I Will Travel To Mexico… Soon

Why would anyone not want to go to Mexico? It has beaches, it has art, it has historical sites, it has great food, the people are fun, and the list goes on and on and on. I’ve long been planning a visit to our neighbors to the south, and several travel shows, travel books, and reading about traveling to Mexico all this time, I think I have figured out my itinerary.

I’m going to be alone and it’s going to be my first time there so I know I’m bound to go to some known tourist destinations. I don’t mind this at all. And besides, I want to somehow “discover” the country. It’s going to be like The Amazing Race minus the stress of racing. Get ready, because this is gonna be grand (at least in my head it is).

Since I’m gonna be landing in Mexico City, my first days will be spent exploring the city on foot, eating authentic, authentic, authentic Mexican food, people watch at their enormous plazas, and visit the Catedral Metropolitana (the largest church in Latin America). I also want to see the Templo Mayor, which is a remnant of Aztec architecture right smack in the middle of the city. And of course I have to go to the Frida Kahlo museum. I have to admit I primarily wanted to go to Mexico for that.

Next stop on my itinerary is Oaxaca. Ah, Oaxaca. I once watched a feature on the state and it featured Oaxaca’s finest product: Chocolate! All the more reason to travel to Mexico, right? I’d want to go to a chocolate tour, eat mole perhaps, then settle down and enjoy the laidback vibe, the architecture, maybe do a bit of shopping if I hadn’t already done so back in the big city. And then go back and have another hot chocolate. I can feel it. Oaxaca’s gonna be divine.

After spending my first days exploring decidedly urban places (well, Oaxaca can’t really be described as urban but they have a lot of people so you get what I mean?) I think it would be time to head to the beach now. The beach is where I’m going to spend the few days I have left on the country and will probably take over my budget because I booked myself on a 3-day, 2 night stay in Puerto Vallarta. I really meant to end my travel to Mexico big time and by the time those 3 days are over, I’ll probably be itching to start my vacation again.

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Touring the Jungles of Mexico

Touring the Mexican Jungle

 There are an almost unlimited number of activities while you’re vacationing in Mexico.  There are the pristine beaches with their aquatic activities, there are the resorts with their spas, pools and restaurants there is shopping for inexpensive jewelry – and then there are some of the lesser known activities.  For instance, touring the jungles of Mexico.  To many who prefer these kinds of adventures, this sounds more adventurous and fun.

Mexican jungle tours are a well-kept secret however there has been an increase in popularity due to the adventurous aspect.  One of the reasons that jungle tours have been gaining in popularity is that they have now become accessible by ATV.

The density of most Mexican jungle terrain makes it impossible to tour by bus or car.  Hiking and biking in a jungle is often too dangerous.  Therefore, with the increased popularity of ATVs (all terrain vehicles) this is an ideal way to take a fun and exciting jungle tour. 

Although ATV rentals are available, if you’re interested in a jungle tour, it’s important to schedule through a tour guide or company.  The professional tour guides know where to look and what exciting things to show you and they also know how to keep you safe.  You can find ATV jungle tours through your hotel concierge, through your travel agent or even research on the internet.

While researching ATV jungle tours, it is likely that you will come up with a number of tour companies.  When selecting a tour guide, it is advised that you determine the location of each tour and then compare it to your intended Mexico destination.  ATV jungle tour guides are popular, but they can only be found in limited areas.  If you are interested in scheduling an ATV jungle tour, you may have to be prepared to travel to the intended tour site.

While Mexican jungle tours on ATVs are popular, they aren’t the only tours that you can take while on vacation.  You can also rent an ATV and ride along the coast.  But prior to anything make sure that you know whether reservations are required.  Research the tour company to make sure that their vehicles are well maintained.  The internet is a great place to start and, in fact, many companies offer such incentives as discounts for booking over the internet and also a “flex” reservation which allows you to decide when you’re on your vacation, the day that you’d like to go.  This is great in the case of inclement weather.

You should also look at tour packages that allow you to schedule multiple activities, such as hiking, fishing and ATV tour all in one package for one price.

Shopping In Mexico: Traveler’s Tips

Shopping in Mexico: Tips for Travelers 

 A vacation in Mexico can be a wonderful experience, filled with wonderful scenery, resorts and beaches.  But Mexico is also known for wonderful bargains and terrific shopping experience – and tourists love to take advantage of the many deals that are available in Mexico.

While shopping in Mexico can be a wonderful experience, it’s important to realize that there are strictly enforced rules regarding what can and can’t be brought back into the U.S.  Prior to purchasing items in Mexico, you should review the U.S. Customs and Border Protection rules; they will alert you as far as what you can and can’t bring home with you.

Endangered species.  Endangered animals are not allowed to be purchased and brought into the United States. Many products that are available in Mexico are illegal when brought across the border.  The Customs and Border Patrol is very strict about this – and if caught you might not just have your items confiscated, but also fined and possibly jailed.  Stay away from wild animals that are for sale. 

In addition to live animals, stay away from products made from animals that are considered endangered.  One of those animals on the endangered species is crocodile.  While you might enjoy a crocodile purse or pair of boots, avoid the temptation.  The U.S. government is very strict and they take the violations seriously.  The customs patrol makes routine inspections looking for endangered animals and you don’t want to endanger yourself.

Another thing to avoid are the colorful and exotic Mexican Birds, such a parrots.  While it may seem like a great idea, purchasing birds in from Mexico is illegal.  In fact, even stuffed birds are against the last. It’s just probably best if you avoid any kind of wildlife and purchase other souvenirs that are legal and much less hassle.

Another thing that tourists to Mexico have discovered are the Mexican antiques and glazed ceramics.  While it may be tempting to being home an antique from Mexico, the Mexican government considers their antiquities to be government property – so if they discover you trying to bring them out of the country, they can prosecute you for theft and you might face a stiff fine or even prison.  It’s best to just leave any antiques where you found them.

Another area that many people are unaware of are ceramics purchased in Mexico.  While glazed ceramics are bright, colorful and beautiful and maybe look great in your home, many of the ceramics you purchase in Mexico may be made with lead.  So, although it is legal to bring ceramics back across the border, consider avoiding the purchase of glazed ceramics – or make sure everyone in your house is aware of the potential danger that your ceramics pose.  The other possibility is to purchase a small home lead test and test any ceramics prior to purchasing them.  That way you can know that you are purchasing something that’s safe.

While it may seem as if there are things that you can’t purchase, if you look around you’ll find that there are many more things that you can.  Just remember to follow a few simple rules and regulations and stay on the safe side.  That way your Mexican vacation will be an enjoyable and memorable one.

Mexico Vacation Packages

Sun, sea and nightlife is the perfect combination for most people and Mexico can offer all this and more. Mexico vacation packages are a convenient and affordable way of visiting the country. Many reputable companies are in this market and people are taking the opportunity of a vacation with friendly people and a fascinating history and culture.

One of the destinations catered for by Mexico Travel Net is Acapulco. Immortalized in song, this resort has been a playground for a long time and tourists enjoy the pristine beaches, water sports, golf and tennis facilities. Mexico vacation packages to this spot have more than 300 hotels to choose from. Acapulco Bay is one of the best places for nightlife, restaurants and shopping. Puerto Marques is a scenic bay surrounded by mountains. The Diamante Area is a beautiful tropical lagoon and many luxury hotels are sited here.

The James Travel Points company offers a range of all-inclusive resorts in their Mexico vacation package options. Cancun is one of the favorite destinations for Americans and flights go there from 20 US cities. The resort is favored because of its white sand beaches, clear waters, nightclubs that stay open until dawn, and first class amenities. Snorkeling and scuba diving is one of the main activities here and enthusiasts head for Palancar Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world. This modern resort is also close to Mayan ruins at Coba and Itza.

Discounts on hotels and flights are available from 4 Mexico Vacations. A selection of resorts are serviced by the company and it also offers specialist Mexico vacation packages dealing in cruises, sport fishing and golf resorts. La Paz has something for everyone with its desert landscape and fishing opportunities. Visitors can dive, snorkel or go whale watching. The handicraft market is ideal for shopping for souvenirs and gifts and there is a 1720-built cathedral and a Museum of Anthropology. This travel company also arranges packages for Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa and Mayan Ruin Tours and Copper Canyon Tours.

Sun Mex Vacations specializes in the Los Cabos area, which includes the towns of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. It’s popular with golfers and there are championship golf courses to choose from. There are the usual first class beaches, dining and nightlife. Glass Bottom Boat Tours, Snorkel Tours and Whale Watching Tours are amongst the best in Mexico. Tourists on this Mexico vacation package can also visit a blown glass factory or watch the sunset on a cruise of San Lucas Bay.

Safety Tips while vacationing in Mexico

When planning a vacation in Mexico you need to consider a some important factors, not the least of which is safety.  A Mexican vacation is fun but there are also dangers so you need to know how to protect yourself.

One of the first things you should do prior to vacationing is to register with the United States Travel Registry.  This is an agency that few people know about but it alerts the government to the fact that you are leaving the country.  By registering with the USTR, if you become a crime victim, you can immediately receive government assistance.  It’s easy to do – just use the internet to register and leave a detailed itinerary of your plans.

Leave your travel plans with several people – close friends, family, co-workers or neighbors.  Also make copies of your passport, airline tickets, insurance cards etc.  Take a copy with you, leave a copy home and also leave copies with an emergency contact.  This way, if you need help, you can receive assistance if you need it.

When you’ve arrived in Mexico, make sure you use common sense.  Always take a taxi cab that you’ve previously arranged for at your hotel.  Don’t just wave down a taxi on the street.  Crimes have been reported by people who have been robbed by unscrupulous taxi drivers.

Never carry large amounts of cash or extra credit cards.  Also, if you wear flashy clothes or jewelry, it’s an easy thing to single you out.  Always look out for people who appear to be ‘shady’.

No matter where you’re at, use caution – especially when traveling by bus or using other forms of public transportation.  Unless you absolutely have to, try to travel during the day only as nighttime can be more dangerous.  If you are traveling by bus, be aware and stay alert.  Make sure that if at all possible you don’t travel alone.

If the worst happens and you need assistance, contact the United States Embassy and also the Mexican Ministry of Tourism twenty-four hour hotline.  You can also contact the Mexican Red Cross who will help if you need medical assistance.

By taking precautions and being prepared prior to your Mexican vacation, you can prevent trouble occurring while in Mexico.

Top Rated All-Include Mexico Resorts

Over the past decade, Mexican vacations have gained in popularity throughout the world.  The increase in the amount of tourists has made stimulated Mexico’s economy and created a boost in the number of tourist ‘hotspots’ and resorts.  With the added economic packages, resorts are now catering to tourists of all financial standings – including all-inclusive vacation packages.

Every year more and more Mexican resorts develop all-inclusive packages and, for many tourists these packages save money and make their vacation affordable.  If you are interested in saving money and finding out about these packages, you might want to consider one of these all-inclusive, top rated  Mexican resorts.

Cancun –

If you are searching for an upscale hotel, ideal for business trips or romantic getaways, then the Moon Palace Resort might be the perfect option.  This all-inclusive resort is owned and run by Palace Resorts and they operate multiple resorts in Cancun.

The Moon Palace is open to both adults as well as children and offers a variety of onsite activities such as swimming and golfing, as well as other tourist entertainment.

The flexibility offered by the Moon Palace will appeal to families with children of all ages as well as business people and couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Also located in Cancun is the Secrets Excellence Riviera.

The Secrets Excellence Riviera is an all-inclusive resort with an adults only policy.  The coastal scenery at the Secrets Excellence along with the luxurious resort atmosphere has created an atmosphere of tranquility and romance.

Because the Secrets Excellence Riviera is located close to the beach, in addition to the pool and spa areas, there are a wide variety of beach activities that guests may choose from.  Popular options are swimming, SCUBA diving, boating, sun tanning, spas and snorkeling.  There are also elegant and romantic restaurants and bars, as well as active night life.

The Secrets Excellence Riviera Cancun provides a romantic atmosphere and may have everything that you need for your Mexico vacation.

The Mayan Riviera.

The Sunscape Tulum Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive resort in the Maya Riviera.  Many people believe this resort to be the most beautiful resort in Mexico and in addition to its beauty, the resort does not have limited hours – in fact, most onsite facilities are open 24 hours.

The views from the rooms at the Sunscape Tulum Riviera are exotic and in addition, the resort can be an ideal place for family vacations.  There isn’t an age limit and there are numerous ‘kid-friendly’ activities to be found nearby.

Also located in long the Maya Riviera is the Adventure Spa Palace Resort.  This resort is also all-inclusive and is an ideal resort for adults wishing to experience a romantic Mexican vacation.

The Adventure Spa Palace Resort requires that you must be at least 18 years old.  And for good reason as the atmosphere caters to adults.  All rooms have an ocean view and in room Jacuzzis.  This makes the Adventure Spa Palace a much sought after resort.

If you enjoy upscale dining, relaxing at the beach or one of the many activities such as snorkeling, then you’ll probably enjoy the Adventure Spa Palace.

Puerto Vallarta.

Located on the west coast in Puerto Vallarta Mexico, the Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa is an all-inclusive resort that is very popular with vacationers.  The Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa caters to both adults as well as children.  There are a large number of onsite activities such a restaurants, a spa, a fitness center as well as kid-friendly facilities.  The Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa is also located a short distance form the airport, which makes travel to and from extremely simple.

Of course, these 5 Mexican resorts are just a few that can be found in Mexico.  Each resort has its rules so prior to making your plans, research the resort so you can make an informed decision and enjoy your all-inclusive Mexican vacation.

Family Resorts in Mexico

Family vacations in Mexico can be great fun.  Although some Mexican cities are known for their partying, there are also many activities designed for families with teenagers and children.  There are also discounts available for children at popular tourist attractions as well as many resorts that offer all-inclusive vacation packages for the entire family.  This all-inclusive vacation is beneficial because you know all the upfront costs and don’t have to be concerned about additional costs.

Before booking your family vacation in Mexico, make sure that you research what attractions are geared toward families and children.  The activities offered make this an ideal family vacation.

Here are a few of the attractions and resorts that cater to families visiting Mexico.  Of course, this is just a start and you should research additional accommodations and attractions before you leave.  Also, take advantage of your travel agent or the internet to help find additional activities.

Cancun:

The Xcaret Theme Park, located on the Mayan Riviera is perfect for those searching for a family resort.  The Xcaret Theme Park is often compared to Disneyland and attendees can expect a fun filled day at the park.  The Xcaret has amazing rides and attractions.

One of the features at the Xcaret Theme Park is a deep underground river filled with beautiful tropical plants and wild and exotic animals.  There is also a butterfly pavilion and coral reef aquarium.  And for those who dream of swimming with dolphins, there’s that opportunity to do so too.

Cancun also offers additional family friendly resorts.  You can check the internet to locate others.

Cozumel.

Cozumel is another area that is ideal for a family vacation.  In addition to offering great attractions and activities designed for people of all ages, it boasts one of the lowest crime rates in not only Mexico, but in the world.

Cozumel is also known for some of the most beautiful coral reefs, which makes it an ideal place for SCUBA and skin diving as well as other aquatic activities.  Children love to snorkel in the shallow waters and adults love to SCUBA dive in the deeper areas.

Many families opt to choose an all-inclusive vacation in Mexico which can be a great idea.  The packages include all airfare and accommodations as well as meals, drinks and snacks.  Children can also learn about customs and cultures as well as viewing Mayan ruins.

There are also great family activities such as SCUBA diving, hiking, sailing, snorkeling, swimming, horseback riding and parasailing.

Each area offers additional attractions and sights so before you leave, make sure that you research the area to see what your Mexican vacation destination has to offer.

Budget Vacation in Mexico

If you are planning a budget vacation then one of the destinations you might want to consider is Mexico. In fact, a Mexican vacation could save you money through low cost airfare, inexpensive meals, discount hotels and travel.

Mexico has beautiful beaches and offers a rich culture as well as a variety of activities and of course, travel.

In fact, a Mexican vacation is so affordable that almost anyone can vacation south of the border.

The first way to plan a vacation is by looking into the airfare.  There are a number of different packages that you can look at and, if you use the internet, you’ll discover that there are many great deals available.  Check with your local travel agent to discover what packages are also available – these packages will include airfare and accommodations. A travel package can save you a lot of time and money, but make sure that you shop around and comparison who to find the best deals.

If you choose to book your flight and accommodations separately, then check to find out if there are hotels that offer discounts.  You can also consider camping, however a hotel is probably the best way to go.

If you are planning on visiting Mexico while on a budget, be aware that restaurants can be expensive, however by taking advantage of the street markets and “local” restaurants, you’ll find that you can dine inexpensively.

Another option is to shop in local grocery stores and prepare the food yourself.  Do be aware that you will need to take care in your food preparation – wash and peel all fruits and vegetable before eating them and handle all foods with caution.

Depending on where you are vacationing in Mexico, you can save money on transportation.  Buses in Mexico are very cheap and if you check in the area where you’re staying you can receive bus schedules, times and ticket costs.  If you are planning on taking a taxi, make sure that you only use one that’s been prearranged by the resort.

You also have the option of taking the bus (instead of flying) to Mexico.  Some buses such a Greyhound go straight into Mexico.  This can be an affordable option for you.

Planning a vacation to Mexico can be intimidating, however there is a lot of help available, from the internet to travel agents and even resorts themselves.  You can create a budget and stick with it, all the time enjoying a wonderful Mexican vacation.

Vacationing in Mexico

Each year thousands of tourists visit Mexico for a vacation. There are many reasons to consider a Mexican Vacation and why it is such a popular vacation destination spot.

Mexico has a rich heritage, history and culture in addition to the beaches and huge variety of activities.

But aside from the famous Mexican beaches, many people vacation in Mexico to discover the history and culture. For instance, in Mexico City there are many locations that offer educational experiences. Many families enjoy incorporating education into their family vacations and Mexico has a number of fantastic museums and other facilities to visit as well as historical landmarks.

Mexico City alone has numerous educational facilities and museums that cater specifically toward adults and children of all ages. (This information may also help your children in school.)

An understanding of the history and culture in Mexico is not the only reason to consider a vacation in Mexico. Mexican beaches also offer many exciting and fun activities including aquatic shows, ocean museums, deep sea fishing, SCUBA and skin diving and water skiing.

Vacationing in Mexico will also allow you and your family to spent quality time together. This is a huge benefit. Family schedules often don’t allow everyone to spend uninterrupted time together and a Mexican vacation can be fun, peaceful and entertaining.

Mexican family vacations can be a great getaway, however Mexico is also popular for couples. Romantic vacations are popular anyway, however a Mexico has added benefits and might be a perfect vacation for you and your partner.

In addition to Mexico’s beautiful beaches and resorts, the location is considered very romantic – especially because of the privacy that the area lends itself to. You will be able to spend time with your partner in a beautiful uncrowded location if you choose a private beach resort.

And if you’re on a budget, whether you’re with your family or just a romantic vacation, you will be pleasantly surprised. Many people believe that Mexico is out of their budget or too expensive, however that’s not true.

Although Mexico can be expensive, it doesn’t have to be. You can research (especially via internet) and find some great travel deals.

So as you can see, there are a lot of benefits to a Mexican vacation. So whether you choose a family vacation or a romantic vacation, you can find great deals and have a terrific get away.