Mexico

Mexico’s official language is Spanish, although millions still speak an indigenous tongue as well. English is understood most places in the country.

The official currency is the Peso ($MXN). The peso is divided by 100 centavos. The U.S. dollar buys approximately $MXN19. Please check the current exchange rate before traveling, as it changes daily.

The electrical current in Mexico is 127V AC, 60Hz. Socket and plugs are the same as in the United States. Visitors from other countries may need adapters or converters.

Internet connections and WiFi spots are found throughout the country. Most major hotels provide good accessibility.

Tourist visas are not required of visitors from the USA, Europe and most western nations. A valid passport is required for entry. Visitors must fill out a tourist card (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) upon arrival and pay the tourism fee of $22 per person.

Generally, it is best to avoid using tap water for drinking and washing. Most of the larger hotels and resorts do offer purified and treated water, but most visitors should use bottled water when possible.

Mexico uses four time zones. Most of the country is in the Central Standard (Zona Centro) (EST -1). The state of Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun and region, is on Eastern Standard Time (in Mexico, Southeastern Time, or Zona Sureste). The southern portion of Baja California, which includes the Las Cabos area, is on Mountain Time (locally Zona Pacifico), while the northern section of Baja is on Pacific Time (locally, Northwest or Zona Noroeste). Daylight Savings Time is observed from the first Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October.

Although visitors arrive year-round, Mexico’s peak tourist season is in the winter months: November through April.