Arriving to Mexico can be a unique experience with many different faces, colors, smells and encounters. Be prepared to be welcomed by smiling faces and warm, friendly people throughout most of the country. The capital, known as Mexico D.F. (Distrito Federal or Federal District) may be one of the most varied places throughout the country where you can live the extremes of eating late night tacos from the back of a pick-up truck after partying at a posh nightclub where the Mexico City socialites go out to rub elbows with the rich and famous.
Throughout the country you will find beautifully preserved colonial towns with cobblestone streets reminiscent of Mexico’s rich colonial era. A majority of the country’s most important historical events occurred in the central highland cities of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende and Queretaro. While other colonial cities such as Oaxaca, San Cristobal de las Casas and Merida boast an eclectic mix of modern sophistication, colonial architecture and a rich indigenous presence represented by local street markets filled with colorful “artesanias” handcrafted by women and men from villages and tribes of different Mayan descent.
Mexico’s rich history falls back on its vast indigenous cultures with traditions stemming from the Aztecs, Mayas, Zapotecs, Toltecs, Olmecs, Huicholes and many other native groups. Today there are a total of 68 national languages (apart from Spanish) recognized by the Mexican government and an estimated 10 – 15% of the population belonging to indigenous groups. This vibrant cultural heritage can be seen clearly and abundantly throughout the country. If you listen closely you will notice the different dialects being spoken in small villages as you pass through the local marketplaces.
Mexico boast some of the most famous and spectacular archaeological sites in Meso-america as the Maya were one of the last remaining civilizations in the region. Visit the pyramids of Teotihuacan, Monte Alban, Palenque, Bonampak, Yaxchilan, Uxmal, Chichen Itza and Tulum and let yourself be amazed at the sophistication of these ancient civilizations.
Natural wonders abound in Mexico from the vast stretching deserts of the northern highlands to the Pacific, Atlantic and Caribbean coastlines to the steamy jungles of Chiapas. You will never cease to be amazed by a limestone waterfall, white-sand beach, verdant canyons and abundant wildlife found throughout the country.
Get ready for the spicy, mouth-watering cuisines you have been dying to taste from the time you started planning your trip. Fresh guacamole, steaming hot tamales, bursting enchiladas and pollo con mole are only a few of the tasty treats you’ll come across. Learn a few words of Spanish so you can order your first deliciously authentic Mexican meal in the native language.
Cost of a Beer = 2 USD Cost of a Basic Meal = 3 USD
Budget per Day in USD
(Accommodation):
Cost of a Hostel Dorm = 10 USD Cost of a Hostel Private Room = 30 USD Cost of a 3-Star Hotel = 50 USD
Visa Requirements:
Citizens of most nationalities will receive a visa upon arrival to the country for approximately $25 USD. If you fly into any International Airport this will be included in your plane ticket, however if you are entering the country at a land border you will need to purchase one upon arrival. Mexican Embassy in UK
Visa HQ*Please contact the Embassy nearest you as requirements may change at anytime without prior notice. This is always the best way to find out current visa requirements as they often vary depending on your nationality.
