I grew up in a Mexican household in the heart of American suburbia, one of those kids who spent their childhood ping-ponging across the border. Summers meant Mexico, splitting my time between the north and west, as comfortable on janky city buses as I was body surfing on white capped waves. Adulthood meant more of the same, but instead of summer months, it was entire years, and instead of the north and west, it was the south and east.
All these years later, I’m still awed by Mexico’s vastness and diversity, its showcase of unique landscapes, flavors, music, and art. Moreover, despite these differences, I see the tendrils that bind Mexico together everywhere: social customs and cultural gems, safety issues, and travel trends. Here are a few tips to make navigating Mexico a little easier.
1. Budget Early for the High Season
Mexico is a popular destination year-round, but Christmas, New Year’s, spring break, and July see an uptick in travelers, both foreign and domestic. Consequently, expect higher prices for accommodation, excursions, car rentals, and even airfare, sometimes double the norm. Hotels fill up fast—plan ahead, especially on the coasts where locals tend to vacation.
2. Pack for the Climate
Mexico is a vast, multi-climate country with destinations ranging from frosty mornings at 8700ft to balmy nights at sea level. Research your destination’s weather so you know what to expect and how to pack—you may need a bikini, an umbrella, or a winter jacket (or all three!). Remember that Mexico sits squarely in the hurricane belt, making its coasts susceptible to big storms from June to November.
3. Bring Sunscreen and Mosquito Repellent
If you’ll need sunscreen or mosquito repellent, bring it from home. While you can find both in Mexico, the options are limited and often expensive.
4. Use Your ATM Card
It’s wise to bring some cash for emergencies (say, if you lose your wallet), but there’s no need to exchange large sums of cash—use Mexican ATMs instead. They’re ubiquitous in all but the smallest of towns and are the most economical way to get pesos. However, be cautious of ATM transaction fees! If they exceed US$5/6 per withdrawal, find another bank’s machine (BBVA Bancomer and Santander tend to have the lowest fees). If the ATM prompts you to accept a “special” exchange rate, decline it to receive the official exchange rate, which is always in your favor.
5. Leave Your Bling at Home
Avoid bringing flashy watches and jewelry to Mexico. Wearing them risks you standing out and becoming a target for pickpockets and scammers. Likewise, resist renting a luxury car, which is more likely to be broken into or flagged by officials.
6. Embrace Long Distance Bus Travel
Unless you need a car, taking long-distance buses is advisable for exploring Mexico. Countless bus companies crisscross the country, providing reliable and efficient transport. Always opt for primera clase (first class) service, which is slightly more expensive than segunda clase (second class), but far more comfortable, featuring cushy reclining seats, individual screens, Wi-Fi, and even snacks.
7. Say Hello… Even to Passersby
Mexicans deeply value pleasantries—it’s a sign of respect. Saying “buenos días” (good morning) or “buenas tardes” (good afternoon) when entering a room or business is customary. When leaving, a quick “con permiso” (excuse me) is considered polite. Furthermore, when meeting someone for the first time, a handshake with a “mucho gusto” (a great pleasure) is expected; if you know the person well, a kiss on the cheek or a hug is typical.
8. Tip (Almost) Everyone
Tipping is a crucial source of income for many workers in Mexico, from the person who “watches” your parked car to the concierge who provides specialized services. In general, tip 10% to 15% for waiters and tour guides, US$3 to US$10 per day for hotel housekeepers, US$2 to US$3 per bag for porters, and US$0.25 to US$0.75 for parking attendants, grocery baggers, and gas station attendants. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips but certainly appreciate them!
9. Be a Respectful Photographer
No one enjoys a stranger suddenly aiming a camera at their face. This holds especially true for Mexicans, including Indigenous peoples, who are often targeted due to their traditional clothing. Therefore, approach the person first and ask for permission to take a photo. In marketplaces or with street vendors, purchasing something and then asking tends to ease the process.
10. Bargain with Kindness
Haggling is part of shopping in Mexico, particularly in markets and streetside stands. Often, prices are slightly inflated with that expectation. However, be mindful of your bargaining; those extra few pesos likely mean a lot more to the vendor than to you.
11. Carry Small Bills and Coins
Although credit cards are increasingly common, Mexico remains predominantly a cash economy. Consequently, carry pesos in your pocket! The smaller the denomination, the better—despite the use of cash, change is often scarce. You may find yourself waiting for the vendor to break a bill or, worse, be turned away.
12. Avoid Potentially Risky Areas
With much media coverage about cartel violence in Mexico, safety is a common concern. Generally, violent crime is mainly cartel-on-cartel; tourists aren’t typically targets. Nonetheless, it’s always possible to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Therefore, avoid drugs (buying, using, or being around those partaking) and fringe neighborhoods. If traveling in cartel hotspots such as Sonora or Michoacán, return early, travel by day, and take toll roads.
13. Be Alert to Petty Theft
When tourists experience crime in Mexico, it’s typically petty theft. Like most places worldwide, it’s a fact of life. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like markets or city buses, where pickpockets tend to strike. Avoid displaying large sums of cash, and wearing clothes with deep or zippered pockets also helps. If your hotel room lacks a safe, secure your valuables in your luggage using a TSA lock—these are effective deterrents.
14. Don’t Drink the Water
It’s true what they say—don’t drink the water in Mexico or brush your teeth with it. While tap water is purified at the source, it can pick up contaminants while traveling through pipes. Instead, use bottled water. And don’t worry about ice at restaurants and bars; it’s typically made from purified water at commercial factories.
15. Indulge in Street Food
Eating street food—sizzling tacos, elote (grilled corn) in a cup, sweet and crunchy marquesitas (sweet crepes)—is a quintessential Mexican experience. Seek out stands with a crowd; they serve as a litmus test for safe-to-eat spots. However, take a hard pass on extras like mayo and cream; they may sit in the sun for hours, unrefrigerated, creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
16. Opt for Rideshares
Mexican taxi drivers are notorious for scamming tourists, inflating their rates, or rerouting passengers to gain commissions. When possible, opt for rideshares like Uber, which offer reliable service at rates often cheaper than taxis. If you must use a cab, agree on a price before getting in.
17. Remember Your Embassy
If you find yourself a victim of crime or in need of medical assistance or legal help, contact your embassy or consulate. Almost 90 countries, including the US and Canada, have representatives in Mexico to assist you with navigating issues abroad.
