Citizens of the US, European Union countries, Australia, and Canada are not required to apply for a visa if their visit to Mexico does not exceed 180 days. However, they may be requested to provide evidence of a return ticket. Nationals from the aforementioned countries will be provided with a Blue Tourist Card upon entering Mexico. Citizens of all other countries should check current visa requirements in advance of travel via Mexico Visa at http:/mexico.visahq.com/.

Health and Safety

While Mexico is often portrayed as a dangerous place to visit, there have been improvements regards the safety of the country’s tourist destinations in recent years. The major cities are fairly safe, as long as you exercise caution. Bag-snatching and robberies are most common in tourist areas, such as the capital’s Zona Rosa, Bosque de Chapultepec, and around the National Museum of Anthropology.

Avoid carrying handbags and other items that can be easily grabbed. Pickpockets tend to function in busy areas, such as on the metro and in crowds, so make sure to keep your valuables in a money belt, underneath layers of clothing. It is a good idea to avoid carrying large amounts of money and ATM cards. If you are robbed, don’t resist otherwise the situation may be aggravated further.

Make sure to have the number of a reliable taxi firm to call and don’t be tempted to flag down a cab on the street. Although most are safe in Mexico, there are frequent reports of taxi-related muggings and violence. Expect to see poverty and beggars in most places, particularly around the popular tourist attractions.

Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations such as typhoid and hepatitis A and B are up to date before travel. Some areas of Mexico are affected by malaria and dengue fever, both of which are contracted through infected mosquitoes, so preventative measures should be taken when visiting high risk regions. Visitors should ensure all food is thoroughly cooked and only drink bottled water.