Mexico

1. What are the best places to visit in Mexico?
Top destinations include Mexico City for its historic Zócalo and Teotihuacán pyramids, Cancún for its white-sand beaches, and Chichén Itzá for Mayan ruins. Oaxaca offers vibrant markets and mezcal tastings, while Guanajuato is known for its colonial architecture and mummies. Don’t miss the Copper Canyon in Chihuahua for stunning train rides.

2. Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
As of March 2025, the U.S. State Department has varying travel advisories for Mexico: Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) for areas like Cancún and Mexico City, but Level 4 (Do Not Travel) for states like Sinaloa due to crime. Tourist areas are generally safer if you avoid risky zones, travel during daylight, and stay in well-reviewed accommodations. Always check the latest advisories.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Mexico?
U.S., Canadian, EU, and UK citizens can visit Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days with a valid passport for tourism. You’ll need to fill out a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) upon entry, often provided by airlines or at the border. Other nationalities may require a visa, so check with the Mexican Embassy. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.

4. What is the best time to visit Mexico?
The best time to visit is from December to April, during the dry season, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C) in most areas, ideal for beach trips and cultural festivals like Day of the Dead (November 1-2). The rainy season, from May to October, brings humidity and hurricanes, especially in coastal areas like the Yucatán Peninsula.

5. What are the best beaches in Mexico?
Cancún’s Playa Delfines is famous for its turquoise waters, while Tulum offers beaches with Mayan ruins as a backdrop. Playa del Carmen’s Mamitas Beach is great for a lively vibe, and Puerto Vallarta’s Playa Los Muertos has a local feel. For a quieter escape, try Playa La Ropa in Zihuatanejo or Isla Holbox’s Playa Punta Cocos.

6. What are traditional Mexican foods to try?
Savor tacos al pastor (spiced pork with pineapple), tamales (steamed corn dough with fillings), and mole poblano (a rich chili-chocolate sauce). Try pozole (hominy stew), chiles en nogada (stuffed peppers with walnut sauce), and fresh ceviche on the coast. Pair with a margarita, mezcal, or a michelada (beer with lime and spices).

7. What are the best cultural experiences in Mexico?
Celebrate Day of the Dead in Oaxaca or Michoacán with colorful altars and parades, explore the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City, and attend a mariachi performance in Guadalajara. Visit the ancient city of Teotihuacán for the Pyramid of the Sun, join a mezcal tasting in Oaxaca, and witness the Voladores de Papantla ritual in Veracruz.

8. How can I travel around Mexico?
Buses like ADO are reliable and affordable, with fares from $10–$50 for long distances (e.g., Mexico City to Cancún). Domestic flights with airlines like Volaris or Aeroméxico cost $50–$150 for short routes. Renting a car costs $30–$60 per day (driving is on the right), ideal for rural areas. In cities, use Uber or local taxis ($5–$15 for short trips), and the Mexico City metro is $0.25 per ride.

9. What are the best outdoor activities in Mexico?
Snorkel in Cozumel’s coral reefs, hike to the summit of Pico de Orizaba (Mexico’s highest peak), and swim in the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula, like Cenote Dos Ojos. Surf in Sayulita, explore the Copper Canyon by train, and spot monarch butterflies in Michoacán’s biosphere reserve (November to March). Whale watching in Baja California Sur (January to April) is also a highlight.

10. What should I know about Mexican culture before visiting?
Mexico blends indigenous and Spanish influences, with a deep respect for family and tradition. Festivals like Day of the Dead and Independence Day (September 16) are vibrant celebrations. Spanish is the main language, though English is common in tourist areas. Tipping 10-15% is expected, and haggling in markets is normal. Be mindful of local customs, like greeting with a handshake or a polite “Buenos días.”