Azcapotzalco Mexico City, Mexico Travel Guide
Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar are the main carriers in Mexico. Telcel generally has the best coverage. Purchase a local SIM card at official carrier stores, OXXO convenience stores, or by the airport. You will need an unlocked phone and your passport. Prepaid plans are affordable.
Spanish is the official language of Mexico. While English is spoken in major tourist areas and by hotel staff in central Mexico City, it is less common in Azcapotzalco, which is a more local, residential borough.
Learning a few phrases makes a significant difference in daily interactions.
These phrases assist when navigating or when you need more information.
Download the Google Translate app and its offline Spanish language pack before your trip. This enables translating phrases without an internet connection, incredibly useful for daily interactions. Carry a small phrasebook. Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.
Business hours vary, and public holidays may alter schedules.
Generally open Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 8 PM. Smaller shops may close for a mid-afternoon siesta (2-4 PM).
Typically operate Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM. Some branches may open Saturday mornings.
Lunch (main meal) 1 PM to 4 PM. Dinner 7 PM to 11 PM. Casual eateries and street food stalls open earlier and stay open later.
Museums often operate Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM, most closed on Mondays. Always check specific museum hours before you go to.
Official public holidays and religious holidays can alter business and service schedules significantly. Plan accordingly for transit and dining.
Plan major visits to museums for Tuesday through Sunday to avoid Monday closures. When traveling during a public or religious holiday, check opening hours for attractions and restaurants in advance. Anticipate potential public transport schedule changes.
Mexicans generally express warmth and politeness. A small effort in observing customs fosters positive interactions.
Handshakes are common for introductions. Close friends and family may use a light cheek kiss (women-women or women-men). Greet people when entering a shop or restaurant: Buenos días, Buenas tardes, Buenas noches. Saying Permiso (excuse me) when passing someone in a crowd shows politeness.
Generally, attire is casual for sightseeing. For visiting churches or religious sites, modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is recommended as a sign of respect. Dressy casual for upscale restaurants. Photography is generally permitted in public spaces.
Avoid discussions about politics (especially US-Mexico relations) or religion unless initiated by locals and approached with sensitivity. Drug-related topics are also sensitive and best avoided.
Mexico City is generally progressive and tolerant, specifically in the city center like Roma and Condesa. Azcapotzalco, being a more conventional and residential borough, may be slightly more conservative but is generally accepting.
Politeness and patience are highly valued. A simple "por favor" (please) and "gracias" (thank you) in Spanish receive good responses. Do not interrupt someone speaking; allow them to finish.
Mexico City actively develops infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges, but bumpy pavements and older buildings present considerations.
The Metrobús system, with dedicated lanes and level boarding, typically offers more accessibility than older Metro stations. Some newer Train stations have elevators and wheelchair ramps. Major museums often provide ramps and elevators, making exhibits accessible.
Historic sites, specifically those with uneven terrain or numerous steps, sometimes present difficulties. Services for travelers with disabilities have limits, but awareness is growing.
Airport services support comfortable journeys for all travelers, including those with specific needs or travel disruptions.
While Azcapotzalco may not have assigned accessibility services for tourists, the general improvements in Mexico City can benefit visitors to the borough.
Priority Pass offers independent airport lounge access globally. For flight disruptions, Compensair assists with compensation.
