Mexico- How to get around within the country

Welcome to Mexico… now how do I get around?

Getting around town by taxi is the preferred method of transportation in Mexico. Traveling within the town or on short trips generally has low, set fares as they are pre-determined by zones. Even the costs of trips to nearby cities are generally low, costing an average of $15-$20. Speak with your hotel staff as many resorts have a service or can help advise you of the best transportation method. Also, the government fails to enforce taxi regulations and there are many “illegal” taxi services. Don’t be surprised if your driver looks young, this is common practice in Mexico. Drivers can be as young as 15 years old, with parental permission of course! The legal driving age is 18… You also might be surprised to know that passengers can drink in the vehicle, however, the driver is not allowed. Rightfully so!

The bus is another popular transportation method used in Mexico. The bus system is not regulated by safety and will squeeze as many people in the bus as possible, so forget breathing room or personal space. In fact, during rush hours, people will be hanging out of the front and back of the bus! The fair is inexpensive and is sure to give you a taste of the “real” Mexican life. Because of these close quarters for travel, watch out for pick-pockets.

Lastly, walking. If you are in walking distance of attractions then walking can be a good option. Be aware that drivers do not always obey the set speed limits and rarely respect the pedestrian right of way rule. Have a careful eye out for the reckless drivers and make sure all cars are stopped before crossing. Additionally, the sidewalks may not be in the best condition. Tree roots and other obstacles may make you walk a little uneasy. It is not recommended for people in wheelchairs.

Whatever your transportation needs, Mexico is relatively easy to get around and has many options for tourists. Checking with the hotel staff is advised as they may have a service they provide to guests.

Mexico:Hotels and Hostels

Finding a place to stay while you are away should definitely be one of the most researched elements of the trip, along with attractions, restaurants, flight fare, etc. Your home away from home can help symbolize the essence of your trip. It can be in the center of the night life if you are looking for a fun and busy trip. It can be the oasis off the beaten path for a more quiet and relaxing trip. It can be a small, secluded spa for the romantic types who are looking to reconnect. It can be a combination!

Researching hotels to stay in during your trip can often help you understand the town in which you are staying. It will force you to find a place close to the attractions most important to you in the thought of saving time and money while being a place that has all the amenities you are looking for.

Below are a few hotel and hostel suggestions in three of the most popular cities in Mexico. The hotels and hostels range in price, quality, location and other elements. Don’t take my word for it, do some research for yourself as you may be looking for something different to suit your specific qualifications!

Let’s start with Cancun:

The Le Blanc Spa- A five star hotel with excellent amenities, this hotel offers incredible views, complimentary breakfast, spa and health club facilities among the other excellent amenities and a great location. This hotel might be at the top of some people’s budget.

Hostel Quetzal- Voted the best hostel in Cancun in 2008 by HostelWorld and winning the best value award in January of 2009 by HostelBookers, this hotel will offer a great value that won’t break the bank. Your stay can include free internet, free breakfast, a private tanning terrace, nightly cocktail parties including beer nights, tequila nights, bbq nights and hostel outings with the owners to local sporting events. This hostel hosts a great location and an overall rating of 90% by its reviewers!

Head west to Acapulco:

Grand Mayan Acapulco- This four star hotel features a new water park friendly to families, ocean views and spa and health club facilities. The clean and beautiful resort also hosts Robert and Benjamin Alacon. These friendly brothers are well-liked and recommended hotel tour-guides who provide transportation, knowledgeable tours and excellent city recommendations.

Las Brisas- Over-looking the Acapulco Bay, this hotel provides rooms with private pools and balconies. If you are looking for a romantic get away, this is the hotel for you! The once adult only hotel offers free breakfast, a spa and jeeps that offer transportation 24 hours a day. Don’t worry, the hotel still has several adult only areas.

K3 Youth Hostel- Located on Costera Miguel Aleman Ave, one of the most famous and visited streets in the world, this youth hostel is great for young travelers who are looking for night life fun! The hostel is in the center of Acapulco near Condesa beach where all the night life happens. Offering free breakfast and inexpensive transportation, this hostel is perfect for travelers on a tight budget.

End on the island of Cozumel:

Villas Las Anclas- Voted travelers choice in 2009, this clean and quiet oasis is located just a few miles from the busy downtown. The staff is excellent and the location is great for divers.

Casita de Mayo- Dan, the owner, is reviewed as being one of the best hosts in Cozumel. The individual attention, due to the hotel’s small size, is perfect for those looking for restaurant recommendations, personal tours, and general help getting around and doing things in Cozumel. This clean hotel’s rooms all open up to the pool. The location is perfect for those looking to get away from the bustle of the downtown Cozumel.

Villa Anna Maria- Just 10 minutes from downtown, this quiet and almost hidden villa is perfect for those who enjoy diving. The owners of this hostel offer to take guests on diving trips. All the rooms have private bathrooms and guests can rent bicycles on site. If you are looking for an inexpensive, quiet place to stay and enjoy diving, this is the place for you!

Hopefully these suggestions point you in the right direction to start your research. It is important to know what you are looking for ahead of time to reduce research time and keep you focused. Planning a trip is time consuming so cut corners where you can. Exploration of what the country has to offer can help you meet your expectations and enhance your trip. Buena Suerte!