There is both an entry and exit official Immigration Form on the same paper. You’ll likely fill out both at the airport upon arriving but keep the exit one for when you leave the country!
Cash is needed at markets and street vendors. The airport is a good place to exchange American cash to Mexican pesos, both easy and cost effective if you have leftover Mexican currency. There’s no need to get a SIM card for a short trip, as there’s a good amount of free WIFI throughout the city.
There is a large police presence as well as metal scanners in most landmarks or buildings. Don’t let this deter you. You can still enter and no one pays attention to the scanners.
Putting your coat/jacket on your chair is so passé. Mexicans like their mini coat racks located next to most tables when dining.
It will be assumed you can speak Spanish even if you look like a gringo. Everyone we encountered was very nice and will do their best to translate or charade the message.
Sit down restaurants embrace beautiful décor and plating. The ceramics, pottery and centerpieces are all Instagram worthy.
Look up! The art, mosaics and tiles on the ceilings are super impressive in the historic buildings.
Look down! Absentminded walking on the uneven and hole ridden sidewalks of Mexico City is treacherous.
Despite the tendency to focus on street food, indoor/outdoor markets and easygoing vibe, there are some world renowned homes, museums, artwork and restaurants.
I’ve heard so many different versions of tipping. SO setting the record straight, according to locals 10-15% at restaurants is ideal. At a coffee shop or similar, leaving the change is fine.
Mexicans are passionate and there’s A LOT of PDA happening.
Uber is the best way to get around. It’s very inexpensive and efficient. Traffic is a given and will interfere either way.
Markets are super chill. Vendors will say hello but there’s no pressure at all to buy. Haggling isn’t as common.
There are no stop signs, so double check for oncoming traffic before crossing the street.
Museums and attractions offer free admission to Mexican residents on Sundays and locals take advantage of it. You’ll find crowds and long lines at any major landmarks.
Mexicans like to dance. You’ll see beginners learning and performances throughout the open squares and parks in the city. The club scene at night is also a celebrated tradition.
Speaking of clubs, one of the strangest things we encountered were “toques,” when people choose to clutch two metal bars and allow themselves to be electrocuted, just for fun. You can also accomplish the spark in a small circle.
Houses have an emphasis on architectural lines and bold colors. Fashion and clothing tend to be darker and more conservative.
Corn is 50% of local diets and is an iconic symbol and representation of Mexico in art.
If you’re hungry you don’t have to go far. Tamales, tacos and tostadas are offered at restaurants, markets, street vendors and roaming bikes aka “basket tacos.”
Mexico City is earthquake prone and there are many unstable buildings in the city covered by a grey netting which means they are in the process of being demolished. There is alarm system in place where a siren is triggered and goes off 60-90 seconds before the earthquake so that people can find a safe location.
The city is buzzing. Fiery conversations, football games, local music, sizzling grills and sounds of traffic fill the air.
As my local tour guide said, it’s not that Mexico City doesn’t have any rules, but the city is flexible!
