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What to Know Before Visiting Mexico City?
People flock to Mexico City every year for its chic Latin vibes, exceptional cuisine, and cultural richness. But before you embark on your journey, you’ll want to know what to expect. Fortunately, this guide will provide the essential info that you need to have an enjoyable experience.
Safety Tips
The vast majority of experiences in Mexico City are positive and safe. There are certain precautions that are wise to take, however, especially if you are travelling alone or with a tourist group.
• Street Smarts. Pickpockets and mugging are fairly uncommon in Mexico City, but it is important to stay aware of your surroundings. Do not flash large sums of money or expensive jewellery, and if possible, avoid deserted areas late at night.
• Avoid Illegal Drugs. This is true for travel anywhere, but particularly in Mexico City from a legal standpoint. Recreational drugs are increasingly available in the capital, but if found guilty of possession the penalty can be quite severe.
• Be Mindful of Pollution. The air quality in Mexico City can be quite poor at times, and visitors should be mindful of the potential health effects. It is best to bring a face mask in order to reduce inhalation of particulate matter while walking through the city.
Money Matters
One of the great things about Mexico City is that it’s quite affordable compared to cities like New York or London. The Mexican peso is the currency of choice, and the currency converter can be found here.
Which Cards are Accepted? Credit cards are accepted in nearly all establishments, with Visa and Mastercard being the two most commonly accepted forms of credit card payment. It is worth noting that cash often receives a better exchange rate than foreign credit cards so it’s best to use the latter for larger purchases.
Local Customs on Tipping: Tipping is not a requirement at restaurants in Mexico City but it is common practice to ’round up’. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, as they include it in their fare as a matter of courtesy.
Getting Around Mexico City
One of the greatest advantages to visiting Mexico City is its public transportation system. It is fast, efficient and surprisingly cheap – when using a fare card called MF30 (a local transportation card) you can pay as little as 10 pesos ($0.50) per ride on the metro bus. Taxis are handy for short trips and usually quite cheap depending on the distance travelled. Uber is also extremely popular – here you may wish to consider a private driver if you’re travelling alone at night.
Where To Stay
Mexico City offers everything from ‘luxury backpacking’ hostels to high-end boutique hotels so there is something for every budget. Accommodation closer to the centre of town will be more expensive, however, there are excellent deals available at condo-style apartments a short distance from the centre if you hunt around. A few good websites for booking accommodation in Mexico City include Airbnb, FlipKey, and HostelWorld.
Coffee and Cuisine
As with any city destination, food and beverages will play a major part in your holiday experience so make sure to avail yourself of some of Mexico City’s gastronomic delights! The perfect start to any day begins with strong coffee at one of the city’s many local cafes (think tons of farm-fresh Chilanga beans). There are literally thousands of eateries across the city and many interesting dishes unique to the area. While it would be impossible to sample them all, a few must-tries include tlacoyos (corn masa stuffed with beans), tinga (shredded chicken with chilies, onions and tomatoes) and horchata (a lightly sweetened milky beverage made with rice milk and cinnamon).
All in all, Mexico City provides a vibrant – although at times overwhelming – medley of experiences for any level of traveller! Be sure to follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable journey and you’re sure to make wonderful memories that will last a lifetime!
Insider’s Guide to Mexico City: What You Need to Know
Mexico City has something for everyone, from its rich history to its unique cuisine, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring architecture. As you plan your trip, here are some insider tips to make your visit one to remember.
Local Attractions: Hidden Gems
Apart from the popular tourist destinations, Mexico City has several hidden gems worth exploring. If you are a fan of street art, then head to the bohemian district of Roma and Condesa to admire colorful murals and graffiti. Another hidden gem is the Xochimilco canals, where you can enjoy a boat ride through the floating gardens and sample traditional Mexican food.
For panoramic views of the city, climb the Torre Latinoamericana, a 44-story skyscraper that was the tallest in Latin America when it was built in the 1950s. From the top, you can see all the way to the mountains on clear days.
If you like history, then visit the Templo Mayor, which was once the center of the Aztec Empire. Here you can discover the remains of ancient Aztec pyramids, including the Templo Mayor itself, which was discovered in the 1970s during a construction project.
Dining Spots: Savor the Local Cuisine
Mexican cuisine is famous worldwide, and nothing beats trying it in its birthplace. Start with street food, which is not only delicious but also affordable. Some must-try dishes include tacos al pastor, tamales, and churros. But be cautious and avoid drinking tap water as it may have different bacteria that your body is not used to.
For a more upscale experience, try Pujol, one of the world’s top-rated restaurants. Chef Enrique Olvera combines traditional Mexican ingredients with modern cooking techniques, creating dishes such as Mole Madre and Chichilo.
Cultural Experiences: A Vibrant City Full of Traditions
Mexico City is a cultural hub where past and present collide. You can experience this vibrant culture through attending festivals, performances, and visiting museums.
One of the cultural highlights of Mexico City is the Day of the Dead festival, celebrated at the end of October. This celebrates the lives of the deceased with flower-covered altars and a procession to the cemetery. It is a colorful and lively event full of music, dancing, and food.
If you are interested in music, then head to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, one of the city’s most iconic buildings, to enjoy a classical music concert. If contemporary art is more your style, visit the Museo Universitario Arte Contemporaneo (MUAC), which features works by Mexican and international artists.
Local History: Stories From the Past
Mexico City has a rich and complex history, influenced by different cultures. For example, the Zocalo square was once the center of the Aztec Empire, and you can still see some ruins and artifacts today. In contrast, the Palacio de Bellas Artes was built in the early 20th century in an art nouveau style.
Another fascinating aspect of Mexico City’s history is the role of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum to learn about her life and art, and then go to the Palacio Nacional to see Diego Rivera’s murals, which depict the country’s history.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
If you want to experience something completely different, take a hot air balloon ride over the Pyramids of Teotihuacan. You’ll see the ancient ruins from a unique perspective, floating high above the ground. Or, for the ultimate adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping or skydiving in the city.
A more unique experience is visiting the Isla de las Munecas (Island of the Dolls), located just south of Mexico City. This creepy island is covered in dolls hanging from trees, fences, and buildings, which were placed there by the previous owner, who claimed they were haunted.
In conclusion, Mexico City is a city of contrasts that offers visitors a unique blend of old and new, tradition, and innovation. By exploring the hidden gems, savoring the local cuisine, experiencing the vibrant culture, learning about the rich history, and trying off-the-beaten-path activities, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience that you’ll want to share with others again and again.
