Mexico

Mexico warmly welcomes travellers from every corner of the globe, especially Americans, who come to sample a classic fusion of rich history alongside the contrasting, frenetic towns like Mexico City and Acapulco.

The beaches on the Caribbean coast are among the finest in the world boasting the world's second largest coral reef which Jacques Cousteau first brought to our attention.

To travel to Mexico and not retrace the steps of the ancient civilisations would be an absolute crime - especially as so many of the sites and ancient mysteries have survived for thousands of years.

The myths and secrets of the Aztecs and Mayans are as dark as the jungle that shrouds them.

Note: Children under the age of 18 are subject to specific rules for visiting the Dominican Republic; if the child is travelling with only one parent, notarized consent must be obtained from the other. If the child is travelling without either of their parents, notarized permission must be obtained from both parents. Anyone failing to provide the correct documentation may be refused entry.

Note: Tipping is a way of life which starts as soon as you step off the plane

Note: Poverty can be seen in parts of the cities and begging is not uncommon outside the tourist areas

• The beaches are patrolled by the police in 4-wheel drives. Many hotels patrolled by armed security guards.
• Taxis are plentiful in the resorts; negotiate the cost of the journey before getting in
• The sea temperature is pleasant throughout the year and hots up in late August. The coolest time is December to March.
• The Caribbean weather is unpredictable. June to November is the hurricane season and short sharp tropical storms occur most afternoons.
• Heavy downpours often cause power cuts and poor road conditions.

Weather: Tropical storms are common especially between June and November. Most of the time they are nothing more than heavy downpours, but occasionally one might develop into a hurricane. Humidity is at its highest from August to October

Excursions:

Enjoy Mexico with a good guide book

• Tulum - Mexico's most photographed archaeological ruin thanks to its Caribbean backdrop; it is visited by scores of tour buses every day and can easily be viewed in a couple of hours. A recent addition to the site's original 1200AD structure is a visitor centre and a cafeteria.

• Chitchen Itza - the most popular tourist attraction in the Yucatan covering 4-square miles. The centre-piece is the Pyramid of Kulkulkan which is climbed by hordes of tourists every day.
• Xel - Ha - snorkeling at the largest natural aquarium in the world, teeming with exotic and stunning sealife. This trip is usually combined with the coach trip to Tulum
• Wet and Wild Water Park - located just outside Cancun, Wet 'n Wild is a family-focused theme with thrill slides like the Kamikaze, a wave pool and the relaxing 'Lazy River'. For younger one there's an exciting playground.
• Xcaret - a purpose-built 'eco-archaeological' theme park which has been developed next to an well-preserved ancient ruin. The tour includes swimming with dolphins, dolphin shows, tropical birds, bat caves and snorkeling. Allow at least one full-day.