Mexico Travel Information

General

North American stereotypes about security concerns in Mexico are usually overblown and a result of Hollywood movie and TV hype. You most likely will not meet or see any “bandidos” in Chiapas (not even the insulting Madison Avenue “Frito Bandido.”) You will be very secure on airlines, airports and in large establishments like hotels, restaurants and banks. One exception however - do not leave the safe airport terminal in Mexico City . You probably will feel much more secure in Chiapas that at the terrorist targets in American or European cities. Do not be alarmed by the common appearance of police or private security guards on the streets or in bank lobbies armed with flack jackets, helmets and M-16 or AK-47 semiautomatic rifles. Civil War - Zapatistas: Rumors of ongoing civil war in Chiapas between the Mexican Army and the indigenous Zapatistas are often exaggerated and persist as an American urban legend (like Mexicans peeing in Corona ). Chiapas is the fifth most safe state among the 32 Mexican states. Although there were unfortunate incidences prior to 1995, there is a peace treaty with the Zapatistas now in effect with a strong army presence enforcing it. You can make your own opinions regarding the issues but there is less worry for tourists now because the Zapatistas are primarily engaged in political efforts similar to those of the American Indian Movement. Travel by North Americans alone in Zapatista territory off the main highways, however, is still not recommended.

Getting Around

Rental Cars: Here's where you can face an unpleasant surprise if you booked a rental car at the airport through Travelocity or other web sites. You may reserve an intermediate size car from Hertz for $47 per day but upon arrival at the airport in Tuxtla Gutierrez , the price may be $86 / day which now includes “airport fees and taxes.” With the local assistance, you can take a cab into the city and they arranged a rental through the local Budget agency for about $65 / day (unlimited mileage) including all taxes and insurance. Gas costs about the same as the inflated prices in San Francisco , CA . When you fill up at state owned Pemex stations, be sure the attendant resets the pump back to zero before filling your car.

Taxis: The average fare from the airport to downtown is about 60 Pesos (~$6 USD). Without local help, taxi drivers at the airport may try to charge you more. Cabs are plentiful in the Capital City and can be hailed like in New York or San Francisco . It is helpful to ask the driver how much the fare will be to your destination prior to getting in the taxi. English is not as common as in the other tourist destinations so you may want to learn some Spanish phrases including how to ask the driver to write the fare down for you on a piece of paper (“escribelo, por favor”).

Driving: Traffic signs and speed limits are strictly enforced. Drinking or using drugs and driving carry severe penalties. Watch out for “topes,” or speed bumps, officially or nonofficially constructed in small villages to slow down traffic. Avoid driving at night, especially off the main highways. Heavy fog is often common at night. Like in Costa Rica , passing slow trucks on winding, narrow mountain roads is tempting but very dangerous if there is a solid line in your land (no passing). Watch for oncoming drivers and drivers behind you ignoring this traffic law. Trucks will often pull over or slow down to wave you by when they think it is safe for you to pass but still be careful.

Food

In addition to the traditional Mexican fare of tacos, beans and tortillas, Chiapas offers several wonderful specialties including stewed lamb or baked chicken with “mole,” a spicy sauce made with chilies and usually chocolate. Street vendors sell delicious food, especially hot buttered corn. There are vegetarian restaurants and menus in the cities. You can take it easy on your North American stomach by avoiding or cutting down on very spicy condiments and salsa (“sin picante, por favor”). For breakfast, some restaurants offer “Americano”style scrambled eggs with ham or bacon, toast and delicious local coffee. If you really have a Big Mac attack, Tuxtla Gutierrez has McDonalds as well as Burger King, KFC and Dominos Pizza. Outside the city, there are some amusing American fast food chain knock-offs with “hamburguesas” covered in jalapeños. Part of the total Chiapas experience, however, is enjoying their savory local dishes that are especially good at family owned roadside restaurants along the way.

Tipping

Again, a matter of personal choice, 15% tips are customary for good service. Drivers and tour guides work mostly for tips so please don't be stingy with them. You may need some two Peso coins handy to tip an occasional restroom attendant.

Shopping

Chiapas is shopper's delight from artisans offering pre-hispanic fabrics, pottery, amber, carved wood, baskets, metal works, jewelry and toys; to the large modern mall in Tuxtla Gutierrez . There is a Sam's Club (a Walmart affiliate) in Tuxtla Gutierrez with prices comparable to those in the US . Specialty items can be found in other American chain stores like Office Depot. Remember that, other than in pharmacies, markets, chain stores or the malls, prices may be negotiable. Don't be afraid to make a lower counter offer and eventually reach a compromise in the middle somewhere. Unfortunately, many of the locals believe that all North Americans are wealthy and, in the entrepreneurial spirit, may try to charge you more for merchandise, lodging and transportation than the locals pay. The money you invest in local assistance during your trip will be more than recovered in dealing with this colorful cultural quirk

Photography

It is important that you respect the customs and ceremonies of indigenous people and not offend or interrupt them by taking pictures. When in doubt, always try to ask for permission before taking photos. There are plenty of photo opportunities and people willing to be in photos so don't pay for this privilege.

Festivals and Parades

Mexicans love festivals and parades and enjoy them often. In Palenque , the children and young people put on a huge parade celebrating Mexico 's independence. In Tuxtla Gutierrez , we saw a free traditional dance festival and show in a city park. In Marimba park in the city, large crowds gather in the cooling night air for live music

If you want to know more about Mexico's culture regarding police, beggars, common misconceptions or even just some basic knowledge about simple things such as waiting in line, polite phrases and personal safety, click here.

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