All You Need to Know Before Traveling to Mexico
Why Mexico? 🇲🇽
Mexico is an incredibly vast and diverse country—so much so that it’s almost the size of Europe (minus Russia) 🌍. With such a large expanse, the country offers a wide range of experiences, from the arid deserts of the north to the lush jungles and stunning coastlines of the south. Each region has its own unique charm, traditions, and even signature dishes, making every state feel like a new adventure.
In Mexico, you can immerse yourself in vibrant cities, explore rich cultural events and festivals, dive into ancient history with Mayan ruins, or simply relax on one of its many beautiful beaches 🏖️. There’s truly something for everyone—whether you’re into architecture, nature, or culinary delights, Mexico has it all.
❌ Why not Mexico?
One thing Mexico isn’t known for is hiking 🥾. Although I'm sure you can find some great trails, hiking isn’t a common activity here, and neither should it be your priority. There aren’t many established routes, and venturing into remote areas can be risky if you’re not familiar with the terrain. That being said, there's amazing nature in Mexico and it's mostly accessible without getting in your 10K steps 👣
BTW, all pictures in this guide are mine 📷🙋🏽♀️ check my Instagram for more great picture from my travels:
Mexico in numbers:
• Population: Approximately 130 million people 👥
• Square Area: 1.964 million square kilometers (758,449 square miles) 🌍
• Number of States: 32 states, including the capital, Mexico City 🏙️
• Age: Officially established in 1821 (203 years old as of 2024) 🎉
• Languages Spoken: Over 68 indigenous languages in addition to Spanish 🗣️
• Borders: 3 countries (United States, Guatemala, and Belize) 🌐
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 35 (one of the highest numbers in the Americas) 🏛️
• Highest Peak: Pico de Orizaba, at 5,636 meters (18,491 feet) 🏔️
• Coastline: 9,330 kilometers (5,797 miles) of coastline along the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea 🌊
Where to Go
Here are my recommended destinations:
Yucatán Peninsula
Here's my recommended itinerary for Yucatán 👇🏼
Mexico City and Around
Jalisco
Baja California
Oaxaca & Chiapas
→ Check out my guide to Mazunte & Zipolite, Oaxaca's most beautiful beach towns👇🏼
When to go
Winter: The most popular time to visit—while it’s cold in Europe and the US, it’s still warm in most of Mexico, especially along the coast 🌞. But be prepared for a LOT more tourists, especially in the Caribbean, with a noticeable influx of European visitors (especially the French 🤷🏽♀️)
• Summer: Expect fewer tourists but hotter and more humid conditions 🔥. Some regions, like Oaxaca and Chiapas, may experience more rain, but it’s still a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Don’t miss the Guelaguetza festival in Oaxaca City in July, a vibrant celebration of Oaxacan culture 🌽🎉
• Spring: Spring is a great time to visit Mexico with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds 🌸. However, be aware of Semana Santa (Mexican Easter) when families flock to the coast. Beaches can get packed during this time, so consider going against the flow and experiencing the unique traditions in the cities instead 🏖️➡️🏙️
• Fall: The beginning of November brings the incredible Día de Muertos celebrations, a must-see spectacle 💀🌼. Top spots to experience this include Oaxaca City, Mexico City, Guanajuato, and Merida (Yucatan). This is the perfect time to dive deep into Mexican traditions.
Do I Need a Visa?
Short answer - NO ❌
Good news—you don’t need to apply for a visa before traveling to Mexico! However, you do need a return ticket, and you’ll likely be asked to show it before boarding your flight ✈️ It doesn’t have to be a ticket back to your home country, but you need to prove that you’ll leave Mexico within 180 days of entering.
If you’re from Europe or the US, you’ll typically get 180 days to explore Mexico 🌞. That said, it’s up to the immigration officer, and sometimes they might only give you as many days as your return ticket shows. Occasionally, they might stamp you for just 3 months if they’re having a bad day and want to play tough 😅
Be ready to answer a few basic questions at immigration, like your reason for visiting and how long you’ll stay. Have the address of your first accommodation handy 📄. They usually speak some English but it can be far from perfect. Some countries are more suspicious to Mexicans than others—I've heard of Romanians going through a tough time at immigration 🤷🏽♀️
What to Pack
When traveling in Mexico, it’s best to pack light and opt for a backpack instead of a suitcase—those dirt roads and uneven surfaces aren’t suitcase-friendly! 🎒
• Light, comfortable clothing 🩳
• Beachwear and a beach towel 🏖️
• A hat to protect from the sun 🧢
• Good walking shoes 👟
• Sunglasses 😎
• Sunscreen (a must in the Mexican sun) ☀️
• General cosmetics in travel-friendly bottles 🧴
• Camera (Mexico is very Insta-worthy!) 📸
• Phone and charger (Mexico uses the same outlets as the US) 📱
• Powerbank 🔋
• Padlock if you're planning on staying at hostels
• Cash in USD or EUR if you plan to exchange, though I recommend withdrawing on the spot 💵
• Any personal medication (consider taking probiotics before your trip to strengthen your stomach) 💊
• All necessary documents and digital copies (passport, driver’s license, insurance, credit/debit card) 📄
• Small backpack or fanny pack for daily outings 🎒
What not to bring ❌
• Food (there’s plenty to enjoy here) 🍲
• Expensive-looking jewelry 💍
• Knife or pepper spray (you can’t fly with these in your carry-on, and you won’t need them) 🚫
• General medication: Mexican pharmacies are well-stocked, and you can get many things over the counter that normally require a prescription 💊
Safety Tips
Although Mexico often gets a bad rap from shows like Narcos, it’s actually one of the safest countries to travel in Latin America 🌎. Most crime here involves gangs or domestic issues, so as a tourist, you’re not the target. Even the narcos know better than to mess with the tourists who bring money into the country.
That said, it’s always smart to follow general safety rules and use common sense. Ditch the flashy clothes and jewelry—comfortable and casual is the way to go 👕. People will still recognize you as a tourist, which often means “rich” in their eyes, so be aware of what things should cost, and a little Spanish goes a long way in avoiding getting overcharged.
In big cities like Mexico City, stick to areas where you see other tourists. If you find yourself in a sketchy neighborhood or out late at night, it’s best to move on quickly 🚕. Speaking of taxis, be cautious at Cancun airport—drivers can be pushy. Opt for a reputable taxi company with an office inside the airport or take the ADO bus straight to the city center, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum 🚌.
General Tips:
• Don’t carry too much cash on you
• Avoid keeping your wallet in obvious places like your back pocket 💵
• Have a digital copy of your passport saved on your phone 📱
• Get travel insurance that covers theft 🛡️
• Avoid isolated areas at night 🌙
Is Mexico safe for solo female travelers?
As a solo female traveler, I’ve journeyed all over Mexico without any major issues 🌎. Sure, I get the occasional cat-call, but it’s nothing I haven’t experienced in Europe. While it’s wise to dress appropriately, this isn’t India—you don’t need to keep your shoulders and knees covered at all times. Mexican women often wear short skirts and tank tops, so there’s no need to be overly modest 👗. Keep in mind that you might be seen as exotic, which can attract attention—but looks don’t always mean harm.
I’ve had a few Mexican men compliment my beauty and even ask if I wanted to marry them (probably for papers), but they always backed off after a polite refusal 💍. There’s no need to be rude—unless they really push it—just like anywhere else in the world. Mexico is generally a safe place for solo female travelers, so don’t let fear hold you back from exploring this beautiful country.
Don't be afraid to ask for help‼️ ⚠️
Remember that Mexicans are generally very helpful and friendly! Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance—some speak decent English, especially in touristy spots 🗣️
And stay hydrated! ⛲️
Skip the Crowds
While some places are a must-see, others are just too crowded to be worth your time—especially in the very touristy Yucatan. Here are some spots to avoid if you want to skip the crowds, along with less-crowded alternatives:
Chichen Itza
Famous as one of the world's wonders, but it’s just one of hundreds of Mayan ruins across Mexico 🏛️. Especially in winter, save yourself the hassle and the cash.
• Alternative: Visit Coba, Tulum, Uxmal, Ek Balam, or if you’re up for an adventure, head to Calakmul—remote, hard to reach, but 100% worth it 🌳
Isla Mujeres
A Caribbean paradise, yes, but paradise doesn’t mean packed beaches 🏖️. If you must go, make it a day trip from Cancun and visit the lighthouse at the island’s southern tip.
• Alternative: For a better island vibe, head to Holbox, where the pace is slower and the crowds are smaller 🌴
Playa del Carmen
Or "Playa del Crimen" as they jokingly say here, referring to the area's high concentration of narco. This place is all about the party scene—if nightlife isn’t your thing, neither is Playa del Carmen 🍹.
• Alternative: For better beaches and a more laid-back atmosphere, check out Puerto Morelos, Tulum, or Mahahual 🌊
Acapulco
Once a top destination, now it’s crowded and plagued by narco activity 🚫. The beaches aren’t even that great anymore.
• Alternative: Head to the coast of Jalisco or Nayarit for beautiful beaches like Sayulita, where the vibe is chill and the scenery is stunning 🏄♂️
Las Coloradas
You’ve seen those famous photos of pink salt lakes, but it’s not what it seems 🌸. While the water used to naturally have a pinkish hue, it’s now artificially colored with chemicals to attract tourists. The high entrance fees aren’t worth it for a walk around what’s essentially a salt mine.
• Alternative: Visit the neighboring town of Río Lagartos and take a boat tour around the lagoon—you'll see spectacular wildlife and support the local ecosystem🐊.
How to Move Around
Mexico has a well-developed public transportation system, with the exception of Baja California, where renting a car is your best bet 🚗. Transportation is generally very affordable, and you can get almost anywhere—just remember that schedules are more of a suggestion here! Avoid tight itineraries, as you never really know when you’ll arrive. Flexibility is key! 😉
Inside a city:
• Other Cities: Uber and Didi (an Uber-like app) are the way to go. You can also hail a taxi on the street, but it’s slightly less safe—make sure they have a working meter.
Public transportation options:
•Buses: There are first and second-class buses, with differences in price and comfort. ADO is the go-to company—affordable, reliable, and they cater to tourists. They even have an app and website, though it’s a coin toss whether they’ll work that day 🚌.
• Flights: You’ll likely fly into Mexico City or Cancun. From there, you can catch domestic flights to various destinations, including Guadalajara, Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, Puerto Vallarta, La Paz, Tuxtla, and Merida ✈️
• Carpooling: There’s an app called Blablacar for carpooling, where you can catch a ride at a very affordable price 🚗. It’s popular around Mexico City but less so in other regions like the Yucatan. Still, it’s worth checking—just make sure the driver has good reviews.
P.S. Consider renting a bike 🚴
Money: Cash vs. Credit Card
Mexico is mostly a cash country 💵. You can only use your credit card at big supermarkets, some gas stations, fancy restaurants, and certain accommodations. Even then, expect a 5% surcharge for using the terminal (it’s because they get taxed heavily for that service). So, it’s better to carry cash instead.
Where to get cash?
• Exchange: You can bring USD or EUR and exchange it, but I don’t recommend this option due to poor rates. Surprisingly, the airport usually offers the best exchange rates. In the city, rates are terrible, limits are low, and scams are common, so be cautious if you go this route 💶.
• ATM Withdrawal: This is your best bet 💳 Consider getting an international account like Revolut for better rates and low fees. Mexican ATMs will charge a fee, so stick to non-touristy areas for better deals. Fees should be between 25-70 pesos (1-4 euros); anything higher is a rip-off. Always decline the ATM’s exchange rate offer—let your bank handle it. For the best rates, look for ATMs of the following brands: Caja Popular, BBVA, and Santander.
Always carry smaller bills, as many places will struggle to break a 500 pesos note 💶 And make sure to store it in a safe place; again, your back pocket might not be it—opt for a fanny pack instead.
Budgeting
Prices in Mexico can vary widely depending on where you are. The Yucatan Peninsula is one of the priciest regions, while Chiapas is the most budget-friendly 🌎. If you want to save money, stick to street food (there’s plenty of it) and stay in hostels. You might even consider Couchsurfing—I've had great experiences with it in Mexico! While hitchhiking isn’t the safest option and I don’t recommend it, I’ve done it myself, and it was both easy and convenient (and free) 🚗.
Keep in mind that the Mexican peso has strengthened by over 30% in recent years, so Mexico isn’t as cheap as it used to be 💸. It’s still more affordable than the US or most of Europe, though—so if you’re paying California prices, you’re definitely getting ripped off!
Eating Out
• Street stall: 60 pesos 🌮
• Local eatery: 100 pesos 🍲
• Mid-range restaurant: 200 pesos 🍽️
• Anything over 300 pesos is fancy and probably not authentically Mexican
Accommodation*
• Budget private room for 2: 450+ pesos 🛌
• Mid-range private room: 700-1500 pesos
•Anything above 1500 pesos is high-end
* I recommend booking your accommodation a few days ahead at Booking, Airbnb, or Hostelworld. That way you can rest assured you'll have a roof over your head and no hassle once you arrive 🏨
Transportation
• Metro ride in Mexico City: 4 pesos 🚇
• Taxi ride in the city: 50-200 pesos depending on distance 🚕
• Colectivos: Around 1 peso per kilometer 🚐
• Buses: About 100 pesos per hour 🚌
Tipping
Tipping in Mexico isn’t as strict as in the US, but most restaurants will expect at least a 10% tip 🍽️. No need to tip at street food stands, though. Other places where tips are expected include gas stations (where attendants pump your gas for you), the person bagging your groceries at the supermarket, and those friendly folks who assist with parking (even if you didn’t ask for help) 🚗. Tipping in taxis isn’t necessary, but it’s appreciated if the service is good 🚖.
Groceries
Mexicans typically shop at specialized stores: fruits and veggies at the “frutería,” dry goods at “abarrotes,” meat at the “carnicería,” or everything at the local mercado. For a true Mexican experience, visit a central mercado—just be ready to see some wild sights, like a cow’s head staring at you from the butcher’s stall 🐮!
Food You Have to Try
Tacos: You can find tacos anywhere in Mexico, but the best ones are in Mexico City 🌮. It’s a night dish, so hit up the street stands after dark for an authentic experience.
Other Street Food: Quesadillas, gorditas, sopes, gringas, flautas, tostadas, tacos dorados—these are street food staples found all over Mexico at local stands
Chilaquiles: The ultimate breakfast dish and a lifesaver for hangovers! You can choose between eggs, chicken, chorizo or other toppings 🍳
Pozole: A hearty soup that’s perfect for those cold days out there (just kidding, we don't get many cold days) 🍲
Tamales: Made of maíz, these "cakes" are especially delicious in Chiapas and Oaxaca, where they come wrapped in banana leaves 🌽
Tlayuda: A must-try in Oaxaca—think of it as a giant, crispy tortilla loaded with goodness 🌮
Mole: Rich and complex sauce made of chilies and chocolate, mole is originally from Puebla 🍫
Enchiladas, Enfrijoladas, Enmoladas: Find these delicious dishes at any local eatery, where they’re stuffed with your choice of filling 🌯
Mariscos (Seafood): Fresh and flavorful—especially ceviche, camarones a la diabla, and pescado al ajo—best enjoyed along the coast 🦐
Birria y Cochinita Pibil: These savory, slow-cooked meats are a must in Yucatan 🍖
Carnitas: A meat lover’s dream, found all over Mexico but the best ones are to be found in Guadalajara 🥩
Torta Ahogada: A Jalisco specialty—this “drowned sandwich” is smothered in spicy sauce 🌶️
Chapulines: For the adventurous, try these roasted grasshoppers at any Oaxacan market 🦗
Marquesita: A sweet treat found in Yucatan—think crispy crepes filled with cheese and nutella (yep, that's right!) 🧀🍫
Chile en Nogada: A special dish available only in September, especially in Mexico City 🌶️
❌ Skip: Not-Actually Mexican but Tex-Mex
• Burritos 🌯
• Nachos 🧀
• Chili con carne 🌶️
🌱For Vegetarians
While Mexican cuisine is often meat-heavy, vegetarians won’t go hungry. Many dishes feature plant-based ingredients, and you can always find hipster vegetarian restaurants for something different. Here are some vegetarian-friendly dishes to try:
Elotes y Esquites: Corn on the cob or in a cup, available all over Mexico—my favorite is in Aguascalientes, where they’re called “chascas” 🌽
Enchiladas, Enfrijoladas, Enmoladas: Just ask for a cheese filling 🧀
Tlayuda Sencilla: A simple version with beans, cheese, tomatoes, and avocado 🥑
Vegetarian Tacos and Street Food: Fillings like rajas con crema, mushrooms (champiñones), zucchini, and zucchini flower (flor de calabaza) are common and delicious 🌱
Tamales with Elote or Chipilín: These vegetarian tamales are tasty and traditional 🌽
Guacamole: A must-have with everything and on everything 🥑!
Chilaquiles with Egg: A delicious and filling breakfast option 🍳
Some Observations about Mexican People:
(from a subjective perspective)
After living in and traveling around Mexico on and off for the last six years, I’ve had the chance to mingle with locals and get to know them pretty well. While I’m not a fan of stereotypes, here are some innocent observations that might help you understand the culture a bit better:
• Hospitality: Mexicans are incredibly hospitable and don’t expect anything in return for their kindness 🏠
• Family Ties: Family connections are strong here, and there’s a deep respect for the elderly—way more than in the US or Europe. Elders are considered wise and are treated with reverence by everyone 👵🏽
• Helpful but...: Mexicans are eager to help, but they hate admitting they don’t know something. Instead, they’ll make something up to avoid saying “I don’t know.” Take their advice with a grain of salt 🤷🏽♀️
• Proud of Their Cuisine: Mexican cuisine is a source of immense pride, and every conversation will eventually turn to food 🌮. One of the first questions they’ll ask (if you speak Spanish) is whether you like their food. Never say no!
• Shyness: Mexicans, especially women, tend to be shy around tourists. They’re also camera-shy, so always ask before snapping a photo 📸
• Curiosity: Even though Mexico is a popular tourist destination, there are still areas where people might stare at you for being different, whether you’re white or black. Don’t be offended—just embrace it. They might think you’re the model of beauty (though they’ll still charge you double for it) 😅
• Historical Resentment: There’s still some lingering resentment about Spanish colonization, and unfortunately, many Mexicans see all Europeans as descendants of the colonizers. As a Czech, I’ve been told things like, “When you guys came to colonize us...” Really? Don’t take it personally like I did—it’s not worth it 🤦🏽♀️
• Height Difference: Be prepared to be the tallest person in every room, which sometimes means you won’t see your face in the mirror—but you’ll get a great view of your chest 👀
Travel Responsibly
Mexico is a fantastic place to practice responsible tourism, sustainability, and support for local communities 🌱. As a vast country, much of Mexico operates on a community level, with many self-sustaining and indigenous communities. While they might welcome you, it’s crucial to act with respect and support. Here are some general rules to follow:
• Respect Boundaries: Don’t intrude where you’re not welcome. Many indigenous tribes are shy and sometimes wary of outsiders. Be mindful and don’t impose yourself 🛑
• Support Financially: Most local communities are poor, and while they may not expect anything from you, financial support is always appreciated 💰. Their hospitality will more than reward you for your kindness
• Boost Local Economy: Choose tacos over pizza, especially from a street stand 🌮. Skip the McDonald’s—Mexico’s street food is far better and cheaper. Buy jewelry from artisans on the street, not from fancy boutiques 💍
• Travel Slowly: Mexico is huge, and it’s tempting to hop from place to place. But if you have the time, take it slow. Getting to know one place and its people in depth is far more rewarding than speeding through dozens of spots without really experiencing any of them 🚶♂️
Bonus Tip ⭐️
To stay connected on your travels, grab a Telcel SIM card—it's super affordable and convenient. You can get it at any of the OXXO convenience stores (you'll find these all around Mexico) or a dedicated Telcel store (might be more expensive though). Pick a package that suits your data needs and recharge it any time at any of the corner shops displaying the Telcel logo.
Need more help?
If you need a little extra push planning your Mexican adventure, I’ve got you covered! I offer consultation calls, curated itineraries, and custom-made tips to make sure your trip is unforgettable. Let’s chat and create the perfect plan for your next getaway! 🌍📅
A special gift for You ❤
Thanks for checking out my free guide to all-things-Mexico! As a little reward 🎁 here's a promo code with a 10% discount on ALL my paid guides: IAMHUNGRYFORMORE
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