After traveling to Mexico multiple times a year you pick up on a few things that make life so much easier!
So, before you head out on your next trip to this beautiful country check these things off your list!
Top 10 Tips for Travel
Always pack a pen! There will be forms on the plane you need to fill out and due to Covid, airlines will not loan pens out.
Pack your swimsuit in your carry on. If you get to the resort and your room isn’t ready, you can change in the lobby restroom and start enjoying the pool!
Pack a mask! Most of the resorts do not make you wear them, however, they are required in the airports and on the planes.
Do NOT throw the slip of paper away that you are given upon entering Mexico. This will be handed to you right after the immigration officer stamps your passport. You will need this when you go to leave the country. If you lose it, you will have to pay a fee.
Pre-arrange your airport transfer before you head to Mexico. Your travel advisor will more than likely have taken care of this for you. If not, I highly recommend Lomas Travel. I travel to Mexico alone often, and I always feel completely safe with Lomas.
Register with your Embassy! It’s not required, but it’s a great idea to let your Embassy know where you’ll be. If you’re an American you can do this for free with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program).
Bring cash (small bills) to use for tips! For Mexico, I never recommend exchanging USD to Pesos, I just find it a hassle that isn’t worth it. As far as tips go, they are based on what you feel comfortable with. I always tip the bell boy and the daily cleaning staff. I bring money to tip the driver of our transfer. I typically find a waiter or the bartender (where I intend on being all day) and tip at least $10 for the day. Usually when you do this up front they keep your drink full! For the servers at my meal, I leave $3-$5. When I go for a spa service I generally tip at least $10-$15. If you have a local host or butler, I tip them on the upward side of $20-$30 depending on what all they have taken care of for me during my stay. All together, I generally bring at least $150 total all in $1, $5 and $10 dollar bills.
Do NOT drink the tap water! If you’re visiting a resort, the ice and water you are provided while eating is filtered and safe.
Make sure to check the dress code for the restaurants at your resort. Some dinner options require the men to wear long pants and closed-toed shoes.
Do not forget to pack a portable charger, sunscreen, mosquito spray, headphones, a great book, conditioner (some resorts do not have this for guests), and Dramamine (or some form of anti-nausea medicine).