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Entrance into Mexico

You must present a passport or birth certificate with the raised county seal (no photo copies) and photo i.d. to the airline during check in to be admitted into Mexico. Married women are also required to have a copy of their marriage license. Single parents traveling with minor children need a notarized letter giving permission to leave the country from the other parent.

Arrival in Mexico:

You will first present your papers at Immigration, then pick up your luggage. You will then proceed to the customs check point which is the "Stop and Go". You press the button and if the light turns green you walk right through, if it is red you will be asked to step aside and your bags may be inspected.

What to Pack:

Bathing Suits, Sunglasses, Suntan Lotion, Sun Hat and a Lightweight Windbreaker, Sweater or Shawl. Bring your Diver Certification if you have it. Also bring your own SCUBA or SNORKELING gear if you have it. If not you can rent it in Akumal. Bring one pair of comfortable rubber soled shoes for climbing Mayan pyramids, walking and tennis. Camera & Film, A small Flashlight and one Beach Towel Shorts and lightweight shirts, one lightweight pair of long pants, socks and insect repellent for jungle treks.

Ladies:

One or two casual sundresses or skirts if you like to dress up for dinner. (you can buy colorful ethnic clothing at the boutiques in the area) After you finish packing....unpack half of what you packed and leave it behind. You'll be happy you did and will not miss it!

Location of Pemex Gas Stations:

Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum - Don't fill up your tank, request a specific amount of pesos for the most accurate transaction.

Money Tips:

It is best to exchange your money into pesos at a bank in Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum or Puerto Aventuras.  Many of these towns have ATM machines that will give good exchange rates.

Is the water safe?

Many people are concerned about the drinking water situation in the Yucatan. Bottled water is readily available. All hotels and rental establishments will provide purified drinking water. All restaurants in the area at the major resorts wash their produce, ect. in purified water. All ice is also made with purified water.

Beach Health Tips:

The sun can be very intense in Mexico. It is best that you use sunscreen before you even venture into the sun. A bad burn can ruin a vacation. A hat and sunglasses are also a must for the seasoned sun bather. Sunscreen is a wonderful thing, it protects our bodies but it is not allowed if you plan on entering a cenote, caleta or lagoon. Sunscreen is prohibited in Yal-Ku lagoon in Akumal. Wear a t-shirt instead!

Bad Stomach:

If you do become ill with montezuma's revenge the very best remedy is the following recipe. It works every time. Squeeze the juice of 2 fresh limes into a glass, add a good size pinch of salt and down like a shot. Symptoms will ease in about an hour, if it has not stopped in 2 hours repeat the treatment, you will feel much better by the next day. Lime will kill bacteria and microbes in your system. It is also served with most meals, use liberally.

Driving:
Driving on HWY 307 can be a interesting experience. Stay within the speed limit and drive carefully. If you see a car ahead of you with its left blinker on that is decreasing speed, this can mean please feel free to pass, or I am making a left turn so pay attention. To be on the safe side - When making a left hand turn - put on your blinker and pull over the right - wait for all traffic to pass and then turn left. Since the highway is now complete to Tulum it is not as dangerous at night, one should still pay special attention at dusk as animals do move through the jungle and cross the road at that time.

Grocery Stores:

There is a large super market in Playa Del Carmen. Akumal has two small groceries, the Super Chomak and a local Mayan store across the street at the entrance to the Akumal Arch. There is also a fresh produce market that sets up here on Saturday and Wednesday. In Tulum, you will find a great american style supermarket. If you are economy minded you may visit the Superior beer store in Tulum, you can buy cases of beer and sodas in bottles. A bottle deposit is required so it is best to return your empties.

Transportation:

Most tourists who are exploring the Mayan Riviera are driving rental cars. If you choose not to rent a car you will find many taxis at the airport who will be happy to take you to your destination. You may also utilize the public bus system, the Mayab. These buses run up and down the tourist corridor on a regular basis. Very inexpensive. If transportation to Akumal is required you may arrange to be picked up by TSA at the airport in advance.