Mexico Travel

Mexico is a nation that almost everyone should attempt to visit at some point in their life. Full of fun, excitement, beaches, and fiestas, Mexico has become a leading tourist destination.

Just as you should do in traveling to any other country, you would also be wise to learn the ins and outs of traveling to Mexico prior to your departure to enjoy the best experience possible.

A Little Language Goes a Long Way

First, to the degree that is practical, learn some of the basic language for Mexico - at least some short, practical phrases, and typical questions. Spanish is the primary spoken language.

Also, it would be to your benefit to bring along an English/Spanish dictionary just in case. Though the dictionary will identify you as a tourist, it would be better to swallow your pride and use it rather than artificially restrict your ability to communicate.

Getting Your Paperwork in Order

Come prepared with your passport because you may be asked for it frequently. You also need a tourist card, which basically serves as your permission to visit Mexico as well as provides proof of citizenship for your native country. You will have to provide all this when landing or driving through customs.

Carrying Restrictions

When traveling to Mexico, there are certain items that will not be permitted into the country. For example, you cannot carry more than three liters of alcohol and 50 cigars. Cigarettes are also limited to 400 as long as you are over 18 years old. You may only bring one camera as well; if you still use rolls of film rather than a digital camera, you can only bring 12 rolls of film with you.

Money Options

The currency in Mexico is the Peso; most stores and restaurants only accept those. If you do not want to exchange your money upon arrival, you can use your credit cards - but you will need cash in some of the smaller stores and restaurants. Traveler's checks are great to have on hand as well because in many places in Mexico, theft is a significant concern.

Health Considerations

Another important tip to bear in mind when traveling to Mexico is that it is vital that you not drink the water. Either drink bottled water or boil your water if needed. The tap water, even though many claim to have a water purifying system, is full of bacteria that many tourists from other countries can't process internally very well.

Keep your distance from fruits and vegetables as well that have not been washed in a purifying system and cooked thoroughly. You definitely do not want to become sick on vacation simply because of the water you drink or food you eat.

Mexico is a safe destination if you head for the popular spots. Stay away from the outskirts where it can be rather dangerous. If you follow these tips and learn from the locals where to go and avoid, you should have a very enjoyable trip that will elicit happy memories rather than missed opportunities from lack of preparation or foreknowledge.

Cancun, South East Mexico. A tropical place of beauty, history and relaxation. Located on the Yucatan Peninsular in the state of Quintana Roo, Cancun is very different to the rest of Mexico and is split into two main areas - Zona Hotelera (an 18km long island) and Ciudad Cancun (the mainland.) Both of these areas are connected together with a causeway, making access very easy via taxi, bus or even just walking.

Zona Hotelera faces the Carribean on one side and has a lagoon (the Laguna Nichupte) on the other. Most of the people live on the mainland (Ciudad Cancun) which is also where the hotels and resorts are located. This has meant that the Zona Hotelera hotel is quite free from mass commercialization in many respects. Cancun also offers some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world, which includes the fifth largest coral reef in the world (The Belize Reef) that has black coral (coral lovers will know that black coral is quite rare.)

There are also plenty of water sports for the person who enjoys a vacation with a bit more action. The selection of excellent resort hotels, classy restaurants, local pubs and bars and a large night-life with clubs makes for a great holiday spot for all kinds of people. Shoppers will enjoy the shopping facilities (five large shopping centers, or street shopping.) For those who want to relax a little more, Cancun's lagoons, sandbars, mangrove swamps, cenotes (waterholes) and beautiful beaches are what you would be looking for.

But you could probably get a lot of the above (besides the coral reefs etc.) at most other places in the world. One of the things that sets Cancun apart are the Maya sites and ruins nearby. These ruins are fascinating in every respect - full of mystery and history. Coba nearby boasts of the largest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the ancient sites of Uxmal, Ruta Puuc and Merida are highly recommended. All of the ancient sites are very well kept, and will pique even the interest of those that don't enjoy history.

Cancun is also a great place for a vacation in the sense that it can cater very well for all kinds of budgets. Although the mainland has many top class hotels, there are also smaller resorts or places where you can stay if you are on a cheaper budget. Transport is easy in and around the city as well, and there are many tourism operations offering you transport to the ancient sites or several islands which lie offshore nearby.

The only drawback to Cancun, as with a lot of popular tourist destinations, is that if you're the kind of person who wants serious quiet and relaxation, Cancun can be quite busy with its 'party' sort of atmosphere. But if you're looking for a place where there is lots to do, see and enjoy, Cancun will be a very good choice.

Duende Tours will offers you a tour of the Tulum, Mexico ruins as part of optional package that also includes a trip to Chichen Itza, before or after your Mayan jungle Excursion. Below is synopsis of what the Tulum Ruins are like and what you can expect from the site.

The town of Tulum, Mexico has an aura of tranquility and beauty. The town is situated on the coast of the Riviera Maya South of Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, near the Guatemala-Belize Border. The town's primary industry, like that of its sister cities in the Riviera Maya is tourism. All long the beaches one can find eco-lodges and cabanas spread amongst the pristine fine white sand. Within the quaint town, small international and domestic palapa-style restaurants line the main road. But by far the main attraction to Tulum is its fantastic Ruins.

The Tulum ruins epitomize the town's essence and beauty. Established on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean, these small but magical ruins yield awes and spectacular scenes. Although not it's original name, Tulum means "wall" in Quintana Roo Maya. According to historians the Tulum ruins were formally named, "Zama", which means, "to Dawn". Tulum was the name given to the location upon its rediscovery by Stephens and Catherwood before the Caste War in 1847.

According to regional historians, Tulum was a major port for the Maya's vast extensive trade network. Land and maritime trade routes met in Tulum, Mexico. Artifacts found in the Tulum ruins ranged in origin from central Mexico to Central America, confirming the theory of expansive trade capacity. It is theorized that the city lay in ruins after the decimation of its native population by the diseases brought over from Europe. Visiting the Tulum ruins today, tourists can still find relatively well-preserved structures on the ancient pre-hispanic site. These political and religious structures are those that best survived the elements after their abandonment. Remnants of other minor buildings lay scattered.

Set in the eastern section of the Yucatan Peninsula and bathed on two sides by the crystal clear turquoise water of the Caribbean lies the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. There situated south of Cancun and stretching down the peninsula coastline is Riviera Maya. Due to its lush jungle, landscape, shoreline and history, Riviera Maya has a variety of attractions to entice travelers. A vacationer in Riviera Maya has a rich selection of either relaxing or stimulating activities to embark on.

Water sports Water activities in Riviera Maya run the spectrum from the quiet tranquility of secluded white sandy beaches to thrilling scuba diving. Those who are into adventure and scuba diving will be amazed exploring the breathtaking Great Maya coral reef. Formed due to the warm transparent water, it is the second largest barrier reef system in the world. The reef is home for varieties of corals. It is teeming with numerous kinds or reef-dwelling fish. Not to mention the colorful marine life that can also be found there, such as, sponges, sea anemones, sea cucumbers, starfish, sea urchins, lobsters and crabs. Divers and those who like to snorkel will also be impressed investigating the subterranean freshwater rivers with exceptional cavern structures. The ardent fisherman will take great pleasure in the sport fishing that is available here.

Golf

The area boasts a choice of professionally designed courses for enjoying a challenging round of golf. Along with the magnificent landscape, there are driving ranges, putting greens and club houses. Quality golf merchandise can be purchased in the pro shops.

Spas

During the day, one can visit a spa for ultimate relaxation. Each spa provides its own forms of service from various types of exercises and massage methods, such as Yoga, Shiatsu, Reflexology, hot stone massage and scalp massage to soothing body scrubs and wrap treatments. In addition, you can awaken your senses with aromatherapy baths or indulge in more traditional therapies, like facials, hair treatments, manicures and pedicures.

Natural Parks and Archaeological Sites

While vacationing in Riviera Maya, one ought to visit at least one ecological reserve in the area. The Sian Ka'an biosphere affords the visitor an astonishing view of nature at her finest. It is here that many diverse species of flora and fauna converge into a nature lover's delight. Xcaret EcoPark is both an ecological and archaeological park. Sightseeing is a wonderful cultural indulgence at the ancient Mayan ruins. While most structures are Mayan in origin, there is a Catholic church erected by the Spaniards. Some of the exhibits that can be seen at Xcaret are the Orchid Greenhouse, Butterfly Pavilion, Manatee Lagoon, the Mushroom Farm and Coral Reef Aquarium. You can even swim with bottle-nose dolphins.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is the major town in the region and runs along the beach; offering tourists prominent hotels. The pulse of the city is Fifth Avenue (Quinto Avenida) which is the main street and caters to pedestrians as cars are not allowed. While strolling down Fifth Avenue, you are likely to see artists, musical groups and other unusual sights. Playa del Carmen affords the avid shopper a wide-ranging choice from delightful browsing in boutiques for colorful local handicrafts to picking up the latest trends in European fashions. Most Riviera Maya's restaurants are located in Playa del Carmen and of these the greater part is located on or near Fifth Avenue. You are able to dine on authentic Mexican cuisine, American style or International menus like Italian. After a fun-filled day about town, tourists can partake of intense partying and dancing throughout the night in the bars and night clubs.

Glorious Riviera Maya is a vacation destination that appeals to every taste and desire which is sure to produce warm memories that are able to endure a lifetime. For an outstanding tropical getaway, it is hard to find a better resort location for your next vacation.

In the small village of Chimayo, New Mexico, there is a small, dark sanctuary that each year draws thousands of visitors. The dirt found there is believed to have special healing powers, and many traverse the country hoping to be cured of whatever disease is plaguing them. After visiting the sanctuary, many head to the Rancho de Chimayo, where some of the best authentic Southwestern food is served. From there, they head to the corner of U.S. 84/285 and Route 503, where the high road begins. This famous roadway runs northeast from Sante Fe, toward Penasco, and then on to Taos. This amazingly beautiful drive is a journey that is hard to describe in words; as you leave behind the tourists that abound in Chimayo, the road lies before you, an open book, ready to be written.

A little ways down the road from Chimayo, signs direct you to the 700 year old Native American village of Nambe Pueblo, and the Nambe Falls. This region is full of functioning Native American villages that take visitors back to a different time, and give them a glimpse into the calm, spiritual, natural way of life the Native Americans enjoy. This farming community has recently seen a comeback in traditional arts, particularly pottery. For those who wish, they may tour the pueblo, which is open daily, or head directly to the Nambe Falls, just 3 miles up the road. The falls are open daily through October.

Leaving the Nambe Pueblo behind, the magic of the High Road begins. This twisting desert-mountain path takes you from one dusty town to the next. The scenery is amazing. Looking out from the side of the mountains, there are overlooks where you can see for miles. As you near towns and villages, many seem to be empty, when in fact they hold hidden gems in the way of fine art. Cordova and Truchas are two such towns that deserve a moment of your time for their galleries and studios. The artists are friendly, and happy to take the time to show you around their studio, and discuss how the natural beauty that surrounds them affects not only their artwork, but their outlook on life.

The High Road from Santa Fe to Taos is the perfect place to rediscover yourself, and rediscover the beauty of the southwest. Whether you are in it for the man made art found along the way, or the natural wonders of the desert-mountain landscape encompassing the roadway, this peaceful drive, spiritual in its own right, is sure to be an unforgettable journey.

In case of emergency:
In Mexico emergency services are reached by 060 instead of 911.  You should either commit this to memory or at least write it in an easy place to find.  In addition, be sure to keep your Mexico Insurance company's phone number in an easily accessible place.

In the event of and accident:
If your are involved in an auto accident always call the police and your Mexico auto insurance company right away.  If you wait until you get back home to call your insurance company, you claim will be denied.

Road side assistance from the Green Angels
The ángeles verdes or Green Angels are a bilingual roadside assistance service available for free to anyone with vehicle trouble. The Green Angels regularly patrol the Mexican roadways for motorists needing help.

A telephone card is required:
Nearly all Mexico pay phones will not accept change, so a prepaid phone card is absolutely mandatory.  In the event you need to call your Mexico insurance company, you will be glad you have it.

Have a full tank of fuel at all times:
If you fuel up at every gas station you won't have to worry about running out of gas if you get lost. The main thing to remember if you do run out of fuel is Don't Panic.  If you do run out of fuel, just ask the locals for help.  Remember to always carry pesos.  Mexico's gasoline monopoly, Pemex, usually only accepts payment in cash.

Be on the lookout for Speed Bumps:
Topes or speed bumps are practically everywhere in Mexico. It's not uncommon to find unmarked speed bumps right on the freeway.  While some of the road indicators are simple vibration pads, others are large speed bumps which will amount a launch pad if taken at full highway speeds.

Avoid driving through town:
When possible take the bypass road around town instead of trying to go directly though it.  Many of the city streets in Mexico were designed for burro traffic not for an SUV or RV!

Limit night driving.
Night time driving in Mexico can be dangerous.  Be on the lookout for slow moving vehicles and vehicles with improperly working tail lights.

Provide your itinerary to the State Department:
In the event of an emergency, the State Department will be able to reach you if you file your itinerary with them.  Though not mandatory, filing your itinerary with the State Department is free and easy. The United States consular office will be able to help you with financial, legal and medical difficulties.

Leave a your itinerary with a friend:
You should leave a copy of your passport, itinerary and Mexico insurance with someone back home.  If you have trouble, at least you will have the benefit of having an advocate back home.

Get an FM-T (tourist card):
When traveling over 30 kilometers into Mexico or for more than 72 hours, you must buy a tourist card for your stay.  Cards may be purchased at a Mexico tourism office, Mexico border or any airport and consulate office.

Purchase Mexico insurance:
It is illegal to drive in Mexico without Mexico insurance.  Since Mexico does not recognize any insurance, your US or Canada insurance is invalid.  If you are unable to prove financial responsibility you may be imprisoned.  Don't wait until you get to the border to buy the insurance you need, you will always find the best deal when you shop online before your trip.

For many, crossing the southern border of the United States heading into Tijuana, Mexico, is only the beginning of their journey through the Baja Peninsula. Traveling from Baja Norte to Baja Sur on Baja Highway 1 is an exciting trip enjoyed by people of all generations. The traditional road trip takes some unconventional turns as drivers set out across the rugged landscape of the Baja coast. The road conditions have improved greatly in recent years, although the highway is still very narrow. The off roads that lead adventurers to the beach and the inland areas are comprised of rock, sand, and gravel, making for a bumpy ride. There is something special about this stretch of highway in Mexico; it is a rite of passage for many young ones and a cherished mark of adolescence for their parents.

Setting out down Baja Highway 1 requires a number of preparations. Drivers are advised to let some air out of their tires, especially if they plan on doing any off road excursions. Sports Utility Vehicles are highly recommended, although regular cars can traverse the highway as well. It is also important for those who are planning on doing adventurous expeditions into uncharted territories that they pack the necessary supplies: water, food, spare tires, extra fuel, rope, tools, a flashlight, jumper cables, and of course, lots of patience and common sense. In this stretch of Mexico there are fewer gas stations than off most highways in the States; therefore, it is important that cars remember to fuel up.

The coastal areas are a popular attraction for many young surfers. The Baja Malibu is one of the most surf-rich stretches of shore in the world. Surfers from all over the world travel here to experience the waves, in addition to the atmosphere that Baja provides. There are several hostels and the populated cities in the Peninsula offer 5 star hotels with the most luxurious of amenities, however, most road trippers prefer to bring their own tents and sleep out on the beach. Diving in the reefs off the Baja coast is also a very popular thing to do, and in most cities you can find the gear to do so.

There is something special about traveling the dramatic and varied coastline of Baja, Mexico. With the right group of friends, a trip like this makes a mark so identifiable on your soul, that it is impossible to forget. Sitting around the campfire on the beach, eating tacos and tamales and drinking cerveza, one has the opportunity to reflect on what has brought them there. Taking in the skyline, the shore, and the sand, it's as if Baja wipes away the outside world, and envelopes you with its rugged charm.