When you’re visiting Mexico, you’ll discover that use of credit and debit cards is widespread here —payments using smartphones remains quite limited— and although Mexicans are increasingly using plastic cards, consumers continue to make extensive use of cash.

At least half of Mexican households still don’t have a bank account and rely entirely on the country’s cash-based economy for their trades.  Online banking is gradually being taken up, but there still remains a cultural preference for cash, underlined by a Bank of Mexico study revealing that a significant majority of Mexicans with debit cards use them simply to withdraw their wages in cash from ATMs.  Cash thus remains a widely employed, and oftentimes preferred, form of payment in Mexico.

To underline the continuing importance of cash in the local economy, major online brands including Amazon, Apple, Google, and Uber offer cash-payment options to customers in Mexico in addition to payment by card, either by direct payment in cash at a bank (or cash payment to the driver if using Uber), or by means of prepaid cards which can be purchased using cash and spent online.

Whether you’re visiting or staying in Mexico longer-term, you’ll soon discover that in practice there is a constant and continuous need for cash as you go about your days, and you might also find that making change is a continual pastime.

CASH & CASHLESS payment situations in Mexico

Here are situations where cash and cashless payments are commonly accepted in trades in Mexico.

Taxi cab fares

Some taxi firms in Mexico City will open an account for you and accept payment using a debit or credit card, although with the advent of App-Cab services like Uber and Didi, fares are billed to your credit or debit card anyway. App Cab companies in Mexico also offer the option to pay drivers using cash. Independent street taxis in the capital and local cabs operating in smaller towns and villages across the country will only accept cash.

Buying fuel for your vehicle

Not too long ago, gasoline and diesel purchases were a cash-only trade in Mexico; however, with recent modernization and the opening-up of Mexico’s oil and gas markets, most gasoline stations now take card payments. (Non-Mexican bank cards might be problematic, we have mixed reports, but the situation appears to be improving.)

Even with card payment options available, substantial numbers of people still pay with cash to fill the tank in their automobiles.  It’s wise to make sure you have some cash with you on a road trip across Mexico in case the service station you stop to refuel at doesn’t accept cards, or (more likely) their card payment system is off-line.

We also recommend that if you use plastic to pay for gasoline in Mexico, use a credit card instead of a debit card and don’t let the card out of your sight as gasoline stations are one of the places where ‘bank card skimmers’ are known to operate.

Tolled interstate highways

Since January 2019, payment booths on tolled highways across Mexico only accept cash or electronic toll-booth tags in the windscreen; debit and credit cards are no longer accepted.  Drivers who often use tolled roads will buy an electronic “tag” to place in their windshield which can be prepaid using cash, or linked to a credit card.

Mexico City’s tolled elevated beltway

If you plan to use Mexico City’s elevated beltway road (know as the Segundo Piso), you’ll need to purchase a windshield tag to access this road system.

You can prepay a balance to your tag, or link the tag to your credit card so that each time you access the elevated beltway your card is charged. The windshield tag can be prepaid using cash at participating stores, but cash and credit cards are not accepted at any of the gateway access points.

Situations in Mexico where CASHLESS payments are readily accepted

Payment by debit and credit card is becoming increasingly common across Mexico, and even some smaller (and market) traders are using portable card-payment devices to accept trade from people who don’t have any cash to pay with.

Modern shopping places

All major supermarkets and department stores, shopping mall stores, car dealerships, furniture and electrical goods stores, as well as eating out at most restaurants in bigger towns and cities.

Transport companies

Airlines, bus companies, and local travel agencies accept electronic payment.  If you have a Uber or Didi account in your home country, you can use those services here in Mexico: your fare will be calculated in Mexican pesos and converted/billed in your local currency and charged to the card you have linked to your App Cab account.

Smaller independent traders, and some market stalls

Some smaller independent traders, and even some market stall traders, especially those in tourist towns, are accepting card payments using smartphone apps which linked to their bank.  Some of these smaller traders charge a modest premium (3-5%) to cover the bank charges they have to pay to accept card payment.

Local mobile phone plans

Mobile phone companies in Mexico will allow you to top-up your prepay phone balance using a credit or debit card—online, or directly using your phone. You can also top-up your mobile phone using cash at convenience stores.

Professional services

Almost all professional service providers —e.g., hospitals, clinics, doctors, dentists, and lawyers— will accept electronic payment by card, but check in smaller towns where some professionals might only accept cash.  Those who don’t accept payment cards might accept an electronic bank transfer, instead.

Situations in Mexico where CASH is still required

There are still plenty of instances where you will need cash in Mexico, and these include:

Local stores, stalls, and markets

Most local independent (often family-run) convenience stores run on cash; some will accept payment by card with a minimum purchase amount and/or with the addition of a modest percentage to cover the payment card fees. Open-air markets; buying anything from ambulant vendors; shoe-shine stalls; street food; confectionery, newspapers or tobacco purveyed by street stalls; and buying anything in small shops and stalls in rural towns and villages will require the use of cash.

Independent street cabs

The majority of independent street cabs only accept cash. Some might have an app to take payment but card, but if they do, they will make surcharge to cover the bank fees.

Tipping for services

Cash is also essential for tipping in Mexico.  You should always tip in cash and only in Mexican pesos—our guide to tipping explains why.  If you visit Mexico on a tour package and spend your entire stay at a resort, then you may not have a call to use much cash (although take note above about tips); but most visitors discover that at least a few occasions arise where the use of physical cash is an absolute necessity.

Vacation souvenirs and trinkets

When touring, cash is essential to get around on local transport, and to buy local souvenirs or anything from street traders or stores ‘off the beaten track’.  Some market traders are beginning to accept card payments using a smartphone app but most only accept cash, and those that accept cards prefer cash to avoid the fees the bank charges them to take an electronic payment.  Some small traders make a surcharge (usually 3-5%) if you pay using a card, to cover their bank fees; alternatively, they may offer a discount if you pay using cash.

Archaeology sites and museums

Except for the country’s more popular archaeology sites and museums, payment for entry is only accepted in cash.  INAH, the institute that manages the country’s archaeology centers and museums, has been rolling-out electronic payment options at the larger and most visited centers and museums and in due course all centers are likely to take electronic payment for entry; but for now, be sure to carry some cash with you in case the center you visit doesn’t take payment by debit or credit card.  If you hire a local guide at the center, they will require payment in cash, even if the site or museum accepts payment by credit/debit card.

Home services and trades

Paying your domestic help (e.g. maid, gardener, pool maintenance) is mostly a cash business; some accept bank transfers, most don’t. Some home trades people —for example, plumbers, electricians, and carpenters— will accept cashless payments for larger jobs in the form of a money transfer to a local bank account, but the majority of routine or smaller jobs, especially ad-hoc work like fixing a leaking tap, are strictly on cash terms.

Learn about money and banknotes in Mexico

Mexperience offers you a wealth of information about Mexico’s money, banking services, and banknotes.

• Articles about Mexico’s banknotes
• Latest articles about Money and finance in Mexico
• Download our free eBook about Money and Banking Services in Mexico
• Download our free eBook about the Cost of Living in Mexico

Mexico’s tipping culture is impromptu and often spontaneous.  Tipping is always optional although the people serving you will appreciate the small token of your appreciation in exchange for good service.

Frequent tipping is a routine that takes getting used to, especially if you come from a place where tipping is not commonplace, or where tipping is practiced but only in certain, specific circumstances.

Common situations where tipping is practiced

In Mexico, la propina is employed in all kinds of everyday situations. Here are some examples, followed by a link to our guide that gives a more comprehensive list of situations where you should consider tipping:

Eating and drinking out

Waiters working at restaurants and bars should always be tipped for good service; a sum equivalent to 10-15% of the total bill is appropriate.

Taxi drivers

Local cabbies and App Cab drivers (e.g. Uber, Cabify, Didi) appreciate a tip. Consider rounding-up the fare on the meter from a street cab to the nearest $5 or $10 pesos; app-cab apps now allow you to add a tip at the end of your journey, or you can pay the driver a tip in cash.

Hotel stays

When you stay at a hotel in Mexico it’s customary in Mexico to leave a tip for your hotel room chambermaid, a sum between US$1 and US$5 (equivalent in Mexican pesos), for each night’s stay spent at the hotel. If you’re staying more than one night, it’s a good idea to leave the tip daily as chamber maids work on a rota.

Car parking and valets

Car parks in Mexico’s bigger towns and cities are oftentimes kept under vigil by men (and occasionally women) who ‘patrol’ the car park, helping drivers to find a free space, keeping an eye on the cars, and helping drivers to reverse out when they leave.   It’s optional, but customary, to pay $2-$5 pesos as you depart.  If your car is attended by a valet service, a small tip of $10-20 pesos to the valet attendant, commensurate with the class of the establishment, is expected.

Home deliveries

When you have goods or services delivered to your home, it’s customary to tip the service providers.  Examples include: gas deliveries, water bottle deliveries, supermarket deliveries, postal and courier services (e.g. Amazon, Mercado Libre). $10-$20 pesos is sufficient.

Other situations

Other ‘informal’ situations where a tip is customary include the porter at the hotel who carried your bags; the concierge for booking a table at a local restaurant or who arranged a taxi for you; the person who washed your windscreen at the stop-light; the attendant at a gasoline station; the person (usually a student or retiree) packing your groceries at the local supermarket; and attendants keeping washrooms/restrooms clean (provided you did not pay to enter the facility.)

Learn more by reading our guide to Tipping and Bargaining in Mexico for guidance about who, where, when, and how much to tip in Mexico.

A footnote about small change

Ironically, despite the constant need to pay tips small change can sometimes be difficult to get hold of in Mexico when you need it most, and appears in abundance when you don’t need any.  It’s good practice to build-up a cache of small change as you shop. If you’re staying at a hotel or resort, the front desk can break larger notes into small bills and coins for you: the $20 peso bill is popular for tipping at hotel resorts.

Tipping in a variety of situations

The practice of tipping goes far beyond the restaurant table here. As our guide to tipping etiquette explains, there are many situations in Mexico where a small tip is appropriate, and keeping change on-hand, in the form of small denomination coins, is essential for this purpose when you are visiting or living in the country.

Key situations where a tip may be appropriate

There are three situations which are worth a particular mention as they are often overlooked by visitors and residents new to Mexican culture:

Chamber maids

The first relates to the unsung heroines (they are invariably women) of the hotel industry: chamber maids.   They will often travel a considerable distance to reach your hotel and spend the day cleaning and keeping guest rooms in good order, so that when you get back to your room, it’s waiting for you clean, fresh, and tidy.

It’s appropriate to leave a small tip and leave it each day because work schedules change, and the maid who cleaned your room initially may not be on duty the day you check-out.

The amount of the tip should vary depending upon the category of hotel: a sum in Mexican pesos, left in cash on the side table (next to the maid’s greeting card if one is present), equivalent to between US$1 (for economy hotels) and US$5 (for luxury hotels) per day is suggested and will be sincerely appreciated.

Supermarket bag packers and car park helpers

The second situation concerns students and retired folks working at supermarkets across the country to pack bags at the checkout counters. For students, the money they earn contributes to the funding of their education; for retired folks, the money they earn supplements their pension.

When you roll your shopping cart of out the store into the car park you might notice some people waiting and offering to help you.  They will take your cart to your car (or hail a local cab, if you need one) and load your shopping bags into the car’s trunk.  A small tip of $5-10 pesos is appropriate.

Bag packers and car park helpers are not salaried and work entirely on tips.

All-inclusive hotels and package tours

The third situation relates to “all inclusive” hotels and travel packages or tours.  A small few packages stipulate that ‘tips are included’ and in this case no further tipping is required.

However in most cases, guides, porters, the concierge, meal table waiting staff, and the chamber maids (see above) will appreciate a tip—even if, for example, the price of your meals (or just breakfast) is included in the room rate.

For local guides and tour leaders: a reasonable tip commensurate with the amount of time and knowledge they shared with you is appropriate.

For hotel and waiting staff: one US dollar (equivalent in Mexican pesos) per bag for porters; a 10% tip of the bill (or what the bill would likely have been if the plan was a-la-carte instead of all inclusive) left on the table after each meal or round of drinks at the bar; and a tip for the chamber maids (see above) will be very much valued.

Further insights on tipping culture

Mexperience offers more advice about local tipping etiquette:

• Latest articles about tipping in Mexico
• Read our guide to tipping in Mexico which contains a comprehensive list of situations and suggested amounts you may consider tipping in specific circumstances
• Learn more about local customs and traditions in Mexico

The constant pursuit to make change

¿No tiene cambio? —haven’t you got change?— is an expression you will soon get used to hearing whether it’s in offering up a 50-peso note for a 30-peso cab ride, or a 100-peso note for a 20-peso coffee.  And it’s not only at street stalls, outdoor markets, or in taxis.  The “no change” response is as frequent at convenience stores and other local shops, restaurants—and even occasionally at the supermarket checkout.

With a large informal economy, most of the country’s daily transactions are paid for in cash.  But even in the formal economy, cash is the preferred method of payment.  Bankers estimate that of all the transactions conducted with debit cards, nearly 90% are to withdraw cash from ATMs.

Although debit card use is becoming increasingly more common, many people here still prefer using cash, even at gasoline filling stations—which, by the way, are among the best places to get change if you’re stuck with nothing but a 500-peso note (that can be as frustrating as having no cash at all).

You’ll come to find that small change is essential in Mexico: for tipping, for small purchases from local independent traders (even when they have change they will not be pleased if you pay for a 10-peso purchase with a 100-peso banknote), and even to break larger notes for others (friends, family) who may need change at any given moment.

The game of ‘change tug’ between buyers and sellers

With so much currency around, it’s a wonder people can be so reluctant to give change.  Some have change, but don’t want to break a large bill for fear it will leave them without change.  One infuriating twist: people with notes in the cash register will, at times, hand you all your change in coins.

One of the reasons why change is hard to come by with small local stores and local markets early in the day is that these traders often don’t begin with a ‘cash float’—they are relying on their customers to furnish them with their float as their trading day progresses.  Ambulant street traders work in similar fashion.

Random bill combinations at ATMs

ATMs sometimes dispense a range of smaller notes, and sometimes they dispense only large bills.  It can be inconvenient when you withdraw $2,000 pesos and the machine dispenses it all to you in $500-peso bills.

The distribution of banknote values that are dispensed to you will depend on how the machine is programmed, how much you request, and what denominations are available in its bill cartridges at the moment when you make your withdrawal.

Ideal places to make change

You can take large bills to any retail bank and ask for change, and by law you don’t have to be a customer of the bank to request change from them—but this is time consuming as lines tend to be long, especially on paydays, and it just isn’t convenient to do each time you need change.

Other good places to “make change” if you find yourself with a wallet full of large bills include gasoline stations, ticket kiosks at bus terminals (especially during busy weekends), and busy central markets in larger towns and cities.

When you’re traveling on tolled interstate highways, note that the toll booths only accept payment via windshield ‘tag’ devices and cash—and thus toll booth cashiers are good places to make change from those 500-peso bills the ATM dispensed to you.

If you’re staying at a large hotel resort, the front desk will usually break a larger note for you to use as tips; $20 peso bills are a popular choice.  Indeed, the $20 peso bill (and coin) is possibly the most versatile banknote for use in small trades

Learn about money and banknotes in Mexico

Mexperience offers you a wealth of information about Mexico’s money, banking services, and banknotes.

• Articles about Mexico’s banknotes
• Latest articles about Money and finance in Mexico
• Download our free eBook about Money and Banking Services in Mexico
• Download our free eBook about the Cost of Living in Mexico

From foot runners to horses

In Spanish, the word for post is correo, from the verb correr, meaning to run. It’s a direct reference to the original ‘message runners’ (corredores) which preceded the formalized postal service.

Postal services are not new to Mexico. During Aztec times, the main pathways and roads connecting different locations had small towers placed alongside them, set apart every ten kilometers (six miles) or so.  With these in place, relay runners would carry written messages —as well as other items— using the towers as relay and distribution stations. Legend has it that Emperor Moctezuma ate fresh fish, caught daily off the shores of Veracruz, by means of this ‘relay delivery’ system.

When Hernán Cortés brought horses from Europe to Mexico during the colonial era, horseback riders replaced runners as a means to carry the messages and goods between the main towns and cities across the country.

Postal services and postage stamps

In 1813, Mexico established its first formal postal service, which delivered regular messages between Mexico City and the provinces each month. In 1824, Mexico’s Treasury Department took over the postal system and this led to the issuance of Mexico’s first postage stamp, that featured the ‘father’ of Mexico’s revolution, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.

Further developments of the Mexican postal service took place during the reign of Maximilian, which included the installation of post boxes in urban areas. In 1910, Porfirio Diaz ordered the construction of the country’s main post office, the Palacio de Correos, a grand building that remains in operation to this day in the downtown historic district of Mexico City. By this time, trains were also being used to ferry messages and goods around the country.

Modern postal services and courier deliveries

Today, the use of railways has all but vanished and road and air transport systems are used as the means to deliver post and parcels over long distances. However, the ‘last mile’ of delivery continues to be undertaken by an army of dedicated post men —and increasingly, women, although in Mexico this remains a male-dominated job— on foot, cycle and most often, motorcycle.

The rise of all things internet and specifically, email, brought about a precipitous decline in ‘regular post’—letters, post cards, and other written correspondence that was delivered almost daily by postal workers has been largely replaced by electronic equivalents.

More recently, the popularity of online shopping in Mexico has created a parallel ‘postal’ service comprising a small army of couriers delivering packages and goods, and these also serve as deliverers and collectors, picking-up items from customers’ homes when they decide to return goods for a replacement or a refund.

The two big international companies, DHL and FedEx, have extensive operations here and there are also several national companies, the leading one is Estafeta.  Mexico’s national postal system also has a courier division, and Amazon Mexico also runs its own delivery service network in some of Mexico’s bigger towns and cities as well as contracting private third parties to courier its packages around the country.

Remembering your postal and courier delivery services

Dia del Cartero was first established in Mexico on November 12, 1931, and in 1947 the post office printed its first special stamp commemorating the work and efforts of the nation’s postal delivery men, labeling it “Anonymous Hero.”

Showing your appreciation with a tip

If you live in Mexico and regularly get post through the regular mail, it’s customary to give your local post man or woman a gift—usually a small cash tip on this day, or more likely during the month of November on day when you receive post or see your delivery person on your street.

In some localities, the postmen drop a small printed envelope through letterboxes reminding people of the date and into which a small cash tip can be placed and returned. (Leave the tipped envelope slightly protruding from your letter box, on the outside.)  The amount is discretionary; $50 pesos would be fine, and double that amount if you regularly receive ‘snail mail’ post in Mexico. This token of appreciation is an important cultural protocol as well as making a contribution to the people who serve your local community.

Tipping couriers

In these days of online shopping, many deliveries are now made by couriers instead of the traditional postal service.  You might consider paying an occasional small tip the courier for each delivery, or if the couriers that service your neighborhood become known to you as regular delivery people, you can tip them in November, and/or alternatively around Christmas time.

Learn about communications in Mexico

Mexperience publishes a series of articles keeping in touch in Mexico, using postal services, couriers and electronically.

• Guide to communications in Mexico
• Cost of utilities and communications in Mexico
• Telephony Services in Mexico
• WiFi and Internet services in Mexico
• Directory of couriers and telephony companies in Mexico

Business Hours and Public Holidays in Mexico

Business Hours

Shops: Shopping hours in big towns and cities start at around 10 or 11 a.m., and continue through to between 8 and 10 p.m. Shops in cities and big towns are open seven days a week; smaller places may close on Sundays, except tourist spots at high season. Christmas and Easter public holidays are observed; on other public holidays you’ll find most places open in cities and bigger towns and tourist spots. Smaller towns will have more limited opening hours, and in hotter, non-tourist regions, stores may close between 2 and 4 p.m.; check locally.

Banks: Bank branches in Mexico are now generally open from 9 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m. in many cities and big towns, and some even open Saturday mornings. HSBC, for example, now opens from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. six days a week in large towns and cities. For more information about managing your money in Mexico, connect to the Money in Mexico section here on Mexperience.

Office Hours: Commercial Office hours tend to run in line with those of the US: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lunch breaks usually last an hour, but business lunches can go on much longer. Connect to the Business Section here on Mexperience for full details about business practices in Mexico.

Churches: Some churches remain open all the time; others are locked if there is no service going on, especially those hosting valuable art or artifacts. If you visit a church, be mindful of those inside who may be taking part in a church service.

Museums: Museums tend to have specific opening hours, and those outside of the major tourist areas usually close for a day in the week (often, but not always, on Mondays), so it’s best to check opening times beforehand if you plan to visit a specific museum.  A quick look online will reveal opening times.

Archaeology Parks: Archaeology parks are open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and all except those in the most frequented tourist areas (e.g. Chichen Itza in Yucatan) are closed on Mondays.

Public Holidays in Mexico

Mexico celebrates a number of public holidays throughout the year. You can learn more about the dates, holidays and events surrounding them on our guide to Public Holidays in Mexico.

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Video and Photography in Mexico

Printing Digital Photos in Mexico

If you would like to print your digital photos while in Mexico, you can visit the photo department inside major supermarkets (e.g. Wal-Mart). There are also independent photography shops—especially common in small towns where there are no major shops—where you can edit/print your digital photos, purchase additional memory chips for your digital camera, buy batteries and accessories and purchase a new camera or video equipment (note that photographic equipment is more expensive in Mexico than it is in the USA).  Film and videotape for non digital cameras are becoming obsolescent, but may still be available in some specialist photographic stores in larger towns and cities.

Video and Photography Etiquette in Mexico

Museums: Some museums and all major archaeology parks will make a small charge if want to take a handheld video recorder into the museum or site with you; some make a charge for cameras, although this is rare. Some will not allow flash photography, especially on ancient stonework and murals as it affects the longevity of the work. You’ll see notices written in Spanish and English that will advise you at each location.

Tripods: The use of tripods at all archaeological sites and some museums requires a permit. If you want to use a tripod you will need to apply for special permission from INAH (the government department that manages archaeological sites and some museums) and there will be a significant fee and plenty of paperwork involved. If you are outside Mexico, contact your local Mexican Consulate for information and details. Sites and museums which don’t allow tripods offer a “package hold” facility for people carrying tripods, where they can be left until you leave the site or museum. Use of tripods elsewhere (public spaces, beaches, towns, etc.) is permitted.

Etiquette: Be mindful of people you photograph and, if possible, ask their permission first – especially in small provincial communities and in the State of Chiapas, and particularly in and around San Cristobal de las Casas. A small few places (mostly small rural towns and villages) have restrictions on photography, and signs will be posted to advise you in such cases.

Military and Navy Installations: It’s best not to photograph the army or any military installations to avoid any misunderstandings.

Churches: Taking pictures inside a church when there is a service going on is considered disrespectful, so you should refrain from doing it. Taking pictures inside a church at other times is acceptable in Mexico.

Filming Professionally in Mexico

If you are planning to travel to Mexico to film or take photographs professionally (including research, cultural, artistic and educational programs), you will need to apply for a temporary filming permit. Contact your local Mexican Consulate for details.

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Drinking Alcohol in Mexico

Legal Drinking Age in Mexico

The legal minimum drinking age in Mexico is 18 years; three years before the USA’s legal drinking age, which is why a lot of older American teenagers ‘fly south’ to Mexico for a weekend or longer.

Although it has been rare in the past, requests for proof of age or identification when asking for an alcoholic beverage in Mexico are on the rise. Local authorities are also beginning to make spot-checks on establishments which sell alcohol, with officers approaching drinkers at the bars who look under age and asking for identification. However, Mexico is nowhere near as strict as the USA, where anyone who looks underage is immediately asked for identification before being served.

The Effect of Altitude

Many places in the interior of Mexico are situated at altitude (for example, Mexico City, Guadalajara and most colonial cities) and at high altitudes, alcohol will have more effect on you than if you were drinking at, or close to, sea level. See Blog: Breathing Easy at High Altitudes

Alcohol Licensing Laws in Mexico

Most Mexican states allow stores, restaurants, and bars to sell alcohol 24 hours a day. However, some state restrictions do apply; for example in the northern state of Sonora, that borders the U.S. state of Arizona, establishments cannot sell alcohol between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. Mon-Sat, and on Sundays, they cannot sell alcohol from 3 p.m. until 7 a.m. the following Monday.

Drinking on the Street in Mexico

Technically, it is illegal to drink on the street in Mexico, but some people do, especially in tourist areas. If you want to drink a cold beer while walking down a street on a hot day, go ahead; but don’t be stupid and get drunk on the street: it will call attention to yourself, and you may end up having to deal with the police who, in such a circumstance may apply the letter of the law to your behavior.

Drinking and Driving in Mexico

Drinking and driving is a serious crime in Mexico. If you drink, take a cab: taxis are very affordable in Mexico, there is absolutely no need to take your car if you are drinking.

Drinking and driving is still more common in Mexico than it is in places like the USA and Canada and so, if you’re driving at night, or if you are a pedestrian near a tourist area with lots of bars, be extra vigilant of cars and traffic, especially in the early hours of the morning, when drunk drivers may be about.

Mexico has been stepping up its campaign against drunk-drivers in recent years, with structured programs where rolling road-blocks are set-up in areas where there are many bars and restaurants and on occasions when people are known to drink more (e.g. public holidays and Christmas).  New laws have enacted stiff penalties (including the prospect of prison sentences) for offenders. In Mexico City, for example, the police are now regularly setting up roadside breath tests on routes leading to and from popular night spots across the capital.

See Blog: Getting Consular Assistance in Mexico

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Newspapers and Magazines in Mexico

English Language Media

The only English daily print newspaper in Mexico is “The News”, which was re-launched in 2007 after an absence of several years, the result of its parent Mexican paper Novedades being closed. “The News” is widely available in Mexico City and is also distributed to tourist destinations and other cities across the country; especially cities with significant expat populations, e.g. San Miguel de Allende, Chapala/Ajijic.

Some magazine kiosks at Mexican airports and a few specialized stores in the capital and some other larger cities sell U.S., British or European print newspapers, some of which can be a day or two old.

English-language ‘global’ news magazines such as Time, Newsweek, People, etc. are available in their U.S. editions in cities and large towns across Mexico. The British based magazine ‘Economist’ is now available at larger news stands in the big cities and at Mexican airports.

Newspapers and magazines can be bought on street corner stalls. Many supermarkets are now beginning to stock newspapers and magazines too; but not all of them.  Sanborns Stores stock a very generous selection of magazines, some of which are in English.

Spanish Language Newspapers and Magazines in Mexico

Mexico has a wide selection of Spanish language newspapers from all sides of the political spectrum.  Click on the names in green to view the online versions; all are currently subscription-free except Reforma.

El Universal – One of Mexico’s biggest daily papers, news online does not require subscription, in Spanish

Milenio – A popular daily newspaper with a strong online following.

El Economista – Financial/Business Press, in Spanish

El Financiero – Financial/Business Press, in Spanish

Reforma – Mexico’s biggest daily, in Spanish (subscription required)

Latin Trade – Online version in English of the popular magazine that is dedicated to trade in Latin America

Magazines in Mexico

Popular Spanish language magazines include:

Proceso – A weekly publication with informed commentary and opinion about Mexican and Latin American politics

Mexico Desconocido – A travel magazine with lots of photos, dedicated to highlighting travel and tourism in Mexico

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Traveling to Mexico with Children

Take your family to Mexico with confidence. Read the comprehensive guide about Traveling to Mexico with Children for detailed information about making the most of your family time in Mexico.

Lone Parents and Minors Traveling to Mexico

The rules for minors (people under the age of 18) and lone parents* traveling with their children to Mexico have changed. See the Link to the guide above for full details.

*Lone parents includes single parents, and parents who are traveling with their children and without their spouse or partner.

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Tipping and Bargaining in Mexico

See Blog: Mexico’s Tipping Culture

See Also: Social Etiquette in Mexico

Tipping in Mexico

Tipping is common in the United States: it is almost second-nature and practiced frequently at most service establishments. In many European countries, it is not so common or customary to tip people for services.

Most people working in Mexico’s tourism and service sectors rely on your tips to supplement their basic pay and they give good service to prove that it makes a significant difference to them.

When you are traveling in Mexico, always keep some loose change in your pocket because you never know when you’re going to need some of it for a tip.

Some hotels and tours indicate that “all tips are included in the price”; if this is the case, fair enough, and there is no need to tip further. You may still wish to leave a small tip for the maids at the rooms you stay in, or offer the tour guide a small tip at the end of the program.

Although tips are frequent in Mexico, the amounts are relatively small, and they really can make a difference to the person whom you are tipping.

If you did not get poor service, you should consider tipping in these situations:

Restaurants – 10% – 15% is normal, depending on the class of establishment and level of service you received. At diners and similar places 10% is sufficient; at higher-end restaurants and bistros, 15% is expected for good service.

Hotels – Bellboys should be paid around US$1 per bag; Concierge around US$2 equivalent if they do something for you (e.g. book a table at a local restaurant); more if they undertake some particular research (e.g. found you a local tour operator, car rental agency, or chauffeur). If you don’t speak Spanish, remember that they will also be acting as translators for you and you should take this into account with your tip.

Hotel Chamber Maids – The unsung heroines (they are invariably women) of the hotel industry: chamber maids.   They will often travel a considerable distance to reach your hotel and spend the day cleaning and keeping guest rooms in good order, so that when you get back to your room, it’s waiting for you clean, fresh, and tidy.  It’s appropriate to leave a small tip and leave it each day because work schedules change, and the maid who cleaned your room initially may not be on duty the day you check-out.  The amount of the tip should vary depending upon the category of hotel: a sum in Mexican pesos, left in cash on the side table (next to the maid’s greeting card if one is present), equivalent to between US$1 (for economy hotels) and US$5 (for luxury hotels) per day is suggested and will be sincerely appreciated.

All-Inclusive Hotels: A small few packages stipulate that ‘tips are included’ and in this case no further tipping is required.  However in most cases, guides, porters, the concierge, table staff, and the chamber maids (see above) will appreciate a tip—even if, for example, the price of your meals (or just breakfast) is included in the room rate. For local guides, a reasonable tip commensurate with the amount of time and knowledge they shared with you is appropriate.  One US dollar (equivalent in Mexican pesos) per bag for porters; a dollar or two left on the table after each meal or round of drinks at the bar; and a tip for the chamber maids (see above) will be very much valued.

Gasoline Service Stations – If you rent a car and buy fuel, 3-5% of the cost of the fuel is normal, with 5-10% of the cost of the fuel if the attendant provides additional services (water, oil, tire pressure, etc). It’s usual to leave a few pesos tip within a rounded amount; for example, if you are filling up with $200 pesos of fuel, then you may tell the attendant that you want $190 or $195 pesos of fuel; you hand over the $200 peso bill and the attendant keeps the change. Read related guide to Driving in Mexico. You’ll need to ask for the additional services if you want them.

Car Valets – If you drive to a bar or restaurant and have your car parked by the establishment’s valet service, you should tip the attendant around US$1 equivalent in pesos when you leave, unless the valet has a pre-advertised rate (probably higher than this) in which case, pay that rate and no more.

Porters – When you arrive at a bus station, airport or hotel there will usually be a group of porters nearby waiting to take your bags. US$1 per bag in pesos equivalent is sufficient; perhaps a little more if the bags are over-sized, particularly heavy or if the attendant offers some additional value, for example, some local advice or directions.

Home deliveries – When you have goods or services delivered to your home, it’s customary to tip the service providers.  Examples include: gas deliveries, water bottle deliveries, supermarket deliveries, postal and courier services (e.g. Amazon, Mercado Libre). $10-$20 pesos is sufficient.

Bus Station Baggage Handlers/Caddies: If you placed baggage in the hold on a long bus journey, you might consider tipping the baggage handler with a coin ($5-$10 pesos is sufficient) when he checks your reclaim voucher and hauls the bag from the baggage compartment.  Although most people have baggage with wheels these days, sometimes if you have several bags you might call upon the help of a caddie: most (but not all) stations have a team of caddies using wheeled dollies to carry baggage from the bus-stop platforms to the taxi cab ranks. There is no set fee, although around $1 US dollar per bag, equivalent in Mexican pesos, and a bit more if the bags are over-sized, is sufficient.

Bus Station Taxi Rank Attendants – If you carried your own bags to the official taxi booth at the bus station, you may find that there is an assistant waiting nearby there who will offer to carry your bags once you have purchased your taxi ticket. You don’t have to allow this person to help you, but if you do, you may find it more efficient getting the next taxi from the rank. See Traveling by Bus in Mexico for more details. $10 pesos is sufficient. See Traveling by Bus in Mexico.

Taxis – If you take a cab from the street, it’s appreciated if you round up the meter charge to nearest $5 or $10 pesos depending on the comfort and speed of your journey; however, taxis hired from taxi ranks at hotels or official taxi ranks should be paid the advertised rate (or the rate you agree in advance) and no more. Also read the guide about Traveling by Taxi in Mexico which includes a link to current taxi prices in Mexico.

Bars and Cantinas – Tables at these are often attended (you don’t need to go to the bar to order food or drink) – and a tip of 10% of the value of your spending that evening is normal.

Supermarket Bag Packers: Students and retired folks work at supermarkets across the country to pack bags at the supermarket checkout counters. For students, the money they earn contributes to the funding of their education; for retired folks, the money they earn supplements their pension.  These people are not salaried and work entirely on tips.

Car Park Attendants – Some car parks will have an “attendant”; a man or woman dressed up in a security-type uniform, who may direct you to a free spot, and see you reverse out when you return. These attendants are often older men who also keep an eye on things while you’re away. $3-$5 pesos is sufficient; a little more if they help you load your shopping bags into your car.

Spas – For personal services at Resort Spas, 10-15% of the value of the service (e.g. a Massage) is normal. If you’re staying at a Destination Spa, you can tip good service personally, 5-10% of the service’s ‘stand alone’ value is fine; or you can add a tip to your final bill, to cover everyone—even the ‘behind the scenes’ people: 10-15% of the bill is sufficient. For more information about Spas, read our guides to Spas in Mexico.

Toilets / Restrooms – Some public toilets now make a small charge for entry, and you’ll find these are usually reasonably clean and tidy. If one of these is not available, go to a restaurant, bar (even if you’re not eating or drinking at it) or department store if there’s one nearby. You may well find an attendant there who is looking after the place, making sure it’s clean tidy; some may hand you a paper towel to dry your hands. Near the wash-basins, you may see a small wooden box, sometimes with a piece of cloth inside (and usually a coin or three on it). $5 pesos tip, double that if it’s an upscale establishment, is sufficient.

Stop-Light Entertainers – In Mexico City particularly (but not exclusively) you may find that one or more informal entertainers begin to perform a short skit. The ‘performance’ may include juggling, eating fire, miming, etc. After the performance is over, the people walk between the stationary cars in search of a small tip. Tipping is at your discretion.

Stop-Light Windscreen Wash – Some people will “wash” your vehicle’s windscreen, sometimes whether you want their service or not! Tipping is at your discretion.

Angeles Verdes – Meaning “Green Angels”, these are trucks that are painted green and travel along Mexico’s interstate highways helping people who have broken down. Their help is free, but they will charge you for parts and fuel if your car needs it. Be sure to tip the attendant; the amount is discretionary and should relate to how much help they were in a particular circumstance (e.g. more at night) and on how much work they have done for you. Read more about Traveling by Road in Mexico with Mexperience.

Bargaining in Mexico

People who visit Mexico rate shopping at the local markets as one of the most rewarding travel experiences they encounter.

Mexican traders enjoy bargaining, but beware: if they feel you are trying to devalue their goods too much, they will become upset and may even refuse to trade with you.

Bargaining is a common activity in Mexico, especially at markets and artifact stores and handicraft workshops.

As a rule, you should refuse the first price you’re offered, but be realistic with your subsequent offers, and don’t become too aggressive with your position.

Speaking Spanish – If you speak Spanish (even broken Spanish) you stand a much better chance of getting a better a deal on your purchases. This another good reason to Learn Spanish in preparation for your next visit to Mexico.

Markets and Street Traders – Mexican market traders are usually polite people who enjoy a good trade negotiation but, equally, they may become offended if you are too obstinate and will simply cease bargaining with you completely. Keep in mind that the people selling arts, crafts, and artifacts are generally humble artisans making a simple living and often supporting a family. Some may also be the creators of the wares they are offering for sale, so any deep devaluation of their work might be taken personally, too.

Department Stores, Malls – Department stores and shops in retail centers and shopping malls will not bargain with you.

Taxis – Some taxis are not metered (especially in small provincial towns) so negotiate your price before you get in. Also read the guide about Traveling by Taxi in Mexico which includes a link to current taxi prices in Mexico.

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LGBT in Mexico

Tolerance of sexual diversity is improving in Mexico’s three big cities and some cosmopolitan provincial towns, although Mexican society’s typically conservative social attitudes means that tolerance in Mexico of people who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender remains measurably lower than in places like the USA, Canada, Europe, and Australia. In certain Mexican indigenous cultures — for example, the Zapotecs and Mayas — sexual diversity has been widely tolerated for some time.

The legal rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people in Mexico have been evolving in recent years, in line with international movements towards decriminalizing and respecting people’s sexual orientation. Same-sex relationships in Mexico were decriminalized in 1871, although individuals who were caught were prosecuted under lewd-behavior laws throughout much of the 20th Century.

In recent years, significant legal advances have been made in favor of sexual diversity. A significant amendment to the Federal Constitution in 2011 now prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and, in 2015, Mexico’s Supreme Court ruled to change the legal definition of marriage to encompass same-sex couples. As a result, an increasing number of States and Municipalities will now perform same-sex marriages, including Mexico City, Jalisco (Puerto Vallarta), and Quintana Roo (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum) and Guerrero (Acapulco).

Places in Mexico known to be gay-friendly and with active/growing LGBT communities are: Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Mexico City, Acapulco, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana, and Puebla.

See Also: Getting Married in Mexico

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Drinking Water

When you’re traveling in Mexico, you must take extra care when drinking water, or fresh beverages that may have tap water added to them. Also check the ice—ask if it was made with tap water especially in more rustic establishments and rural areas. Salads can also be dangerous if they have been rinsed with tap water; so again, the rule is: if in doubt, ask first! All main hotels and good restaurants use purified water throughout.

All commercially produced beverages, including bottled and tinned water, fizzy drinks, wine, beer, spirits, etc will be perfectly safe for you to drink.

To make tap water safe, boil it for at least a few minutes; perhaps longer in locations situated at higher altitudes as the water boils at lower temperatures there. Water purification tablets and drops are available, but these generally have an adverse affect on the water’s taste. Another option is sterilizing pens that use ultra-violet light to purify, but don’t change the taste of the water.

See Blog: Drinking Water in Mexico

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Electricity

Mexico’s electricity system is the same as that of the USA: 120 V; 60 Hz. Any electrical equipment you carry with you that operates at the higher (240v) rate will need to be dual-voltage (e.g. hair driers). A lot of electrical equipment (like video cameras, digital cameras, laptops) that operate on low voltages via a product-specific adapter will happily cope with dual voltage—check the adapter and the device instructions to be sure.

Electricity Sockets in Mexico: You might need a socket adapter.  Plugs in Mexico are the same as in the US; two flat prongs; and some have a third, circular prong for earth, and small adapters can be sought locally for these too if the plug you want to connect into doesn’t have the third (earth) prong socket.  If you are coming to Mexico from a country that uses a different socket type, e.g. the UK or Europe, you will need to bring electricity socket adapters with you.  People visiting from the U.S.A. do not need to bring socket adapters as the plug fittings in Mexico are identical to those in the U.S.A.

Blog Article: When the lights go out

See Also: House Maintenance in Mexico

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Embassy and Consulate Information

What can your consulate in Mexico do for you?

Foreign consulates in Mexico can usually help with administrative tasks like replacing a lost or stolen passport, provide you with a list of lawyers if you get into legal trouble, (and let your family back home know you’re in trouble), liaise with Mexico’s foreign office to make sure that you are being properly treated if you’ve been arrested and, in exceptional circumstances, provide you with a publicly funded loan to pay for repatriation home if you become completely stuck (you will need to pay the loan back).

Foreign consulates and embassies cannot get you out of trouble. When you are in Mexico, you are bound by its laws and customs and subject to its legal penalties if you fall shy of the law, intentionally or otherwise.

See Blog: Obtaining Consular Assistance

Directory of Consulates & Embassies:

Directory of Foreign Consulates in Mexico

Directory of Mexican Consulates Abroad

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Time Zones in Mexico and Clock Changes

Time Zones in Mexico

Mexico had three time zones, until February 1, 2015, when the country created a fourth time zone in the state of Quintana Roo (home to the country’s most popular vacation resort towns).

From north-east to south-east the four time zones are:

Clock / Time Changes in Mexico

In 1996, Mexico decided to change its clocks in the fall and spring of each year. Before this time, clocks were never changed in Mexico.

Although Mexico’s Central Time zone moves its clocks, other time zones or States in Mexico don’t—or move them at different times.  Also, the dates on which Mexican clock-time changes may not be synchronized with those of the USA & Canada and Europe, so check this year’s clock-time change date schedules in the spring and the fall for precise date information about when clock-time will be altered.

See Blog: When Night Doesn’t Fall

Mexico’s State of Sonora does not observe DST Protocol

An exception to the clock change is Mexico’s northern state of Sonora, which borders the US State of Arizona, which is one of the few US states which do not move its clocks at any time of year to allow for DST; because of this, Sonora does not moves its clocks, either.

Mexico’s State of Quintana Roo not observing DST 2015-2019

The state of Quintana Roo, which includes popular cities including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Chetumal will not be observing DST between 2015-2019. As with the state of Sonora, it will not move its clocks in these years.

Baja California Peninsula Clock-time Changes

Note that the state of Baja California Sur usually makes clock-time changes on the same dates as the Mexican mainland; however the state of Baja California (northern peninsula) may synchronize its clock-time changes on the same date as California in the USA.

Jet Lag

Travelers arriving in Mexico from the east (e.g. from Europe) do not generally experience severe jet lag as they have gained time traveling west. Returning from Mexico and traveling east (e.g. to Europe) can be tiring, as time is lost traveling east.

Read this Related Article in the travel health guide here on Mexperience for tips and advice about how to minimize the impact of Jet Lag when you travel to and from Mexico.

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Modern Spas in Mexico offer a wealth and variety of services that will help you to re-establish a sense of balance and well-being, helping you to feel refreshed and revived…

Spas in Mexico

A spa is place to go when you want to get away from your normal life routine and experience an environment and treatments that will help your body and mind to unwind and feel revitalized.

There are different types of spa, which will be discussed in more detail later in this guide. Whichever kind of spa you choose, they will all have a common goal: to help you re-balance yourself, revitalize your mind and body and to give you a sense of wellness.

Consider a spa experience if you want a different kind of vacation in Mexico, or if you want part of your vacation to include a time for relaxing, reflection or revitalization.

A vacation that focuses exclusively on engaging with spa services is different from a traditional one: the usual excesses which accompany a “fancy free” get-away are often put aside, especially at Destination Spas, which are dedicated to providing a positive health experience for guests.

At spas which are part of a fine hotel or resort, you may combine a traditional vacation with some spa experiences and treatments. This arrangement may be ideal if you are traveling with your family or members in a group who want to enjoy different activities as part of their vacation.

Mexican spas offer a wealth and variety of services that can help you to regain a sense of calm and wellness and re-establish a sense of balance in your life.

For example, you may want a total relaxation experience, or you may want the exhilaration of participating in sports to get or stay fit. The type of spa you choose will depend on what kind of experience you are looking for: the next section will help you to better understand the different types of spas, and the possibilities they offer…

Destination and Resort-Hotel Spas

There are two kinds of spa in Mexico: Destination Spas and Resort-Hotel Spas. This section explains the difference between the two types:

Destination Spas

These are spas which have been created to provide spa services and nothing else. They are often located in quiet, serene areas. Some accept children, others have minimum age limits, e.g. 13 years, 18 years, etc. Destination Spas sometimes specialize in a particular area; for example:

Holistic – Focus on an experience that will harmonize the mind, body and spirit. Activities such as meditation, yoga and acupuncture will be common.

Weight Loss – Some centers focus on exercise, aerobics, diet and nutrition

Sports – Some spas will provide facilities to play particular sports (e.g. Golf course, Tennis courts) and focus on services that facilitate the development of your skills and body muscles to enable you to participate in these better.

Some centers provide a choice, and you can elect one, or none of these and just choose to relax and be pampered for your stay or visit.

Destination Spas are residential – They provide all of your accommodation and food, which can be prepared by top chefs whose aim is to provide a well-balanced diet for your needs.

Some destination spas are quiet and relaxed; others have parties at night and are quite energetic places; you can choose what kind you’d like to go to; there’s something to suit everyone!

Advantages – Enables you to get away from it all; all your needs are catered for, and its hassle-free. You don’t have to worry about anything: your accommodation is provided, three meals a day are prepared and served to you, and you will get to experience a complete change from your normal routine. The best practitioners are often based at these centers, and you will receive a more focused approach to the health spa concept.

Disadvantages – The main disadvantage, perhaps, is that you or your partner or family may not want an all-engaging spa experience and want to just sit on a beach, or take part in some other vacation activity some of time as well. In these cases, a Resort Spa will be a better option for you.

Resort-Hotel Spas

Resort Spas are based at vacation resorts, or fine hotels. Instead of being an all-encompassing spa experience of the type offered by Destination Spas, the Resort-Hotel spas are just one segment of the facilities the resort or the hotel offers: in effect, the spa is a walk-in center that you choose to engage with as part of your stay, or avoid altogether.

The services and facilities offered at resort spas will vary depending on the individual location.

In recent years, good quality hotels have invested millions of dollars creating spa-centers inside their resorts and fine hotels. The quality of many of these centers is extremely high, offering a wide range of spa services (including many of the services traditionally offered only by destination spas) diligently delivered by professional staffed, trained to take proper care of spa guests.

The resort spas advertise the services they offer, so you’ll know beforehand what to expect. Universally, all tend to offer pools, steam and sauna rooms, massage, beauty treatments, facials and a gym. More specialist services, in particular those around holistic therapies (yoga, meditation, acupuncture, aromatherapy, etc.) may only be available at more up-scale resorts, or those which have these services included as a unique service proposition for clients.

Advantages – Because they are part of a resort, the services they offer may be bought on a “per use” basis, so you only pay for what you’ll use (although most Destination Spas offer this a-la-carte option, too, in addition to fixed-price packages).

Resort Spas tend to work out less expensive than Destination Spas. Your accommodation will have already been provided as part of your hotel or resort accommodation, and your food will be provided by the hotel/resort hotels, or elsewhere locally if you choose.

You may also elect to have a “Spa Experience” for a couple of days, a whole week, or not at all. If your partner and/or family don’t want to participate, they don’t have to and can still enjoy a great vacation using the the resort’s other services and facilities. If you don’t want a spa experience, they can participate— it’s flexible.

Disadvantages – You are unlikely to get a totally focused Spa Experience at a Resort Spa; although as mentioned earlier, in recent years the range and quality of services being delivered at resort spas has increased exponentially, as a direct result of significant new investments by the resort-hotels.

The practitioners at some of the lower budget resort spas may not be as experienced as those working in the Destination Spas, and some Spas may lack some the more specialist services such as yoga, meditation and alternative therapies.

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Types of Resort-Hotel Spa in Mexico

Spas situated at resorts and hotels can be sub-divided into different types, depending on the type of hotel and the hotel’s location.

We’ve categorized Resort Spas into four different types, to help you browse and choose a spa experience to suit your needs and personal preferences:

Oceanside Resort-Hotel Spas

Oceanside resort spas are located at hotel resorts situated in Mexican towns and cities alongside the ocean; usually the Pacific or the Mexican Caribbean. These spas offer ocean views, some offer water sports and, where practical, these spas offer services on the beach (e.g. massage).

Colonial Spas

Colonial Spas are those situated at fine hotels located in or on the outskirts of one of Mexico’s beautiful colonial cities. These hotels offer their spa services amidst grand historic settings—the old properties these hotels now inhabit. Some colonial spas are situated in colonial-style hotels out in the country, a few miles from the closest town, surrounded by nature.

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Services Provided by Spas in Mexico

Different spas will provide different selections of services. Some are more comprehensive than others.

Most spas offer a ‘universal’ basic set of services that will include a pool, whirlpool, steam and sauna rooms, gym, massage and beauty care—much alike a good quality health or country club.

Listed below, are the types of services you can expect to find at spas in Mexico. The Mexperience Directory will indicate which of these services are provided for the spas that have elected to have their detailed descriptions listed on Mexperience.

Universal Services Offered at Most Spas

• Swimming Pool
• Gymnasium
• Whirlpool
• Sauna
• Steam Room
• Basic Massage
• Basic Beauty Care (e.g. Hairdressing, Manicure)

Additional Facilities

• Resistance Swimming Pool
• Aerobic Exercise Machines
• Multiple Massage Techniques
• Comprehensive Beauty Care
• Natural Hot Springs
• Mud Baths / Mud Wraps
• Seaweed Wraps

Holistic Spa Services

• Meditation
• Yoga
• Stress Release / Management
• Tai Chi

Alternative Therapies at Spas

• Aromatherapy
• Reflexology
• Herbal Therapies
• Acupuncture
• Acupressure
• Water Therapies

Specialist Spa Services

• Lifestyle Counseling (Note: You may need to speak Spanish for this kind of service!)
• Nutritional Programs

Professional Staff Working at Spas

• Very well trained Masseurs
• Experienced Practitioners of Alternative Therapies
• Chiropractors (very limited No. offer these)
• Nutritionists (limited No. offer these)

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How to Choose a Spa in Mexico

When considering what kind of spa to choose in Mexico, it will help you to keep in mind the following four factors:

1. Focus

How focused do you want your spa experience to be? Do you want to to focus solely on spa-based activities, perhaps linked with a sport (e.g. Golf, Hiking) or do you want to see other things, and enjoy a resort holiday as well? If you want focus, choose a Destination Spa, if you want a mix (or your partner and family want to do other things), choose a Resort-type Spa.

2. Environment

What kind of environment do you want? Do you want to achieve a specific goal (e.g. lose weight, undertake a specific activity like yoga or golf, get fit, improve your diet, relax, de-stress, etc), or are you looking for a mix of things? Will children be traveling with you, and if they are, what age restrictions apply (if any)? Do you want a relaxed and serene experience, or do you you want a center that is more lively, vibrant and energetic? Choose a spa that will provide you with the type of environment you’re seeking.

3. Activities

Do you have specific treatments in mind, or a specific sport or activity you want to take part in? Spiritual spas that offer healing, meditation, Yoga and Tai-Chi are extremely popular, and are some of the most sought after spas by clients. Perhaps you feel you want to experience the benefits of acupuncture after a friend of yours told you about it. You may need to choose your spa based on your specific requirements, if they are not part of the services generally commonly provided.

4. Cost

How much can you afford to spend? Most spas offer all-inclusive package prices that provide specific activities or schedules for a set price over a number of nights and provide you with great value for money; some charge extra for niche services, should you want them. Prices for budget destination spas can be very low—as low as a moderate hotel room. Luxury spas can cost considerably more. Generally speaking, the more you pay, the more you get in terms of facilities provided, level of service (ratio of guests to staff will be lower at more expensive spas) and more experienced staff. If your budget is very tight, you may get better value from a Resort spa, although see “Focus”, above.

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Benefits of a Spa Experience in Mexico

The benefits offered by spas may be grouped into four main areas which are summarized below.

Although benefits may be more strongly felt at the more focused Destination Spas than at the Resort Spas, in recent years some Resort Spas have really raised their game and the best ones can be nearly as focused as a Destination Spa.

1. Mind

Spas are great mind stimulants and mind relaxants. People who walk away from a spa experience feel more at ease in their own mind, less stressed, and better prepared intellectually and emotionally for the return to their daily lives.

2. Body

A spa experience will help to cleanse your body, and if its at a comprehensive center, it will include a healthy, balanced diet as well. Sports, fitness exercise, hot natural spa mineral waters, massage, alternative therapies, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and a range of other services and facilities are all designed to help your body recover from the stresses and wear that our everyday lives put upon it.

3. Spirit

By combining the services and ambience of the spa, to stimulate the mind and cleanse the body, people who take part in a spa experience report that they feel they experience a stronger spiritual sense than they had when they first arrived.

4. Balance and Rejuvenation

A spa experience is about leaving your daily grind behind you and making a choice to create a positive impact on your whole self. The spa facilities, services and staff will help you to unwind, relieve any anxieties and stress you may be carrying, help you to cleanse your body, stimulate your mind and provide balance and equilibrium to your lifestyle. When the time comes to leave the spa, you should feel rejuvenated and carry with you a sense of relaxation and confidence that will help you to approach your daily life back home in a more assertive and progressive way.

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Length of Stay at a Mexican Spa

The length of your stay at a spa will depend on your personal goals, the time available to you, and your budget.

People who know spas and return regularly to enjoy the benefits of attending a spa in Mexico, tend to reserve a ‘block’ of time to spend there—even if it’s at a Resort Spa—to ensure focus and continuity and to get the maximum benefit from the services and facilities on offer.

If you’re going to go to a Destination Spa, it’s probably best to stay a minimum of three nights.

Three and four-night packages are usually the shortest time available, although six-nights and longer are also available. With a three-night spa package, you could sandwich in a Mexican spa experience between other activities while you’re in Mexico—even perhaps, if you’re traveling to Mexico for business.

If you’re attending a Resort Spa, you may want to commit a set number of days to your spa experience as part of your vacation.

Some people choose to take two or three weeks out at a Destination Spa, if they want to become totally immersed, or perhaps after a particularly busy and/or stressful period in their life situation.

Most Destination Spas offer worthwhile discounts for those staying a month or more. Spa fanatics, who have the resources and time, may stay for between six and eight weeks, but they are usually people who know the spa, have been there before, and who are working to accomplish specific goals.

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Price of Spas in Mexico

Prices for spas vary, and they are usually in direct proportion to the facilities on offer, the level of service and the experience of the staff.

See Also: Tipping Etiquette at Spas

Budget Price Spas

Budget Spas cost from around US$90 per person, per night (may include breakfast). This will include basic (but clean and comfortable) accommodation.   Facilities are likely to be limited in some areas, and staff may not be as experienced as those in the more expensive spas.

Moderate Price Spas

Moderate Spas cost from around US$150 per person per night (including some meals) and is likely to include comfortable accommodation, good facilities (some specialist facilities may be lacking) and experienced staff.

Luxury Spas

Luxury Spas cost from US$200 per person, per night, and will have top accommodation, high levels of service (the ratio of guests to staff will be low) excellent facilities, specialist services and the most experienced staff. This price level may not include meals, which is often prepared on site by gourmet chef, although some package deals are available where food is included. Luxury Spas which are most likely to provide specialist services not available elsewhere, although some moderately priced Spas may offer these too—check if you’re looking for something in particular.

A Note About Specialized Services at Spas

Specialized or unique services are usually charged as extras to the prices quoted above. The staff at the more expensive spas are oftentimes more highly experienced.

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