Climate
The Yucatán's hot climate makes it a great destination
all year round, but you'll get the most out of a visit to
La Ruta Maya if you go between November to March because this
avoids both the wet season (mid-August through mid-October)
and the hottest weather (mid-April through mid-June). Planning
is necessary when travelling because the temperatures between
the beaches and the highlands can vary quite noticeably.
Dress
Practicality should your main consideration when planning
a trip along La Ruta Maya. When visiting smaller villages
in Mexico, Guatemala or Belize, women wearing skirts and covered
shoulders will draw less attention to themselves. In bigger
towns relatively conservative clothing is fine, and on the
more commercial beaches and resorts, anything goes. Covering
your arms and legs when entering a Church is respectful but
not often insisted upon.
Cash
The local currency in Mexico is the Peso (MXN).
Approx. conversions are:
$1 US = 9.2 mxn
EURO 1 = 8.2 mxn
POUND 1 = 13.3 mxn
The local currency in Belize is the Belize Dollar
(BZD), which is currently
$1 US = 1.97 bzn
1 euro = 1.76 bzn
1 pound = 2.86 bzn
Guatemala's currency is the Quetzal (GTQ),
which is currently
$1 = 7.9 gtq
1 Euro = 7.0 gtq
1 pound = 11.5 gtq
Check you local currency exchange bureau for up to date rates.
Language
Mexico
Spanish is the dominant language of Mexico, but many
Mexican's living in resort areas will speak some English.
Also, in the Yucatán, a variety of Mayan languages
are still spoken.
Belize
English is Belize's national language, but many people
in northern Belize speak Spanish as a first language,
and many black people of Belize also speak the distinct dialect
of Creole.
Guatemala
Officially, Spanish is the national language of Guatemala,
but Garifuna and some 21 Mayan languages are
spoken. Many of the Mayans can speak Spanish but not all,
especially some women and children.
Visas
Visas requirements vary drastically, for Visa requirements
for Mexico, Belize or Guatemala, check with your local embassy
for the most up to date information.
Health
Generally avoid tap water in all three countries. Malaria
can be an issue in some regions, so it might be wise to begin
taking anti-malarial medication before going abroad (Chloroquine
is the recommended vaccine). Dengue Fever and Cholera
are other diseases that aren't widespread, but can be contacted,
especially if sanitation is poor.
Travel
Mexico, Guatemala and Belize are quite well serviced by buses,
which is usually the cheapest option, and one that takes the
pressure off drivers trying to negotiate the hectic and bizarre
world of Central American roads, traffic, police and toll
booths.
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