Communication: Cancun

Local SIM cards and mobile providers

Options for staying connected via mobile networks.

Details

Providers: Telcel delivers the broadest coverage and often the top service in Mexico. AT&T Mexico and Movistar are other options.
Purchase: Acquire local SIM cards at Cancun International Airport, official provider stores in Downtown Cancun, and convenience stores.
Cost: A SIM card typically costs around $5-10 USD. Prepaid data packages vary, for example, 100-300 MXN for a few gigabytes.

Activation and Internet access

How to get your SIM working and find Wi-Fi.

Connectivity

Activation: A valid ID (your passport) is needed to register the SIM card. Store staff can assist.
Wi-Fi: Widely available and generally reliable throughout Cancun, especially at hotels, restaurants, and some public spaces.
Mobile Data: A local SIM card grants mobile internet access throughout the city and surrounding areas. Consider ESIMs from Airalo.

Internet access and Wi-Fi availability

Access to the internet is common.

Locations

Hotels/Resorts: Almost all feature free Wi-Fi for guests.
Restaurants/Cafes: Many present free Wi-Fi for customers.
Airport: Free Wi-Fi is often available for a limited time at Cancun International Airport. Portable WiFi devices are an option.

Postal services

Sending mail from Cancun.

Options

Correos de México: The national postal service with offices in Downtown Cancun.
International Mail: May be slow and less dependable than private courier services.
Private Couriers: DHL, FedEx, and UPS have offices in Cancun for more reliable and faster international shipping.

Language barriers and translation resources

Language Information

Official Language: Spanish.
English: Widely spoken in the Hotel Zone (resorts, international restaurants, major shops, tour operators). Less common in Downtown Cancun.
Translation Resources: Google Translate (download offline Spanish language pack) makes translation possible even without an internet connection.
Language learning platforms are a good way to prepare.

Phrases for Travelers

Basic Spanish Phrases: Learning a few phrases earns appreciation from locals. It conveys respect and assists with daily interactions.
¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWahn-toh KWEHS-tah): How much does it cost?
¿Dónde está...? (DOHN-deh es-TAH): Where is...?
La cuenta, por favor (lah KWEN-tah, por fah-VOR): The bill, please

Important phrases with pronunciation guides

Hola (OH-lah): Hello

Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs): Thank you

Por favor (por fah-VOR): Please

Sí (see): Yes / No (noh): No

Permiso (per-MEE-soh): Excuse me (to pass by)

Con permiso (kon per-MEE-soh): Excuse me (to interrupt or get attention)

Agua (AH-gwah): Water

Cerveza (ser-VEH-sah): Beer

Soy vegetariano/a (soy veh-heh-tah-RYAH-noh/nah): I am vegetarian (male/female)

Picante (pee-KAHN-teh): Spicy

Baño (BAHN-yoh): Bathroom

Ayuda (ah-YOO-dah): Help

Business Hours & Schedules

Business operating times may vary.

Banks

Generally open Monday-Friday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Some branches may open on Saturday mornings for limited hours.

Shops Malls/Hotel Zone

Typically open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, including weekends. Downtown/Local shops often open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Restaurants

Breakfast: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Lunch: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Dinner: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM or later.

Banking hours and ATM locations

Financial access points.

Access Information

Banking Hours: General hours are Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
ATMs: Available 24/7 at banks, supermarkets, shopping malls, convenience stores, and resorts. Use ATMs associated with reputable banks.
Pharmacies: Many feature extended hours, and some operate 24/7, especially in tourist areas.

Religious and public holidays affecting services

Anticipate holiday impacts.

Holiday Information

Public Holidays: January 1, February 5, March 21, May 1, September 16, November 20, December 1 (every 6 years), December 25.
Religious Holidays: Semana Santa (dates vary March/April), Dia de Muertos (November 1-2).
Impact: Public holidays bring closures for banks, government offices, and certain local businesses. Tourist services usually operate as normal, but transportation may see more activity.

Seasonal closures and limited schedules

Off-Peak Season

During the low season (July-October), some smaller businesses or tour operators may have reduced hours or close temporarily due to fewer tourist numbers or staff vacations.
Bars/Nightclubs: Typically open from 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM until 3:00 AM or 4:00 AM.
Smaller, family-run businesses may close for a mid-day break (approximately 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM). Many local shops close on Sundays.

Important Note

However, major resorts and attractions in Cancun stay open year-round.
Always confirm specific hours for attractions prior to visiting.
Confirm any special holiday hours during your visit.

Timely Information

Timely information on operating hours is available.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting customs

Polite interactions with locals.

Practices

General: A polite "Hola" (hello) and "Gracias" (thank you) go a long way.
Formal: Use "Buenos días," "Buenas tardes," and "Buenas noches" depending on the time of day.
Introductions: A handshake is common for men. Women may offer a light kiss on the cheek.

Appropriate attire for different settings

Dress suitably to show respect for local customs.

Dress Code

Resorts/Beaches: Casual, swimwear, and resort wear are acceptable. Some upscale restaurants have dress codes.
Downtown/Local Areas: Avoid wearing only swimwear or overly revealing clothing when off the beach. Respectful attire is appreciated.
Religious Sites: Shoulders and knees should be covered.

Dining and tipping practices

Mealtime manners and gratuity guidelines.

Dining Notes

Tipping: Generally, 10-15% in restaurants, 10-15% for bar service.
Table Manners: Keep your hands visible on the table. Meals are often social and unhurried.
"Provecho": Say "Buen Provecho" to people eating as you pass them or when starting your meal.

Photography permissions and restrictions

Capture memories respectfully.

Photography Etiquette

General: Generally acceptable to photograph public spaces and attractions.
People: Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Respect if they decline.
Religious/Sacred Sites: Photography might be restricted inside.

Taboos and sensitive topics

Topics to Avoid

Politics/Religion: Generally best to avoid discussing these with strangers.
Drugs: Do not participate in any drug-related activities. Laws are strict.
Displays of Affection: Public displays tend to be more reserved.

Money & Safety

Money: Stay discreet with cash. Avoid flashy displays of wealth.
Archaeological Sites: Drones are often restricted or need permits.
Military/Police: Refrain from photographing military or police personnel or installations.

Gender considerations and LGBTQ+ information

General Outlook

Gender: While a tourist destination, Mexico can be more traditional. Public displays of affection may elicit stares in very conservative local areas.
LGBTQ+: Cancun and the Riviera Maya hold a reputation for being very LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in the Hotel Zone and larger resorts.
Mexico has legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, and Quintana Roo recognizes it.

Safety Notes

Safety: Though generally safe, solo female travelers ought to take standard precautions, specifically when out alone at night.
Stay away from walking alone in unlit areas.
Many establishments serve LGBTQ+ travelers specifically.

Cultural Insight

Cultural insight is valuable.

Accessibility Information

Cancun improves accessibility, but some challenges exist outside major tourist areas.

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges

Varying levels of accessibility across the city.

Mobility Notes

Hotel Zone: Many newer resorts and large shopping malls incorporate accessibility features like ramps and accessible restrooms.
Downtown Cancun: Generally less accessible. Sidewalks are often narrow, uneven, and can be obstructed.
Public Transportation: Local buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Accessible attractions and transportation

Navigating points of interest and getting around.

Sightseeing & Travel

Attractions: Major archaeological sites like Chichen Itza and Tulum feature some accessible paths near main entrances. Navigating full sites can present a challenge.
Transportation: Private transfers or taxis are the most dependable options for accessible transport.
Some specialized tour operators present accessible tours with adapted vehicles and trained staff.

Services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments

Support for diverse needs.

Support Services

Limited specialized public services are present.
Larger resorts and international hotel chains may offer some accommodations or services. Direct contact with them in advance is advisable.
Bringing a companion or utilizing specialized travel agencies that cater to these needs can be beneficial.

Resources and organizations providing accessibility information

Where to find more information.

Resources

Contact individual resorts or tour operators directly to inquire about specific accessibility features.
Online forums and travel blogs dedicated to accessible travel deliver first-hand accounts.
Specialized accessible travel agencies assist in planning a suitable itinerary.

Airport Services

Airport Lounge Access

Priority Pass presents frequent travelers with independent airport lounge access globally.

Flight Compensation

Compensair is a service where customers receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Accessibility Note

For more specific details, reaching out to individual locations or service providers prior to your visit is helpful.

Communication