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Mexico Snapshot

Mexico is generally most pleasant in the cool, dry season between September and June. July and August can be very hot and humid, but perfect for swimming, snorkelling and lazing on the beach. It is, however, the busiest months for travel as this is the time of the North American school holidays. Highland areas such as Chiapas and Oaxaca tend to be cooler year round, with cold nights.
  • Mexico weather chart

Eating and Drinking in Mexico

  • Tamales: The origins of the tamale date back centuries to the Mesoamerican period. This simple dish of corn dough wrapped in a plantain leaf and steamed or boiled is often dressed up with the addition of meat and mole (sauce). Don’t forget to remove the leaf before eating.
  • Ceviche: Although not originally native to Mexico, ceviche has been served in Mexico for centuries. Best tried in coastal areas where the seafood is freshest, this light dish features shrimp, octopus or squid along with lime, onion, chilli and avocado.
  • Huevos Motulenos: This hearty breakfast favourite hails from the Yucatan area and consists of eggs, cheese, beans, tortillas and salsa.
  • Tostada de Pata: This melange of pork, beans, cheese, salsa and onions served on a toasted tortilla is a quick, tasty and cheap snack and is easily found around Mexico.
  • Spices & herbs

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. From the diverse fare on offer in Oaxaca and the regional Yucatecan cuisine of Merida, to the sizzling street food of Mexico City, there’s a wealth of culinary options to choose from.

Shopping in Mexico

  • Tiles, Ceramics and Earthenware: Mexico has a longstanding tradition in creating good quality pottery. Hit the artisan markets for colourful pots, vases and jugs. Don’t forget to pack carefully.
  • Bright Textiles: Woven textiles can be found almost everywhere in Mexico. Hand-woven rugs, blankets, scarves and ponchos are a great reminder of your time in Mexico.
  • Jewellery: The silver in Mexico is among the world's best. Rings, necklaces and bracelets featuring bold Aztec designs are popular choices.
  • Lucha Libre Masks: This Mexican wrestling phenomenon is growing in popularity worldwide, so grab a colourful wrestling mask - it’s a great souvenir for kids (and big kids) at home.
  • Colourful textiles rugs blankets local handmade

Travellers will be delighted with the range of good quality shopping available in Mexico. As usual, the markets offer some of the most cost-effective and fun ways to shop, although Mexico’s cities also showcase some excellent boutiques and galleries for more costly purchases.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Accommodation

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Mexico you may find yourself staying in a:
Basic Hotel

  • Basic Hotel

  • Intrepid prefers smaller character-filled hotels and guesthouses than hotel chains. When staying in Mexico, enjoy staying in small hotels owned and run by friendly locals.

Transport

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Mexico, you may find yourself travelling by:
Local Bus

  • Local Bus

  • Mexican ‘chicken buses’ have achieved legendary status in travel circles. Experience the ride for yourself!

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Mexico at a glance

  • 31
  • Mexico City (population 8.7 million)
  • 113.7 million
  • Spanish
  • MXN
  • (GMT-06:00) Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey - New
  • Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)
  • +52

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