What To Know Before You Go To
Mexico

  • How to Prepare for your Pilgrimage

    Thanks for visiting our Know Before You Go resources! Our mission at 206 Tours is to take care of all the logistics of your pilgrimage so that you can focus on preparing spiritually for a sanctifying experience! The information below details everything you need to know before going on your trip.

    Do I need to know the local language?
    Your tour guide will conduct the pilgrimage in English but is multilingual, so they are able to communicate to locals for you should you need any assistance.

    How can I prepare for my pilgrimage?

    • Prepare Physically: If you are not accustomed to physical activity, begin walking 1-2 times a day. We recommend that pilgrims be able to walk up to 2 – 3 miles easily.
    • Prepare Spiritually: Attend daily Mass if possible, or spend quiet time in Adoration. You can also begin (or continue) to pray the Rosary daily.

    How should I raise questions/concerns during my pilgrimage?
    If you need help during your pilgrimage, your guide is there to assist you at all times! Please communicate any problems, concerns, or complaints directly to your tour guide immediately so that they can best address your needs. Your guide is at your disposal to help with hotel accommodations, meals, transportation, and anything else you might need assistance with. There is little that can be done to rectify a concern once you return home, so please communicate any issues as soon as possible during the pilgrimage. Most concerns can be dealt with swiftly once brought to your guide’s attention. If you feel your tour guide does not adequately address your problem, please contact our office at sales@206tours.com

  • General Info About Your Documents, Flights, Arrival & Travel

    Please visit www.tsa.gov for the most up to date travel restrictions

    Passports and Visas

    206 Tours recommends that your PASSPORT is valid up to 6 months after your return flight.

    If you have not yet obtained your passport, or just noticed that it will be valid 0 months after your return, URGENTLY contact your local passport office and apply for an expedited passport or passport renewal. A visa is not required for U.S. citizens to enter Mexico.

    For those who hold a passport from a foreign country, please be advised that it is the passenger’s responsibility to reconfirm if any visas are required. You can find information on the US embassy in Mexico here.

    Airport Check-In

    Do I have to check-in for my flights online?
    Yes, we strongly advise all pilgrims to check-in online prior to travel. We recommend downloading the smartphone app and/or visiting the website of the airline(s) you are flying on. This will allow you to digitally check-in to your flights at least 24 hours prior to departure. This will also allow you to sign up for any possible urgent notifications regarding upgrades or changes to your flights.

    How do I check-in at the airport?
    First you must obtain your ticket in one of the following ways:

    • Smartphone app: If using your airline’s app, your ticket will be provided as a QR-code.
    • Kiosk: If you do not use an app, go to the kiosk in the airport and enter your E-ticket number located on the flight itinerary 206 Tours provides to you. A ticket stub will be printed by the kiosk.

    You must personally check your own luggage at the airline counter. Inquire with the check-in agent of your final destination to ensure that your luggage will be checked all the way through. This will eliminate the need to claim your luggage between flights and re-check it before your connecting flight.

    How early should I arrive at the airport?

    • Domestic Travel: Arrive at least two (2) hours prior to flight
    • International Travel: Arrive at least three (3) hours prior to flight
    Airline Connections

    Where is my flight itinerary?
    206 Tours provides you with your flight itinerary via email as well as printed in your final documents package. This itinerary shows the airline, flight number, departure and arrival times, and seat/meal information. It is recommended to keep the printed copy with you or download the itinerary to your smartphone for easy reference.

    How are my flights arranged?
    206 Tours books airline reservations in accordance with TSA rules, regulations & routings. We do our utmost to provide the most convenient flight schedule available. Pilgrims will be traveling independently on all flights.

    Why does my plane reservation say one airline, but the plane reads another?
    Many airlines participate in special agreements to share aircrafts. For example, your ticket may show United Airlines as your carrier even though you are actually seated on a Lufthansa plane. These are called “codeshare” flights, and if applicable it will be shown on your itinerary in the following way: “Flight operated by (airline).”

    Who decides the connection time at airports?
    The airlines determine the minimum connection time required to transfer from one gate to another for a connecting flight. 206 Tours does our best to provide ample connection time based on available flights and in accordance with our scheduled group transfers.

    Flight Delays & Arrival Transfers

    What if my flight is delayed or canceled?
    If your flight is delayed or canceled, you must work DIRECTLY with the airline agents at the airport to arrange for alternate flights. Once you check-in for your flights, 206 Tours can no longer make any adjustments to your flight itinerary. After check-in, changes can only be made by the airlines.

    In this scenario, please be persistent with the airline agent you are working with to rebook. Keep in mind that the situation is not the agent’s fault and try your best to remain calm and courteous to receive speedy assistance. Keep in mind that the airlines are not required to offer reimbursement for overnight stays when delays/cancellations occur due to weather. If you find that you are unable to receive adequate assistance from airline personnel, please contact the 206 Tours emergency line and we will do all we can to assist you remotely.

    TIP: Once your airline has rebooked you, text/call your guide to advise them of your new arrival time so that transfer arrangements can be adjusted. Your guide’s phone number can be found in the digital confirmation email sent to you by your account manager.

    What if I miss the group transfer upon arrival?
    If you miss the group transfer to the hotel due to a flight delay, missed connection, or another reason, you may:

    • Take a taxi to the hotel at your own expense.
    • Contact your guide and ask for 206 Tours to arrange a private transfer at an additional cost. 

    *Be sure to obtain a receipt of your transportation. Upon returning home, you may wish to seek reimbursement for the cost  if the reason for missing the transfer was due to airline problems.

    What if I want to make a last-minute change to my ticket?
    If you would like to make changes to your airline ticket once it has already been issued, you MUST work DIRECTLY with the airlines. You will incur additional costs (a minimum of $400 per person) for such changes.

    Arrival Procedure

    What do I do when my flight lands?
    After deplaning, you will make your way through customs and then to baggage claim. Pay attention to the monitors above the conveyor belts in baggage claim. The conveyor that your bags will come out on will have monitors above it displaying your flight #. Once you collect your luggage, proceed to the arrivals hall. There, you will meet your guide/driver who will have a 206 Tours sign.

    Look for the “206 Tours” Sign!
    In the arrivals hall, you will be greeted by a 206 Tours representative holding a “206 Tours” sign. They will escort you to your hotel where you will check-in and have time to refresh before meeting the rest of the group later in the day.

    TIP: If you do not see your guide/driver, look in that surrounding area (as they may have stepped back to assist another pilgrim). If you still cannot find them, contact your guide by utilizing the phone number provided in your final confirmation email.

    Lost Luggage

    If your luggage is missing, proceed to the baggage office to complete a missing luggage form. Please make sure to save all of the paperwork and tracking information given to you by the airline. Upon locating your baggage, the airlines will deliver the luggage to your hotel. It is very important that you provide them with the correct addresses of your hotels, as well as the dates that you will be staying at each of them (listed  in your final confirmation email). You may also provide the airline with the phone number of your guide. If your baggage is delayed for more than 24 hours, and you purchased insurance, you may submit a claim upon your return to the US. This is only applicable to passengers that purchased travel insurance through 206 Tours.
    *206 Tours strongly suggests that pilgrims carry one change of clothes in their carry-on luggage  and their daily medications in their personal item.

    Apple AirTags

    As you plan your trip, consider including Apple AirTags on your packing checklist. These compact, coin-sized devices act as personal tracking systems, offering a reliable solution to keep tabs on your luggage. Leveraging Apple’s vast Find My network, AirTags allow you to trace your belongings right from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. They’re straightforward to use: simply attach an AirTag to your bag, and voila, your luggage is now traceable on a global scale. The device’s precision finding feature also provides visual and haptic feedback to guide you right to your misplaced or lost item, a feature especially useful in busy airports or hotels.

    If you choose to utilize this tool, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the functionality and limitations of the AirTags before you embark on your journey. While they offer an innovative way to track your belongings, they rely on being in range of devices in the Find My network to relay their location. This means their effectiveness could be limited in areas with low Apple device density or poor internet connectivity. Also, remember that AirTags are designed for tracking objects, not people or pets. A built-in anti-stalking feature notifies individuals if an unknown AirTag is moving with them, so using AirTags for unapproved purposes could lead to unintended alerts. With responsible use, Apple AirTags can add a layer of security and peace of mind to your travel experience.

    If you do not have an apple device, consider one of these other tracking devices. These devices are also good to put on your carry-on, personal item, etc. in case you lose them.

    How to Overcome Jet Lag

    Traveling through time zones affects people differently. Some people get incredibly exhausted from the long flight and time change.  Here are some suggestions that may help you beat jet lag:

    • Pack for your trip at least two days ahead of time.
    • Make sure to go to bed early the night prior to travel.
    • Hydrate! Drink more water than usual to avoid dehydration on the flight. Being seated for long periods of time can be very hard on the body and can cause poor circulation and bloating. Hydration is key to preventing this. 
    • Try to sleep on the plane!
    • Think in “Local Time” – reset your watch to the local time of your destination as soon as you board the flight. It may help to do this one day before travel, or even to slowly transition to local time a couple of days before travel if your schedule allows it.
    • Stay busy – When you arrive at your destination, try to stay busy and go to bed at an appropriate time that night. Pacing is key!
    • Eat fresh, healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, and protein to keep you alert. Heavy, greasy, or high-carb meals will make you more tired.
    • Exercise – take a twenty-minute walk in the morning, stretch before getting on the plane, and get up and walk every now and then during the flight. Moving gets your blood flowing and allows your body to adjust to time changes easier. Make sure to keep moving when you get to your destination, as this will help you stay awake until nighttime. 
    • On the day of return, get out of bed earlier than normal, hydrate, and try to get sleep on the flight home. Reset your watch and start thinking in the local time of your home.
    Baggage Regulations

    How much luggage can I bring?
    Your Pilgrimage Includes:

    • Checked luggage is not included for Mexico departures
    • One (1) carry-on bag
    • One (1) personal item

    Size Allowance: 

    • Length + Width + Height cannot exceed 62 inches/158cm
    • Economy Class: One (1) Checked Bag at 50 lbs/23kg
    • Business Class: Two (2) Checked Bags at 75 lbs/32kg

    TIP: If you cannot pick it up, it is too heavy!

    Carry-on Luggage

    A carry-on bag is the bag you bring on the plane with you, which must fit in the overhead compartments. Airlines are strict about the size of a carry-on bag. If it is too large, you will be subject to fees. Always take vital personal possessions with you at all times, such as your passport, wallet, and medications. Do not pack these or other items that you cannot be without in your carry-on luggage, as it is possible that the airline may ask you to check your carry-on if they run out of overhead space. 

    Size Allowance: 

    • One (1) bag:  Length + Width + Height cannot exceed 42 inches/106 cm 
    • The bag may not exceed 17 lbs (8kg)

    TIP: Our 206 Tours bag meets the measurement requirements. Carrying one of our bags will also make it easy for the guide and/or driver to spot you in the arrivals hall.

    Personal Item
    • One (1) personal item is permitted in addition to your carry-on bag – this can be a laptop, iPad, book, small purse,  etc. If you are unsure if your personal item fits the criteria, look up your airline’s particular guidelines for personal items.

    Carry-on Bags: 3 – 1 – 1 Liquids Rule
    For all liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes:

    • Each item must be 3.4 oz bottle or less (100 ml).
    • All items must fit into one (1) quart-sized, clear, plastic, ziploc bag.
    • Only one (1) ziploc bag is allowed per passenger. Each bag is screened on its own. 
    • Gallon-size bags or fold-over sandwich bags are not allowed.

    For additional information/clarification please visit: www.faa.gov

    Checked Bags:
    Containers of any size are allowed in checked bags. Any container larger than 3.4 oz (100ml) must be in checked baggage, regardless of the amount of product inside.

    Exceptions to the Rule:
    The following exceptions are permitted to exceed 100 ml:

    • Baby formula, breast milk, and juice for infants/toddlers.
    • Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications including eye drops and saline drops.
    • Water, juice, liquid, or gel nutrition for passengers with a doctor’s note.
    • Mastectomy products, prosthetic breasts, bras containing gels/liquids, etc. 
    • Gels/frozen liquids that are required to keep medical items cool. 

    If you are traveling with any of the above items over 100 ml, you must declare the items for inspection at the security checkpoint. The TSA officers may need to see the items for additional screenings.

    Any liquids purchased inside the airport after security are allowed on the airplane. However, if you have a layover and are re-screened before your connecting flight, the liquid rule will apply.

    Personal Items Carry-on Checked
    All Make-up – You are allowed to carry any liquid/gel/cream makeup item provided that the container is up to 3 oz., as per the 3-1-1 rule. *mascara, chapstick, lip gloss, etc are all considered liquids. Yes Yes
    Safety Razors – includes disposable razors Yes Yes
    Saline Solution – You are allowed to carry up to 3 oz., as per the 3-1-1 rule. Volumes greater must be declared to the Security Officer. Yes Yes
    Tweezers, Scissors, Nail Clippers – plastic or metal with blunt tips or metal with pointed tips and blades shorter than four inches in length. Yes Yes
    Shampoos & Conditioners – must be in 3 oz. or smaller container inside your 1 qt Ziploc bag Yes Yes
    Toothpaste – 3 oz. or smaller container inside your 1 qt Ziploc bag Yes Yes
    Umbrellas– allowed in Carry-On baggage once they have been inspected to ensure that prohibited items are not concealed. Yes Yes
    Walking Canes – allowed in Carry-On baggage once they have been inspected to ensure that prohibited items are not concealed. Yes Yes
    Electronics Carry-on Checked
    Camera Equipment – the Checked Baggage Screening Equipment will damage undeveloped film in camera equipment. We recommend that you pack undeveloped film in your Carry-On baggage. Yes Yes
    Laptops, Smartphones & I-Pads Yes Yes
    Food & Drinks Carry-on Checked
    Beverages – from Home or purchased before reaching the Security Checkpoint in containers LARGER than 3 oz. No Yes
    Beverages – from Home or purchased before reaching the Security Checkpoint in a 3 oz. or smaller container and in your quart-size bag Yes Yes
    Beverages – purchased after Security Screening Yes Yes
    Medication, Baby Formula/Food, Breast Milk, & Juice – allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3 oz and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint Yes Yes
    Canned or Jarred Goods – such as soup, sauces, peanut butter, fruits, vegetables and jellies (3 oz. or smaller container) Yes Yes
    Cheese – in pressurized containers (3 oz. or smaller container) Yes Yes
    Duty-Free Alcohol and other items (some restrictions apply) Yes Yes
  • Currency & Money

    Currency

    The Peso (MXN) is the currency of Mexico, though the US dollar is widely accepted. For most current exchange rates please visit www.xe.com. This website provides “pure” exchange rates. Pure rates do not include bank fees.

    FreeCurrencyRates.com

    Money

    Where can I exchange money?

    • Your Bank – Visit your bank before traveling for the best exchange rate
    • Airports – there will be a convenience fee
    • Major boulevards at the destination – there will be a small exchange fee
    • ATM Machine – while in Mexico, an ATM machine is the most practical and cost-effective option. Utilizing your ATM card or debit card, you can also get cash advances on your credit card at an ATM, but there will be high fees.

    ATMs in Mexico
    ATMs, known as ABMs (automatic banking machines) in Mexico can be found just about everywhere and are accessible 24 hours a day. Most offer English as a language option. Be sure to find out your daily withdrawal limit before you depart. Keep in mind: Many banks impose a fee when a card is used at a different bank’s ATM, and this fee may be higher for international transactions (up to $5 or more). For international withdrawal fees please check with your bank prior to departure. Additionally, the bank from which you withdraw cash may charge its own fee.

    Can I use my credit card in Mexico?
    Yes! We highly recommend using your credit card as it offers convenience, reasonable exchange rates, and security (you can cancel them if they are lost!). Visa and Mastercard are the best options, as they are accepted in most stores and restaurants.

    IMPORTANT: Before you leave, inform your bank and credit card companies that you will be traveling in Mexico so that they do not flag, block, or suspend your account due to international transactions.

    How much money should I bring?
    This is totally subjective based on how much you’d like to spend on souvenirs and on the meals not included. Refer to the itinerary for your particular pilgrimage and budget how much money you would like to spend on these two things. Keep in mind how many meals you will be responsible for, and how much room you have in your luggage for souvenirs. Then utilize the exchange rate calculator above. We generally recommend you bring at least 100 dollars per person (keep 50 USD with you and 50 USD in your checked bag).

    TIP: Get your Pesos in small bills, as it is harder to get change at churches and convenience stores if you pay in large bills.

    How does tipping work?
    Tips are an important part of earnings for your guides and bus drivers. While tips for provided meals, local guides, porters, etc. are included, tips to your 206 Tours guide and driver are not. Tips to your guide and driver are up to your discretion. Please use the tip envelopes provided with your travel documents.

    When do I give the guide/driver their tip envelopes?
    We suggest you tip the tour guide and bus driver the day prior to your return. We provide labeled tip envelopes within your final documents package.

    How much should I give?
    Tip according to your discretion and satisfaction level. Tipping in local currency is preferred, but they will gladly accept US dollars as well. We recommend an amount per person/per day below.

    Do I tip the spiritual director?
    This is not required, but some pilgrims choose to give a small gift or donation.

    Tips

    Although you should tip according to your satisfaction level, the following amounts are recommended. The tip envelopes are included in your final documents package.

    Tour guide in Mexico – $10.00 per person per day
    Local currency or US dollars are acceptable

    Bus Driver in Mexico – $5.00 per person per day
    Local currency or US dollars are acceptable

    Spiritual Director/ Your Priest – A gift or donation to
    the spiritual director is at your own discretion.

    Tipping in Mexico:
    Tipping in Mexico is very similar to the US. Tipping is not mandatory but generally expected. Service providers rely on tips to add to their wages, and a tip in the 15% range is perfectly acceptable.

    In hotels, tips to the porters and chambermaids are included. If you are using a taxi on your own, drivers should be given a tip of 10-20% of the metered fare.

    If your group has completely free days and the guide only sees you for a couple of hours or during dinner time, it is really up to you what you want to tip them. Normally most clients calculate a total amount of tips for the guide and driver for total days serviced. Keep in mind that when the tour guide works less hours one day, it normally compensates for the days with longer hours.

    U.S. Customs

    U.S. citizens who have been to Mexico for more than two days may return to the United States with up to $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. For those who wish to bring more home with them, a flat rate of 3% duty is levied on the next $1,000 worth of purchases. It’s a good idea to retain the receipts from your purchases should they be requested by a customs inspector upon your return to the United States. For more details please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel.

    Value Added Tax (VAT) Refund

    There is a 16% value added tax on most goods and services in Mexico. At retail stores, this tax is always already included in the price. Upon making a purchase of 200 dollars or more at a gift store that has an agreement with the VAT authorities, you should acquire a refund document at the store and have it stamped. You will be eligible, upon presenting the form and the item at the airport, for a 16% refund at the airport prior to departure. You must be over 18 years old and you must present a passport to receive the refund. Tourist services (such as hotel accommodations and meals taken in hotels) paid with foreign currency are exempt from VAT tax.

    How to Get Your VAT Refund:

    After you spend the required minimum amount of 200 dollars at a participating retailer, ask for your détaxe papers. If you’re considering a major purchase, ask the store policy before you get too involved or be willing to waive your right to the refund. Fill out the forms before you arrive at the airport for departure to the U.S. . Be sure to have the forms stamped at the airport customs desks. The customs official may ask to see your purchases, so it’s best to pack them in your carry­-on bag. You can either get paid immediately at the refund booth at the airport, or mail in the approved form.

    TIP: Mark the paperwork to request that your refund be applied to your credit card, so you aren’t stuck with a check in Pesos. Even if you made the purchase in cash, you can still get the refund on a credit card. This ensures the best rate of exchange.

  • Luggage & What to Pack

    What to Pack

    The attire during the course of your journey should be conservative and comfortable. When packing for your upcoming pilgrimage, keep in mind that your knees and shoulders should be covered upon entering holy sites. Your clothing should not be revealing. This is out of respect for the local norms and customs as well as for the other pilgrims. We recommend that female pilgrims carry a wrap or a wide skirt in their backpack so that they can put it on over their clothes when entering a church or a holy site.

    Suggested Clothing:
    • For Winter, early Spring, and late Fall: be sure to back a warm jacket, a hat, scarf and gloves. Just in case.
    • For Summer, late Spring, and early Fall: Bring a sunhat and plenty of loose-fitting clothing.
    • Bottoms: comfortable pants or skirts no shorter than knee-length
    • Tops: long or short sleeve tees, blouses, button-downs, polos, or sweaters that are seasonally appropriate. Shoulders should be covered for both men and women.
    • Layers: undershirts, light sweaters, or cardigans are great for layering in the cooler mornings and evenings, even in the Summer.
    • Jacket: a weatherproof rain jacket or all-weather jacket is great to have.
    • Socks, undergarments, pajamas, belt, hat, scarf (large light fabric scarf if needed to cover shoulders), sunglasses, etc.
    • Accessories: wallet, purse, etc.
    • Mid-summer advice: carry a small bottle of water in your hand luggage, and make sure to drink more water than usual, as you will be outside and walking a lot. Avoid eating too much ice-cream and reduce the amount of ice in drinks.
    • A small battery-operated fan may be useful in warm weather.

    TIP: Count the number of days you are traveling. You can always wear pants or shirts twice.

    Don’t forget your most comfortable shoes. This is the most important clothing item to pack. Your feet will thank you!
    Mexico is based on a myriad of old buildings, and there are split levels and uneven surfaces everywhere; please watch your step! Due to the structure of old buildings, access to some establishments may not be convenient for wheelchair use, and facilities for the disabled in general may be limited. Many areas are pedestrian only and have cobblestones. High-heeled shoes are not suitable for cobblestone streets; rubber-soled walking shoes are recommended. Many streets in Mexico are narrow, and due to strict traffic regulations, the buses are not always permitted to drop groups off directly in front of their destination. Please be prepared to walk.

    Should I pack clothes in my carry-on bag?
    Absolutely! Pack at least one change of clothes, socks, undergarments, and daily medications in your carry-on bag in case your baggage is delayed or lost. You may also wish to bring toothpaste, a toothbrush, and deodorant to refresh during your travels.

    What should I wear on the plane?
    Wear loose-fitting clothing on the day of your flight to ensure comfort and to make it easier to sleep on the plane. You may want to pack a pair of slippers in your carry-on or wear slip-off shoes. If not, make sure your shoes are lace-up or flexible, as foot swelling is common on long flights.

    206 Tours Store
    Be sure to check our online clothes store: https://business.landsend.com/store/206tours/

     

    Suggested Toiletries:
    206 Tours uses first-class hotels which include all the necessities you are used to at home. Hotels will provide pillows and blankets, shampoo, conditioner, soap, towels, Wi-Fi, dry cleaning services, and more. That being said, the following are suggested to have on-hand for your comfort and convenience.

    • Travel-size deodorant, toothbrush & toothpaste, shampoo & conditioner, body wash/soap, lotion, gel, hair spray, shaving cream, mouthwash, etc.
    • Hairbrush, comb, nail clippers, razors, etc.
    • Sunscreen
    • Travel-size kleenex
    • Pen (to complete custom forms on plane)
    • Band-Aids
    • Chapstick
    • Washcloths
    • Over-the-counter medications (if applicable to you)
      • Vitamins, Dramamine, Aspirin/Advil, etc., antibiotic cream, laxatives, Imodium, Tums/ Pepto Bismol tablets, Sominex or sleep aid, allergy/cold medicine

    TIP: If you need toiletries, inquire with your guide or hotel front desk – they will make suggestions of where to find items for purchase.

    Medical Equipment

    Wheelchair Assistance (Within Airports)
    During registration pilgrims are offered several options for wheelchair assistance, including gate-to-gate assistance or all the way through to the seat. If you’ve made a wheelchair request, 206 Tours will secure this service for you and it will be included in your airline documents. An airport representative will meet you at the check-in desk to assist you.

    CPAP Machines
    Travelers bringing a CPAP machine should contact the airlines ahead of travel. Your airline will be listed on the flight itinerary provided via email within your travel documents.

    Oxygen Tanks
    If you are traveling with oxygen, you must visit your doctor ahead of travel to obtain the necessary paperwork. Only FAA-approved tanks can be checked. Talk to your doctor about Department of Transportation approved battery-powered oxygen concentrators, which are permitted on flights.

    Car Seats & Strollers
    Most airlines allow car seats and strollers for families traveling with young children at no additional cost. Some airlines have restrictions, so it is advisable to call the airlines ahead and ask.

    What electronics should I bring?

    • Cellphone and charger (consider a portable power bank as well).
    • Camera and charger (unless using the camera on your phone).
    • Small flashlight
    Shopping

    Will there be time to shop?
    Yes, limited time has been set aside during your pilgrimage for shopping! The reason it has been scheduled out is that our itineraries require a certain pace to be kept in order to see all the sites. Ask your tour guide for advice about local specialty items. Small, light items that you can easily carry home make splendid souvenirs & gifts. Don’t forget to buy something nice for yourself too!

    TIP: When shopping, use your credit card. That will secure your product, and if anything goes wrong you can claim it accordingly.

    Gift shops at a shrine/church/basilica: cash only
    Some holy sites have small gift shops run by clergy. At these shops, all proceeds are donated to the upkeep of the site. Often credit cards are not accepted. For these reasons, be sure to have cash on hand.

    What if I purchase something that is big/heavy/fragile?
    Arrangements can be made at the shop or hotel to have items shipped to your home.

    What should I avoid when shopping abroad?
    High-traffic areas, especially known tourist attractions, can be common places for pickpockets. Always be aware of your personal belongings when shopping in crowded areas. Try not to take out your money/credit cards in public areas, except at the time of making a purchase.

    Transportation

    Transportation is by private motor coach:
    The same bus will be used to transport you from place to place throughout your whole trip. The duration of driving time between cities/countries can range extensively depending on your itinerary. Some days may include only short transfers on the bus from your hotel to the shrines, churches, museums, restaurants, etc. On other days, you could be on the bus for a couple of hours to travel from one city to another. Depending on the itinerary and location of the sites, your day may require up to 8 hours of driving – broken up by visits, Mass, etc. Regardless of the itinerary for the day, rest assured that the coach will stop for bathroom/stretch breaks (approximately every 2-3 hours), as well as a lunch stop.

    Is the motorcoach “Modern”?
    Yes! All of our motorcoach buses are either brand new or a few years old. They have new upholstery, emergency and safety settings, seatbelts, USB chargers, and a cooler up front for water bottles.

    Does the motorcoach have a restroom?
    No, due to local laws and concerns with chemicals, etc. Multiple stops have been planned out each day for restroom use. If it is urgent, just let your guide know. They will be happy to let you know when the next restroom stop is or plan for an additional stop in case of an emergency. Keep in mind that many of the churches, museums, and restaurants along the way also have restrooms.

    Taxis in Mexico

    Be wary of any person approaching you offering unofficial taxi services. If you do not have an airport transfer included and you need transportation, make your way to the official taxi desk or to the regular taxi line outside the terminal. Choose only those vehicles with a meter and a taxi sign. We recommend you pre-negotiate the fare, as taxi drivers may attempt to overcharge unwary travelers.

  • Average Temperatures

    City Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
    Mexico City Low 41 44 47 51 53 54 53 53 53 50 45 42
    High 74 78 82 84 83 81 78 77 78 77 77 75
  • About Europe & Travel Abroad

    Language

    The official language of Mexico is Spanish. English is widely spoken, and many signs appear in English too

    Hotels Accommodations

    What type of hotels are we staying in?
    206 Tours uses first-class four-star hotels throughout all of our pilgrimages. These hotels have all of the amenities you have at home. All rooms are equipped with a private bathroom, mini-bar items, and access to paid TV channels at your own expense. Rooms will also provide towels. While most hotels do offer a hair dryer in the bathroom as well as basic toiletries, we strongly recommend that you bring an adequate supply with you and any items you consider necessary.

    Single travelers sharing a room will have two (2) twin beds in their hotel room, while a couple will have one double bed in their room (king or queen).

    TIP: Feel free to look at the websites of the hotels listed on our website and in your digital confirmation email. There you can view pictures, videos, and details about the properties.

    How will porterage work at the hotels?
    Do not worry about having to carry your suitcase to your hotel room from the bus. Porterage of one (1) piece of luggage per person is included in the cost of your pilgrimage. The porters will do their best to bring your luggage to you in a timely fashion upon checking into the hotel. At times there may be a short delay due to the size of the group arriving. To make it easier for porters to identify your luggage, make sure your 206 Tours luggage tag is clearly visible. If you prefer to bring your own luggage up to your hotel room, please wait near the bus as the driver and porters unload the luggage for you to identify your bag and bring it with you to your room.

    Adapters, Converters, & Electricity

    Will I need an adapter?

    No. Mexico uses the same kind of plugs as the US, so you do not need an adapter. If you are coming from any other country, make sure you bring an American plug with you or an adapter. Mexico uses types A and B plug sockets (see below pictures).

                       

    Will I need a Converter?
    No, as the standard voltage is the same as in the United States of America. The standard voltage is 120 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. If traveling from another country, converters are rarely needed as most electronics are built to convert the voltage. All hotels have hair dryers, so you would only need to bring a converter if you were bringing your own hair dryer or a curling iron/hair straightener (which are not necessary on a pilgrimage). If you are bringing a laptop, check with the manufacturer. Newer models of most laptops and iPads have a converter built-in. If necessary, converter kits that include the entire range of plugs can be purchased online or in stores.

    Cell Phones

    Can I use my smartphone on the pilgrimage?
    Yes, you can use your smartphone on the pilgrimage. Be sure to contact your service provider and inform them that you will be traveling to Mexico. Most providers offer an “international plan.” This will allow you to make calls to the United States while you are out of the country. Some providers offer a “passport plan” where you pay a flat fee per day that allows you to use your phone normally without roaming or data fees. With this plan, you will be able to utilize calling and texting features as well as apps that allow you to call home for free (such as WhatsApp) while utilizing WiFi.

    TIP: Refrain from using hotel phones. They are available for convenience but cost substantially more than using a cellphone.

    Calling from Mexico to the USA
    To make a direct international call from a mobile number, first dial “011” and then dial the country code (1 for the US and Canada, just like at home), then the local area code and telephone number. For example, 011-1-123-456-7890. To use a landline, omit the initial 011.

    Calling from the USA to Mexico
    If your family wishes to call you during the pilgrimage from within the US, they must first dial 011, then the country code (52) in Mexico which is then followed by the local area code and telephone number.

    Can we bring laptops / iPads?
    Feel free to bring them with you as all of the hotels have complimentary WiFi available. However, we advise that you refrain from doing work on your pilgrimage as much as possible, as your days will be very busy and you will need your sleep at night. We hope you take advantage of the opportunity to disconnect and focus on growing in your faith.

  • Useful Links

    Useful travel links:

    Airline Tracker: www.flightarrivals.com
    Currency Converter: www.xe.com
    Department of Homeland Security: www.dhs.gov
    Embassies: www.usembassy.gov
    International Health Information: www.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list
    Language Translation: translate.google.com
    Physical Disabilities Information: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/traveling-with-disabilties.html
    Smart Traveler Enrollment Program: step.state.gov/step
    Time Around the World: www.time.gov
    Transportation Security Administration: www.tsa.gov
    Trusted Traveler www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs
    US Customs: cbp.gov
    US State Department Travel Warnings: www.travel.state.gov