Mexico here we come

Old Dec 25th, 1998, 04:21 AM
  #1  
Cally Armstrong
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Mexico here we come

During the summer of the year 2000 I am going on an expedition, with World Challenge, to Mexico and would be grateful if anyone has any information that they can send me/advice to give me. This is because I do not currently know much about Mexico and would be grateful of any advice/information.
 
Old Dec 25th, 1998, 06:49 AM
  #2  
Cheryl Z.
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Cally, can you be a little more specific about the area/cities you will be visiting? Any special interests?? Both coasts are very different from each other, and the interior.
 
Old Dec 26th, 1998, 06:29 AM
  #3  
Cally
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Cheryl, Thanks for your prompt response.
There are approximately 35 of us going to Mexico {26 students, 4 teachers and 5 experienced World Challenge leaders}And, we each have to raise £2,500 to go. We are going to split into 2 'teams' and decide upon the itenary that we want to follow and have not done this yet so we are not exactly sure which cities that we are going to go to. But we will probably be going to the copper canyon, Mexico city, the tropical forests and the Aztec Ruins.
Whilst in Mexico we will be doing some charitable work as well as trekking, but have not completely confirmed what we want to do with World Challenge, who will also advise us, but I just need any general advice or information that you could possibly give me.
 
Old Dec 27th, 1998, 07:07 AM
  #4  
Cheryl Z.
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What a great thing you are doing! I wasn't prepared for an answer like that, was expecting the regular tourist stuff! I can only help with info in PV and Cancun. Have also been to Mazatlan and Acapulco. So I hope some of the more knowledgeable Mexico posters can give you more insight than I can. You already know about the poverty and what to expect I assume. The Mexican people are very nice and pleasant, and very tolerant of us gringos. Inmost of the resort cities, the water is safe but where you will likely go to, you should drink bottled only. The food is wonderful, and fresh seafood especially good. US$ usually accepted in bigger cities and the resort areas, also you'll find much English spoken in these places. I know I have not been of much help, and I'll look forward to reading other answers to you. Have a safe and rewarding journey!
 
Old Jan 1st, 1999, 03:06 AM
  #5  
Robert Quirk
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I'm second guessing your trip here. I've been to Mexico City and stayed near El Zocalo which is the historic centre. I've also been to a number of the southern states including Tobasco, Chiapas, Yucatan, Campeche and Quintana Roo. I didn't think Mexico City was great although I flew into it and it's size was breathtaking. Heed warnings about the metro in this city they're very real. You don't notice the pollution ( I'm not asthmatic though ) but your snot turns very dirty! I felt like the only gringo in Mexico City but the locals were all polite. Teotihuacan is a archaeological site about 1.5 hours from Mexico DF ( Distrito Federal ) the City. It is well studied and unnervingly pristine. The pyramids are colossal. Take a bus from the NW terminal terrestre ( if I remember correctly ).
I'm much more positive about the southern states - they're great. The archaeology here is almost exclusively Mayan. I have a web page you can view pictures on at http://www.softreq.co.uk/robq/mexico/mexico.htm. I might even visit the northern states this spring. If you want any more info don't hesitate to contact me. I'll help where I can.
 
Old Jan 1st, 1999, 06:32 PM
  #6  
Rich
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Cally,in March 1998, we vacationed in Akumal, which is a small area about 90 minutes south of Cancun. Since you are not sure of your itinerary yet, may I suggest this area for consideration.

From Akumal, the ruins of Tulum and Coba are within 30 and 60 minutes, respectively. Also, there are a number of villages within 60 minutes time that may be interesting for the students. I cannot comment regarding any charitable work that may be needed in this area although, the local villages are rather depressed.

Another interesting part of this area is the snorkeling. There are a number of places to snorkel. Some are remote and require some looking while others are somewhat commercial (Xel-Ha & Xcaret). "Cenotes" are worth the trip for the experience. There is a restaurant about 15 minutes south of Akumal called Casa Cenote. The food is good but the cenote is fabulous. Lots of colorful fish to see.

Finally, I'm sure you'll want some time for fun while in Mexico. From the Akumal area, Xel-Ha and Xcaret are wonderful amusement areas for a day trip or two. Certainly, Playa Del Carmen is only 45 minutes north and Cancun is 90 minutes. Also, I remember an environmental group had an office right on the ocean in Akumal. I don't remember their name but, if you contact Club Akumal Caribe Hotel, they can probably give you more info.

Good luck whatever you decide. I'm certain your experience will be great. Feel free to e-mail if you have questions.
 
Old Jan 2nd, 1999, 09:35 AM
  #7  
JR
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Hi Cally, I live here in Puerto Vallarta and was born and raised in London. Have a look at my site on Vallarta at
http://www.vallarta-info.com
We have a lot of ecological style excursions - the best would be the hiking and birdwatching an land and the whales and dolphins at sea. I also have some favorite charities.
If you make it here I'll be glad to provide a proper cuppa (or a close facsimile).
Hasta,
JR
 
Old Jan 6th, 1999, 06:48 AM
  #8  
Micaela
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May I make a suggestion? The state of Chiapas in the southeast of MExico is in need of help from anyone who will go there. It is one of the poorest of Mexican states as there are several indigenious people in the area. San Cristobal is a political hotbed with the zapatistas staitioned there. Even with all the policital activity going on, I felt completely safe. I spent a month there this past summer doing volunteer work. There are two volunteer agencies headquartered in San Cristobal Global Exchange and Na-Bolom Center. I have addresses for both if you would like. This would be an outstanding place to go as the people who live there are in desperate need of any help and there is also a large international population as there are many trying to help the Chiapans.
 
Old Jan 6th, 1999, 07:06 AM
  #9  
Cally
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Micaela, Thanks very much for your message. I would be very grateful if you would 'send' me those addresses of charitable organisations.
Thanks, Cally A
 
Old Jan 9th, 1999, 11:51 AM
  #10  
Michel
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Having visited the east and west coasts, I lean towards the east. I agree with choices like Chiapas, Quintana Roo and the Yucatan (visit the ruins at Coba, Tulum, Chichen Itza...). If in Mexico, do not miss the pyramids at Teotihuacan. Another "gem" is the town of Taxco, located about two hours west of Mexico. The architecture is 18th century, giving the town a wonderful ambiance, day and night. Enjoy your trip.
 

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