Our top tips:
1. Book hotels & flights as soon as possible:
In Mexico, the earlier you book your hotel, the cheaper they will be.
2. Always book a hotel with a safe:
It is so important to put your valuables in the safe. Sadly we heard that hotel workers shouldn't be trusted in Mexico and steal even things like makeup. We made sure to put all our valuables in the safe and even locked our suitcases when we left for the day.
3. Leave your passport in the safe:
There are so many pickpocketers in Mexico, and the chance of you losing your passport is higher if it is on you. Carry an ID or copy of your passport that should be enough.
4. Tell hotels that you are on your honeymoon:
If you are on your honeymoon, tell the hotels ahead of time. They will decorate your room, and some hotels will even give you champagne and dessert.
5. What clothes to bring:
Bring clothes that you don't mind ruining. You're going to be spending so much time in the ocean and we all know that the ocean salts ruin our clothes. Make sure to pack a few nice outfits for when you go out to a party or a fancy restaurant.
6. Credit cards:
Always fly with 2 credit cards just in case you lose one. One of them should be on you, and one should stay in the safe.
7. Cash:
Always have small change on you (5-10 Pesos) because in Mexico is acceptable to give tips, and it's always more comfortable when you have it ready.
8. Bank:
We recommend pulling out money only from banks ATM! When we visited Cibanco had the lowest exchange rate.
9. Mosquito repellent:
Don't bring mosquito repellent from home! Mexico has mosquitos everywhere, but don't worry, they also have the best mosquito repellent called 'OFF'. The orange bottle has an orange smell, and the moment we started using it, we never got bit by mosquitos.
10. Cost of taxis:
There's a simple rule - How much does it cost to take a taxi? A 1-minute drive costs about 10 Pesos. Use Google maps to calculate the ride time.
11. Tap water:
You're not allowed to drink tap water in Mexico. When you're brushing your teeth use mineral water, and when you are at the restaurant, ask not to have ice cubes in your drinks.
12. Watch what you eat:
To avoid food poisoning/salmonella, don't eat from the food stalls outside. Try to eat in restaurants that are full of people that way, you'll know that the turnover of the food is higher and the food is fresher.
13. Waterproof bag:
Bring a waterproof bag when going to the beach. You put your valuables in there, including your phone, and that way, you don't have to worry about your valuables getting stolen.
14. Where to exchange money:
Always exchange your USD or pull out Pesos in the big cities (Cancun/Playa del Carmen) because in small places (like Holbox or Bacalar), it is very hard to find bank ATMs, and when you do find them, the exchange rates are higher.
15. If you rent a car:
Make sure to drive within the speed limit! The police there are corrupt, and they look for tourists to take a bribe instead of getting a speeding ticket!
16. USD Vs. Peso:
If you are asked if you want to pay by Peso or USD, always choose Peso because the exchange rate is always higher with USD.
17. Rainy days:
Beware, on rainy days, there will be way more mosquitos outside! Use the OFF mosquito repellent, or they'll eat you alive!
18. Bring Portable Chargers:
These definitely come in handy when you are out all day exploring.
19. Transportation:
Getting around Mexico is very useful by bus. The buses are very comfortable and even have movies playing. The number of seats is limited therefore you should order the tickets ahead of time online!
20. Warm clothes:
Always bring warm clothes when taking buses. It gets very cold because of the AC.