Mexico

Mexico has become a major tourist destination, especially for its almost 6,000 miles (10,000 km) of beaches and popular coastal resorts such as Acapulco, Cancun, Cozumel, Mazatlan, Manzanillo, Cabo S. Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.  Mexico also has many dormant and active volcanoes, with Volcan Orizaba being the third highest mountain in N. America.  The Yucatan Peninsula is an area of tropical jungle, bordering with Central American countries.  There are more than one hundred rivers, but the largest, the Rio Grande, runs from Colorado all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico.
 
The Yucatan peninsula is known for its Mayan culture and roots and lovely weather.  Some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the world is to be found in Cozumel and Cancun on the Riviera Maya, as well as fantastic weather.

The Baja Peninsula is a popular destination, especially among Americans on the west coast where access by air takes just a short flight.  Be warned that the popular beach resorts in Mexico are highly popular with partying U.S. college students during Spring Break (varies between February-April).
Those seeking an active holiday will find that Mexico has plenty to offer, with all types of water sports, great scuba diving, sailing, excellent golf courses, and lots of mountains for hiking.

Visitors to Mexico are advised to check the latest travel advisories before travelling to Mexico.  At the time of writing (March 2009) the Foreign and Commonwealth office (FCO) have issued a caution to visitors, especially those with plans to cross the border from the U.S. into Mexico.  Drug-related crime is becoming an increasing problem, especially in the border areas.  There were thousands of drug-related deaths in Mexico during 2008, and although tourists are not a particular target, they should avoid displaying wealth and stay in the busy tourist resorts and areas.  The problems with drug-related crime are believed to be compounded by the existence of bribery and corruption affecting government officials.  Visitors should use common sense and take precautions such as leaving their travel itinerary with family or friends and check that their mobile phone roaming function will operate in Mexico.

Visitors wishing to cross the U.S. border into Mexico under the 90 Day Visa Waiver Program must make sure they have also obtained authorisation under the new Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).  The new law requires visitors to the U.S. to register with ESTA at least 72 hours before the date of travel. (Web Site)

President:                Felipe Calderon (current in 2009)
Population:              108,700,000 (approx.)
Currency:                Mexican Peso
Capital:                   Mexico City
International Calling Code:  011-52
Time Zone:              UTC/GMT -6 hours

Climate:  The Tropic of Cancer divides Mexico into tropical and temperate weather zones, with cooler temperatures in the north during winter, and consistently warm temperatures, with more rainfall, to the south - depending on the elevation.

Useful Link:  Visit Mexico

Disclaimer: While we have tried to ensure this information is correct we do not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy.

* Inclusion on this guide does not guarantee travel insurance is available in this country at any given time. Travel Insurance is not available in countries for which the F.C.O. advise against travel to.

** At the time of writing, the F.C.O. advised against travel to countries, or areas thereof, marked thus at the time of writing. Travel Insurance is not available in areas where the F.C.O. advise against travel to.

You are strongly advised to visit the F.C.O. web site for up to date information and general travel advice before you travel.