When visiting Mexico you are taking a journey into a foreign culture where some things are done differently. Here are some useful tips for your visit and to assure that you will have a good time in Mexico.
When Stopped by the Police
When stopped by the police be polite but firm. There is no need to pay the officer any money and you are not required to show your passport. If stopped for a traffic violation the standard procedure is to surrender your driver’s license. At this point you have the choice of following the officer to the station to pay your fine or go to the station later to pay your fine and retrieve your license. At the time you pay the fine your license will be returned to you. They don’t want your license and they don’t want you in their jail. Many times when the police stop you they are looking for a bribe. Just say no. Most of the time the officer will let you off with a warning and give your license back to you. If not, the worst thing is that you make a trip to the station. As you are on your way to the station think of the great story you will have to share with your friends when you return home.
In Need of Medical Services
If you need medical help we have a local doctor we recommend to our clients that we have used ourselves. He is knowledgeable, fair, and reasonably priced. Most hotels have a Dr.on call. Wherever you end up for medical care take a polite but firm hand. If a procedure is suggested that you feel is not warranted stand firm. A common typical procedure is to automatically hook up and IV. Use your best judgment and don’t be intimidated. Make sure you ask how much each procedure is going to cost before allowing the procedure. In an emergency situation it is advisable to have a friend or family member with you.
Using Credit Cards
We rarely use credit cards when traveling internationally. The simple fact is there is more credit card fraud in Mexico than in the US. If you use your credit card check your balance frequently to look for activity that is not your own. ATM’s are easily found and using an ATM to get the cash you need may be a better choice.
Think Smart, Act Smart
Don’t take chances. Don’t walk down the street alone, drunk and after midnight. This is good advice no matter where you are in the world. Don’t associate with anyone on the street after midnight. If someone offers you drugs or sex, keep walking, don’t stop. Don’t even slow down to say no. If you do you are then associating with drug dealers.
Gas Stations
In the 10 years I have lived in Cabo I have been taken twice. You can’t fill your own tank so are dependent upon the guy at the pump. With the exchange between dollars and pesos, and change with a foreign currency visitors are easy marks. For instance the 50 peso is a magenta color and the 100 pesos bill is red. Upon giving the attendant a $100 peso bill and waiting for change he reported I had given him only a 50 peso bill. I argued but lost the argument. A better plan is to make sure the attendant sees the bill you are using and naming the bill. Look them in the eye and tell them the amount you will spend. They will move their shell game to someone less alert.
Changing Money
Everyone takes dollars but not at the same exchange rate. Most places will give you a price in dollars and in pesos. Ask what rate they are using and then compare to make sure you are paying an equal amount. Many places will bring your change in pesos after you have paid in dollars. Again, confirm the exchange rate to make sure you have the correct change. We usually exchange our dollars at a bank or ATM for the best rate.
Consumer Complaints
Profeco is Mexico’s agency for consumer complaints. The website is www.profeco.gob.mx. To file a report in English go to http://www.profeco.gob.mx/english.htm and click on “quejas y denuncias”. Profeco is one of Mexico’s most respected government branches and famous for not being corrupt.
I believe a great part of Mexico’s charm is the wonderful people. However, as in all communities around the world, there are those who would take advantage of those that appear vulnerable. The best posture is to be alert, and polite but firm in any situation. The Mexican people love tourists, are helpful and want you to enjoy your stay.
