Saturday, December 27, 2008

Understanding Mexican Laws While Vacationing in Mexico

Each year, millions of individuals travel to Mexico. Many travel to Mexico for a vacation or a business trip. Whatever your reason for traveling to Mexico, there are a number of important things that you must consider. Perhaps, the most important is the laws in Mexico.

Whether you are driving to Mexico or flying there, you will need to have the proper forms of identification. Picture identification and proof of citizenship will be required. To prove citizenship, a birth certificate or passport can be used. Without the appropriate documents, you may be denied entry.

Before leaving for Mexico, it is advised that you make multiple copies of your identification documents. You are encouraged to leave a copy at home and carry another copy with you, in addition to the original documents. If you should have a problem with the Mexican authorities, these documents will come in handy.

Out of all of the people that to travel to Mexico, most will not encounter a problem with authorities. To prevent a problem from occurring, you are encouraged to know and understand some of the laws that are currently in place in Mexico. Knowing and abiding by these laws will not only keep you safe, but it will make your vacation enjoyable.

As with any country, Mexico has a large number of laws that are currently enforced. While it may be impossible for you to examine each and every one of these laws, you are encouraged to familiarize yourself with the most important ones. For instance, many individuals believe that checking in at the boarder is all they have to when they arrive in Mexico.

If you are like most of the other individuals who visit Mexico, you are there on a vacation. Arriving in Mexico by car is different than arriving there on an airplane. If you plan on driving yourself around Mexico, you will need to register your vehicle. This can be done by obtaining a vehicle import permit. Car owners that do not have the proper approval can be fined or lose their vehicle.

If you are traveling to Mexico for a business trip, you will be required to fill out a business form. In Mexico, you are not allowed to conduct business in the area, without first making your intentions known. Business travelers are required to fill out a conduct of business form. If you are self-employed or work for a small company, you will often be responsible for this paperwork. If you work for a larger, international company, the paperwork may already be taken care of.

Once in Mexico, you are encouraged to use alcohol with caution. Mexican authorities often arrest individuals that illegal purchase alcohol, cause a public disruption, or drink in areas where alcohol is not permitted. In the United States, illegal drinking activities are taken serious, but it is nothing compared to Mexico. All punishments will vary, but you easily spend a number of months or years in jail. That is why all tourists are encouraged to use their best judgment when alcohol is involved.

While in Mexico, it is likely that you will take risks. For that is what Mexico is all about. There is a difference between taking risks and breaking the laws. It is always important to keep in mind that the laws in Mexico vary from the laws in the United States and other countries. In addition the laws, the way they are enforced and the punishment for breaking them vary.

If you are vacationing in Mexico and you find yourself in a predicament with the Mexican authorities, you are urged to contact your nearest embassy. If you are from the United States, you will need to be in contact with the United States Embassy. By contacting your nearest embassy office, you can seek assistance on what to do next.

As previously mentioned, the best way to stay out of trouble in Mexico is not to cause it. When partying or participating in other activities, be sure you know what you are doing. When in doubt, it is best to avoid any activities that may land you jail. If you are interested in learning more about Mexican laws, you can easily do the research online.

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Visiting Mexico? Don’t Be a Victim to Crime

If you are planning a trip to Mexico, there are a number of important factors that you should first consider and prepare for. These factors are considered safety precautions. Traveling to Mexico is fun, but it can be also dangerous, especially if you don’t know what to do or how to protect yourself.

When visiting Mexico it is important to register with the United States Travel Registry to ensure that the government knows that you are leaving the country. This is the first step to staying safe while in Mexico. In the event that you become the victim of a crime, you will receive immediate government assistance. When using the internet to register with the United States Travel Registry, be sure to leave a detailed itinerary of your plans on your computer.

You should also make sure that you leave information regarding your travel plans with a close friend, family member, co-worker, or neighbor. You are encouraged to make copies of your airline tickets, as well as your passport. You want to take a copy with you and leave another copy at home. This will help verify your location if something should go awry. You should also designate someone you know as your emergency contact.

Use common sense in the hotels, on busses, or walking in the streets of Mexico. Don’t take taxicabs that you have just waved down on the streets. Many crimes are being reported of people who haven’t previously arranged for taxis. You should also never carry large amounts of cash, flashy jewelry, or extra credit cards with you. When you are a tourist, shady people will already notice you and single you out. Be on the lookout for and avoid these individuals at all costs.

If you think that you know all there is to Mexico you are most often wrong. Public drinking is often shown in films as the norm, however this is a crime and you can be arrested for being intoxicated in public. You should also use caution when drinking in nightclubs or bars during the evening hours. People who wish to victimize tourists often drug them.

You should always use caution, no matter where you are. Despite being cautionary at all times, you should also use caution when traveling by bus and other forms of public transportation. You should always stay alert during nighttime travel and while traveling during busy bus hours. It is becoming more common for tourists to be mugged while riding on the busses in Mexico. The busses where these crimes are taking place are often the cheapest forms of travel. You may want to ride first class and have someone that you know and trust with you.

If you need help while in Mexico you should contact the United States Embassy. There is also a twenty-four hour hotline for the Mexican Ministry of Tourism. There is also a Mexican version of 911; it is 060 for Mexico City, and 066 for other areas of Mexico. This will put you in contact with Mexican officials immediately. There is also a Mexican Red Cross that will help if you are injured and need medical help. The Red Cross is free of charge and they will provide basic medical attention.

The above mentioned precautionary measures and important phone number are just a few of the many that you should know. Despite what you believe, staying safe while on vacation in Mexico shouldn’t begin as soon as you arrive. You should start taking precautionary measures before you leave for your vacation.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Fabulous Vegas Freebies

Anyone that knows me knows that I'm a huge fan of freebies and living frugally. What self respecting Vegas visitor would ever pay full price if they didn't have to or leave this great city of chance without getting something for nothing. One of the best services I can provide my fellow man is the ability to share these fabulous free finds with anyone that is interested in what I have to offer.

This is better than a 'tell all' book on who did it and why isn't it? The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers a delight to the eyes of the beholder. It is a true delight to all the senses to see the sights and inhale the fragrance of these gardens that display seasonal highlights in plants, flowers, and produce. Each season offers new delights to the senses and there is no admission fee to view these beautiful floral arrangements. This is a great place for a photo op to help you remember your time in Las Vegas.

Have you ever seen water dance? If not, then while you're visiting the Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio, you'll want to stick around long enough to witness the fountains of Bellagio. These shows consist of more than 1000 fountains that are literally dancing in choreographed unison with light to the music (you may be surprised or quite possibly impressed by the extent and variety of the music play list for this particular show). This is also free to witness and occurs every half hour or so after 3:00 PM throughout the week and after noon on the weekends.

If you're looking for more great fun that is free for the entire family to enjoy, head on over to Circus Circus for Circus Acts-this show is free to watch and provides the audience with the thrills and chills of the big top day after day. You can watch different acts as they perform throughout the day at the half hour mark between the hours of 11 AM and Midnight.

Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall offers a stunning display of water and laser lights daily at 2:00, 6:00, 8:00, and 10:00. This show is called "Sunset Stampede" and takes place in a 9-story atrium that hosts a natural habitat of live trees, greenery, waterfalls, and trails.

Another great free attraction in Vegas is the Masquerade Show in the Sky. The show is free to watch, if you choose to participate by riding one of the floats, the cost is $12.95 (that is subject to change). This experience is very reminiscent of Carnivale in Brazil. The floats are literally suspended from the ceiling for the sake of this show which is considered one of the best free shows that Vegas has to offer.

Perhaps one of the most interesting freebies is the Silverton Hotel and Casino's Aquarium. This attraction is completely free to the public and a fascinating thrill to children big and small (even mom's find this one fascinating). Enjoy watching both salt water and freshwater fish in their natural habitats and enjoy the ambiance of your surroundings.

The Sirens of Ti is a great sexy pirates tale that shows at Treasure Island TI daily as the weather allows. This is one great show that the kids, especially little boys that think pirates are the bomb and big boys that enjoy watching ships sink and sirens do what sirens do, will all agree to enjoy together.

Free entertainment is often the best entertainment that can be found. There are so many things to do and see that cost literal fortunes. It is nice to know that there are so many thrilling adventures available for little or no cost to explore while visiting Las Vegas. If you spend wisely, you will discover that you can enjoy the better part of most days filled with activity without breaking your wallet or becoming close personal friends with any creditors.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Vacationing in Mexico While on a Budget

If are planning a trip to Mexico, but you have a budget in mind, then you will be glad to know that visiting Mexico while on a budget is possible. There are many ways to save money through package deals, low-cost airfare, discount accommodations, dining out, and traveling within the country.

Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and fabulous cruises. Even while on a budget, these activities can all be enjoyed during your visit. So no matter what your financial situation is, you will be pleased to discover that planning a vacation to Mexico is affordable for just about anyone.

Saving on airfare is the first way to begin planning a vacation to Mexico while on a budget. There are many different packages available. With the help of the internet, finding a great deal is often simple and easy. Depending on your location, you may also be surprised to discover that your own local travel agent may have vacation packages that include airfare, as well as your accommodations.

Accommodations are a necessity when visiting Mexico. If you are staying with friends or family then you will automatically save money. However, if you need to make arrangements for your housing, then you may find that a package deal is most beneficial to those on a budget. There are other means of inexpensive housing, such as camping, but if you are looking for a hotel environment, then look for one with a package deal. A travel package can save you a considerable amount of money, so shop around and find the best deals that fit your needs.

Restaurants and eating out can be expensive, especially in trendy nightclubs and other famous resorts. However, if you are traveling to Mexico on a budget, you can spend wisely and eat delicious foods while remaining on your budget. You can take advantage of the many outdoor street markets and save. The food is great, delicious, and a true taste of Mexican culture; not to mention, it is also easy on your pocketbook.

Shopping in grocery stores is another way to save money while visiting Mexico. By eating the local produce, you will save money and have more to enjoy for your other vacation expenses. It is important to note that you should treat any fruit and produce that you buy as food that requires care. Make sure to peel and wash all fruits and vegetables before eating them and practice safe handling instructions for all food.

Transportation is another area where you can save money and remain within your targeted financial plan. Mexico buses are a very cheap way to travel. If you need information regarding bus schedules, times, and whether or not you will need a ticket, check with locals during your stay. However, as a safety precaution, you are encouraged not to ride in any taxis that haven’t been prearranged through either the airport or your resort.

When it comes to transportation, you can also save money by taking a bus, rather than an airplane, into Mexico. Some major bus lines, such as Greyhound, will take you straight into Mexico. This is an affordable way to save money and plan your vacation as well.

Planning a Mexico vacation on a budget may seem difficult to do, but you may soon realize that there is a lot of assistance available. With careful planning, and sticking to your budget, you can enjoy a wonderful vacation in Mexico.

Monday, December 1, 2008

Scuba Diving While Vacationing in Mexico

Millions of Americans schedule a Mexico vacation. If you are interested in scheduling a vacation in Mexico, or you already have, you may be wondering what you can do while on vacation. In Mexico, there are an unlimited number of activities that you may find exciting. One of those activities may include scuba diving.

When it comes to scuba diving in Mexico, there are many travelers who are misinformed. Many believe that you have to be an experienced diver to enjoy underwater diving. This is simply not true. Before going scuba diving in the ocean, it is advised that you have basic knowledge of diving and strong swimming skills. However, you do not have to be an experienced diver. When vacationing in Mexico, there are many individuals who go scuba diving for the first time.

Scuba diving is a pretty self-explained activity. Scuba divers are featured in many movies and can be found in many amusement parks. While the general idea of scuba diving is the same in Mexico, what you will see underwater is not. There are a number of underwater animals and plants that can only be seen in or around the Mexico area. This in itself is one of the many reasons why you should schedule a scuba diving adventure.

In Mexico, scuba divers are often able to swim with the dolphins and sea turtles. To many, this alone is worth the cost of scuba diving. Aside from swimming with sea animals, you can also spend your scuba diving trip examining the life and environment underwater. Just a few of the many sea animals that you may see in Mexico include lobsters, eels, sting rays, and a large number of different kinds of fishes. The fishes found in underwater Mexico often include puffer fishes, spotted fishes, and parrot fishes.

While the sea animals found underwater are the most exciting part of scuba diving, there are other underwater activities that you can participate in. Many scuba divers enjoy diving along coral reefs that are found along the coast of Mexico. Coral reefs are not only home to a large number of sea animals, but they also make for great adventures. You may find it exciting traveling in, over, or around the many different sized reefs.

Unless you are an experienced underwater diver, you are advised to go scuba diving with a trained professional. These professionals are most commonly found with scuba diving tour groups. Scuba diving tour groups can be found all along the coast of Mexico. Scuba diving is a popular pastime in Mexico; therefore, you are encouraged to schedule your scuba diving adventures ahead of time.

In addition to scheduling a scuba dive with a trained diver, you can learn how to scuba dive at a number of locations in Mexico. Many of these locations also offer guided tours. Scuba diving lessons are offered as group lessons or private lessons. Private lessons may be more expensive, but many first time scuba divers find them rewarding, in more ways than one.

Underworld Scuba operates scuba diving and snorkeling tours in the Manzanillo area of Mexico. It has been said that the Manzanillo area is one of the best places to go scuba diving in Mexico. Underworld Scuba, along with number other companies, state that the area is thriving with underwater life and adventures. Another popular scuba diving tour company is The Puerto Dive Team, which operates out of Oaxaco Mexico. They are most known for their private one-on-one underwater tours.

To find other guided tours that are designed for scuba divers, you are encouraged to contact your local travel agent or do the research yourself. Whether or not you have already selected your Mexico destination, you should easily be able to find nearby tours. The closer you are to the coast, the more tours you will have access to. What you can do and see underwater is absolutely amazing. It is likely what you see will stay with you for years to come.