Notes for Visitors to Mexico City
Prepared by the International Affairs Office
Updated on July 9th, 2012
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Contents
About Mexico ....................................................................................................................3
About Mexico City ............................................................................................................ 4
Culture, Sports and Entertainment ....................................................................................6
Architecture in Mexico City ................................................................................................9
Archeology in Mexico City ...............................................................................................10
Traditions and Festivities in Mexico City .........................................................................11
Food ......................................................... ......................................................................12
Shopping in Mexico City..................................................................................................14
Currency ........................................................................................................................15
Drinking water .......................................................... ......................................................15
Electricity ........................................................................................................................16
Smoking ..........................................................................................................................16
Telephone calls ...............................................................................................................16
Time zone and Schedules...............................................................................................16
Weather.......................................................................................................................... 17
Health........... ..................................................................................................................17
Medical services..............................................................................................................18
Security ................................................ ..........................................................................18
Getting around the city ....................................................................................................18
Getting to the Hotel ..........................................................................................................23
Emergency numbers .................................. .....................................................................23
Useful Telephone Numbers .............................................................................................24
Foreign Embassies in Mexico City....................................................................................24
Useful Words and Phrases ......... ....................................................................................26
Contact ............................................................................................................................28
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About Mexico
Official name: Estados Unidos Mexicanos
Languages: Spanish (official), and 66 more Amerindian languages.
Currency: Peso (M $), 1 peso = 100 centavos
Its total population is: 112 '336, 538
Source: INEGI. Censo de Población y Vivienda, 2010.
• Distrito Federal
1. Aguascalientes
3. Baja California Sur
5.Chiapas
7.Coahuila de Zaragoza
9.Durango
11.Guerrero
13.Jalisco
15.Michoacán de Ocampo
17.Nayarit
19. Oaxaca
21.Querétaro
23. San Luis Potosí
25. Sonora
27.Tamaulipas
29.Veracruz
31. Zacatecas
2. Baja California
4.Campeche
6.Chihuahua
8.Colima
10.Guanajuato
12.Hidalgo
14.México
16.Morelos
18.Nuevo León
20.Puebla
22.Quintana Roo
24.Sinaloa
26.Tabasco
28.Tlaxcala
30.Yucatán
A. Estados Unidos
C. Belice
B. Guatemala
D. Honduras
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About Mexico City
Mexico City, historically known as the “City of Palaces”, stands over one of the most
important marshy regions of Prehispanic Mexico. Located at the center of the country
(99º09' longitude west, 19º24'' latitude north, GMT -6), the City is limited by mountains
within what is left of an ancient lake, at an approximate elevation of 2,300 meters above
sea level.
It was founded in 1525 by Spanish conquerors who, after defeating the mexica people,
built a new city on top of the ruins of Tenochtitlán, seat of the Aztec empire.
This place, home to a vast historical wealth, contains two zones which have been
established as Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO: the Historic Center or Downtown and
the Ecological Park in Xochimilco. The first offers a journey through different moments in
history, sharing the same space. At this central area of the city there are buildings
pertaining to the Colony, like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, also,
Prehispanic ruins like to Grand Temple and modern constructions like the Palace of Fine
Arts or the Latin American Tower, an important building raising 204 meters above the
ground (including its antenna).
On the other hand, the Ecological Park in Xochimilco is considered by many the “Mexican
Venice” due to its many Canals that one can visit on board a trajinera (typical water vehicle
pertaining to this place only). Xochimilco allows the visitor to learn how the inhabitants of
that city transported themselves during the Prehispanic era. Also, the manner in which
they grew their food on top of the chinampas (small portions of floating land) and the
commercial interchange that was part of their daily activities at that moment.
Much like a mosaic, each of the principal zones in Mexico City is host to a great cultural
syncretism. Within these zones archeological representations, buildings pertaining to the
viceroy epoch, modern constructions, cultural centers and parks share the same space.
Coyoacán is an old sector and to this day represents one of sixteen quarters in Mexico
City. It is a popular place for visitors, especially during the weekend, mainly because of its
original designs, squares and narrow streets that remain intact since the XVI century and
up to the XX century.
Another popular site to spend a lovely time is La Condesa, located at the southern part of
Avenida Chapultepec. Originally, this zone was the property of two Countesses during the
Colony. One can compare this place to Soho in New York or the Quartier Latin in Paris. La
Condesa is “the place to be”, it attracts young businessmen, students and artists.
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Its avenues are ample, adorned with palm trees and other botanical species, and although
it is a residential zone, it is full of restaurants, cafés, boutiques and galleries.
To the north of this huge city one meets with the Basilica de Guadalupe, the religious
catholic shrine representative of the Mexican culture, a place where the Virgin of
Guadalupe appeared before Juan Diego, near Tepeyac hill. This is a must stop for those
who wish to know more about local customs and traditions.
This city offers many options for those who love shopping, from exotic Bazars and
handcraft markets within Coyoacán and San Ángel to exclusive boutiques and malls
located in Santa Fe and Polanco.
Thanks to the fact that the city lies on top of a Central Highland, at an altitude of 2,240
meters above sea level, its inhabitants enjoy a constant temperate climate.
Mexico City joins the Estado de México to the North, East and West, and with Morelos
(State) along the South. As it is deeply based within the Historic and Geographic Center of
the country, its capital is connected by land to all its destinations. Besides being the
economic heart of the country, Mexico City is the Capital City of the Mexican Republic and
the seat of the Federal Powers of the Union.
The Population and Housing Census of 2010 reported, via de INEGI (Instituto Nacional de
Estadística y Geografía – National Institute of Statistics and Geography) a total of
112’448,538 inhabitants within the Mexican Republic, of which almost nine million live in
Mexico City, and about fifteen million in the Estado de México, which is considered a
formal part of the metropolitan zone called Distrito Federal, the Capital.
Mexico City is divided into 16 political entities.
As part of Mexico City’s cultural inheritance there is a wide variety of museums, cultural
edifices and galleries which offer different points of interest and show the great wealth of
past and present history. Well known to the world are great painters like Rufino Tamayo,
Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, Remedios Varo, José Alfaro Siqueiros,
among others.
Mexico City offers multiple commercial venues abundant in products and services for all
kinds of people. The visitor may find boutiques showing famous international designers
along the main street in Polanco or walk about the eclectic Tianguis del Chopo where
young punks, skatos or darks meet.
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Mexico City also offers exclusive Shopping Centers like Centro Santa Fe to the west,
Perisur, Galerías Coapa, Plaza Universidad or Centro Coyoacán.
Tourists will find typical crafts within the Ciudadela market, or places like San Juan,
Coyoacán, Zona Rosa (Pink Zone) or along Tamango street, in Peralvillo.
Total population – Mexico City: 8.851.080
Source: INEGI. Censo de Población y Vivienda, 2010.
Culture, Sports and Entertainment
Nowadays, shows and sporting events in Mexico City are extremely popular, which makes
this the ideal venue to enjoy different arts such as dance, music, opera, theater, and the
fine arts. Mexico City is considered one of the most important cultural, sporting and
entertainment centers of the world.
Its streets are home to theaters, auditoriums, stadiums, and forums, which form an
important cultural and sporting circuit. The most notable venues are the Auditorio
Nacional, the Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts), the Siqueiros Polyforum
Cultural, and the Teatro de la Ciudad (City Theater), as well as the cultural complex at the
Centro Nacional de las Artes. There is also the Foro Sol Stadium, which stages concerts
and sporting events.
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In terms of sports: soccer matches, baseball, wrestling, and other exciting events are held
in the Foro Sol, the Azteca Stadium, the Plaza de Toros bullring, and the Mexico and
Coliseo arenas for boxing and wrestling. Also, not to miss is a visit to the historic University
City Stadium.
MUSEO NACIONAL DE ANTROPOLOGÍA (Anthropology Museum)
Av. Paseo de la Reforma y Calz. Gandhi s/n.
Col. Chapultepec Polanco.
C.P. 11560 Delegación Miguel Hidalgo
Tel. 5553 6381/ 5553 6253
MUSEO NACIONAL DE HISTORIA CASTILLO DE CHAPULTEPEC (National Museum of
History Castle of Chapultepec)
Bosque de Chapultepec 1a Sección
Col. San Miguel Chapultepec
C.P. 11580 Delegación Miguel Hidalgo
Tel. 4040 5226 / 40405214
MUSEO CASA FRIDA KAHLO "CASA AZUL" (Frida Kahlo’s Blue House)
Londres 247
Col. Del Carmen
C.P. 04100 Delegación Coyoacán
Tel. 5554 5999 / 5659 7867
MUSEO DIEGO RIVERA "ANAHUACALLI"
Calle Del Museo 150
Col. San Pablo Tepetlapa
C.P. 04620 Delegación Coyoacán
Tel. 5553 3770 / 5617 3798
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MUSEO DE CERA (Wax Museum)
Londres 6
Col. Juárez
C.P. 06600 Delegación Cuauhtémoc
Tel. 5546 7670 / 5546 3784
MUSEO NACIONAL DE LA REVOLUCIÓN (National Museum of the Revolution)
Plaza de La República S/N
Col. Tabacalera
C.P. 06030 Delegación Cuauhtémoc
Tel. 566 1902
MUSEO DOLORES OLMEDO
Av. México 5843
Col. La Noria
C.P. 16030 Delegación Xochimilco
Tel. 5555 1221 / 5555 0891
MUSEO JOSÉ LUIS CUEVAS
Academia 13
Col. Centro Histórico
C.P. 06060 Delegación Cuauhtémoc
Tel. 5522 0156 Ext. 104
MUSEO NACIONAL DE ARTE "MUNAL"
Tacuba 8
Col. Centro Histórico
C.P. 06010 Delegación Cuauhtémoc
Tel. 5130 3400 Ext. 4010 / 5130 3460 Ext. 4010
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MUSEO DE ARTE MODERNO (Museum of Modern Art)
Paseo de la Reforma S/N
Col. Bosque de Chapultepec
C.P. 11580 Delegación Miguel Hidalgo
Tel. 5553 6233 / 5553 6211
PLAZA DE LAS ARTES CENTRO NACIONAL DE LAS ARTES
Av. Río Churubusco 79
Col. Country Club
C.P. 04220 Delegación Coyoacán
Tel. 1253 9400 Ext. 1047
SALA MIGUEL COVARRUBIAS CENTRO CULTURAL UNAM
Av. Insurgentes Sur 3000
Col. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
C.P. 04510 Delegación Coyoacán
Tel. 5665 0709 / 5622 7137
SALA SILVESTRE REVUELTAS
Periférico Sur 5141
Col. Isidro Fabela
C.P. 14030 Delegación Tlalpan
Tel. 5606 0016 / 5606 8558
Architecture in Mexico City
Architecture in Mexico City offers excellent examples of colonial and modern buildings that
show the wealth of its past and its modern present, giving it great historical, archeological,
and cultural value.
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To appreciate part of Mexico City's architecture, a visit to the Historic Center is a must;
here a variety of buildings adorn the streets with their impressive architecture. One is the
National Palace in the Zócalo or central plaza. Its construction began in 1522 as a second
private residence for Hernán Cortés and as part of the palace of Tlatoani Moctezuma
Xocoyotzin. It is currently one of the most representative constructions of Mexico's political
history.
The Metropolitan Cathedral is also located right in the heart of the city, built of gray stone
and dating from the sixteenth century. It is one of the great works of Mexican art and is
considered among the most outstanding of all Hispano-American architecture. It has five
naves and sixteen lateral chapels. It is a fusion of architectural styles and is erected on the
remains of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlán.
Another construction worthy of appreciation is the Mexican Mail Service Building, known
as the Palacio Postal. It is one of the most beautiful and elegant buildings, close to the
Palacio de Bellas Artes, another representative building that reflects
Mexico City’s
beautiful architecture.
Ciudad Universitaria (University City), declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is
another point of interest located south of the city, while towards the center, the emblematic
Paseo de la Reforma boulevard, and to the west the new growth zone of Santa Fe are
other areas of Mexico City that represent important architectural and historical epochs
here.
Archeology in Mexico City and surrounding areas
Archeological sites in Mexico City are the legacy of the early civilizations that populated it,
bestowing it with diverse cultural features.
In the downtown area, come face to face with Aztec culture at an archeological site where
one can admire the remains of what was the Templo Mayor (Great Temple) site. Some of
the most significant Aztec sculptures are found here, such as stone carvings of the
Coyolxauqui and Tlaltecuhtli gods, as well as the famous Piedra del Sol (Stone of the Sun
or the so-called Aztec Calendar). The excavation and restoration of archeology in Mexico
City is ongoing here.
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The Plaza de las Tres Culturas, in Tlatelolco, is another important archeological site where
several pre-Hispanic structures are sheltered by modern buildings. Observable here are
the different eras of Mexican archeological history: pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern.
A clear example of Mexico’s past within the present-day city are two more sites where the
visitor can find remains of the Aztec culture: an Aztec temple in the Cerro de la Estrella in
Iztapalapa and a circular pyramid with five altars in the archaeological site of Cuicuilco in
Tlalpan.
The archeological zone in Teotihuacán is located in the town of San Juan Teotihuacán, 50
kilometers north of Mexico City, in the Estado de Mexico. It represents an important
archeological site considered the first metropolis in America. It was built 100 years before
Christ and survived up to the year 150 A.D.
On March 21st generally known as the beginning of Spring, thousands of people meet here
in search of energy coming from the Sun. The size of this ancient city allows the presence
of hundreds of pilgrims from all corners of the country who wish to celebrate major rituals.
Teotihuacán, which means City of the Gods in náhuatl or the place where Gods are made,
is one of the most spectacular places in Mexico. It is there where the spiritual and material
knowledge of the mesoamerican peoples generated the expression of the highest
American civilization.
Note: Within this zone the visitor may enjoy one of the oldest dances of ancient times
honoring the Sun. Performances take place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Traditions and Festivities in Mexico City
This is a metropolis that enjoys great cultural and religious diversity, which is evident
throughout Mexican traditions and festivities. These festivals reflect the historic and
cultural values of its people.
Festivals celebrated here are very varied; however, the most representative are:
Candelmas, on February 2; Easter; the Independence ceremony in the Zócalo (central
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plaza) on September 15; All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day, on November 1 and 2, which
together comprise Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead); Christmas and New Year, on
December 24 and 31, respectively.
Going south the visitor finds Xochimilco, famous for its canals. This particular place
celebrates more than 50 special dates throughout the year, among which the most notable
are the Fiesta del Niñopa (the Child Jesus), to which miracles are attributed and the
traditional Flor Más Bella del Ejido (Most Beautiful Flower of the Community Lands), held
on Good Friday. These and other festive dates, with colored lights, music, Mexican
snacks, and traditional dresses, reflect the multicultural traditions and festivities in Mexico
City.
Most schools, banks and certain government offices do not work on Festive days or
Celebration days, but the great majority of museums, restaurants, movie theaters,
amusement parks and other attractions remain open and usually in special hours.
Mexico City has always received all visitors with open arms, as she herself represents
millions of human beings who decided to turn her into their home.
Food
The aromas and flavors that identify Mexican traditional food are born from a wide variety
of gastronomic influences that are combined with original ingredients to offer visitors’
palates an infinity of traditional dishes, including pre-Hispanic cuisine, from different parts
of the country.
Be sure to sample tacos, quesadillas with handmade tortillas, or traditional tortas in any of
the numerous restaurants. Generally, corn, chili, squash, nopal cactus (prickly-pear),
tomato, avocado, among other ingredients, are used in pre- Hispanic cookery, which when
combined, create mouth-watering delicacies.
Without a doubt, Mexico City is a multicultural and cosmopolitan place. On its streets you
will find countless top-level international restaurants that offer the highest quality dishes to
satisfy the most sophisticated client.
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Sweet or savory, this city’s cuisine always offers a touch of tradition to seduce the palate
with its amazing flavors and variety, easily confirmed at any of its markets, diners, or
restaurants.
It is quite common that travelers decide to try different typical dishes, for example:
Barbacoa
Lamb meat, vapor-cooked in hot pits excavated inside the earth. It is served with tortillas
and different hot sauces, accompanied by the inseparable broth that resulted from the
juices during the long cooking.
Quesadillas
Corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, vegetables, chicken or beef meat. The most popular
ones are cheese and flower quesadillas and huitlacoche (black mushroom that appears in
some corn cobs)
Tacos
There is a huge variety of tacos. One can eat them in particular hours and in different parts
of the city. During the morning hours clients buy (from street vendors) the traditional
Tacos de Canasta (basket tacos) made with small tortillas filled with beans, potatoes or
meat. Later In the day, one may find vendors offering tacos de suadero or carnitas. The
first ones are small tortillas filled with fried beef meat, the latter use larger tortillas filled
with fried pork meat.
But there are other kinds of tacos and these are the home made ones, with a variation of
fillings and the most enjoyable are those with a personal selection of ingredients. On the
dining table, whether this goes on at home or at a restaurant, the person enjoy dishes with
guacamole (mashed avocado mixed with chopped coriander and onions, bits of fresh hot
peppers and tomatoes), lettuce, cheese, different meats cooked in hot sauces or as
barbecue, chicharrón (crackling pig skin) and beans. Each tortilla is filled with the amount
of food the person thinks they can eat with ease and then it is rolled to form the famous
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taco. This goes on in almost every home and in hundreds of small restaurants in Mexico.
Even more imposing restaurants will serve a special selection of tacos.
Tamales
These are served traditionally for breakfast or dinner and are consumed in most Latin
American countries, where locals use different ingredients besides the basic corn batter.
Tamales in Mexico City are made with corn flour, to which the cook may add green hot
pepper or mole sauce with chicken or pork meat, but they can also carry a sweet
ingredient (for tamales dulces); the whole preparation goes inside corn leaves and then
placed in large pots for vapor cooking. This exquisite produce of many native peoples is
accompanied with atole, a hot sweet beverage made with grind corn or rice.
Tortas
These use white rolls filled with cold meats, cheese, egg, chicken or beef meat. Usually, a
piece of bread called telera is cut in half (like a sándwich) and is topped with avocado,
shredded lettuce, hot peppers and cream. Each individual’s imagination is the limit to the
many combinations anyone can come up with when preparing a delicious torta.
Pan de Dulce (Sweet rolls)
Stepping inside a panadería (baker’s shop) in Distrito Federal is quite an experience and a
huge temptation. There are countless options carrying names like conchas, orejas,
cuernitos, churros or slices of cake. The amazing variety of creations has been kept from
the times of the Colony and the Viceroys.
Shopping in Mexico City
Stores here offer an extensive range of options for different types of shopping in Mexico
City, from small accessories to high-end jewelry, all available at numerous plazas,
boutiques, and shops.
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Another option is to visit one of the department stores in top-level shopping malls in
Mexico City, from the north to the south of the city, particularly in the Polanco, Santa Fe,
Tlalpan, and Coyoacán areas.
In addition, the street markets in Mexico City (known as tianguis) in the different areas of
the city can be interesting alternatives if you're searching for clothing, footwear, sporting
apparel, and electronic goods.
Districts such as the Roma, Condesa, the Historic Center, and the Zona Rosa are also
areas where one can spend a full day shopping in their commercial hotspots.
Currency
1 MXN
= 0.0718391 USD
1 USD
= 13.9200 MXN
The official currency is the Peso Mexicano. Daily quotes change as the peso shifts,
nonetheless, the average is 15 pesos to one dollar. Bill nominations use 20, 50,100, 200,
500 and 1000 pesos. Coins come in one peso, two pesos, five pesos, ten pesos, twenty
and fifty pesos, and 10, 20 and 50 cents.
It is suggested to change money at the airport or in one of the many Money Exchange
locations in the city.
Drinking water
It is best to boil tap water first before you drink it. Some people prefer to drink bottled
water. A large variety of imported drinking water (mineral and others) can be found in
super markets.
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Electricity
Electric outlets and sockets in Mexico are the well known “American” connections. Any
electric equipment you bring with you must have a different switch or adapting device.
Electric system is mostly 110 volts – 60Htz (alternate current) in case you need to use a
current convertor.
Smoking
UAM is a smoke-free campus. Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places as well as
outdoor public spaces such as beaches, swimming pools, escalators, bus-stops and
reserved parks in Mexico City. A fixed penalty ranging from 10 to 30 times the daily basic
salary, in other words, from $623.00 (42 Dls) to $1,870.00 pesos ($125 Dls) applies for
related offences.
Telephone calls
There is a wide network of public telephones installed by diverse telephone companies.
Most of them operate with pre-paid cards that one can purchase in newspaper stands,
stores and markets at prices that range from $30.00 to $200 pesos. With these cards the
person may make local, national and international calls, as well as calls to cell phones. For
international calls dial 00 + country´s code + city code + local number. For national calls
dial 01 + city code + local number.
Mexico, the country, carries the number 52 and Mexico City’s telephone code is 55. If you
want to call from one of the interior cities to Mexico City you have to dial 01 + 55 + local
number. If the person is calling from another country please dial +52 + 55 + local number.
Time Zone and Schedules
Time usages correspond to GMT -6 which is modified during summer. All activities in
Mexico City generally start a 5am and continue until 12pm
Most shopping centers and services are open from 9am to 8pm, Mondays thru Sundays.
Banks have shorter hours: from 9am to 4pm Mondays thru Fridays and there is a wide
network of automatic cashiers ATM.
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Most museums and sites of interest work from 9am to 5pm, Tuesdays through Sundays
(many of them have free Access on Sundays). City transportation services operate from
5am to 12pm, both buses and subway trains.
Weather
Moderate in winter, hot and dry during the months of April and May. Rainy season starts in
May and ends in October, approximately, with sunny mornings and showers in the
afternoon. Early mornings and evenings may be cold, especially in winter. Average
temperature is 16°C.
Climate: temperate semi humid
Temperature: 61 ° F / 16 ° C yearly average
Location: Central part of México
Area: 1 485 km²
You may check the climate at: http://smn.cna.gob.mx
Health
Stomach ailments are most frequent among travelers to Mexico. The following
recommendations may help you to avoid this problem. Do not drink water from faucets;
instead drink bottled or purified water.
Be prudent with the food and avoid excesses, especially during the first days after your
arrival. Let your body accustom itself to Mexican gastronomy.
Pay attention to the place you choose to go to eat your food. Avoid places that do not
comply with hygiene recommendations.
Mexico City is located at 2,500 meters above sea level and this condition may cause
certain individuals to suffer from dizziness, nausea, headaches and a certain agitation
when walking. These symptoms are temporary and will disappear after a brief settling
period.
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Pollution may cause eye, nose, throat irritation as well as fatigue and nervousness.
Contamination levels increase during the hot season; avoid going out during traffic hours.
Medical Services
Mexico offers a wide network of hospitals, public and private clinics. Emergency services
in all hospitals and clinics are open 24 hours a day.
If you have medical insurance please verify that your card or papers are recognized in all
hospitals in this country. Cost for a doctor’s appointment in a clinic or private office is
between $400 and $700 pesos ($55 American dollars or 31 euros approximately).
Expenses increase if the person needs tests or meds.
Security
Living in Mexico represents a unique and gratifying experience due to the warm attitude
expressed by its people. Nevertheless, one must take certain precautions.
Do not take your sight off your luggage at the airport. Do not accept packages or special
requests from strangers.
Do not carry original documents (passport, and so on) unless it is necessary or you are
going to apply for an official procedure. In any case, you may carry with you a copy of your
passport or visa.
Avoid wearing costly jewelry and wristwatches during city tours. Keep an eye on your
cameras (photo and video) and cell phone.
Do not carry too much money. In other words, do not openly show bills in well populated
zones or places that seem insecure.
Do not use big handbags that could be easily snapped.
Try to go out in the company of another person (persons) and if you are traveling alone, try
to keep yourself in safe zones. At nights, avoid solitary streets which are poorly
illuminated.
Getting around the city
Mexico City is a very well connected city and public transportation is widely available at
very reasonable costs. It is very efficient although traffic jams are common, especially
during peak hours.
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Buses
RTP bus. This vehicle starts its circuit within the most important subway stations joining
several lines of this network or leaving them towards other meeting points in the city. Fee
is $3.50 covering 12km - $4.50 if the person is traveling more than 12km. RTP Bus
network
http://www.rtp.gob.mx/red_rutas.html
Trolebús
This service network has 15 bus lines (Trolebuses) covering a distance of 453.85km. The
vehicle fleet has 405 buses which operate at a 5 minute interval, within the Distrito
Federal. This mode of transportation does not pollute as it uses an electric cable; it is fast
and comfortable. It runs through some of the main avenues. Fee: $2.00 pesos per ticket.
Time schedule: Mondays through Fridays from 5:00am to 23:00hrs. Saturdays: 5am
through 23hrs and Sundays from 5.30am to 23.00hrs.
Mexico City Electric Transportation (Servicio de Trasportes Eléctricos del Distrito Federal)
http://www.ste.df.gob.mx/servicios/lineas.html
Taxi
Taxis operate in every street and zone in the city, nevertheless, sometimes one must go
near a busy avenue in order to find one. This is a comfortable but expensive mode of
transportation. Preferably, one should use radio taxis which may be more expensive but
are safer.
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Fees:
Two door taxi: $5.80 initial cost + $0.78 added every 250 meters or 45 seconds.
Four door taxi: $ 6.40 initial cost + $0.78 added every 250 meters or 45 seconds.
Radio taxi: $9.60 initial cost + $ 0.96 added every 250 meters or 45 seconds.
Airports offer taxi services with a special fee which includes distances. We recommend
this option when you arrive.
Microbús, Micro o pesero
This transportation service operates via small bus networks with a capacity for 24 people
approximately. They run through practically all medium and big avenues and represent a
very comfortable option as they stop any place the user selects. They are very useful as a
complement to the subway lines as they start their rounds outside subway stations. They
are not too comfortable as they usually are full of people and drivers are not too careful.
Most vehicles are old but are being replaced by new and more comfortable units.
Fee: $2.50 pesos up to 5 kilometers.
$3.00 pesos from 5 to 12 kilometers.
$4.00 pesos from 12 kilometers on
This fee is increased by 20% between midnight and 6:00 am
The moment you board the microbús you must advice the driver of your destiny and he will
give you the fee in case you have no idea of the distance.
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Metro (Sistema de Transporte Metro) (Subway)
This is, without a doubt, the city’s most important transportation system. It moves over
eight million people each day, including its 11 lines. This transportation system operates all
year round. Also, it is the quickest and cheapest transportation means while offering the
longest distances.
Fee: $3.00 pesos per ticket (which includes line shifting)
Time schedule: Monday through Friday from 5:00am until midnight.
Saturdays 6:00am until midnight.
Sundays and Festivities 7:00am until midnight.
Subway lines map
http://ciudadmexico.com.mx/mapas/metro.htm
Tren Ligero (Swift train)
This train is included in the net of Electric Transportation in Distrito Federal and it operates
along the southern part of the city, with its unique non contaminating vehicles, servicing
inhabitants along de political entities called Delegaciones, and these include Coyoacán,
Tlalpan and Xochimilco. Their rounds cover 16 stations and 2 terminals, using 16 double
trains joined by a double cabin with a capacity to carry 374 passengers by unit. This
network joins the subway at Taxqueña Blue Line Station. This system is ideal when one
wishes to go to Xochimilco and enjoy all its attractions. Fee: $2.00 pesos per ticket
Map of the Swift Train network
http://www.ste.df.gob.mx/servicios/trenligero.html
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Metrobús
This is the most recent transportation system in Mexico City. It includes articulated buses
that run through an exclusive lane. It is one of the fastest transportation media, and it is
generally full. There are only four lines which run through different routes.
Fee: $5.00 pesos per run. The user may purchase a prepaid card worth $8.00 pesos and
add the necessary amount for each trip.
Time Schedule: Mondays through Fridays from 4:30AM until midnight.
Saturdays and Sundays from 5:00am until midnight
Metrobús Map
http://www.metrobus.df.gob.mx/
Turibús
This transportation system allows the visitor to have a general view of the main points of
interest in our city. The vehicles have two levels and the upper part is open for a better
view. Guides speak several languages. At present there are two runs, the first one goes
from Downtown (Historic Center) then crosses Reforma Avenue, and the southern tour
which traverses Insurgentes Avenue, Colonia del Valle, Coyoacán, San Angel, Tlalpan
and University City.
Fee: $120 pesos (Ticket is good for any of the two tours and includes one day with as
many stops as the visitor wishes to take and guides who speak several languages).
Visit the official website: http://www.turibus.com.mx
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Getting to your Hotel from the Airport
We recommend the use of authorized taxis. This service offers comfort and safety the
moment you leave the airport with a destiny to any of the many hotels in the city. These
are the only authorized taxis acknowledged by the Ministry of Communications and
Transportation (Secretaría de Comunicaciones y Transportes -.SCT) of the federal
government.
They operate 24 hours all year round, both, at Terminal 1 and 2 with two service
modalities: Ordinary, in a sedan motor car carrying four passengers, besides the
driver...Executive, in larger vehicles (van) for 8 passengers, besides the driver.
In service, there are groups like Porto Taxi, Nueva Imagen, Sitio 300 and Yellow Cab. The
firm Confort only operates at terminal 2. Boarding zones at terminal 1 are located in doors
1 through 10; in terminal 2 boarding zones are located between doors 3 and 4.
Their fees are registered at the MInistry of Communications and Transportation (SCT)
offices, and have a traveler’s insurance, also an insurance called civil responsibility and
medical expenses for all passengers. In order to use these services the visitor must
purchase the corresponding ticket at the authorized locations within the airport.
Fee from airport to Hotel Meliá. (Col. Tabacalera, Delegación Cuauhtémoc, Zona 4),
$152.00 (sedan) $240.00 (van), approximately.
Emergency Numbers
Área
Telephone
Firemen, ambulances and police radio cars
060
Red Cross
5557-5757
Judicial Police
5625-8646
Federal Police
5625-8646
Rescue squad assisting tourists
5558-5100 and 5250-5100
LOCATEL (general directory for emergencies)
5658-1111
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Useful Telephone Numbers
Área
Telephone
National Operator
020
International Operator
090
LADA Long distance – National
01
LADA Long distance – person to person
02
LADA – worldwide person to person
090
LADA International U. S. and Canada, person to 09+1
person
Wake up services
031
Exact hour
030
LADA International U. S. and Canada
00+1
WORLD LADA
00
Foreign Embassies in Mexico
ALEMANIA
TEL.5283-2200 /5281-2588
HORACIO No. 1506
COLONIA POLANCO
DELEGACION MIGUEL HIDALGO
C.P. 11530
ZONA PONIENTE
ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA
TEL.5080-2000 / 5080-2150
PASEO DE LA REFORMA No. 305
COLONIA CUAUHTEMOC
DELEGACION CUAUHTEMOC
C.P. 6500
ZONA CENTRO
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INDIA
TEL.5531-0850 / 5531-1050/1002
MUSSET No. 325
COLONIA POLANCO
DELEGACION MIGUEL HIDALGO
C.P. 11550
ZONA PONIENTE
CHINA
TEL.5616-0609 / 5550-0823
AV. SAN JERONIMO No. 217 B
COLONIA LA OTRA BANDA
DELEGACION ALVARO OBREGON
C.P. 1090
ZONA PONIENTE
REINO UNIDO DE LA GRAN BRETAÑA E IRLANDA DEL NORTE
TEL.5207-2089
5242-8500
RIO LERMA No. 71
COLONIA CUAUHTEMOC
DELEGACION CUAUHTEMOC
C.P. 6500
ZONA CENTRO
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FEDERACION DE RUSIA
TEL.5273-1305
5516-0870
JOSE VASCONCELOS No. 204
COLONIA HIPODROMO CONDESA
DELEGACION CUAUHTEMOC
C.P. 6140
ZONA CENTRO
BRASIL
TEL.5201-4531 / 5520-4929/ 6480
LOPE DE ARMENDARIZ No. 130
COLONIA LOMAS VIRREYES
DELEGACION MIGUEL HIDALGO
C.P. 11000
ZONA PONIENTE
Useful Words and Phrases
Below are some handy words and phrases in Spanish which you might find useful.
(Information: Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana UAM - Rectoría General de la UAM)
Time related:
Today
Hoy
Yesterday
Ayer
Tomorrow
Mañana
When
Cuándo
Now
Ahora
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Greetings
How are you?
¿Cómo estás?
Thank You
Gracias
Sorry
Lo siento, disculpe, perdón
Good Morning
Buenos días
Bye-Bye
Adiós, hasta luego
Good night
Buenas noches
See you later
Hasta luego
Directions and Travel
Where
Dónde
Turn right
Gire a la derecha
Turn left
Gire a la izquierda
Go straight
Siga derecho
Bus
Autobús
Mini-bus
Micro bus
Taxi
Taxi
Subway
Metro
Train
Tren ligero
Can you take me to…? ¿Puede llevarme a…?
Eating Out
Fork
tenedor
Spoon
cuchara
Knife
cuchillo
Napkin
servilleta
A table for (two), please
mesa para (dos) personas, por favor
Where is the bathroom?
¿Dónde está el baño?
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Others
Yes
Sí
No
no
What?
¿Qué?
Go to work / Off work
ir a trabajar / salir de trabajar
No problem
no hay problema
Contact
Ms. Angélica Careaga Mercadillo
Address: International Affairs Office
Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana
Telephone: 52 (55) 54834000 ext. 1905 y 1936
Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
Website: www.uam.mx
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 19:00 hours
Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays: Closed
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