Mexico Travel Information
Passports
Passports are required as of June 1, 2009. Please visit our Passport Information Page
For the latest passport information visit:
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html#compliant_document
Beaches
The beaches in Mexico are open to the public and free of charge. An important AAA travel tip to Mexico is always be extremely careful while swimming, as very few beaches have lifeguards. Do not swim alone and keep your eye on the waves as they can be unpredictable. In all beach destinations the water condition flags are posted and should be followed. Do not panic if you feel you are being pulled out to sea. Swim parallel to the beach and usually in 50 ft. conditions will change.
Transportation
Taxis are very affordable in Mexico. We suggest that you ask the driver before getting in the taxi the fare they will charge.
Age scheme
In Mexico the adult age is considered at 18 years old, this applies for serving drinks. For other services such as car rental, the minimum age is 25 years old.
Health
Often during our vacations our drinking and eating habits are different from what we are used to back home. Besides this the factors of change of weather and altitude affects our bodies greatly. Therefore during the first day of your vacation try to take is easy so your body can adjust to it´s temporary environment. Puerto Penasco, Mexico travel tips suggests drinking lots of fluids while here and bringing your normal home medicines to help any slight discomfort which may occur, such as headaches or stomach problems. If you are traveling to a beach area be careful with the sun it usually is stronger than it seems. Use sunscreen and take some shade now and then.
Money Exchange
You may use US dollars or Canadian dollars in Puerto Peñasco as we have a dual currency system. However we suggest that you exchange your money in a bank or an exchange house for the best exchange rate. US dollars are widely accepted in Mexico but usually pesos are the best.
"NEVER TAKE A FIREARM ACROSS THE BORDER!!!!!!!"
(There are exceptions to this but contact a Mexican Consulate to determine the current exceptions)
Vehicles
If you are crossing the border to visit the "Free Zone" (Rocky Point included), you must have the titles to any vehicles you are crossing with. This includes boats, jet skis, water bikes, ATC's, dune buggies, etc. If you are not able to provide legal documentation of the vehicles you may be turned back at the border
Customs Procedures
All foreigners and Mexicans coming from another country are international passengers and have the right to bring the following items, tax free:
" Items for personal use such as clothing, shoes and toiletries in reasonable amounts according to the length of their trip.
" One photographic, video, or motion picture camera, including a power source, except professional equipment. Up to 12 rolls of film, or videotapes.
" Books and magazines
" One used sports article or piece of equipment for individual use which can be transported by one person.
" Up to 20 packs of cigarettes or 50 cigars.
" A maximum of 3 liters (approx. 3 quarts) of wine or alcohol if the passenger is an adult.
" Medicine for personal use. (with your prescription).
" Suitcases or bags to transport the items.
If you are legally a resident of another country in addition to the items listed, you may bring into Mexico, tax free:
" Binoculars
" A photographic camera
" A portable television
" A radio/tape recorder with a maximum of 20 records or tapes.
" A typewriter or portable computer
" Up to five used toys (if the passenger is a minor)
" Fishing Tackle
" A pair of skis
" Two Tennis rackets
" A non-motorized boat up to 5 1/2 meters in length or a surfboard, with or without a sail
" Camping equipment and a tent.
If you are traveling by camper, trailer or motor home you may also bring in:
" A video cassette recorder(VCR)
" A bicycle (with or without a motor)
" Household linens and kitchen utensils
" Living room and bedroom furniture
Importing Additional Merchandise
You may import additional merchandise valued at up to $1,000.00 U.S. Dollars by paying a corresponding tax without the intervention of a customs broker. (Contact Mexican Customs for the list)
In addition, you may impose without the services of a customs broker, one computer system as long as its value, added to the above merchandise, (of $1,000.00) does not exceed $4,000.00 U .S. Currency.
To pay the tax, multiply the value of your excess merchandise by 20.84% (if the product originated in the U.S. or Canada).
This information, supplied by Paisano Information at the Mexican Border, is subject to change.
It is forbidden to introduce drugs, fire arms and explosives into Mexico. If you do so, you will be subject to penalties and imprisonment.
VISAS - are obtained at the first building on the right after you clear the border check station at Lukeville. A Visa is required IF you are going beyond Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point). You will need
proof of citizenship such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, voter's registration etc. (a driver's license is NOT proof of citizenship.)
Pets
If you take your dog or cat into Mexico, you are required to have:
1) A U.S. veterinarian's certificate Form 77-043 and
2) A rabies inoculation permit valid within the past 6 months.
We encourage you to follow our Puerto Penasco Mexico travel tips for the best possible vacation!
Don’t Leave Your Brains At the Border
Since most of your trips to Rocky Point will be short you will want to make some smart decisions which can be the difference in a great weekend or the worst weekend you have ever known. These tips will be good for your health and for your pleasure because you will want to know when to stop and what you should avoid.
1. Water
You will find that Puerto Penasco or better known as Rocky Point has three plants that purify water for the people that live here and the businesses that do business here. You can use water from the tap. It is fine for brushing your teeth and you are safe drinking it while at a restaurant in Rocky Point. However you may choose to bring your own supply or you will be happy to know iy is readily available for ourchase at several of the local tiendas, gas stations , and liquor stores.
2. Don’t get stressed out!! You will want to give yourself ample planning time and preparation for your trip to Rocky point. You will want to do all your packing and planning at least a day or so ahead so that you will have everything you need and no stress along the way. Make sure you remember any prescription medications you will need as well as extra money and for sure do not forget your purse and identification. If you give yourself enough time to plan and prepare your trip will be most enjoyable.
3. Don’t forget the SUNSCREEN!!! You should always use sunscreen while in Rocky Point or anywhere for that matter. You will find that most of your days will be spent relaxing on the beach. You should first apply sunscreen first thing in the morning before you get dressed. You will find that this tip is good no matter what time of year it is. The sun is very stronh here, even in the winter months. Once you start to get a little pink you should be sure to cover up your skin. You willnotice that you will still get sun through your clothing. You should stick to lightweight clothing that is white or light colors as that reflects the least amount of sun.
4. Always wear shoes! You may want to always go barefoot and feel the sand between your toes but it is not worth it if you are moving around. You could burn your feet on the sand, get a sunburn from the sun, or step on a piece of broken glass and that would surely ruin your trip, so please where shoes.
5. The most common problem here in Rocky Point is people over doing themselves! It is very common for young party animals to flock here for the weekend and try to drink as much beer and tequila as their bodies can hold. Bad choice if you want to enjoy your stay here. There will always be an endless supply of beer and tequila, it is not going anywhere so be sure to exercise moderation or you may find yourself very sick with the “revenge” and then you will blame it on Rocky Point when you are really the only one to blame.
Passports are required as of June 1, 2009. Please visit our Passport Information Page
For the latest passport information visit:
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html#compliant_document
Beaches
The beaches in Mexico are open to the public and free of charge. An important AAA travel tip to Mexico is always be extremely careful while swimming, as very few beaches have lifeguards. Do not swim alone and keep your eye on the waves as they can be unpredictable. In all beach destinations the water condition flags are posted and should be followed. Do not panic if you feel you are being pulled out to sea. Swim parallel to the beach and usually in 50 ft. conditions will change.
Transportation
Taxis are very affordable in Mexico. We suggest that you ask the driver before getting in the taxi the fare they will charge.
Age scheme
In Mexico the adult age is considered at 18 years old, this applies for serving drinks. For other services such as car rental, the minimum age is 25 years old.
Health
Often during our vacations our drinking and eating habits are different from what we are used to back home. Besides this the factors of change of weather and altitude affects our bodies greatly. Therefore during the first day of your vacation try to take is easy so your body can adjust to it´s temporary environment. Puerto Penasco, Mexico travel tips suggests drinking lots of fluids while here and bringing your normal home medicines to help any slight discomfort which may occur, such as headaches or stomach problems. If you are traveling to a beach area be careful with the sun it usually is stronger than it seems. Use sunscreen and take some shade now and then.
Money Exchange
You may use US dollars or Canadian dollars in Puerto Peñasco as we have a dual currency system. However we suggest that you exchange your money in a bank or an exchange house for the best exchange rate. US dollars are widely accepted in Mexico but usually pesos are the best.
"NEVER TAKE A FIREARM ACROSS THE BORDER!!!!!!!"
(There are exceptions to this but contact a Mexican Consulate to determine the current exceptions)
Vehicles
If you are crossing the border to visit the "Free Zone" (Rocky Point included), you must have the titles to any vehicles you are crossing with. This includes boats, jet skis, water bikes, ATC's, dune buggies, etc. If you are not able to provide legal documentation of the vehicles you may be turned back at the border
Customs Procedures
All foreigners and Mexicans coming from another country are international passengers and have the right to bring the following items, tax free:
" Items for personal use such as clothing, shoes and toiletries in reasonable amounts according to the length of their trip.
" One photographic, video, or motion picture camera, including a power source, except professional equipment. Up to 12 rolls of film, or videotapes.
" Books and magazines
" One used sports article or piece of equipment for individual use which can be transported by one person.
" Up to 20 packs of cigarettes or 50 cigars.
" A maximum of 3 liters (approx. 3 quarts) of wine or alcohol if the passenger is an adult.
" Medicine for personal use. (with your prescription).
" Suitcases or bags to transport the items.
If you are legally a resident of another country in addition to the items listed, you may bring into Mexico, tax free:
" Binoculars
" A photographic camera
" A portable television
" A radio/tape recorder with a maximum of 20 records or tapes.
" A typewriter or portable computer
" Up to five used toys (if the passenger is a minor)
" Fishing Tackle
" A pair of skis
" Two Tennis rackets
" A non-motorized boat up to 5 1/2 meters in length or a surfboard, with or without a sail
" Camping equipment and a tent.
If you are traveling by camper, trailer or motor home you may also bring in:
" A video cassette recorder(VCR)
" A bicycle (with or without a motor)
" Household linens and kitchen utensils
" Living room and bedroom furniture
Importing Additional Merchandise
You may import additional merchandise valued at up to $1,000.00 U.S. Dollars by paying a corresponding tax without the intervention of a customs broker. (Contact Mexican Customs for the list)
In addition, you may impose without the services of a customs broker, one computer system as long as its value, added to the above merchandise, (of $1,000.00) does not exceed $4,000.00 U .S. Currency.
To pay the tax, multiply the value of your excess merchandise by 20.84% (if the product originated in the U.S. or Canada).
This information, supplied by Paisano Information at the Mexican Border, is subject to change.
It is forbidden to introduce drugs, fire arms and explosives into Mexico. If you do so, you will be subject to penalties and imprisonment.
VISAS - are obtained at the first building on the right after you clear the border check station at Lukeville. A Visa is required IF you are going beyond Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point). You will need
proof of citizenship such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, voter's registration etc. (a driver's license is NOT proof of citizenship.)
Pets
If you take your dog or cat into Mexico, you are required to have:
1) A U.S. veterinarian's certificate Form 77-043 and
2) A rabies inoculation permit valid within the past 6 months.
We encourage you to follow our Puerto Penasco Mexico travel tips for the best possible vacation!
Don’t Leave Your Brains At the Border
Since most of your trips to Rocky Point will be short you will want to make some smart decisions which can be the difference in a great weekend or the worst weekend you have ever known. These tips will be good for your health and for your pleasure because you will want to know when to stop and what you should avoid.
1. Water
You will find that Puerto Penasco or better known as Rocky Point has three plants that purify water for the people that live here and the businesses that do business here. You can use water from the tap. It is fine for brushing your teeth and you are safe drinking it while at a restaurant in Rocky Point. However you may choose to bring your own supply or you will be happy to know iy is readily available for ourchase at several of the local tiendas, gas stations , and liquor stores.
2. Don’t get stressed out!! You will want to give yourself ample planning time and preparation for your trip to Rocky point. You will want to do all your packing and planning at least a day or so ahead so that you will have everything you need and no stress along the way. Make sure you remember any prescription medications you will need as well as extra money and for sure do not forget your purse and identification. If you give yourself enough time to plan and prepare your trip will be most enjoyable.
3. Don’t forget the SUNSCREEN!!! You should always use sunscreen while in Rocky Point or anywhere for that matter. You will find that most of your days will be spent relaxing on the beach. You should first apply sunscreen first thing in the morning before you get dressed. You will find that this tip is good no matter what time of year it is. The sun is very stronh here, even in the winter months. Once you start to get a little pink you should be sure to cover up your skin. You willnotice that you will still get sun through your clothing. You should stick to lightweight clothing that is white or light colors as that reflects the least amount of sun.
4. Always wear shoes! You may want to always go barefoot and feel the sand between your toes but it is not worth it if you are moving around. You could burn your feet on the sand, get a sunburn from the sun, or step on a piece of broken glass and that would surely ruin your trip, so please where shoes.
5. The most common problem here in Rocky Point is people over doing themselves! It is very common for young party animals to flock here for the weekend and try to drink as much beer and tequila as their bodies can hold. Bad choice if you want to enjoy your stay here. There will always be an endless supply of beer and tequila, it is not going anywhere so be sure to exercise moderation or you may find yourself very sick with the “revenge” and then you will blame it on Rocky Point when you are really the only one to blame.