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Oaxaca Travel Resources

Oaxaca Travel Resources

Oaxaca Oaxaca State, Mexico Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • Google Maps:

    Necessary for navigation, whether walking, using public transport, or driving. Download offline maps.

  • Google Translate:

    For real-time translation. Download the offline Spanish pack before your trip.

  • WhatsApp:

    This app aids communication with tour operators, hotels, and locals. It is widely used in Mexico.

  • Booking.com / Airbnb:

    For researching and booking accommodation.

  • XE Currency Converter:

    For quick and accurate currency conversions between Mexican Pesos and your home currency.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

  • Travel.state.gov (US Department of State):

    For current travel advisories and entry requirements for U.S. Citizens.

  • Gov.uk (UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office):

    For UK citizens' travel advice.

  • Official Tourism Websites:

    For general information, official events, and cultural insights.

  • ADO.com.mx:

    For bus tickets and schedules for long-distance travel within Mexico.

  • Social Media:

    Search for "Oaxaca tourism" or "Oaxaca food" on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter).

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

Traditional print materials may hold in-depth information and offline access.

Books on Oaxaca

Dive into Oaxaca's history, culture, and cuisine through literature.

Local Publications

Find free local tourist magazines or newspapers for current events and recommendations.

Exhibition listings Restaurant recommendations

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers & Contacts

  • General Emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 911 (nationwide).
  • Your Country's Embassy/Consulate: Keep these numbers saved.
  • Hospital locations: Hospital Civil, Hospital General Dr. Juan C. García, Hospital Reforma.
  • Pharmacies: Farmacias Similares, Farmacias del Ahorro, and Farmacias Guadalajara are widespread.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Passport: Report the loss to local police for a police report.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate immediately.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Contact your bank immediately to cancel any lost cards.
  • FMM Form: Losing it may result in delays and fines upon departure.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • These have visual and narrative context.
  • Search for films or series covering Mexican culture.
  • Many travel bloggers and YouTubers also create content about Oaxaca.
  • They give visual guides and personal recommendations.

Music & Art

  • Seek out traditional Oaxacan music, like "jarabes" and "sones."
  • Listen to contemporary Mexican music.
  • Research Oaxacan artists like Francisco Toledo, Rufino Tamayo.
  • Experience the region's artistic scene.

Language Learning

  • Utilize apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Pimsleur.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases before your trip.
  • Consider enrolling in a Spanish language school for immersion.
  • Daily interactions strengthen language skills.

Pre-Trip Checklist cont.

Essential Preparations cont.

Home Preparations

  • Notify Loved Ones:

    Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary and contact details.

  • Household Arrangements:

    Arrange for mail, pets, plants, and home security during your absence.

  • Bill Payments:

    Pay any bills that will be due during your trip.

Pre-Trip Research

  • Cultural Immersion:

    Read about Oaxacan history, culture, and cuisine to enrich your experience.

  • Local Etiquette:

    Familiarize yourself with local etiquette and safety tips.

  • Itinerary Building:

    Identify must-see attractions and potential day trips to build your itinerary.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir Considerations

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.

Luggage Weight

Consider weight limits for your luggage to avoid excess baggage fees.

Shipping Items

If you plan to ship items, arrange with a reliable courier service.

Return Trip Preparation

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Airport: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • Bus Terminal: Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Allow extra time for traffic, especially during peak hours.
  • Confirm your flight or bus departure times the day before.

Document Check

  • Ensure your FMM form is ready for surrender at immigration.
  • Losing it may result in delays and fines upon departure.
  • Reconfirm any airport transfers you have arranged.
  • A smooth departure completes your journey.

Digital Safety Tips

Document Copies

  • Take photos of your passport, FMM card, and flight itinerary.
  • Store them on your phone for easy access.
  • Save copies in a cloud service as well.
  • This is beneficial if you lose physical copies.

Power & Connectivity

  • Charge all your electronics before departure.
  • Consider bringing a portable power bank.
  • An international power adapter might be needed.
  • A Compact first aid kit proves useful.

Stay Connected

Carry a power bank for your phone. You will use your phone frequently for navigation, photos, and translation, and a portable charger keeps you connected.