Frequently Asked Questions About Mexico

What kind of documents are required?

The Government of Mexico requires that all visitors present proof of citizenship and photo identification for entry into Mexico. A passport is recommended, but other citizenship documents such as a certified birth certificate, a Naturalization Certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Citizenship are acceptable. Driver's permits, voter registration cards or credit cards are not sufficient.

Will I get sick from the food and water?

Mexico has made great improvements over the years. The major resort areas are very aware of the importance of providing a healthy environment for their many world-wide visitors. As David Simmonds, editor of The Mexico File and long-time Mexico traveler has stated “it has been literally years since I have gotten sick in Mexico, and I eat in all kinds of places”.

Isn't Mexico just a big desert?

Mexico is the world's eighth largest country and one of its most diverse. With over 6,000 miles of beaches the country contains lush rainforests, snow-capped mountains, desert canyons, woodlands and tropical savannahs with temperatures from frigid to searing. There are six major mountain ranges divided by plateaus, plains and basins, with a variety of cultures and diversity in evidence. The beaches are as beautiful as any in the world.

How about crime?

Like any country, the major cities have more crime than the rest of the country. The Mexican government is very aware of the importance of tourism (second only to oil for the economy) and many Americans report feeling much safer in towns like Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, San Miguel de Allende than they do back home. Tens of thousands of expatriate Americans now call Mexico home, feeling very safe in their environment.

How about the Golf?

Mexico has asserted itself as one of the premier golf destinations in the world. Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Acapulco, and Mazatlan are all home to world class golf and resort facilities. Robert Trent Jones Jr., Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino and other prominent course designers have all made their mark in Mexico, and the Vista Vallarta courses in Puerto Vallarta will host the 2002 World Match Play Championships in December.

What is the best time to visit?

In most of mainland Mexico the rainy season is June through September. And even though it might rain nearly every day, it is usually in the late afternoon. The newer courses have been designed to drain well so that morning conditions are fine. The landscape is lush and green during the rainy season and some people prefer it to any other time.The Cabo area of Baja is dry, but quite hot, in these same months. Again, morning tee times are recommended. Northern Baja is a good alternative for the summer months. October through May are ideal months to avoid excessive heat and rain.

How much bang for my buck can I expect, and should I carry American dollars?

Mexico compares very favorably with Hawaii and overseas destinations. And being right next door, you can find very good flight rates all year. You can easily find a good, authentic meal with drinks in Mexico for $10.00 or less. You can use American Dollars in many tourist areas in Mexico, but we recommend changing to pesos to fully appreciate the culture and Mexico experience. ATM's are everywhere and dispense pesos to you at a very favorable rate.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

No, not at all. The tourist areas are quite accustomed to communicating in English, although it is fun to dust off the high school Spanish and is appreciated by the Mexican people.