Whatever you want in a vacation, you will find it in Mexico. A vast country that includes everything from megacities to sleepy oceanside villages, as well as thousands of years of culture and history, it’s little wonder that so many Americans travel to Mexico. For many in the United States, Mexico offers a trip to a foreign country at a fraction of the price for traveling to more far-flung destinations, and Mexico delivers at every turn. However, like any foreign country, navigating a new culture can be tricky. The following advice will help ease any difficulties, allowing you and yours to enjoy a worry-free vacation.
Many common issues facing those traveling abroad can be easily avoided in Mexico; tipping culture is very similar to the United States, the electricity system is largely compatible and easily adaptable where it is not, and the comparable timezones eliminate extreme jet lag. The biggest issue will, of course, be language; those who do not speak Spanish will find many English-speakers, but it will still behoove anyone traveling south to spend some pre-trip preparation time on useful Spanish vocabulary. Likewise, remember that tap water and the ice made from it can make you sick if you’re not used to it, so choose bottled water and beverages, and feel free to ask restaurants if any tap water was used in the preparation of raw foods like salads.
Those who travel to Mexico to stay at a resort of any kind will likely find themselves in total luxury; others should be prepared to keep their safety in mind while vacationing. Many common vacationing safety tips apply: avoid taking drinks from strangers, lock your hotel room doors, and do not discuss personal details where strangers may overhear them. Taxis can be problematic, so consider asking hotels or restaurants to make arrangements rather than hailing a cab on the street. ATMs are likewise suspect; use machines located within businesses or exchange bureaus during the daytime in order to mitigate any risks.
