| Where to stay |
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The constant increase in numbers of visitors to Mexico has been matched by a growth in variety of accommodations available. Room prices are not regulated anymore by the state, and hotels are classified into categories ranging from one star to five stars, plus a Grand Tourism category which is very luxurious. Mexico has plenty of old convents, mansions, and haciendas that have been converted into extraordinary hotels. Many have been declared national monuments and feature original furniture and decor. Other than hotels, you can find apartments, hostels and casas de huespedes (family-run guest houses). Remember that hostels and casas de huespedes, may not conform to the standards that you might expect in Europe or US. -Booking and paying It is advisable to book rooms in advance if you are traveling during high season. This includes July and August, and the days around Christmas, Easter and other public holidays. Traveler's checks are accepted in most hotels, and many will change or accept foreign currency. If a deposit is required you can pay by credit card and ask for a confirmation. Hotels that depend on business travelers often have reduced rates for long stays and weekends. The normal 15% IVA tax is supplemented with a 2% lodging tax. Check out time is usually around noon. |
Transportation |
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Mexico is a huge country, and although internal travel is not always as fast as visitors might hope, the transport system is increasingly easy to use. There are airports within reach of all the major cities in Mexico. Privatization of the railroad system has drastically reduced train travel, since most passenger services have been cut. However, there is an extensive bus network reaching even tiny villages. Buses are the best and most economical way of traveling around the regions of Mexico on public transportation. Although second-class buses can provide a bone-rattling experience, the first class and specially luxury services are extremely comfortable and compete favorably with domestic airlines. The local bus, is the cheapest way to get around the provincial towns of Mexico. Taxis can be summoned by phone in most towns, or by flagging one down on the street. Driving offers the most flexibility in terms of speed and accessibility, but road conditions are not always the best. So here are some tips that may help you if you are planning to drive to explore Mexico. Always use your seat belt. Drive with the doors locked and the windows rolled up. Try to plan your trip in advance. Take a good road map with you. Mexicans drive on the right-hand side of the road, and distances measured in kilometers rather than miles. Most traffic regulations and warnings are represented by internationally recognized symbols and signs, but some signs are unique to Mexico. There are three main kinds of highway: Four-lane (super carreteras): Are expensive but fast, these are the most advisable. Toll (de cuota): These are not as expensive as four-lane, and are fairly safe; tolls are charged according to distance and the number of axles on the vehicle. Two-lane (libre): Are often very busy with local traffic, trucks and second class buses, so they are not the ideal choice for long-distance. There are often speed bumps that can be very high and are not always marked. Avoid driving at night. Slow down and take extreme care when approaching villages and intersections. |
Practical information |
