Travel to Mexico

Travelling to Mexico is relatively easy and accessible, with various options based on where you’re coming from and your travel preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan a smooth journey:

• Popular Regions: Mexico is large and diverse, with popular destinations like Mexico City for history and culture, the Yucatán Peninsula for beaches and Mayan ruins, Oaxaca for food and traditions, and Baja California for coastal experiences and whale watching.

• Purpose of Visit: Decide if you’re interested in a beach vacation, cultural sites, eco-tourism, adventure activities, or a mix of these.

How to plan your trip to Mexico

There are so many places to arrive in Mexico depending where you are coming from. The most popular airports are CMDX & Cancun as these are the top tourist destinations.

Best time to visit Mexico

Mexico’s peak season is from December to April, with dry, pleasant weather and higher prices. The rainy season is from May to October, with some regions experiencing more intense rain.

Top Destinations in Mexico

Mexico is a vast and diverse country with something to offer every type of traveller. Whether you’re seeking stunning beaches, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, or natural wonders, here are some of the top destinations in Mexico that should be on your travel list:

Mexico City (CDMX): Why Visit: As the capital and one of the largest cities in the world, Mexico City is a cultural powerhouse. It boasts world-class museums, historical sites, vibrant neighbourhoods, and exceptional cuisine.

Cancún & Riviera Maya: Why Visit: Known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Cancún is a paradise for beach lovers and a gateway to Mayan ruins and eco-tourism.

Oaxaca: Why Visit: Oaxaca is known for its rich Indigenous culture, colourful markets, and some of the best food in Mexico, especially its famous mole dishes.

Cabo San Lucas: Why Visit: Located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Cabo is a luxurious beach destination offering world-class resorts, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Food & Culture in Mexico

I know for me, Food was a big reason for me to travel to Mexico… As Mexican food is my absolute favourite! Give me tacos, and nachos every day of the week! Of course, in the Western world, we have changed the cuisine to suit our tastebuds, so the Mexican food in Mexico is a little different from the Mexican food we have in Australia. I remember landing in Mexico City and I made sure the first meal I had was TACOS! I found a 24-hour taco bar; it was the best first experience of Mexican food. Mexican food is recognized globally for its rich flavours, vibrant colours, and diverse ingredients. In 2010, UNESCO declared Mexican cuisine an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity—one of only a few cuisines worldwide to receive this honour.

Famous Dishes to Try:

• Tacos: Available everywhere, from street vendors to high-end restaurants. Varieties include al pastor, carnitas, and barbacoa.

• Mole: A complex sauce (often with chocolate and spices) served over meat. Mole poblano is one of the most famous.

• Tamales: Corn dough filled with meats, cheeses, or chillies, steamed in corn husks.

• Pozole: A hearty hominy stew, typically served with pork or chicken.

• Chiles en Nogada: Poblano peppers stuffed with picadillo, topped with a creamy walnut sauce—symbolizing the colours of the Mexican flag.

• Ceviche: Fresh seafood "cooked" in lime juice, often found in coastal areas.

Mexican culture blends indigenous roots with Spanish colonial influences. Cities like Guanajuato and Oaxaca showcase stunning colonial architecture and indigenous crafts. Today, contemporary Mexican culture continues to thrive in art, cinema (think Guillermo del Toro and Alfonso Cuarón), and fashion.

Ancient Civilizations:

• Mayan and Aztec Legacies: Many traditions trace back to these advanced cultures. Sites like Teotihuacán, Palenque, and Chichén Itzá are testaments to their achievements.

• Language: While Spanish is the official language, there are over 60 indigenous languages still spoken, such as Nahuatl and Maya.

Why you SHOULD travel to Mexico

Mexico offers an incredible variety of experiences, making it a top destination for travellers. Here's why you should consider visiting:

• Diverse Landscapes: From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean in Cancun to the towering mountains in Chiapas, deserts in Baja California, and lush jungles in Yucatán.

• UNESCO-recognized Food Heritage: Enjoy authentic tacos, mole, tamales, and world-famous street food.

• Ancient Ruins: Explore Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and the impressive pyramids of Teotihuacán.

• World-Class Museums: Explore the Frida Kahlo Museum and Mexico City's Museum of Anthropology.

  Whether you love history, adventure, food, or simply relaxing on the beach, Mexico has something for everyone!

Safety and travel advice in Mexico

Mexico is a beautiful and diverse country, but like any international destination, it requires careful planning and awareness to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here’s what you need to know:

Stick to Tourist Areas in Mexico:

• Popular destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos are generally safer for tourists.

• Avoid travelling alone at night or venturing into unfamiliar neighbourhoods.

1. Use Reliable Transportation:

   • Use official taxis (authorized taxi stands) or ride-hailing apps like Uber.

   • Avoid flagging down taxis on the street, especially in big cities.

2. Protect Your Valuables:

   • Use hotel safes for passports and valuables.

   • Keep a copy of important documents like your passport and ID.

   • Avoid flashing cash, jewellery, or electronics in public.

3. Stay Alert with ATMs:

   • Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centres rather than on the street.

   • Be cautious of skimming devices.

     Areas to Approach with Caution in Mexico:

     • Some regions face higher crime rates, especially related to drug cartels and organized crime. The U.S. State Department often advises against travel to certain states like Guerrero or Sinaloa.

     • Research the specific area you plan to visit. Tourist-heavy states like Yucatán and Quintana Roo generally have lower crime rates than border regions.

       Health

     • Food and Water:

       • Avoid drinking tap water; stick to bottled water or purified options.

       • Enjoy street food, but choose vendors with good hygiene practices and high turnover.

     • Vaccinations:

       • Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date (hepatitis A, typhoid, etc.).

       • Consider travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

     • Sun Protection:

       • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially in beach regions or high altitudes.

         Emergency Contacts in Mexico

         • Police or Medical Emergency: Dial 911

         • Tourist Assistance: Many tourist areas have special tourist police; ask your hotel for details.

     Millions of tourists visit Mexico each year without incident. By staying informed, being cautious, and respecting local customs, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable journey through this vibrant country.