Palm-fringed beaches, chili-spiced cuisine, steamy jungles, teeming cities, fiesta fireworks: Mexico conjures diverse, vivid dreams – and then delivers them.
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Beyond the stereotypes of mariachi bands and tacos, Mexico is a cultural giant of the Americas. A massive and diverse country, its history stretches across thousands of years from the ancient Olmec, Maya, and Aztec, though the arrival of Cortés and three centuries of harsh Spanish rule.
For all its familiarity, Mexico is capable of surprising at every turn; to make the mistake of reducing it to a beach resort is like confusing the USA with Las Vegas. Certainly, beaches and beach life rank high as reasons to visit.
Add to the mix ancient sites and vibrant indigenous culture, the cosmopolitan neighbourhoods of the world’s largest city and a cuisine successfully exported around the world, and you’ve got yourself una buena vacacion.
Safety
- Avoid protests and large public gatherings. These can become violent. It’s against the law for foreigners to participate in political activity.
- Mexico has a high risk of violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping. Don’t travel at night outside major cities. Drug-related violence is widespread.
- Kidnapping and extortion are serious risks. Don’t draw attention to your money or business affairs. Only use ATMs in public spaces and during the daytime.
- Stop at all roadblocks, or you risk getting killed.
- Hurricanes and earthquakes are common in Mexico. Local authorities will direct you to your nearest shelter in the event of a hurricane. Know the earthquake safety measures where you’re staying.
Health
- Malaria and Zika virus are risks in Mexico. If you’re pregnant, ask your doctor about the risk of Zika virus before you travel.
- Mexico has insect-borne diseases, including dengue fever, chikungunya, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
- Parts of Mexico are at high altitudes. Air pollution can also cause health issues, particularly over winter (December to February). Talk to your doctor before you travel if you have heart, lung or breathing issues.