Mexico continues to be one of the world's most-visited destinations and for good reason.
This dynamic destination appeals to travelers of all types as it can offer a tropical paradise with singular landscapes, unmatched history, unique culture, world-class sports and entertainment and remarkable flavors from street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants.
No two trips to Mexico are ever the same, unless you want them to be.
But before you go, it's important to know what to expect.
Travel Documents Required to Visit Mexico
A beautiful day on the beach in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Patrick Clarke)
Travelers exploring Mexico will, of course, require a valid passport.
Assuming you're visiting as a tourist on vacation, you'll also need to have proof of a hotel reservation and a return flight.
Travel advisor Lori Gold of Explore More Mexico reminds travelers that "the Cancun arrival process has been simplified, and you no longer need to fill out an immigration form (paper or digital) prior to or on arrival."
Arrivals have two options, including standard immigration lines where they can speak to an agent and have their passport stamped and electronic passport control machines, which are only available for those 18 years old and up. Those choosing the latter can enter and scan their passport, wait for their photo to be taken and collect their receipt with a QR code. Travelers should hang on to their QR code receipt until departure.
Travelers flying into Cancun International Airport's Terminal 2 will have their baggage scanned after they secure it and it may or may not be searched.
Meanwhile, those flying into Terminal 3 or 4 will pick up their bags at the carousel after clearing immigration and may or may not be selected to have their bags checked.
Gold reminds travelers that there are "no forms for entry in any of the three main passenger terminals. This has been replaced by a stamp in the passport showing the duration of the allowed stay."
Mexico Entry Fees
Visitors to Quintana Roo, which includes premier tourist destinations like Cancun and Riviera Maya, will also need to pay a mandatory tourist tax known as VISITAX.
The charge—roughly $15 depending on exchange rates—can be paid online via Visa, Mastercard or Amex, with the funds collected being put toward maintaining and improving the region's tourism infrastructure.
El Mirador Bar at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos. (Photo Credit: Patrick Clarke)
Baja California Sur, home to Los Cabos, La Paz, Loreto, and other popular places, introduced a mandatory tourism tax on international travelers staying more than 24 hours on July 1. The $25 fee is part of an initiative called Embrace IT, with funds being used to bolster local development, sustainability projects and destination initiatives.
For added peace of mind, consider working with a trusted travel advisor who can get you squared away with any and all fees and steer you clear of scams so you can simply enjoy your trip.
Traveling With Electronics in Mexico
Officials recently eliminated a controversial policy that charged travelers extra fees for bringing more than one large electronic device such as a laptop or tablet into Cancun.
Some travelers had reported fees as high as $190 so this change is a welcome one for visitors to one of the country's most popular destinations, providing added peace of mind when packing.
Safety and Security in Mexico
Mexico receives a Level 2 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department heading into the fall, putting it on par with most of the world's most popular countries.
Travelers are advised to exercise increased caution due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping. The vast majority of Mexico's top tourist destinations are safe to visit, with states and regions like Baja California Sur, Mexico City, Nayarit and Quintana Roo falling under the Level 2 umbrella.
Make Your Mexico Plans
With shoulder season in full swing, there's never been a better time to book a getaway to Mexico, whether you're a seasoned traveler or a travel advisor hoping to craft your client's ideal vacation.
Travelers can find awesome deals on flights, premier hotels, resorts, tours and other experiences across the country this fall season.
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