Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Comprehensive planning cultivates a smoother journey.
Organize your pre-trip activities into manageable phases.
Check passport validity (6+ months beyond departure). Research visa requirements and begin the application if needed.
Book international flights early, especially for peak season. Secure major accommodations like hotels or haciendas.
Schedule a travel doctor visit. Discuss recommended vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid) and specific health precautions.
Book domestic flights or long-distance ADO bus tickets if planned.
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance. Begin learning basic Spanish phrases using apps or phrasebooks.
Arrange mandatory Mexican car insurance if renting a vehicle for your trip.
Reconfirm all reservations. Create physical and digital copies of documents (passport, FMM, visa if applicable).
Assemble a basic first aid kit and pack prescription medications. Plan for a local SIM card or international roaming.
Notify bank/credit card companies of travel dates. Obtain some Mexican Pesos. Secure your home before leaving.
Certain reservations benefit from early arrangement.
Background information deepens your journey.
A smooth departure starts with tasks at home.
If flying out of Cancun (CUN), pay the Quintana Roo state tourism tax online (Visitax). Print or save proof of payment for your departure.
The first few hours in a new country can feel overwhelming. A checklist navigates initial steps.
Proceed to immigration. Present your passport and your completed FMM form. Make certain the immigration officer stamps your FMM with the authorized length of stay. Keep this stamped portion safe.
Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.
Proceed through customs. You may need to press a button for a red (inspect) or green (pass) light.
Acquire local currency from an ATM (generally yielding better rates) or a reputable exchange office. Airport exchange counters are often less favorable.
Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Telcel) if you did not arrange international roaming. This secures connectivity for navigation and communication.
Head directly to your accommodation following your pre-arranged transport or official taxi stand guidelines.
Once settled, take a short walk around your immediate surroundings to locate local shops, restaurants.
Pinpoint the nearest ATM or bank branch for future withdrawals.
Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate needs (e.g., taxi fare, quick snack).
Use ATMs for larger withdrawals, typically offering better exchange rates. Purchase bottled water from a convenience store like OXXO.
Follow your pre-planned arrangements, whether private shuttle or ADO bus.
If using a taxi, confirm the fare before getting in. Know which terminal or stop is closest to your hotel if using ADO.
Use ATMs from major banks for local currency. They generally offer better exchange rates than airport exchange counters. Remain vigilant for card skimmers.
Make certain of a smooth exit from Mexico by completing a few steps before heading to the airport.
Strategic airport arrival times.
Before you leave your hotel for the airport, double-check that you have your FMM card.
It is a small piece of paper, but its absence causes significant delays and potential fines at departure.
