Mexico

Travel tips for Mexico: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. Recent 2025-2026 Reddit reports show cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and transit, but carrying pesos remains essential for street food, markets, and small vendors.

Try the food

Tacos al Pastor: Thinly sliced marinated pork is roasted on a vertical spit, then served on small corn tortillas with pineapple, cilantro, and onion.
Mole Poblano: A complex, rich, and dark sauce made from dozens of ingredients including chili peppers, spices, and chocolate, typically served over chicken or turkey.
Chiles en Nogada: Poblano chiles are stuffed with a mixture of meat and fruits, then covered in a creamy walnut sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds.

Say it in Spanish

Hello: Hola
Thank you: Gracias
Please: Por favor
Excuse me: Disculpe
How much is this?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
The bill please: La cuenta, por favor
Yes / No: Sí / No
Goodbye: Adiós

Essentials

Plugs: Type A / Type B
Voltage: 127V, 60Hz
Driving: Right side
Tap water: Avoid — buy bottled
Emergency: 911 (all services)
SIM tip: Telcel offers the most extensive nationwide coverage, and you can easily purchase a prepaid 'Amigo' SIM card at any OXXO convenience store or airport kiosk upon arrival.

Etiquette

Tipping 10% to 15% is expected in restaurants, and it is customary to leave a small tip of a few pesos for grocery baggers and gas station attendants.