Do’s and Don’t in Mexico

Social Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greetings & Politeness

• Do: Greet people with a simple “Buenos días” (Good morning), “Buenas tardes” (Good afternoon), or “Buenas noches” (Good evening/night) when entering a shop or restaurant.
• Do: Use polite phrases like “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you). These small courtesies are always appreciated.
• Do: Say “con permiso” when you need to pass someone in a crowded space. It’s the polite equivalent of “excuse me.”
• Don’t: Be overly direct or jump straight to your request without a greeting. A little small talk is appreciated and considered good manners.

Punctuality & Pace of Life

• Do: Be on time for scheduled tours, bus departures, and formal appointments. These activities operate on a strict schedule.
• Don’t: Expect strict punctuality for social gatherings. A more relaxed approach to time is common, and arriving 15-30 minutes late to a party is often the norm.
• Do: Embrace a slower pace. Things may take longer than you’re used to, from restaurant service to daily errands; patience is key to enjoying the local rhythm.

Tipping (Propinas)

• Do: Tip 10-15% at restaurants if a service charge (“servicio” or “propina”) is not already included on the bill. Check the receipt carefully.
• Do: Carry small bills and coins for tipping. It’s common to tip gas station attendants, grocery baggers, and hotel staff (bellhops, housekeepers).
• Don’t: Forget to tip your tour guides and drivers, as this is a significant and expected part of their income.
• Don’t: Feel obligated to tip taxi drivers for a standard ride, but rounding up the fare is a common and appreciated gesture for good service.

Health, Safety & Awareness

Food & Water

• Do: Drink bottled or purified water. All reputable hotels and restaurants will provide this for you.
• Don’t: Drink water from the tap or use it to brush your teeth. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are in a reputable establishment where it is made from purified water.
• Do: Eat street food! It is a fundamental part of the cultural experience and can be enjoyed safely. Look for busy stalls with high turnover, as this indicates the food is fresh and popular with locals.
• Don’t: Eat food that looks like it has been sitting out in the sun or is attracting flies. Use your best judgment to select fresh and well-prepared options.

Personal Security

• Do: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets, bus stations, and on public transport.
• Don’t: Flash expensive electronics, jewelry, or large amounts of cash. It is wise to be discreet to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
• Do: Use ATMs located inside banks or major stores rather than standalone machines on the street for greater security.
• Don’t: Carry all your cash and cards in one place. Keep a copy of your passport and important documents separate from the originals.

Transportation

• Do: Use official “sitio” taxis or ride-sharing apps (like Uber, Didi, Cabify) where they are available and well-regarded. Your hotel can help you call a trusted service.
• Don’t: Hail unlicensed taxis on the street, particularly in major cities. These can be unregulated and less safe.
• Do: Agree on the fare before getting into a taxi if it is not metered. This prevents any misunderstanding when you arrive at your destination.

Interacting with Locals & Commerce

Haggling & Shopping

• Do: Politely haggle for goods at local artisan markets and street stalls. It’s an expected and friendly part of the interaction, not a confrontation.
• Don’t: Attempt to bargain in department stores, boutiques, or restaurants where prices are clearly marked and fixed.
• Do: Keep the negotiation lighthearted and respectful. Start by offering a bit lower than you’re willing to pay and meet in the middle. A smile goes a long way.
• Don’t: Aggressively lowball or devalue the artisan’s work. Remember that a few pesos may mean more to them than to you; the goal is a fair price for both parties.

Photography

• Do: Always ask for permission before taking a close-up photo of a person, especially children or people in indigenous communities. Some communities hold specific cultural beliefs about photography and may require a small fee as a courtesy.
• Don’t: Take photos of military personnel, police, or official checkpoints. This is generally prohibited and can lead to problems.
• Do: Respect “No Photos” signs, which are common inside some churches and museums to protect artwork and maintain a respectful atmosphere.

Visiting Specific Sites

Archaeological Ruins

• Do: Stay on marked paths to help preserve these ancient and fragile sites for future generations.
• Don’t: Climb on pyramids or structures that are roped off or have signs prohibiting it. For example, climbing the main pyramid at Chichén Itzá is no longer allowed to protect the monument.
• Do: Hire a local, certified guide. It supports the local economy and enriches your experience immensely with historical context and stories you would otherwise miss.
• Don’t: Touch carvings or remove any stones or artifacts from the site. These are irreplaceable parts of world heritage.

Cenotes, Beaches & Nature

• Do: Shower before entering a cenote to rinse off sunscreen, lotion, and insect repellent. These chemicals can contaminate the fragile ecosystem of these unique sinkholes.
• Don’t: Wear conventional chemical sunscreen. Use only reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen if you plan to swim in cenotes, coral reefs, or protected lagoons.
• Do: Pack out everything you bring in. Strive to leave natural areas cleaner than you found them by picking up any litter you see.