LANGUAGE - Spanish is the official language although English is widely
understood. Mexican people welcome any attempt you make to speak their language.
ROADS - More and more divided highways are being built every day.
"Cuota" means its a toll road and "Libre" means no toll. Most of the
roads are in good condition, however, there is less shoulder and you may encounter a
few potholes here and there.
GAS - Unleaded gas (Magna Sin) is plentiful. Premium unleaded is
becoming more available, mostly in the larger cities. Leaded gas (Nova) has been phased
out. Diesel fuel is also available.
GREEN ANGELS - Green Angels are bilingual mechanics that patrol the
main highways and provide emergency road service and first aid. This is a free service
provided by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism.
SHOPPING - Mexico is one of the best countries in the world to
purchase hand-crafted items. Almost every town in central and southern Mexico specializes
in a particular craft. Everything from serapes, silver, baskets, ceramics, leather goods,
weavings, guitars. The list is endless.
ACCOMMODATIONS - Hotels come in every price range from the bare
necessities to the Gran Turismo luxury class. Hotels in the resort areas tend to fill to
capacity during the holidays and during the times of fiestas and festivals. If you are
going to a popular resort area you may want to make your reservations early.
FOOD & DRINK - Mexico’s cuisine is one of the greatest
pleasures when visiting this wonderful country. Lunch (comida) is the main meal of the
day. From the smallest out of the way restaurant to the fancy gourmet restaurant, most
take pride in the quality and freshness or their meals.
NEWSPAPERS - There are two daily English language newspapers. The
Mexico City Times and The News. They both have the latest U.S. and world news, sports,
editorials and the comics.
DOCUMENTS
- Proof of Citizenship - Everyone must have proof of citizenship: Birth
Certificate or Passport (Voter registration cards may be accepted) and picture ID. Even
children must have proof of citizenship.
- Car Permits - Vehicle Title or Registration. A valid driver's
license (with photo and same name as on Title), a credit card in the same name as on the
Title (Visa, Master Card, Diners or American Express). Discover cards and Debit cards are
not accepted. The fee for the permit is about $12 and must be charged on the credit card.
Checks or cash are not accepted for this fee. If your vehicle is financed, you must have a
notarized letter of permission from the leinholder. If you do not have a credit card you
can still enter Mexico by posting a bond. No borrowed vehicles or credit cards.
