A First-Timer's Guide to Mexico

So you've made the decision to go to Mexico. FELICIDADES. May I be the first to congratulate you on a brilliant life choice. You're about to discover a country that is one of the most diverse in the world, with more than 60 languages spoken, world-class beaches, some of the tallest peaks in the world, ancient cultures, mystic traditions, underground rivers, jungles, food...I can go on and on. It just happens to be one of my most favorite places in the world (in case you are new and are not already aware). Believe it or not, there are still a ton of people in my social circle who have never been. NEVER. I get asked a ton of questions both in person and via social media about Mexico, so to put it all in one neat package for all of you Mexi-virgins out there, here are the things you need to know before visiting Mexico.

Is Mexico safe?

Yes, this is the number one question I get asked about travel to Mexico. And with headlines peppered with trigger words like 'cartel,' 'hurricane,' and 'kidnapping,' it's no wonder people are a little hesitant. So allow me to give you a resounding answer: YES. It is absolutely safe to travel to Mexico.

I live there roughly six months out of the year, after a long history of visits (we're in triple digits at this point). Do you know how many times I've been robbed, held at gunpoint, witness to a crime, or gotten food poisoning? Zero. And I'm not even a 'sensible' traveler. I talk to strangers and I use unmarked ATMs, and I use condiments in UNSEALED containers.

Are there problems in Mexico? Yep. There are serious cartel issues in many parts of the country -- especially the Central Northern border and the states of Guerrero and Michoacan on the Pacific Coast. Truth be told, the cartel is kind of everywhere. But you're not going where the cartel goes. And even if you did, you'd probably be okay provided you don't try to score meth. And frankly, that's just good life advice in general.

When is the best time to visit Mexico?

Literally anytime. But keep in mind that high season runs from December through Easter. From May through September most Mexican beach destinations fluctuate between really busy and dead - it's hot and humid, but also everyone is on summer break. Along the Caribbean coast, hurricane season is from September to early November.

If you're visiting a big city (like Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, Merida, or Oaxaca), any time of year works. In Mexico City, which is at an elevation of more than 7,000 feet, temperatures can get down to freezing (yes, freezing) in winter.

What are the best vacation spots in Mexico?

Well, what are you looking for? I ask this because Mexico has something for absolutely everyone. The beaches with the best tourism infrastructure, facilities, and airport access are Cancun/Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta. For a city escape with culture, history, incredible food, and the colonial vibe, head to Mexico City, Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende, Merida, Mazatlan, and San Cristobal de las Casas.

But if you're looking for raw, natural beauty beyond the popular beaches, consider San Cristobal de Las Casas, a mountain town that sits in the highlands of Chiapas. It's home to tribes that still practice mysticism, as well as the Sumidero Canyon National Park. The iconic train ride through Copper Canyon in northern Mexico is another excellent option --it's even deeper and, some might say, more spectacular than our Grand Canyon.

Okay, but about those beaches….

Yes, Mexico has spectacular ones. In fact, Mexico has more than 5,800 miles of coastline. With that comes a LOT of beaches. Of course, not all beaches are created equal. The coast of Quintana Roo is where you're going to go for the most luxurious beaches in all of Mexico. These powder-white, tourist-friendly stretches are at their best from Cancun all the way down past Tulum into Mahahual. Accommodations range from five-star resorts down to backpacker-budget hotels.

For ultimate luxury, head to Los Cabos. Though swimming isn't always safe on the beaches there, the resorts tend to make up for that with stunning infinity pools. For low-key surfer town vibes, head to the Oaxaca coast (Puerto Escondido, Mazunte, and Zipolite in particular). For hidden coves and tiny beach towns, Riviera Nayarit. For rustic, under-the-radar beaches? Well, wait for that blog post.

Is Cancun just a tourist trap?

I mean...yes? The Hotel Zone is exactly that - 17 miles of all-inclusive hotels, party clubs, restaurants, bars, souvenir stalls, and not a whole lot of Mexicans. But Cancun, the city itself, as well as the surrounding areas of Quintana Too still have wonderful, off-the-beaten-path spots to discover. Consider Bacalar, a town about four hours to the south, which is home to the second largest lake in Mexico. The dazzling water changes colors throughout the day, giving it the nickname the Lake of Seven Colors. There is also Mahahual, a beach town on the border of Belize that oozes lad-back, bohemian charm. And in the jungles, travelers can find nature tours that take them into Mayan communities, where the Mayan language is still spoken and the locals still practice many of the same rituals that have been handed down for generations.

What are Mexico's best cities?

Mexico City, for one. It's one of the greatest cities in the world. It's also one of the largest, with a population that hovers around 20 million. Its history dates back to the Aztecs, who founded it on a lake in 1325, and then the Spanish conquered it in the early 16th century. Today, a vibrant, art-forward culture has plastered the city with modern architecture, murals, sleek cocktail bars, and some of the most delicious food you'll ever taste. Just take a walk through the streets and it's entirely possible to se Ean Aztec ruin next to a baroque townhouse next to a five-star hotel.

Rising in the ranks as a destination in its own right is Merida, the capital of the state of Yucatan. It's a colonial gem, just a few hours north of Cancun, much smaller than Mexico City, but still packed with culture, art, and a sizzling restaurant and bar scene.

San Miguel de Allende is a favorite for Americans. Roughly 10,000 expats live there full-time now, and it has been voted Travel + Leisure's favorite city in the world for the last two years. The reason? It's visually stunning. The entire city is a UNESCO Heritage Site. But if you want my personal opinion: if you want to experience something decidedly more, well, Mexican, hit up Guanajuato City instead.

Oaxaca (the city, as well as the state) is a foodie heaven. Most of the dishes that we consider to be classic "Mexican" come from here. There are literally dozens of flavors of mole (and how can forget that sweet, sweet mezcal). Other cities in Mexico have their own specialties, like ceviche in Puerto Vallarta, cochinita pibil in Quintana Too, or rich chocolate and coffee in Chiapas.

Guadalajara is Mexico's second most populated city ,and the home to two Mexican classics: tequila and mariachi. Tequila comes from the eponymous city, which is just outside Guadalajara. And no, I'm not talking about Cuervo (although the Cuervo headquarters are located there and if you get actual, quality Cuervo you might not have college PTSD).

What are the best ruins in Mexico?

Mexico has a history that extends well beyond the scope of the Mayan and Aztec worlds. There are many, many pre-Hispanic, indigenous cultures that have lived on Mexican soil, such as the Zapotecs, Olmecs, Toltecs, and Huichols. The most famous archaeological sites in Mexico are the Mayan sties of Chichen Itza and Tulum, as well sat he Aztec site Teotihuacan.

But there are so many other ruins that are just as impressive, minus all the crowds. Monte Alban, a Zapotec city home to spectacular pyramids, temples, and plazas, sits 1,300 feet above the Oaxaca Valley with a backdrop of towering mountains. In the state of Chiapas, Palenque is one of the most important Mayan sites, and one of the best preserved. It sits at the base of the Tumbala mountains, on the Usumacinta River, deep in the jungle. In the Campeche jungles is Calakmul, which was discovered in 1931. Only a small bit of this impressive site has been uncovered, but it is said that the city thrived for more than 1,000 years and has more than 6,000 buildings.

What's the best way to get around Mexico?

Mexico has really great low-cost carriers, like Volaris and Viva Aerbus. But the bus system in Mexico is also top-notch, with five-star quality buses that are safe and comfortable. I've spent months backpacking around Mexico using the bus system -- its a fantastic, cost-effective way to see the whole country.

Do you need a visa to visit Mexico?

Americans do not. However the maximum amount of time you can stay there without a vista is six months. When you arrive in Mexico you are handed an exit ticket. Do you not lose this ticket. You'll have to pay like $30 when you leave if you do, plus it can be a paperwork nightmare depending on the airport and the mood of the immigration agent.

Do you need to know Spanish in Mexico?

Need is a strong word. It's certainly helpful, not to mention the right thing to do, to try to speak a few words and phrases in the native language of the country you are visiting. In popular tourist areas, English is widely spoken and chances are the locals can speak better English than you can Spanish. That said, locals appreciate when visitors try to practice, and they are more than patient. But the more remote a destination is, the greater the struggle to communicate.

Cash or credit in Mexico?

Depends on the destination. More and more places are accepting plastic. But cash is always better.

Do you tip in Mexico?

Si! But unlike the mandatory 20% in the States, 10-15% is just fine. Fifteen percent is REALLY nice.

Is it safe to drink the water in Mexico?

Newp. Don't do it. Not even the locals do it. Restaurants and hotels use filtered water in restaurants, so you'll be fine there. Ice is also filtered.

J. Elizabeth Photography

Street food?

Do it.

Is it safe for women traveling alone in Mexico?

If it isn't then I've been living on the edge for the better part of a decade. Truthfully you will be totally fine. Stay savvy and alert, same as if you're stumbling home at 3am in New York City. Going to seedy neighborhoods, traveling alone at night, or drinking too much are always bad ideas, no matter where you are.

Is Mexico LGBT-friendly?

You will have no problem. Mexico is one of the most tolerant countries. In fact, gay marriage and adoption for gay couples is legal in many Mexican states.

Did I miss your question? Drop me a line in the comments, on social or in an email and I will add it to the list! For now, I hope you enjoy your first trip to Mexico. I guarantee it will get into your skin and there will be no turning back.

Mexico Pro Tips

• Mexico is a safe, friendly, and easily traveled destination.

• You can find everything in Mexico, from beautiful beaches to deep jungles, mountains to climb, deserts to explore, mangrove forests, rivers, lakes, world-class cities, and tiny villages.

• There are more ruins in Mexico beyond Chichen Itza and Tulum. There are literally hundreds of archaeological sites.

• There are beaches in Mexico you’ve never even heard of, and you should definitely explore them.

• Eat the street food in Mexico. Do not drink the water in Mexico.

• Don’t be racist. Mexico is a fabulous country and it will blow your mind.