This south-of-the-border nation has a little bit of something for everyone, whether you're in search of pristine beaches rimming turquoise waters, Mayan or Aztec ruins, coastal bluffs accented with succulents and cacti, or colonial towns bursting with arts and crafts.
What kind of Mexico trip is right for you? With direct flights from all major airport hubs— including Dallas, Miami, New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles — it’s easier than ever to go to Mexico.
Do You Need a Visa to Go to Mexico?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Mexico on a short stay such as a vacation or business trip. Upon entry — and acceptance of a valid U.S. passport that has not expired — you’ll be asked to fill out a form called FMM (or Forma Migratoria Multiple). This form allows you to be in the country for up to 180 days.
Do You Need a Passport to Go to Mexico?
Since 2007, U.S. citizens are required to show a valid, non-expired passport when visiting Mexico. However, as with Canada, U.S. citizens can also enter and exit the country with only a U.S. passport card. This card first became available in 2008 and costs significantly less than a passport ($65 for first-time applicants, $30 renewal). But, remember: this card only allows visits to Canada and Mexico. To explore the world, you’ll need a U.S. passport ($145 for first-time applicants, $110 renewal). Read more about passport fees and applications on the U.S. Department of State’s website.
Do You Need a Power Adapter in Mexico?
All hotels and resorts in Mexico’s Los Cabos, Riviera Maya, Mazatlán, Riviera Nayarit, Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, and Puerto Vallarta areas — as well as other major cities — use the same power outlets as in the U.S. This means you do not need to bring a power adapter. In more rural areas with older electricity, you may find two-prong outlets (just like we have in the U.S.), so it wouldn't hurt to pack a 3-to-2 prong adaptor so you can plug in your laptop and/or charge your phone.
Planning Your Trip to Cancun
If you're visiting Cancun, we recommend booking a resort that is either in a gated community or in the Riviera Maya, where there is tons of tourist-friendly activities (such as Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue, the fishing village of Akumal, Isla Mujeres or Cozumel, or wellness-centric Tulum). If you've chosen to stay in a popular tourist zone, you will most likely stay in an all-inclusive resort. Also, be aware that hurricane season is between June and November — and the months of July, August, and September can be quite hot and humid.
Things to Do in Cancun
From swimming in a cenote to exploring the ruins of Chichén Itzá, to sampling locally made tequila, Cancun offers plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages. Eco parks like Xcaret are great if your trip is short, but we recommend spending some more time soaking up the sun on the beach, learning more about the region's history, and savoring the local cuisine. Mexican food here is a departure from Tex-Mex cuisine often found in the U.S. Instead, you’ll find spicy, smoky mole sauces, as well as freshly caught seafood straight from the Caribbean Sea.
