Mexico is a top destination for travelers looking for either a relaxing time in a resort or an adventurous backpacking experience. Mexico is a country with great diversity that offers something for every type of person. Continue your reading to find out everything there is to know about the country before going there!
- When you should go
- Money currency
- What to eat
- Basic words to know
- How to use your phone / SIM card
- Some facts
- Insurance
- Different accommodation options
- Essential apps to have
When you should go
Mexico has two seasons: dry season and rainy season.
The dry season runs from November through April. It is by far the most popular season to travel in Mexico. You have a guarantee of having clear skies and sunny days. The temperature is between 25 and 40 degrees, depending on the region. However, it is also the busiest season with loads of tourists. That means higher accommodation prices and people during activities.
The rainy season runs from May through October. Mexico is known for heavy showers during this season and hurricanes on the Caribbean coast. The temperature is colder than during the dry season, and the sun is not always present.
Don’t forget that Mexico is a huge country, so the weather may vary by region and season. It’s important to check the local forecast for your destination before traveling.
Money currency
Mexico’s currency is the Mexican Peso ($). Like Canada, there is a 16% tax on everything. Also, a 15-20% tip is the standard in the country. It is never mandatory, but it is always appreciated if you feel like the person deserves it. There is usually no fee when getting money out of an ATM. That’s why you can’t wait to be in the country before getting money out. Also, if you don’t want to carry a large amount of cash on you, you should always try to pay by card.
US dollars are also accepted in the country. However, you cannot get US dollars in Mexico at an ATM. You need to have the money before traveling. + They usually charge more when you pay in US dollars.
What to eat
There’s no breakfast, lunch and dinner in Mexico. The main meal of the day is La Comida, between 2 pm and 4 pm. Before and after that, people snack on light meals and tacos.
The typical food in Mexico is, of course, tacos, chilaquiles, tamales, fajitas, burritos, tostadas, elote (grilled corn) and so much more. I hope I don’t surprise you when I say that Mexican food is absolutely delicious and known in many countries. No matter what you eat, your taste buds will be happy!
Basic words to know
One of my favorite preparations, when I travel, is to learn some basic words in the language of the country I am going to. It only takes a couple of minutes every day, and I find it makes all the difference to bond and be respectful with the locals. Of course, you don’t need to know all of them, but only a couple can take you a long way! Here are all the basics I like to know to have smoother conversations with Mexican people:
- Hello – Hola
- How are you? – Como está?
- Excuse me – Lo siento or Disculpe
- Thank you – Gracias
- Yes – Sí
- No – No
- Please – Por favor
- You’re welcome – De nada
- Have a nice day – Que tengas un buen día
- Good morning – Buen días
- Good afternoon – Buenas tardes
- Good night – Buenas noches
- Goodbye – Adiós
- Where is … – Dónde està … ?
- What is your name? – Cómo te llamas?
- Do you speak English? – Hablas inglés?
How to use your phone / SIM card
The most affordable and easy way to have access to your phone is to buy a SIM card directly in Mexico. You’ll have to go to an Oxxo (the most common Mexican convenience store) and ask for a Telcel SIM card. The one we bought (like in the picture below) was 80 pesos (6,50$ CAD) for 4,5G for one person. There are other options depending on your needs for your travel!
With Telcel, you have access to Chrome, Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram and Snapchat.
If you don’t want to pay for a SIM card, don’t worry, there’s Wi-Fi in every hostel/hotel and many restaurants. Most of the time, when I go to Central America, I don’t pay for a SIM card. Instead, I download the maps before I go there (either on Maps.me or Google Maps).
Some facts
Here are some fun facts about Mexico:
- Mexico is home to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itzá.
- Cuexcomate, the world’s smallest volcano, is located in Mexico. It stands at just 43 feet tall.
- Do you like butterflies? If so, you will be happy to learn that the Monarch butterfly migrates from Canada to Mexico every year.
- Mexico is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world.
- Mexico is the birthplace of chocolate, 4,000 years ago.
Insurance
Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.
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Different accommodation options
Villas/Apartments: Renting a villa/apartment is definitely the most eye-pleasing option. You can find some crazy original stays! Most of the time it is equipped like an apartment, so you will have a fridge and a cooking space. It will be pricier, but you can save on eating out if you cook at your villa. It is a good option for families or if you are a big group of people. You can split the price, and it can be more fun than being all separate in hotel rooms.
Hotels: Hotels are a classic. There are plenty of them with a huge price range. You will be well welcomed and have access to services you don’t get in a villa. Some hotels have spas, some have yoga classes and so much more. Your room will get cleaned every day, and you will have access to room service. If you are an anxious person, hotels are your best option. You will definitely feel more secure since there is always someone working nearby.
Hostels: If you are a backpacker, this is the cheapest option for you. It is less luxurious, less comfortable, less a lot of things. But it is an amazing experience to live while you are young. You will have one bed in a shared room with others. This is the best way to meet people if you are traveling solo. Some hostels have group activities to help with that. You are young, your back is not broken yet, and you can sleep in a less comfortable space in exchange for living an incredible experience.
Essential apps to have
Transport:
- Download Uber
You order your car knowing already the price it will cost. You know when your driver will be there, and you have the option of paying cash or directly with your card on the app. I always prefer to pay by card. This way I didn’t have to carry much cash and could leave a tip on the app.
Places to stay:
- Booking: You will find all three types of accommodation.
- Airbnb: You will find amazing and original villas/apartments.
- Hostelworld: This is an app for hostels only. You will find the best ones with an amazing rating system to help you make your choice. There are also group chats on the app with the people who will be staying at the same place as you.
Others:
- Maps.me: You can download any maps and use them without Wi-Fi.
- WhatsApp: It’s a classic. Everyone in Central America uses WhatsApp to text and call.
