Mexico Destination Guide

Overview of Mexico Mexico is vibrant, colourful and unique. Its varied terrain ranges from cactus-studded deserts to white sandy beaches and blue waters, tropical rainforest and jungle-clad hills to steep rocky canyons and narrow gorges, and from snow-capped volcano peaks to huge, bustling cities. The extraordinary history of the country is visible in the ancient Mayan temples strewn across the jungles, the ruins of Aztec civilisations, rural indigenous villages, Spanish colonial cities, silver mining towns, and traditional Mexican ports. Since the height of the Mayan and Aztec civilisations, Mexico has suffered the destructive force of the Conquistadors, European colonial rule, civil and territorial wars, rebellions, dictatorships, recessions and earthquakes. Despite all this, Mexico's people are warm and friendly, much of the countryside remains unspoilt by development, and its cities have a unique blend of architecture. Mexican Buildings display a striking combination of colonial and pagan architecture, blending together Art Nouveau, Baroque, Art Deco and Native American design in churches and public structures. The country's culture is a similar blend of the traditional and modern, where pagan meets Christian in a series of festivals, or fiestas, throughout the year. Mexico also has several hundred miles of coastline extending down through both the Pacific and the Caribbean, home to numerous extremely popular beach resorts. Resort cities such as Acapulco, Cancun and those of the Baja California peninsula are vacation havens. The countryside enclosing these summer retreats is also rich in archaeological treasures with pyramids, ruins of ancient cities and great stone carvings of ancient gods standing as testament to a country once ruled by the Aztecs and Mayans. Violence linked to the drug cartels is widespread but seldom aimed at tourists. Despite recent reports of drug wars and safety issues, Mexico remains a hugely popular and predominantly safe tourist destination.

Key Facts

Language: Spanish is the official language in Mexico. Some English is spoken in tourist regions. Passport/Visa: All foreign passengers to Mexico must hold a Mexico Visitor's Permit (FMM), which is issued free of charge, and obtainable from airlines, Mexican Consulates, Mexican international airports, and border crossing points. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers transiting through the United States are required to present a passport, or other valid travel document, to enter or re-enter the United States. Foreign passengers to Mexico should ensure that their passports and other travel documents are in good condition - even slightly torn passports will not be accepted. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: Mexican currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), divided into 100 centavos. Credit cards are widely accepted, particularly Visa, MasterCard and American Express. ATMs are available in most cities and towns and are the most convenient way to get money, but for safety reasons should only be used during business hours and vigilance is advised. Although many businesses will accept foreign currency (particularly US Dollars) it is best to use pesos. Foreign currency can be exchanged at one of many casas de cambio (exchange houses), which have longer hours and offer a quicker service than the banks. Electricity: 110-120 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin flat blade attachment plugs are standard.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Mexico Overview Mexico has consistently proven to be one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world and for good reason. With its exotic sandy beaches, blue waters and warm climate, extraordinary history and diverse landscapes, it would take a few months, if not years, to explore and discover all that this magical country has to offer. Spend a few days wandering round the ancient Mayan and Aztec pyramids and ruins, explore the deserts and swamps, marvel at the rainforests and discover the hundreds of species of orchid along the way, or navigate an eco-tour by mountain bike, jeep, kayak or horseback. There are 67 National Parks conserving indigenous fauna and flora, and the country is a bird-watcher's paradise, with the most species of birds in the whole of North America. The west coast of Mexico's Baja California peninsula is regarded as having some of the best whale watching destinations in the world. The three lagoons on the Pacific Coast that offer the best locations for watching Gray Whales are Magdalena Bay, San Ignacio Lagoon and Scammon's Lagoon. Humpback Whales and Blue Whales breed in the Sea of Cortez, and Bahia de Los Angeles is the centre for whale watching expeditions in the area. Beach resort cities such as Acapulco, Cancun and those of the Baja California region are considered to be a slice of heaven. The wonderfully unique architecture and evidence of European colonial rule still exist in the cities, while El Zócalo in Mexico City, the second largest city square in the world, is where it all happens and is the best place to experience some real Mexican flavour. Mexican cruises mix old world charm with modern amenities, giving a great blend of excitement and serenity to the holiday cruise. Mexican cruises typically only visit the west coast while the beautiful and warm waters on the east are usually included in Caribbean cruise packages. Climate in Mexico The Tropic of Cancer divides Mexico into a tropical south and temperate north, which means that the northern region experiences cooler winter temperatures, whereas the south is hot all year with little seasonal variation. The coastal plains and Yucatan Peninsula of the south experience average annual temperatures ranging between 75°F and 82°F (24°C and 28°C). The annual average temperatures in the northern lowlands are somewhat lower, ranging between 68°F and 75°F (20°C and 24°C), mainly because there is greater seasonal variation. The whole country tends to be hot and humid between May and August and is pleasantly warm throughout the year. Rainfall varies widely according to region and terrain, but Mexico does have distinct wet and dry seasons: most of the country experiences a rainy season between late May and mid-October, with significantly less rain the rest of the year. February is the driest month and July is the wettest. Hurricanes are possible between June and November. The best time to visit Mexico is between November and early May. It is best to avoid the peak summer months (June to August), when it is uncomfortably hot, and the Easter holidays (March and April), when it can get unbearably crowded. Health Notes when travelling to Mexico Those entering Mexico from an infected area require a yellow fever certificate. There are no vaccination requirements for visitors to Mexico, however visitors should take medical advice if travelling outside the major tourist areas. A malaria risk exists in some rural areas, but not on the Pacific and Gulf coasts, and dengue fever is on the increase. Vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A and typhoid. Travellers who may come into close contact with animals and may be at risk of bites should consider a rabies vaccination. Sensible precautions regarding food and water should be followed and visitors are advised to be cautious of street food and stick to bottled water. Medical facilities are basic, so comprehensive medical insurance is recommended. As medicines may be in short supply in certain areas travellers should consider taking along prescription medications, in their original packaging, and accompanied by a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing what it is and why it is needed. Note: Zika is still a risk in Mexico. Because Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause serious birth defects, women who are pregnant should seek advice from healthcare providers before travelling to Mexico.

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Safety Notes when travelling to Mexico There can be incidents of robberies and muggings in Mexico, especially in the big cities such as Mexico City. Travellers, particularly women on their own, should be vigilant and take care of their belongings, especially on public transport. Only use authorised taxi services, and try to avoid bus travel at night. Visitors are advised to be wary of people presenting themselves as police officers attempting to fine or arrest them for no apparent reason, leading to theft or assault. If in doubt ask for identification. Most of the violence related to drug cartel wars in Mexico is concentrated along the border between Mexico and the United States. Tourist zones are generally unaffected, though it is worth checking the news before travelling. Hurricanes may affect the coastal areas between June and November. Customs in Mexico Mexicans are not impatient and do not appreciate impatience in others, so travellers should expect opening hours and public transport times to be flexible and laid back. Mexicans are friendly and hospitable people and courteous behaviour and polite speech in return is greatly appreciated. Travellers should also note that it is common for Mexicans to communicate closer than one arm's length from each other and that it is not an attempt to be forward. Duty Free in Mexico Travellers to Mexico over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 200g tobacco; 3 litres spirits or 6 litres wine; other goods to the value of US$500 if arriving by air, or US$300 if arriving by land are premitted without incurring duty fees. Prohibited goods include narcotics, firearms and used clothing that is not part of your personal luggage. The export of archaeological artefacts is strictly forbidden. Doing Business in Mexico In Mexico, business is ideally conducted face-to-face. Although many Mexican businessmen speak perfect English, Spanish is the official language of business in Mexico - and learning a few choice words and phrases will go a long way toward ingratiating yourself with your new associates. Business etiquette in Mexico is marked by a combination of formality and friendliness. It is very rare to hear the word 'No' being used in a direct or confrontational way - bald refusals are seen as rude. Use titles ('Señhor' and 'Señhora') until specifically instructed not to do so, but do not shrink away from engaging in personal discussions with your colleagues. Business meetings must be scheduled in advance, and then confirmed a few days before they are due to take place. The dress code for the Mexican business world is smart and formal. Business hours in Mexico are generally from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (with a 2 or 3 hour siesta in the early afternoon). Communication in Mexico The international access code for Mexico is +52. If calling internationally from a phone booth use the official TelMex phone booths, as all others charge very high fees. There is widespread network coverage in Mexico from Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T Mexico. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. Tipping in Mexico Tipping is customary in Mexico for almost all services as employees are not paid sufficient hourly wages and often rely on tips. Waiters and bar staff should be tipped 10 to 15 percent if a service charge hasn't already been added to the bill. The American custom of tipping 15 to 20 percent is practiced at international resorts, including those in Los Cabos. Passport/Visa Note All foreign passengers to Mexico must hold a Mexico Visitor's Permit (FMM), which is issued free of charge, and obtainable from airlines, Mexican Consulates, Mexican international airports, and border crossing points. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers transiting through the United States are required to present a passport, or other valid travel document, to enter or re-enter the United States. Foreign passengers to Mexico should ensure that their passports and other travel documents are in good condition - even slightly torn passports will not be accepted. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Entry Requirements Travel guideEntry by requirementswordtravels.com © for Globe Americans: Media Ltd. By its veryUS nature citizens much must of the have information a passport in this travel that guide is valid is subject upon to their change arrival at short in noticeMexico. and Atravellers visa is are not urged required to verify for information stays of on up which to they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event180 days.details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mexico. A visa is not required for holders of British passports endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas) or British Subject for stays of up to 180 days.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days. Note that visa exemptions apply to holders of an APEC Business Travel Card, provided that the card is valid for travel to Mexico (i.e. endorsed with "MEX" on its reverse side).

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mexico. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days. Note that visa exemptions apply to holders of an APEC Business Travel Card, provided that the card is valid for travel to Mexico (i.e. endorsed with "MEX" on its reverse side).

Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mexico. A visa is required. Passengers with a valid visa issued by Canada, Japan, USA, United Kingdom or a Schengen Member State are visa exempt for a maximum stay of 180 days.

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Tourist Offices Mexico Tourism Board: +52 55 5278 4200 or http://www.visitmexico.com

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Mexico Embassies In the United States: Mexican Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 728 1600.

In Canada: Mexican Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 233 8988.

In the United Kingdom: Mexican Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7499 8586.

In Australia: Mexican Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6273 3963.

In Ireland: Mexican Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 667 3105.

In New Zealand: Mexican Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 4 472 0555.

In South Africa: Mexican Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 460 1004.

Foreign Embassies in Mexico American Embassy United States Embassy, Mexico City: +52 55 5080 2000.

Canadian Embassy Canadian Embassy, Mexico City: +52 55 5724 7900.

British Embassy British Embassy, Mexico City: +52 55 1670 3200.

Australian Embassy Australian Embassy, Mexico City: +52 55 1101 2200.

Irish Embassy Irish Embassy, Mexico City: +52 55 5520 5803.

New Zealand Embassy New Zealand Embassy, Mexico City: +52 55 5283 9460.

South African Embassy South African Embassy, Mexico City: +52 55 1100 4970.

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Currency Mexican currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), divided into 100 centavos. Credit cards are widely accepted, particularly Visa, MasterCard and American Express. ATMs are available in most cities and towns and are the most convenient way to get money, but for safety reasons should only be used during business hours and vigilance is advised. Although many businesses will accept foreign currency (particularly US Dollars) it is best to use pesos. Foreign currency can be exchanged at one of many casas de cambio (exchange houses), which have longer hours and offer a quicker service than the banks.

Exchange rate for 1 MXN - Mexican Peso 0.05 BMD 0.05 EUR 0.05 USD 0.04 GBP 5.84 JPY 0.07 CAD Bermudan Dollar Euro U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar 0.05 CHF 0.07 AUD 1.35 UAH 18.12 KZT 80.81 LBP 0.04 LYD Swiss Franc Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar 0.37 BOB 5.79 NPR 0.02 OMR 0.20 QAR 0.07 SGD 0.44 SEK Bolivian Boliviano Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona 0.36 TTD 0.54 VEF 2.46 DOP 0.36 HRK 31.46 XOF 0.17 PGK Trinidad Tobago Dollar Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna West African CFA Franc Papua New Guinean kina 0.05 BSD 0.11 FJD 1.21 HNL 5.93 DZD 63.93 MMK 0.60 BWP Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat Botswana Pula 0.18 PEN 37.22 CLP 25.66 AMD 1.30 CZK 1.07 MDL 6.67 ISK Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei Icelandic Krona 157.70 UZS 0.21 ILS 0.04 JOD 0.02 KWD 1.68 UYU 1.91 MUR Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso Mauritian Rupee 1.53 NIO 0.45 NOK 0.21 PLN 0.20 SAR 7.84 LKR 1.91 THB Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee Thai Baht 0.20 AED 0.19 BRL 0.22 RON 0.42 HKD 31.53 XAF 1,206.06 VND U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc Vietnamese Dong 0.75 ARS 0.14 XCD 0.42 GTQ 0.52 MAD 0.02 BHD 0.05 PAB Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 0.08 AZN 167.31 COP 3.67 KGS 15.01 HUF 0.42 TJS 734.28 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 0.48 EGP 63.92 KRW 304.24 PYG 0.22 MYR 28.91 CRC 0.08 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 5.62 PKR 3.58 RUB 0.84 ZAR 0.11 TND 0.11 BBD 0.09 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 0.16 TRY 2.50 PHP 1.75 TWD 10.54 NGN 5.75 XPF 0.21 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 6.70 JMD 0.10 ANG 0.07 BND 5.93 RSD 0.35 CNY 1,067.81 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 0.36 DKK 0.18 TMT 3.61 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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Port of Call - Acapulco Acapulco is a popular cruise port for ships sailing anywhere on the Pacific coast between Panama and San Francisco. The town itself sits on a beautiful stretch of beach in a semi-circular bay that has offered deepwater berths for ships since the 16th century. Today Acapulco's port function has been overtaken by its popularity as a sun-and-sand holiday destination, appealing to Mexican and overseas visitors in equal measure. Apart from the usual resort pastimes, like dancing and tanning, Acapulco offers the world-famous La Perla cliff divers and an attractive old town that's well worth exploring. Cruise ships in Acapulco berth at the rather unattractive Acapulco terminal in the north of the bay, near Costera Miguel Aleman. There are good facilities here, including tourist information, internet access, shopping and taxis, and the old town is only 15 minutes' walk away.

Shopping in Acapulco

Head to the open-air market near the Plaza Bahia for handicrafts such as jewellery and leather gear. The Mercado Parazal is also good for souvenirs. Bargaining is expected and necessary! The streets of the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone) are lined with designer boutiques; for Acapulco's biggest mall make a beeline to Le Gran Plaza on the edge of town. Best Buy: Silver jewellery

Dining in Acapulco

La Casa de la Pasta - the best Italian food in Acapulco. Zibu - a blend of Mexican and Thai food with great views of Puerto Marques. Su Casa - a friendly restaurant with city views that serves Mexican cuisine and good seafood. Best Dish: Grilled red snapper

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Port of Call - Cabo San Lucas Located on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is a well-developed beach resort and port of call that boasts many attractions for cruise passengers. The picturesque sandy beaches and idyllic weather make the resort a paradise for watersports and other outdoor pursuits. Cabo San Lucas is a wildly popular holiday destination, and has developed a bit of a reputation for being 'Americanised', as dollars are widely accepted and nearly everyone speaks English. The resort also attracts a young and lively college crowd that ensures all the local restaurants and cantinas are always buzzing. Although it may not be the best place to get a taste of authentic Mexican culture, it's a glorious resort with many fun beach activities and great restaurants and night spots. For those who prefer something a little more traditional, San Jose del Cabo, the resort town right next door, is more quaint and laid-back. Cruise ships in Cabo San Lucas drop anchor just offshore and ferry passengers to the Tender Pier, conveniently located in downtown Cabo.

Shopping in Cabo San Lucas

There's plenty of shopping to be done in Cabo San Lucas; most of it is of the tacky t-shirt variety, but determined shoppers will unearth some unique souvenirs from Cabo. Puerto Paraiso Shopping and Entertainment Plaza and the adjacent Marina Cabo San Lucas have many shops and a festive atmosphere, while the high-end boutiques in Shoppes At Palmilla offer beautiful (if expensive) art, jewellery and handcrafts. Best Buy: Hand-blown glass from The Cabo San Lucas Glass Factory

Dining in Cabo San Lucas

Los Tres Gallos - authentic Mexican food with a gourmet touch. La Dolce - Italian restaurant with Mexican charm. Cabo Blue - American-style bar and grill with burgers and chicken wings for reasonable prices. Best Dish: Carnitas (slow cooked, spiced, then shredded pork shoulder) with tacos

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Port of Call - Cancun Cancun, the premiere tourist city in Mexico, is a combination of two areas: the city centre inland, and the resort centre which sports a line of towering hotels flanked by aqua water and white sand beaches. Cancun is full of resort-style fun, the best of which includes visits to the many picturesque beaches and golf courses which are all similarly idyllic. Cancun cruises usually don't actually stop at Cancun but instead farther south at Calica, also called Playa Del Carmen, which is about an hour's drive, located 41 miles (66 kilometers) from the city. Calica can berth two cruise liners and cruises that stop at the city of Cancun anchor far offshore with long tender rides to a small pier. Cruise excursions also arrive from Cozumel.

Shopping in Cancun

With six huge and modern shopping complexes and hundreds of stores shopping can be overwhelming. A popular place for local souvenirs instead of designer fashion is one of three markets, the largest being Market 28 also called mercado veintiocho. Best Buy: Fashionable bathing suit

Dining in Cancun

Peter's Restaurante - good Mexican food at reasonable prices Fantino - Fine dining at the Ritz Carlton Captain's Cove - Laid back deck seating with great views Best Dish: Fish Taco

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Port of Call - Cozumel Cozumel still retains clear blue water, thick jungle and some of its character as an out of the way Mexican fishing island despite its recent reincarnation as a major cruise hub. The island's most well known activities include some of the world's top dive sites on renowned coral reefs, and leisurely strolls in the island's one town, San Miguel. Cruise ships in Cozumel dock in one of three locations: the farthest from downtown is Puerta Maya, a bit farther south than TMM International Pier, both of which are about a seven minute ride from San Miguel; and Punta Langosta Pier, which is within walking distance. When all the berths are full, anchored ships can tender passengers to the docks at Punta Langosta.

Shopping in Cozumel

Shoppers have a large choice of boutique shops and souvenir stores clustered in the central square of San Miguel and near the waterfront. Goods are usually less expensive than just across the water in Cancun or other mainland cruise ports. Best Buy: Detailed linens or carvings

Dining in Cozumel

Coconuts Bar and Grill - A remote feel with sea and jungle scenery and great views. Wet Wendy's - Cheerful and relaxed bar popular with locals and famous for margaritas. Especias Restaurante - fun and family-friendly Mexican fusion restaurant. Best Dish: Margaritas

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Port of Call - Mazatlan Mazatlan is a working commercial port moonlighting as a tourist beach haven: it's often a one-day stop on Mexican Riviera cruises. Despite its port industry and status as a wildly popular beach resort, Mazatlan retains the ambiance of a colonial fishing town. Although mega-resorts specialising in all-inclusive package holidays line its long beaches, Mazatlan still has a historic colonial city centre, most apparent in Plaza Machado at the heart of Old Town. An iconic waterfront walkway and the breathtaking spectacle of cliff divers plunging into the sea add to the charm but the miles of beaches are what lure most visitors. Cruises in Mazatlan dock at a primarily commercial port and connect to the cruise terminal by a free tram. The cruise terminal has a small shopping area and taxis for a ten-minute ride into the city centre.

Shopping in Mazatlan

The Golden Zone is an aptly named golden opportunity for souvenir and knick knack shopping and is made for tourists. Old Mazatlan has slightly more authentic markets where crafts can be purchased. A shopping mall, La Gran Plaza, offers any modern necessities including a supermarket. Best Buy: Gemstones (only from licensed stores)

Dining in Mazatlan

Topolo - popular for fine dining and good seafood. Carlos & Lucia's - a casual diner with Mexican and Cuban flair. Pancho's - Mexican seafood restaurant right on the beach. Best Dish: Shrimp cooked every which way

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Port of Call - Playa del Carmen (Calica) The port of Calica in Playa del Carmen is located on the Yucatan Peninsula. It is a beautiful destination where many cruise passengers stop to enjoy the lovely white stretch of coast. There are ancient Mayan ruins dating back to the 13th century, verdant jungle, and miles of sandy beaches. It's no surprise the port of Calica is so popular. Playa del Carmen offers enough shopping, dining and fun excursions and activities to satisfy just about any traveller. A day onshore can be spent lounging on the beach, enjoying various watersports or a scuba diving trip, or perusing the numerous shops and sampling traditional Mexican fare in the restaurants. Cruise ships dock at the small port of Calica which is located about five miles (8km) south of Playa del Carmen, with many passengers also choosing to be ferried across from the port of Cozumel.

Shopping in Playa del Carmen (Calica)

Playa del Carmen is a shopping paradise, especially when it comes to silver jewellery! Haggling is common in most market places. Just outside the dock is the south end of 5th Avenue, a pedestrian-only thoroughfare where many of the town's shops and restaurants are located. The dock is next to Playa del Carmen's main square, where stalls selling cold drinks and slices of fresh tropical fruit can be found, as well as an outdoor centre with shops and restaurants. Many of these are American chain stores though and tourist shops which all seem to stock the same clutter and souvenirs, such as Carlos 'n Charlie's and Senor Frog's. Best Buy: Silver jewellery

Dining in Playa del Carmen (Calica)

Passion by Martin Berasategui - exceptional fine dining, offering tasting menus with Spanish flair. It's not cheap, but it's an incredible dining experience. El Fogon Restaurant - a cheap and delicious taste of local Mexican cuisine. Mayan Bistro - traditional Mayan style food, in a relaxed atmosphere. They serve breakfast too. Best Dish: Massewal (Traditional chicken broth)

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Port of Call - Puerto Costa Maya Once a bustling trading post for the Mayan civilization, most of the commerce happening today in Puerto Costa Maya comes from the city's status as a popular port of call on Caribbean cruises in Mexico. Mexico's newest port, Puerto Costa Maya is the first port on Mexico's Caribbean Coast to have been built exclusively for cruise ships and cruise holiday visitors. Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula near the fishing village of Majahual, Puerto Costa Maya is the fastest growing cruise port in the Caribbean and consists of three grand pavilions in the style of ancient Maya. Known as a site for good beaches, lush subtropical jungles, and fascinating ancient ruins, Puerto Costa Maya is frequented by nearly a dozen popular cruise lines. The commercial, cultural and entertainment centre offers dining, shopping and recreational facilities, a swimming pool and swim-up bar, local performances in the amphitheatre, as well as art and craft galleries showcasing the region's local artists and their art - a lot to enjoy on holiday. The infrastructure has been carefully designed to meet the special needs of cruise ship passengers. Beyond the pavilions, Costa Maya provides access to undeveloped areas of coastline, colourful reefs and shipwrecks for diving and snorkelling, and the chance to explore ancient Mayan sites. Puerto Costa Maya tour operators offer dune buggy tours, trips to Mayan sites like Kohunlich and Dzibanche, and kayak adventures along the coast. Free shuttles transport passengers regularly between the pier complex and their ships.

Shopping in Puerto Costa Maya

Passengers alighting from cruise ships in Puerto Costa Maya are carried by shuttle to the Mayan-inspired port complex, which boasts 70,000 square feet (6,503sq m) of shops and a bazaar. Shoppers should beware of apparently silver jewellery, as much of it is actually only silver-plated. Bargaining is expected, and prices listed with the $ symbol are in Mexican pesos, while US Dollar prices are listed as US$ or USD. Best Buy: Tequila

Dining in Puerto Costa Maya

Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill - American- and Mexican-style food on the beachfront. Leaky Palapa - Good wine and high quality cuisine. Best Dish: Fresh seafood ceviche

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Port of Call - Puerto Vallarta Puerto Vallarta, on the Mexican Rivera, is book-ended by tall luxury resorts and a long line of white sand beach but in its centre there are charming colonial buildings and the remnants of a sleepy fishing town. The most popular activities are watersports on any part of the Golden Zone, a resorty stretch of sand. The Old Town is an attractive district for sightseeing and the perusal of some picturesque colonial architecture. A new Maritime Terminal, built in 2007, can berth up to three cruise liners although sometimes a fourth has to anchor in the bay and tender passengers to the terminal. The terminal is three miles north of the city and has a host of tourist facilities such as shops, restaurants, and information centres. Transportation can easily be found to the city centre and the Old Town can be comfortably explored on foot.

Shopping in Puerto Vallarta

Several American-style shopping complexes can be found near the cruise terminal but better shopping is available in the city centre. In the Old Town and just off the Melicon visitors will discover the best souvenir shopping in authentic Mexican style markets. A swarm of art galleries are available all over town, many of them offering crafts from all over the country. Best Buy: Beaded crafts.

Dining in Puerto Vallarta

Teatro Limon - fine dining in a friendly atmosphere. Casa Isabel - Mexican fusion with fantastic views. Tacos Panchos - cheap and cheerful taco joint open for dinner. Best Dish: Street-side tacos

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Overview of the Attractions in Mexico Mexico has consistently proven to be one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world and for good reason. With its exotic sandy beaches, blue waters and warm climate, extraordinary history and diverse landscapes, it would take a few months, if not years, to explore and discover all that this magical country has to offer. Spend a few days wandering round the ancient Mayan and Aztec pyramids and ruins, explore the deserts and swamps, marvel at the rainforests and discover the hundreds of species of orchid along the way, or navigate an eco-tour by mountain bike, jeep, kayak or horseback. There are 67 National Parks conserving indigenous fauna and flora, and the country is a bird-watcher's paradise, with the most species of birds in the whole of North America. The west coast of Mexico's Baja California peninsula is regarded as having some of the best whale watching destinations in the world. The three lagoons on the Pacific Coast that offer the best locations for watching Gray Whales are Magdalena Bay, San Ignacio Lagoon and Scammon's Lagoon. Humpback Whales and Blue Whales breed in the Sea of Cortez, and Bahia de Los Angeles is the centre for whale watching expeditions in the area. Beach resort cities such as Acapulco, Cancun and those of the Baja California region are considered to be a slice of heaven. The wonderfully unique architecture and evidence of European colonial rule still exist in the cities, while El Zócalo in Mexico City, the second largest city square in the world, is where it all happens and is the best place to experience some real Mexican flavour. Mexican cruises mix old world charm with modern amenities, giving a great blend of excitement and serenity to the holiday cruise. Mexican cruises typically only visit the west coast while the beautiful and warm waters on the east are usually included in Caribbean cruise packages.

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Public Holidays in Mexico 2020 2021 New Year's Day (Año Nuevo) Fri. January 1 Fri. January 1 Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución) Fri. February 5 Fri. February 5 Benito Juárez's birthday Tue. March 16 Mon. March 15 Labour Day Sat. May 1 Sat. May 1 Independence Day Thu. September 16 Thu. September 16 Revolution Day Tue. November 16 Mon. November 15 Christmas Day Sat. December 25 Sat. December 25 Good Friday Sat. April 10 Fri. April 2

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