Relaxing on all-inclusive resorts and sunbathing on the beach are enjoyable experiences; but to make your trip truly memorable add city exploration, delicious cuisine, festivals, and cultural activities such as those found in Mexico City!
Remember that Mexicans’ notions of time can vary significantly; be prepared for meetings to start late or even fail altogether! But hey, there are always some great Mexico water parks to enjoy if that happens. Remember these tips for an overall better experience.
1. Know the Language
As an expat or digital nomad traveling through Mexico, you will require some basic understanding of its culture and language in order to have an enjoyable visit – this article provides all of the tools and resources necessary for an effortless trip! Save money while staying safe while experiencing this magical country!
One common misstep made by visitors is bargaining in Mexico’s local markets and stores, even at resort-laden spots selling touristic souvenirs. Although bargaining may be considered acceptable in certain cases, this should generally be avoided to show respect to vendors and artists creating art – stick to their established prices instead!
When purchasing food or beverages in Mexico, it is polite to greet the vendor with a simple greeting such as Buenos dias (Good morning) or buena tarde (Good afternoon). When walking down a street and passing an abuela sitting outside her home, don’t forget to smile and say hello!
After purchasing gas in Mexico, it is common practice to leave an attendant with an appropriate tip of $10-20 pesos as a token of your appreciation for their services. Also keep small change on hand for purchases made on street corners or from vendors or corner stores.
2. Pack Light
Pack light and comfortable clothing and shoes when traveling to Mexico. Include sun protection such as hats and sunglasses, bug spray and extra layers just in case the temperature fluctuates unexpectedly. Also bring along extra pants and tops in case the temperature shifts unexpectedly. If visiting beaches is in your plans be sure to bring along towel, swimwear and reusable water bottle for single use plastic reduction purposes.
For longer trips, a backpack with lockable compartments is an ideal solution to ensure your belongings remain secure from pickpockets, while still being easy to carry around. Foldable backpacks may provide even more storage space!
Pack travel essentials, including a water purifier, reusuable shopping bag and journal or notebook to record your adventures. Cards or books are great way to pass time on beach trips or long bus rides; additionally you should include over-the-counter medication for headache, cramps, allergy and diarrhea as part of your emergency kit.
No matter what the headlines may suggest, Mexico is far safer than many people think. Cartel violence only impacts parts of Mexico where tourists don’t travel often – to ensure your trip goes as planned, always check government safety warnings prior to travelling and don’t let fear stand in your way!
3. Stay Connected
As a traveler or digital nomad traveling in Mexico, staying connected is of utmost importance. Equipped with the proper equipment and plans in advance, travelers can ensure a solid mobile connection while visiting this amazing nation.
Wi-Fi is one of the easiest and simplest ways to stay connected in Mexico, offering access at hotels, restaurants, libraries, breweries and most towns and cities across Mexico. When using it as your only means of connectivity ensure your device has an adequate battery life and check with your wireless carrier beforehand to make sure their data plan can accommodate international travel.
Explore vibrant neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma in Mexico City or stroll around historic landmarks such as Templo Mayor Museum or National Anthropology Museum, while art enthusiasts should make time for Frida Kahlo or El Palacio de Bellas Artes museums.
Mexico offers some of the world’s most exquisite culinary diversity. Taste authentic Mexican flavors in Mexico City or head south to Oaxaca for traditional regional dishes. Don’t miss visiting Monte Alban – one of the earliest Meso-American cities – or snorkel among whale sharks off Baja Coast.
4. Stay Safe
Many travelers report experiencing increased respect and acceptance from locals when they attempt to speak Spanish at least a bit. There are various online apps such as Rocket Spanish and Duolingo to help you brush up before traveling; doing so can prevent misunderstandings that lead to potentially dangerous situations and put yourself in perilous positions.
Mexico may seem like a safe haven, but it’s still wise to take precautions against crime. Petty theft such as phone snatching and pickpocketing are threats, particularly in crowded touristy areas. Avoid leaving valuables visible in your bags or pockets and be wary when accepting food, drinks or gum from strangers. Finally, avoid walking home alone at night or leaving belongings unattended in public spaces.
Lastly, when dining in restaurants it’s advisable to opt for packaged or bottled waters instead of tap water. If you have food allergies make sure that you alert the server prior to ordering and alert them again when paying the bill.
If you’re traveling through an earthquake zone in Mexico, downloading the SkyAlert app may prove invaluable in getting instantaneous alerts of an impending quake and knowing how to respond can save lives and prevent injuries.