Get
essential Mexico travel information, from visa rules and safety
advice to the best time to visit. Discover key facts, cultural
insights, and practical tips to help you plan a smooth and authentic
trip across this vibrant country.
Country: Mexico
Continent / Region: North America / Latin America
Capital City: Mexico City
Government Type: Federal Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 129 million
Official Language(s): Spanish
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~12% (higher in tourist regions)
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT−5 to GMT−8 (multiple zones)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type A/B – 127V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 10–11 hours (direct to Mexico City or Cancun)
Best Time/Months to Travel: December–April (dry season)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 180 days; free entry
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; Hepatitis A & Typhoid recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Mexico):
Average Daily Costs: £40 / £80 / £180+
Tipping Culture: 10–15% standard in restaurants; tips expected for service workers
Public Transport Options: Buses, metro (Mexico City), taxis, colectivos
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: MXN $5 (Mexico City metro)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G/5G; Telcel, Movistar, AT&T Mexico
Main Climate Type: Tropical, desert, and temperate regions
Average Temperature: 15–30°C depending on region and season
Major Cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla, Cancún, Mérida
Natural Attractions: Cenotes, jungles, deserts, volcanoes, coral reefs
Popular Destinations: Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos
Main Religions: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Tacos, mole, tamales, ceviche, elote, chilaquiles, churros
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Chichén Itzá, Tulum ruins, Teotihuacán pyramids, Copper Canyon, Palenque, Frida Kahlo Museum
Overall Safety Rating: Tourist areas generally safe; caution advised in some regions
Common Scams: Taxi overcharging, fake tour bookings, ATM skimming
Health Risks: Sun exposure, mosquitos, food sensitivity
Recommended Clinics: Private hospitals in major cities and tourist hubs
Insurance Recommendation: Strongly recommended, including medical cover
Internet Speed: Good 4G/5G; reliable in cities and resorts
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Chichén Itzá, Tulum beaches, Mexico City historic centre, Isla Mujeres, Teotihuacán, Cozumel reefs
Unique Experiences: Swimming in cenotes, Lucha Libre matches, mezcal tastings, Day of the Dead celebrations, hot air balloons over Teotihuacán
Hidden Gems: Bacalar Lagoon, Real de Catorce, Hierve el Agua, Holbox Island, San Cristóbal de las Casas
Popular Areas to Stay: Zona Rosa (CDMX), Polanco, Tulum Beach, Playa del Carmen, Cancun Hotel Zone, Puerto Vallarta Malecón
Average Hotel Prices: £30 / £60 / £150+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Cancun Hotel Zone, Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue, Mexico City Roma & Condesa
Local Drinks: Mezcal, tequila, micheladas, aguas frescas
Entertainment: Beach clubs, rooftop bars, salsa clubs, mariachi shows
Car Rental: Available; driving varies by region
Domestic Flights: Frequent and affordable
Trains: Limited (new Maya Train expanding options)
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Cheap; Uber widely used in major cities
Best Markets: Mercado La Ciudadela (CDMX), Tulum handicraft market, Oaxaca artisan markets
Popular Souvenirs: Talavera pottery, vanilla, textiles, silver jewellery, tequila, mezcal
Local SIM Card Providers: Telcel, Movistar, AT&T Mexico
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (daily)
Tap Water Safety: Not safe to drink; use bottled water
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Mexico City is built on a lake — and has been slowly sinking for decades.