Top Useful Cancun Tips for a Perfect Vacation

Cancun Tips from a local travel agent

This is an essential Cancun Tips guide based on a Cancun resident’s experiences to help make your trip unforgettable. From transportation tips to money exchange advice, here’s how locals navigate Cancun.

Taxis are easily available throughout Cancun, with costs varying by zone. The most expensive rates are typically to and from the hotel zone. We recommend negotiating the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Most hotels provide taxi rate information near the lobby or bellboy counter. For airport transfers, Cancun’s local taxis are limited to taking passengers to the airport but cannot pick up passengers from the airport. To get from Cancun Airport to your hotel, always use the official transportation services available at any of the four terminals.

Be cautious of unauthorized drivers at the Cancun Airport, often referred to as “pirates,” who may overcharge. Pre-booking your airport transfer is the safest, most convenient option for a smooth trip. By following these tips, you can enjoy a hassle-free taxi experience in Cancun!

Essential Cancun Tips for Riding Public Buses: What You Need to Know.
Buses cost $12 pesos (no American coinage) per passenger for one way. There are four buses: R-1, R-2, R-15, and R-27. In the hotel zone, it makes no difference which bus you ride. Wal-Mart, Cancun downtown, and Mercado 28 are all accessible by the R-2 and R-15 buses. The R-1 now travels practically everywhere. You must read the bus’s front right window, which lists its destination. R-1s will go to Puerto Juarez, Wal-Mart, Plaza 2000, Mercado 23, the bus station, and places I’ve never been. The R 27 turns left onto Tulum Ave. and heads to Plaza Las Americas (the local mall).

a) The winner is never the final man standing. This indicates you’ll be flying shortly. If you are the last person to pay the driver, he will be driving at 78 mph before you can decide where to sit.
b) Telling the bus driver where you want to get off is a good start, but it won’t always work. The majority do not speak English well enough to comprehend you. Before you go on, plan your route. Look for landmarks.
c) Unless you directly request it, they will not stop and let you off. Do not expect they will stop at every stop.
d) To flag down a bus, you must wave one of your body parts.
e) This is the cheapest tour in Cancun, so take advantage of it.
f) When possible, board from the front entrance and exit through the back one.
g) Do not bring alcohol on the bus; they will most likely wind up on someone else.
h) When getting off, NO ONE will move for you, therefore if the bus is crowded, put your head down and push.

Cancun Tips for Money Exchange. When visiting Cancun, most stores and restaurants accept US dollars in cash. However, the exchange rate may not always work in your favor. For better rates, it’s recommended to exchange your money at a bank, exchange shop (casa de cambio), or even your hotel, though hotel rates are often less favorable. Please note that US coins and damaged bills (shredded, scribbled on, or taped) are not accepted anywhere. Most establishments accept debit and credit cards, though many do not take American Express cards. Additionally, stores typically do not accept Canadian dollars, Euros, or British pounds notes, so it’s best to convert your currency to US dollars for convenience. For a smooth experience, ensure you exchange your currency before making purchases or paying for services in Cancun.

Additional Cancun Tips: Must-Know Advice for Your Trip
Do not drink the water, even if the hotel has a cleaned water system; it tastes strange. Mexican bottled water is one-third the price.
Avoid persons on the street trying to sell you tours, or offering free things, just say “YO VIVO A KEY,” which translates to “I live here.”
Set your taxi fare before you get in. Get the taxi number and, if possible, the driver’s name. In the event of a problem, notify your hotel about the incident so they can seek assistance from the taxi union office.
When visiting national water parks, use sunscreen that is environmentally friendly.
Don’t allow others influence your decision on a restaurant. People may remark things like:
‘Oh, that restaurant is closed’
‘My uncle runs a better one’
‘My favorite is’
‘Are you sure you want to dine there?’

Learn how restaurant commissions in Cancun impact your bill. Understand how up to 15% in hidden costs may be included, compensating concierges, drivers, and more. In Cancun, nearly every restaurant compensates various service professionals like concierges, taxi drivers, travel agents, bellboys, and even sales clerks. These commissions can be as high as 15% of your bill and are typically included in the menu prices. Approximately 97% of restaurants follow this practice. While these costs may be hidden, understanding this can help you better manage your dining expenses during your stay in Cancun.

Most people speak ‘Job English’, which means they can comprehend you when you ask them frequently asked questions. Speaking slowly and clearly. Do not use uncommon words. Do not expect everybody to understand your accent.

The ocean temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so jump in. Even if the weather is cloudy, use sunscreen. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities, acquire an eco-bug repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Crossing the street is not your right; rather, it is a challenge. You do not have the right of way, even on a crosswalk or at a red light. Be on the defense. Taxi and bus drivers have no education and believe that the road contains three things:
1) their vehicle
2) their waste
3) their right of way. So, as you cross the street, run.

Discover the Hidden Gems of Downtown Cancun
Cancun is more than just luxury hotels and beaches. Venture into downtown Cancun for a more authentic experience where you’ll find affordable prices and a vibrant local culture. Explore popular handcraft markets like Mercado 28 and Ki-huic, visit supermarkets, shop at modern malls, or stop by local plazas. You’ll also find essential services such as banks, restaurants, and money exchange bureaus. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Kabah Ecopark offers free entry and is perfect for hiking or jogging amidst nature. Dare to explore more of Cancun beyond the resort zone!

Discover Cancun’s Rich Ancestral Heritage

Explore Mayan Ruins: If you’re just two hours away, would you visit the pyramids of Egypt? Visit Chichen Itza, Tulum, Coba, and more Mayan sites. In Cancun area, you can explore iconic Mayan ruins. Even within the Cancun Hotel Zone, discover the Mayan ruins of San Miguelito, or visit El Meco on your way to Playa Mujeres.
Discover the Mayan Museum in Cancun Hotel Zone: A Must-See Experience.

Ice is a safe ingredient in beverages. Every restaurant uses filtered water to wash their vegetables. Even the street sellers on my neighboring block follow this guideline.

Always carry change! 5, 10, 20, and 50 pesos. It’s incredible how many stores do not have change, and it will be your responsibility.

ATM machines and credit card slips are in pesos, so don’t be alarmed if you see a lot of zeroes. See Money Exchange in Mexico.

Watch out for hot salsa! It’s the following day that bites. Okay, bites…

How to Improve Your Spanish Speaking Skills? Drink more tequila!

What’s the best thing to do? Get up at 6:30 a.m. and stroll down the beach. The best!

When someone says ‘I understand’, they do not. It’s that simple.

Every day, tip your maid a dollar or two.

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