Hello, My birds!! Cateria this side, Hope you are doing well. Guys, By any chance are you planning to visit Mexico?
If you are then firstly let me appreciate you for taking one more awesome decision. Okay so now I am telling you, I have been living in Mexico for more than four years. And I love this colourful, historical and vibrant cultural place so much. Mexico offers you a lot of destinations to fall in love with but in this ultimate comprehension travel guide to Mexico, we will discuss everything that you should know before coming here.
Please allow me to split some facts before starting. There are many amazing places in Mexico but the best part is not even a single place that exists here is overhyped. Every single place in Mexico has its value and is worth its fame. So don’t even dare to judge your decision. Now look at a table of contents that is exactly according to your demands. At least, I try to cover all your faqs.
Table of Contents
Visas And Immigration Requirements For Mexico
- The good thing is Visas are not necessary for countries like the UK, USA and Australia. It’s free for 90-day visits.
- You just need to complete the MMF form.
- One thing you must have is a valid passport to get into Mexico you may need it at the airport.
Cheap Flights To Mexico In 2024 For Backpackers
Your tour on a budget for 2024 is possible now. Yes, you even get affordable flights to Mexico in 2024. You just need to consider the right time and right platform to book your flights to Mexico. Some of the best platforms for booking cheap flights are given below:
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Flights
- https://www.booking.com/
Best Time To Visit Mexico
Mexico has something according to every season. However, it looks pretty cool whenever you visit it. But some on and off periods are mentioned below:
Dry season
The on-season is also known as the dry season due to its weather. It starts from November to April. Most tourists prefer this weather because they love to explore Mexico in sunny weather.
Wet season
From October to November and May to July are considered wet season in Mexico. It is also off-season for Tourists. But Budget Travelers consider these times to Explore Mexico and enjoy it a lot.
Best Time To Visit Mexico According To Its Festivals
Mexico is also very famous for festivals all over the world. During its festive seasons, the rate of all commodities doubles here. Some pride days in Mexico are mentioned below:
1. el Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead):
The Day of the Dead is Mexico’s greatest and most colourful festival. It is celebrated on the 1st and 2nd of November every year.
At this festival, the People of Mexico wear colourful fancy heavy dresses and apply paint on different parts of the body as decoration. And the streets are decorated with paper flowers. Many people represent their traditional dance performances therefore this event has significant value all over the world.
2. ¡La Guelaguetza! (Guelaguetza):
It is a traditional dance festival held in Mexico every year. The Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca, Mexico, is scheduled for July 22 and July 29 2024. This festival, also known as “Lunes del Cerro” or “Mondays on the Hill,”. The main event occurs at Guelaguetza Auditorium on The hill of Fortin. There are two dance performances one in the morning and one in the evening. Besides, dance performances there are parades performed by locals and the market has a lot of stuff to offer. Many tourists come to Mexico just to attend this event.
Getting Around In Mexico
You can get a lot of options for getting around in Mexico as per your priority. Some convenient and reliable options are given below:
- For travelling in nearby cities you can use buses they are very convenient and They also have a variety of classes.
- And for distant cities of Mexico, you can also buy an air ticket because most Mexican cities have their own airport. And these airports provide you with a very sustainable journey. You can get the Best flight services in Mexico from these sites. Check reasonable prices from there:
- 1. https://www.kayak.com/
- 2. https://www.cheapoair.com/
- To get around in Mexico City you can use the metro, taxis, rental cars, rental motorcycles etc. Best booking vehicle services are provided by these platforms:
- I personally, prefer Didi for travel nearby just like Uber.
Currency Exchange|| Using Credit Cards In Mexico (fees and best practices):
The currency that is used in Mexico is the Peso. You may have the option to pay with USD in some tourist areas but it isn’t a better deal. You should pay in Pesos It’s a reliable way.
Options for currency exchange in Mexico
- Currency exchange in Mexico through banks. It is a very convenient way and you will get a good price for your USD. These banks have the best services.
- Currency exchange in Mexico by Kiosks. This may take less time, but it has a low value for USD compared to bank services.
- Currency exchange through hotels. Hotels and resorts all over Mexico also have currency exchange services. But they have very low rates to offer as compared to banks and kiosks.
Using credit cards in Mexico
- Always inform your bank before coming to an international trip. So you can avoid the difficulty you have to face by blocking your card.
- The deduction fee on your every transaction is 1 to 3 % of the total.
How To Manage The Budget In Mexico
As I say it is possible to do a tour of Mexico without breaking the bank. You just need to consider the right time to visit Mexico. Tips for saving money in Mexico tour:
- Firstly you should travel in the off-season which starts from April to June and in this season you will get discounts on everything.
- Always book your flight from Booking.com to get a reasonable price.
- Avoid luxury beach clubs and prefer spending time on free beaches with real beauty.
- Only hire a reasonable tour guide otherwise, research on social media and explore Mexico by yourself.
- Using local transportation to get around it is too convenient.
- Stay downtown it rings safe and helps you to remain within budget.
- Prefer eating from local carts cooking cooked food by yourself helps you to remain healthy and also save money.
- Shop only from local communities it may help improve their living and a good way to support an economy. You can also bargain here and keep yourself on your budget.
How to stay safe in Mexico?
Safety depends upon your actions. I didn’t find even a single that is completely safe for everyone. So please avoid to manipulated by social media fake news. And appreciate the organic beauty of any place where you are and where you live at any time by chance. Here are some important safety tactics that you should be aware of in your tour:
- Always be aware of your surroundings. So you can absorb any unusual activity that happens around you. By this, you can keep yourself safe and active.
- Always use your atm card in a secure atm that has guards outside.
- If you are a backpacker or solo traveller stay downtown for safety purposes.
- Set a curfew for yourself at night when you are not in your Country.
- Using taxis at night in Mexico is secure for night travellers.
- And always alert in public for pocket thefts.
- Eat and do a party at sustainable places.
Learn Basic Spanish For Travel To Mexico: Free Resources:
Here are some basic Spanish phrases, you should know before a visit to Mexico. Give them a check once:
Spanish words | English pronunciation | English meaning |
Hola | oh-lah | Hello |
Adiós | ah-dee-ohs | Goodbye |
Por favor | Por favor | Por favor |
Gracias | grah-see-ahs | Thank you |
Sí | see | Yes |
No | noh | No |
Buenos días | bweh-nohs dee-ahs | Good morning |
Buenas noches | bweh-nahs noh-chays | Good night |
Lo siento | loh see-ehn-toh | I’m sorry |
¿Cuánto cuesta? | kwahn-toh kwehs-tah | How much does it cost? |
¿Cómo estás? | koh-moh ehs-tahs | How are you? |
Estoy bien | es-toy byehn | I am good |
Mexico Travel Insurance What To Consider
You should buy travel insurance before coming to Mexico to protect yourself from unexpected events and emergencies. These are the factors that must be included in this insurance.
- Medical Coverage
- Trip cancellation and interruption
- Renting car coverages
- Baggage and personal belongings
- Accidental death
- Choose a reputed Travel insurance center
Some Best And Most Reputable Mexican Travel Insurance Centers In 2024:
Some best and reputable travel insurance companies are given below:
- https://www.marketwatch.com/guides/travel-insurance/mexico/
- https://www.bestmoney.com/travel-insurance/compare-travel-insurance
- https://www.usnews.com/insurance/travel/mexico-travel-insurance
Day of The Dead Celebrations In Mexico: A Cultural Guide
The Day of the Dead, or “Día de los Muertos,” is a vibrant, deep and meaningful celebration in Mexico. My blog explores the history, traditions, and festivities surrounding this unique holiday.
History and Significance
The Day of the Dead dates back to pre-Hispanic civilizations such as the Aztecs, who believed that death was a natural phase in life’s continuum. They honoured their deceased loved ones with rituals and offerings. When Spanish colonizers arrived, these traditions blended with Catholic practices, creating the modern Día de los Muertos celebrated today.
When and Where
The celebrations occur on November 1st and 2nd, coinciding with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. November 1st is dedicated to children and infants, known as “Día de los Inocentes” or “Día de los Angelitos,” while November 2nd refers to adults.
Major celebrations take place across Mexico, with notable festivities in:
– Mexico City: is known for its grand parades and the Festival of Life and Death.
– Oaxaca: Renowned for its traditional altars and cemetery vigils.
– Michoacán (Pátzcuaro): Famous for its picturesque lake and the island of Janitzio, where indigenous Purepecha communities hold traditional ceremonies.
Traditions and Symbols
Altars (Ofrendas): Families create elaborate altars at home and in cemeteries to honour their deceased relatives. These altars include photographs, mementoes, and favourite foods and drinks of the departed.
Marigolds (Cempasúchil): The bright orange marigold flowers are believed to guide spirits to their altars with their vibrant colour and strong scent.
Sugar Skulls (Calaveras): These decorative skulls, often inscribed with the names of the deceased, are placed on altars and given as gifts.
La Catrina: A satirical skeleton figure dressed in fancy clothes, La Catrina was created by artist José Guadalupe Posada and has become an iconic symbol of the holiday.
Pan de Muerto: A special sweet bread, often decorated with bone-shaped phalanges, is traditionally eaten and placed on altars.
Cemetery Visits: Families visit cemeteries to clean and decorate graves, often spending the night in vigil, sharing stories, food, and music.
Celebratory Events
– Parades and Festivals:
Cities like Mexico City host large parades featuring colourful costumes, giant skeleton puppets, and traditional music and dance.
– Cultural Performances:
Theatrical performances, dance shows, and concerts celebrate Mexican heritage and the theme of death and rebirth.
– Art Exhibitions:
Museums and galleries showcase Day of the Dead-themed art, including traditional crafts and contemporary works.
Pro Tips As a Visitor
- Respect Traditions: Be mindful and respectful when visiting cemeteries and participating in rituals.
- Learn Basic Spanish: A few Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
- Try Traditional Foods: Don’t miss out on tasting Pan de Muerto, tamales, and other festive foods.
- Participate: Join in workshops to make sugar skulls or papel picado (cut paper decorations).
- Document Respectfully: Take photos of public celebrations, but always ask for permission when photographing people or private altars.
Things to know before going to Mexico
- First, never drink tap water in Mexico. Do not use tap water even for brushing your teeth.
- Secondly, sockets in Mexico are based on standard designs.
- Third, Time in Mexico are
- Fourth, Always follow safety precautions like not giving your passport to any Local agency. Tourist scams are common in Mexico.
- Fifth, tipping is almost mandatory in Mexico so add 15% for tipping to the total bill.
- Use some basic phrases of Spanish in your communication so it seems like you respect their culture. By this, you get a comfortable environment around you.
- The emergency call number for ambulances and cops is 911.
What To Pack For The Mexico Tour
Packing for the Mexico tour has fun in itself by the ways need things in Mexico:
- Firstly and most importantly you need a big bottle of mosquito or a bug protector in Mexico because In some areas of Mexico Mosquitos are a problem.
- Also, pack at least 2 bottles of sunscreen you need it a lot in Mexico.
- With some cool flyer froks and a variety of bikinis, you should pack at least a pair of jackets because sometimes Mexico seems pretty chill.
- Don’t forget your sunglasses and summer hats. Baby girl you need them for your breathtaking pictures.
- For man,s: guys you always look handsome just pack a bunch of shorts with floral printed shirts and don’t forget some cargos and sendos.
Which SIM Card Has The Best Coverage In Mexico
They are the top three SIM cards with great coverage and the highest speed in Mexico:
- Telcel
Telcel is the most reliable sim company in Mexico. You can also book this sim card online in advance. It costs you about 20 USD.
- AT&T
AT&T is the second most reliable sim company in Mexico in my opinion guys. It costs you around 10 USD for a monthly package.
- Movistar
Movistar is also a major provider of networks in Mexico. It costs you around 20 USD for 22GB. You can choose any of the networks from these three all are the best and provide excellent service.
Best Places To Visit For Mexico Travel Itinerary
When you visit Mexico these are the must-visit places. If you haven’t visited one of them I won’t consider your tour to Mexico completed.
- Mexico City
- Oaxaca
- Cancun
- Tulum pueblo magicos
- San miguel de Allende
- Cabo san lucas
From where To Book A Trip To Mexico
Beginners should hire a trip guide when they visit Mexico more than 2,3 times then you shouldn’t need any tour company to guide you but for the very first time consider them. These are the best and most reliable tour companies in Mexico:
- https://www.kayak.com/packages/mexico
- https://www.booking.com/
- https://www.expedia.com/Mexico
Off-The-Beaten-Path Cenotes Near Playa Del Carmen
Are you the person who avoided rushy areas but still wanna enjoy the best spots for enjoying natural cenotes? Then, These are some best cenotes near Playa del Carmen:
- Cenote Cristalino
- Cenote Azul
- Cenote Eden
- Cenote Chikin Ha
- Cenote Siete Bocas
Whale Watching Tours In Baja California: Where And When To Go
Are you asking for this guys? I am too glad to write about it. It’s a thrilling experience to see the migration of thousands of grey whales to the peninsula. The peak season for this is February-March. Now, Let’s discuss some amazing points where you can see these adorable scenes.
- Laguna San Ignacio
It is the best spot for seeing the primary breeding of Grey Whales. It is known for its calm and shallow water. It’s a worthwhile experience. You can book your tour by
- Bahía Magdalena
It may be an expensive experience. But it offers you an amazing view of sheltered water that is perfect for grey whales and their calves.
You can book your tour by
- Guerrero Negro
This spot is located near and between the border of Baja California and Baja California Sur. This place is famous for high concentration and Grey whale breeding too. Many vendors in Guerrero City offer you a paid glimpse of grey whale breeding but some are given below:
- Cabo San Lucas
It’s a luxury resort experience for seeing humpback whales. It also offers you an incredible coastline, it’s an amazing experience.
- Loreto
Loreto has also an incredible offer. it offers you blue whale breeding which is the largest animal in the world and also humpback and grey whale breeding.
Teotihuacan pyramid Tours From Mexico City With An English Guide
It’s an amazing way to explore the Teotihuacan pyramid history from Mexico City with an amazing English guide. Here are some tour companies that offer a reliable guide: I have my personal experience with both of them.
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/
- https://www.getyourguide.com/
Faqs
- Is Mexico safe for tourists?
How many times do I have to tell you guys? Safety is with your actions and responses. Otherwise, I consider every country to be safe to travel. Just decide and do it my birds.
- What hidden beach gems are there in Mexico?
If you want a unique and decent experience go for the pristine beach of Hlobox Island in Yucatan. Just go for it and thank me later.
- Unique cultural experiences in Mexico?
For experiencing unique local cultural experiences you should take Zoque waving classes. If you are fond of culture you will definitely love it.
- Adventurous activities in Mexico beyond cenotes?
Hike the Copper Canyon, even deeper than the Grand Canyon. Offer a fantastic wildlife experience.
- Delicious Mexican food beyond tacos?
There are a lot of food options in Mexico but the city of Mexico known as Oaxaca has a speciality in unique flavoured sauces food. Their seafood is delicious. Ceviche is also well known it’s a traditional dish by the way.
- How much does a budget trip to Mexico cost?
It costs about 100-120 USD per day for a wholesome experience to be honest this is all we want.