Whether you're traveling to Mexico for the first time, staying at an all-inclusive resort, or taking the beaten path. So know that if you are going to travel to Mexico: tips you need to know and places that you need to know!
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Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
This is one of the most frequent questions we receive when it comes to traveling to Mexico and the answer is simple: “-Yea, it's safe, but you always need to know where you're going 😉 ".
First, if you're staying at an all-inclusive resort, there's absolutely no reason to feel unsafe. Even when you go on a tour or take a taxi to the nearest town, you'll be fine.
A good rule of thumb to follow is if you wouldn't do something at home that could get you into trouble, don't do it in Mexico either.
As for what to expect in Mexico, you might hear a lot about drugs, cartels and gangs, but the reality is this country needs tourism and it needs tourists to feel safe.
As long as you're not involved in any dangerous or questionable activities, you'll be fine.
If you're still a little anxious about traveling Mexico, you can always invest in personal items to keep yourself safe and at ease, like a anti-theft bag.
In fact, most places tourists go to in Mexico are safer than many cities in the US and Canada.
What do you need to enter Mexico?
Any visitor entering Mexico needs a valid passport that cannot expire within 6 months of the date of arrival in Mexico.
You don't need to apply for a visa before you arrive, you get one (for a leisure stay of up to 180 days) on arrival at immigration.
When you arrive in Mexico, immigration will provide you with a visa receipt that you keep with your passport. Don't miss it! You will need to return it when you leave the country.
Tip: many hotels will want to take a photocopy of your passport upon check-in for security reasons, so you leave your voucher near your passport, but not in it, as you might lose it.
Using pesos or dollars in Mexico
Many sectors in Mexico operate in the informal economy, and especially in the tourism and hospitality industry. Cash is king here.
The most important thing you need to know when traveling to Mexico is to pay in the local currency which is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Yes, even if you are staying at an all inclusive resort, you must tip in pesos.
When employees receive US dollars, they have to go to the bank to exchange their tips for pesos (it's just another hassle for them).
How much to tip in Mexico
Tipping in Mexico is pretty simple, 10 to 15 percent of your bill is standard. At a restaurant, we calculate the percentage of tip we'd like to pay and then round it up to the nearest bill to make it quick and easy.
And if you're at an all-inclusive resort, it's typical to tip the bartenders or poolside waiters around 10 pesos per drink.
Or, hand them a 100 peso bill and that will keep the drinks flowing for a while! Of course, you're always welcome to give more than that.
Taste the local food of Mexico
Be adventurous! Street taco stands are everywhere, they are totally fine for eating, partying and doing like the locals.
There is always plenty of street food at the open-air or night markets, and these are also safe to eat.
If you're a little worried, my best tip would be to choose one that is busy/has a schedule, that way you'll know the food is fresh!
In addition to tacos, tortillas are served at almost every meal in Mexico! Typically corn tortillas are the most popular choice and will be the default tortilla that is served.
If you prefer flour tortillas, ask for tortilla de harina.
Places you must visit in Mexico
Below is a list of the most popular places for tourists:
Tulum – Mexico
Home to Mexico's most famous beachfront Mayan ruins, Tulum attracts history buffs and water lovers alike.
Positioned along a coastal stretch of Riviera Maya, the area offers countless lodging options, from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats and all-inclusive resorts.
This means that all travelers can book the vacation that suits them best. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on the beach, exploring ancient ruins and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatan Peninsula.
Playa del Carmen – Mexico
Playa del Carmen has an exciting food scene, with restaurants serving everything from delicious tacos and tostadas to expertly prepared sushi and seafood, as well as an even trendier bar culture.
In addition, this Riviera Maya destination attracts tourists with its soft sand covering its beaches and its breathtaking views of the coast.
Visitors can also cycle to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit up one of the numerous nearby golf courses.
All-inclusive resorts, vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in this region as well, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budget.
Zihuatabejo – Mexico
Located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexican experience filled with brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes.
Here, shopaholics can pick up local handicrafts (think: pottery and wood carvings), and foodies can tuck into fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach.
THE Playa La Ropa away from the city is the main beach and stands out for its clean and familiar atmosphere.
Offshore, divers and snorkelers can choose from more than 30 dive sites teeming with marine life.
Cozumel – Mexico
This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships.
Travelers love this destination's bright blue water and laid-back beaches, plus the abundance of water sports.
Numerous vendors and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling equipment. Though you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book.
Cozumel is also a peaceful place to learn about Mayan culture. visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.
Ixtapa – Mexico
Ixtapa's curved coastline is lined with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife, giving the Pacific Coast city (located north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe.
Playa El Palmar, the main beach, is often better for sunset walks and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the rough waves.
Still, the warm, clear, and generally gentle waters farther offshore make Ixtapa an excellent destination for first-time scuba diving enthusiasts.
Anyone interested in the region's history should also explore the Costa Grande Archaeological Museum, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique.
Cancun – Mexico
Sand, nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts, and cheap flights make Cancun a perfect spot for spring break and tourists looking for a beach that's easy to get around.
But the city is also close to lush, tranquil jungles, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers.
Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and inexpensive street food served from various carts downtown.
Visiting in autumn or winter will ensure you see this city in its quietest light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.
Mexico City – Mexico
Mexico's most populous city is rich in history and culture.
Mexico City has delicious cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at very low costs – but if you want to splurge, you'll find an array of high-end shops on Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood.
Must-see cultural attractions include the Palace of Fine Arts and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
And if you want to eat around town, consider signing up for a food tour.
Oaxaca – Mexico
Travel to this southern Mexican city for a full immersion in Mexican culture.
Perched more than 1,500 meters above sea level and surrounded by the Sierra Madre del Sur mountain range, Oaxaca is the place to experience native customs.
In Oaxaca, travelers can visit vibrant markets and enjoy delicious Mexican food.
Notable cultural sites include the preserved ruins of Monte Alban and the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán church, which dates back to the 16th century and was used for a time as a military barracks.
Puerto Vallarta – Mexico
Puerto Vallarta attracts tourists looking for excellent beaches and authentic regional cuisine.
Visitors can lounge along the shores, take a whale watching tour, or even partake in tequila tastings.
In addition, the city's picturesque setting along the Bay of Banderas (on the west coast of Mexico) and iconic landmarks such as Los Arcos Marine National Park and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe set it apart from other crowded tourist hubs – and provide wonderful photos.
Cabo San Lucas – Mexico
Cabo San Lucas is a party destination on the Baja Peninsula, but the raucous city also boasts some of Mexico's most luxurious hotels and top-notch golf courses.
Cabo San Lucas's beaches are beautiful, but they're mostly for sunbathing; only selected stretches of sand are safe for swimming because of the ocean floor's steep slopes and strong undercurrents.
Stay in nearby San José del Cabo if you're looking for a break from Cabo's busy beaches and raucous nightclubs.
Best time to travel to Mexico
The best time to visit Mexico is from December to April – during these months you can enjoy the state of the cacti while it's warm and dry.
If you are looking for a quieter period to avoid the crowds, May and June will be perfect for you 🙂
mexico map
Traveling to Mexico: tips you need to know
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