The Good Trip guide · For U.S. travelers
MexicoA little local knowledge.
Savor rich culture, ancient ruins, and world-famous cuisine from coast to coast.
Do not drink the tap water.
Ambulance: 911
Mexican Peso
Exercise Increased Caution
Essential Etiquette in Mexico
Key dos and don'ts every American traveler should know before arriving.
Use formal titles when appropriate
Address people with titles like 'Señor', 'Señora', or professional titles like 'Doctor' or 'Licenciado' until invited to use first names. It shows respect and is especially appreciated in formal settings.
Don't rush conversations
Mexicans value warm, personal connections. Jumping straight to business without small talk is considered cold and rude. Always ask about someone's family or well-being before getting to the point.
Dress modestly at churches
Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches, cathedrals, and religious sites. Many will deny entry or offer a shawl if you are not dressed appropriately.
Don't use the 'OK' hand gesture
The 'OK' hand sign (fingers forming a circle) can be considered obscene in Mexico. Use a thumbs-up instead.
Essential Spanish Phrases
Respectful expressions with phonetic pronunciations to help you connect with locals.
"Hello"
"Thank you"
"Sorry / Excuse me"
"Please"
Take all 66 phrases and offline audio with you in Good Trip.
Water & pharmacies
Do not drink the tap water
TAP WATER: DO NOT DRINK anywhere in Mexico. Use bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, and ice. Bottled water widely available (Ciel, Bonafont, Epura — check seal intact).
Local Pharmacy Rules
Many medications available over-the-counter that require a prescription in the US. Risk of counterfeit medications exists. Stick to reputable chains like Farmacias del Ahorro or Farmacias Similares.
Apps to Download Before Flying to Mexico
Useful apps for transit, navigation, and food delivery in Mexico.
Uber
Uber is widely used across Mexico's major cities including Mexico City, Cancún, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Playa del Carmen, and more. It's the most familiar rideshare option for American tourists, with the same account and payment methods you already use at home. Offers upfront pricing, real-time tracking, and multiple ride tiers.
DiDi Rider: Affordable rides
DiDi is extremely popular in Mexico and often cheaper than Uber. It operates in over 50 cities across the country and offers rideshare, taxi, delivery, and food ordering services. Many locals prefer DiDi for its lower fares, making it a great budget-friendly option for tourists as well.
ADO - Boletos de Autobús
ADO is Mexico's premier long-distance bus company, operating luxury and first-class bus services across the country. The app lets you search routes, compare schedules, and buy tickets directly from your phone. ADO buses are known for being safe, comfortable, and punctual — the preferred way to travel between cities in Mexico, especially in the south and southeast (Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puebla, Cancún, Mérida, Veracruz).
Emergency Contacts & U.S. Embassy
If you lose your passport, need urgent medical evacuation, or encounter legal trouble, keep this info accessible offline.
U.S. Embassy Mexico City
Paseo de la Reforma 305, Cuauhtémoc, 06600 Mexico City, CDMX
Field Guides & Dispatches for Mexico
This preview comes from the Good Trip country guide. Conditions and travel advisories can change. Check the latest U.S. State Department advice before departure.
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