I read this article and couldn't believe it: You can be a passenger on a cargo ship.
I am going to try this -- it seems like a great way to go. But I think I will have to wait for the kids to go to college :)
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Great Experience On Volaris
I admit it: I am a jaded airline traveler.
That's why I was so surprised on my recent Volaris flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Toluca, Mexico (near Mexico city).
First of all, what a great deal. $200/rt with taxes. Wow! Not all seats are at this price, but it is a great deal.
But the price isn't what was amazing. A few things happened that blew my mind:
The downside is the flight is into Toluca, which is about a 45 minute drive from the northern edge of Mexico city.
On arrival to Toluca, you can take a MX$20 (about US$1.50) comfortable bus to Santa Fe in Mexico City. There is a movie on the bus. On the way back we chose to take a cab from Condesa to Toluca (MX$450, about US$39).
Also note that in LAX, you don't arrive or leave from the Bradley International Terminal. This is nice because the customs area seemed smaller and less busy than the huge one at the other terminal (where the giant 747's from Asia unload huge amounts of passengers).
Volaris. I recommend them.
That's why I was so surprised on my recent Volaris flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Toluca, Mexico (near Mexico city).
First of all, what a great deal. $200/rt with taxes. Wow! Not all seats are at this price, but it is a great deal.
But the price isn't what was amazing. A few things happened that blew my mind:
- First of all, after everyone was seated, the pilot walked down the aisle and greeted every-single passenger. Amazing! This is instead of hiding in the cockpit and trying to stay as far away from the general public as possible.
- Then the pilot went up to the front of the cabin and greeted all the passengers again over the announcement system. NOT FROM THE COCKPIT! He stood at the front of the cabin and told everyone how long the flight would be, what the weather would be like, and that we should expect to be a little early. He actually got applause from all the passengers. Again, amazing!
- One final part of this great deal: The pilot announced the "late flight policy" for the airline. Basically, if the flight is late, you get a free flight. I wasn't clear on the exact definition of late, but it sounded as if he meant more than 30 minutes.
The downside is the flight is into Toluca, which is about a 45 minute drive from the northern edge of Mexico city.
On arrival to Toluca, you can take a MX$20 (about US$1.50) comfortable bus to Santa Fe in Mexico City. There is a movie on the bus. On the way back we chose to take a cab from Condesa to Toluca (MX$450, about US$39).
Also note that in LAX, you don't arrive or leave from the Bradley International Terminal. This is nice because the customs area seemed smaller and less busy than the huge one at the other terminal (where the giant 747's from Asia unload huge amounts of passengers).
Volaris. I recommend them.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Useful Electronic Devices for Travelers
On one return trip from Mexico, we were stopped at the airport security after passing my son's carry-on bag through the metal detectors. The security officer was literally amazed by what he found in my 6-year old's carryon bag: Two nintentdo (a DS and GBA), and iPod, dozens of DS cartridges, a video player, and a bunch of CD's. And of course, the parents had a laptop. The officer called over another worker to come take a look. Everyone had a good laugh.
I don't recommend you take that much stuff while traveling, but here are a few essentials:
1) If you're going to a country where you don't speak the language, an electronic translation device is essential. These little devices will translate text or speech on the fly, so you can get through those akward moments at the restaurant.
2) A netbook, like an Dell Mini. These are much smaller than a laptop, and can be much more rugged if you get the versions with solid state hard drives.
3) An iPhone. Make calls, watch movies, listen to music. Play games. All your bases are covered, but be sure to contact AT&T before you leave on your trip to setup a short-term mobile travel plan (or turn off the phone function while you travel). The internation roaming bills can easily run into the thousands, if you're not careful and don't buy a plan.
Happy traveling!
I don't recommend you take that much stuff while traveling, but here are a few essentials:
1) If you're going to a country where you don't speak the language, an electronic translation device is essential. These little devices will translate text or speech on the fly, so you can get through those akward moments at the restaurant.
2) A netbook, like an Dell Mini. These are much smaller than a laptop, and can be much more rugged if you get the versions with solid state hard drives.
3) An iPhone. Make calls, watch movies, listen to music. Play games. All your bases are covered, but be sure to contact AT&T before you leave on your trip to setup a short-term mobile travel plan (or turn off the phone function while you travel). The internation roaming bills can easily run into the thousands, if you're not careful and don't buy a plan.
Happy traveling!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Passport Card
If you often drive into Mexico or Canada, the rules are changing on June 1st, 2009 for what identification you will need.
One good idea is to order a Passport Card, the next time your renew your passport. For an extra 10 dollars you get a credit-card sized ID that is good for re-entering the US by land. It's much more convenient than carrying your passport, and not as big of a deal if you lose it (or get it stolen).
One good idea is to order a Passport Card, the next time your renew your passport. For an extra 10 dollars you get a credit-card sized ID that is good for re-entering the US by land. It's much more convenient than carrying your passport, and not as big of a deal if you lose it (or get it stolen).
Friday, February 20, 2009
Incredible seafood in Huatulco Mexico
Picture this: We're in Huatulco, Mexico. Sitting on a beach under a palapa. The waiter is bring cool beers every 20 minutes. A snorkeler climbs out of the water with a mesh bag full of shells. He cracks them open on a plate -- add lemon and hot sauce. Paradise for about US$15.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Mexican Bicentennial
When you are driving around the highways of Mexico, you see small signs all over the place that say: Ruta 2010
I did some investigation to figure out what these were all about, and it seems to be a bit of a mystery -- different parts of the Mexican government are claiming different things.
But it does look like this is somehow related to the 200th anniversary of Mexico's indepenence from Spain. "El Grito" is celebrated in Queretaro, so next year is the year you want to go there.
From Flickr:
I did some investigation to figure out what these were all about, and it seems to be a bit of a mystery -- different parts of the Mexican government are claiming different things.
But it does look like this is somehow related to the 200th anniversary of Mexico's indepenence from Spain. "El Grito" is celebrated in Queretaro, so next year is the year you want to go there.
From Flickr:
Monday, December 29, 2008
Renting A Car In Mexico City, DF
Wow, have we had trouble renting cars in Mexico.
First of all, you should know that making an online reservation doesn't mean much in Mexico. It will get you a fixed price for the rental, but it doesn't mean there will be a car there waiting for you. In fact with Budget and Hertz, I have shown up at the car rental only to be told there is no car. No upgrade, nada. I even called ahead. This is especially bad during holiday seasons like Christmas and Easter. And the online price isn't even always the best!
Secondly, the price you get online will NOT include insurance. There are several different insurance levels available, and it is illegal to drive without any insurance. My suggestion is to get all the available insurance -- it's to easy to get your car dinged or stolen in Mexico, and the rental offices are scrupulous about inspecting the car when you return it.
WARNING: Besides not having cars, Budget forces you to get a certain level of insurance, even if you don't want it.
To avoid all this, don't pick up your rental when you arrive at the Mexico City airport. A taxi will get you to your hotel quickly and economically -- and it'll give you a chance to get acclimated to the Mexico City driving style.
Then (or before you arrive), contact a reputable car rental agency BY PHONE. I recommend National in Mexico. You can get a compact 4-door car with full insurance for about $50 a day. If you ask, they will bring the car to you wherever you are staying. You are more likely to get a car this way. You can also upgrade to a better car for not-much-more, because more than half of the $50/day is insurance. Delivery also avoids the airport tax.
You can save some money by reducing the insurance, but be sure to get the minimum -- I've never been sure whether Credit Card insurance actually will help you in Mexico. Not having any insurance will get you a quick trip to jail if you are pulled over.
IMPORTANT: An delivery time EARLY in the day will give you the best chance of actually receiving your car. By the end of the day, they are running out.
Some tips when inspecting the car upon delivery. The deliverer will make a note of all these issues:
1) Make sure you have an inflated spare tire and tire change kit.
2) Check all the glass for broken glass.
3) Make sure you have a gas cap, antenna etc.
4) Check the wheel rims for dings.
5) Check all around the exterior of the car for any slight dings or scratches.
6) Make sure to see all the paperwork for the car: They should give you a folder with the insurance AND the registration.
A tip is appropriate when your car is picked up or dropped off.
It is probably easiest to take a cab back to the airport, but if you decide to drop of your rental when leaving then you need to take it back to TERMINAL 1 of the airport. Drive past all the gate areas, and after that there will be a sign that says "Renta de Autos". The road will split -- make sure to choose the left split and the car rental return is on the left.
UPDATE (8/20/2009): Just rented another car through National. Some prices: Jetta: $1100 pesos/day. Platina: $700 pesos/day. There is another car in between at $900/pesos per day. Pickup and delivery of car were $100 pesos each. Got a Jetta. Worked out well. YOUR BEST BET IS TO CALL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING: 8AM to get a car.
First of all, you should know that making an online reservation doesn't mean much in Mexico. It will get you a fixed price for the rental, but it doesn't mean there will be a car there waiting for you. In fact with Budget and Hertz, I have shown up at the car rental only to be told there is no car. No upgrade, nada. I even called ahead. This is especially bad during holiday seasons like Christmas and Easter. And the online price isn't even always the best!
Secondly, the price you get online will NOT include insurance. There are several different insurance levels available, and it is illegal to drive without any insurance. My suggestion is to get all the available insurance -- it's to easy to get your car dinged or stolen in Mexico, and the rental offices are scrupulous about inspecting the car when you return it.
WARNING: Besides not having cars, Budget forces you to get a certain level of insurance, even if you don't want it.
To avoid all this, don't pick up your rental when you arrive at the Mexico City airport. A taxi will get you to your hotel quickly and economically -- and it'll give you a chance to get acclimated to the Mexico City driving style.
Then (or before you arrive), contact a reputable car rental agency BY PHONE. I recommend National in Mexico. You can get a compact 4-door car with full insurance for about $50 a day. If you ask, they will bring the car to you wherever you are staying. You are more likely to get a car this way. You can also upgrade to a better car for not-much-more, because more than half of the $50/day is insurance. Delivery also avoids the airport tax.
You can save some money by reducing the insurance, but be sure to get the minimum -- I've never been sure whether Credit Card insurance actually will help you in Mexico. Not having any insurance will get you a quick trip to jail if you are pulled over.
IMPORTANT: An delivery time EARLY in the day will give you the best chance of actually receiving your car. By the end of the day, they are running out.
Some tips when inspecting the car upon delivery. The deliverer will make a note of all these issues:
1) Make sure you have an inflated spare tire and tire change kit.
2) Check all the glass for broken glass.
3) Make sure you have a gas cap, antenna etc.
4) Check the wheel rims for dings.
5) Check all around the exterior of the car for any slight dings or scratches.
6) Make sure to see all the paperwork for the car: They should give you a folder with the insurance AND the registration.
A tip is appropriate when your car is picked up or dropped off.
It is probably easiest to take a cab back to the airport, but if you decide to drop of your rental when leaving then you need to take it back to TERMINAL 1 of the airport. Drive past all the gate areas, and after that there will be a sign that says "Renta de Autos". The road will split -- make sure to choose the left split and the car rental return is on the left.
UPDATE (8/20/2009): Just rented another car through National. Some prices: Jetta: $1100 pesos/day. Platina: $700 pesos/day. There is another car in between at $900/pesos per day. Pickup and delivery of car were $100 pesos each. Got a Jetta. Worked out well. YOUR BEST BET IS TO CALL FIRST THING IN THE MORNING: 8AM to get a car.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Traveling cheaply
If you are a student, or just like to travel cheaply, you should check out this site: PoorButHappy
Great ideas there.
Great ideas there.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Buying a Cell Phone or Replacing You're Cell phone with a New Chip
If you don't have an international calling plan on your cell phone, you can either by a new phone or replace the chip in your own cell phone.
In the past, I have gone to Tel Cel (cell phone provider) to purchase a new chip. They should be able to tell you if your phone will work with their chip. If so, you will only need to buy calling cards to add minutes to your phone while you are visiting. The new chip shouldn't cost more than about $10.
If you buy a new phone, you don't need to buy a plan. A new phone should be around $40. You will need to provide an address. Phone cards come in (pesos) $100 & $200 increments and you must buy the same brand as the place you bought the phone or chip (for example, Tel cel). Ask for "el plan mas barato." These cards are the easiest and cheapest. You can buy new cards at most convenience stores or off the streets. Vendors wear yellow jumpsuits and hawk the cards at intersections. I have never had a problem with a card when buying from these vendors. Cards will come sealed in a plastic cover. You must dial and activation number and code once you open the card and scratch off the silver paint. Tel Cel has been good in my experience..
In the past, I have gone to Tel Cel (cell phone provider) to purchase a new chip. They should be able to tell you if your phone will work with their chip. If so, you will only need to buy calling cards to add minutes to your phone while you are visiting. The new chip shouldn't cost more than about $10.
If you buy a new phone, you don't need to buy a plan. A new phone should be around $40. You will need to provide an address. Phone cards come in (pesos) $100 & $200 increments and you must buy the same brand as the place you bought the phone or chip (for example, Tel cel). Ask for "el plan mas barato." These cards are the easiest and cheapest. You can buy new cards at most convenience stores or off the streets. Vendors wear yellow jumpsuits and hawk the cards at intersections. I have never had a problem with a card when buying from these vendors. Cards will come sealed in a plastic cover. You must dial and activation number and code once you open the card and scratch off the silver paint. Tel Cel has been good in my experience..
Telephones in Mexico
When you dial a number in Mexico City you must add a 5 at the beginning.
For example, if the number you wish to call is 553-5503, you must add a 5 to the beginning. It should now have 8 digits. Most numbers will be given out with the 5 already added (within Mexico City). If there are only 7 digits and no 5 at the beginning, add one.
If you are calling long distance within Mexico, you must dial 01+area code+ number.
52 is the country code for Mexico and 55 is the city code for Mexico City. Check the phone book for corresponding city codes.
For more information on phones see: http://j0rge.com
If you plan on using pay phones, there are two types: those that accept change and those that accept a calling card. Calling cards can be purchased at most convenience stores such as OXXO or 7-Eleven. It is a good idea to carry a calling card with you in case of emergencies. They are sold in increments of (pesos) $5 - $200.
For example, if the number you wish to call is 553-5503, you must add a 5 to the beginning. It should now have 8 digits. Most numbers will be given out with the 5 already added (within Mexico City). If there are only 7 digits and no 5 at the beginning, add one.
If you are calling long distance within Mexico, you must dial 01+area code+ number.
52 is the country code for Mexico and 55 is the city code for Mexico City. Check the phone book for corresponding city codes.
For more information on phones see: http://j0rge.com
If you plan on using pay phones, there are two types: those that accept change and those that accept a calling card. Calling cards can be purchased at most convenience stores such as OXXO or 7-Eleven. It is a good idea to carry a calling card with you in case of emergencies. They are sold in increments of (pesos) $5 - $200.
The Water
We've all heard this before: "Don't drink the water!" I suggest you follow this rule
just to be on the safe side. I've drank from the tap on occasion, and I haven't gotten sick - but why take any chances.
As long as you eat in reputable restaurants, you should be fine. Nice restaurants will give you filtered water if you ask for “agua natural.” If you have a sensitive stomach, eat only cooked veggies, or peeled fruit. Never eat from sidewalk vendors unless you have an iron gut!
Brushing Teeth: again, if you have a sensitive stomach, brush with bottled water. Otherwise swishing and brushing should be fine if you don't plan on swallowing any water.
just to be on the safe side. I've drank from the tap on occasion, and I haven't gotten sick - but why take any chances.
As long as you eat in reputable restaurants, you should be fine. Nice restaurants will give you filtered water if you ask for “agua natural.” If you have a sensitive stomach, eat only cooked veggies, or peeled fruit. Never eat from sidewalk vendors unless you have an iron gut!
Brushing Teeth: again, if you have a sensitive stomach, brush with bottled water. Otherwise swishing and brushing should be fine if you don't plan on swallowing any water.
Toilets
Take toilet paper with you wherever you go. If you have small children, take a foldable plastic seat cover (you can find these at most Targets or Wal Marts in the potty training section). These come in quite handy if a toilet is missing the seat (not too uncommon in Mexico).
You may need small change to pay for using the toilets. If this is the case, toilet paper is usually supplied in small quantities. I prefer to have my own supply. It is also a good idea to carry antibacterial wipes or antibacterial liquid in case there are no hand washing facilities.
If there is a bathroom attendant, make sure you tip them. They get paid very little and appreciate any extras they can make.
You may need small change to pay for using the toilets. If this is the case, toilet paper is usually supplied in small quantities. I prefer to have my own supply. It is also a good idea to carry antibacterial wipes or antibacterial liquid in case there are no hand washing facilities.
If there is a bathroom attendant, make sure you tip them. They get paid very little and appreciate any extras they can make.
Fun Places for Kids (near central D.F.)
Museo del Papalote (kids museum near Bosque de Chapultepec) There is an IMAX theatre and a fun playground, plus many interactive displays.
Bosque de Chapultepec - a great park to people watch (you can rent bikes or walk up to the "castillo"), rent paddle boats or play on the jungle gyms.
Mexico City Zoo - (located in Chapultepec) Its free and its fun! Just don't go on the weekends.
Parque Espana (Colonia Condesa)– great jungle gyms for kids.
Parque Mexico (Colonia Condesa)– nice ambiance and you can rent surrey bikes or stroll the perimeters (visiting cafes).
Further Out:
(South)
Xochimilco - float down the canals on a Chalupa (flat covered boat)
Museo de Dolores Olmeido - see peacocks and Xoloitzcuintli (Black Mexican Hairless dogs)
Ciudad de los niños - a miniatue city in the Santa Fe Mall where kids can dress up and work as cooks, firefighters, etc. and earn play money to purchase prizes.
Bosque de Chapultepec - a great park to people watch (you can rent bikes or walk up to the "castillo"), rent paddle boats or play on the jungle gyms.
Mexico City Zoo - (located in Chapultepec) Its free and its fun! Just don't go on the weekends.
Parque Espana (Colonia Condesa)– great jungle gyms for kids.
Parque Mexico (Colonia Condesa)– nice ambiance and you can rent surrey bikes or stroll the perimeters (visiting cafes).
Further Out:
(South)
Xochimilco - float down the canals on a Chalupa (flat covered boat)
Museo de Dolores Olmeido - see peacocks and Xoloitzcuintli (Black Mexican Hairless dogs)
Ciudad de los niños - a miniatue city in the Santa Fe Mall where kids can dress up and work as cooks, firefighters, etc. and earn play money to purchase prizes.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Looking for an Island?
The domain, MexicanIsland.com, is for sale. Would work great for Cozumel, Holbox, etc.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Nice neighborhoods in Mexico City
San Angel (best day: Saturday AM for the outdoor market).
Coyoacan (Frida Kahlo's famous blue house is located here).
La Condesa (go to Parque Mexico to walk & Parque Espana to play on really nice play structures for kids).
Polanco - designer shopping
Coyoacan (Frida Kahlo's famous blue house is located here).
La Condesa (go to Parque Mexico to walk & Parque Espana to play on really nice play structures for kids).
Polanco - designer shopping
Mexico City
Mexico is a vast country with 31 states ranging from desert, to tropical. Its area is approximately 1,958,200 sq km with a population of about 101,000,000. It's a Federal Republic. Religion: 90% Roman Catholic, 6% Protestant, 4% other
The Capital of Mexico is the federal district known as Mexico City , thus the name distrito federal, or D.F. in Spanish.
Here are some points of interest that you must see in D.F. (Mexico City and surrounding area) if time allows:
Pyramides de Teotihuacan (1hour away by bus/central camionera del norte) or hire a taxi for about $80 round trip. They can wait for you. This takes about 2 hours to see.
Museo de Anthropologia (off Reforma/downtown). Worth every penny - especially the audio tour for about $6.
El Zocalo (main square) and the Cathedral. If you go here, see the
Palacio del Gobierno that is right off the zocalo. It is full of amazing Diego Rivera murals. You'll need to show ID to get in. A Driver's license is fine.
Bosque de Chapultepec (Park) - el Castillo is found here, the residence of Emperor Maximilian I of Mexico and his wife Empress Carlota in 1864.
The Capital of Mexico is the federal district known as Mexico City , thus the name distrito federal, or D.F. in Spanish.
Here are some points of interest that you must see in D.F. (Mexico City and surrounding area) if time allows:
Pyramides de Teotihuacan (1hour away by bus/central camionera del norte) or hire a taxi for about $80 round trip. They can wait for you. This takes about 2 hours to see.
Museo de Anthropologia (off Reforma/downtown). Worth every penny - especially the audio tour for about $6.
El Zocalo (main square) and the Cathedral. If you go here, see the
Palacio del Gobierno that is right off the zocalo. It is full of amazing Diego Rivera murals. You'll need to show ID to get in. A Driver's license is fine.
Bosque de Chapultepec (Park) - el Castillo is found here, the residence of Emperor Maximilian I of Mexico and his wife Empress Carlota in 1864.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Welcome to Tips For Travel Abroad
We get a lot of questions about foreign travel -- especially driving from the US to southern Mexico.
We'll be using this blog to keep a list of useful tips -- so we can refer our family and friends (and future friends) to one great website with all the info.
Thanks for visiting!
We'll be using this blog to keep a list of useful tips -- so we can refer our family and friends (and future friends) to one great website with all the info.
Thanks for visiting!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
There was an error in this gadget
Posts
