Mexico Travel Guide

What You Need To Know: The Bare Bones

Population: 103.5 Million
Area: 1.9 Million Km2
Religion: 89% Roman Catholic. 6% Protestant. 5% Other.
Currency: New Peso

Passports, Visas etc.

Passports are not required by US citizens but if not carried some other proof of ID, as provided by the US government is. However it is easier to take a passport, that is what the guys on borders and entry gates are most used to. UK citizens require passports but neither UK nor US citizens need visas. However both nationalities are required to fill in carry a tourist card on entry to the country. This records various information including length of stay. If you are found with a card past its date then you may be liable to a fine. Check current requirements prior to going with either US State Dept or UK Foreign Office.

Be Safe

Vigilance is advised at all times in Mexico. There are armed criminals all over, in both town and country. Be careful at night, carry the minimum amount of cash needed, no jewellery; take care with cameras, video cameras etc. Be wary when using ATM machines. Carry photo copys of your ID, not originals. Only use 'official' Taxis. Let people know what your itinerary is. I could go on but you get the picture, be careful, use common sense and you should be OK.

Law and Order

Do not get involved in selling or trafficking drugs. Do not get involved in people smuggling. The Mexican jails are not nice and the police can be very uncompromising.

Keeping the Bugs Out

EU citizens are not allowed to bring meat or dairy products into Mexico. US citizens should check with the State Dept for details.

Stay Healthy

Ever wondered why it is called Montezumas revenge? Drink only bottled water, don't take ice in drinks except unless it is made from bottled or purified water. Be careful of the food, try and ensure it is thoroughly well prepared and cooked, avoid salads and raw vegetables. Contaminated food and drink can cause many other problems than just diarrhoea, so be careful. Use anti mosquito measures especially in the rainy season. Check to see whether the part of Mexico you are visiting is prone to malaria, if so take the appropriate precautions. Take sensible precautions regarding the sun. Make sure that you have ample medical insurance. Whilst most towns are well provided for with medical facilities, payment may be required, cash up front.

Insurance

Make sure you are well covered in case of theft or loss of goods, money or possessions whilst you are in Mexico. Also, have ample medical and accident insurance.

Cash And Plastic

The easiest way to carry money is in the form of US Dollars or US Travellers Cheques. ATM's are widely available but care should be taken when using them. Credit Cards are widely accepted.

When To Go

After all the above this is the good bit. It is hot and can be humid on both coastlines. Going inland the altitude rises and whilst temperatures remain high humidity falls. As one gets higher there are snow capped mountains. When it does rain it can get very heavy especially between June and October but this varies depending on precise location. The most comfortable time to go is probably between November and May.

So, What is it Really Like?

Mexico is a huge country with a population to match.

From mountains and jungles to deserts and beaches, Mexico has stunning scenery. Historically Mexico rates right up at the top of the list of places to go. From the Mayans, Aztecs and Olmecs to the Conquistadors and General Santa Anna (remember The Alamo?) all have left an indelible mark on this most archaeologically fascinating of countries.

The people themselves are diverse in a way that reflects their past. The population splits broadly into Indigenas - Indian - or Mestizos - mixed Spanish and other descent. Whilst many Indian cultures have disappeared or been consumed by invading cultures, 50 or so are still fighting to survive.

Tourists are usually assumed to be from the US and visitors soon find there is a degree of ambivalence from the Mexicans about their near neighbours. This is invariably forgotten if visitors are undaunted and make an effort to be friendly.