MEXICO

Find Flights to Mexico
Search for Hotels in Mexico
Find Things to do in Mexico

Why I Keep Going Back to Mexico

I fell in love with Mexico when I was fifteen on a high school Spanish class field trip. Till this day I still can’t believe my parents let me to go because I didn’t know any Spanish and it wasn’t even my high school. But I had friends going and when someone dropped out last minute they made arrangements for me to fill that spot.

To say that trip changed me is an understatement. It changed everything and Mexico left its marks on me. It’s also a country that changes completely depending on where you go.

Mexico at a Glance

The Basics

Location: Southern North America, bordered by the US to the north, Guatemala and Belize to the south

Best way to explore: Fly into a hub city or resort, rent a car for regional exploration

Known for: Ancient ruins, colonial cities, beaches, food, culture and some of the warmest people you’ll ever meet

Best for: Beach vacations, cultural travel, food tourism, adventure, budget and luxury travel

Best time to visit: November through April for most regions — dry season, lower humidity, ideal weather

Key fact: Mexico is one of the most biodiverse and culturally rich countries in the world — and most visitors only scratch the surface

Travel Basics

Language: Spanish is the official language. Mexico recognizes 69 national languages including 68 indigenous languages. English is spoken in most tourist areas.

Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). Cash is still important in many areas — ATMs are widely available but notify your bank before you travel.

Tipping: Expected and appreciated. 10–15% at restaurants is standard. Tip hotel staff, drivers and tour guides in pesos when possible.

Electricity: Same plug type and voltage as the US (Type A/B, 120V). No adapter needed.

Entry Requirements: Valid passport required. US and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays under 180 days. An FMM tourist card is required for all visits — free for stays under 7 days, paid for longer stays.

Water: Do not drink tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water — most hotels and resorts provide it.

How to Travel Mexico

The resort corridors of Cancún and Puerto Vallarta are completely different from Oaxaca or Copper Canyon. Where you go changes everything about how you travel.

First-timers often start with the coasts — and for good reason. But Mexico rewards the curious. The deeper you go, the more it gives. A little Spanish goes a long way and the people will meet you more than halfway.

After 30-plus years of coming back, I’m still finding new corners. That’s the thing about Mexico — it doesn’t let go.

Where to Go in Mexico

Mexico is not one destination — it’s hundreds. How far you want to dive in is strictly up to you. Here’s a rough guide of what’s where and who it’s for.

The Beach Destinations

From the Pacific coast to the Caribbean side, Mexico’s beaches are as different as the people who visit them. The Pacific and Caribbean coasts feel like completely different countries and they kind of are. Even Baja is a different place.

Puerto Vallarta is colonial and charming with a real city behind the beach.

The Riviera Maya — Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum — is resort heavy and built for tourism, which isn’t a criticism, just a fact. They’re both great for first timers and all-inclusive travelers.

Mexico City

The city that started it all for me. Overwhelming, fascinating and unlike anywhere else on earth. Most people fly over it on the way to the beach. Don’t. Give it at least three days.

Read: Weekend in Mexico City

The Cultural Interior

Puebla, Guanajuato, Mérida — this is the Mexico that doesn’t make the resort brochures and it’s some of the best travel you’ll ever do. Food, art, colonial architecture and history that you’ve never heard..

Baja

Cabo gets all the attention but Baja is so much more than that. Two states, very different. Desert landscapes, whale watching in Magdalena Bay, wine country in Valle de Guadalupe and a pace that feels nothing like mainland Mexico. It its own trip and own place.

Baja California Sur: Things to Do

Off the Beaten Path

Campeche, Huatulco, Nayarit — the Mexico most tourists never see. I’ve been to some of these places and they’re worth the extra bus ride. If you’ve already done the obvious destinations, start here.

Types of Travel in Mexico

Mexico works for almost every travel style — you just have to know which version you’re booking. All-inclusive resorts along the Riviera Maya are perfect for a first trip, a family vacation or when you just want everything handled. The Pacific coast is better for travelers who want a more classic Mexico experience. City travel in Mexico City or Oaxaca City for the curious and the adventurous. And if ruins and cenotes are on your list, the Yucatán Peninsula is in a category of its own.

Palm tree along the malecon in Puerto Vallarta

When to Go to Mexico

Dry Season (November–April) — the sweet spot for most of Mexico. Best for the Pacific coast, Baja and the Yucatán. Temperatures are mild, rain is minimal and everything is open. Peak season means higher prices and more crowds at the popular spots — book ahead.

Rainy Season (May–October) — afternoons bring rain but mornings are often beautiful. Prices drop, crowds thin and the landscape turns green. A good time for Mexico City and the interior where the rain is more predictable. Not the best for beach trips unless you’re flexible.

Hurricane Season (June–November) — primarily affects the Caribbean side and the Pacific coast. Not a reason to avoid Mexico but worth understanding before you book. Travel insurance is especially important during these months.

Planning Your Mexico Trip

Want help choosing where to go in Mexico or building an itinerary that actually fits your travel style? I can help you plan it.

Start with these guides:

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Mexico

Yes — Mexico is generally safe for travelers, especially in popular tourist regions like the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Baja California Sur. Like any destination, safety depends on where you go and how you travel. Staying aware of your surroundings, using reputable transportation, and avoiding risky areas helps ensure a smooth trip.

Travelers from the U.S. and Canada do not need a visa for short tourist stays under 180 days. A valid passport is required and visitors may need to complete an FMM tourist card depending on arrival method.

No. It’s recommended to avoid tap water and stick to bottled or filtered water. Most hotels, resorts, and restaurants provide safe drinking water.

The best time to visit is typically November through April during the dry season. Weather is more predictable, especially for beach destinations. Summer months are hotter and wetter but often less crowded and more affordable.

No, but knowing a few basic phrases helps. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but Spanish is appreciated and useful when exploring beyond major resorts and cities

Mexico can fit a wide range of budgets. Resort areas tend to be more expensive, while cities, local restaurants, and inland destinations can be very affordable.

Let’s Build Your Mexico Trip

Not sure where to start with Mexico? I’ll help you plan a trip that fits your travel style.

Fill out this form and let’s get started.

Mexico Travel Guides

25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico

Not all of Mexico is beaches — and this list proves it. Here are 25 of the best places to visit in Mexico from someone who has personally been to every single one.

7 Terrific Things To Do in Tepic, Nayarit

Tepic might not be on every traveler’s list, but that’s exactly what makes it worth exploring. You’ll find beautiful colors and architecture and a walkable downtown. This guide features some of the best things to do in Tepic

Puerto Vallarta Weather in August: What to Expect

Wondering about Puerto Vallarta weather in August? It’s the middle of rainy season and it’s hot but with a little bit of planning you can still have a great trip. Keep reading for what to expect and a few tips.

Is Mexico Safe? Advice From a Solo Female Traveler

Despite the fact that Mexico is one of the most popular destinations in the world the question is Mexico safe is what I’m asked about most often. Let’s take a look at some official data and talk about it.

5 Essential Apps for Traveling in Mexico

Traveling to Mexico can be challenging and leave you feeling a bit lost if you aren’t prepared. But with the right tools it’s no problem. In this article, I’m sharing my favorite 5 apps for traveling in Mexico that I use every time.

Traveling to Cabo San Lucas | Where to Stay + What to Eat

Cabo San Lucas is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico. With its gorgeous beaches and aquamarine waters, succulent food and seafood and water activities galore, you can see why travelers love it. Check out my top picks for where to stay, how to get around and the best tacos in CSL!

20 Exciting Things To Do in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas offers a multitude of exciting activities for visitors to enjoy. From thrilling water sports to visiting iconic landmarks like the Arch of Cabo, there’s something for first timers, cruisers and repeat visitors. Read my list of things to do in Cabo San Lucas to help find the perfect activity.

How Do You Say Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and friendly people but just exactly how do you say Puerto Vallarta? In this article, you’ll learn how to pronounce it the right way once and for all.

How to Spend 24 Hours in Guadalajara

Traveling through Guadalajara or have a layover there? You’d be surprised how much you can see a in a day with a walking tour, a couple of museums and of course a delicious torta ahogada – here’s how to spend 24 hours in Guadalajara and explore the historic center.

The Perfect Weekend in Mexico City: a 3 Day Itinerary

A weekend in Mexico City is plenty of time to experience the city’s history, culture and energy if you plan well. Explore historic sites and world-class museums, sample street food and wander green parks in the best city in the world! Here’s how.

7 Best Day Trips from Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is known for its stunning beaches and friendly people. However, sometimes it’s nice to venture outside the city and explore the surrounding areas. Luckily, there are many beautiful beaches just a short ride away. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best beach day trips from Puerto Vallarta.

Two Days in Sayulita: Sun + Sand + Seafood

Get ready for two-days of adventure in Sayulita. This cute surf town is the perfect escape to soak up some sun. With its quirky art scene, beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe, Sayulita is a destination that shouldn’t be missed.

México lindo y querido
Si muero lejos de ti
Que digan que estoy dormido
Y que me traigan aquíjorge negrete

Jose Negrete