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mexico city guide
Embarking on a journey to Mexico City, a sprawling metropolis brimming with history, culture, and culinary delights, promises an adventure like no other, but there’s a few things you should know before traveling to Mexico City.
From navigating the nuances of local etiquette to exploring the wonders beyond the city’s limits, this guide is designed to arm you with essential insights for your first time traveling to Mexico City. So before you pack your bags and set off to explore the heart of Mexico, here are the crucial things every traveler should know about Mexico City.
Indulge in the Street Food with Care
Mexico City’s street food is not to be missed, offering a delectable window into its culinary culture. However, it’s crucial to choose wisely to ensure a pleasant experience.
Always check reviews of street food stalls and eat where you see many locals — a sign of quality and safety. Observe the stall’s cleanliness and ensure that the cook isn’t handling both the food and money directly.
Eating at places with high turnover means the food is fresh. Additionally, packing Pepto-Bismol tablets can be a lifesaver for any unexpected mild stomach troubles.
Plan Museum Visits in Advance
To avoid missing out, be aware that many of Mexico City’s museums, including the highly popular Frida Kahlo Museum, require advance booking.
Visiting the gems that don’t require advance booking is best experienced early in the day, but securing a spot ahead of time is becoming increasingly necessary so always check before going.
If you do find that the tickets are sold out on the musuem’s websites, you can always check Viator or Get Your Guide as they usually have a limited amount of “skip the line” tickets available.
Brush Up on Your Spanish
While you’ll find English speakers in tourist areas, English isn’t always a given throughout the city. It’s essential to have at least “restaurant Spanish” to navigate menus, ask for recommendations, or address dietary needs. Consider using apps like Babbel in the weeks leading up to your visit to build a basic vocabulary. This effort not only enriches your travel experience but also helps in connecting more authentically with locals.
Adjusting to the Altitude
Mexico City’s high altitude at over 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) can significantly impact newcomers. You may feel unusually tired during your first couple of days due to the altitude change. This elevation can also lead to dehydration faster than you might expect, so it’s crucial to drink plenty of water — always opt for filtered or bottled water, as the tap water is not safe to drink.
Conserve water
Mexico City faces significant water shortage issues, making it essential for visitors to be conscious of their water usage. When staying in hotels, taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, and reusing towels can all make a difference. Your efforts to use water sparingly and avoid wastage not only respect local resources but also contribute to the conservation of this vital asset for the city and its residents.
Choose Safe Transportation
For getting around Mexico City, Uber is a highly recommended option for its convenience and safety, particularly for women traveling alone. While taxis are commonly used, the safety and reliability of ride-sharing services offer peace of mind, especially at night or when navigating unfamiliar areas. This advice is especially pertinent for solo female travelers, as it adds an extra layer of security to your travel experience.
Stay in a Central Neighborhood & Neighborhoods to Avoid
While neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco are renowned for their safety, charm, cafes, and cultural sites, it’s also important to be aware of areas that are less recommended for tourists due to safety concerns.
Visitors are advised to be cautious and, should avoid areas such as Tepito, Doctores, and certain parts of Iztapalapa, especially after dark. Researching and staying informed about the areas you plan to visit can significantly enhance your safety and overall experience in Mexico City.
Respect Local Etiquette
Immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Mexico City also means embracing its etiquette with open arms.
A simple “buenos días” in the morning or “buenas tardes” after noon can significantly enrich interactions, reflecting respect and warmth towards the locals.
Additionally, the city’s rich street life is incredibly photogenic, but always seek consent before capturing images of people. This consideration not only respects personal boundaries but also fosters a mutual respect between you and the subjects of your photography, enhancing your connection to the city’s culture.
Explore Beyond the City
Mexico City, with its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, is just the beginning of your adventure. Dedicating a day or two to explore its surroundings can unveil worlds apart from the urban hustle.
The ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán, just a short drive away, offer a glimpse into Mexico’s storied past, while the tranquil canals of Xochimilco provide a colorful and peaceful escape on traditional trajineras.
These excursions not only complement your city experience but also deepen your appreciation of the region’s historical and cultural diversity.
Prepare for the Weather
Be Prepared for the Weather: The weather in Mexico City can indeed be a box of surprises, with sunny mornings quickly giving way to cooler evenings. To navigate this climate with ease, always carry a lightweight jacket, which will serve you well against the city’s unpredictable temperatures.
Moreover, the high altitude and open skies mean the sun can be deceptively strong, making sunscreen an essential item in your daily pack.
