I will be in Cuernavaca Feb '07 for 5 nights. Do I need a car? My thoughts are I could take bus from MEX airport directly to Cuernavaca. While in Cuernavaca I could use taxi's? First timer to Mexico, and no speaka!

No you don't need a car. You are right, just bus directly from the airport in MEX to Cuernavaca. Taxis are abundant and the best way to get around. Take a Taxi to Tepoztlan while you are there if you are looking for something to do. The Borda gardens and the Robert Brady house down by the Cathedral are well worth it to. If you have a whole day bus to Taxco in the morning and back at night. It is well worth the trip too.

How do I got a good street map of Cuernavaca? Any suggestions where to stay in the area of Universidad Internacional?

I loved the Robert Brady house - it was a highlight of our stay there. Fabulous!

We took a bus to Tepoztlan one day, also a bus to Taxco. If you do go to Tepoztlan, go to Tepoznieves (something like that) for ice cream - it is wonderful.

As far as a map, its in MapQuest. I have only stayed at inexpensive lodging downtown so I can't help with that.

When you go to Tepoztlan--be sure and visit the shoe shop a block east of the market. I have worn the sandals I bought there two years ago almost daily--best shoes I've ever owned. I would go back just to shoe shop (and I'm not the "Imelda" type!). Ditto on the ice cream shop. Be sure to go on market day.

No car necessary. In fact, I personally would never attempt to drive in that city. There are so many cars speeding around and coming at you from all directions. Cabs are cheap. Only cost $3-5 american dollars. It's also easy to catch a bus from MEX directly to Cuernavaca. I believe the bus terminal is just up the escalator in the airport.