£1 MX$23.79
Today
9:54 pm
-6h from you
Travel warning
There is significant violence between criminal gangs in many parts of the country, including clashes that have happened in major tourist areas like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta.
Weather in Mexico
Mexico
22°
Partly cloudy
Wed
7
22
Thu
7
23
Fri
7
23
Sat
6
19
Sun
6
20
SPF level in Mexico
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Mexico
Language in Mexico
Tipping in Mexico
Tipping is customary in Mexico for various services. While not legally required, it's a significant part of service industry workers' income. Locals generally tip, and tourists are expected to do the same.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill. Higher for exceptional service.
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill. Bartenders often receive a higher tip for special cocktails.
Taxi
10-15% of the fare. Rounding up is also common for shorter trips.
Hotel Porter
10-20 MXN per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
20-50 MXN per night, left daily.
Tour Guide
10-20% of the tour cost, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
Safety in Mexico
Tips for British travellers
Mexico is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Take care withdrawing money from ATMs and avoid doing so at night or in isolated locations.
Be wary of criminals posing as police officers who may try to fine you without cause, and do not hand over money or your passport.
Do not leave your food or drinks unattended in bars and restaurants as they could be spiked.
Be aware that tainted alcohol containing methanol, which is extremely dangerous, has caused serious illness and deaths.
Take extra care after dark in downtown areas of popular resorts like Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen.
Avoid using unlicensed taxis as drivers have robbed and assaulted passengers; use authorised taxi ranks or hotel-ordered taxis.
Make sure any company you use for adventure sports like scuba diving is reputable and uses up-to-date equipment.
Bonus tips:
Only use first-class buses on toll roads for longer journeys as they have a lower risk of incidents like hijacking.
Be discreet when discussing your financial affairs in public as criminals may be listening for kidnapping targets.
Driving in Mexico
A UK driving license is valid for tourist visits. An International Driving Permit is recommended but not always required.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Remember: Mexico drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Mexico
Voltage
127V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The electrical voltage in Mexico is 127V at 60Hz. Plugs are typically Type A and Type B. British travelers will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist destinations, but less so in smaller towns and rural areas. Always have some cash on hand, especially when traveling outside urban centers.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Mexico
ATMs can be found in most cities and tourist areas, especially at banks, airports, and shopping malls. They're less common in rural areas.
Local name
Cajero automático
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
Using ATMs is a convenient way to get MXN. Look for ATMs affiliated with major banks for better security. Be aware of potential transaction fees from both your bank and the local ATM operator. It is advisable to use ATMs during daylight hours and inside secure locations.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile users. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Mexico. Roaming charges can be high, so consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data and calls.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 300 MXN (~£15)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Telcel, AT&T Mexico, Movistar
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in tourist areas. However, the quality and speed can vary significantly.
Average speed
25 Mbps
While WiFi is widely available, the speed and reliability can be inconsistent. Purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan is a good option for reliable internet access, particularly if you plan to travel outside major cities.
Health & vaccinations in Mexico
It's crucial to get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, before you travel to Mexico. Make sure your policy covers all activities you plan to do. The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are not valid in Mexico.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date health advice regarding Mexico. Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations. Drink only bottled or purified water, and be cautious with street food. Dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya are present in Mexico, so take precautions against mosquito bites.
Calling Mexico
Country code
+52
To call Mexico from the UK, dial 00 52 followed by the local number.
To call a Mexico City number (55 xxxx xxxx) from the UK, you would dial 00 52 55 xxxx xxxx.
The country code for Mexico is 52. When calling Mexico from abroad, you must first dial your country's exit code, then 52, and finally the local number. Mobile phone coverage is generally good in urban areas but can be limited in more remote regions.
UK Embassy in Mexico
British Embassy Mexico City
Rio Lerma 71, Col. Cuauhtémoc, Alcaldía Cuauhtémoc, 06500, Ciudad de México
Airports in Mexico
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.