Mexico is an appealing destination for all types of travelers—from the beach bum to the chic globetrotter to the free-spirited adventurer. Here’s a look at the top things that will make your visit fun, safe, and inspiring.
Mexico has been at the top of many news feeds recently. But this isn’t a political story. Rather, it’s a story about the many reasons why Mexico should be at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists.
First of all, Mexico is huge: its country is roughly the size of the western third of the continental United States, it’s made up of 32 states (one of which is Mexico City, technically a “federal entity” rather than a state); and like any US state, each has its own unique character and landmarks. As many visitors already know, Mexico is home to incredible beaches and resorts. But its cities can rival these great leisure hotspots with a rich urban culture, unforgettable cuisine, iconic architecture, public markets, verdant parks and much more.
Mexico’s diverse landscapes stretch from the highlands of the Sierra Madre to the coasts of the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico/Caribbean. On this soil, the heritage is so deep that it is considered one of the world’s five “cradles of civilization,” dating back to 8000 B.C. BC. During these pre-European millennia, the advanced civilizations of Mesoamerica, including the Mayans, Aztecs and Teotihuacan, built cities whose pyramids and other marvelous structures still exist today.
The choice of ways to make the most of Mexico’s different destinations is vast and depends entirely on your travel preferences. But when planning your visit, keep a few tips in mind to have a truly successful vacation.
1. Arriving in Mexico
Major airports are generally hassle-free for international arrivals and even easier for domestic travel. In general, customs checks in cities like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta are quick; in Mexico City, they are fast, using almost exclusively electronic kiosks designed for foreign arrivals to scan passports (and fingerprints, just like foreign travelers arriving in the United States).
The most important thing to know is that a Mexican customs officer will stamp your passport as a visitor and return it to you along with a thin piece of paper called a “tourist permit.” “You won’t need it every day of your stay, but it is required to leave Mexico. The wise thing is to keep it in your passport, which should then be kept in your safe or another safe place so that it can be retrieved by your airline before you board your departing flight. If you lose it, you risk a fine.
2. Coins
The peso exchange rate remains favorable for most currencies, around five US cents to one peso. This is probably one of the best reasons to visit Mexico. But many businesses accept the US dollar. Avoid the temptation to pay in dollars, either in cash or by credit card, as the exchange rate will almost certainly be less favorable. When you arrive in Mexico, simply tap an ATM to withdraw pesos; then cruise around town with only the amount you might need and leave the rest in your hotel safe.
3. Affordable Mexico
Overall, Mexico is a great place to travel for international visitors. There are plenty of options for eating well and paying little, from cafes to markets to elegant restaurants. Affordable also applies to independent shops selling artisanal goods, museums, taxis and public transportation, and hotels. On the other hand, there are plenty of great places to indulge, including fine dining and luxury accommodations. The smart move is simply to determine your overall travel budget and then plan how best to allocate and maximize your travel expenses.
4. Passenger Safety
Sensational news, you might imagine that all of Mexico is a jungle of peril. Such rich stories abound, and it’s unfortunate. Because if we were to generalize, we would have to say how wonderfully warm, friendly, and decidedly civilized Mexico and its people are.
