Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
Yes! Mexico is a popular tourist destination and has been for a long time. Most travelers do not run into any trouble. There are, however, areas that experience high levels of violent crime as a result of lawlessness and drug trafficking. That said, Gusto México would never take you anywhere unless we were convinced it was safe!
Do I need a visa?
All tourists traveling to Mexico need a permit, but not all need a visa. If you are visiting from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, you do not need a visa and can obtain a tourism permit upon arrival.
Can I drink the water?
We do not recommend drinking the tap water in Mexico. Also for environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and bring a reusable water bottle or canteen for filtered water instead. We will show you at each location where you can get filtered water! It’s also advisable to wash and peel any fruits and vegetables before eating them.
Do I need to bring foreign currency? Are credit cards accepted?
It is highly recommended to bring pesos with you to use at local restaurants, markets or souvenir shops, for gratuity, etc. At all accommodations, they accept cash and credit cards. Our best recommendation is to exchange money at your local bank, which will take a couple of weeks, but they will give you the best exchange rate. You can also do this at the airport. It is always better to travel with local currency just in case! And remember, all the places with real character and the best local food tend to be cash only!
Is it custom to tip?
Many service workers earn low wages and rely on tips to make a decent living. We recommend tipping 15-20% at restaurants and for any guides, and a few dollars per day for housekeepers, people you buy from in the street or who are selling artisans, and hotel bartenders and employees.
What airport do
I fly into?
Each experience will be located just a short drive away from a major international airport. The majority of them will be serviced by a number of international airlines including American, Continental, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Aeromexico, Southwest and United, just to name a few. Please be aware that roundtrip transportation to and from the hotel is included in your package. Upon arrival, your shuttle or vehicle will be waiting for you with your name and hotel info.
Do I need travel insurance?
This is completely up to you, but we always recommend YES. Whether due to medical reasons, extreme weather, local events, etc. travel insurance can be a financial blessing and life saver. Even if you don't think it makes sense to buy travel insurance for your trip, we recommend familiarizing yourself with policies and with your credit card travel benefits. Travelex, Travel Guard, and HeyMondo are good companies to consider and get quotes from. If you purchase travel insurance, you should consider include “cancel for any reason” with your policy, as well as medical coverage. This can be particularly helpful if a positive Covid test result* is acquired while abroad.
What are my payment options?
A non-refundable deposit is due to reserve your spot. Final payments must be made one month before the tour departure date. We accept all major credit cards, PayPal, and Venmo. For paying with Venmo, you can receive $50 off! Use @KayleeAnne to send the deposit or payment, along with your email address. You will see our logo in the profile. Upon all payments, we will send you a confirmation email. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to keep updated on any deals and discounts we are having!
What should I bring?
Comfortable, light clothes for warm weather, yoga and day activities. Dresses and shorts are a must in the heat!
Comfortable shoes or sandals, as well as shoes you don’t mind getting dirty and exploring in!
Bathing suit!
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, anything you can think of to cover and protect yourself from the sun!
There is purified bottled water at all accommodations, but it’s best to bring your own canteen to reduce plastic!
Bug spray or repellent!
Passport, travel documents, tickets, etc. Make copies of them and email them to yourself in case they are lost or stolen. Leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home. Make sure that your passport is valid for at least 3 months after your planned travel and that you have at least one blank page available!
Covid-19 masks!
Travel insurance!
What happens if I test positive for Covid-19?
*As of July 12, 2022, the U.S. does not require U.S. citizens to provide proof of a negative Covid test prior to returning to the country. If you are traveling to another country or if rules and regulations are to change for Mexico again and you should test positive, here are some steps to take:
Don’t panic! Cases like this happen every day and hotels are ready and constantly updating their procedures for this very circumstance.
Coordinate isolation accommodation with the hotel. Most hotels will give you the option to isolate in your room between 5-10 days, or until you test negative, completely free or at a reduced rate. Some will even give you the option to transfer to a different hotel that specializes in isolation. The hotel staff will bring you meals and water and make sure you have everything you need while you isolate.
Call your airline and postpone your flight home. Most airlines are offering no-fee cancelations within 24-2 hours before flights to accommodate the ever-changing needs of passengers.
Contact your travel insurance provider. In the case that the hotel or airline is not covering your changes, your travel insurance likely will, providing you got a Covid policy.
Get a negative test to fly home. Re-testing at the hotel until you receive a negative test is the best way to return home.
If you need medical care, don’t worry, Mexico has very advanced medical care. Should you require medical attention during your isolation period, the country has wonderful doctors and clinics that are prepared and qualified to treat Covid-19. Your hotel or travel insurance provider will be able to direct you to the best health care professional in your area.
