Cancun 101: Tips for Visiting Another Country

Cancun is many things to many people.  For some it is a party city where there are drinks, lots of pretty guys and girls and lots of rowdy fun.  For others, it is a relaxing vacation with strolls on the beach, suntans, fine dining, natural wildlife attractions and water sports for the whole family.  One thing is for sure, however.  This is not America!  Cancun is located in Mexico and has its own culture, it's own etiquette and its on legalities that must be considered.  It can be a challenge when you attempt to adapt to a new country's style of living.  Fortunately, there have been many tourists before you who have bravely pioneered Cancun and have taken some notes on what you should and should not do.  Consider a few of the most common tips that have been passed tourist to tourist.

How do I get in?

Crossing the border from America to Cancun means you are entering the country of Mexico.  Mexico is generally friendly to American tourists and do not require a visa for entry.  However, you will be prompted for identification documents.  Sometimes authorities will accept a driver's license, birth certificate and tourist cards as acceptable documentation.  However, most visitors opt for quickest and easier solution: a passport.  You don't have to order expensive passports online, unless you need rush service.  You can simply inquire about passports from your local post office.

How do I get around?

Many tourists mistakenly believe that they need car rentals in Cancun.  You could drive around Cancun if you wanted to...just be aware that policeman often stop tourists to put the fear of God into them.  Rather than deal with all of that unpleasantness why not just take taxicabs and bus rides to longer distances and walk the rest of the way around Cancun?  The climate is warm and the environment is tourist friendly and very safe.

What do I bring?

Don't fret about money since most if not all Cancun locations accept credit cards, while many stores even have regular ATM machines just like you remember from home.  You may be surprised to learn that some hotels and even cafes have Internet service so you can check your email and surf online.  Tourists state that the most commonly needed object in Cancun is a Spanish-English dictionary, as not everyone in the area speaks fluent English.  Dress appropriately and come prepared in the summer for the threat of rain and inclement weather.

How can I keep healthy?

The old adage to never drink the water in Mexico is true.  There is no reason to take a chance with the drinking water unless the restaurant or hotel has provided filtered water.  Otherwise, you are far better off drinking from bottled water that you bring.  Also, share that same mistrust for perishable foods.  Fresh fruit and vegetables and raw meat should be boiled in water before eating, as contaminated food could make you sick in a hurry and ruin your Cancun vacation.

Take precautions when you visit Cancun.  Stay friendly with the locals, wise when it comes to eating and prompt when it comes to following the law.