Why Gusto México?
Only with Gusto México will you receive an immersive travel experience based on local knowledge and years of experience in the travel and tourism industry. We not only love Mexico, but we live and work in the country, so we know all the secret hot spots, authentic restaurants, and best places to indulge each of your five senses and get a feel for the Mexican spice for life.
We know that each one of our guests is unique, so we provide ample amount of time to wander off and explore on your own. Although each guest is welcome to join us on the group activities, we can also create tailor-made recommendations in all cities that we specialize in. Whether you want to explore the most luxurious spots or walk on a white sandy beach and see no one for miles, Gusto México can provide you with a completely personalized Mexican vacation.
Each Gusto México experience is handcrafted from the ground up to offer you vibrant cultural experiences like no other. Everything from exploring local culture, trying incredible food and meeting fun like-minded people from around the world is offered. Furthermore, the adventure always takes place in beautiful hand-picked destinations throughout all of Mexico.
Although a younger company, Gusto México has over 6-years of experience working in international travel and specializing in South and Central America. In addition to the more popular destinations such as Tulum, Sayulita, Mexico City, and San Miguel de Allende, we include Mexico’s lesser-visited destinations such as Isla Holbox, Todos Santos, the Valle de Guadalupe, and Oaxaca. We take great pride in sharing the authentic travel experiences we have gathered in Mexico.
Gusto México is also committed to environmentally responsible travel, promoting conservation and low visitor impact. We demonstrate that travel can promote an understanding amongst all travelers the importance of leaving a small carbon footprint.
Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
Yes! Mexico is a popular tourist destination and has been for a long time. Most travelers do not run into any trouble. There are, however, areas that experience high levels of violent crime as a result of lawlessness and drug trafficking. That said, Gusto México would never take you anywhere unless we were convinced it was safe!
Do I need a visa?
All tourists traveling to Mexico need a permit, but not all need a visa. If you are visiting from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, you do not need a visa and can obtain a tourism permit upon arrival.
Can I drink the water?
We do not recommend drinking the tap water in Mexico. Also for environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and bring a reusable water bottle or canteen for filtered water instead. We will show you at each location where you can get filtered water! It’s also advisable to wash and peel any fruits and vegetables before eating them.
Do I need to bring foreign currency? Are credit cards accepted?
It is highly recommended to bring pesos with you to use at local restaurants, markets or souvenir shops, for gratuity, etc. At all accommodations, they accept cash and credit cards. Our best recommendation is to exchange money at your local bank, which will take a couple of weeks, but they will give you the best exchange rate. You can also do this at the airport. It is always better to travel with local currency just in case! And remember, all the places with real character and the best local food tend to be cash only!
Is it custom to tip?
Many service workers earn low wages and rely on tips to make a decent living. We recommend tipping 15-20% at restaurants and for any guides, and a few dollars per day for housekeepers, people you buy from in the street or who are selling artisans, and hotel bartenders and employees.
What airport do I fly into?
Each experience will be located just a short drive away from a major international airport. The majority of them will be serviced by a number of international airlines including American, Continental, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Aeromexico, Southwest and United, just to name a few. Please be aware that roundtrip transportation to and from the hotel is included in your package. Upon arrival, your shuttle or vehicle will be waiting for you with your name and hotel info.
Do I need travel insurance?
This is completely up to you, but we always recommend YES. Whether due to medical reasons, extreme weather, local events, etc. travel insurance can be a financial blessing and life saver. Even if you don't think it makes sense to buy travel insurance for your trip, we recommend familiarizing yourself with policies and with your credit card travel benefits. Travelex, Travel Guard, and HeyMondo are good companies to consider and get quotes from. If you purchase travel insurance, you should consider include “cancel for any reason” with your policy, as well as medical coverage. This can be particularly helpful if a positive Covid test result* is acquired while abroad.
What should I bring?
Comfortable, light clothes for warm weather, yoga and day activities. Dresses and shorts are a must in the heat!
Comfortable shoes or sandals, as well as shoes you don’t mind getting dirty and exploring in!
Bathing suit!
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, anything you can think of to cover and protect yourself from the sun!
There is purified bottled water at all accommodations, but it’s best to bring your own canteen to reduce plastic!
Bug spray or repellent!
Passport, travel documents, tickets, etc. Make copies of them and email them to yourself in case they are lost or stolen. Leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home. Make sure that your passport is valid for at least 3 months after your planned travel and that you have at least one blank page available!
Travel insurance!
