When is the best time to travel to Mexico?

You can travel to Mexico throughout the whole year. Despite regional differences in weather, the best time to visit Mexico is mid-September through mid-May.
As a traveller you are probably a bit worried about the rainy season spoiling the pleasure of your travel.
First of all, during the rainy season in Mexico it seldom rains during the day; it mainly rains during the night. The rain falls down as short, strong showers and it hardly cools down the country: it remains warm.

What public holidays are celebrated in Mexico?

*Most representative holidays.

** The dates of the Holy Week differ each year due to the celebration of Easter, which marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Easter is one of the Catholic liturgical calendar's 'movable feasts,' or celebrations that do not have a fixed date on the Gregorian calendar. Wherever Easter Sunday is on the calendar, the 6 days that precede it make up the Holy Week.

What is the climate like?

In Mexico, the climate varies according to altitude and season. Coastal areas and lowlands are hot and steamy with high humidity, while the central areas are temperate even in winter. The climate of the inland highlands is mostly mild, but sharp changes in temperature can occur between day and night. The cold lands lie above 2000m (6600ft). Rainfall varies greatly from region to region. Only the Sierra Madre Oriental, the Isthmus of Tehuantepec and the state of Chiapas in the far south receive any appreciable amount of rain during the year, with the wet season running between June and September. All other areas have mild rainy seasons, while the northern and central areas of the central plateau are dry and arid. There is some snow in the north in winter. The dry season runs from October to May.

What type of food is typical of Mexico?

Mexican food is always full of flavor!

Mexico is world renowned for its cuisine. The abundance of regional dishes, including fresh and great variety of fruits, meats, seafood, vegetables, flowers, cheeses, wines and liquors makes it an gastronomic paradise.

Mexican cuisine is as complex as other ancient cuisines, such as those of China and Japan, with techniques and skills developed over thousands of years of history. It is created mostly with ingredients native to Mexico, as well as those brought over by the Spanish conquistadors, with some new influences since then. In addition to staples, such as corn and chile peppers, native ingredients include tomatoes, squashes, avocados, cocoa and vanilla, as well as ingredients not generally used in other cuisines, such as edible flowers, vegetables like huauzontle and papaloquelite, or small criollo avocados, whose skin is edible.

Due to Mexico's varying climate and the ethnic differences around the country, each region has created their own special cuisine.

Do tour rates include international flights?

Tour rates do not include international flights. We find that it is usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately, and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. Alternatively, we can help you, please send us an email to service@thegoldenmaya.com with your flight parameters.

What costs should I calculate per day (food & drinks)?

Be aware that the price level in Mexico is approximately 40% lower than in Europe. In other words: food and drinks cost about half the price. A guide for personal meal expenses could be 120 to 340 CNY Yuan, per person per day.  The exact amount you spend per day depends on your drinking and eating habits, and the type of restaurants you prefer.

What immunizations or vaccines are required in Mexico?

No immunizations are currently required for visiting Mexico. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended. For the most current information, please consult your doctor.

What are the tour guides/leaders like?

All of our tour guides/leaders are certificated by the SECTUR (the national institute of Tourism in México. We have some guides/leaders of chinese origin and some that are fluent in Mandarin-Chinese. They are from the local areas where they guide and are among the very best guides available in each region. Our tour guides/leaders treat will make your tours exceptional.

Is tipping customary in Mexico?

Tips are not required on any of our tours. However, tipping is expected in most parts of Mexico. Service workers typically earn a low wage and rely on tips to earn a decent living. Add 10-15% to restaurant bills (if service charge is not already included), and leave a few Dollars or Yuan for housekeepers, bell boys, bartenders and guides.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Mexico?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in tourist shopping, restaurants, and hotels. But are less commonly accepted by smaller a vendor, who sells crafts in the street. In almost all cities in Mexico does UBER and DIDI exist, but the local taxis only accept cash. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases or some emergency.

Do I need a VISA/Passport for Mexico?

All travelers will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after they depart Mexico.

All chinese citizens require a Mexican VISA to enter Mexico. Visa for tourist: If you have a valid and current visa from the United States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom or one of the countries that make up the Schengen Area1; or permanent residence in Colombia, Chile or Peru, you do not require Mexican visa and will be able to remain in the country for up to 180 days.

Fore more information visit the website of the Mexican embassy in China:

https://embamex2.sre.gob.mx/china

What is the local currency and exchange rate?

The local currency is the Mexican Peso MXP. In most of the touristic places you can pay also with USD dollars. Golden Maya is based on the following currency converter:

https://www.xe.com/es/currencyconverter/

How safe is Mexico?

Comfort and safety during your Mexico vacation is a primary focus.

Though we have not had any safety concerns on our tours, crime can be a serious problem throughout certain parts of Mexico. Travelers should follow the advice of hotel staff and tour leaders as well as taking common sense precautions. Hotels can store your valuables in a safe if desired. That said, most travelers visit Mexico without incident.

Can I extend my stay?

Absolutely! Extra days can be arranged. It can be before or after tour days planned. Let us know how you would like to customize your trip and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Mexico?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Mexico, especially in large cities. Coverage may not be available in more remote areas, especially if travelling in mountainous regions. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Mexico. AT&T and Telcel are the main cellular companies in the country. Check your covergae with your phone provider.

Do I need an electrical adapter?

Electricity in Mexico is 110 volts, the same as the US. Visitors from outside of the US should bring an adapter. Plugs are either two flat prongs or two flat prongs with an additional round grounding pin.

What is the internet access like in Mexico?

Internet access is easily found in Mexico’s large cities, metropolitan areas and places frequented by tourists, but less so in more remote areas.

What are the toilets like in Mexico?

It's likely that you will encounter different types of toilets while travelling in Mexico. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes.

Can I drink the water in Mexico?

Drinking bottled water is recommended in Mexico. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Is travel insurance recommended before travelling in Mexico?

Absolutely!!! We work with a travel insurance company that provides reasonably priced insurance for trip cancellation, medical expenses, medical evacuation, lost bags, etc. Let us know if you’re interested and we can help you.