Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
The main mobile providers in Mexico are Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar. Telcel generally has the widest coverage, especially outside major urban centers. You can purchase local SIM cards at official provider stores, large supermarkets, or convenience stores like OXXO (for top-ups). Your mobile phone needs unlocking before travel. Local SIM cards and data plans typically present low costs, including data, calls, and texts.
Wi-Fi stands widely available and often free in hotels, most restaurants, cafes, and some public areas in Chetumal. With a local SIM card, mobile data coverage is generally reliable within Chetumal and surrounding towns. This permits navigation, communication, and information access while on the move.
The Mexican postal service (Correos de México) is present, but international mail can progress slowly. For sending packages or important documents internationally, major courier services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS present more reliable and faster choices, though at a higher cost.
Spanish serves as the official language. While some hotel staff and those in tourist-oriented businesses may speak English, it sees less wide usage in Chetumal compared to more tourist-heavy resorts further north. Having a translation app, like Google Translate, with offline capabilities comes in handy.
Stay connected with an eSIM from Airalo or a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi. Improve your Spanish with Rosetta Stone.
Shops typically open from 9 AM to 8 PM. Smaller, independent businesses may observe a midday siesta, often closing between 2 PM and 4 PM. Larger stores and supermarkets usually stay open all day.
Lunch service typically progresses from 1 PM to 5 PM, with dinner service beginning around 7 PM or 8 PM and stretching until 11 PM or later. Some cafes open earlier for breakfast.
Banks generally open from 9 AM to 4 PM on weekdays. Some branches may feature shorter hours on Saturdays. Banks generally close on Sundays. ATMs present 24/7 access at banks, larger supermarkets, and major hotels.
Banks, government offices, and some businesses will close on public holidays. Public transportation may operate on reduced schedules. Major holidays include New Year's Day, Constitution Day, Benito Juárez's Birthday, Labor Day, Independence Day, Revolution Day, and Christmas Day.
Easter (Semana Santa) is a significant religious holiday in Mexico. Many Mexicans travel during this week, which can lead to crowded buses and higher prices for travel and accommodation. Some businesses may close or feature reduced hours. Seasonal closures are less common in Chetumal compared to resort towns, but some smaller businesses might close briefly during the low season (e.g., September) or for owner vacations.
Awareness of business hours and holiday schedules prevents inconvenience. Checking specific operation times for attractions and restaurants, especially during holidays, comes recommended.
Interacting respectfully with Chetumal’s local culture enriches your experience and shows appreciation for your hosts.
For formal settings, use "Buenos días" (Good morning), "Buenas tardes" (Good afternoon), or "Buenas noches" (Good evening). "Hola" (Hello) serves for casual interactions. Handshakes are common greetings between acquaintances. Close friends and family members may greet with a kiss on the cheek.
Generally, casual attire stands acceptable. However, showing deference in specific settings holds importance. When visiting churches or more traditional local areas, covering shoulders and knees is appropriate. Swimwear belongs only at beaches and pools, not for walking around the city.
Tipping stands customary in Mexico. Refer to specific local guides for detailed guidelines on dining customs and tipping expectations in restaurants and other services. Generally, a tip of 10-15% of the bill value is common for good service in restaurants.
It is polite to seek permission before taking photos of individuals, especially children. Some museums or archaeological sites may prohibit flash photography or impose a small fee for video cameras. Always honor privacy and posted signs.
Chetumal's infrastructure is generally not well-equipped for travelers with mobility challenges. Sidewalks may be uneven, narrow, or obstructed. Ramps are not universally available. Major museums may feature some accessible pathways, but older buildings or archaeological sites often do not. Public buses do not feature accessibility for wheelchairs. Taxis are an option, though vehicles are not specially equipped. Limited specialized services appear for travelers with visual or hearing impairments. Planning ahead and confirming accessibility directly with accommodations and attractions is highly advisable.
