Mexico Local Tips

Never hail a cab on the street – mugging in taxis is an issue in Mexico City. Only take cabs that you or your hotel call for in advance.

Although Mexico is generally safe, use common sense at all times – don’t walk on the beach alone at night, avoid empty city streets, and don’t wear flashy jewelry or valuables.

Don’t be afraid to indulge in authentic foods, but treat tap water (and raw fruits and veggies) like poison to avoid the upset stomach and diarrhea of “traveler’s disease.” Drink bottled water at all times.

Most of Mexico is a monolingual country – Spanish being the main language. In popular tourist areas like Mexico City, however, many people do speak a little English. Still, it’s a good idea to bring a Spanish-English dictionary.

Unless you’re planning on spending all of your time in an all-inclusive resort or in taxi-heavy Mexico City, you’ll need a car to get around. Stick to the main roads whenever possible.

Stick to the main roads whenever possible (back roads may contain potholes, giant rocks or livestock), but be aware that toll roads can be costly on long journeys. Carry your passport on you at all times.

Mexico’s currency is the peso, which is distinguished by the dollar sign. U.S. priced items are distinguished with the US$ symbol. In tourist locales and in the north of the country, the U.S. dollar is generally accepted.

Mexican dishes can be quite spicy. If you’re intimidated by the heat factor ask the waiter to recommend a mild dish or something without hot peppers.

Although public toilets are not common in Mexico, facilities can be found in fast-food restaurants, gas stations, and at tourist sites. A small fee may be charged.

The first colonial settlers to arrive were the Spanish in the 16th century. They built in the Mudejar style of Andalucia with central courtyards, wrought-iron detailing, and colorful tiles. Many of these historical buildings are still on display in colonial cities country-wide.

Similar to a sauna, Temazcal – a tradition started by the Aztecs – employs heat for healing. Participants sit in a small, round adobe structure around a pit filled with red-hot volcanic rocks. The experience is considered to be spiritually and physically renewing.

Some of Mexico’s best crafts can be found in the state of Oaxaca. Some of the specialties from the region are alebrije (whimsically painted wooden animals), exquisite rugs, and distinctively ribbed cotton bedspreads and tablecloths.

Tequila comes in five classes: white (unaged), gold (caramel-flavored), reposado (aged one-year), anejo (aged over a year), and extra anejo (aged three or more years). Learn more about the drink at the Jose Cuervo distillery in Tequila, Mexico (www.mundocuervo.com).