Before you purchase transportation to Mexico, check the visa requirements for your country. Citizens of the United States and Canada do not need a visa to travel in Mexico for up to 180 and 30 days, respectively. Citizens of many other countries, including Argentina and France, must apply for a visa before visiting Mexico. All travelers who enter Mexico must show a valid passport to be admitted to the country.
Mexico offers a range of attractions for travelers of all ages and tastes. Those looking for sun, sand and drinks often head to Cancun or Playa del Carmen, where the low drinking age and Westernized clubs attract hoards of college students on spring break. Divers enjoy excellent diving off of Cozumel or near Tulum to the south. In Mexico City, travelers can see evidence of the country's volatile history and multicultural influences. Throughout the country, a wide range of geographic and cultural features make for a unique and adventurous travel experience.
Because it is a relatively poor country, the price of travel in Mexico is generally considerably lower than travel in Europe or the Caribbean. Travelers of all budgets can find their place in Mexico; backpackers enjoy low-cost hostels, while more affluent travelers check into luxurious resorts.
Mexico can be a challenging country for travelers, particularly in urban areas. When traveling in cities such as Mexico City or in popular tourist destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen or the ruins of Chichen Itza, travelers should keep a close watch on their belongings and take care not to walk alone at night. In Mexico City, gang and drug-related violence is common, and travelers should stay out of any deserted areas or protest groups. Females, particularly those with blonde hair, are often the target of catcalls and verbal harassment from passing males; the best way to handle such treatment is to ignore the perpetrators.
Travelers to Mexico will gain greater cultural insight if they understand at least a small amount of Spanish. To the Mexican population, an effort to learn and use the country's language demonstrates respect for the people and culture; such efforts will undoubtedly be rewarded with a greater degree of friendliness. Don't worry about perfect pronunciation or grammar, but concentrate instead on vocabulary.
