Spring Break in Mexico

Mexico is a popular vacation destination.  While a large nubmer of individuals visit Mexico during the summer, there are many who choose to visit during the spring.  Many of these individuals are on spring break.  If you are like most college students, you may want to spend you spring break vacationing in Mexico.

One of the many reasons why Mexico is a popular vacation destination among college students is because of the legal drinking age.  Unlike in the United States, the legal drinking age is only eighteen in Mexico.  This law enables almost all college students to drink alcohol on their break, an activity that all enjoy.

While vacationing in Mexico, there are an unlimited nubmer of destinations that you can choose from.  If you are interested in partying, socializing, and spending time with your peers, you have a number of Mexico destinations to choose from.  You will find that many of these locations are beach resorts.

The most popular spring break destination in Mexico, if not the whole world, is Cancun.  Cancun is most famous for its nightlife.  Cancun is literally loaded with a large nubmer of bars and nightclubs.  If you are interested in partying the night away, Cancun is the place to do it.  Just a few of the many nightclubs in Cancun include the Bulldog Café, Dady ‘O, Margaritaville, Fat Tuesdays, and Senor Frogs.

Cancun is most known for its night life; however, you will need to find something to keep your days busy.  If you love the beach and all of the activities it has to offer, you will not be disappointed.  Along the beaches, you can swim, sunbathe, play volleyball, or toss a Frisbee around.  In addition to the activities found on the beach, you can also ride four-wheelers, take jungle tours, go horseback riding, experience an ocean cruise, or go snorkeling along the coast.

While Cancun may be the most popular Spring Break destination in the world, Mexico has a nubmer of other beach areas that you may want examine.  One of those locations includes Acapulco.  In many ways, Acapulco is similar to Cancun.  Acapulco has an active nightlife and other amazing activities, which can be found on or off the beach.

As with most beaches, while in Acapulco you can sunbathe along the shore, go swimming in the ocean, or participate in a nubmer of outdoor beach sports games.  In addition to traditional beach activities, you find even more to fill up your day, on and off the shoreline.  Just a few of the many activities that you can enjoy while visiting Acapulco include snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and participating in a Mexico fiesta.

The nightlife in Acapulco is often compared to Cancun.  You can spend your nights partying away in bars, nightclubs, strip clubs, or discos.  Just a few of the many bars in the Acapulco area include Mangos, One Dollar Bar, and Yuppies Sports Bar.

Whether you choose to spend your spring break in Cancun or Acapulco, you will have to make your plans ahead of time.  Your Spring Break vacation can be planned on a whim; however, many popular hotel resorts quickly fill up during spring break.  As soon as you decide that you are going to spend your break in Cancun or Acapulco, it is likely that you would want to make your travel plans right away.

When making hotel and travel accommodations, it is important not to make reservations with the first airline or hotel that you come across.  A large nubmer of resorts in the Cancun and Acapulco areas offer spring break packages. Many of these packages are designed to save spring breakers money.  In addition to searching for beach resorts that offer vacation packages, you may want to examine the deals found on discount travel websites. Many of these deals are similar to ones that you may find being offered by a popular resort.

With all of activities, services, and facilities found in Mexico, you are sure to enjoy your Spring Break. In fact, so many students enjoy their time there that they often return the following year.  Whether you what a simple vacation or to start a tradition, Mexico is the place to be.

Shopping in Mexico: Tips for Travelers

Mexico is a wonderful place to visit and is known for its wonderful resorts, beaches, and rich history.  It is also known for great bargains and exquisite boutiques.  When visiting Mexico, many tourists are excited to browse through the various shopping centers.

When shopping in Mexico, it is important to understand that there are strict rules that are enforced regarding the purchases that can be made in Mexico, as well as what can be brought back in to the United States.  Before you leave, it may be wise to review the United States Customs and Border Protection rules. These rules will let you know what you can purchase in Mexico and bring home with you.

Endangered species are not allowed to be purchased and brought back into the United States.  Since Mexico has such a wide range of wildlife, there are many products that are available for sale there. Many of these products are considered illegal and will be taken by United States Customs and Border Patrol.  You may be given a fine if you purchase these items and try to bring them over the border; however, additional action may be taken.  When it doubt you are encouraged to stay away from wild animals that are for sale. In addition to the animals themselves, you should be wary of goods that may have been made by these animals.  

Crocodiles are on the endangered species list.  Though it may seem enticing to have a new pair of Crocodile boots or a purse, you should avoid these items at all costs.  You will find that the government takes these violations seriously.  They will make routine checks at inspection points looking for any items that are deemed endangered.  Stuffed wildlife is also forbidden, so if you see any of these and they look appealing, resist the urge to purchase them and leave them be.

Mexican birds are colorful and exotic.  For those who deal with live trade, it may seem that purchasing exotic parrots from Mexico is a wonderful idea, but you need to think again.  Purchasing birds from Mexico is also considered violation.  To remain on the safe side, you should avoid purchasing any wildlife or wildlife products.  Even stuffed birds are against the law.  Even you may see these in abundance at shops and street markets, do your homework, and pass them up.  There are many other wonderful souvenirs that you can purchase that are legal and will pass through the border.

Antiquities and glazed ceramics are beautiful and appealing to many tourists.  Yet, Mexico considers their antiques to be property of the government.  This means that if you uncover any artifacts and try to bring them back to the United States, you will be prosecuted for theft and maybe even face additional charges.  It is best to leave any authentic looking artifacts in Mexico where they belong.

Glazed ceramics look beautiful and may be a wonderful addition to your home décor.  However, many of the ceramics made and found in Mexico are made with lead.  It is for this reason that you should avoid purchasing glazed ceramics from Mexico.  If you do make the purchase, you need to make sure that everyone in your household is aware of the potential dangers.

While it may seem as if you are prohibited from purchasing many items sold in Mexican shops, there are additional items that you can purchase. When shopping in Mexico it is important that you follow all rules and regulations. Staying on the safe side will ensure that you can enjoy you Mexico vacation without any complications.

Scuba Diving While Vacationing in Mexico

Millions of Americans schedule a Mexico vacation.  If you are interested in scheduling a vacation in Mexico, or you already have, you may be wondering what you can do while on vacation.  In Mexico, there are an unlimited number of activities that you may find exciting.  One of those activities may include scuba diving.

When it comes to scuba diving in Mexico, there are many travelers who are misinformed.  Many believe that you have to be an experienced diver to enjoy underwater diving.  This is simply not true. Before going scuba diving in the ocean, it is advised that you have basic knowledge of diving and strong swimming skills.  However, you do not have to be an experienced diver. When vacationing in Mexico, there are many individuals who go scuba diving for the first time.

Scuba diving is a pretty self-explained activity.  Scuba divers are featured in many movies and can be found in many amusement parks. While the general idea of scuba diving is the same in Mexico, what you will see underwater is not.  There are a number of underwater animals and plants that can only be seen in or around the Mexico area. This in itself is one of the many reasons why you should schedule a scuba diving adventure.

In Mexico, scuba divers are often able to swim with the dolphins and sea turtles. To many, this alone is worth the cost of scuba diving.  Aside from swimming with sea animals, you can also spend your scuba diving trip examining the life and environment underwater.  Just a few of the many sea animals that you may see in Mexico include lobsters, eels, sting rays, and a large number of different kinds of fishes. The fishes found in underwater Mexico often include puffer fishes, spotted fishes, and parrot fishes.

While the sea animals found underwater are the most exciting part of scuba diving, there are other underwater activities that you can participate in.  Many scuba divers enjoy diving along coral reefs that are found along the coast of Mexico.  Coral reefs are not only home to a large number of sea animals, but they also make for great adventures. You may find it exciting traveling in, over, or around the many different sized reefs.

Unless you are an experienced underwater diver, you are advised to go scuba diving with a trained professional. These professionals are most commonly found with scuba diving tour groups.  Scuba diving tour groups can be found all along the coast of Mexico.  Scuba diving is a popular pastime in Mexico; therefore, you are encouraged to schedule your scuba diving adventures ahead of time.

In addition to scheduling a scuba dive with a trained diver, you can learn how to scuba dive at a number of locations in Mexico.  Many of these locations also offer guided tours.  Scuba diving lessons are offered as group lessons or private lessons.  Private lessons may be more expensive, but many first time scuba divers find them rewarding, in more ways than one.

Underworld Scuba operates scuba diving and snorkeling tours in the Manzanillo area of Mexico.  It has been said that the Manzanillo area is one of the best places to go scuba diving in Mexico.  Underworld Scuba, along with number other companies, state that the area is thriving with underwater life and adventures. Another popular scuba diving tour company is The Puerto Dive Team, which operates out of Oaxaco Mexico. They are most known for their private one-on-one underwater tours.

To find other guided tours that are designed for scuba divers, you are encouraged to contact your local travel agent or do the research yourself.  Whether or not you have already selected your Mexico destination, you should easily be able to find nearby tours. The closer you are to the coast, the more tours you will have access to.  What you can do and see underwater is absolutely amazing.  It is likely what you see will stay with you for years to come.

Savoring the Memories of Your Mexico Vacation

Each year, millions of individuals, couples, and families make the decision to vacation in Mexico.  If you are interested in becoming one of those people, it is likely that you will have more fun than you ever imagined.  There are so many fun things to do in Mexico that many are sad to leave.  If you are looking for ways to cherish your Mexico memories, you have a number of ways to do so.

When taking a vacation, whether that vacation is in Mexico or not, a camera may be one of the first things that you pack.  A camera is one of the best ways to cherish and forever remember your Mexico vacation. When selecting a camera to take along with you on your trip, you will want to keep your vacation activities and destinations in mind.  This is important to select the right camera.

If you have a digital camera, your first instinct may be to bring that camera along.  Digital cameras take photographs that are often incomparable.  When brining along a digital camera, you are encouraged to keep its cost in mind.  Many travelers are advised not to bring along expensive belongings.  Depending on its value, this may mean your digital camera.  If you do want to bring your digital camera along, you are advised to keep it with you at all times and refrain from getting it wet.

Aside from digital cameras, disposable cameras are the most popular among travelers.  Disposable cameras work like all other traditional cameras.  The only difference is that you will not get the camera back once your pictures are developed.  If you are interested in keeping your vacation photographs on your computer or you prefer digital pictures, most photo centers will transfer your photographs onto a CD. This CD may allow you to crop, reduce red eye, and make other alterations to your vacation pictures.

As with digital cameras, you need to refrain from getting your disposable camera wet.  If you are vacationing at the beach or participating in water related activities, you may want to consider purchasing an underwater camera.  Underwater cameras are often sold in a disposable form. Depending on the style of your camera, you may be able to purchase a waterproof casing.  This casing may make your traditional camera water proof.

While many travelers want to bring along their cameras, there are many who simply forget to.  If you are without a camera on your Mexico vacation, you can easily purchase one.  Many retails stores in Mexico sell digital cameras, traditional cameras, and disposable cameras.  The only downside to purchasing a camera at your vacation destination is that the cameras are often overpriced.  Most merchandise, including cameras, is priced high in most well-known tourist locations.

If you are unable to afford to cost of a camera, you may be able to take pictures with your cell phone.  Camera phones are popular all around the world. In addition to keeping your vacation pictures on your phone, you can easily email them to friends and family or you can transfer the picture to your computer.  The quality of camera phone pictures may not be the best, but it is better than not taking pictures at all.

The above mentioned cameras are all ideal for taking pictures while vacationing in Mexico.  Pictures are nice, but they are not only way that you can remember your Mexico vacation. Many travelers enjoy taking video footage of their vacations and with a camcorder and you can too.

If you do not already have a camcorder, you will need to buy one.  As DVDs are increasing in popularity, the popularity of VHS tapes is slowing beginning to decline.  If you are looking for cheap camcorders, you may be able to find VHS tape recorders for a low price at most retail stores.  Video footage is often better on a DVD than on a VHS tape.  If you are able to afford the latest camcorder models, you are encouraged to consider purchasing one.

While vacationing in Mexico, you are likely to have a great experience.  This experience may include meeting locals, diving undersea, or taking a boat cruise.  It is likely that your Mexico vacation will forever live on in your heart. To keep those memories alive, you are encouraged to document your Mexico vacation with one or more of the above mentioned methods.

Preparing for Your Trip to Mexico

Preparation is the key to your safety when visiting Mexico.  You should begin your vacation with a careful and well thought-out plan.  Your plan should include your budget, where you will be staying, as well as important information and contact numbers in case there is an emergency.

You should be current with your immunizations before leaving the country and follow all safety precautions while in Mexico.  You should also register with the United States Embassy and make sure that you leave a copy of your itinerary with a family member, close friend, co-worker, or neighbor.  You may also want to consider registering with the United States Travel Registration, for added convenience. This can easily be done over the internet.  This is an important precaution to take.  It helps to notify the United States Government that you are leaving the country.  By taking necessary precautions and planning your trip efficiently, you can ensure that your vacation will be what you expected, it will also help to eliminate the chances of a problem occurring.

Staying up to date on current events in Mexico is very important to timing your trip.  You should begin watching the news and plan your trip based on what you see.  If there are internal conflicts within the Mexican government, you may want to delay your trip for a period of time.  You should also learn as much as you can about the country before you embark on your journey.  Finding out the country’s weather and climate is extremely important to planning the perfect trip.  Traveling to Mexico during hurricane season can put a damper on your vacation, so make sure that you keep this in mind when planning your Mexico vacation.

Before leaving, you are encouraged to find out as much information about the location of your trip, the culture, and customs.  Another important step to take when preparing for your trip to Mexico is to check with the Consular Information Sheets.  Consular Information Sheets are valuable resources that all tourists should examine.  It will provide you with information that will give you all of the details that are applicable to traveling in Mexico.  The sheets will give you emergency contact information, and describe the current conditions within the country.

The importance of your passport cannot be overlooked.  There are many places where your passport, along with other forms of identification will be needed.  You should make copies of your passport and your tickets and leave them with a close friend or relative.  In addition to your passport, you will also need other proper forms of identification. This identification most often is picture identification.

You will want to review your health insurance policy before you leave the country.  Certain medical insurance programs will not provide services outside of the United States.  If you become ill outside of the country and are not covered, you will be responsible for any bills that result.  Some medical insurance policies will provide coverage for those outside of the country, but you should verify with your provider before your trip.  If you travel frequently, it may be beneficial to add additional coverage to your current policy.

The above mention tips and precautions are just a few of the many that can help you have the perfect vacation in Mexico.  Properly preparing for your trip is the best way to prevent unnecessary problems from arising.