See what the experts are saying about Mexico. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
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The best resorts & spas
Hotel Ixtapan Spa and Golf Resort (Ixtapan; tel. 800/638-7950 in the U.S.): In operation since 1939, this resort is a classic, traditional spa with consistently upgraded amenities and services. It's also close to the region's renowned thermal... Continue reading »
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Planning a trip
A little planning can make the difference between a good trip and a great trip. When should you go? What's the best way to get there? How much should you plan on spending? What festivals or special events will occur during your visit? What sa... Continue reading »
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Fast facts
Abbreviations -- Dept. (apartments); Apdo. (post office box); Av. (avenida; avenue); c/ (calle; street); Calz. (calzada; boulevard). "C" on faucets stands for caliente (hot); "F" stands for frÃa (cold). "PB" (planta baja) means ground floor;... Continue reading »
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Visitor information
The Mexico Tourism Board (tel. 800/446-3942) is an excellent source for general information; you can request brochures on the country and get answers to the most common questions from the exceptionally well-trained, knowledgeable staff. Mo... Continue reading »
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When to go
Seasons -- Mexico has two principal travel seasons. High season begins around December 20 and continues to Easter; in some places it begins as early as mid-November. Low season is from the day after Easter to mid-December; during low season,... Continue reading »
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Calendar of events
Keep in mind that during national holidays, Mexican banks and governmental offices -- including immigration -- are closed. January Año Nuevo (New Year's Day), nationwide. This national holiday is perhaps the quietest day in all of Mexic... Continue reading »
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Getting there
By Plane The airline situation in Mexico is rapidly improving, with many new regional carriers offering scheduled service to areas previously not served. In addition to regularly scheduled service, charter service direct from U.S. cities t... Continue reading »
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Health & insurance
Insurance Travel Insurance -- The cost of travel insurance varies widely, depending on the destination, the cost and length of your trip, your age and health, and the type of trip you're taking, but expect to pay between 5% and 8% of the v... Continue reading »
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Getting around
An important note: If your travel schedule depends on a vital connection -- say, a plane trip or a ferry or bus connection -- use the telephone numbers in this book or other resources to find out if the connection is still available. By Pl... Continue reading »
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Money
It's always advisable to bring money in a variety of forms on a vacation: a mix of cash, credit cards, and traveler's checks. You should also exchange enough petty cash to cover airport incidentals, tipping, and transportation to your hotel b... Continue reading »
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Entry requirements
Passports -- All travelers to Mexico are required to present photo identification and proof of citizenship, such as a valid passport, naturalization papers, or an original birth certificate with a raised seal, along with a driver's license or... Continue reading »
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Regions in brief
Baja California -- A peninsula longer than Italy, Baja stretches 1,402km (869 miles) from its border with California at Mexico's northernmost city of Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas at its southern tip. On one side is the Pacific Ocean; on the othe... Continue reading »
