What You Need to Know Before You Travel to Mexico or the Caribbean

Destination Information

The Caribbean and Mexico are two regions in the Americas, known for their beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and popular tourist destinations. Both regions attract millions of tourists annually.

The Caribbean is a group of islands and coastal territories in the Caribbean Sea, comprising both sovereign nations and dependent territories. It is celebrated for its stunning beaches, warm tropical climate, and a wide range of water activities. The region is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting a mix of indigenous, African, European, and Asian influences, resulting in a rich tapestry of music, art, and cuisine.

Mexico, while not located in the Caribbean Sea, is a prominent destination in the broader Caribbean and Central American region. Mexico is celebrated for its diverse offerings, including historic Mayan and Aztec archaeological sites, vibrant cities, lush jungles, and beautiful coastlines. It is known for its world-class cuisine, from tacos and tamales to regional specialties like mole and ceviche.

Interesting Facts

Countries: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curaçao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Saba, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sint Eustatius, Sint Maarten, The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands

Antigua has 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. It hosts one of the Caribbean’s largest annual sailing events, Antigua Sailing Week.
The Bahamas is an archipelago of over 700 islands and is known for its vibrant Junkanoo festivals and clear blue waters ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Cuba is famous for its abundance of classic cars, many of which date back to the mid-20th century.
Curaçao is known for its colorful architecture and is home to the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, a floating pedestrian bridge.
Mexico is renowned for its ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins, including Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan.

Countries

International Airports

Population (Million)

Trip Planning

When to Visit

Best Time
The best time to visit Mexico and the Caribbean are during their dry seasons. For Mexico it spans from late November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with little rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country. For the Caribbean it spans from December to April. This period offers sunny and dry weather, making it perfect for beach vacations and water activities.

Peak Time
The peak tourist season is from December to April, particularly around the Christmas and New Year holidays. Many travelers visit Mexico during this time, resulting in higher prices and crowded tourist destinations. Other visitors want to escape the cold in North America and Europe to enjoy the Caribbean’s warmth, resulting in higher prices and crowded resorts.

Cheapest Time
The cheapest time to visit Mexico is during the low season, from May to early November. During the rainy season, you can find lower prices for accommodations and travel. The cheapest time to visit the Caribbean is during the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.

Most Expensive Time
The most expensive time to visit both Mexico and the Caribbean are during major holidays and festivals, such as Christmas, New Year, and Semana Santa (Holy Week). Prices for accommodations and flights tend to be highest during these peak travel periods.

Major Holidays

January
New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo): January 1
Mexico & Caribbean
Three Wise Men Day (Día de Reyes): January 6
Mexico
Epiphany (Día de los Santos Reyes): January 6
Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, parts of Cuba

February
Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución): February 5
Mexico
Flag Day (Día de la Bandera): February 24
Mexico
Carnival: dates vary annually (Feb/Mar)
Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Barbados, Dominican Republic
Ash Wednesday (Miércoles de Ceniza): dates vary annually (Feb/Mar)
Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Saint Lucia

March
Benito Juárez’s Birthday (Natalicio de Benito Juárez): March 21
Mexico
Good Friday (Viernes Santo): dates vary annually (Mar/Apr)
Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Haiti
Easter Sunday (Domingo de Pascua): dates vary annually (Mar/Apr)
Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis

April
Children’s Day (Día del Niño): April 30
Mexico

May
Labor Day (Día del Trabajo): May 1
Mexico, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas
Cinco de Mayo (Batalla de Puebla): May 5
Mexico
Teacher’s Day (Día del Maestro): May 15
Mexico
Mother’s Day (Día de las Madres): May 10
Mexico

June
Father’s Day (Día del Padre): Third Sunday
Mexico

July

August
Emancipation Day: dates vary annually, by country
Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Jamaica

September
Independence Day (Día de la Independencia): September 16
Mexico

October
Columbus Day (Día de la Raza): October 12
Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, parts of Cuba
Diwali (Festival of Lights): dates vary annually (Oct/Nov)
Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname

November
Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos): November 2
Mexico
Revolution Day (Día de la Revolución): Third Monday
Mexico

December
Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe (Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe): December 12
Mexico
Christmas (Navidad): December 25
Mexico & Caribbean
Boxing Day (Día de San Esteban): December 26
Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands
New Year’s Eve (Nochevieja): December 31

Weather

Mexico
Winter (December to February):
– In northern Mexico and at higher elevations, winters can be quite cold with low temperatures
– Coastal areas enjoy milder and more pleasant temperatures, making them popular destinations for snowbirds
– Mexico City can experience cool temperatures, especially at night

Spring (March to May):
– Temperatures are generally pleasant and coastal areas begin to warm up
– Inland areas, including Mexico City, experience mild and comfortable weather

Summer (June to August):
– Beginning of rainy season in Mexico’s central and southern regions
– Coastal areas are hot and humid, with occasional rain showers or thunderstorms
– The Yucatán Peninsula and the Gulf Coast are particularly humid during this time
– Higher elevations and northern regions tend to have warmer and drier weather

Fall (September to November):
– Rainy season continues in Mexico’s central and southern regions
– Hurricanes can affect the eastern and southern coasts in late summer and early fall
– Northern and central highland areas enjoy milder temperatures and drier conditions

Caribbean
Dry Season (Late November to Mid-April):
– Warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and low rainfall
– Daytime temperatures range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30°C)
– Trade winds provide a pleasant breeze and help mitigate high humidity

Rainy Season/Hurricane Season (June to November):
– Highest hurricane risk in August and September
– Some areas, such as the Gulf of Mexico, are more prone to hurricanes
– Increase in rainfall and the possibility of hurricanes or tropical storms
– Rainfall can vary, but it’s generally higher in the late summer and fall
– Humidity levels are elevated, and brief, passing showers, often called “trade wind showers,” are common
– Sea remains warm and is suitable for swimming, but visitors should be prepared for occasional rain

Country Details

Anguilla
Capital City: The Valley
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: AI
Calling Code: +1-264
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: XCD (Eastern Caribbean Dollar)

Antigua and Barbuda
Capital City: St. John’s
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: AG
Calling Code: +1-268
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: XCD (Eastern Caribbean Dollar)

Aruba
Capital City: Oranjestad
Official Languages: Dutch (67%), Papiamento (29%), English (5%)
Country Code: AW
Calling Code: +297
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police), 911 (Medical), 911 (Fire)
Currency: AWG (Aruban Florin)

The Bahamas
Capital City: Nassau
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: BS
Calling Code: +1-242
Emergency Numbers: 919 (Police), 919 (Medical), 919 (Fire)
Currency: BSD (Bahamian Dollar)

Barbados
Capital City: Bridgetown
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: BB
Calling Code: +1-246
Emergency Numbers: 211 (Police), 511 (Medical), 311 (Fire)
Currency: BBD (Barbadian Dollar)

Cayman Islands
Capital City: George Town
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: KY
Calling Code: +1-345
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: KYD (Cayman Islands Dollar)

Cuba
Capital City: Havana
Official Language: Spanish (100%)
Country Code: CU
Calling Code: +53
Emergency Numbers: 106 (Police), 104 (Medical), 105 (Fire)
Currency: CUP (Cuban Peso), CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso)

Curaçao
Capital City: Willemstad
Official Languages: Dutch (5%), Papiamento (74%), English (8%)
Country Code: CW
Calling Code: +599
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police), 912 (Medical), 911 (Fire)
Currency: ANG (Netherlands Antillean Guilder)

Dominica
Capital City: Roseau
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: DM
Calling Code: +1-767
Emergency Numbers: 999 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: XCD (Eastern Caribbean Dollar)

Dominican Republic
Capital City: Santo Domingo
Official Language: Spanish (100%)
Country Code: DO
Calling Code: +1-809, +1-829, +1-849
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: DOP (Dominican Peso)

Grenada
Capital City: St. George’s
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: GD
Calling Code: +1-473
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: XCD (Eastern Caribbean Dollar)

Guadeloupe
Capital City: Basse-Terre
Official Language: French (100%)
Country Code: GP
Calling Code: +590
Emergency Numbers: 17 (Police), 15 (Medical), 18 (Fire)
Currency: EUR (Euro)

Haiti
Capital City: Port-au-Prince
Official Languages: French (20%), Haitian Creole (80%)
Country Code: HT
Calling Code: +509
Emergency Numbers: 114 (Police), 116 (Medical), 115 (Fire)
Currency: HTG (Haitian Gourde)

Jamaica
Capital City: Kingston
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: JM
Calling Code: +1-876
Emergency Numbers: 119 (Police), 110 (Medical), 110 (Fire)
Currency: JMD (Jamaican Dollar)

Martinique
Capital City: Fort-de-France
Official Language: French (100%)
Country Code: MQ
Calling Code: +596
Emergency Numbers: 17 (Police), 15 (Medical), 18 (Fire)
Currency: EUR (Euro)

Mexico
Capital City: Mexico City
Official Language: Spanish (98%)
Country Code: MX
Calling Code: +52
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police), 911 (Medical), 911 (Fire)
Currency: MXN (Mexican Peso)

Puerto Rico
Capital City: San Juan
Official Languages: Spanish, English
Country Code: PR
Calling Code: +1-787, +1-939
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: USD (United States Dollar)

Saba
Capital City: The Bottom
Official Languages: Dutch (100%)
Country Code: BQ
Calling Code: +599
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police), 911 (Medical), 911 (Fire)
Currency: USD (United States Dollar)

Saint Kitts and Nevis
Capital City: Basseterre
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: KN
Calling Code: +1-869
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: XCD (Eastern Caribbean Dollar)

Saint Lucia
Capital City: Castries
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: LC
Calling Code: +1-758
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: XCD (Eastern Caribbean Dollar)

Saint Martin (French part)
Capital City: Marigot
Official Languages: French (official), English, Dutch
Country Code: MF
Calling Code: +590
Emergency Numbers: 17 (Police), 15 (Medical), 18 (Fire)
Currency: EUR (Euro)

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Capital City: Kingstown
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: VC
Calling Code: +1-784
Emergency Numbers: 999 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: XCD (Eastern Caribbean Dollar)

Sint Eustatius
Capital City: Oranjestad
Official Languages: Dutch (100%)
Country Code: BQ
Calling Code: +599
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police), 911 (Medical), 911 (Fire)
Currency: USD (United States Dollar)

Sint Maarten (Dutch part)
Capital City: Philipsburg
Official Languages: Dutch (67%), English (15%), French (10%)
Country Code: SX
Calling Code: +1-721
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police), 912 (Medical), 919 (Fire)
Currency: ANG (Netherlands Antillean Guilder)

Trinidad and Tobago
Capital City: Port of Spain
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: TT
Calling Code: +1-868
Emergency Numbers: 999 (Police), 990 (Medical), 990 (Fire)
Currency: TTD (Trinidad and Tobago Dollar)

Turks and Caicos Islands
Capital City: Cockburn Town
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: TC
Calling Code: +1-649
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: USD (United States Dollar)

U.S. Virgin Islands
Capital City: Charlotte Amalie
Official Language: English (100%)
Country Code: VI
Calling Code: +1-340
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: USD (United States Dollar)

Airlines, Alliances & Hubs

Caribbean Airlines (BW)
Alliance: None
Hub: POS – Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

Copa Airlines (CM)
Alliance: Star Alliance
Hubs:
BOG – Bogotá, Colombia
LIM – Lima, Peru
PTY – Panama City, Panama
SJO – San Jose, Costa Rica

LIAT (Leeward Islands Air Transport) (LI)
Alliance: None
Hub: ANU – St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda

InterCaribbean Airways (JY)
Alliance: None
Hub: PLS – Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Air Antilles (3S)
Alliance: None
Hub: PTP – Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe

Air Caraïbes (TX)
Alliance: None
Hub: PTP – Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe

Seaborne Airlines (BB)
Alliance: None
Hub: SJU – San Juan, Puerto Rico

American Airlines (AA)
Alliance: One World
Hubs:
CLT – Charlotte, South Carolina
DFW – Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas
JFK – New York, New York
LAX – Los Angeles, California
MIA – Miami, Florida
ORD – Chicago O’Hare, Illinois
PHL – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
PHX – Phoenix, Arizona

Delta Airlines (DL)
Alliance: Sky Team
Hubs:
ATL – Atlanta, Georgia
DTW – Detroit, Michigan
JFK – New York, New York
LAX – Los Angeles, California
MSP – Minneapolis, Minnesota
SEA – Seattle, Washington
SLC – Salt Lake City, Utah

JetBlue (B6) Airways
Alliance: No Alliance, but has partners
Hubs:
BOS – Boston, Massachusetts
FLL – Fort Lauderdale, Florida
JFK – New York, New York
LGB – Long Beach, California
MCO – Orlando, Florida

FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to Mexico?
The visa requirements for Mexico depend on your nationality. Some countries may require a visa, while others may be exempt for short tourist visits. It’s important to check with the Mexican embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the specific visa requirements for your situation. Visit this website to learn more details before your trip to Mexico.

Do I need a visa to travel to the Caribbean?
Many Caribbean countries offer visa-free access or visa on arrival to travelers from various countries for tourism or short stays. This includes many Western countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and European Union nations. Some Caribbean countries may require a visa for certain nationalities, particularly if you intend to stay for an extended period or for purposes other than tourism. The US offers a great tool, called the visa wizard to help you determine what you need prior to your trip, which you can visit here.

Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the Caribbean country you plan to visit. Some countries may also require a certain number of blank pages in your passport for entry.

Is it customary to tip in Mexico and the Caribbean?
Tipping practices vary by island and establishment, are some standard practices to consider are:

- Tipping is common (10-15% in restaurants, for tour guide and other service providers): Mexico, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saba, Saint Martin (French part), Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius.
- Tipping is customary (10-15% in restaurants) and may include a 10%-15% gratuity: the Bahamas, Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, Cayman Islands.
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory (10% in restaurants): Cuba, Dominica, and Haiti.
- Tipping is customary (10-15% in restaurants) but additional tipping is appreciated: Puerto Rico, Turks and Caicos Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands.

What is the legal drinking age in Mexico and the Caribbean?
The legal drinking age in all countries is 18 years old, with the exception of Haiti and Sint Eustatius, where it is 16 years old.

Do I need to rent a car to get around Mexico or the Caribbean?
Whether you need to rent a car depends on your specific travel plans and the destination. In some tourist areas, public transportation and taxis are readily available. In less developed areas, renting a car may be more convenient for exploring.

What side of the road do people drive on in Mexico and the Caribbean?
The side of the road on which people drive in the Caribbean varies by island and depends on historical influences. In many Caribbean countries, including the British Overseas Territories, people drive on the left side of the road. However, some islands, and Mexico, follow right-hand driving.

- Right side Driving: Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Puerto Rico, Saba, Saint Martin (French part), Sint Eustatius, Sint Maarten
- Left side Driving: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands

What is the legal age to rent a car in Mexico and the Caribbean?
Typically, you need to be at least 21, in both Mexico and the Caribbean. However in certain countries, the legal age is 25 years old or older. Rental car agencies have specific age requirements and policies, so it’s advisable to check with the rental company you plan to use.

Are there specific travel restrictions or regulations I should be aware of for Mexico and the Caribbean?
Travel regulations and restrictions can vary, and it’s essential to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and requirements, especially when it comes to documents, health regulations, and safety guidelines. To learn more about this, if you’re a US citizen, check this government website and input the country you’re visiting to confirm.

What is the general etiquette when greeting someone in Mexico?
Greeting customs in the Caribbean are generally warm and friendly. Handshakes and smiles are common. In some places, a light hug or kiss on the cheek may be used among friends and acquaintances. It’s polite to use polite titles and greetings, such as “Mr.” or “Mrs.,” until invited to use first names. Respect for elders is important in many Caribbean cultures.

What is the general etiquette when greeting someone in the Caribbean?
In Mexico, common greetings include a firm handshake and saying “Hola” (hello) or “Buenos días” (good morning) depending on the time of day. It is polite to use titles like “Señor” (Mr.) or “Señora” (Mrs.) when addressing people, followed by their last name, to show respect. Additionally, a kiss on the cheek is a common greeting among friends and acquaintances, but a handshake is also widely accepted.