First visit to Mexico
 

We have a 2 wk vacation at the end of September and are trying to decide between Mexico and Europe. We've been to Europe and would love to go back, however, Mexico has always intriged me and it would be cheaper. Any suggestions for where to go in Mexico? A mexican cruise is another option. All responses welcomed.

I would pick one or two places and go there, but I would not recommend a cruise. Because I don't think it gives a favorable impression of the country.

For instance I love Puerto Vallarta and vacation there every year. But most people I know who have seen it from only 1 day from a cruiseship do not like it at all. It's an ugly part of town where the cruiseships dock, taxis and vendors are more aggressive when the ships are in, etc.

Are you interested in a beach destination? Or maybe some of the beautiful colonial cities in the mountains?

As Suze hinted September is definitely Mountain Mexico time. Cities such as Guadalajara, Morelia, Patzcuaro, Taxco & Oaxaca are all great choices that time of the year.

San Miguel de Allende catches my eye in that category.

Oops, and I did miss the September part. Forget going to the beach then, it's hot, humid, and rainy season most coastal destinations.

I think Mexico is a good idea. I like Stewbear's suggestions. I am partial to Oaxaca, but they all look good to me. I am in Spain right now and I can't beleive how expensive it has become since a trip 18 months ago. For me Mexico would be a great pick, in fact I wish I were there now!

With 2 weeks, you could start in Oaxaca (3 days), proceed to Mexico City (4 days), and then go up to Queretaro (1-2 days), maybe an overnight stay in San Miguel since it's on the way, and finish in Guanajuato (3 days).

You'll want to stay away from the beaches and the Yucatan in September.

Totally agree with Suze about a cruise. There will be nothing remotely Mexican about a cruise to Mexico, other than perhaps Sombrero Night or tacos on the buffet table. Oh - and the nasty dock areas that Suze refers to.

Mexico is so wonderful and interesting - have a great time!

Weather can be tricky because you have to consider the pros and the cons. The “pro” is that coastal locations, particularly, in the Caribbean offer great deals. The risk though is that you may get hit with a lot of rain or worse, a hurricane. My family has been in Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Baja in the sept/oct timeframe without problem - at discounted prices. You can also get trip insurance to cover yourself.

I agree with the other comments about considering inland destinations. And, as suggested, San Miguel de Allende is a great choice. It’s not a flashy website, but I did find good info on hotels and restaurant in <a href="http://www.sanmigueldeallendemexico.com">San Miguel de Allende</a>. Also, you can consider checking out Mexico City, which isn’t too far away. Don’t spend too much time there because the smog can be bad, but it’s worth checking out.

I've always been interested in Guadalajara, but yet to visit. I figure it might be a bit more manageable logistically than Mexico City.

Suze- If you ever want to "do" GLD let me know as I have spent lots of time there so got good Info.

muchas gracias :-)