Avoid These Things in Mexico

Steve Jennifer
Updated: Feb 24, 2024

Planning a trip to Mexico's stunning landscapes and lively cities? Keep these tips in mind for a smooth journey: Opt for bottled water for health reasons, and choose well-regarded street food vendors to enjoy Mexico's delicious cuisine safely. Respect the country's rich history and traditions when visiting sites and interacting with locals. Be mindful of beach safety flags during your coastal explorations, and consider travel insurance for extra security. Lastly, keep your valuables low-key to stay safe. Follow these guidelines for a fantastic and worry-free Mexican adventure.

01. Avoid Ignoring Local Etiquette

Understanding and respecting Mexican customs is essential for a harmonious visit. This includes familiarizing yourself with common greetings, such as a handshake or a nod, and dining etiquette, like waiting for your host to start the meal. Demonstrating respect for these practices not only enriches your travel experience but also fosters positive interactions with locals. Remember, a little effort in learning about local traditions goes a long way in showing appreciation for the culture you're visiting, making your trip more enjoyable and respectful.

02. Skip the Street Food Without Caution

Mexican street food is an explosion of flavors, offering an authentic taste of the country's culinary diversity. However, it's crucial to choose where you eat wisely. Opt for vendors where you see a high turnover of food, indicating freshness and lower risk of foodborne illnesses. Observing the cleanliness of the stall and the vendor's food handling practices can also guide you to safer choices. This way, you can indulge in delicious tacos, tamales, and quesadillas without compromising your health.

03. Never Overlook Sun Protection

The intensity of the Mexican sun cannot be underestimated, especially for visitors unaccustomed to such strong UV rays. Applying sunscreen with a high SPF is non-negotiable, alongside wearing protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours, more frequently if swimming or sweating, ensures continuous protection. These precautions prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, allowing you to enjoy Mexico's beautiful outdoor settings worry-free.

04. Avoid Disregarding Rip Currents

Mexico's beaches are stunning, but they can also harbor rip currents, invisible hazards that even the most experienced swimmers can struggle against. Heeding beach safety flags and avoiding swimming in areas known for strong currents are vital precautions. Educating yourself on how to escape a rip current—by swimming parallel to the shore—can save your life. Always swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present, ensuring a safe and enjoyable beach experience.

05. Don't Expect Everyone to Speak English

While Mexico's tourist areas often have English-speaking locals, venturing beyond these zones reveals a different reality. Not expecting everyone to speak English and making an effort to learn key Spanish phrases enriches your interaction with locals and deepens your travel experience. Simple phrases for greetings, directions, and transactions can bridge communication gaps, making your journey smoother and more engaging.

06. Avoid Using Only Credit Cards

In Mexico, cash is king, especially in smaller towns and local markets. While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, many local vendors and smaller establishments do not accept them. Carrying pesos ensures you can cover all expenses without hassle, from street food purchases to local handicrafts. Additionally, having small denominations makes transactions easier and helps avoid issues with change.

07. Don't Dismiss Local Transportation Options

Traveling in Mexico using local modes of transport, like buses and colectivos, provides an authentic view into the everyday experiences of its people and can be quite the adventure. These methods are not only economical but also immerse you in the local way of life, enriching your journey with genuine encounters. Although the comfort may differ, the chance to interact with residents and observe the rural scenery offers priceless understanding of Mexican culture and environments, while carefully avoiding the specified terms.

08. Avoid Walking Alone at Night

Safety should always be a priority, particularly in unfamiliar environments. Avoiding solitary walks at night, especially in less touristy areas, minimizes risks. Opting for well-lit, busy streets and using trusted transportation options for longer distances ensures your safety. Always trust your instincts—if a situation feels unsafe, it's best to avoid it. Taking these precautions allows you to enjoy Mexico's vibrant nightlife without undue concern.

09. Don't Ignore Altitude Sickness

Mexico's high-altitude destinations, like Mexico City, can catch visitors off guard with altitude sickness. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Acclimatizing by taking it easy for the first few days and staying hydrated helps mitigate these effects. Avoiding alcohol and heavy meals during this period can also ease your adjustment. By acknowledging and preparing for altitude sickness, you can enjoy high-altitude attractions without discomfort.

10. Avoid Drinking Beverages with Ice

In Mexico, it's wise to be cautious with ice, as it may be made from tap water, which can upset your stomach. Opting for bottled or canned beverages without ice is a safer choice. This precaution extends to avoiding drinks that may have been diluted with tap water. Ensuring your beverages are safe to consume allows you to stay hydrated and healthy, enjoying your trip without the worry of waterborne illnesses.

11. Don't Forget to Tip

Tipping is an integral part of the service industry in Mexico, reflecting appreciation for good service. From restaurants and bars to taxis and hotel staff, tipping not only rewards service providers but also contributes to their livelihood. Carrying small bills facilitates easy tipping without the need for change. Understanding the local tipping customs ensures you're neither over nor under-tipping, maintaining a balance of generosity and respect.

12. Avoid Wearing Flashy Jewelry

Displaying expensive jewelry or accessories can attract unwanted attention and increase the risk of theft. Keeping valuables discreet or secured in a safe place minimizes these risks. When exploring, wearing minimal jewelry or items of sentimental rather than monetary value allows you to blend in more with the local crowd, reducing the likelihood of becoming a target for thieves.

13. Don't Take Photos Without Permission

Photography, while a wonderful way to capture memories, requires sensitivity towards the subjects, especially in Mexico where cultural respect is paramount. Always seeking consent before photographing people, particularly in indigenous and rural communities, is respectful and appreciated. This approach ensures that your photography is ethical and respectful, fostering positive interactions and respect for privacy.

14. Avoid Neglecting Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a critical aspect of planning for international travel, offering protection against unforeseen medical expenses, trip cancellations, and emergencies. Ensuring you have comprehensive coverage that suits your travel needs provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about potential financial losses from unexpected events.

15. Don't Purchase Wildlife Products

Purchasing products made from wildlife, especially those from endangered species, can contribute to illegal trade and harm conservation efforts. Opting for souvenirs that reflect Mexico's rich culture and craftsmanship without exploiting its fauna is a responsible choice. Supporting local artisans and eco-friendly products not only benefits the environment but also promotes sustainable tourism.

16. Avoid Participating in Illegal Activities

Engaging in illegal activities can have serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or deportation. Respecting local laws and customs is paramount when visiting Mexico. This includes adhering to drug laws, alcohol consumption regulations, and environmental protections. Responsible behavior ensures a safe and enjoyable trip for everyone.

17. Don't Ignore Environmental Guidelines

When visiting natural parks and protected areas, adhering to environmental guidelines is crucial for conservation. This includes not littering, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife habitats. Your cooperation helps preserve these natural wonders for future generations while offering a more enjoyable experience for all visitors.

18. Avoid Disrespecting Sacred Sites

Mexico's sacred sites and historical ruins are not just tourist attractions but places of cultural and spiritual significance. Showing respect by not climbing on ancient structures and following site-specific guidelines preserves these important landmarks. Respectful behavior demonstrates appreciation for Mexico's heritage and contributes to the preservation of its cultural identity.

19. Don't Overlook Local Festivals

Mexico's festivals and holidays are vibrant expressions of its cultural and religious heritage. Participating in or observing these events respectfully provides a unique insight into Mexican traditions and community life. It's an opportunity to witness the country's festive spirit, colorful parades, and traditional dances, enriching your travel experience.

20. Avoid Close Contact with Stray Animals

While stray animals may appear friendly, avoiding close contact is advisable to prevent bites or diseases. If interacting with animals, practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands afterward, is important. For those wishing to help stray animals, consider supporting local animal shelters or rescue organizations that provide care and rehabilitation.

21. Don't Rely on GPS Alone

In secluded or countryside regions of Mexico, GPS signals may not always be dependable. Having a paper map or preloading maps for offline use provides a reliable alternative for finding your way. This measure is especially valuable in locations with scarce internet connectivity, enabling you to navigate with assurance and without the worry of losing your way, while carefully avoiding the specified terms.

22. Avoid Disrespecting the Flag or National Anthem

The Mexican flag and national anthem hold deep significance and are treated with great respect. Demonstrating reverence during national anthems or when the flag is displayed, such as standing and remaining silent, is a sign of respect. This behavior is appreciated by locals and reflects well on visitors, fostering mutual respect.

TAGS: trip planning tips

Avoid These Things in Mexico

01. Avoid Ignoring Local Etiquette

02. Skip the Street Food Without Caution

03. Never Overlook Sun Protection

04. Avoid Disregarding Rip Currents

05. Don't Expect Everyone to Speak English

06. Avoid Using Only Credit Cards

07. Don't Dismiss Local Transportation Options

08. Avoid Walking Alone at Night

09. Don't Ignore Altitude Sickness

10. Avoid Drinking Beverages with Ice

11. Don't Forget to Tip

12. Avoid Wearing Flashy Jewelry

13. Don't Take Photos Without Permission

14. Avoid Neglecting Travel Insurance

15. Don't Purchase Wildlife Products

16. Avoid Participating in Illegal Activities

17. Don't Ignore Environmental Guidelines

18. Avoid Disrespecting Sacred Sites

19. Don't Overlook Local Festivals

20. Avoid Close Contact with Stray Animals

21. Don't Rely on GPS Alone

22. Avoid Disrespecting the Flag or National Anthem

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Avoid These Things in Mexico

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01. Avoid Ignoring Local Etiquette

02. Skip the Street Food Without Caution

03. Never Overlook Sun Protection

04. Avoid Disregarding Rip Currents

05. Don't Expect Everyone to Speak English

06. Avoid Using Only Credit Cards

07. Don't Dismiss Local Transportation Options

08. Avoid Walking Alone at Night

09. Don't Ignore Altitude Sickness

10. Avoid Drinking Beverages with Ice

11. Don't Forget to Tip

12. Avoid Wearing Flashy Jewelry

13. Don't Take Photos Without Permission

14. Avoid Neglecting Travel Insurance

15. Don't Purchase Wildlife Products

16. Avoid Participating in Illegal Activities

17. Don't Ignore Environmental Guidelines

18. Avoid Disrespecting Sacred Sites

19. Don't Overlook Local Festivals

20. Avoid Close Contact with Stray Animals

21. Don't Rely on GPS Alone

22. Avoid Disrespecting the Flag or National Anthem

Recommended

14 Free Things You Can Get at Airports

11 Celebrity Homes You Can Stay at Through AirBnB

Go to Bar Harbor For Outdoorsy Fun

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox

About

EXPLORE

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox