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Is it safe to travel in Mexico?
Yes, most tourist areas of the country are very safe. Get information about specific destination is important though. If you follow local indications and take basic precautions as in any other country, you\\\\\\\'ll have no problem.
What language is spoken in Mexico?
The official language is Spanish, but indigenous languages are spoken in many regions. In highly touristic destinations, English is also commonly spoken.
What currency is used in Mexico?
Mexican pesos (MXN) are the only acceptable currency. Carrying at least some pesos for smaller and day to day expenses is important in nearly all locations. In bigger towns, and all cities and tourist areas, credit and debit cards will be accepted.
4. Do I need a visa to visit Mexico?
It depends on your country of origin. Citizens from many countries (USA, Canada, the European Union, Japan, South America, and others) will be presented with a digital tourist visa upon presentation of a passport in the airport or other ports of entry. This visa will be valid for up to 180 days. Visitors from other parts of the world may need to check with a consulate in their home country prior to arriving.
5. What is Mexico\\\\\\\'s climate like?
Mexico has a great climatic diversity. From deserts in the north to tropical jungles in the central and southern regions, visitors may pass through temperate and mountainous zones - and these may vary by season. Check the weather based on the region and season you\\\\\\\'re planning to travel.
6. Can I use my cell phone in Mexico?
Yes, but check roaming charges with your carrier prior to traveling. You may need to buy a local SIM card or use free WiFi available. This is often available in airports, plazas, cafes, and in public places in some cities and tourist areas.
7. Where can I find free WiFi in Mexico?
There are WiFi hotspots in many public plazas, community centers, libraries, airports and in many hotels or restaurants. Some larger cities (like Mexico City and Acapulco) have programs like "Internet for All" with broad free WiFi areas.
8. How can I get around within Mexico?
Mexico is a very big country. Fortunately, the transportation network is extensive and there are very few places you can\\\\\\\'t visit. International visitors are often surprised by the breadth and quality of long distance intercity buses. Domestic airlines also provide extensive service along popular routes. But some visitors will prefer to rely on car rentals and rail service is quickly growing to support some of the most important intercity routes. Within larger and medium sized cities, subway, bus, and combi (van) service is a priority for residents, and visitors too.
9. What transportation (Ride) apps work in Mexico?
This depends on where you\\\\\\\'re going. Drivers typically provide services through Uber, Didi, Cabify, InDriver and Beat, but not all of them in every city. Moovit works well in many cities for planning public transportation routes.
10. Is it possible to rent a car with a foreign license?
Yes, but only with a valid and current drivers license. Insurance against damages is recommended and many larger metro areas enforce traffic-control restrictions such as "Hoy No Circula" which will depend on the license plate numbers of the car you end up renting.
11. What do I need to enter Mexico as a tourist?
This depends on your country of origin. All visitors a required to present a valid passport, and a completed Visitor\\\\\\\'s Card (FMM). The FMM must be returned upon leaving the country. Visitors from some countries may need to pre-register for a visa prior to arrival. Those from Canada, the USA, Japan, the UK and the Schengen Area, and from member countries of the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Colombia and Peru), will be granted Tourist Visas upon presentation of a passport and the FMM.
12. How long can I stay in Mexico as a tourist?
Up to 180 days, however the exact duration is determined by immigration officers upon entry.
13. Is it easy to exchange money in Mexico?
Yes, exchange houses, and banks offer the service in most airports and in cities and tourist areas. Most visitors will find it more convenient and cheaper to simply withdraw money from automatic teller machines (ATM) with international cards.
14. Is the U.S. dollar accepted?
The practice is widely discouraged. In some tourist areas, businesses will accept foreign currency but exchange rates are less than favorable.
15. Do I need vaccinations to enter Mexico?
No mandatory vaccinations are required for most visitors. Being up to date with you basic vaccination schedule is highly recommended.
16. What do I do in case of a medical emergency?
Dial 911. All public and private hospitals are required to attended to visitors regardless of national origin. International travel insurance is recommended for all visitors.
17. What are the main tourist destinations in Mexico?
Among the most visited are Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Mexico City, Los Cabos, the state and coast of Oaxaca, Guadalajara, Merida, San Miguel de Allende, and Chiapas. But visitors increasingly head for areas of their own discovery, and using these pages, many more parts of the country are more welcoming than ever.
18. Can I visit archaeological sites without a guide?
Yes, many of the most popular are open to the public and without any tour groups or restrictions. Certified guides will often enrich the experience, including with local and contemporary insights. Some sites allow night visits or special tours, and many of the smaller and lesser-known sites are mostly visited by individuals and small groups. Importantly, you\\\\\\\'ll want to check local restrictions before climbing or collecting as many sites are potentially dangerous.
19. Can I drink alcohol in public places?
Drinking alcohol in public places is not allowed except during certain seasons or celebrations. In most parts of Mexico, alcohol can only be consumed in bars, restaurants, or during special events.
20. What typical dishes can\\\\\\\'t I miss?
The pages of VisitMexico are dedicated to presenting more of the Mexican national food scene and depending on the place you\\\\\\\'re intending to visit. The Mexican culinary tradition is recognized as an intangible part of the World Heritage, but as it depends on where you visit in Mexico.
Local customs and regulations
21. Should I tip in Mexico?
Yes, it is customary to tip between 10% and 15% of the cost of meals or drinks in restaurants, bars and at street stands or for similar food sales. A few coins are usually given to porters, cab drivers, and cleaning staff.
22. Is it common to haggle or bargain?
Depending on what you\\\\\\\'re purchasing, you may negotiate prices especially for larger purchases. In established stores with marked prices, it is not appropriate.
