traveling to the island of Isla Mujeres
If you’re counting down the days until your dream vacation to the stunning island of Isla Mujeres, Mexico, we get it. The anticipation is building, and you can already feel the warm sun on your skin and the soft sand between your toes.
Can you already feel the warm sun kissing your skin and the soft, white sand between your toes? Hold on tight because we’re about to embark on a journey of travel preparation to ensure your trip is nothing short of perfection!
But wait!
Before you get lost in your daydreams, it’s crucial to ensure you’ve checked off all the essential items on your travel preparation list. Trust me, the last thing you want is to be worrying about forgotten tasks while you’re supposed to be sipping margaritas and soaking up the laid-back island vibes.
Before you go!
Passport
Check passport expiration: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date.
When traveling to Mexico, it's crucial to have a valid passport book. Don't let the term "passport card" fool you – these cards are not accepted for air travel to Mexico. Trust us, you don't want to be turned away at the airport due to incorrect documentation.
So, grab your passport book and double-check that it's valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. While you're at it, make sure you have all the necessary visas or tourist cards required for entry. It's better to be safe than sorry!
Transportation
When it comes to ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your Mexican getaway, pre-arranging your airport transportation is an absolute must. Picture this: you've just landed in Cancun, feeling excited and ready to kick off your adventure, only to find yourself lost in a sea of taxi drivers and shuttle services, unsure of who to trust or how much to pay.
By taking a few minutes to book your transportation in advance, you'll be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride to your paradise destination without any unexpected hiccups and you can focus on what really matters – soaking up every moment of your dream vacation in Isla Mujeres.
cell phones
Confirm your cell phone plan with your cell phone provider to verify international coverage and rates in Mexico. Consider purchasing an international plan or local SIM card upon arrival.
Make sure it is set up to find easily if you lose it through apps.
Money
To prepare for your trip and manage your money effectively, here are some tips.
Exchange your USD to MXN pesos. This can be done at your bank before you leave home or once you arrive to the island. DO NOT use your ATM card at the airport. If there is a problem with the ATM machine, you will be left waiting for someone to come and retrieve it, if they come at all.
Bring cash. Although there are ATMs on the island, it is always a good idea to bring cash with you. Many places on the island may not accept credit cards, and some may charge an additional fee for card payments. You can exchange your cash for pesos at a currency exchange office on the island.
If you do plan to use a credit card, make sure to check with your bank beforehand to ensure your card will work in Mexico and so they will not flag it as fraud. Also, be aware of any foreign transaction fees that may apply.
Watch out for scams: As with any tourist destination, there may be scams targeting travelers. Be cautious of anyone offering you a deal that seems too good to be true, and always double-check prices before making a purchase.
Tip appropriately: Tipping is expected in Mexico, and it is customary to tip between 10-20% in restaurants and for other services. Make sure to have some extra cash on hand for this purpose. NOTE : It is not legal for restaurants to add tax or tip to your bill. Always check your bill closely and don’t assume it was intentional. Giving benefit of the doubt is always the best approach.
Exchange rates are different on the island than what you might see online or at your bank. Whatever the exchange rate is at the window, just multiply that times the USD. For example, if the exchange rate is 16.3 and you have 20USD x 16.3 = 326 pesos
travel insurance
Get travel insurance. This is something we highly recommend. Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
Click here for Travel Insurance
Travel Documents
Make copies of important documents: Create physical and digital copies of your passport, ID, travel itinerary, and insurance documents. Leave a set with a trusted person back home. You might also keep photos in your email or other online accessible cloud.
Click here for Travel Insurance
Packing
And when it comes to packing your bags, remember that less is often more. Most travelers tend to overpack, but in reality, you'll likely wear your favorite outfits on repeat, or maybe only a swimsuit.
So, pack smart and leave some room in your suitcase for those irresistible souvenirs you'll be bringing back home. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you'll be ready to fully immerse yourself in the paradise that awaits you on Isla Mujeres!
Ferry to the island
The public ferry is Ultramar and runs daily from 6am to midnight from the island to Cancun Puerto Juarez.
There are kiosks to purchase your tickets or At Your Service Cancun may purchase them for you. There is also a private water taxi as an option. Ask for pricing.
