mexico city business travel

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This section on business travel provides an overview of business customs and travel tips that may be useful during your time working in Mexico.

Business Customs

Mexican businesspeople in major cities place a great deal of importance on appearances, and in many settings generally dress more formally than in most U.S. cities. We recommend wearing professional attire when meeting with prospective business partners in Mexico, and it is advisable to avoid overly casual clothes and athletic shoes when going out to business meals.

Being sensitive to typical business hours and mealtimes is extremely important. It is not uncommon for offices to open at 10:00 a.m. and for people to work until 8:00 p.m. or later. This means that during the week, many Mexicans follow a pattern of five meals, with desayuno consisting of fruit or a pastry between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. before going to work, a somewhat heavier almuerzo around 10:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m., a heavy lunch called comida generally after 2:00 p.m., an evening snack called merienda, and/or a light dinner or cena after 8 p.m. Don’t try to schedule a meeting between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. unless it is a lunch meeting.

The business lunch is a key tool in Mexico. Use it to build relationships and discuss matters in greater leisure. Before beginning a business discussion, it is common to discuss family, recent events, or other social themes. Mexican businesspeople and government contacts may smoke and drink during business meals. Business lunches can span two hours or more and, again, usually do not begin until 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. Many restaurants do not open for lunch before 1:30 p.m. and most restaurants do not begin offering dinner before 7:30 p.m.

Patience is key when doing business in Mexico. Business meetings in Mexico will often take longer than they would in the United States. Mexican social etiquette often includes more small talk before business. Social custom makes it difficult to say no. Therefore, “yes” does not always mean yes. In conversation, Mexicans emphasize tactful and indirect phrasing, and may be more effusive than Americans with praise and emotional expressions. Email communication may be significantly more formal than it is in U.S. practice, and it is courteous to mirror this formality in your own correspondence. The mobile messaging application WhatsApp is popular for quick, informal communications. Do not be overly aggressive while negotiating. It is considered rude.

The concept of time is flexible in Mexico. Guests to social events (except in the case of cities in the North) can arrive up to an hour late. However, punctuality is the norm for most business and government appointments.

Business cards are used extensively. Come with a large supply. Mexican pesos are used throughout the country. It is not legal or common to pay with U.S. dollars (although in border regions and tourist areas dollars are sometimes accepted).

Travel Advisory

The State Department provides a security assessment of every state in Mexico. All U.S. travelers and investors to the country are strongly encouraged to review the State Department’s  Mexico Travel Advisory and other country-specific travel information. We also recommend you register your trips through the Safe Traveler Enrollment Program , which will allow you to receive security updates and instructions in the event of a natural disaster or other incident.

Visa Requirements

If a U.S. businessperson wants to reside in Mexico and work on a more permanent basis, it is necessary to obtain a Temporary Mexico Resident Card, which has a validity of up to four years.

For definitive immigration regulations from the Government of Mexico, please review the information on immigration law and regulations (in Spanish only).

All U.S. citizens must have a passport or passport card to enter Mexico. Passport cards can be used only to cross into Mexico within 13 miles from the border. Passports are required for air travel or for land border travel when visiting any state in Mexico that is outside of this border zone. There is a single visa form for tourist and business visitors, valid for 180 days upon entry with no fee.  

A new system was implemented in 2023 that replaced the old Visitor Card (the Forma Migratoria Múltiple or FMM). The new system involves a stamp (sello migratorio) called the Forma Migratoria Múltiple Digital or FMMD. Passengers arriving at land crossings or any of Mexico’s 66 international airports will receive the stamp in their passports that shows the date of arrival and length of stay allowed (up to 180 days without a visa). Upon departure, air travelers may be asked to show their stamp at the airline’s ticket counter. If you enter Mexico by land, make sure to get the FMMD stamp in your passport.

Additionally, the Mexico City airports (both AIFA and Benito Juarez) and Cancun airport are currently using a new system for tourists called Filtros Migratorios Autonomos (E-Gates), which is scheduled to be rolled out nationwide later in 2023. Tourists who carry regular passports with a chip from the United States, United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, and Mexicans with dual citizenship can choose to use the E-Gates system instead of going through an immigration official to get a stamp. Tourist travelers just need to scan the passport at the E-Gates booth, and it will print a ticket with their arrival information and indicate a 180-day valid stay. The E-Gates booth will also take a photo of the traveler’s face. The ticket issued by the E-Gates is official and valid to check-in with the airline when departing Mexico. The E-Gates system is not for residents of Mexico, whether permanent or temporary, but for tourists only. 

For further information please visit the Mexican Secretariat of Tourism website .

United States companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States are advised that security evaluations are handled via an interagency process. Applicants for a U.S. visa should go to the following links:

• State Department Visa Website
• U.S. Embassy Mexico Visa Information

Expedited Entry into the U.S. and Mexico

Members of the U.S. Global Entry program know how convenient it is for entry into the United States. Global Entry allows U.S. citizens and residents of select countries, including Mexico, who have applied and been approved to have expedited entry at airport immigration and customs facilities when returning to the United States. Global Entry membership also gives you access to SENTRI lanes at the U.S.-Mexico land border. If you are not a Global Entry member, you can get more information and apply at the Global Entry website .

Mexico has a similar program for frequent travelers entering Mexico by air called the Programa Viajero Confiable (Trusted Traveler Program). Members of Viajero Confiable who are Mexican Nationals can now also apply for NEXUS to have expedited entry at airports in Canada.

Viajero Confiable provides similar benefits for entering Mexico and is in operation at airports in Mexico City, San Jose del Cabo, and Cancun. The application may be done online. Once preapproved, applicants must undergo an interview at an enrollment center at one of the three Mexican airports for final approval. Membership is good for five years and you can apply at the program website .

NEXUS offers benefits at airport and land border ports of entry in Canada. For more information visit the NEXUS website .

Those who cross the U.S. land border regularly but do not need the full benefits of Global Entry might be interested in membership in SENTRI, open to all nationalities who meet membership criteria. Information on the program is available at the SENTRI website .

Mexico’s currency is the Mexican peso. In the first half of 2022, the average exchange rate was approximately 20 pesos to the U.S. dollar, with the U.S. dollar steadily losing value in 2023 to around 17 pesos to the U.S. dollar in July 2023. In most cities and tourist areas, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in established businesses. There is usually easy access to ATMs that accept U.S. ATM networks. Take the usual precautions to prevent skimming or theft of your card and banking information, including your PIN, and be cautious of anyone approaching you at ATM machines.

Telecommunications/Electronics

Telephone Services

In Mexico, cellular telephones and smart phones are used by 75.5 percent of the population. On mobile devices, country codes may be dialed with a plus sign (+) before the country code. Mexico’s country code is +52 and it is +1 for the United States. The three main mobile carriers are Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T, and all offer national coverage and international roaming services. Telcel and AT&T offer packages with no roaming charges throughout North America, available through T-Mobile and AT&T in the United States.

Internet Services

According to the Federal Institute of Telecommunications (Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones or IFT) 72 percent of the population above six years old has Internet access in Mexico. Tourist and business hotels provide Internet services in rooms or in business centers. Internet hotspots are common. Free Wi-Fi is offered in select public spaces through the government-sponsored Internet para Todos (Internet for Everyone) program, and most restaurants and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Mexico still has many Internet cafes that offer Internet access for a fee.

Electricity

Mexico uses the same voltage (120v) and the same size wall plugs as the United States.

Transportation

Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana, Querétaro, and other Mexican cities have frequent direct and non-stop flights from major U.S. cities. American carriers to Mexico include American, Delta, United, Jet Blue, and Southwest. Mexican carriers providing scheduled service within Mexico include Aeromexico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus.

Taxis, Uber, and Road Transportation

It is important to ONLY use registered sitio taxi services or application-based car services such as Uber throughout the country, including using only the taxi vendor booths located INSIDE the airports. For Uber or other app-based services such as Cabify, you will need to check if there is service in your city of destination, download the app, and configure a profile and payment account (preferably prior to arrival). Hotels and restaurants can also call a sitio or radio taxi for you. The taxi driver will provide you with a receipt (un recibo) upon request. For airport taxis, the receipt is usually the pre-paid stub from your ticket. App-based services may face local restrictions. For more information, please see the State Department’s Mexico Travel Advisory .

Airport Arrivals

The Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport offers a fixed price taxi service to any point in the city. You can pay with a credit card or pesos, and you purchase tickets at one of several taxi company booths just after exiting the customs area. The fare from the airport to most areas within the city can vary widely as Mexico City is so large but should average MXN 200-350 for car service (rates are higher for a SUV). Alternatively, travelers can use the Uber app for an airport pickup and to move around Mexico City. Allow time for travel to and from the airport to major hotels. While the trip can take as little as 20 minutes in light traffic in the middle of the night, the same trip can take nearly two hours if accidents, demonstrations, rain, or other occurrences disrupt traffic.

The Monterrey General Mariano Escobedo Airport has a very similar taxi service. The fare to most locations in Monterrey is about MXN 250-300. With your ticket in hand, exit the lobby, and an attendant from the taxi company will guide you to your taxi. Alternatively, travelers can use the Uber app for an airport pickup and to move around Monterrey. Airport and Flight Information is available by calling +52 (81) 8345 4434.

The fare from Guadalajara International Airport to most locations in Guadalajara is about MXN 260-420. The trip from the airport to Guadalajara can take up to 45 minutes, depending upon traffic. Uber pickups from Guadalajara’s airport are restricted and it is better to take a sitio taxi by prepurchasing the fare from the TAXI booth located immediately after exiting customs. For airport and flight Information, call +52 (33) 3688-5894.

Sitio taxi services and Uber (depending upon location) are available at other airports and hotels around the country as well.

Spanish is the official language of Mexico. While many people in the large cities speak some English, it may be difficult for them to conduct detailed business discussions. Non Spanish-speaking visitors to Mexico should consider hiring an interpreter for formal business meetings. It is considered courteous for U.S. businesspeople to speak a few words of Spanish. Many mid and high-level government officials and business executives speak English, and many are U.S.-educated.

A high standard of medical care is available in the principal cities, especially from the main private hospitals and doctors. Many private Mexican doctors have U.S. training and speak English. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains a website with health recommendations for travelers at CDC - Travel.

The Embassy and Consulates maintains a List of Doctors and Hospitals in Mexico . The U.S. Embassy does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms whose names appear on the above lists.

In case of medical emergency, U.S. citizens may call the American Citizen Services sections at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate for help. Please find additional information and contacts for all U.S. consulate locations in Mexico at Mission Mexico - Locations .

Mexico does have health concerns. You should take normal tourist precautions regarding drinking water and eating uncooked items such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads. Some individuals react to the pollution and high altitude of various cities, so take things slowly at first. Travelers to Mexico City may require some time to adjust to the altitude (7,400 feet), which can adversely affect blood pressure, digestion, sleep, and energy level. Individuals with the sickle cell trait should consult with the appropriate medical unit or their personal physician before commencing travel. Visitors on short-term assignments carry an added risk because of the lack of time to acclimate. Dehydration, stress, or illnesses compound the basic risks of high altitude. For more information, contact your health provider.

Please note that health insurance is an important consideration. Travelers are responsible for ensuring that they have adequate health coverage while in Mexico.

Mexico has no entry restrictions related to COVID-19 and there is no obligation to carry a COVID-19 test or to quarantine upon arrival. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nonetheless encourages visitors to Mexico to be up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. The CDC has issued a Travel Alert Level 2 “Practice Enhanced Precaution for Mexico” stemming from recent cases of fungal meningitis infections and multidrug-resistant Salmonella outbreaks. Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC’s specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.  

Local Time, Business Hours, and Holidays

Mexico spans several time zones. From the Yucatán Peninsula to Tijuana, there is a three-hour time difference. Mexico City and Central Mexico are on Central Standard Time (CST). Mexico passed a law in October 2022 regulating time zones in the country. Some cities that used to implement Daylight Saving Time will discontinue the practice in 2023. Going forward, Mexico City, Mérida, Monterrey, Hermosillo, Nogales, and Guadalajara will not observe Daylight Saving Time. Ciudad Juarez, Matamoros, Nuevo Laredo, and Tijuana will continue to observe Daylight Savings Time.

Listed below are Mexican holidays for 2023. On these days, banks will not open, and most businesses will be closed. Be aware of the popular “puentes,” which is the local term for when holidays fall near the weekend and create a three-day weekend. As in the United States, holidays falling on a Thursday, Friday, Monday, or Tuesday are rapidly converted into long weekends and are not a good time to schedule business trips. Also review the Business Customs topic above for notes on business hours and mealtimes.

Mexican Holiday Schedule (July 2023-December 2023)

• September 16, Saturday, Mexican Independence Day
• November 2, Thursday, All Souls’ Day (“Day of the Dead”)
• November 20, Monday, Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution
• December 25, Monday, Christmas Day
• January 1, Monday, New Year’s Day

Temporary Entry of Materials or Personal Belongings

Please refer to the Customs, Regulations, and Standards topic in the Temporary Entry section of this guide.

Mexico City Travel Guide for Business Travel

Once disregarded for a sprawling, over-crowded and polluted metropolis, Mexico City has worked to clean it’s streets and skies to become a profitable business destination. With a population of more than 22 million people, the city is home to a thriving cultural heritage and industries like food, tobacco, construction and financial services. With experience planning luxury, worldwide business travel for executives, BlueOrange Travel is sharing their Mexico City travel guide to make your next trip to the capital city efficient, seamless and enjoyable.

Follow This Mexico City Travel Guide on Your Next Business Trip

Ideally located.

Because of its central location on the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico City is ideally placed to be a business hub in Central America. This position also makes it easy to travel here for a quick business trip or a more extended stay. Aeromexico is the primary carrier at Benito Juarez International Airport, but all the major carriers will fly into the city from international destinations. The airport is located about 20 minutes from downtown, making it both convenient and accessible.

Where to Stay

In Mexico City, business meetings and deals are often made outside of the office and in the city’s luxury hotels. Consider staying at one of the larger hotels known for its style and elegance to accommodate meetings such as this.

The Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City is located on Paseo de la Reforma, the city’s most famous boulevard. With a Spanish-style courtyard, central location and luxurious rooms, the Four Seasons is popular for business travelers.

The Presidente InterContinental Mexico City offers some of the largest guest rooms in the city with sweeping views of the bustling downtown. The contemporary style provides a perfect backdrop for six restaurants, a soothing spa and meeting rooms for business.

DOWNTOWN MEXICO combines 17th-century grandeur with industrial touches in the historic heart of the city.  This boutique-style hotel provides visitors with unique luxury and a rooftop pool, making it a favorite spot for relaxing after business is complete.

Getting Around

Because of Mexico City’s move toward green infrastructure, the city’s Metro system is fast, safe and extensive. Count on the system to get you to your client’s offices or to landmarks throughout the city during your stay for about five pesos (or 30 cents) per ride.

If you’d like to travel more privately, or if you’re traveling after midnight when the metro is closed, then look for the pink-and-white taxis with CDMX printed on the sides. These government-licensed taxis have a guaranteed fair with rates comparable to those in the US, and the tip is typically included in the price.

Soak Up the Culture

In addition to the city’s booming business scene, Mexico City provides a cultural Mecca for Central America. With a rich and diverse history, the area’s local arts are represented in murals, sculptures and architecture around the city.

Don’t miss the opulent Palacio de Bellas Artes to see the marble performance hall and museum that features murals by famous artist Diego Rivera. Make time for the National Museum of Anthropology that features artifacts from ancient Mayan civilizations, or take a longer trip to see Pyramid of the Sun in nearby Teotihuacan.

The rich history of Mexico City is complimented by a growing industrial and business persona. Travelers who visit the metropolis for business are greeted with stunning art and architecture, delicious dining choices and luxury accommodations. Follow BlueOrange Travel’s Mexico City travel guide the next time you visit Central America, and contact BlueOrange to plan all of your business travel.

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Mexico City Dress Code

Loose, light fabrics are favored in the Mexico City climate. Daytime wear is cool and casual with suits not necessarily required for business, although this depends on the occasion as more formal meetings require formal dress, such as a suit and tie or tailored dress. Some people prefer to be slightly dressier for the evening, and several of the more expensive hotels and restaurants may expect a suit and tie or similar clothing. A warm jacket can be useful as the evenings can become cool.

Greeting Someone in Mexico City

Generally, most people address each other on first-name terms. The standard business greeting is a handshake. However, Mexico City is a great deal more formal than the resort towns, as might be expected for a city of its size, and people here can be less friendly than elsewhere in Mexico - so bear this in mind.

Mexico City Business Hours and Banking

In Mexico City, most offices are open from 09:00 to 17:00 or even 19:00, Monday to Friday. Most people leave for the afternoon meal around 14:00 and take between 1 and 2 hours. The Mexican government normally works from 10:00 to 20:00 (if not later) lunch is usually one hour sometimes two and is taken somewhere between 14:00 and 17:00. All banks are open from 09:00 to 13:30, Monday to Friday. Branches in Mexico City center tend to operate from 8:00 to 19:00.

Mexico City Smoking

Mexican restaurants are keen to offer areas that cater for those who smoke and those who don't, with some operating complete No-Smoking policies. In business, it is advisable to refrain and take cues from the host.

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Summer 2017

Mexico city, mexico.

The Mexican capital should not be overlooked based on an out of date reputation. Its buzzing cosmopolitan atmosphere, environmental commitments and rich culture will not fail to charm

Headlines over the years have steadily generated a less-than-favourable reputation for Mexico City, painting it as dirty, dangerous, polluted and violent. Such reputations are sticky, and many remain somewhat hesitant about venturing to the city. And yet, a lot has changed over the past decade or so. The sprawling metropolis of 22 million people has so much to discover that people rarely visit just once.

It is certainly true that in the 1990s, pollution levels in the city were among the highest in the world. At present, however, the issue is far from being one of the city’s distinguishing characteristics. A concerted effort by government officials has drastically improved air quality and scrubbed up Mexico City’s once-grubby streets.

The city’s transport chief, Secretary Tanya Müller García, has recently been quoted passing on tips to London’s own authorities as to how best they might achieve cleaner air. Indeed, according to the World Health Organisation, one is now more likely to die in the UK as a result of pollution-related illnesses than in Mexico.

Forget what you’ve heard Another reputation that continues to plague the city is its association with crime, kidnappings, corruption and narcotics-related violence. Once again, this status is largely out of date. While it cannot be said that crime has been driven out altogether, the city is certainly much safer than it once was.

Although it would be wise for visitors to take certain precautions with regards to taxis and pickpockets, the city’s wider reputation for violent crimes is altogether rather inflated. Indeed, while Mexico’s drug battles and homicide rates often feature in the international press, Mexico City itself has become something close to a safe haven. A single glance at its much-maligned homicide rates would indicate that it is actually safer than the likes of New Orleans, Detroit and Baltimore.

Mexico City is establishing a name for itself as a tech hub and thriving modern business environment

Today, Mexico City is establishing a name for itself as a tech hub and thriving modern business environment. The business world, for one, is beginning to take note of the city’s remarkable progress. Drawn by Mexico City’s tourism appeal, MICE tourism has been rapidly accelerating in recent years – indeed, according to the International Congress and Convention Association’s annual statistics report, Mexico City beat Washington DC, New York City, Geneva and Dubai in the global ranking of meetings per city last year.

A cultural Mecca This booming business scene no doubt comes down the fact that Mexico City presents a unique opportunity to mesh business and culture. Not only is the city an important financial centre and a global economic hub, it is often described as the cultural Mecca of Latin America. Illustratively, it is even possible to host business events in the house where Frida Kahlo once lived.

Mexico City has long been an important artistic and political hub, and its fascinating history inevitably seeps through into its modern day culture. In the early 19th century, it was called “the city of the palaces” by Prussian scientist Baron Alexander von Humboldt, who allegedly sent a letter home saying that it could rival any major city in Europe.

The city has since endured decades of Spanish colonisation and a bloody fight for independence, but this nickname has stuck, becoming something of a city motto. Today, while its streets are lined with a charming mélange of cafés, plazas, galleries and street food vendors, many of Mexico City’s ancient palaces and other historical treasures are still standing.

Visiting Mexico City, one cannot fail to pick up on its remarkable energy. The combination of its teeming cosmopolitan atmosphere, superb cuisine, sprawling nightlife and wealth of art and history make it a truly unforgettable destination.

For further information: 

mexicocity.com

Home > Mexico > Mexico City Travel Tips

Mexico City Travel Tips: 20 Dos and Don'ts No One Tells You

Make Mexico City Your Even Favorite-er City

These travel tips are part of our local, loco, (not) low-cal Mexico City blog , which includes our city guide , favorite local food , why bike , and report on pulque .

Mexico City is our favorite city to visit over and over again. And even though we think we know the city pretty well by now, every time we go we learn a few things that make it our even favorite-er city. These things we've learned are the Mexico City travel tips we're sharing below.

If you haven’t been before, these tips will probably make Mexico City your favorite city too. And if this ain’t your first rodeo a) You obviously have great taste in travel destinations, and b) Prepare to make your tastes even tastier.

Either way, these Mexico City travel tips will upgrade your perception of the DF CDMX.

Tips for your Trip

These Mexico City travel tips are split into four sections. Jump to directly to any one by clicking these shortcut links:

• Upon Arrival
• While in Mexico City
• Things Not to Do
• Before Leaving

As Soon As You Arrive in Mexico City

✓  get a cell phone sim.

You're going to need data in Mexico City to use Uber and the EcoBici shared bikes ( see below ), so get a SIM card immediately upon arriving. Dealing with a cell phone company is far from the most pleasant way to start your trip, but it'll make your trip more pleasant.

You can get a local SIM in the airport at the Telcel office in Terminal 1 or at an Oxxo or 7-11. They'll help you set it up. Here's what you need to get started:

• A SIM card. This shouldn't cost more than 150 pesos. It should come with  and it should come with some "welcome credit."
• A basic Amigo Sin Limite plan. Get the 50 peso one, which entitles you to 7 days of unlimited calling and messages to Mexico, USA, and Canada and 300 MB of data. This likely will be included with the cost of your SIM card.
• An Internet Amigos plan for extra data. It costs 150 pesos for 1 GB.

Tip:   By default, Telcel sets up your account so that if you add credit ( una recarga in Spanish) it will automatically be used to buy the most expensive Amigos Sin Limite plan possible. To have more control over what you buy when you do a recarga, ask that they change your account accordingly.

More Tips: Read this more detailed guide to SIM cards in Mexico  if you're still in doubt.

T-Mobile User?: Eric comments below that your phone will work just the same as in the US (and France, Germany, Japan, and other countries), for no extra charge.

✓  Withdraw as many pesos as possible

In the interest of reducing the number of ATM trips you need to make and foreign withdrawal fees, take out as much cash as you can all at once. You're going to need it. Cash is still king in Mexico City and it will remain that way until business owners can no longer dodge taxes by taking it as payment.

Don't worry about withdrawing more than you need. As you'll soon discover in our final Mexico City travel tip below, you can actually make money off any pesos you haven't spent by the end of your trip!

Bank of America client?: Eric comments that you can make withdrawals from Scotiabank ATMs free of charge and with the prime rate so long as you refuse the insurance and say No to the proposed exchange rate at the last step of your withdrawal.

✓  Buy a plug-in mosquito repelling device

One of the few things that suck about Mexico City is the mosquitos. There aren't swarms like in the Amazon or Northern Canada, but they still have a remarkable ability to ruin your sleep.

Nothing 60 pesos ($3 USD) can't fix, though.

At the nearest convenience store or supermarket, pick up a little white plug-in device that uses blue tabs, put in a socket near your bed every night, and enjoy a blissful sleep.

We swear by the things. Our last two times in Mexico City, we "donated blood" for a couple nights, got fed up, got a mosquito repelling thing, and slept blissfully from then on.

Note: The things don't seem to exist on Amazon. We looked. Just get one when you arrive.

✓  Sign up for EcoBici

Despite the popular belief that Mexican traffic is as loco as swallowing a habanero whole, Mexico City is actually a surprisingly bike-friendly city. Side roads are mostly empty, the roads are flat, and drivers are more likely to honk one of those custom Mexican sexy whistle horns at you than an angry one.

If you're comfortable biking, sign up for EcoBici, Mexico City's bike share program, as soon as possible.

To give you an idea of how handy it is, in our most recent week in town we did over 40 rides covering 150 km.

For everything you need to know to spice up your Mexico City trip with EcoBici, including its pros and cons, how to use it, where to use it, and whether it's safe for you or not, don't miss our guide .

Warning: As Marcia learned the hard way and warns in the comments, don't sign up for EcoBici until you are ready to use it, because your account automatically initiates upon payment.

Related: How to Experience More of CDMX, Faster, by Using EcoBici

Travel Tips for a Better Time in Mexico City

✓  ask for samples at restaurants.

If you're unsure of which sauce, mole, or pulque flavor to order at a restaurant, ask for samples. Just about every restaurant and bar will be happy to oblige. That way you'll make the right choice every time and experience more flavors. Plus it's free.

✓  Get on the rooftops

The Google search results for "Best rooftop bar in Mexico City" suck. The places that show up in the results are higher-end than they are high up, often covered, and have no views.

We know because we went up to each of them and generally came back down quickly and unimpressed.

But we found a few worth climbing the stairs up to (…or pushing the button in the elevator).

Mexico City Rooftop Bars:

• Terraza Catedral , has 35 peso draft beers and views of the Zocalo. It's better than El Mayor's rooftop bar and restaurant three blocks down the way. On weekdays it's "open at 1 p.m." (not really; see tip below) to the public. On weekends it opens at 6 p.m. and there's a cover fee.
• El Balcon del Zocalo's name is self-explanatory. It's ideal for a fancier welcome or goodbye dinner.
• Pulqueria Insurgentes doesn't have a view, but its got a refreshingly airy and unpretentious rooftop. On Sundays, their pulque is buy-one-get-one-free, and on Mondays all alcoholic drinks are half-priced.

Save these bars' locations and those of 19 more of our favorite restaurants, cafés, and street food right to your phone's Google Maps by getting our free Mexico City treasures map, below .

✓  Burn off those buns (and tortillas)

Without a doubt, the best part about Mexico City is the food. The more food you eat, the better your trip will be. So how do you eat as much as humanly possible?

Working up an appetite with exercise.

Here are some fun (and mostly free) places to get your non-habanero-induced sweat on:

• Hapi Fitness (first class 100 pesos): You'll be thinking "help-me" not "hapi" while doing a Hapi Fitness class, but we guarantee you'll be happy afterward. What's more, you'll emerge from the studio and find yourself right inside Dosis Cafe, where you can immediately reward yourself with a tasty pastry.
• Park 54   (1st class free): Quick, dirty, and sweaty, Park 54's group circuit workouts will get you pumped and pump you up for a big day.
• Gandhi Circuit in Chapultapec Park  (Public, see Google Maps ): This 1-km loop through the trees with a small workout area in the middle is a good spot for a breath huff-and-puff of fresh air.
• Outdoor calisthenic parks  (Public): You can find chin-up bars and other apparatus for doing bodyweight workouts right beside Insurgentes metro station, in Parque Espana, in front of Qi Fitness in Condesa, and in the Centro.

Related: 9 Fun & Fast Tricks We Use to Stay Fit While Traveling

✓  Venture into a pulqueria

Pulque is kombucha with attitude. It's a gut-friendly fermented drink with 3-to-8-percent alcohol that you can only find within a day's drive Mexico's high plains.

It's not necessarily taste-bud friendly, though. Raw pulque is an acquired taste whose appeal is hurt by the fact that people too often compare its texture to that of semen. But if you give it a chance, get a curado that's blended with fruits, and compare it to yogurt-mixed-with-beer instead of sperm, there's a good chance you'll enjoy it.

Even if you can't swallow the stuff, pulquerias are worth venturing into for their dive-y, old school atmosphere and for the chance to meet the curious characters who you'll be drinking beside.

As for which pulqueria to go to, as a general rule of thumb the farther the pulqueria is from tourist attractions, the better.

If you're interested in trying this "kombucha on steroids," make sure to check our guide to its up-and-down-and-up-again history, amazing nutritional benefits, and where to get it in Mexico City.

✓  At least stay in the Condesa / Roma Norte area

As we explain in the neighborhood overview of our Mexico City first-timers' guide , it's the ideal area to base your stay. It's central, safe, cosmopolitan, and has tons of places for eating, shopping, exercising, and eating some more.

Condesa / Roma Norte has plenty of boutique hotels and hostels. If we were rich or it were our honeymoon, we'd stay at the Nima Local House or La Valise .

Related: Quick and Dirty Mexico City First-Timers' Guide

✓  Read these other blogs' Mexico City travel tips

Here are a couple other posts with not-obvious, original, and actually helpful Mexico City travel tips:

• What not to Do in Mexico City: Advice from a Local , by Northern Lauren
• 17 Things to Know Before You Go to Mexico City , by Explore Parts Unknown

✓  Try these tips and tricks to change the way you travel

You're sure to find at least one idea that will change the way you travel in our list of our best travel tips and tricks . It has everything from advanced, experimental travel tips and tricks to practical but oft-overlooked ones to dumb advice we hear others give too often (and what to do instead).

What NOT to Do in Mexico City

✗  Don't be a wuss

Worried that your ice cubes might be made from tap water?

Suck it up and suck down your drink anyways.

Wondering where that food's been and how long it's been sitting out?

Tell your selfish yuppy gut bacteria they need to make some Mexican friends. It's good for all of you.

Concerned that you'll stick out like a sore thumb in a poorer neighborhood?

Hate to break it to you, but the people in those neighborhoods are too preoccupied with more important things to care about your presence.

Get over yourself and don't be a wuss.

✗  Don't look like a tourist

Even if you're a big, light-haired, fair-skinned guy like Chris you  should at least try to look like a local resident instead of a tourist.

That means no flip-flops under any circumstances, and no shorts unless it's blisteringly hot outside.

Otherwise, it's so obvious you're a tourist that you may as well wear your national flag as a cape, paint your face in the same colors, and fan yourself with 500 peso bills.

✗  Don't pay for water

You know how full-serve gas station attendants try to upsell you on premium gas and you have to say, "No, just regular, please"? Well that's how it is with water at restaurants in Mexico City.

When you ask for water your waiter will default to bringing you an expensive bottle. But if you ask the right way, they'll begrudgingly give you a glass of filtered water for free.

Ask for " agua del filtro ." Most likely, the server will pretend not to understand at first, so insist. Say, " Un vaso de agua del garrafon " (a glass from the jug). Repeat if necessary.

The waiter will eventually relent and bring you your water, saving you some pesos and saving the environment from another empty bottle.

✗  Don't wait in super long in lines

Here's a hot travel take: Anything you need to wait around in line with other tourists for is not worth doing.

For example, unless you're such a Frida fan that you've grown a unibrow in her honor, it's not worth it (unless you buy in advance, as per the tip below). Also, instead of waiting to blow your pesos with other hip gringos at Hotel Condesa's bar, get some pulque at Pulqueria Insurgentes. And rather than wait forever for a pastry from Rosetta go up the street to the much more spacious Cafe NIN, which has the exact same treats minus the line.

But when it comes to less-touristy attractions, don't be scared off by rumors of lineups. Three of our favorite food spots —Fonda Margarita, Esquina Chilaquil, and Tacos Don Juan—were said to have hour-plus long lines, but in all three cases we waited no more than twenty minutes. We suspect the locals exaggerate to keep annoying tourists away.

Tip: Save yourself a couple of hours waiting to get into the Frida museum by buying tickets in advance on this site or doing a tour, like this this highly-rated Airbnb experience , that includes VIP skip-the-line entry. (Thanks to Nina for this tip. She also recommends paying extra for a guide or audio tour, which she regrets not doing.)

✗  Don't go anywhere when it's close to its opening or closing hours

Based on our experience, opening and closing hours are suggestions in Mexico City, not reality.

Inevitably, the person running the shop, restaurant, or bar will have an excuse to open later than advertised and close earlier.

Being naive to this reality (perhaps due to Chris' always-on-time Swiss ancestry) and slow learners, we went but had to come back another time to four different places during our trip: Helado Obscuro, Terraza Catedral, Minichelista, and Pulqueria La Nuclear.

✗  Don't trust strangers who approach you in perfect English

We were minding our own business eating some Dorilokos near the Anthropology Museum when a frazzled-looking white guy approached. In perfect English, he rambled on about how he was robbed in a taxi and was desperate to catch his flight. He asked for twenty to thirty dollars for a taxi, saying he would repay us later via PayPal.

We asked him to screw off. There was a fluent-English speaking tourist booth beside us whose job it is to help out people like him, so he was clearly a scammer.

A similar situation happened near Bellas Artes with a guy at one of those three-cups-one-ball sleight-of-hand games who asked us to "help him out for a sec."

Long story short, if you have the face of a sucker like we apparently do, there's a decent chance you'll be approached by indecent people trying to scam you. If they have suspiciously good English, be suspicious.

If you feel bad, do something nice for a stranger when you get home to make up for it.

✗  Don't take taxis

We don't know about you, but we prefer not to pay more money to expose ourselves to a higher risk of getting ripped off and getting lost. That's why we use Uber in Mexico City.

As an example, an official taxi from the airport to Roma Norte costs 220 pesos. Uber costs 130. Use those 90 pesos you save towards getting yourself a Mexican SIM card ( see above ) so you can use Uber.

Don't overlook other forms of transit, too. Biking, the bus, and the metro can be faster and are certainly cheaper. See our Mexico City Guide for more on getting around.

Before You Leave Mexico City

✓  buy your souvenir mezcal or tequila in the city, not at the airport duty-free.

The selection of booze in Mexico City's airport duty-free is expensive and only has brands you can buy in liquor stores back home.

Get a cheaper, better, more unique bottle in town. Bundle it up before packing it in your check-in luggage, pray it doesn't get smashed en route, then share it with your friends while exaggerating about how sought-after the particular brand it is.

✓  Make some money on the exchange rate

Mexico City airport currency exchange booths will pay you to take US dollars off their hands.

For example, Chris exchanged 720 pesos to dollars at the end of our trip. According to the official exchange rate that day, those pesos should have been worth $36 USD. But they gave him $37. He made $1 profit, which is more than this blog earns him most days.

If you happen to have have $10K cash in your bank account, you can exploit this loophole to make hundreds of dollars.

Did you like this post? Pin it!

Read This Next:

These Mexico City travel tips are part of our Local, Loco, and (Not) Low-Cal Mexico City blog.

Discover a whole lot more tasty tips by completing the series:

Mexico City Guide: 12 F.A.Qs for 1st Timers

How to Eat Like a Local in Mexico City: 15 Surefire Favorites

How to Explore Mexico City by Bike

Pulque: A Guide to Mexico's Kombucha on Steroids

50+ Travel Tips and Tricks That Will Change the Way You Travel

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

26 thoughts on “Mexico City Travel Tips: 20 Dos and Don'ts No One Tells You”

Great tips for visiting Mexico city. I like how you promote visiting local places. You have a to be a bit extra cautious when visiting Mexico.

Thanks for the perspective Henry. I agree you have to be cautious when visiting Mexico, but honestly you have to be cautious in any foreign country. Even in Vancouver, where we are now, you can find yourself in trouble if you're naive and careless. As for CDMX specifically, based on our experience and that of our friends who've been there and lived there, I'd definitely say it's way, WAY safer than most people think. As safe as many American cities. But just like in those cities, you're right that you gotta be careful.

Thanks for the tips! I'm planning a trip to Mexico City for the first time in February and I'm curious to hear why you think the Frida Khalo museum isn't worth it. I was planning to get tickets in advance to try to avoid the lines, but I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Hey Olivia. That's a really fair question. The reason I'd say it's overrated is because of the huge line that wastes so much precious CDMX time and because people go because other people go, even if they don't give a crap about art or Kahlo. They may as well go to one of the many other, but less popular, museum. But if you can avoid the line by getting a ticket and if you go in already with a true appreciation of Kahlo and desire to learn more, then by all means it's a good idea. Most people don't fit those criteria, though.

"The Blue House" is a marvelous 'don't miss' home that reflects so much of who Frieda Kahlo was. Colorful, decorated in this artist's very particular taste. One of the few city spots to which I often return..I am an artist. Much of my work – water color and photography, is of Mejico…

"Fair skinned, blonde haired" I see you poking fun at yourself. Really appreciate the post, been trying to collect as much information as possible. We're headed to CDMX mid February. I didn't see any mention of Xochilmilco canals or the ruins of Teotithuacan. Any recommendations? Priced a potential tour but more expensive than expecting. We are thinking maybe uber and tour ourselves. Vale la pena?

Also, lucha libre, yes or no?

Thanks – Mary

Hi Mary, Thanks for the questions!

We share our brief takes on Xochimilco, Teotihuacan, and lucha libre in our "Quick and Dirty Mexico City Guide" . Of the three, we'd recommend lucha libre the highest… even though we haven't done it. All our friends who have, even those who we wouldn't suspect would like it, gave us rave reviews.

On the other two, in addition to what we write in the Quick and Dirty guide I'd say the biggest determinant of whether to go or not is how much time you have. We consider neither to be absolute "must dos" for trip of less than a week, especially since the time you lose going there and back is precious. And if you want to get out of town, it's possibly even worth considering a pueblo like Tepotzlan instead.

Whatever you decide, have a fantastic trip. And if you discover tips of your own, or ones of ours you disagree with (politely of course), please come back to share it!

"For example, unless you’re such a Frida fan that you’ve grown a unibrow in her honor, it’s not worth it."

Are you seriously suggesting that Casa Azul isn't worth the wait? Instead of skipping the museum, I'd suggest planning your day better. There's tours that help you skip the line.

Fair enough, Julia. Sorry maybe for making you frown so much you almost have a unibrow yourself.

I would bet that a good percentage of people waiting in line are waiting simple because everyone else said to go. They could either plan better like you say, or prioritize based on their own interests.

Yeah, don't take a taxi! Much better to support this Uber exploiter company. by the way: a bus or metro would be even cheaper. But that is too local perhaps.

From taxi scammers to uber exploiters. What's next in the evolution? You're right, Momo, that we should mention buses and metro here. I'll update the post. Thanks!

OMG This post had me absolutely cracking up! "Tell your yuppie gut to make some Mexican friends." LOL what an incredible line! I am heading to Mexico (but CDMX for only 2 days) and am so thankful I found this post! Great tips. We are going to the Frida Khalo house, but got skip the line tickets in advance, and though I'm not a huge fan of art and museums, do love her for all that she accomplished as a female Mexican artist. As a traveler watching the budget I definitely appreciate all the local and more affordable tips!

Hey Nina, Thanks. It's nice to hear at least some people appreciate my attempts at humor.

Now that you mention it, I should mention the skip-the-line option for Frida. Thanks!

If you come up with any other tips to add from your experience, let me know. If I like it, I'll add it and link to your site as a shout-out.

Buen viaje!

Any comments on airlines between cities in Mexico. I don't want to waste time taking 6 hour bus trips, but the airlines have lots of negative reviews. Thanks!

Sorry, Jaimee, but I've mostly bussed around Mexico so I don't have enough experience on the airlines to help out. Any other reader with tips, please chime in!

Hi Jaimee, I highly recommend flying with a Mexican airline. Just be aware of the extra costs for luggage (that's why I always travel only with hand luggage), especially with the cheaper airlines. I have tried many airlines like Volaris, Air Mexico, Aeromar, VivaAerobús and even small airplanes with only 12 passengers and they were all very reliable. Let me know if you have more questions. And enjoy Mexico!

Great tips, guys (and gals). Thank!!

Two more we can add from recent experience.

1) Bank of America partners with ScotiaBank for ATM service in MX (and much of Latin America?) There are no fees for using a BoA ATM card at a Scotiabank AND you get prime exchange rate BUT a) you have to refuse the insurance and b) you have to say NO to their proposed excange rate (which is the last question the ATM asks you). Also there is seldom a Scotiabank location where you need it.

Regarding Cell Phones, T-mobile is a German company, and therefore they are aware that there are other countries in the world besides the US. They have partners in MX, Japan, France and – not surprisingly – Germany (these we have used ourselves) plus MANY more countries. When you arrive in a country with a T-mobile partner, you receive a text from them welcoming you, and then magically, your phone works, calls, texts, data, the whole enchilada. It's almost like living in the 21st Century !!

Thanks, Eric! I've updated the post with these tips of yours. Hope you enjoyed/are enjoying CDMX!

It’s a little concerning that you’re downplaying water safety precautions. “Don’t be a wuss. Suck it up and suck up the water?” I work in travel medicine and traveler’s diarrhea is the #1 sickness people get while visiting other countries. Not to mention other food and water borne illnesses like typhoid fever and Hepatitis A that can be difficult to treat in other countries. Most travelers who are new to the area should indeed be taking these precautions seriously. Contracting one of these illnesses can completely ruin one’s trip. Also, your verbiage and choice of words like “suck” and poking fun at unibrows is distasteful.

Thanks for sharing your tastes, Rae. Truly. It helps other readers to have varying opinions.

I love your blogpost and loved Mexico City so much! It was actually nicer than I expected. I thought it would be hectic, dirty and loud, but it was such an amazing city. We stayed in Roma Norte, but this would not be my first choice for my next time, because it has a lively (gay) party scene. I would go to Condesa or Reforma next time. I also recommend getting a creditcard with pesos on it, because they do accept a card in many places. And my final advice: just go!

Amazing blog! Thank you for making me want to visit Mexico right now. I just wanna share I use this website https://www.holidayhare.com/city/mexico-city/4075 to check country/city info like weather, visa requirements etc. before I travel. 🙂

We are planning a trip to Mexico next year, I wanted to check out your airbnb links but they don't seem to be working. Can you provide that info again??

Hi Amanda. Sorry but it seems they're not available anymore, so I've removed them from this post. Thanks for the heads up. Enjoy your stay!

Love this but frustrating that i signed up for a 3 day ecobicci prior to my trip It starts today and expires before i even arrive! I thought it would start on my initiation Maybe you should warm people not to sign up till you are ready to use it

How annoying! Thanks for the warning, Marcia. I've added the heads up to the post.

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Mexico- Business Travel Mexico- Business Travel

Business customs.

Mexican business people in major cities place a great deal of importance on appearances, and in many settings generally dress more formally than in most U.S. cities. We recommend wearing professional attire when meeting with prospective business partners in Mexico and avoiding overly casual clothes and athletic shoes when going out to business meals.  Being sensitive to typical business hours and mealtimes is extremely important. It is not uncommon for offices to open at 9:30 or 10:00 a.m. and for people to work until 8 p.m. or later. This means that during the week, many Mexicans follow a pattern of five meals, with desayuno consisting of fruit or a pastry between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. before going to work, a somewhat heavier almuerzo around 10:30 or 11:30 a.m., a heavy lunch called comida generally after 2 p.m., an evening snack called merienda , and/or a light dinner or cena after 8 p.m. Don’t try to schedule a meeting between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. unless you intend for it to be a lunch meeting. The business lunch is a key tool in Mexico. Use it to build relationships and discuss matters in greater leisure. Before beginning a business discussion, it is common to discuss family, recent events, or other social themes. Mexican business people and government contacts may smoke and drink during business meals. Business lunches can span two hours or more and, again, usually do not begin until 2 or 3 p.m. Many restaurants do not open for lunch before 1:30 p.m. and most restaurants will not even begin offering dinner before 7:30 p.m. Patience is key when doing business in Mexico. Business meetings in Mexico will often take longer than they would in the United States. Mexican social etiquette often includes more small talk before business. Social custom makes it difficult to say no. Therefore, “yes” does not always mean yes. In conversation, Mexicans emphasize tactful and indirect phrasing, and may be more effusive than Americans with praise and emotional expressions. Email communication may be significantly more formal than it is in U.S. practice, and it is courteous to mirror this formality in your own emails. The mobile messaging application WhatsApp is popular for quick, informal communications. Do not be overly aggressive while negotiating. It is considered rude. The concept of time is flexible in Mexico. Guests to social events (except in the case of cities in the North) can arrive up to an hour late. However, punctuality is the norm for most business and government appointments. Business cards are used extensively. Come with a large supply. Mexican pesos are used throughout the country. It is not legal or common to pay with U.S. dollars (although in border areas and tourist areas dollars are sometimes accepted).

Travel Advisory

The State Department provides a security assessment of every state in Mexico. All U.S. travelers and investors to the country are strongly encouraged to visit the Department of State’s Travel Warning website . We also recommend you register your trips through the Safe Traveler Enrollment Program , which will allow you to receive security updates and instructions in the event of a natural disaster or other incident.

Visa Requirements

If a U.S. business person wants to reside in Mexico and work on a more permanent basis, it is necessary to obtain a Temporary Mexico Resident Card. This form may be obtained with validity up to one year, renewable up to a total of five years. For definitive immigration regulations from the Mexican Government, please review the information on the immigration work permit form and the overall immigration law and regulations . All U.S. citizens must have a passport or passport card to enter Mexico. Passport cards can be used only to cross into Mexico within 13 miles from the border. Passports are required for air travel or for land border travel when visiting any State of Mexico that is more than 13 miles from the border. There is a single visa form for tourist and business visitors, valid for 180 days upon entry with no fee. This form is normally distributed on all arriving aircraft. The bottom portion of this form will be torn off and handed back to you to become your Visitor Card ( Forma Migratoria Múltiple or FMM), which you should keep in your passport. IMPORTANT NOTE: All foreign visitors should keep their Visitor Card (FMM) bearing the official entry stamp as it must be surrendered upon departure from the country. It is extremely important to keep this form in a safe location. Upon exiting the country at a Mexican Immigration ( Instituto Nacional de México or INM) departure check point, U.S. citizens are required to turn in this form. We are aware of cases where U.S. citizens without their FMM have been required to change their flight (at personal expense), file a police report with local authorities regarding the missing document, and visit an INM office to pay a fine and obtain a valid exit visa. In other cases, travelers have been able to continue their journey after paying a fine. If you enter Mexico by land and expect to depart by air or land, be sure to receive the FMM when entering Mexico, either at the initial border entry or at the interior checkpoint 21 km past the border. While it is always provided at Mexican international airports as part of immigration procedures, it is not always automatically given at land crossing. If you then try to return to the United States by air without the card you can be subject to a fine of up to USD 400 or may be detained and deported if stopped in the interior of the country.  For further information please visit the Mexican Secretariat of Tourism website . U.S. companies that require travel of foreign business persons to the United States should ensure the Mexican or third-country national applies for their U.S. visa well in advance. Applicants for a U.S. visa should go to the following links:

State Department Visa Website https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en.html

U.S. Embassy Mexico Visa Information https://mx.usembassy.gov/visas/

Expedited Entry into the U.S. and Mexico

Members of the U.S. Global Entry program know how convenient it is for entry to the United States. Global Entry allows U.S. citizens and residents of select countries, including Mexico, who have applied and been approved to have expedited entry at airport immigration and customs facilities when returning to the United States. Global Entry membership also gives you access to SENTRI lanes at the U.S.-Mexico land border. If you are not a Global Entry member, you can get more information and apply at through the Global Entry website . Mexico has a similar program for frequent travelers entering Mexico by air. It’s called the Programa Viajero Confiable (Trusted Traveler Program). Members of Viajero Confiable who are Mexican Nationals can now also apply for NEXUS to have expedited entry at airports in Canada. Viajero Confiable provides similar benefits for entering Mexico and is in operation at airports in Mexico City, San Jose del Cabo, and Cancun. The application may be made online. Once preapproved, applicants must undergo an interview at an enrollment center at one of the three Mexican airports for final approval. Membership is good for five years and you can apply at https://www.inm.gob.mx/viajero-confiable/publico/solicitud.html . NEXUS offers benefits at airport and land border ports of entry in Canada. For more information visit the NEXUS site: www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/nexus/menu-eng.html . Those who cross the U.S. land border regularly but don’t need the full benefits of Global Entry might be interested in membership in SENTRI, open to all nationalities who meet membership criteria. The program is available at https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/sentri .

Mexico’s currency is the Mexican peso. In the first half of 2019, the average exchange rate was 19.25 pesos to the U.S. dollar. In most cities and tourist areas, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in established businesses. There is usually easy access to ATMs that accept U.S. ATM networks. Take the usual precautions to prevent skimming or theft of your card and banking information, including your PIN, and be cautious of anyone approaching you when at ATM machines.

Telecommunications/Electronics

Telephone services.

Telephone service is usually reliable, though certain remote locations in Mexico do not have direct dialing to the United States. Telephone service is heavily taxed in Mexico, and fees are relatively high. Select calling cards may be used in Mexico. More commonly, cellular telephones and smart phones are available and widely used. On mobile devices, country codes may be dialed with a plus sign (+) before the country code. Mexico’s country code is +52 and it is +1 for the United States. In August 2019, the Mexican telephone system simplified dialing prefixes for Mexican numbers. To dial or send a message to a Mexican you are now required to enter only the 10-digit number consisting of the area code and phone number. The three main mobile carriers, Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T offer national coverage and international roaming services. Telcel and AT&T offer packages with no roaming charges throughout North America available through T-Mobile and AT&T in the United States. The best reception is found on federal highways and in the top 50 cities in the country, including beach resorts. It is very likely that you will be able to use your mobile phone while traveling to Mexico, regardless of the company and technology (GSM, CDMA or PTT) you use. Roaming services apply to both voice and data services. You can use data on your mobile phone if you have contracted such a service in the United States. However, if you do not have an international plan, roaming fees (voice and data) can be substantial.

Internet Services

Tourist and business hotels provide internet services in rooms, or at a minimum, in business centers. Internet hotspots are now common. Free Wi-Fi is offered in select public spaces through the government-sponsored Mexico Conectado program, and most restaurants and cafés offer free Wi-Fi to patrons. Because internet penetration in residential areas was relatively low until recently, Mexico still has many internet cafés that offer internet access for a fee.

Electricity

Mexico uses the same voltage (120v) and the same size wall plugs as the United States.

Tra nsportation

Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana, Querétaro, and other Mexican cities have frequent direct and non-stop flights from major U.S. cities. American carriers to Mexico include American, Delta, U.S. Airways, United, Jet Blue, and Southwest. Mexican carriers providing scheduled service within Mexico include Aeromexico, Volaris, Interjet, and Viva Aerobus.

Taxis, Uber, and Road Transportation

It is important to ONLY use registered sitio taxi services or application-based car services such as Uber throughout the country, including using only the taxi vendor booths located INSIDE the airports. For Uber or other app-based services such as Cabify, you will need to check there is service in your city of destination, download the app, and configure a profile and payment account (preferably prior to arrival). Hotels and restaurants can also call a sitio or radio taxi for you. The taxi driver will provide you with a receipt ( un recibo ) upon request. For airport taxis, the receipt is usually the pre-paid stub from your ticket. App-based services may face local resistance. For more information, please see the Travel Advisory as well as the Travel and Transportation section at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/mexico.html .

Airport Arrivals

The Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport offers a fixed price taxi service to any point in the city. You can pay with a credit card or pesos, and you purchase tickets at one of several taxi company booths just after exiting the customs area. The fare from the airport to most areas within the city can vary widely as Mexico City is so large but should average MXN 200-350 for car service (rates are higher for an SUV). Alternatively, travelers can use the Uber app for an airport pickup and to move around Mexico City. Allow time for travel to and from the airport to major hotels. While the trip can take as little as 20 minutes in light traffic in the middle of the night, the same trip can take nearly two hours if accidents, demonstrations, rain, or other occurrences disrupt traffic. The Monterrey General Mariano Escobedo Airport has a very similar taxi service. The fare to most locations in Monterrey is about MXN 250-300. With your ticket in hand, exit the lobby, and an attendant from the taxi company will guide you to your taxi. Alternatively, travelers can use the Uber app for an airport pickup and to move around Monterrey. Airport and Flight Information is available by calling +52 (81) 8345 4434. The fare from Guadalajara International Airport to most locations in Guadalajara is about MXN 260-420. The trip from the airport to Guadalajara can take up to 45 minutes, depending upon traffic. Alternatively, travelers can use the Uber app for an airport pickup and to move around Guadalajara. For airport and flight Information, call +52 (33) 3688-5894. Sitio taxi services and Uber (depending upon location) are available at other airports and hotels around the country as well.

Spanish is the official language of Mexico. While many people in the large cities speak some English, it may be difficult for them to conduct detailed business discussions in English. Non-Spanish-speaking visitors to Mexico should consider hiring an interpreter for formal business meetings. It is considered courteous for U.S. business people to speak a few words of Spanish. Many mid- and high-level government officials and business executives speak English, and many are U.S.-educated.

A high standard of medical care is available in the principal cities, especially from the main private hospitals and doctors. Many private Mexican doctors have U.S. training and speak English. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains a website with health recommendations for travelers at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ . The Embassy and Consulates maintain lists of hospitals. For the three top cities, you can consult the following links:

Mexico City

Guadalajara

The U.S. Embassy does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms whose names appear on the above lists. In case of medical emergency, U.S. citizens may call the American Citizen Services at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate for help. Please find additional information and contacts for all U.S. consulate locations in Mexico at https://mx.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/find-your-consular-location/ . Mexico does have health concerns. You should take normal tourist precautions regarding drinking water and eating uncooked items such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads. Some individuals react to the pollution and high altitude of various cities, so take things slowly at first. Travelers to Mexico City may require some time to adjust to the altitude (7,400 ft.), which can adversely affect blood pressure, digestion, sleep, and energy level. Individuals with sickle cell trait should consult with the appropriate medical unit or their personal physician before commencing travel. Visitors on short-term assignments carry an added risk because of the lack of time to acclimatize. Dehydration, stress, or illnesses compound the basic risks of high altitude. For more information, contact your health provider. Please note that health insurance is an important consideration. Travelers are responsible for ensuring that they have adequate health coverage while in Mexico. All travelers should be aware that the CDC has issued a Travel Alert Level 2 “Practice Enhanced Precaution for Mexico.” Comprehensive information regarding Zika and risks to travelers is posted on the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html .

Local Time, Business Hours, and Holidays

Mexico spans several time zones, as does the United States. From the Yucatán Peninsula to Tijuana, there is a three-hour time difference. Mexico City and Central Mexico are on Central Standard Time (CST). Mexico has Daylight Savings time, though there is a difference of a few weeks from when it changes in the United States, except for certain border regions. Listed below are Mexican holidays for 2019-2020. On these days, banks will not open and most businesses will be closed. Be aware of the popular " puentes, " which is the local term for when holidays fall near the weekend. As in the United States, holidays falling on a Thursday, Friday, Monday, or Tuesday are rapidly converted into long weekends and are not a good time to schedule business trips. Also review the Business Customs topic above for notes on business hours and meal times. Mexican Holiday Schedule (July 2019-December 2020) 2019

September 16, Monday, Mexican Independence Day

November 1, Friday, All Souls’ Day

November 18, Monday, Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution

December 12, Thursday, Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe

January 1, Wednesday, New Year’s Day

February 5, Wednesday, Anniversary of the Mexican Constitution

March 16, Monday, Birthday of Benito Juarez

April 9, Thursday, Holy Thursday

April 10, Friday, Good Friday

May 1, Friday, Mexican Labor Day

September 16, Wednesday, Mexican Independence Day

November 2, Monday, All Souls’ Day

November 16, Monday, Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution

December 12, Saturday, Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe

December 25, Friday, Christmas Day

Temporary Entry of Materials or Personal Belongings

Please refer to the Customs, Regulations and Standards topic in the Temporary Entry section.

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Mexico City for Business

Posted by Travel Guide Reviews | Dec 4, 2012 | Business Travel News

Mexico City, by some measures the world’s most populous conurbation, is becoming more and more important as a business destination too.

The world’s richest man, according to Forbes’ most recent list, is a Mexican: the tycoon Carlos Slim. His $69bn fortune was made in the telecommunications industry, reflecting the growth of modern infrastructure in the past two decades all over Mexico, but especially in the capital. No longer are holidays to Mexico from Holiday Hypermarket and other budget suppliers the only reason for visiting this sprawling city. Business travellers will also benefit from Slim’s success, finding an array of ultra-modern conference facilities and exhibition spaces, all competing with incentivised deals to attract clients.

Courtesy image

As with any mega city, life outside is bustling and chaotic, but there is no shortage of well-appointed, yet convenient hotels near the centre in which business travellers can base themselves. A multitude of options exist, but a good choice is the Hotel Mision Express Zona Rosa. Its location in the financial district is handy for business, while its relatively small size, with only 50 guestrooms, makes it more intimate than some of the larger and more famous hotel names. Even if you’re on a business trip to Mexico City, you shouldn’t miss out on its entertainment, not least because it is a lesson in unmistakable branding. The image of Mariachi singers in the old-style cantinas, strumming mournful ballads, is impossible to replicate anywhere else.

A free night in the city after meetings, perhaps entertaining clients, is best spent in El Tenanpa in Plaza Garibaldi, one of the last cantinas which unashamedly pays homage to this sentimental tradition. Murals featuring the great singers of the genre, like the legendary Pedro Infante, adorn the walls in El Tenanpa, opened in 1923. As you would expect, this place doesn’t send its patrons home early, staying open until between 3 and 4am.

Mexicans, even those in business, take their meal times seriously. For a long lunch break or evening meal visit El Cardenal, one of the city’s finest restaurants. It’s conveniently located on the Palma, right in the centre, and prides itself on producing its own staples such as tortillas on the premises using the traditional methods. Its popularity means it is best to book ahead.

Any extra downtime would be a superb chance to take in the museums in the historic city centre, of which the most interesting is the Museo de Arte Popular. Here you can experience the art which breathes in every aspect of Mexican life, from the colourful floats of carnival time, to the adornments which families place on the graves of their loved ones on The Day of the Dead. Closed on Mondays, the museum is open every other day from 10am until 6pm, and 9pm on Wednesdays.

For art-loving business travellers willing to take a metro or taxi a short way out of the centre, a visit to the Frieda Kahlo Museum in the Coyoacan district is well worth the effort. Located in the Casa Azul, this is the house the painter shared with her husband and fellow painter Diego Rivera, and the museum offers an intimate look at an artist whose status has made her one of Mexico’s most famous exports. Opening hours are 10am to 6pm, every day except Mondays, and definitely worth a visit if meetings allow.

This post is contributed by Holiday Hypermarket.

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Industry insights contributed by business travel and meetings industry suppliers. Travel Guide Reviews share information about destinations, deals, hotels, restaurants, transportation, gadgets and other event resources.

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Where to Stay in Mexico City: The Best Neighborhoods and Areas for Every Type of Traveler

From business travelers to history buffs, there's an area in Mexico City for every agenda.

Mexico City is a highly versatile city, its streets filled with contrasts that make every visit a completely different one. To get to know a place of 573 square miles and a population of over 22 million — the fifth-most populated city in the world — one single stop is not enough. Instead, the best way to see all of this metropolis is to conquer it in zones, discovering its richness one neighborhood at a time.

Indulge yourself in Mexico City's world-renowned gastronomy, explore its many museums, stroll its historic streets, be amazed by its modern architecture, and peruse the little luxuries in its numerous shopping malls. Ahead, find the best neighborhoods for every type of traveler and where to stay in Mexico City once you've arrived.

For Jet Setters: Polanco

A small stroll through this buzzy neighborhood is enough to fall in love with its vibrant spirit. In Polanco, office buildings sit side-by-side with luxury apartments and colossal antique residences. The eclectic combination has turned the area into a hub of premier restaurants, international brands, acclaimed museums and galleries, and, of course, some of the best hotels in the city .

What to do? Take a walk along Presidente Masaryk Avenue where you'll find all the upscale boutiques; visit Museo Soumaya with its impressive Rodin collection; eat at Quintonil, considered one of the best restaurants in the world; and enjoy a drink at Limantour Polanco, arguably the best bar in Latin America.

Hyatt Regency Mexico City

As one of the top hotels in the area, the Hyatt Regency Mexico City has an extraordinary location: it's within walking distance from the major attractions in the district. All the rooms overlook either the buildings in Polanco or Chapultepec Park, guaranteeing an inspiring morning. Rulfo Paraje Latino, its signature restaurant, has one of the best weekend breakfasts in the city, to boot.

W Mexico City

Trendy and colorful, the W Hotel offers 237 guest rooms with modern design and fashionable furniture. Its youthful vibe is tangible, with bright colored lights, extra large pictures on the walls, and fun design — like checkered bathroom walls or beds set up in front of floor-to-ceiling windows. With a pet-friendly philosophy, their PAW (Pets Are Welcome) program includes a specialized W Hotels pet tag, toys, treats, and pet services.

Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mexico City

With exquisite design features, Las Alcobas is a boutique hotel in the heart of Polanco. It offers only 35 rooms – four of which are suites. Amenities include airport transportation, complimentary wake-up smoothies, and bath butler service. If that wasn't enough, one of the best restaurants in the city is found on the property: Anatol, offering seasonal small plates.

For Culture Seekers: Coyoacán

The word Coyoacán refers to "the place of coyotes" in Nahuatl, an Aztec language. That's the first clue to the historic and cultural immersion you'll experience in this southern district. Coyoacán used to be considered the outskirts of the city, which explains its vast amount of mansions and large country houses, many of which still function as residences.

The feeling of being out of the urban buzz is still palpable when walking through its narrow streets lined with leafy trees. A stroll through Jardín Centenario is mandatory — the square has an iconic coyote fountain in the center and it's within walking distance to numerous cafés, markets, local stores, and restaurants, such as Corazón de Maguey and Los Danzantes. Some of the most important places to visit here are the Frida Kahlo Museum, formerly the home the artist shared with Diego Rivera, and Leon Trotsky's House Museum.

Mansión de Papilio

A grand colonial mansion-turned-bed and breakfast welcomes guests to six exclusive suites, each with opulent furniture that resembles the age of classic authors such as Jaime Sabines. The estate has a big pool house with an indoor pool, an impressively large garden that can accommodate events, and a classic bar with a wine cellar that houses 200 labels, not to mention a delicious breakfast menu.

Casa Tamayo

This boutique hotel with four suites wants to become your home away from home. The staff's friendly service gifts visitors authentic Mexican hospitality with a side of coziness. Beyond its well-appointed suites, the hotel has a common living area and a kitchen for guests. The place is also conveniently located within walking distance of the main drag, Avenida Francisco Sosa.

For Bleisure Travelers: Santa Fe

Santa Fe is one of the newest neighborhoods in Mexico City, known for its big-box headquarters and shiny new apartment buildings. The hip district is visited mostly by business travelers, though there's plenty to discover among its skyscrapers and highways. Here, you can find the largest shopping mall in Mexico, Centro Santa Fe, with about 500 stores, two food courts, a luxury wing, and an ice rink within its more than six million square feet. Foodies will also find this neighborhood appealing for its top restaurants like Toro, Nobu, and Central Central, to name a few.

Live Aqua Urban Resort México

The most luxurious and sophisticated brand of the Mexican hotelier group Grupo Posadas, Live Aqua sits 15 minutes away from the traffic and the buzz of Santa Fe, offering guests a relaxed stay. Upon entering, a tranquil environment embraces visitors. The untraditional hotel eschews a front desk in the lobby for fountains, vegetation, and walls covered with books. The elegant guest rooms have aromatherapy kits, a pillow menu, and Nespresso coffee machines.

This one's a classic for travelers looking for comfortable accommodations in a prime location. The hotel is located right in the middle of the neighborhood's busiest spot, for starters. Secondly, it provides programs to travelers who need to unwind from their business meetings. There's also a state-of-the-art spa that also offers in-suite massages, Life Fitness equipment in the gym, and an on-site farm-to-table restaurant.

Hotel Distrito Capital

With a fresh and modern disposition, Hotel Distrito Capital appeals to those looking for an innovative hotel concept. Design is key here, which is why the guest rooms feature views of the surrounding mountains, bathtubs overlooking the city, and minimalist décor. The rooftop pool is not to be missed, along with the spacious, outdoor terrace.

For Urbanites: Condesa and Roma

Condesa and Roma are two adjacent neighborhoods that have grown almost as twins, sharing an urban and bohemian blend. Popular for their independent boutiques, exquisite restaurants, art galleries, and exciting nightlife, these districts have found the perfect balance between modern lifestyle and heritage. The past comes alive in this area with 100-year-old buildings, traditional street markets, and historical parks, like Parque México. Plus, some of the neighborhood's trendiest places — like Azul Condesa, Huset , and Máximo — attract locals and tourists alike. According to Mexico City-based journalist Michael Snyder , Condesa and Roma are "two of the capital's most design-forward neighborhoods."

Hotel CondesaDF

Located in a building dating back to 1928, Hotel CondesaDF manages to combine its heritage with a contemporary feel. Simple elegance, retro throwbacks, and a sleek environment rule the guest rooms. On the other hand, the restaurants have a hip energy appealing not only to hotel guests, but to locals who crave an early dinner at El Patio restaurant, or a drink and sushi on the terrace.

Ignacia Guest House

Roma is known for its big mansions. This boutique hotel, however, underwent an interesting remodel that kept the classic style on the outside but transformed the inside into nine modern suites. Each room has a different personality dictated by the color of its walls. Breakfast is a must, especially when served in the garden.

For History Buffs: Reforma

The lengthy Avenida Paseo de la Reforma deserves special mention since it encompasses some of the most important attractions in the city. It features exclusive hotels, high-class restaurants, concert venues, recognized museums, and historic landmarks.

Starting in the Polanco area, you'll find the entrance to Chapultepec, the oldest and largest urban park in Latin America — it's home to the city's zoo, multiple large artificial lakes, and the superb Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle). If you continue along the beautiful street flanked by flower beds, you'll find the impressive Anthropology Museum, a modern art museum, and two iconic monuments: Diana the Huntress Fountain and the Angel of Independence.

Once you've reached this emblematic memorial, you're only 2.5 miles away from Mexico City's Historic Centre, El Zócalo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. "[In El Zócalo] you'll find opulent colonial palaces, crooked Baroque churches, murals by Diego Rivera at the Palacio Nacional and the Secretariat of Public Education headquarters, and the magnificent ruins of the Templo Mayor, the axis of the Aztec Empire's religious and political universe," wrote Snyder for Travel + Leisure .

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City

This hotel has been a favorite of celebrities and business travelers looking for comfort and exclusivity. The building has a lush courtyard in the center, providing a peaceful environment in the middle of one of the busiest avenues in Mexico City. Around the garden is the recently opened restaurant Zanaya, where dishes from the Mexican Pacific Coast are served. There's also the prestigious Fifty Mils, a gastro bar created by the most influential bartenders in Latin America.

The St. Regis Mexico City

The luxurious hotel situated in a 31-story building offers a unique view of the Diana the Huntress Fountain. In addition to the luxe amenities and top-tier service that define St. Regis hotels across the globe, this particular hotel has exciting food and drink offerings: La Table Krug, an intimate dining room that serves an eight-course dinner, and the King Cole Bar for late night drinks.

Sheraton Mexico City Maria Isabel Hotel

Overlooking the Angel of Independence, this hotel is proud to show off its marvelous view. With stately flair, it's long been the choice lodging for historical figures such as former President John F. Kennedy. Nowadays, the property's 684 rooms and 72 suites are committed to comfort, featuring marble tubs, butler service, and 24-hour room service.

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16 Best Things To Do in Mexico City

Mexico City, officially known as Ciudad de México (CDMX), is a growing and vibrant metropolis nestled in the heart of Mexico. The capital city of Mexico offers a blend of history, culture and gastronomy that attracts millions of annual visitors. From

• All Things To Do

Museo Nacional de Antropología Museo Nacional de Antropología

Located within the sprawling Chapultepec Forest , the Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology) showcases artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian era, dating from about 100 B.C. to A.D. 1521. Housed within the facility’s 22 rooms are artifacts, including the famous Aztec Calendar Stone, known as Piedra del Sol, as well as the ancient statue of Xochipilli, the Aztec god of art, games, beauty, dance and maize (among others). The museum offers a look at how tradition, culture and life were formed in all regions of Mexico, and it also educates visitors on how Mexico’s indigenous descendants live today. 

Past visitors said this is a must-see if you’re interested in the ancient cultures of Mexico/Mesoamerica. Reviewers appreciated that the explanatory text features English translations. The museum is so extensive that many travelers said you can spend a whole day exploring the many collections and exhibits and recommend giving yourself plenty of time to visit. As one of the largest and most visited museums in Mexico, the grounds are also home to a gift shop, a cafeteria and the National Library of Anthropology and History. 

Bosque de Chapultepec Bosque de Chapultepec free

The main park in Mexico City, Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest) was once the temporary home of the Aztec empire after its citizens migrated to modern-day Mexico City in the 13th century. Today, the 1,600-acre Chapultepec is Mexico City's largest park and is popular among families seeking respite from the busy and crowded city.

Divided into three sections, the park is home to many cultural interests, such as the presidential residence, the former presidential palace, a zoo and several museums (including the highly recommended Museo Nacional de Antropología ). The park also hosts numerous military monuments and effigies of Aztec kings, as well as restaurants and playgrounds, plus lots of green space for stretching. What's more, the park features a large lake, where visitors and locals alike can rent pedal boats to cruise around the water (a particular highlight for kids). On the weekends, local vendors fill the park and sell everything from souvenirs to art to snacks.

Palacio de Bellas Artes Palacio de Bellas Artes free

Considered the cultural center of Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts) is a must-visit. The exterior of this 20th-century palace showcases art nouveau and art deco-style architecture, while the inside features marble floors and vaulted glass windows. 

In addition to its architectural grandeur, the building hosts cultural events in the national theater, including music, dance, theater, opera and literary performances. The museum at the palace also houses several famous murals, including the work of the famous Mexican muralist Rufino Tamayo. On the top floor, you'll find the National Museum of Architecture, which showcases the work and lives of famous Mexican architects, and multiple art museums and galleries. 

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Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Zócalo attracts throngs of visitors and locals, so visit in the early morning or afternoon during a weekday to avoid the heaviest crowds. – Kayla Hui

Officially known as Plaza de la Constitución, El Zócalo is the main public square and one of the most recognizable places in Mexico City. It’s also one of the world’s largest city squares. It contains a giant Mexican flag at its center and has been the centerpiece of public gatherings since the days of the Aztec empire (it was considered the ceremonial center of Tenochtitlán). The site also hosts annual, widely attended religious events during Holy Week and for Corpus Christi, as well as fairs, concerts, and parades. Several historic buildings also border the square, including the city's national cathedral , the National Palace  and federal buildings.

Museo Frida Kahlo Museo Frida Kahlo

One of the best-known museums in Mexico City exhibits the life and work of its most famous artist: Frida Kahlo. The museum, located in the Coyoacan suburb, is also known as La Casa Azul (The Blue House), and was Kahlo's former residence. It hosts some impressive examples of her works, but travelers say that the best part of visiting the house is seeing where the artist lived and painted with her husband, artist Diego Rivera. Along with paintings by both artists, folk art, photos, documents, books and furnishings, the house also displays personal objects.

Recent visitors to the property said it's a must-see for fans of the artist, saying it shows her life and work in a very personal light. Reviewers were particularly impressed with the display of her clothing and dresses. If you want to take photos, there is an additional modest “permit” fee. 

Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the summer months, pack a hat and water bottle (there is little shade within the complex). If you plan to use the bathroom on site, bring a couple of pesos with you to use the bathroom and buy toilet paper. – Kayla Hui 

The Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe (Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe) is an important religious site in Mexico City. Construction for the first shrine built to honor the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe started in 1695 on Tepeyac Hill. However, nearly 300 years' worth of construction and environmental damage threatened the integrity of the basilica, so a new basilica was built on the same plaza in the 1970s.

Templo Mayor Templo Mayor

Before Spanish colonization, Templo Mayor served as the religious center for the Aztec people. When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the early 16th century, the temple was among many structures that were destroyed and a new cathedral was built on top of the ruins. It wasn't until 1978 that the temple dedicated to the Aztec gods Huitzilopochtli and Tláloc (gods of war and water) was unearthed in the heart of Mexico City. Today, the area remains an active archeological site and the adjoining museum houses thousands of  artifacts, including 2,500 wooden objects from the site. 

Recent visitors said it's fascinating to see the ancient ruins that are tucked away in the center of the city. Many said it's worth spending time in the museum as well, but the site and scale can't match up to the massive Museo Nacional de Antropología . Still, the whole complex has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Mexico City's most popular attractions. If you’re visiting during the summer months, travelers suggest you time your visit for the morning to avoid the sweltering midday heat. Reviewers also warn that most of the information is listed in Spanish only.

Museo de Arte Popular Museo de Arte Popular

U.S. News Insider Tip: Ditch the large bags and water bottles prior to your visit as you may be denied entry. – Kayla Hui

This folk art museum features handicrafts from all across Mexico and details the country's history and its many cultures. If you want to find out more about the country’s indigenous communities, this is the place to go, according to travelers. Exhibits include glasswork from Tecali, pottery from Michoacán, masks from Chiapas and alebrijes , the colorful painted animal figures from Oaxaca, among other treasures. Make sure to take time to admire the building itself – the 1920s art deco building was the former headquarters of the fire department.

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Chalpultepec Castle Chalpultepec Castle

U.S. News Insider Tip: Sundays are free for all residents of Mexico and expats living in Mexico, so try to avoid visiting that day if you can. It can get crowded, so it’s recommended to go in the morning when the castle first opens. – Kayla Hui

Constructed beginning in 1725, Chalpultepec Castle has served many purposes in its centuries of use; it was a military academy, an observatory, and the only castle in North America to house rulers, including Emperor Maximilian I and his wife Empress Carlota. It would later be established as the National Museum of History by Lázaro Cárdenas in 1939, which would open the castle to visitors. Located at the entrance of Chalpultepec Park , it’s a historical site that can’t be missed on your next visit to Mexico City. 

Catedral Metropolitana Catedral Metropolitana free

Mexico's national cathedral – the vaulting, austere, ornate church on the Zócalo' s north end – was once the site of an ancient Aztec precinct, so it has housed the city's spiritual core for centuries. The cathedral was built between 1573 and 1813 after the Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlan and is considered one of Mexico City's many must-see attractions. What’s more, the cathedral is one of the largest churches in Latin America. It’s believed that the materials used to construct the church were taken from the destroyed pyramids and structures belonging to the Aztecs. Highlights of the massive cathedral include five naves, 14 chapels, two of the largest 18th-century organs in the Americas, 150 windows and a painting by famed Spanish artist Bartolome Esteban Murillo.

Depending on your interest in Mexican history and architecture, you could spend anywhere from an hour to a half a day at the cathedral (it’s free to enter). Past visitors recommended paying to take a tour of the interior with a member of the cathedral’s staff, who reviewers say offer a wealth of information about the cathedral’s far-reaching history. According to recent visitors, tours cost approximately 100 Mexican pesos (about $6). Recent visitors said the massive structure is stunning to behold, and even if you don't want to take the time to explore the inside, it's worth the photo-op of the exterior. The cathedral is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and admission is free. Many of the best Mexico City walking tours make stops here, which can be another way to hear an in-depth retelling of the cathedral’s history and significance.  For more information, including Mass times, visit the cathedral's website (in Spanish).

Museo Soumaya Museo Soumaya free

From exceptional architecture to more than 66,000 featured works, Museo Soumaya is one of Mexico City’s most iconic museums. Established in 1994, Museo Soumaya’s main goal is to preserve and exhibit Mexico and Europe’s artistry. Currently, it houses the largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin outside of France, in addition to artwork by Diego Rivera, Titian, Picasso, Monet and more. 

Beyond the art, the architecture alone is worth seeing. The exterior of the six-story building is wrapped in mirrored hexagons, and the building is the brainchild of Mexican architect Fernando Romero. Recent travelers say Museo Soumaya is reminiscent of New York City’s Guggenheim (both museums are architecturally stunning and feature a circular interior with each floor organized by art type). Some reviewers recommend starting your visit at the top and winding your way down. 

Palacio Nacional Palacio Nacional free

The National Palace holds the federal executive branch of the Mexican government and sits along Mexico City's main public square, El Zócalo . The palace itself is a massive, ornate building that contains several gardens, murals and fountains in the Spanish Renaissance architectural style. Its highlights are several Diego Rivera murals painted in panoramic style across the palace's walls, which past visitors say are a must-see. These murals depict the stages of Mexican history, from pre-Columbian days to the current age.

Because the Mexican president lives and works within the palace, visitors can only access the site on a guided tour. Tours are free, but can’t be booked in advance online. According to recent visitors, you must go to the ticket office at the Museum of Art of the Ministry of Finance & Public Credit, where you can inquire about tour availability and make reservations in person (this is also where tours depart from). Some reviewers reported success booking tickets in advance by emailing [email protected] with information about the preferred tour date and number of people attending. Along the approximately hourlong tours, you’ll see the Rivera mural collections and the courtyards. You may also get the chance to glimpse the exterior of the legislative chambers. 

Museo Casa Luis Barragán Museo Casa Luis Barragán

Luis Barragán was a prominent Mexican architect renowned for his modernist style, and his former home – which was first constructed in 1947 and now functions as a museum – is one of the finest examples of his work. The museum is an off-the-beaten-path attraction that travelers say will please all, even those not schooled in architectural history. The house is known for its vivid colors, brilliant use of natural light and its impressive garden with a maze of corridors and trees. In 2004, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Recent visitors said the history of the house, in addition to its interesting architecture, is captivating. However, a handful of recent reviewers were disappointed with the ticket reservation process. To visit, you must book a self-guided or guided tour (available in Spanish and English). Self-guided visits are only available on Thursdays at select times. Tickets for self-guided tours cost 450 Mexican pesos (about $26) per person (note that children 12 and younger are not permitted in the house). Guided tours are available at select times Monday through Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Tickets for guided tours cost more. Tickets are released every Tuesday at noon (Mexico City time).  

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Torre Latinoamericana Torre Latinoamericana

Open since 1956, Torre Latinoamericana, the 44-story skyscraper in Centro Histórico, is the place to go if you want the best views of the city. Similar to the Empire State Building in New York City , this tower offers visitors jaw-dropping views from its observation deck and restaurant, making it the perfect opportunity to pull out your camera for that Instagram-worthy picture. 

Recent visitors recommended heading up to the top of the tower during sunset to admire the shifting light as it illuminates buildings like the neighboring Palace of Fine Arts. Travelers also warned that if smog levels are high, you won’t be able to see much from the tower’s peak. Some reviewers recommend spending time in the on-site museum, which details the history of Mexico City and the construction of the tower. 

Teotihuacán Teotihuacán

U.S. News Insider Tip: There is no shade inside the archeological site, so you’ll want to wear a hat. It’s also helpful to have a small backpack to hold a water bottle, sunscreen and toilet paper to use in the washrooms at the site. – Kayla Hui

One of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Mexico City region, Teotihuacán ( teh -o-tee-wa- can ) contains some of the largest pre-Hispanic pyramids in all of Mexico. The site contains many popular constructions, including the Palace of the Plumed Butterfly, which showcases various columns of winged creatures, and the awesome Pyramid of the Sun, which sits at the heart of the small city. The nearby museum, Museo de la Sitio, also holds many artifacts from the period.

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) free

The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (Central University City Campus of the National University of Mexico) includes 32 academic programs, the Mexican Olympic stadium, a Mexican cultural center, a nature preserve and the city's Central Library. The main campus is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city's famous muralists have made their mark on the campus, and travelers recommend you check out the work of famous painter David Alfaro Siqueiros at the Rectorate Tower or the work of Juan O'Gorman at the Central Library. The campus also holds the University Museum of Contemporary Art, an excellent spot for viewing Mexico's more recent cultural offerings. The sculpture garden at the art museum is a particular highlight for past visitors, as is the botanic garden.

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Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico? Here’s What You Need to Know.

A spate of incidents, including a kidnapping and the death of two Americans near the border, have prompted travel warnings from the U.S. government.

By Elisabeth Malkin and Isabella Kwai

Two Americans found dead after they were attacked and kidnapped near the border. Airports shuttered amid gang violence in Sinaloa. Turmoil among taxi drivers in Cancún.

A number of recent security incidents have raised concerns about the risks of traveling to Mexico, where more than 20 million tourists flew last year to visit the country’s beaches, cities and archaeological sites, or to obtain health care .

Ahead of the spring break holiday, a popular time for American tourists to visit the country, the U.S. Embassy issued a travel alert , urging visitors to exercise caution by avoiding dangerous situations and drinking responsibly, among other recommendations. “Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations,” the alert said. And the State Department has warned tourists to steer clear of six states, including the state of Tamaulipas, where the recent kidnapping occurred — and to exercise increased precautions in other popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cancún, Tulum and Mexico City.

An overwhelming majority of visitors enjoy a safe vacation in Mexico, and tourists are largely sheltered from the violence that grips local communities. But the attack and kidnapping of four Americans in the border city of Matamoros, two of whom were later found dead, along with recent disorder in Cancún and violence in early January that forced the closure of three airports in northwest Mexico, is prompting questions about whether the country’s broader unrest is spilling into other destinations.

What happened on the border?

On March 3, four Americans from South Carolina traveling in a white minivan crossed the border from Brownsville, Texas, into the city of Matamoros, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery.

Soon after the Americans crossed the border, gunmen fired on their vehicle and then abducted the group in a pickup truck. Officials later said that two of the group were found dead at a rural location alongside the other two, who had survived.

The Americans were attacked as a result of “confusion,” according to Irving Barrios, the state prosecutor in Tamaulipas. Matamoros has a long history of violence and highway shootouts, though that reputation has partially subsided in recent years. Then, in late February, one gang moved into the city to wrest control of drug sales from another, said Eduardo Guerrero, the director of Lantia Intelligence , a security consulting company in Mexico City.

“There are places in the country where the situation can change abruptly from one week to another,” he said. While the motives in the attack remain unclear, the Americans had “very bad luck,” Mr. Guerrero said, because they likely stumbled into a battle between the two gangs.

What happened earlier this year in Cancún?

Uber has been challenging the taxi unions for the right to operate in Cancún and won a court decision in its favor on Jan. 11. The ruling infuriated the powerful unions, which are believed to have links to local organized crime figures and former governors. Taxi drivers then began harassing and threatening Uber drivers.

The conflict generated widespread attention after a video of taxi drivers forcing a Russian-speaking family out of their rideshare car went viral, and after unions blocked the main road leading to Cancún’s hotel zone. That prompted the U.S. Embassy in Mexico to issue a security alert .

Mr. Guerrero said that the authorities will try to negotiate some kind of compromise, but there was a probability of more violence ahead.

Have authorities curbed violence that might affect tourists?

As a rule, criminals in Mexico are careful not to kill tourists, Mr. Guerrero explained, because doing so “can set in motion a persecution that can last years,” the consequences of which can be “very dissuasive,” he said.

But the rule doesn’t always hold. And in two popular destinations for foreign tourists — Los Cabos , at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, and the Caribbean coast — local and state officials have recently sought help from the United States to take on organized crime that threatened to drive off tourists.

A spasm of violence at the end of 2021 and early 2022 rattled the tourist industry along the Riviera Maya, the 80-mile strip of Caribbean resorts south of Cancún. Two visitors were killed in crossfire between local gangs in Tulum; a gunfight on a beach in Puerto Morelos sent tourists running for cover into a nearby hotel; a hit man gained entry to a luxury hotel in Playa del Carmen and killed two Canadian tourists believed to have links to organized crime.

The federal government sent National Guard units to patrol the beaches, and Quintana Roo state authorities asked U.S. law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, to provide intelligence, Mr. Guerrero said. Local authorities, flush with tourism revenues, invested in the police, which is typically the weakest link in Mexican law enforcement.

The joint approach led to a lull in gangland gun battles in Quintana Roo’s tourist areas, and experts say that drug sales to meet foreign demand no longer take place on the street, although they are continuing more discreetly.

The success in tamping down drug violence in Quintana Roo follows a similar improvement in Los Cabos a couple of years ago when U.S. authorities also collaborated with local officials in the state of Baja California Sur. The murder rate soared in Los Cabos in 2017 amid cartel wars, and although tourists were not targeted, that year police chased gunmen into the lobby of a luxury hotel in San José del Cabo, and a cooler containing two heads was left in a tourist area.

What about tourist areas in other states?

Even in states where crime is very high, tourist areas have generally been spared. San Miguel de Allende, a haven for U.S. retirees, is an island of relative peace in a state, Guanajuato, that has been riddled with cartel violence .

The Pacific Coast state of Jalisco, home to the resort of Puerto Vallarta, picturesque tequila country and the cultural and gastronomic attractions of the state capital, Guadalajara , is also the center of operations of the extremely violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel . The cartel’s focus of violence is in the countryside; Puerto Vallarta and the beaches to its north, including the exclusive peninsula of Punta Mita and the surfers’ hangout of Sayulita, are all booming — and, despite drug sales, the cartel’s control seems to limit open conflict.

Mexico City has become a magnet for digital nomads and shorter term visitors , and concerns about violence there have receded. The city’s police force has been successful in reducing violent crime, particularly homicides, and the number of killings has been cut almost in half over the past three years.

Are there any other safety concerns?

Street crime is still a problem almost everywhere, especially in bigger cities and crowded spaces. Kidnapping and carjacking are a risk in certain regions and many businesses that cater to tourists operate under extortion threats. While tourists may not be aware of underlying criminal forces, their power sometimes spills out into the open in spectacular shows of violence.

The attack in Matamoros is only the most recent example. Mexican border cities, which have long endured waves of violence, are not typically tourist destinations, although Americans often cross the border to visit family, seek out cheaper health care or dine at restaurants.

Three airports in the state of Sinaloa, including the beach destination Mazatlán, were closed on Jan. 5 amid gang violence after Mexican security forces arrested Ovidio Guzmán López, a son of Joaquín Guzmán Loera, the crime lord known as El Chapo, who is serving a life sentence in the United States. A stray bullet fired by cartel gunmen shooting at a Mexican military plane as it landed at the airport in the state capital, Culiacán, clipped an Aeromexico plane preparing to take off for Mexico City. Nobody was hurt and the plane returned to the terminal.

In August, gunmen positioned burning cars and buses to block roads around Guadalajara in response to a military raid on a meeting of criminal bosses. In October, a local politician was shot and killed in an upscale steakhouse in suburban Guadalajara as terrified diners crawled to safety.

Pierre de Hail, the president of Janus Group Mexico, a risk management company in Monterrey, is skeptical that security has improved. “There is too much random risk,” he said. “It’s all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

What precautions should tourists take?

Mr. de Hail recommends researching the resort and news from the area you’re visiting. The U.S. State Department provides state-by-state information about travel risks in Mexico. As of early March, the department had issued its strongest possible warning — Level 4: Do Not Travel — for six states, including Tamaulipas and Sinaloa. Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur are at Level 2, indicating that visitors should exercise increased caution. (By comparison, the same Level 2 advisory is applied to France and Spain.)

The Matamoros incident shows how violence can flare up in places that have been quiet recently. Mr. Guerrero suggests searching on the internet before traveling for news of recent outbreaks.

Mr. de Hail also suggests buying travel insurance in case of a medical emergency or theft, and recommends that tourists keep a low profile to avoid attracting attention, he said, warning that it is easy to misread situations.

As anywhere, common sense should prevail, Mr. de Hail said: Don’t wear expensive watches or jewelry, and avoid dark and deserted places. He recommends making a copy of your passport, remaining alert while walking home at night and not leaving your drinks unattended. “I have had numerous cases of people asking for help because they were extorted coming back from bars,” he said.

He added: “If you’re staying in a place that has a report of strikes or demonstrations, don’t go there. You’re a fish out of water.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Isabella Kwai is a breaking news reporter in the London bureau. She joined The Times in 2017 as part of the Australia bureau. More about Isabella Kwai

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Trip planning, travel destinations, destination highlights, mexico lifestyles, living & lifestyle, lifestyle planning, real estate, healthcare & wellbeing, leisure assistance, lifestyle assistance, insurance coverages, property assistance, about mexperience, mexico essentials, discover more, mexico entry requirements—for leisure, business or residency.

This guide explains what you need to know about entry requirements when you are visiting Mexico for leisure, for business, or to take up residency here.

Mexico entry requirements for tourists and short term visitors

Mexico visitors permit, fmm.

Passport holders from countries on Mexico’s no visa required list do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. They may, instead, use a visitor’s permit, known as a FMM ( Forma Migratoria Multiple ).

For the countries that don’t need a visa , a Mexico Visitor’s Permit (FMM) is issued in place of a visa. Learn more about Mexico’s visitor permit, the FMM .

How long is your Mexico visitor permit valid?

When you enter Mexico as tourist or business visitor, the immigration official at the port of entry will grant you a number of days stay in Mexico and write this on your visitor permit. This will be a maximum of 180 days; but it may be less than 180 days.

Check to see how many days you are granted to determine your exit date.

Learn more about the number of days being granted  to people arriving in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit, FMM.

Visitor permits cannot be extended or renewed

The Visitor Permit (FMM) will always expire after the number of days written on the permit: it cannot be extended beyond the number of days the immigration official grants when you arrive in Mexico, even if this is less than the maximum allowance of 180 days; and cannot be renewed.  You must leave the country before it expires.

Your Mexico Visitor Permit, FMM

Do I Need A Visa to Visit Mexico

Entry to Mexico: Essential Information for All Travelers

Regardless of whether you come to Mexico for leisure, for business or to take up residency here, take note of the following:

Required documentation

For a summary of the documentation required to enter Mexico, see Documents required for travel and entry to Mexico

Minors traveling to Mexico alone

Minors traveling to Mexico alone, or unaccompanied by at least one parent or their legal guardian: Read Traveling with Minors to Mexico .

Passport validity

The maximum period of time that a visitor/tourist may stay in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit (FMM, see above) is six months.

Therefore we recommend that your passport, regardless of country of origin, should be valid for a minimum period of six months, however long you intend to stay to avoid any potential problems at the port of entry.

Immigration authorities at the port of entry may allow or deny entry of any person into Mexico. If you have a passport that is valid for less than six months and you intend to stay in Mexico for a short period of time —perhaps a vacation— the Immigration Officer might allow you entry, especially if you can show a return air ticket.

Notwithstanding this, we recommend that you and your family members hold passports valid for at least six months from the date you intend to enter Mexico.

For holders of U.S. Passport Cards

U.S. passport cards are less expensive than passport books and can be used by U.S. citizens who cross the border between the United States and Mexico by land or sea. These look like a driver’s license, and are more robust and less bulky than a passport book. You can learn more about Passport Cards on this page of the US State Department web site. If you are a holder of a U.S. Passport Card, please note that this is NOT valid for air travel to Mexico . Passport Cards can only be used to cross the border between the United States and Mexico by land or sea ports. A passport is required for air travel to and from the the United States.

Traveling to Mexico via the United States:

In January 2009 the United States government introduced new rules for travelers entering the country using the Visa Waiver Program (US State Dept). See Also: Travel to Mexico via the USA

Arriving to Mexico by cruise ship

If you are traveling on a cruise ship that visits Mexico, you will be asked to complete a Visitors Permit/FMM (see information above) at your first Mexican port-of-call.  This permit will be valid for a maximum of 21 days.  Ask your cruise company for details.

Traveling in transit through Mexico

As of February 2004 foreigners passing through one of Mexico’s international airports to a third country no longer require a visa or any migratory documentation, provided that they remain at the airport and depart Mexico within 24 hours of arrival. See Also: Entry Procedure at Mexican Ports

Entry requirements for business visits to Mexico

Mexico welcomes business visitors and makes the immigration procedure for short visits straightforward by means of a special section on the Visitor’s Permit described above.

Business visits to Mexico

If you are traveling on business, or representing a company to conduct business in Mexico, and you hold a passport from a country on Mexico’s “ no visa required list ” you do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. You can, instead, use a visitor’s permit —the same entry permit and procedures used by tourists to enter Mexico (see section above for full details).

If the country you hold a passport for does not appear on the no-visa list , you should check with your nearest local Mexican Consulate  for details of visa requirements before you travel to Mexico.

Longer-term business visits to Mexico

If you plan to work or live in Mexico longer periods ( more than 180 days ), you will need to apply for a business visit visa.

This visa enables the visitor to live, work and do business in Mexico, provided that certain criteria are satisfied. You can get more detailed information about long-term living and working permits on Mexperience by connecting to the Immigration Page that contains lots of information and advice about living and working in Mexico. See also: Working in Mexico

Entry requirements for residency in Mexico

People wishing to travel to Mexico to live, work, or retire must meet certain criteria to do so. Mexperience has comprehensive sections of information dedicated to these topics of interest:

Residency visas and immigration

Our guide to Mexico Visas and Immigration page gives an overview of the requirements for temporary and permanent residency in Mexico. Also see the regularly-updated  Mexico Immigration FAQs page for the most-commonly asked questions about immigration to Mexico.

Entry Procedure at Mexican Ports

The entry procedure will vary depending on where you arrive in Mexico and whether you arrive as a visitor or as resident. See also: Procedures for Entering and Leaving Mexico

Mexican Customs procedures and allowances

Like all countries, Mexico has policies on what can be brought in to the country without paying duties or taxes.

Your customs allowances when entering Mexico

Allowances are subject to change without notice, but listed below are the principal items followed by some tips about entry to Mexico.

• Personal Luggage: including new and used goods for personal use to include clothes, footwear, personal hygiene and beauty items which, according to the form: ‘reasonably respond to the duration of the trip and that due to its quantities may not be used for commercial purposes’;
• Two photographic or video cameras and twelve rolls of film or videotapes;
• Two mobile phones or pagers;
• One used or new laptop; one used or new printer; one projector;
• Two used or new items of sports gear;
• One CD player or portable music player; one DVD player;
• One musical instrument;
• Three surfboards; four fishing rods; a pair of skis;
• Ten packs of cigarettes (200 cigarettes total), twenty-five cigars OR 200 grams of tobacco (over 18s only);
• Vaping imports banned: The commercial import of vaping products was banned in February 2020; however, small quantities  for personal use by visitors to the country should not be confiscated (vaping itself is not illegal in Mexico); bringing an ‘excess’ deemed reasonable for personal use may cause your entire supply to be confiscated.
• Three liters of liquor AND six liters of wine (if the person is aged over 18 years);
• There is a US$300 tax exemption on items you import (in addition to those already listed above) when you enter the country by means or air or maritime transport; the exemption is reduced to US$50 if you travel in by land, except at Easter, Summer Holidays and Christmas time, when the land exemption limit is increased to US$300.

Please Note:  Refer to the Mexican Customs web site for full details about customs allowances as these limits are subject to change with little or no notice .

MEXICAN CUSTOMS: TIPS & ADVICE FOR TRAVELERS

Bringing prescription drugs to Mexico:  You are allowed to bring prescription drugs into Mexico provided that you have the accompanying documentation which proves a medical need. If you or a member of your family are taking prescription drugs, be sure to take the prescription/doctor’s note with you, which includes the patient’s name and the name of the medication(s) to prove medical need of the drugs you are carrying in case your luggage gets inspected.

Don’t bring firearms or ammunition!   A foreign firearms license is not valid in Mexico ; if you own a gun, don’t take it to Mexico with you and don’t bring any ammunition with you either. The only exception is a firearm and ammunition used for hunting purposes; but you will need to apply for a special permit – contact your local Mexican Consulate . Being in possession of lethal knives, firearms of all types, and even a single round of ammunition is a Federal crime in Mexico: caught in possession of a firearm can land you in very serious trouble—even if you have a license for it that was issued in your home country. See Also: Mexico’s Strict Gun Laws

Type and quantity of items : Don’t bring anything that obviously looks like you’re planning to resell goods; for example, several laptop computers. These items will get heavily taxed or confiscated. Items for personal use will be allowed, new or used, but only in quantities that are commensurate with the definition of ‘personal use.’ If you are carrying large quantities of anything, or if the Customs Inspector believes you are trying to commercialize any of the goods you are carrying, then you may be interviewed further.

Drug smuggling: Every year, foreign nationals are arrested and convicted for drug smuggling in Mexico.  Don’t attempt to smuggle any narcotics – not even small amounts of ‘soft’ drugs, e.g. cannabis/marijuana. You may be required to present documentary evidence for any powerful prescription drugs you need to carry on your person (i.e. doctor’s prescription, see note above about prescription drugs.) Narcotic offenses (use of, import, export, dealing) are likely to land you in a Mexican prison for many years. Don’t expect your consulate to bail you out because it won’t be able to. 20-25 year prison sentences for drug and serious firearm-related offenses are not uncommon in Mexico.

What you may take home from Mexico

Customs allowances into your home country will depend on where you live.

If you are planning to do a lot of shopping in Mexico, you should check at the information desk at (air)port of departure in your home country for the latest duty-free allowances.

Most goods classed as art and craft work are free of import taxes and you can bring as many home as many as you like, provided the quantities would be considered ‘for personal enjoyment’. Check with your local port/customs authorities for details.

The following items are are typical of duty-free allowances in many countries:

• 200 Cigarettes;
• 50 Cigars or 250g of Tobacco;
• 2 liters of wine;
• 1 or 2 liters of liquor (depending on country);
• 60cl of perfume;
• In addition to the above: a US dollar or euro amount of goods, ranging from about US$300-$500, depending upon the country. If you go over the monetary limit, duty and tax is usually payable on the whole amount not just the sum above the limit;
• Exact rates and amounts vary by country/trading block. Check with the information desk at your home country’s port of departure for the latest details on allowances

Leaving Mexico and Consular Contacts

Leaving mexico.

There are some procedures to follow when you depart Mexico, whether you are a visitor, or resident here:

If you are in Mexico as a tourist/visitor: When you leave Mexico, you will need to show your visitor permit you were issued with when you arrived. See also: Your Mexico Visitors Permit, FMM

If you are resident in Mexico be sure to the immigration desk at the airport or land border to show your residency card and get passport stamped before you leave the country . See also: Procedures for entering and leaving Mexico

Foreign Embassies and Consulates

Foreign nationals may be able to get assistance from their country’s consulate.  Read our article about seeking consular assistance in Mexico for further details.

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A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Mexico City

Northern England Writer

The Mexican capital, in all its sprawling enormity, can be overwhelming for any visitor – whether it’s your first time here or your 30th. But with a little insider knowledge, you’ll soon fall in love with this engaging, energetic city. Here are the top tips for traveling solo in Mexico City , from impressing with some local lingo to knowing the right places to stay.

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Learn some basic Spanish

While many people in the capital know some English, particularly those working in the tourism industry, a good chunk won’t have a clue what you’re saying. So brush up on a few basic phrases before you land at Mexico City International Airport. A gracias or por favor goes a long way, but if you can master some key phrases – disculpe, ¿dónde está el baño? (excuse me, where is the bathroom?) – you’ll soon start to mix with the locals.

Hit up the top tourist attractions

If you’re a solo traveler in Mexico City, don’t swerve the big-name attractions. Yes, the most popular landmarks have a heavy footfall, but they’re popular for a reason. Among the must-visits are the Zócalo, around which you’ll find the grand Catedral Metropolitana and the Aztec ruins of the Templo Mayor; Chapultepec Park, the biggest green space in the city; and La Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s home and now a museum dedicated to her life and works. It’s the mix of essential landmarks and little-known hip hangouts that makes this city one of the best places in Mexico for solo travel.

Stay in areas with tons of foot traffic

If you’re going it alone in the capital, stay in a busy area. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers and you’ll probably feel more comfortable with others around. If you want easy access to the big-name landmarks, book a room near the Zocalo. But to mix with the cool kids, base yourself in the trendy neighborhoods of Roma or Condesa.

Take care with your prized possessions

When you’re traveling alone in Mexico City, always watch out for your valuables – as you would in any major city. Basic precautions should protect your essential items: never carry your passport or large amounts of cash; keep your bag zipped up and near you at all times; and don’t keep your cell phone and wallet where they can be easily grabbed.

Stay in one of the top hostels in the city

It’s one of the top traveler destinations in the world, and one of the largest capital cities in the Americas, so unsurprisingly there are several excellent hostels in Mexico City . The benefits? You’ll be surrounded by like-minded people looking to have similar experiences to yourself. You might even have your mind opened to things you hadn’t considered.

Try out the Turibus

If you’re not confident to traipse the streets of Mexico City alone, then why not hop on the super-convenient Turibus? This open-top doubledecker will transport you around the city highlights for a reasonable price, so you can be sure you’ve got your fill of attractions and culture.

Taste the street food

Mexico City is renowned for having exquisite street food – you’ll find delicious corn, cheese and meat combos on practically every corner. But if you’re traveling alone, how do you make sure you pick the right street-food stall? If there’s no-one to ask, your safest bet is heading to the busiest vendor. Their quick turnover means your food will be freshly cooked, while the large crowds are a sure sign your meal will be good.

Steer clear of certain areas

Is Mexico City safe for solo travelers? Absolutely. But don’t put yourself in unnecessary danger. As with any city, there are some areas to avoid. The most notable example is Tepito – a neighborhood with a dicey rep.

Don’t use the metro late at night

While the metro runs until at least midnight every day, you shouldn’t use it alone late at night. The rush hour often lasts until 9pm in heavily populated areas, after which the carriages become eerily empty. Plus, many stations have several exits – come out the wrong one and you might be disoriented in the dark.

Download Uber

The most practical thing the solo traveler in Mexico City could do is download the Uber app. It’s a simple solution to getting around the city without diving into taxis or taking the metro.

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7 Tips for Finding Budget-Friendly Mexico City Airport Transportation

L anded at the sprawling metropolis and feeling the pinch of pricey cabs? Let’s cut straight to the chase: snagging budget-friendly Mexico City airport transportation is your first step towards a savvy travel experience.

Forget the stress of haggling with taxi drivers or navigating a complex public transport system right off the bat. Whether you’re here to explore the vibrant streets, dive into the rich history, or indulge in the culinary delights, how you get from the airport sets the tone for your entire trip.

This article is your golden ticket to avoiding those wallet-thinning rides. Here, we’re laying out seven unbeatable tips that promise not just savings but a smooth start to your adventure in Mexico City. Ready to make your travel budget work harder for you? Stick with us to uncover the secrets to cost-effective commuting right from your touchdown.

1. Use the Metro System

When you land in Mexico City, one of the most budget-friendly ways to start your adventure is by hopping on the Metro. It’s not just cheap. It’s a direct line into the city’s heart.

The Metro offers a straightforward route for getting to your hotel without the high costs of other transportation options. Look for the Line 5, which is a short walk from Terminal 1.

This is the cheapest way to travel from the airport with tickets costing around 5 MXN ($0.20). It takes around 50 minutes to reach most locations in central Mexico City.

Traveling with lots of luggage? Keep in mind that large luggage is technically not allowed but this is rarely enforced. You might struggle during busy periods, however, as the Metro can get very crowded during rush hours in the morning and evening .

2. Consider Ride-Sharing Apps

Ride-sharing apps have changed the game when it comes to vacation transportation. In Mexico City, these apps provide a viable alternative to traditional taxis, often at a lower cost.

Apps like Uber and Didi are popular and offer transparent pricing and the convenience of booking a ride right from your phone. This makes managing your travel plans a breeze. Plus, you can see the cost upfront, so there are no surprises.

When using these apps, double-check the vehicle and driver details before you get in for a secure journey to your destination.

3. Look into Authorized Taxis

Authorized taxis at Mexico City’s airport offer a stress-free option for getting where you need to go. These taxis are regulated which ensures fair, fixed rates and a safe ride.

To use this service, look for the authorized taxi stands inside the airport with the sign “Transporte Terrestre”. Here, you’ll purchase a prepaid ticket for your destination. This system prevents any unexpected costs which makes it a reliable part of your vacation transportation.

Remember, picking a taxi outside the airport might not guarantee the same security and fixed pricing as the authorized services do.

4. Explore Bus Services

Bus services from Mexico City’s airport are another economical choice for travelers. These buses are not only affordable but also connect you directly to key points across the city.

They’re an integral part of the types of transportation available for newcomers and locals alike. For instance, the Metrobus Line 4 extends from the airport to the historic city center and offers a convenient route for tourists.

Buses run frequently, so waiting times are minimal. Plus, traveling by bus gives you a unique view of the city’s landscape as you head to your hotel or next destination.

5. Research Shuttle Services

Finding a ride from the airport that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg can be a real headache. Shuttle services are a lifesaver for the solo traveler with a tight budget, especially if you’re lugging around a suitcase or two.

You can book a spot on a shuttle, which is usually a minibus or large car, right at the airport. Head over to the kiosks in the arrivals hall to secure your seat.

It’s a bit cheaper than a cab, costing around $9 per person to the city center. Sure, it might take a tad longer since you’ll be dropping off other folks along the way, but if you’re not in a rush, it’s worth the savings.

However, weigh your options because sometimes, the difference in price and time might not be as significant as you’d think.

6. Rent a Car

If you’re feeling bold and want total freedom to explore, renting a car might be up your alley. It’s the priciest option for getting out of Mexico City’s airport but could be a good investment for those planning to venture beyond the city.

Driving here is no joke, though. With the bustling traffic and the challenge of finding parking, it’s not for everyone. If you do decide to rent, try to avoid peak traffic hours to make your escape from the airport a little smoother.

You’ll find all the major rental companies at the airport, but booking online in advance is a smart move to snag the best deal. Just remember, navigating the city’s busy streets requires confidence and a bit of courage.

7. Book Transportation in Advance

To dodge the stress of last-minute decisions, consider booking your airport transfers before you even pack your bags. Doing this can lock in some pretty decent rates and save you money and time. Whether it’s a shuttle, a taxi, or a private car, early bookings mean you won’t be left stranded or paying through the nose.

For those staying at hotels, check if they offer shuttle services. Sometimes they’re free or at a discounted rate.

Planning ahead not only makes your travel smoother but also gives you peace of mind. After all, who wants to haggle with taxi drivers or navigate public transport systems after a long flight?

Explore More Mexico City Airport Transportation Tips

Navigating Mexico City airport transportation doesn’t have to be a budget-buster. Armed with our seven tips, you’re all set to make your way through this bustling city with more pesos in your pocket. From the convenience of ride-sharing apps to the economic efficiency of the metro, these strategies ensure your travel plans are as seamless as they are cost-effective.

Don’t let transportation hiccups dampen your Mexico City adventure. Dive deeper into our blog for more insights on getting around like a local without breaking the bank.

This article is published by NYTech in collaboration with Syndication Cloud.

Guadalupe Insurgentes, México City

Guadalupe Insurgentes

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Texas-Mexico cities discuss partnership, host business expo

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - A town on the Texas-Mexico border is demonstrating how a healthy relationship with Mexican cities can help communities thrive.

“We don’t see Acuña and Del Rio as two different cities,” Louis Urraza, Acuña’s economic development director, said. “We see it as a group where we can work together and grow our economies.”

Acuña, Mexico, and Del Rio, Texas, are separated by less than 10 miles. Leaders in both cities are highlighting their collaboration amid a border crisis marked by record numbers of border crossings. While much attention has focused on immigration issues, city leaders emphasize the importance of the partnerships that sustain their communities.

“It’s not just what people see up north in the U.S. — that’s immigration problems, that’s drugs, that’s all these bad things coming,” Jorge Ramon, Del Rio’s economic development director, said.

Ramon noted that the international bridge connecting Del Rio and Acuña facilitates around $20 million a year in trade for Del Rio. To showcase this, the cities hosted a manufacturing and industrial expo, highlighting businesses in both towns that work together to boost the economy.

“Yes, we have been the shining star with immigration problems, but also we are going to be the shining star with importation,” Del Rio Mayor Alvaro Arreola said.

To further strengthen these partnerships and improve trade efficiency, Mayor Arreola said there are numerous infrastructure projects underway. These projects aim to enhance the connection between the two cities and create more expansion opportunities.

“We are in two countries, but we feel as if we are one region. We have a bridge, a river in the middle, but we are family. On both sides of the river, we are family. We depend on each other economically because if Del Rio does well, then Acuña does well.”

The overarching message from these city leaders is clear: unity. By prioritizing families, businesses, and jobs, both Del Rio and Acuña aim to continue thriving together as one interconnected region.

Copyright 2024 KCBD. All rights reserved.

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