SOUTH OF MEXICO & THE MAYAN RUINS.
Travel 12 days from only $132 dls Per day.
BEGINS : MEXICO CITY.
ENDS : CANCUN, QUINTANA ROO.
WE WILL VISIT:
MEXICO CITY, VERACRUZ, CATEMACO, TUXTLA GUTIERREZ, SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS, PALENQUE, CAMPECHE, MERIDA AND VALLADOLID.
Dear traveler, Bienvenido!!!! to a great adventure with the best value, this tour is all inclusive, with all meals, (including a wide variety Southern Mexico cuisines and vegetarian optional),activities, tips for bellboys and maids, hotels, transfers, and baggage handling for 1 piece per person, amazing highlights, discoveries and entrance to all local archeological ruins.
A 20 year experience certified Program Director will be with you all the time, on a very comfortable air conditioning coach that will take you through this amazing journey.
DAY 1. ARRIVE TO MEXICO CITY. SATURDAY.
Welcome to the capital city of the country that has been described as the biggest city in the world.
Its origin goes back to the year of 1325 when a nomad tribe of warriors called Aztecas, whose chieftain Tenoch followed the instructions of Huitzilopochtli - their tribal deity - to settle "on an island on a lake where an eagle was devouring a serpent while perched on a cactus". That settlement became Tenochtitlan - a city with over 100,000 population living among splendid temples and pyramids built with the spoils gained from the many battles fought with neighboring tribes.
Today you will arrive to this magnificent city on your own to the airport of Mexico City, where a guide will be waiting for you to take you to the hotel.
Your progam director will meet you at the hotel where you will have a welcome briefing and then dinner .
Today includes: Dinner.
DAY 2. MEXICO CITY. SUNDAY.
Today after breakfast, we are going on an included tour around the city of Mexico, visiting Reforma avenue, the Cathedral, the Governor Palace (to see the murals of Diego Rivera), Bellas Artes building, The Angel, and the Basilic of The Virgin of Guadalupe, not just another Catholic church, but the central place of worship for Mexico's patron saint and the home of the image responsible for uniting pre-Hispanic Indian mysticism with Catholic beliefs.
After that we will enjoy lunch and then a brief visit to the National Museum of Anthropology opened in 1971, housed in a fine new building designed by Architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez. The ground floor focuses on the native cultures and societies of Mexico before the Spanish conquest. The famous Aztec sun stone is only a small part of the fantastic collection of artwork from the indigenous population of Mexico.
Each room displays artifacts from a particular geographic region or culture — the Sala Teotihuacána, Sala Tolteca, Sala Oaxaca, and so on. Explanatory labels have been recently updated, with English translations.
Other major highlights include a replica of the Aztec ruler Moctezuma's feathered headdress (the original is in Vienna, Austria); a stela from Tula, near Mexico City; massive Olmec heads from Veracruz; and vivid reproductions of Maya murals in a reconstructed Temple.
Don't miss the magnificent Mayan tomb of 8th-century ruler Pacal, which was discovered at Palenque. The perfectly preserved skeleton lies inan immense stone chamber, and the stairwell walls leading to it are beautifully decorated with bas-relief scenes of the underworld. Pacal's jade death mask is also on display nearby.
Next, drive by Mexico City’s Main Square and Cathedral.
After a great day all around Mexico City, then we will go to dinner and then back to the hotel, where our guide, will give you the choice to go to the Folkloric Ballet of Amalia Hernandez, that represents in each dance, the México of ancient Ruins, churches made of gold and shadows. The México from yesterday and today, of beautiful songs and dances, born from ruins created between the black braids of the natives, screams, weeping, silence, songs.
Included today: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 3. TEOTIHUACAN - VERACRUZ. MONDAY.
Today, we will visit Teotihuacan, located not far from Mexico City. It is an archeological site of a monumental city built long before the Aztec Empire by former occupants of the region. It is thought to have flourished from around the 1st century AD to the 7th century. When the first Aztecs migrated to the region in the 14th century, they saw it as a sacred site where the gods had gathered to create the Sun and the Moon. They called it Teotihuacan (place of the gods) and made it a place of pilgrimage. The city is divided in two sections by a huge street, which is called the Avenue of the Dead. The name derived from a false idea that the large structures along the street should have been tombs. Teotihuacan was designated a World Heritage site in 1987.
After the amazing visit to the ruins and having the most wonderful buffet lunch, we will head to the city of Veracruz, a popular tourist destination, especially for residents of Mexico City. In route see the towering snow-capped Popocatepetl Volcano, weather permitting. With many buildings from the colonial period, traditional indigenous culture, and distinctive regional cuisine, the Port of Veracruz is well-known for its rich traditions. The streets are enlivened with marimba bands, danzon (a creolized Cuban dance form), and conga de comparasa, and a special type of music, son jarocho, developed there (La Bamba is an example). The rich musical culture is complemented by an equally strong tradition of dance. There we will learn from the Totonacs and Olmecs history.
Included today : Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 4. VERACRUZ - CATEMACO. EYIPANTLA WATERFALL. TUESDAY.
After breakfast, another visit that day is The Naval Museum, established on June 1st in the year 1997, the year when the Mexican Navy celebrated their 100 years of existence. The Naval Museum was inaugurated with a view to pay homage to the seamen and the courageous Navy who defended the Port of Veracruz during the US invasion of in the year 1914 in the month of April.
Then we will visit the fort of San Juan de Ulua, sitting quietly across the malecon from the busy city and port of Veracruz.
This was the transfer point for the huge treasure of the Spanish empire, it was the largest in the history of mankind. Built to ward off pirates and foreign invasions, the fortress was enlarged throughout the colonial period until it became the massive work you see today. After independence, the fort served as a prison noted for its harsh conditions and for the famous people incarcerated there, among them Benito Juárez. It's a formidable example of colonial military architecture, with crenellated walls projecting straight up some 11m (36 ft.) from the water's edge, and bastions at each corner. Inside is a large courtyard, with wide ramps along the inside walls, storehouses, barracks, and old prison cells.
After this important visit, if the traffic conditions allow us, we will try to visit the Eyipantla waterfall known as the home of Tlaloc, the lord of the rain, and the cigar factory. Then we will continue our way to Catemaco stopping in Boca del Rio to have a very typical lunch from the area.
Arriving, we will check in and then take a discovery walk around the picturesque town.
Included today : Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 5. CATEMACO ISLANDS.- TUXTLA GUTIERREZ. WEDNESDAY.
After a delicious buffet breakfast, we will embark on boats to visit the monkey island, and the birds island of Laguna Catemaco in Veracruz; a ride of 1 hour and 40 minutes admiring nature. In this well described excursion on numerous international websites.
The University of Veracruz, Mexico stocked one of the islands in Laguna Catemaco with Stumptail Macaque monkeys native to Thailand and imported from Puerto Rico to do a research study.
Before the study was finished, Catemaco fishermen discovered the profitability of motoring tourists to the island to view monkeys in a natural habitat. Over the years this monkey visiting trip has turned into a tradition among Catemaco population, which will be inviting us to take a boat ride to the island.
After having a typical lunch on another island, we will go back to the coach to continue traveling to Tuxtla Gutierrez.
Included today: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
After an exciting morning full of natural discoveries, we arrive to Tuxtla Gutierrez, the capital city of the state of Chiapas. Tuxtla Gutierrez is a wonderfully interesting city, worthy of more attention from the tourist trade. Wide, busy avenues are lined with miles of gloriously affordable clothes and shoes, many of them designer knock-offs at prices far lower than you could ever find in the US. There are upscale department stores, supermarkets, and suburban-style malls. And, of course, there are also several large, crowded, exciting traditional Mexican mercados which offer everything from seafood and sausages, religious icons and candles, to fresh fruits and local flowers.
Included today: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 6. CANON DEL SUMIDERO - SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS. THURSDAY.
After another delicious buffet breakfast, we continue the adventure on a boat along the Canon del Sumidero, This canyon is a result of a geological fault during the Pleistocene. The importance and cultural symbolism of Sumidero Canyon for Chiapans are so great that its silhouette is the base of the Coat of Arms of the state of Chiapas. This canyon is home to a great variety of wildlife including American crocodiles, monkeys, and a large variety of birds. From here, on to San Cristobal de las Casas, with the warmest people in Mexico, It is characterized by its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with an artistic and bohemian flair which attracts many European visitors, especially. The colonial streets and alleyways lined with red-roof tiles and white-washed walls beg wanderers to explore and discover the nooks and crannies; alleyways open up into picturesque arcades and plazas showing off their authentic colonial architecture and hosting churches, museums, cafés, restaurants and artisan workshops, among other delights.
The city is situated at 7,000 feet above sea level, in a lush green valley where the air is fresh and you can experience that unique clarity of highland light.
Although San Cristobal is the principal market town and commercial center in this area, it's also the best hub from which to explore the surrounding indigenous villages and the magnificent natural beauty for which Chiapas is known.
The Maya, who are descended from an ancient and ingenious civilization, are a strong presence in and around the city. In many respects, Chiapas more closely resembles Guatemala than Mexico.
Included today: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 7. SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS – SAN JUAN CHAMULA. FRIDAY.
Today after breakfast, we will visit two villages that are within a few miles of each other, separated only by a ridge of hills but with customs and cultural roots that are vastly different. In Xinacantán you'll note men and women wear clothing woven of bright pink thread, embroidered with large pastel flowers and edged with bouncing tassels. Their neighbors in San Juan Chamula wear black, wild, tangled woolen shawls with white wool tunics. All the clothes they wear are hand made locally. The wool on the sheep, cleaning, dyes and knitting are all obtained "in-house": nothing is purchased externally. Sheep are sacred here: they are treated, protected and mourned on passing as any other member of the family. In both towns you'll see interesting primitive churches, copal incense floating around the natives sitting on the ground, candles burning before them. One of the most mystic and religious town in Mexico, the small village of San Juan Chamula is located 10km northwest of San Cristóbal de las Casas in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas. The village is home to a conservative and fiercely independent Tzotzil community estimated to be around 80,000 strong. The Chamulans live alongside several other indigenous communities in the highland area surrounding San Cristóbal. Numbering upwards of 400,000, the Tzotziles are one of the largest indigenous groups in the state of Chiapas. The village’s local tianguis, or weekly open-air market, takes place on Sundays in front of the local church and it makes for a fascinating side-trip from San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Then, back to San Cristobal to explore the inviting streets and great shops on your own, where you will find handicrafts of rare beauty, native only to this area.. Admire the antiquity of Santo Domingo Church. Then visit San Jolobil, a cooperative established to assist local women to improve and market traditional needlework. (a subject of National Geographic articles).
Included today: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 8. BLUE WATER WATERFALL PARK - PALENQUE. SATURDAY.
This morning, we are making a special stop to see another gift of nature, the blue water waterfalls, called by many the most beautiful natural attraction in Mexico. It is just about 30 miles from Palenque.
The crystalline blue waters are colored, in simple terms, by the large amount of limestone deposits on the rocky river bed, a surreal environment in the heart of the dense green rain forest country of southern Mexico.
After that incredible stop and lunch, we continue driving to Palenque, a prime example of a Mayan sanctuary of the classical period, Palenque was at its height between AD 500 and 700, when its influence extended throughout the basin of the Usumacinta River. The elegance and craftsmanship of the buildings, as well as the lightness of the sculpted reliefs with their Mayan mythological themes, attest to the creative genius of this civilization. Before arriving to Palenque we will have another discovery, the visit to another beautiful and majestic waterfall, MISOL-HA.
Upon our arrival, there is going to be another discovery, a TEMAZCAL bath. The name Temazcal, or Temazcalli is made of two Nahuatl words, which means bath, and calli, meaning house. The practice of inducing sweat has long been known to be healing and beneficial. The Temazcal, because of its special methods, is perhaps the most effective. The list of conditions for which it has been used in the course of centuries is extensive. Temazcals produce a series of physical benefits, Overall rejuvenation of the body and mind.
And all this is going to be included to get you ready for the adventure of next day.. The visit to the Palenque ruins!!!!
Included today: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 9. CAMPECHE. SUNDAY.
This morning we visit the ruins of Palenque, an incomparable achievement of Mayan art. The structures are characterized by fineness and a lightness which resulted from the new construction techniques and drainage methods that were developed in order to reduce the thickness of the walls. The expanded interior space, multiple openings, and the use of galleries give the architecture a rare elegance, richly decorated with sculptures and stucco of a type never previously seen.
After this unique and outstanding visit, we head north to the beautiful City of Campeche founded in the 16th Century, 1540 to be exact, although a settlement had been here since 1517. If you love history, culture, architecture, and access to wonderful places like Mayan cities, almost untouched rivers and beaches, you will love Campeche City.
In Campeche city you will find examples of 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th century architecture. In 1999, the city was designated a World Cultural Heritage site by the United Nations UNESCO. We will visit the forts of this city, an outstanding example of military architecture of the XVII and XVIII centuries as well as being the basis of the complete defense system implemented by Spain in the Caribbean to protect its colonies from Pirate attacks.
Included today : Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 10. MERIDA. MONDAY.
Today, we visit the beautiful city of Merida the capital city of the state of Yucatan. Known as "White City" because of the large use of white limestone and white paint. This traditional city depicts much of the splendor of Colonial Mexico. This is by no means to say that Merida still exists in a time warp and the contrary could be said. There is old and new exhibited in everything from fashion to architecture.
The Spanish Conquistador Francisco de Montejo founded present day Merida in 1542. An insight into the horrendous pain and suffering of the people who were brutalized by the conquering conquistadors exists in magnificent paintings that are on display in the Governor's Palace located in downtown Merida.
Included Today : Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Included Today : Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DAY 11. VALLADOLID - CHICHEN - ITZA. TUESDAY.
This day, we'll visit the ruins of Chichen Itza, occupying an area of 4 square miles in south - central Yucatan state. Designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1988.
This sacred site was one of the greatest Mayan centers of the Yucatán peninsula. Throughout its nearly 1,000-year history, different peoples have left their mark on the city. The Maya and Toltec vision of the world and the universe is revealed in their stone monuments and artistic works, being the most important archaeological vestige of the Maya-Toltec civilization in Yucatán (10th-15th centuries). Its monuments, particularly in the northern group which includes the Great Ball Court, Temple of Kukulkan and Temple of the Warriors, are among the undisputed masterpieces of Mesoamerican architecture because of the beauty of their proportions, the refinement of their construction and the splendor of their sculpted decorations.
Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
Included Today: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
DAY 12. CANCUN AIRPORT. WEDNESDAY.
This morning we drive to The International Airport of Cancun, please make sure your flight goes out of Cancun after 12 pm.
If you want to stay in Cancun for some extra nights, then we will drop you off at your hotel.
Included Today : Breakfast.
Included Today : Breakfast.
Highlights included in this tour :
MEXICO CITY: THE BIGGEST OF ALL.
VERACRUZ: OLDEST CITY IN AMERICA.
BASILICA: THE MOST IMPORTANT RELIGIOUS SANCTUARY IN THE WESTERN CIVILIZATION.
TEOTIHUACAN : THE SECOND BIGGEST AND LARGEST PYRAMID IN THE WORLD.
CATEMACO: NATURE,MAGIC AND PREHISPANIC MEDICINE.
SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS : THE FIRST DOMINICAN CONVENT IN THE AMERICAS.
SUMIDERO CANYON: THE DEEPEST ARTIFICIAL DAM/ CANYON IN AMERICA.
PALENQUE: THE MOST EXITING MAYAN CITY.
SAN JUAN DE ULUA: THE LARGEST TRANSFER POINT FOR THE SPANISH EMPIRE IN THE HISTORY OF MANKIND.
CHICHEN ITZA: THE MOST IMPORTANT ARCHAEOLOGICAL VESTIGE OF THE MAYA – TOLTEC CIVILIZATION.
MERIDA: WITH ONE OF THE LARGEST CENTRO HISTORICO DISTRICTS IN THE AMERICAS AND THE OLDEST COLONIAL CITY IN THE YUCATAN PENINSULA.
CAMPECHE: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.
PLEASE NOTE:
To book this trip you will have to fly in to Mexico City, and then, fly out of Cancun Quintana Roo.
PERSONAL PICK UP:
Arrival Transfers Information.
Airport transfers are included in this tour. Please upon arrival at the Benito Juarez Airport (MEX) in Mexico City, and after picking up your luggage, proceed toward the exit and someone will be waiting for you to take you to the hotel. The transfer takes about 35 minutes from the airport to your hotel. If you arrive the day before the tour begins, expect to pay around $35.00 USD for the taxi ride.
In-Flight Meals
Most flights within the U.S. and to destinations in North America (Canada & Mexico) no longer provide complimentary meals. On some flights food may be available for purchase on board. Meal prices, quantity, and quality may vary. For this
reason we recommend that you bring your own food items.
Airline Info
We have a list of airlines that service this tour:
Mexico City Tour Begins with Midwest Airlines, Aviacsa, US Airways, Continental, ATA, Delta, American Airlines, America West, Frontier, United Airlines, Volaris, and Aeromexico.
Cancun Tour Ends with US Airways, Aviacsa, Volaris, Continental, Delta, American Airlines, ATA, Aeromexico, Spirit Airlines, Air Trans, United Airlines, Sun Country and Frontier.
Featured Accommodations:
Hotel Geneve.
Mexico City.
Hotel Geneve first opened its doors in Mexico City in 1907. From the beginning it has been a tireless innovator in the touristic area.
The Geneve has at all times demonstrated its hospitality with its doors always open; during the Mexican Revolution it was declared a neutral zone, hosting ambassadors and their families, not to mention some revolutionaries.
Its architecture and decoration bring up to your mind the classical European style. Several antiques and pieces of art have become part of the history of this Museum Hotel.
Hotel Veracruz Centro Historico.
Veracruz.
Veracruz.
Colorful and lively the Hotel Veracruz Centro Histórico rises amidst an ambience of tradition, folklore and music surrounded by the sounds of marimba bands or strolling mariachis, the warmth and hospitality of the people in the port and colored by the array of typical handicrafts in a land where coffee scent perfumes the air.
Its picturesque colonial architecture stands out in the historic downtown area, where visitors alike turn out Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights to see danzon aficionados dance in the main square , accompanied by a live band... its balcony is the perfect view point to appreciate the beauty of Veracruz and its majestic cathedral. This wonderful building full of tradition is guarded and catalogued by the National Institute of Anthropology and History. There’s no doubt that guests staying at Hotel Veracruz are privileged with the best location in the city.
Hotel Playa Cristal.
Catemaco.
This hotel is unique in the area, and naturally magic. You will be surrounded by nature and all kinds of animal living creatures, that your eyes won't believe what they are seeing.
This comfortable hotel, has beautiful rooms with 2 beds, and a private shower.
Hotel Maria Eugenia.
Tuxla Gutierrez.
Maria Eugenia Hotel is located in the heart of Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas, two blocks from the Zocalo . It has 82 comfortable rooms that include two double beds, air conditioning, cable TV, telephone and wireless Internet. It is without doubt one of the best hotels in the city. It is also recognized do among the people as the most important meeting point of the city. It’s distinctive presence leaves the majority of people happy, since it impacts on their special beauty and distinctive design.
Hotel Mansion del Valle.
San Cristobal de las Casas.
Mansion del Valle Hotel is a colonial-style 4 Star Hotel with excellent location in San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico, near the University, the Palace of Government and the Crafts Market, among many other tourist attractions.
This Hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas is part of the Quality Club Treasures of Chiapas, offering a total of 65 comfortable accommodations decorated with a very Mexican style and equipped with a great array of amenities
This Hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas is part of the Quality Club Treasures of Chiapas, offering a total of 65 comfortable accommodations decorated with a very Mexican style and equipped with a great array of amenities
Hotel Mission Palenque.
Palenque, Chiapas.
A hotel built into the forest, since 1987, characterized by elegance, art and service, attributes that this hotel has retained for over 20 years. Its architecture and decoration evoke the classic style, from your room you can see the forest and hear to the singing of all types of birds, and the monkeys.
Hotel Delmar.
Campeche.
Best Western Hotel Del Mar, in Campeche, Campeche, is located in the modern Sea Side walk, only a few blocks from the downtown of one of the most beautiful, ancient cities of Yucatan’s peninsula, a city full of history and colonial architecture. Whether you travel on business or pleasure, be pampered by the magic of the city and their excellent facilities: swimming pool, restaurant, shops and 164 rooms with a view to the sea and the city.
All the rooms feature air conditioning, 27” TV, radio alarm clock, coffee maker, hair dryer and safe deposit box.
Hotel Maria del Carmen.
Merida.
Located in the heart of the city, a few streets from downtown, we can find the Hotel Maria del Carmen for the delight of our visitors. Its privileged location offers business and fun activities a step closer, a 6 story building, 94 rooms, all with modern and comfortable furniture , provides a pleasant stay in Merida.
In Hotel Maria del Carmen you will be able to enjoy the following services and benefits:
Restaurant Bar Room Service Swimming Pool Free High Speed Wireless Internet Security Box Grocery Store.
El Meson Del Marques.
Valladolid.
Meson del Marques Hotel in Valladolid, offers excellent lodging service becoming our best choice in this beautiful city, it is located by the plaza and it has a charming and refreshing pool, also free internet.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.
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Please note: This tour was designed to introduce you to the remote, yet stunning beauty of Southern Mexico. Knowing what to expect will assist you in preparing for this tour and will ultimately make this a more enjoyable vacation. It is important to realize that this corner of Mexico is still remote and rustic. Some of the accommodations and services are basic by American standards. Meal choices may not be as extensive as on other our tours and hotel facilities may be limited. The tour requires walking on uneven surfaces and climbing some stairs. This tour is best enjoyed by the experienced traveler in reasonably good health who can take it in good humor when all the “comforts of home” aren’t readily available. Some parts of the itinerary may be subject to delays or variation due to circumstances beyond our control.
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During your Tour, you’ll have reliable assistance available at all times from an
onsite Program Director. Your Program Director is a resident of Mexico who is
fluent in English and can give you an inside perspective on your destinations. Your Program Director is supported along the way by local tour guides, who will guide you expertly through particular sites and cities.
We are graduates of professional education programs for travel
guides. In addition, we receive specialized training that is based on
what we’ve learned from thousands of past travelers about how to make the trip most enjoyable. Your Program Director offers both a deep knowledge of the region and a commitment to make this a very pleasant, informative, fun and rewarding travel experience for you.
Your Program Director will provide sightseeing trips, handle all travel details and provide any other assistance you may need.
You will be in the company of the Program Director throughout your Escorted Tour all the time.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Passport and Visas
A U.S. citizen needs a passport for this itinerary.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months following your scheduled return to the United States. Also, you must have 1 blank page available in your passport for entry into Mexico. Keep in mind this page must be labeled “Visas” at the top (blank “Amendments and Endorsements” pages are not acceptable). If both of these requirements are not met, you may be refused admittance to Mexico and, consequently, required to return to the U.S.immediately.
Emergency Photocopies
The smartest and easiest security precaution you can take is to carry photocopies of the personal information pages of your passport, your air ticket, and your credit cards. Store them separate from the originals. Bring along extra passport sized
photos. Add phone and fax numbers for reporting lost credit cards, for your travel protection plan company (if you have purchased one), and your medical emergency network. This can save you immeasurable time, money, and bother if your documents are lost or stolen during your trip.
YOUR HEALTH
If you have a condition that requires special equipment or treatment, you must bring and be responsible for all necessary items related to your condition. Please note that this trip is not wheelchair accessible.
MONEY
We do not recommend traveler checks, in Mexico there is no places to exchange them and if they do, they will charge you a commission.
We highly recommend you bring small denominations such as U.S. $1, $5, $10, and $20, as larger bills are less readily accepted or exchanged.
There is no need to obtain local currency before your trip. You can change money at most hotels, and money exchange offices. Please note that torn, dirty, or taped bills may not be accepted.
In some places they won’t take dollars, we recommend you to change some dollars to pesos in the airport of Mexico city after you arrive in a money exchange office.
Also, debit cards give you a reliable payment method and ready access to local currency. We recommend you use a debit card for withdrawals at ATM machines when you need cash, as it will allow you the flexibility of accessing money at your convenience .
Always notify your bank before you leave home that you are going abroad so that they may remove any blocks on your account and also ask them about the number of withdrawals you may make abroad. For cash withdrawals, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s 4-digit PIN (Personal
Identification Number), as many keypads at foreign ATMs do not include letters on their numeric keys, they only display digits.
Note on ATM use: Many banks have begun imposing a fee ranging from $1 to $5 every time you use one.
Credit Cards
Though major American credit cards ( Visa, and MasterCard) are accepted abroad,
always inquire if your type of credit card is accepted before deciding on your purchase. It is also wise to notify the credit card company that you will be using your cards abroad so that they may remove any security block. When using a major credit card you may receive a different exchange rate or an extra tax than if you pay with cash; inquire about the rate first. Please be aware that credit cards might not be accepted for small purchases in the markets. Discover credit card does not operate outside the U.S. Keep your receipts in case you have questions about the conversion or exchange rate.
The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso; 1 peso equals to 100 centavos. Currency
consists of banknotes and coins as follows:
banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 pesos
coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, pesos plus 20 and 50 centavos.
It’s important that you bring a supply of $1 bills for shopping. The locals cannot make
change for large bills. In addition, we recommend that wherever possible you carry your purchases home with you, especially if they are valuable or fragile. (Remember to leave some extra space in your luggage when you are packing for your trip, so you can fit in your vacation purchases.)
Tipping Guidelines
For those of you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines.
All tips below are quoted in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local currency or in U.S. dollars (this is usually preferred) (do not use personal or traveler's check for tips). Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion.
Program Director: It is customary at the end of your trip to express a personal “Thank You” to the Program Director.
We recommend $6-$7 per person, per day. Please note that tips for our Program Directors can only be in the form of cash, in local currency or in U.S. dollars.
Included Group Meals: All the meals are included in this tour so you won’t have to worry about tipping in the restaurants.
Local Guides:
Your program director will let you know if you need to tip the local guides of the area. If this is the case $2-$3 per person for the afternoon will be recommended.
Motor coach Driver:
We recommend $3-$4 per person, per day.
Maids:
All the tips for the maids are included. If you feel like leaving a token of appreciation, then $1 will be recommended.
Bell Boys:
All the tips for the bell boys are included.
LUGGAGE ALLOWENCE.
Due to the limitation of space on motor coach transfers, you'll be restricted to one piece of checked luggage and one carry-on per person. We do not consider a personal effect that you carry yourself (such as a purse or an umbrella) a carry-on.
The restrictions on baggage weight, size, and number of carry-on pieces for your flights will vary among airlines. At time of printing, the current industry standard for most flights is 50 lbs per person for Checked luggage.
CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS.
Pack casual clothes: Comfortable, informal apparel is perfectly acceptable at each of your destinations.
Basic pants, shirts, walking shorts, sportswear, everyday dresses/skirts, supportive shoes, and functional outdoor clothes that are relatively easy to care for are recommended. At dinner, you will not need to wear "dressy" clothing; men do not need jackets or ties and women do not need fancy dresses. You may want
one or two “smart casual” outfits for the Welcome Reception or Farewell Dinner, but it’s completely up to you.
Comfortable, supportive walking shoes are essential: The country's magnificent archaeological sites, churches, museums, markets, and shops truly invite exploration by foot. But negotiating the cobblestone streets and rather uneven sidewalks can be a challenge—even for the most surefooted traveler. For your comfort and safety, you'll need supportive walking shoes.
Rain gear: Regardless of your month of travel, rainfall is certainly a possibility. We suggest you bring a folding umbrella and waterproof shell, preferably with a hood.
RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GEAR:
Inner bags: Use plastic shopping bags, nylon stuff sacks, small zipper duffels, or special mesh bags to separate clothing and gear inside your suitcase, and for dirty laundry. Isolate liquid toiletries in heavy-duty Zip-Loc bags.
luggage tags for all bags: Lock luggage on all flights outside of the U.S.
Sunglasses.
Sunscreen, SPF 15 or stronger
Insect repellent with DEET
Travel money bag or money belt
Moisturizer and lip balm
Swimsuit
Light folding umbrella
Wide-brim sun hat or visor for sun protection
Pocket-size tissues
Packets of moist flushable towels and/or antibacterial "water-free" hand cleanser
Flashlight, extra batteries/bulb
Photocopies of passport, air ticket, credit cards
Your own prescription medicines
Pepto-Bismol or Mylanta
Anti-diarrhea tablets, like Imodium.
Band-Aids
Moleskin foot pads
Neosporin
Travel alarm (wake-up calls are not universally available)
Lightweight binoculars
Hair dryer (this may not be provided in all hotels)
HOW TO MAKE PHONE CALLS TO USA.
The better way to do this, is buying calling cards that are sold in Mexico, (telcel phone cards ) if you purchase a prepaid calling card in USA, it won’t work in Mexico.
Do not call U.S. 1-800 numbers outside United States. This can result in costly long distance fees, since 1-800 numbers do not work outside the country.
Also if you want to make a phone call from your room there is always fees for that, please ask first in the front desk the cost per minute and the cost to connect your phone call.
CELL PHONES:
Please talk to your cell phone company and let them know you are traveling to Mexico and see if they have the service for you. In most of the places only the cell phones of the Mexican company Telcel will work.
WATER IN MEXICO:
Though digestive problems are not uncommon in Mexico, excessive caution is unnecessary if you follow a few basic rules: Do not drink tap water. Use the bottled water in your hotels for drinking and brushing your teeth.
There is going to be complementary bottled water available at all times on the bus.
Water served in the hotel dining room is also safe to drink.
It's best not to eat or drink unrefrigerated dairy products or any food sold by street vendors. Your may want to take along some medicine such as cipro to combat any intestinal problems.
ELECTRIC CURRENT:
Mexico has the same current as in USA, you won’t have any problem using your electric appliances at your vacations in Mexico.
People who visit Mexico rate shopping at the local markets as one of the most rewarding travel experiences they encounter.
Mexican traders do love a good barter, but beware: if they feel you are trying to devalue their goods too much, they will become upset and may even refuse to trade with you.
Bargaining and barter are common activities in Mexico, especially at markets and artifact stores and handicraft workshops.
Never accept the first price you're offered, but be realistic with your offers, and don't become too aggressive with your position.
Speaking Spanish - If you speak Spanish (even broken Spanish) you stand a much better chance of getting a better a deal on your purchases. This another good reason to Learn Spanish in preparation for your next visit to Mexico.
Markets and Street Traders - Mexican market traders are usually polite people who enjoy a good trade negotiation but, equally, they may become offended if you are too obstinate and will simply cease bargaining with you completely. Keep in mind that the people selling arts, crafts and artifacts are generally poor artisans making a simple living and often supporting a family. Some may also be the creators of the wares they are offering for sale, so any deep devaluation of their work might be taken personally, too.
Department Stores, Malls - Department stores and large (chain) hotels will not barter with you—you'll have more luck bartering with the check-out assistant of your local supermarket!
Taxis - Some taxis are not metered (especially in small provincial towns) so strike a bargain with your price before you get in.
CUISINE OF VERACRUZ.
Veracruz is believed to be the birth place of Squash / Pumpkin domestication 6,000 to 8,000 years ago… so all Pumpkin & Squash in the world descends from these domesticates.. and predictably Veracruz’ cuisine features a wide range of summer squash, winter squash, pumpkins etc., in the cuisine. Also importantly Veracruz is the birthplace of Vanilla & Jalapeno chiles.
Beyond agricultural contributions…. it was in 16th Century Veracruz (2 centuries before Europeans really adopted Tomatoes) where the local Tomato-Jalapeno-Wild Onion sauces were married to the Spanish olives, capers & white wine.. to create Salsa Veracruzana… and what many people think of as iconic Mediterranean cuisine.
CUISINE OF CHIAPAS:
The cuisine of Chiapas is varied and rich in flavors and aromas. Chiapanecans take pleasure in eating; and dining is an important part of everyday life. Even death is received with a special mole, typically served on memorial services. Praying is a good excuse for eating Chiapanecan tamales, made with local herbs, spices, and ingredients such as saffron, Dutch cheese, Mexican pepper leaf, longbeak rattlebox weed, mole tamales and more.
Furthermore, each region of Chiapas is known for its typical food and ingredients, for instance, ham comes from San Cristobal, white sausages from Comitan, Dutch cheese from Ocosingo, bean tamales from Tuxtla Chico, and pucsaxe an Zoque Indian beverage, along with 'comida grande' which is a dish made with meat jerky and ground pumpkin seeds and spices comes from Chiapa de Corzo.
Chiapas is also famous for its sweets and traditional candies which are as varied as the cuisine. San Cristobal in known for their sweet potato and quince sweets, in Chiapa de Corzo they make 'suspiros' or 'sighs' which are made with wild yam, and in Tuxtla Gutierrez, they make pucxinu with corn and honey. This extensive variety of candies can be found in restaurants or purchased in the markets, village fairs, and from street vendors.
To complement this state's cuisine, there are refreshing traditional beverages such as tlascalate and pozol, both made with corn and their origins can be traced back to the Pre-Hispanic period.
CUISINE OF YUCATAN:
The Yucatan's culinary delights are based on an exquisite blending of ingredients brought by the Spaniards during the Colony, with subsequent Caribbean and Middle Eastern additions.
For many years, the Yucatan Peninsula was considered a hard-to-reach place because there were very few roads there and it was practically isolated from the rest of the country. Thanks to its ports, this region developed cultural and commercial trading with Cuba, New Orleans and several European countries. This trading influenced the Yucatan in such a way that it turned its cuisine into one of the most renowned in Mexico and the entire world.
This region of Mexico was once known as "the Land of the Pheasant and the Deer", since the meat of both animals were used to a great extent in its cuisine. Nowadays, pheasant and venison have been substituted for turkey and pork respectively, giving birth to delicious dishes such as the very famous "cochinita pibil", which is pork wrapped in banana leaves, pit-baked in achiote sauce, sour orange, and spices, served with plenty of hot corn tortillas to make tacos.
These are some famous dishes of this state:
Panuchos: layered hand-made corn tortillas stuffed with beans, topped with shredded turkey or chicken, lettuce, red onion rings, and "xnipec" salsa (made of Habanero peppers, tomatoes, sour orange juice and salt).
Papadzules: chopped hard-boiled eggs wrapped in corn tortillas soaked in a pumpkin seed salsa, topped with tomato sauce and chopped Habanero pepper.
Lime Soup: a chicken or turkey vegetable soup flavored with lime and made nicely hot with a touch of Habanero pepper.
Chilmole: turkey in a dark spicy sauce.
Queso relleno: a mild yellow cheese stuffed with minced meat, served in round slices covered in cream sauce.
Poc-chuc: charbroiled slices of pork with onions, marinated in a tasty sour orange sauce.
Pescado Tikinxic: fish marinated in achiote sauce, wrapped in banana leaves and charbroiled, served with a delicious sauce made of tomato and Habanero pepper.
Habaneros and recados are the basic ingredients in Yucatecan cuisine. "Recados" are marinated pastes made of cloves, black pepper, oregano, cumin, garlic, coriander and vinegar. The most common "recado" is the red, which gets its color from adding "achiote" (annatto seeds) to the mixture, and it is the main ingredient of all the Pibil style dishes (Cochinita pibil, Pollo pibil and Pescado Tikinxic).
WEATHER:
IN MEXICO CITY: México City is located on México's high central plateau and because of the high altitude (over 7000 feet) the city enjoys a relatively mild climate all year. Summer and winter both are generally mild. The evenings can get cool enough for a jacket all year long, so be prepared. Afternoon rains come during the summer months, June to September. Usually the rain lasts for a few hours after which the sun comes out and the air is much cleaner.
October to May are, most often, the driest months and February to May are the warmest months.
IN VERACRUZ: Warm Humid: it is dominant in 80 percent of the territory of Veracruz; it is present from the coastal plains of the Northern and Southern Gulfs up to a maximum height of 3000 feet. Here the annual average temperature is of 88º Fahrenheit, with a minimum of 66º Fahrenheit; pluvial precipitations can be unleashed at anytime of the year.
Semi Warm Humid: it is proper of the Cities of Tlapacoyan, Xalapa and Orizaba, located at heights of between 3000 and 4500 feet; in these zones the average temperature fluctuates between 66º and 74º Fahrenheit; rain showers are constant throughout the year.
IN CATEMACO: Temperatures are fairly uniform and best described as often hot and frequently humid.
Nights are generally balmy.As for "generally", a low temperature of 69 degrees F during the winter may not sound cold to you, but combine that with a little north wind and any southerner will freeze off his proverbial donkey.Temperatures drop a little more than 2 degrees for every 656 feet of altitude and historically snow has been seen on the highest volcano. The hottest month is May, averaging 91f high temperatures, with January being the coolest, averaging 63f low temperatures. Generally the swing between high and low is 8-14 degrees, although an incoming north wind can change that by more than 15 degrees within minutes.Rainfall is highly variable because of terrain features. Within a mile, rain total may differ 200%. Catemaco happens to be one of the drier and cooler places in Veracruz.
The wet season extends from mid June to December, with most rain occurring July to October.Fairly dry months are expected January through May, with April & May the driest.
So when is a good time to visit?
Anytime! The weather is rarely nasty more than a few days.
So when is a good time to visit?
Anytime! The weather is rarely nasty more than a few days.
SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS: San Cristóbal de Las Casas and Los Altos de Chiapas – the state’s central highlands, mostly 6600f to 9000f high – have a very temperate climate. Daytime temperatures are usually warm, but evenings can get incredibly cold between November and February, when you’ll want a good jacket to ward off chills.
PALENQUE: Palenque has jungle weather: extremely hot and humid. Dress with light clothes that allow your skin to breathe; natural fibers (cotton) are best; avoid synthetics (e.g. polyester) and denim as you'll feel very uncomfortable wearing them in this jungle climate. Bring sun screen, insect repellent and a hat. Carry plenty of water and stay well hydrated at all times.
CAMPECHE: The average annual temperature in the Yucatan Peninsula is 26.5° C, summers are hot, hot, hot, with trade winds cooling the air and winters are even pleasant. With an average of 240 days of sunshine per year, Campeche offers the best weather among all the Caribbean destinations. Ocean Water temperature stays between 80 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. Rainy season goes from June through October with an average of only 58 days of rain during an entire year, during the first months of the rainy season (June - September), you can have some fast and short showers. In October you can see some heavy rain days, Hurricane season is the same as all the Caribbean destinations, from June through November.
MERIDA: Is very flat, and very close to sea level, so temperatures are quite warm throughout the year. Temperatures inland are somewhat higher than on the coast. Annual precipitation varies from 60 inches (1524 mm) along the Mayan Riviera to half that - about 30 inches (777 mm) - in Merida, falling mostly between June and September.The hottest months are July and August with 90f high and 78f Low’s.
ABOUT US ..
We are a group of program directors who worked with foreign tourists for more than 20 years, discovering Mexico right through our cultural traditions and gastronomy, all this time we showed how beautiful our country and hospitable people can be, giving personal attention and comfort with high safety standards through our adventure.
We all have a permanent training program, which reaffirms the commitment we have made with our passengers to offer only the best, at a great value.
Much has been talked about Mexico and many companies have abandoned this amazing country,
That allows us to continue showing you with pride, and through our work, how beautiful and safe it is still .
LUPITA GARCIA.
Born in: Chihuahua, Mexico
Currently resides in: Tijuana, Mexico.
Has worked in companies like :
Grand Circle Travel, 10 years.
Student City, for 7 years.
Grand Circle Travel, 10 years.
Student City, for 7 years.
Languages: Spanish, English
Education: Studied business administration at a university in Chihuahua
Hobbies/Special interests: Spending time with her husband and sun, dancing, drinking coffee, going out with friends, showing her beautiful country, making new friends.
Interesting Fact about Lupita: She’s incredibly proud of her heritage. “I’m so lucky to have grown up in Mexico,” she says, “because my country has one of the most beautiful cultures in the world.” In addition to its delicious food, picture-postcard beaches, and scenic countryside, Lupita says the best thing about Mexico is its people: “Mexicans are very kind and cheerful. We always try to find the best side of things, even in the worst moments.”
CARLOS PEREZ CUEVAS “CHARLIE”
Licensed billingual Tour Guide and Tour Director, years of experience working for several U.S. based tour companies. Such as Brennan Tours, Grand Circle Travel and currently Caravan Tours.
Enjoy his family, reading history, music and films. And consider himself fortunate of his profession wich allows him to show what he calls the other Mexico, the one that you don’t see on the news, the one of good hard working people, and the one of fascinating history and culture.
ALFONSO BAYARDO “PONCHO”
Born in : Guadalajara Jalisco.
Currently resides in: Guadalajara.
Has worked in companies like :
DIVE PALANCAR; Cozumel & Playa del Carmen. 10 years
GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL 8 years.
VANTAGE TRAVEL 3 years.
Languages : English/Spanish.
Interesting Facts about Poncho:
44 years old, married and with a beautiful son; Carlo...
Studies :He became an Agriculture Engineer in college and his thesis was about Tequila due to the reason that he is from the Land of Mariachis, Tequila and Charros, the city of Guadalajara, Jalisco.
25 five years on the travel business, he started as a diver in Cancun where eventually he become a Master Instructor and lived in Playa de Carmen, in the diving business he travelled all around beach resorts in Mexico; also in Costa Rica, Galapagos Islands and Key Largo in Florida.
He started as a certified tour guide in his home city in the year 2000 and after 11 years he has guide all over Mexico.
He is fun, expert in history and cultural traditions of Mexico and has very good communication skills.
Interesting Facts about Poncho:
44 years old, married and with a beautiful son; Carlo...
Studies :He became an Agriculture Engineer in college and his thesis was about Tequila due to the reason that he is from the Land of Mariachis, Tequila and Charros, the city of Guadalajara, Jalisco.
25 five years on the travel business, he started as a diver in Cancun where eventually he become a Master Instructor and lived in Playa de Carmen, in the diving business he travelled all around beach resorts in Mexico; also in Costa Rica, Galapagos Islands and Key Largo in Florida.
He started as a certified tour guide in his home city in the year 2000 and after 11 years he has guide all over Mexico.
He is fun, expert in history and cultural traditions of Mexico and has very good communication skills.
Always there for the passengers needs!
