Get to Know Mexico
- maya dalal
- Sep 13
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 6
Hey there! So you're thinking about Mexico? Amazing choice! This is the place that redefines what you think you know about hospitality, food, and the pure joy of living.
Here's everything I learned about this incredible country that will steal your heart from day one...
Time
Mexico spans multiple time zones, but most tourist hotspots (Mexico City, Cancun, Riviera Maya) are in Central Standard Time (CST), UTC -6. The bottom line: It's pretty manageable for planning, just double-check your specific destination!
Visa
Visa requirements vary based on your nationality. Check your country's embassy or use iVisa to find out what you need.
For example, U.S. passport holders can enter for up to 180 days without a visa. Requirements may differ for other nationalities – always check in advance.
What you'll need regardless:
Valid passport for your entire stay
Return or outbound ticket - mandatory as of June 2025!
Hotel reservations or travel plans (immigration may ask)
My tip: Have all your documents organized and ready - Mexican immigration likes to see you're prepared!
Airports
With such a diverse country, your airport choice sets the tone:
Mexico City (MEX) - The heart of it all, history and culture
Cancun (CUN) - Caribbean beaches and Mayan ruins
Guadalajara (GDL) - Traditional Mexico, tequila, and mariachi
Los Cabos (SJD) - Desert meets ocean vibes
Monterrey (MTY) - Business hub with mountain backdrop
My strategy: Pick your vibe first - beach, culture, or adventure - then choose your gateway accordingly!
Getting Around
Transportation in Mexico is diverse and an experience itself:
Domestic flights: Quick hops between major cities
Buses: Comfortable and affordable for long distances
Metro systems: Mexico City has an impressive subway network
Uber/DiDi: Your best friends in cities
Car rentals: Perfect for exploring at your own pace
Important note: Mexican driving style is... let's call it "creative." If you're not comfortable with assertive driving, stick to ride-shares in cities!
🏝️ Visiting Isla Mujeres? Most tourists fall into the same traps: they arrive on a crowded day trip, eat at the obvious restaurants, and completely miss the island's real magic. If you want to skip the crowds and discover the authentic, local side—from the secret spot to see Mexico's first sunrise to the happy hour with 50% off everything—this is the guide for you. My 7 Insider Tips for Visiting Isla Mujeres Like a Local
Weather
Mexico has two main seasons that you need to know about:
Peak Season (December-April)
Temperatures: 60-80°F (16-27°C)
The good: Dry, sunny, perfect weather
The not-so-good: Busiest and most expensive time
Perfect for: Beach lovers and festival goers
Rainy Season (May-October)
Temperatures: 75-95°F (24-35°C)
The good: Fewer crowds, lower prices, lush landscapes
The challenges: Hot, humid, afternoon showers, hurricane risk on coasts
Watch out for: August-October = peak hurricane season
🎯 When to go? November-April for ideal weather, but honestly, Mexico is beautiful year-round!
🚫 When to avoid: September-October if you're heading to the Caribbean or Pacific coasts - hurricane season is real.
My weather tip: Even in the dry season, pack a light rain jacket. Mexican weather can surprise you!
🛌 Accommodation in Mexico: Finding the perfect place to stay in Mexico can be confusing, especially with so many options. That's exactly why I've created detailed guides to help you understand the neighborhoods and areas, and choose the place that best suits your travel style.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Bonus points: Learn a few Spanish phrases - Mexicans absolutely love it when you try!
How to Blend In
Mexicans are some of the warmest people you'll meet: Greetings:
Handshakes + genuine smiles
Fist bumps are super popular with younger folks
"¡Hola!" works everywhere
Cultural notes:
Punctuality is flexible - a few minutes late is totally normal
Respect for elders is huge
Warmth and politeness open every door
My secret: Mexicans respond incredibly well to genuine friendliness. Smile and be yourself!
💡 Want to feel like you're "in the know"? I've compiled all the little tips and secret recommendations I've gathered along the way—the ones you won't find in guidebooks. Things that will make your trip much easier, more pleasant, and authentic. All my best tips are in this post.
Money - Mexican Peso (MXN)
Credit cards work great in cities and tourist areas, but always carry some cash for small vendors and markets. ATMs are everywhere in cities.
Cash tip: Small bills are your friend - breaking a large bill for a street taco can be challenging!
Electricity - Easy for Americans
127V, 60Hz - same plugs as the U.S. (types A and B). If you're from elsewhere, you might need an adapter.
Water
Don't drink tap water. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere.
Pro tip: Even locals often prefer bottled water, so don't feel awkward about it!
Internet & SIM
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
For SIM cards:
At the airport: Convenient but pricier
Convenience stores (Oxxo, 7-Eleven): Good middle ground
Mobile shops in town: Cheapest option, most variety
Main providers: Telcel (strongest coverage), AT&T, Movistar
💡 My recommendation: Telcel if you're traveling beyond cities - their coverage is unbeatable.
📱Wondering which apps saved my trip in Mexico? All the details, tips, and links are waiting for you in the full post. Click here to start planning your smart trip!
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex relationships are legal, and LGBTQ+ travelers are generally welcome in tourist areas. Mexico City and resort destinations have vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes. In rural areas, a bit more discretion is advised - not unsafe, just cultural awareness.
Eco-Travel
Mexico is incredible for eco-conscious travelers:
National parks and biosphere reserves
Cenotes (natural swimming holes) that are magical
Wildlife reserves with incredible biodiversity
Sustainable resorts leading the way
Sea turtle conservation programs
Remember: Help preserve these amazing places for future generations!
Holidays & Festivals
Here are the big celebrations to know about:
Date | Holiday/Festival |
January 1 | New Year's Day |
February 5 | Constitution Day |
March 21 | Benito Juárez's Birthday |
March/April | Holy Week (Semana Santa) - Big vacation time! |
May 1 | Labor Day |
May 5 | Cinco de Mayo |
September 16 | Independence Day - Massive celebrations! |
November 1-2 | Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) |
November 20 | Revolution Day |
December 12 | Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe |
December 25 | Christmas |
Special note: Day of the Dead isn't Halloween - it's a beautiful celebration of life and memory. If you're there during this time, it's truly magical!
Emergency Numbers
Police, Fire, Ambulance: 911 Language note: Not all operators speak English, so having a Spanish-speaking friend nearby helps!
Local Cuisine
Mexican food is so much more than what you know:
Tacos - But the real ones, not hard shells!
Tamales - Corn masa perfection
Mole - Complex sauces that are pure art
Pozole - Hearty soup that warms the soul
Regional specialties:
Cochinita pibil in Yucatán
Mole poblano in Puebla
Fresh seafood on both coasts
Street food philosophy: Choose busy, clean stalls where locals eat. If there's a line of Mexicans, you know it's good!
🌮 Tired of touristy "tacos" from Fifth Avenue? Come and discover the real flavors of Playa del Carmen! I'm working on a special food tour that will take you to the most authentic places—where the chef is a local grandmother and the tacos are made with love. This isn't just a tour, it's an experience that will open your heart and stomach. Join the unforgettable culinary experience. Coming soon!
Safety - Smart Travel Tips
Most tourist destinations are very safe, but like anywhere, stay aware:
Some states have higher crime rates (check current advisories)
Stick to well-traveled areas
Use common sense with valuables
Follow local advice from hotels and guides
My safety rule: Trust your instincts, stay alert, but don't let fear stop you from experiencing this incredible country!
🙋♀️ Traveling solo? I'm with you! In a special post for women, I share personal experiences and practical tips on safety, dealing with unwanted attention, and the most beautiful part: building real connections with local women. Click here to join the community.
That's it - you're ready for Mexico!
Mexico is a country that changes you. The warmth of the people, the explosion of flavors, the colors, the music, the history - it all comes together to create something truly magical. Don't rush between destinations; take time to savor each moment.
¡Buen viaje! (Have a great trip!)
Questions about Mexico? I'm here to help! Share your adventure photos with me 🌮
🗺️ Ready to hit the road?
I've put together a winning itinerary for you that combines the beaches of Yucatan, the magical cities of the center, and authentic culture. Here's the full day-by-day plan. And it's completely free!
🗺️ Want to skip the lines, find the hidden restaurants only locals know about, and navigate with ease as if you live here?
I've created curated digital maps for you that save hours of planning. Instead of wasting time on searches, you can head straight for the adventure!
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