Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re posting from Chichén Itzá in Mexico. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the ten travel shocks of visiting Mexico.
#1: People of Mexico
The people of Mexico are the first shock. They are so friendly and super helpful, no matter where you go in Mexico. From the big cities, to the beach towns, and all over Mexico, the people of Mexico are what make the country amazing. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with some locals, and you’ll be amazed at the friendliness.
#2: Drinking Tequila in Mexico
Lick it, slam it, suck it? Not in Mexico! Tequila in Mexico is different; you won’t see the locals slamming shots with salt and lime. The tequila here is smooth, and you can sip it like a normal drink. If you prefer a mixed drink with tequila, get some fresca or grapefruit juice and enjoy tequila like the locals do.
#3 Culture and History in Mexico
People are often shocked at how much culture and history there is in Mexico. Chichén Itzá is one of the seven wonders of the world. But it’s not just Mayan history in Mexico; there’s Aztec history, Spanish Colonial history and Mexican history. There are over 30 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico, from Guadalajara history to the natural beauty of cenotes. There are so many things to do in Mexico, in addition to the amazing beaches and resorts.
#4 Mexican Food in Mexico
You may be shocked at how different the Mexican food is in Mexico, versus what you are used to at your local Mexican restaurants back home. Mexican restaurants in the States have usually adapted to American tastes, and what you are used to is more than likely Tex-Mex, rather than authentic Mexican food. The food in Mexico is amazing; and it varies greatly from region to region! You’ll have awesome fresh seafood in Baja, delicious goat in Jalisco, and elotes on street corners everywhere. Don’t just stick to the Mexican food you recognize, try some new things.
#5 Cabo & Cancun are Not Representative of Mexico
The majority of international travelers to Mexico head to the big resort towns like Cancun, Cabo San Lucas and Cozumel. But there is so much more to Mexico. These areas are the tourist versions of Mexico, and not the place to experience real Mexican culture. This is akin to seeing only Orlando in the United States. If you have a chance, make sure you get out and explore off the tourist path in Mexico, to experience Mexican culture at it’s finest.
Watch: Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Cancun
#6 Montezuma’s Revenge
Traveler’s diarrhea is so common in Mexico that it has a name: Montezuma’s Revenge. It’s a real shock when it hits you! The most common culprit is from consuming tap water in Mexico. Most travelers know not to drink water from the tap, but sometimes forget about ice, or fruit and vegetables washed in tap water. Some of the big tourist resorts will filter the water for ice, but always ask, especially if you are not at a big resort.
Watch: How to Avoid Traveler’s Diarrhea
#7 Missing Toilet Seats
If you use public restrooms in Mexico, you might notice that the toilets are missing a seat. It’s a common sight around Mexico, and nothing to be alarmed at. Just be prepared to squat, or make a makeshift toilet cover out of paper.
#8 Mexico Weather
In most parts of Mexico, the weather is warm and sunny almost all of the time. The heat, and the dry air can both be dangerous if you’re not prepared for it. Make sure you’re staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen and covering up on hot days. Afternoon siesta is a good time to take a break from the sun and enjoy some shade.
#9 Driving in Mexico
Driving in Mexico, or even being a passenger, can be shocking. The driving can seem pretty crazy when you are used to the orderly traffic of the States. If you decide to drive in Mexico, you really need to be careful. Don’t expect everything to work, like seatbelts, and avoid driving at night. There are tons of buses in Mexico to get you around, and it’s much easier than driving yourself. (You get what you pay for, so get the most expensive bus ticket you can afford!)
#10 Shopping in Mexico
Bargaining is a big part of shopping in Mexico, so if you’re at the markets, prepare to bargain down the price of your souvenirs. No matter what you are buying at the market, it’s constant bargaining and it can get tiring after a while, especially if you have a lot of shopping to do. So, the rule is: never take the first price offered. This applies to tours and taxis, too.
We hope these ten tips help you prepare to visit Mexico, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Mexico? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos: