Unforgettable Mexican Vacation: A Comprehensive Guide

Our holiday in Mexico was nothing short of spectacular! Mexico is a destination that truly has it all: breathtaking natural landscapes, the intriguing Mayan culture, pristine tropical beaches, and mouthwatering cuisine. Plus, the locals are incredibly friendly and hospitable. To help you prepare for your trip, I’m sharing some practical tips that I wish I had known before my journey.

Essential Tips for Your Mexican Vacation

One of the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Mexico is: “Is it safe?” While it’s always advisable to check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website before departure, I can assure you that I never felt unsafe during my entire stay. My journey took me through Yucatan and Quintana Roo, both of which are considered safe regions in Mexico. They are also great for a family road trip.

Traveling with children can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to long-haul destinations. However, Mexico, with its rich culture, beautiful beaches, and kid-friendly attractions, is a destination that both you and your children will love. Here are some tips and recommendations for a family-friendly holiday in Mexico.

Choosing the Right Accommodation

When traveling with kids, it’s crucial to choose the right accommodation. Look for family-friendly hotels or resorts that offer amenities such as kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and spacious rooms. Some resorts even offer babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy some alone time.

Exploring the Rich Mexican Culture

Mexico is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of opportunities for your kids to learn and have fun at the same time. Visit the Mayan ruins, explore the local markets, or take a cooking class to learn about traditional Mexican cuisine.

Enjoying the Beautiful Beaches

Mexico is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Whether you prefer to relax on the sandy shores, build sandcastles with your kids, or engage in water sports, there’s a beach for every family in Mexico.

Visiting Kid-Friendly Attractions

There are plenty of attractions in Mexico that are perfect for kids. Visit the interactive museums, take a boat ride in the Xochimilco canals, or explore the Chapultepec Zoo. Your kids will have a blast while learning about Mexico’s biodiversity.

Staying Safe

While Mexico is generally safe for tourists, it’s always important to take precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, use reputable taxi services, and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.

With its mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation, Mexico is a fantastic destination for a family holiday. Plan your trip carefully, and you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Essential Tips for Island Hopping: Carry Cash

During our first night in Mexico, we stayed on Isla Holbox, a fantastic tropical island. Isla Holbox boasts waving palm trees, an azure blue sea, pearly white beaches, and unfortunately, no working ATM machines during our visit. The only ATM we found was out of order. Therefore, ensure you have enough cash on hand before boarding the ferry to this tropical paradise.

Consider All Risk Insurance When Renting a Car

When we rented a car, we received some sage advice: always opt for all risk insurance in Mexico. The likelihood of damaging the car is higher than not. True to this advice, we returned the car with some damage.

Road users in Mexico often disregard traffic rules, leading to potentially hazardous situations. Additionally, you may encounter poles placed in nonsensical locations and unexpected speed bumps on roads with high speed limits.

Typically, it’s more cost-effective to secure all risk insurance when booking ahead rather than at your destination. It’s worth checking this out before your departure.

Essential Tips for Traveling in Mexico

When planning a trip to Mexico, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate your way around this vibrant country.

Stock Up on Essentials

Large supermarkets, such as Aki and Chedraui, are primarily located in the larger cities. In smaller towns, you’ll find that the supermarkets are smaller and carry fewer items. However, you can still purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at local markets or roadside stands. If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, it’s a good idea to stock up on these items when you come across a large supermarket.

Dispose of Toilet Paper Correctly

In Mexico, it’s customary to dispose of used toilet paper in a waste bin rather than flushing it down the toilet. The sewer systems in Mexico are not designed to handle large amounts of toilet paper, so flushing it can cause blockages. Most bathrooms will have a small waste bin (often with a lid) for this purpose.

Be Mindful When Refueling

When refueling your vehicle in Mexico, be sure to check that the amount you’re charged matches the amount of gas you’ve actually received. We’ve noticed discrepancies a few times during our travels. Also, keep in mind that gas stations can be few and far between, especially in more rural areas. So, when you come across one, it’s a good idea to fill up your tank.

Should You Stop for Waving People?

During the early stages of our trip, we fell for the “waving people trick” a few times. You might see people waving flags in the distance, causing you to brake instinctively, thinking something is amiss. However, in our experience, this is often a clever sales tactic. If you stop, someone will approach your car and spin a nonsensical tale. Often, you can’t leave until you’ve paid, or they offer you a parking space at a price that’s ten times higher than what you’d pay a little further down the road. My advice? Keep driving, as stopping rarely leads to anything positive.

Don’t Forget Your Snorkeling Masks

Here’s a final tip for those planning a holiday in Mexico: bring a snorkel mask! Yes, a full-face snorkel mask. This type of mask allows even small children to snorkel, and it’s convenient for adults as well. You can rent regular snorkels in many places, but remember, these have been used by others. It’s also nice to be able to explore the water at all the beautiful spots where rentals are not available.

Our Accommodations in Mexico

During our holiday in Mexico, we had the pleasure of staying in some truly amazing apartments and hotels. Each one boasted a pool and an ideal location, making our stay all the more enjoyable.

• Cielito Holbox – Isla Holbox
• Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows – Chichen Itza (with the secret entrance into Chicken Itza)
• Azul 36 Hotel – Bacalar
• Coco Village – Tulum

Our Experience in Mexico

Having visited over 45 countries, I can confidently say that Mexico was a delightful surprise! I highly recommend it as a travel destination. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your own adventure.

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