Travel Advice for Mexico
Travelling to a new destination for the first time can often be quite daunting, especially if you are not quite sure exactly what to expect. From safety tips to shopping tips, here are a few snippets of travel advice that promise to be a useful read before you set off for Mexico.
Avoid Flagging Taxis on the Street
While hailing a cab from the side of the street may not seem like a dangerous activity, this is a way in which a number of tourists are targeted each year, as thieves either pose as taxi drivers, or work with taxi drivers, to take advantage of visitors. Instead, if you need a taxi, have your hotel or restaurant call you one, so that you can be sure that they are from a reputable company.
Pack Breathable Fabrics
Many people travel to Mexico and watch in wonder as the locals go about their business in long, covered clothing, especially when the heat is really beating it down. However, the secret here is the fact that their clothing is made from breathable fabrics, such as cottons and linens. Even the traditional huipil, which is still worn throughout eastern Mexico, is made from cotton to ensure that the wearer does not end up feeling too hot. So, when packing your suitcase, be sure to leave the synthetics at home and opt for natural fabrics as much as possible.
Try to Speak Some Spanish
When visiting a new country, it is always a good idea to learn a few words in the local language beforehand. Not only does this improve upon your own language skills, but it is also something that locals will really appreciate when you are speaking to them. If you Spanish is extremely rusty, do not feel embarrassed, as locals are likely to help you out with your words and pronunciations rather than mock you.
Taste Regional Specialities
Mexican food is now available all over the world, but the food that you will actually encounter in Mexico is likely to be quite different from the Mexican cuisine you will have tasted in the past. While tacos, enchiladas and all of your other favorites will still be available, Mexican cuisine is so much more complex than this, and each region will have their own range of speciality dishes. From Mayan-influenced dishes to meals that date back to the Aztecs, make sure that you sample a wide variety of dishes when travelling to Mexico.
Don’t Drink Tap Water
The tap water in Mexico is not safe to drink, and this includes the ice that is made from it, so be sure to purchase bottled water when travelling through the country. Some hotels may have purified tap water, but unless there is a sign stating this, be sure not to drink it.
Mexico is a diverse and fascinating country, with so much to offer. While you do need to take a few travel precautions when visiting, do not forget to let your guard down so that you can really enjoy the warmth and generosity that you will experience from locals.
