Information and Thoughts on Mexico...

Topic: Information and Thoughts on Mexico... (Read 521 times) previous topic - next topic

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November 12, 2016, 12:05:02 am

Hi Everyone,

I recently got a private message from someone wondering about travel to Mexico. I haven't been far into the interior with my RV, but I've been several times to Puerto Penasco. I responded tonight to a private message, but in the process lost all of my response.

Therefore, here is "what I've done, and what I know." I hope it's helpful, and I'd love to see some of my Lazy Daze friends "South of the Border."

Entrance Point:
For me, the closest and easiest entry is at Lukeville, Arizona. The drive is a little over an hour on a fairly good road. You have to be "very careful" going through the town on the opposite side called Sonoyta. There are fake and real police that like to "do the pinch." Just watch your speed and travel UNDER the speed limit. If you are stopped by the police, NEVER PAY OFF THE OFFICER but ask to pay your fine at the police station.

I generally cross early in the day and mid-week as opposed to weekends. Many people from Tucson and Phoenix come for the weekend, and those times are generally congested.

I usually spend an enjoyable evening at Organ Pipe National Monument before crossing over the next day. It's just lovely and very peaceful.

RV Parks:
The two "major" RV parks with full hook-ups are Playa Bonita and Playa de Oro. Beach-side with full hook-ups is approximately $750.00/month and "off beach" about $500.00/month. Here's a link to the list of the RV Parks in Puerto Penasco:

Rocky Point (Puerto Penasco): RV Parks

Personally, I like the dry camping (EVERYTHING except electric) at Concha del Mar if you have solar panels. Concha del Mar is $200.00/month and generally not as crowded. There are showers, water, a dump, a small laundry, WiFi, etc... It's right next to Playa Bonita. I often walk to Playa Bonita for happy hour at the restaurant and participate in many of their activities. At Concha del Mar – it's “first come, first served.” Therefore, many times you'll be lucky enough to snag a spot right on the beachfront.

Insurance:
My insurance preference is Rosie Glover at ProAlliance Insurance.

I tow my car and buy a yearly "driver's license policy." The insurance is for liability only and costs approximately $130.00/year. Since I don't go deep into the "interior" or Mexico it works for me. There's a U.S. number and you can call with your credit card and then they will e-mail your policy for you to print-out in an attachment. When you get to Mexico, you can visit the office and get a hard copy of your policy and also a "card." To me the "card" is priceless because if you get in any sort of altercation Rosie will come to the police station and represent you. Yes, you can go with another agency and save $30.00, but to me it's not worth it and Rosie is highly respected in the community. If it's your first trip and you will only have drive your RV on a “day in – day out” basis, you can but insurance ONLY for those days.

Animals:
Basically, if they see your pet in your rig "sometimes" there are representatives at the border that will ask for a vaccination certificate. Save time and make a photocopy to give to the representative (if they're even there). Sometimes, (if the representative are there) they will want to take a photo of your pet. As for the "health" certificate, unless it's free from your vet I wouldn't worry - they NEVER ask.

Groceries:
There are restrictions to meat and produce you can take in and out of Mexico. However, virtually everything you can buy in the U.S. you can find in Mexico. The main grocery is called Super Ley (actually owned by Safeway), but Sam's Club and the "Mexican Wal*Mart" have a good assortment as well. There are also many "frutarias" that sell fresh fruits and vegetables.

What many people fail to do is properly wash fruits and vegetables. You "do" need to do this because you don't know what fertilizer and/or pesticide has been utilized in crop growing. The only exemption from this practice would be purchasing produce in sealed bags that has been pre-washed.

A popular wash is called Microdyn. It's very inexpensive and sold in all stores that sell groceries.

How to clean and disinfect fruits and vegetables in Mexico – Cooking in Mexico

Biking and Walking:
I always stay at Concha del Mar since the RV park has everything the more expensive parks have except for electricity. The RV park is “easily” within biking and walking distance to grocery stores, restaurants, etc... for those who don't tow a car. In addition, I often go next door to Playa Bonita for Happy Hour. Taxis are inexpensive and plentiful if you need to go somewhere far in town and/or don't want to drive.

Using Your Cell Phone in Mexico:
When I travel to Mexico, I turn off the data on my Verizon phone and use a limited International plan. For me, $15.00/month with 100 minutes is fine since I have access to Wi-Fi for e-mail, etc... Note: this add on is in ADDITION to your regular cell phone plan. However, there are many options to suit your personal needs.

You can go to Telcel and change out the sim card (if you have an adaptable phone). Telcel Service Plans

AT&T International Plans

Verizon Wireless International Plans

Money:
You can use American dollars almost everywhere, but if you're staying for any length of time you'll do better with MXN pesos. The easiest thing to do is to use your ATM card to draw money from a Mexican ATM, but be aware that your home bank may "make a significant charge." There is a Sam's Club and a warehouse grocery type of store that is owned by Wal*Mart that gives a very good exchange rate if you're paying in USD. If you're staying for any length of time there's an online service called Remitly that you can use to do an “instant transfer” and pick up your Mexican pesos at one of their approved banks. It's quick, easy, and the first transaction gets you a $40.00 Amazon or Wal*Mart gift card. (It's what I personally use.)

Safety:
Yes, you're in Mexico. However, it's not scary. Just be aware of your surrounding, and “don't be stupid.” The beauty and joy far outweighs any perceivable negatives. This fall/winter I plan to spend some time in Puerto Penasco and in February caravan with friends down the Baja to see the whale migration. Come on down! :-)