When you are planning a trip there are always a list of questions that come up, plus some you don’t even think of asking. We’ve put together a list of questions our Mexico Travel Specialists get asked and additional helpful information.
If you have any further questions please do get in touch with our specialist team who will be happy to help.
Before departure
Your passport needs to be valid for six months after your planned departure from Mexico. You can find out more information on entry requirements on our Visa, Passport and Money Advice page.
If you’re a British passport holder travelling as a tourist, all you need to do to enter Mexico (and stay there for up to 90 days) is to complete an immigration form on arrival. You might be asked for proof of your return flights, so it’s good to have a copy of your e-ticket handy. Please keep your visa/immigration form with you as you’ll need to present it on your departure. Don’t panic if you lose it along the way – it can be replaced at the immigration office at any international airport in Mexico for around 550 Mexican Pesos (£25).
You can find out more information on entry requirements on our Visa, Passport and Money Advice page.
Yes, we would always recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, especially overseas, that is suitable for your requirements and needs.
With a hot climate we would advise loose clothing made of natural materials like cotton and linen to keep you cool. Swimsuits are a must for a cooling dip in the pool or sea. A pair of trainers with good grip if you are doing any hiking. Comfortable sandals for sightseeing and a warmer layer for any chilly bus journeys when the air-con is being pumped out!
It is always best to get the advice of a GP or travel nurse before travelling overseas to check which vaccinations you might need or if any boosters are required. The Travel Health Pro website provides a comprehensive guide on all the vaccinations you should consider.
Departure
We know heading off on holiday is always a little bit stressful, especially on the day you leave, so we would advise doing these things before you depart:
- Check you have all your necessary documentation, including your passport!
- Take a photo of your documents and email it to yourself and travelling partners. Having a copy on your phone always comes in handy too.
- Ensure you have all your chargers and converters for any phones, cameras, tablets you are taking. A portable battery pack is a handy item to have in your hand luggage.
- Take snacks and a big bottle of water for your flight.
- Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, we advise arriving 3 hours prior to your flight departure.
- Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage and take a photo of your checked bag in case it goes missing en route.
- Sit back and relax knowing we have your holiday sorted!
Arrival
In Mexico the spoken language is Spanish. The majority of people you come across will have a good grasp of English, particularly in hotels, restaurants and tourist spots. Knowing a bit of Spanish will certainly help you from time to time, though so having a few basis words or phrases is helpful especially in more remote areas.
Hello: Hola
Goodbye: Adiós
Thank you: Gracias
Please: Por favor
Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavors, use of spices, and diverse ingredients such as corn, beans, avocado, chilli peppers, and tomatoes. Popular dishes include tacos, enchiladas, tamales, guacamole, and mole sauce. Street food is also very popular in Mexico, with vendors selling items such as elotes (grilled corn on the cob), churros, and quesadillas.
Mexico has a rich and diverse culture that includes its history, religion, art, music, food, and social customs. It is important to be respectful of these aspects when interacting with people during your holiday to Mexico.
Some specific aspects to keep in mind include the importance of family, the influence of Catholicism, the significance of holidays such as Dia de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo, the popularity of traditional foods like tacos and tamales, and the use of formal titles such as “senor” and “senora” when addressing others.
Safety
Mexico is a popular tourist destination, but like any other country, you should always exercise reasonable care when travelling. Some of the areas in Mexico are considered unsafe for tourists to visit, we don’t offer any trips to these areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is common in tourist areas throughout Mexico. Visitors should take precautions to keep their belongings safe, such as not carrying large sums of money or valuable items, and being aware of their surroundings at all times.
We are contactable in the UK during office hours and our local partners in your destination are available 24/7 for any support or help you might need. They are in the best position as they will be on the same timezone, they should be your first contact in a case of emergency.
Tips and practical information
The currency in Mexico is called Nuevo Peso, known informally as ‘Peso’. UK debit and credit cards are broadly accepted for payment and in ATM’s – remember to notify your bank before you jet off so they don’t stop your transactions. If you take sterling with you, currency can be easily exchanged at Casas de Cambio (currency exchange kiosks, usually open throughout the day) or at the banks.
A tip (or propiña) is the best way to show your appreciation for good service in Mexico, Guatemala & Belize. It’s usually expected, and a lot of people rely on it to earn their living as the salaries in these countries are very modest. It’s customary to leave 10-15% of the bill at a restaurant unless service is already included. Porters and bellboys usually get 25-50 pesos for help with the luggage and you can leave the same for housekeeping. Taxi drivers usually don’t expect tips. We recommend tipping your guide 150-200 pesos per person for a full day trip.