are typically dry and can be desert-like.

5. Understand Transportation Options

• Domestic Flights: Mexico is a large country, and flying between regions (e.g., from Mexico City to Cancún or Oaxaca) is often the most efficient option.

• Bus Travel: Mexico’s bus system is highly developed, especially for long-distance travel. ADO and ETN buses are comfortable and safe for travel between cities.

• Taxis and Rideshares: In cities like Mexico City, Uber or Didi is a safe and convenient option. For local taxis, use authorized services from official stands or hotels.

6. Cultural Etiquette

• Tipping: Tipping is customary in Mexico. In restaurants, leave about 10-15%, and tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and guides where appropriate.

• Greetings: Mexicans appreciate politeness. A simple "buenos días" (good morning) or "buenas tardes" (good afternoon) goes a long way when interacting with locals.

• Respecting Local Customs: If you visit smaller towns or indigenous communities, it's important to be respectful of local traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious ceremonies.

7. Safety Tips

• Mexico is generally safe for travelers, but like any destination, you should take common-sense precautions.

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

• Use ATMs in secure locations (inside banks or malls).

• Be cautious of your surroundings in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets.

8. Get Familiar with the "Pueblos Mágicos"

Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns) are smaller towns recognized for their historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Some favorites include:

• Tequila (Jalisco): Known for tequila production and tours of distilleries.

• Tepoztlán (Morelos): A mystical town famous for its pyramid and spiritual vibe.

• Valle de Bravo (State of Mexico): A beautiful lakeside town, great for nature lovers.

9. Explore Mexico’s Archaeological Sites

Mexico is home to incredible ancient ruins from the Mayan and Aztec civilizations. Don’t miss:

• Teotihuacan: Near Mexico City, these ancient pyramids are awe-inspiring, especially the Pyramid of the Sun.

• Chichen Itza: A world-famous Mayan ruin and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

• Palenque: A Mayan site in the jungle, offering a more intimate and less crowded experience.

10. Enjoy Mexico’s Natural Beauty

Mexico’s landscapes are breathtaking, from its beaches to its mountains:

• Tulum and Playa del Carmen offer stunning Caribbean beaches with turquoise waters.

• Copper Canyon in the north is larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon and can be explored via the famous El Chepe train.

• Whale watching in Baja California during the winter months is an unforgettable experience.