Can I use my credit cards? Can I get cash from the banks with my credit cards?

Answer: Yes, to both questions. All major credit cards (except Discover) are widely accepted. In restaurants, it is best to ask before ordering, not every business accepts credit cards, just as back home. All of the banks will give cash advances, most have ATM machines at their locations, for after hours cash.

What will the weather be like in January (or any other month)?

Answer: Nobody can predict the weather. If I could I certainly would not be doing what I am doing. We have an Average Temperature Chart on our Local Weather page. Check this and call your hotel a few days before your arrival to make sure. We do not have the sophisticated weather services here that so many people take for granted in the U.S.

What is the legal drinking age in México, and what time do the night clubs close?

Answer: The legal drinking age is 18. There is no set closing time, many of the night clubs stay open until the wee hours of the morning (3 or 4 AM).

Will my hair dryer (portable iron, electric toothbrush, etc.) work in México?

Answer: Yes, if you are from the U.S. or Canada. México uses the same voltage as the United States. If you are coming from Europe, or any country that uses 220 volts, you will need the proper adapters.

What about going topless or totally nude on the beaches?

Answer: Both are illegal in México although enforcement is ignored (the practice is tolerated), in some areas. Use your common sense, look around, see what others are doing, if there are others that are topless nearby, the chances are pretty good that it is, most likely, locally accepted.

Will my cellular phone work in Mexico?

Answer: We have local cellular service. Some (very few) cellular services will allow you to roam in Mexico. Most cell phones will work, but they must be reprogrammed by the local service provider Tel-Cel Cellular and remember to have it reprogrammed again before returning to the U.S.

How can I access the Internet to receive my e-mail?

Answer: There are Internet Cafes all over town and in most hotels.

Can I use my laptop computer to get my e-mail?

Answer: You can bring your laptop computer… you will have to contact the one local ISP CABOTEL that will provide you with temporary Internet access for your limited stay. If you are staying in a hotel, make sure your modem will bypass their PBX phone system. If your modem will not, there is hardware and software available that will handle that part of the problem for you. If you travel a lot and stay in hotels, this is something you should definitely have.

Can I buy Real Cuban cigars? And can I take them back with me?

Answer: Yes you can buy them, and yes, they are expensive. No, you cannot take them back to the U.S., but if you are returning to Canada it is OK. Be careful of fake look-alike Cuban Cigars…only buy at well known establishments.

What can I use as proof of citizenship to enter Mexico?

Answer: I will let the Mexican Consulate answer this question. Click here.

Is the water safe to drink?

Answer: In the hotels and most restaurants, you will get purified water. I would not drink the water from a private home or condo, unless you know there is a purification system installed. The water here is very pure, but the distribution system is not so perfect. Buy bottled water. Why not be completely safe!

Is it possible to get married in Cabo?

Answer: Most definitely, many people do. It will be almost impossible unless you hire someone who, speaks the language, understands the legal requirements and procedures. You do not want to spend all of your time in Cabo running around after all of the necessary papers and permits. If you want to get married …VIEW OUR WEDDING PAGE.

Is it safe to walk the streets at night?

Answer: Yes definitely, I feel much safer here than I do in the United States. There is very little crime here, and what little there is, is usually very petty compared to the U.S. Use your common sense, it’s always better to stay close to the main streets or tourist area, and not venture to unknown areas. All in All you are pretty safe here. This applies only to Los Cabos, the mainland of Mexico is another matter, altogether.

How much are the Taxi rates?

Answer: No, I can’t, as they vary from taxi to taxi. It is best to check with the desk at your hotel. They should be able to tell you what the fare should be. Then check again with the taxi driver. Do this before you get into the taxi! Don’t be afraid to bargain for a cheaper fare, especially if there are several in your party.

What about the bus system?

Public busses that operate between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo all day, 7 days a week. They start running in San Jose at 5:00 AM and in Cabo they start at 5:30 AM, and run until 9:30 or 10:00 PM. There are official bus stops, with seats and shade, but the busses can be flagged down, from almost anywhere along the highway, by waving your arms at the bus as it arrives. They will usually stop, if they see you in time. The busses only run on the main highway and pass each stop approximately every twenty minutes. The fare is 16 pesos (about $1.45 U.S.) between the two towns, less if your only going part of the way. There are also express busses that won't stop for you (they must be boarded at a bus station), but wave anyway, they all look alike here. Don't expect a first class bus with air conditioning and beverage service, this is México, and transportation is about all you get.

How will I know if I am getting a good price on merchandise?

Answer: This is one question that nobody but you can answer. A good rule of thumb is, with street or beach vendors, always get at least a 25-30% discount, sometimes more. In most stores the prices are fixed, just as they are at home. If you are making large purchases or if there are several people in your party that are buying something, you can always ask for a discount. If you’re happy with the price of something, then you are getting a good deal.

What about Hospitals and Medical Care?

Answer: We have a nice new hospital, and we have some competent doctors. Many speak English. The equipment here is usually older and somewhat out of date, compared to what you are probably used to. The hospital is not equipped for severe trauma cases. Check with your hotel for the name of an English-speaking doctor, write their phone numbers down and carry them with you. Always check with your doctor if there is any doubt in your mind. Medical service here is nowhere near as sophisticated as in the U.S. or Canada.

Are the Beaches safe for Swimming?

Answer: Generally, yes. There are a few places to beware of. The beaches on the Pacific side can be very dangerous, especially in the summer, be very careful. The main beach, Medano Beach and Lover's Beach (bay side only, beware on the Pacific side) are probably the safest places to swim. The bays of Chileno and Santa Maria are usually safe, but be careful if there are any swells (usually summer). Remember, there are no lifeguards here. During the summer there can be large swells, even on the Sea of Cortez. Be careful and buddy up, swim with a friend, always! Tell other people where you are going to swim and your expected return time.