Travel tips

Currency
The peso is Mexico’s offical currency, but almost all purchases can be paid in US dollars.
There are currency exchanges in the Hotel Zone and downtown, and you can also exchange currency in the hotels and banks.

Language
The official language is Spanish, but English is spoken in most of the touristic establisments.

Weather
With 200 sunny days throughout the year, the temperature can vary from 85/100 farenheit (20/40 celcious), and humidity remains 90% throughout the year.

Beaches
All beaches are federal property and open to everyone. The sand is white and fine and the sea is turquiose. Use extra caution at beaches located on the open sea because of strong waves and undertow.

Clothes
Casual clothing is used. It is not necessary to wear any formal suit or tie unless you have an event where required. A luxurios dinner at a restaurant requires semi-formal attire. Bathing suits are not premitted in shopping centers, discos and restaurants.

Tipping and Taxes
Your watier will only bring your check when you request it. Tips range from 10% to 20% of the total bill. A 10% IVA (VAT) tax is applied to all products and services.

Electricity
The standard electricicy voltage is 110 volts AC/60 cycles, as in the United States. Three phase connectors are not available everywhere, so it is recommended to bring an adapter in case you need it.

Drinking Water
The infrastruture of the Mexican Caribbean hotels has special facilities for a purifying water system. And every hotel has its own water filters. You can also ask for purified bottled water at any touristic establishement.