Mexico Travel Guide

 

Here are some things you must know before flying to Mexico. First, make sure not to bring any large bottles of liquids like shampoo or other hair products. Second, you will need to take a COVID test even if you have been vaccinated before flying back from Cancun. Third, when you fly back from Cancun be sure to arrive early at the airport as you will need to sign a form saying that you tested negative for COVID and then after passing through security you will have to fill out a COVID questionnaire. So again I stress: arrive early.

Things you must do when you arrived in Mexico:

1)
Cancún/Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Valladolid & Cenote Tour 

This tour stops in three different locations in Chichén Itzá: a local store, a cenote, and a small church. Get ready for a long ride, approximately twelve hours. The cenote is a cavernous opening to an underground waterway, and it is an exciting place to explore and swim. The scenery is amazing: a giant water hole in the middle of the jungle. The entire activity costs only $62 dollars, and lunch is included. I recommend bringing extra bottles of water and a face mask as it is required on the bus.

2)

Cancun Submarine and Optional Snorkeling Tour

This is a fascinating excursion and is only four hours long. This is also a great activity if you are traveling by yourself. I met a group from California during the boat ride and had a great time getting to know them. Snorkeling is optional, and not everyone will feel comfortable with the equipment (which is provided), but I highly recommend trying it as the underwater scenery is absolutely amazing. Afterwards, before heading back, complimentary drinks are served.

3)

Transportation and getting around in Mexico

There are two buses you can take around the hotel zone. Route 2 goes to and from the market, with one route branching off towards the beach. Keep Google Maps open while on the bus so you know when to alight.

You can take the bus from any of the hotels, and they travel in one direction, so there is no confusion of which bus to get on. Don’t be afraid to ask the hotel concierge for directions, though, as bus stops are not marked. That said, do not ask the bus driver as they have a tendency to say yes no matter where they are ultimately heading! Taxi drivers also see opportunities in green tourists! Be sure to ask and agree a price BEFORE getting in a taxi. For example, if you are planning to take a taxi from airport, know that the airport is only about 15 minutes away from the hotel area and that it should cost no more than 250 to 300 pesos.

4)

Restaurants in Mexico

While you can stay at an all-inclusive resort and be treated to endless plates of fancy food, you may actually be missing the true delectable local tastes of the area. Cancun is very tourist friendly and relatively safe. Get out, explore the area, and enjoy many local restaurants and cafes. Highlights include fresh handmade tacos and local seafood. One place I found myself going back to because it was just that good was a little family-owned restaurant named El Rinconcito de Puebla Tacos. The tacos were absolutely superb and amazingly inexpensive, ranging from 50 to 120 pesos. The beer was just as cheap, and the owners and staff were very friendly and happy to chat. Another of my favourites was a quaint little cafe named Ninfa’s Cafe. The homemade breakfasts, all cooked within sight, were beyond scrumptious. Fresh eggs, fruits and local sausages: superb!