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MONEY IN
MEXICO |
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The tourism sector in Mexico is thriving, meaning more foreign currency for the country and, of course, the creation of employment through touristic services.
In this section, we provide you, the tourist, with the following information so as to facilitate your stay regarding access to your money and security issues.
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ATM Machines in Mexico |
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ATM machines utilize the Cirus and Plus systems allowing travelers to access their home accounts, wherever they may be. Withdrawals made are generally transacted in Mexican pesos though the introduction of some dollar dealing ATMs has already taken place.
NOTE: Only withdraw money from the ATM machines
during the day,
preferably from inside banks,
commercial centers or supermarkets.
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Banks and Bureau de Change in Mexico |
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Banks and Bureau de Change are the best places to change foreign banknotes to pesos. These institutions generally offer service between 09:00 and 16:00 hours, Monday to Friday, and from 10:00 to 14:00 hours on Saturday.
Beware, some banks will only actually change
money
until 12 noon, even midweek.
Go early - not moneyless!
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Credit Cards in Mexico |
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The main credit cards, such as Visa, Master Card and American Express are accepted at most establishments.
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LOST OR STOLEN BANK CARDS |
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--- emergency telephone numbers ---
report the loss A.S.A.P.
outside Mexico City, first dial:
01-55
then the appropriate number
from the list
below:
Amex: 5326-2626
Banamex: 1226-2639
Bancomer: 5226-2663
Banorte: 5140-5600
HSBC: 5721-3390
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Currency in Mexico |
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Mexican Peso coins are of the following denominations:
5, 10, 20 and 50 centavos and 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 pesos
Mexican Peso banknotes are of the following denominations:
20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 pesos
To see samples of Mexico's banknotes,
check out the links below.
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Security in Mexico |
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Avoid carrying excess cash and avoid
wearing ostentatious clothing and accessories.
Valuables should be left in the hotel safe,
or with the personnel on the reception desk.
Remember:
tourists are easy pickings anywhere in the world!
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Taxes in Mexico |
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A Value Added Tax of 15% is applied to all products except books, and medicines. Hotels charge an additional 2% during your stay, although this is generally included in the price of the room.
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Tipping in Mexico |
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People usually give waiters a tip equivalent to 15% of the bill, while hotel staff, tourist guides and tour operators are usually offered at least a couple of dollars a day.
Normally, taxi drivers only expect a tip if they have helped you with your luggage, or some other service, additional to the trip itself.
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Travelers Cheques in Mexico |
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Changing travelers checks in banks is best while you're still in the airport, many other bank branches give you a hard time changing travelers checks, in some cases actually refusing point blank.
Changing cheques in restaurants and stores is, like anywhere in the world, a bad idea due to poor or terrible exchange rates!
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