Travel tips: Mexico

Heading out from home? We’ve gathered some tips to make sure your trip is the smoothest it can be.

About Mexico

Mexico (Spanish: México [ˈmexiko]; Nahuatl languages: Mēxihco), officially the United Mexican States (UMS; Spanish: Estados Unidos Mexicanos, EUM [esˈtaðos uˈniðoz mexiˈkanos], lit. Mexican United States), is a country in the southern portion of North America. It is bordered to the north by the United States; to the south and west by the Pacific Ocean; to the southeast by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea; and to the east by the Gulf of Mexico.

Using debit and credit card

Do I need cash in Mexico, or can I use my card everywhere?

Cash is widely used, but cards are also accepted. It is advisable to carry some cash with you at all times.

What currency do they use here?

The currency here is Mexican peso. The symbol is $ or MXN.

Which ATM’s can I use for free?

Free ATM’s withdraws:

• BBVA

If I want cash, how much should I take out of an ATM?

2 000 MXN should be enough for a few days.

Should I choose local currency or Euros when paying?

If you’re asked to choose between local currency and Euros, always choose local currency.

Staying connected

Can I roam, or should I get a local SIM?

Most EU mobile plans will charge you for roaming.

Wifi is readily available, especially in coffee shops.

If you want to get a local SIM card, you can learn about your options here.

Useful things to know

How does tipping work?

It is common to leave a tip between 10-20%.

How much does a 0.5L beer cost?

€ 1,40

How much does an average meal cost?

€ 4,60

What’s the emergency number?

911

What type of plug do they use?

This one! It’s the standard American plug.

What side of the road do they drive on?

They drive on the right side of the road here.

How do I navigate my way around?

Google and Apple Maps both work well here.

Otherwise, we recommend Rome2Rio as the best way to find out how to get anywhere. It even tells you the cost of each option.

Any other good tips?

Try the traditional Elote, the Mexican name for corn on the cob. Spicy, for sure!

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If you’ve been to Mexico share your experience! The following would be really useful for others to know:

• Which ATMs are free to use? 
• What card should I use and where?
• Any other info you think may be useful.

Share your experience with us in the comments below!