I travelled into Mexico by bus from Belize to Quintana Roo where I visited the Bacalar Lagoon. I then headed to Mexico City where I spent majority of my time. In Mexico City I visited many museums and went on day trips around the country, Mexico City is a good base to explore the country. I would love to one day go back to explore more of Mexico.
Best Time to Visit
Mexico’s weather varies by season and region. The best time to visit is between December and April, when there is virtually no rain. While the wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. The Caribbean coast can be affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Things to do and see
- Tulum is a town on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, with pristine beaches. Tulum’s National Park is a Mayan archaeological site with pyramid shaped temples that overlooks the sea and the jungle.
- Chichén Itzá is a popular Mayan ruin site in Yucatan. One of the biggest sites in Mexico.
- Pyramids of Teotihuacan are in the northeast of Mexico, the most popular of the Mayan pyramids is the pyramid of the Sun.
- Cancun Underwater Museum is a collection of sculptures under the sea. The Layout of the human sculptures are divided into two galleries. One called the Salon Manchones which is eight meters deep and suitable for divers and snorkelers and the Salon Nizuc is 4 meters deep and only suitable for snorkelling.
Food
Mexico is well known for its taco a corn or wheat tortilla which is rolled around a filling. Popular fillings are beef, chicken, pork and seafood. In Mexico the food varies from region to region; Most meals are served with tortillas, fried beans and a range of salsas. Mexican food is influenced by Spanish, African, Aztec dishes that have remained staples throughout the decades.
Transportation
Air: There are direct flights from London to Mexico.
Roads: The roads in Mexico are well maintained and paved.
Rail: Amtrak provides railway connection to different points along the Mexican border.
Taxi: The authorised taxis in Mexico operate in the airport and major bus stations. You purchase a ticket which number is recorded with your driver’s identification. Your diver can be traced through this number. Authorised taxis cost more then taxis you can call on the street, but they are a lot safer.
Ferry: There are several ferry routes operating in Mexico.
Bus: Coaches and buses link the whole country. Bus terminals in the big cities provide information on the timetables and fares.
Visa
Visas are not required by all EU, U.S, Canadian and Australian nationals for stays up to 180days.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is also widely spoken.
Money
The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN) Credit cards are accepted in most places but having a supply of local currency in more rural areas is a good idea. Pesos can be bought in the UK. Alternatively, US dollars are the easiest currency to change once in Mexico.
Tipping
It is common to tip the service you receive whilst eating in a restaurant. A tip of around 10% is acceptable for good service.
Social etiquette
Ask permission before taking photographs.
Adaptor
There are two plugs associated with Mexico.
Wifi
High speed internet is available in all major cities.
Ruth’s Lonely Planet 