FAQs

Question

Is it safe?

Answer

Yes, where we will be. Mexico City is like any major city - it has dangerous areas and safe areas, and all of our events and hotels will be in safe areas. And you’ll know - in these nice neighborhoods you'll find mothers with strollers, women jogging, and business people sitting at coffee shops. It's extremely walkable; we have walked for many miles in this city and never felt unsafe. Mexico City is not a hotspot for cartel activity, so crime in the city is typically petty, like any major city - common sense will steer you clear of that, i.e. pocket your bills immediately after using the ATM. (We would recommend tell you to do the same in NYC!)

Question

Do People Speak English?

Answer

Many people in Mexico City speak English, especially people at the hotels, restaurants, and museums in the nieghborhoods we will be in. Of course, always good to have some Spanish phrases or Google Translate handy!

Question

Do I Need Cash and How Do I Get It?

Answer

Most businesses in Mexico take US credit cards, but we recommend bringing some US dollars to convert to Pesos, as it will be useful to have for tipping, going to markets, taco stands, and other small businesses. We recommend that you coordinate with your local bank of choice ahead of time to secure pesos and for a more favorable exchange rate. Otherwise, you may convert it when you get into the airport - the exchange rate there is decent and the booths are trustworthy. There are also plenty of MoneyGrams and similar trustworthy exchange houses around the city. You can also use one of the thousands of trustworthy ATMs at banks around the city (Banorte, Scotiabank, Santander, BBVA, etc). They are easy and accept US debit cards, but offer a less favorable exchange rate than bringing cash and exchanging it.

Question

Can I Use My Credit Card?

Answer

Yes, most businesses such as restaurants take US credit cards, as long as your card accepts international transactions (most do). Restaurants often bring the machine to your table and ask if you want to add a tip ("propina"). We recommend letting your bank know that you will be traveling to Mexico City, this should limit the security alerts on your credit cards.

Question

Is There Cell Service?

Answer

If you have AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, then you will probably be able to use your phone in Mexico with no problem as long as you have an international plan. These plans typically give you unlimited texting, calls, and data while in Mexico. If you don’t have an international plan, you will still be able to use your phone in Mexico, but you will be charged international roaming rates. We recommend checking into your phone plans before traveling to Mexico City. There are many places with internet, but you will most likely want to have it available on your cell phone while navigating the city.

Question

How Do I Get Around?

Answer

Google Maps and Uber! Both work just as well as at home, so having internet on your phone solves any challenges of getting around. If you don't purchase internet, you'll find free wifi all around the city (great excuse to stop in a cafe for a pastery?!) or you can print Google Maps area around your hotel in advance of your travel.

Question

Will I get sick? (Food & Water)

Answer

Just don't drink the tap water. Most locals also do not drink it, so bottled water is readily available everywhere you go. The food on the other hand is typically safe; you're more likely to get sick from water (swallowing in the shower, brushing teeth with tap water, etc.) than from food. Eat at the street carts! It is some of the best (and Carmen's favorite) food in the city. Just look for places that are busy! Locals don’t want to get sick either. If you get sick, (it can happen anywhere!!) buy “Treda” at any pharmacy. It’s an anti-diarrheal with a strong antibiotic (neomycin) that’s prescription-only in the US.

Question

Tipping

Answer

Tipping culture is slightly lower in Mexico than in the US but a little can go a long way so we tip the same as we would at home. Pesos also come in coins that make a great tipping item to have handy.

Question

Passport Expiration

Answer

The application process for renewing or securing a new passport can take up to 2 months. Additionally, please make sure your passport is up-to-date and not expiring within 6 months of traveling to Mexico City.

Question

Altitude?

Answer

Please remember that Mexico City has a very high altitude, its 7,200 feet above sea level. This could cause dizziness or a slight headache when you first arrive. If you are sensitive to high altitude or are concerned, speak with your doctor about options before you go! The climate is also very dry, so please remember to stay well-hydrated. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint! We recommend bringing Liquid IV or buying some Electrolit at the local Oxxo (convenience store)! There are also several pharmacies in Mexico for any of your personal needs ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Recuerde que la Ciudad de México tiene una altitud muy alta, está a 7,200 pies sobre el nivel del mar. Esto podría causar mareos o un leve dolor de cabeza al llegar. Si es sensible a la altitud o le preocupa, hable con su médico sobre opciones antes de viajar. El clima también es muy seco, así que recuerde mantengase bien hidratado. ¡Recuerde, esto es un maratón, no una carrera de velocidad! Recomendamos llevar Liquid IV o comprar Electrolit en el Oxxo local (tienda de conveniencia). También hay varias farmacias en México para cualquier necesidad personal.