Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Mexico, our neighbor to the south! There are so many things I love about Mexico and we keep coming back. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate (or at least find a bit annoying) on your Mexico trip.
Hate #1: Security Issues
A lot of people have concerns about security in Mexico. People worry about kidnappings and murders, but those really aren’t a major concern in any of the major places where a traveler might go. Generally, the areas with the most issues are along the borders and specifically the U.S. border. While you do need to be aware of your surroundings, most of Mexico is not nearly as dangerous as you might think. Just take the usual precautions: check the state department’s website, use your hotel safe, keep your money in your front pockets and don’t flash expensive jewelry or electronics.
Love #1: People of Mexico
Mexican people are so friendly and helpful. They’re so proud of their culture and their history; they love to share it with visitors and take you around to the important sights. Make sure you take a bit of time to get to know the locals. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, set aside some time to go off-property and hang out with some locals. The people are so fantastic in every place I’ve ever been in Mexico. My father worked in Mexico for a number of years and one of my childhood highlights was traveling with him throughout Mexico and meeting so many wonderful people.
Hate #2: Traveling Within Mexico
There aren’t really any trains in Mexico to get between cities, so your options are to fly or take a bus. While there are some nice buses, it can be a long journey between two cities in Mexico. If you are visiting a resort town, this won’t be an issue, but if you are traveling through the heart of Mexico and wish to explore several places to visit in Mexico, either budget for flights or plan enough time to account for a long bus trip.
Love #2: Historic Sights in Mexico
Chichen Itza near Cancun is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. There are Mayan and Aztec ruins all over the country, Spanish Colonial cities like Aguas Calientes, and so many ornate churches and cathedrals. The cities are full of amazing architecture and they do a great job of maintaining and preserving history. Even if you can only get to Mexico City you will see so much history within the city.
Hate #3: Tummy Troubles
There’s a reason it’s called Montezuma’s Revenge. Many travelers end up with tummy troubles when they visit Mexico. You’re not supposed to drink the water, but you could still end up sick from washed fruit or even the food. If you’re not used to spicy food, that could also cause you some trouble. Having tummy troubles doesn’t have to ruin your trip; just make sure you are ready with Imodium or Pepto-Bismol in case anything pops up.
Love #3: Natural Beauty of Mexico
Snorkeling, beaches, mountains, and highlands are just some of the natural features found in Mexico. People think Mexico is all beaches, but it has so much more in addition to beautiful beaches. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, sign up for some eco-tours and check out the nearby natural attractions.
Hate #4: Need to Learn Spanish
To get the most out of your trip, you really need to speak a little bit of Spanish. If you’re coming to an all-inclusive resort in Cancun or Cabo, most people working in the travel industry will speak English. But if you are traveling anywhere else in Mexico, you should learn some Spanish as English is not widely spoken outside of the tourist areas. Speaking a bit of Spanish will really open up doors for you as a tourist, and will help you get to know the locals better. And then they can really share even more about their culture and homeland.
Love #4: Mexico is Affordable
Of course, prices will vary in different areas, but a Mexican vacation is very affordable. If you want to travel to a new country with your family, without spending a fortune, Mexico is a great option. Eating, lodging, and transportation are all very affordable in Mexico. Even the tourist sights are relatively affordable; it’s under $20 to see Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World!
Hate #5: Driving, Parking, Traffic, and Police
In some areas of Mexico, if you want to really experience the countryside, you may need to rent a car. However, renting a car in Mexico can be a pain. You have to get insurance, extra insurance, permits and more. Once you are driving around, the roads aren’t great in all areas, so you’ll have bumpy roads. It’s highly recommended not to drive at night in Mexico. Less because of dangerous people, but the roads are bad and you don’t want to end up stranded after dark in the middle of nowhere. Parking and traffic in Mexico are generally pretty crazy. There are still some police officers looking for bribes, but it’s gotten much better over the years.
Love #5: Mexican Food
The food in Mexico is amazing. The fruits, vegetables, chiles, sauces, seafood are all so good. One of my favorite food memories of Mexico is when a friend’s grandmother made me a quesadilla and it was the tastiest quesadilla I’ve ever had. Make sure you get out of your hotel and go to local restaurants for authentic Mexican food. And if you are expecting to have your Taco Bell style Tex-Mex Mexican food you will be surprised at how different the food is in Mexico, and I bet you love it way more in Mexico. My tip, ask for Chilaquiles, that is my favorite.
There are so many more things I love about Mexico, including the weather, but you get the point. I love Mexico! The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Mexico vacation. Want more Mexico travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:
