One of the world's largest and most populated metropolises (20 million people live here), Mexico City is a fabulously colourful place, with an ever-present spirit of bright vitality. Steeped in both historical mystique and modern vibrancy, the city offers world-renowned museums and historical sites, markets teeming with all manner of goods, and a myriad of activities and sites that guarantee a memorable visit (www.travelersguidetomexico.com).

Getting There
Flights from the Asian region to Mexico City include a stopover or two, with the locations dependent on which airline is chosen. One option is through various cities in North America: via Toronto, Vancouver (from Tokyo), Los Angeles or San Francisco. You can also fly direct from various destinations in Europe - from London, Madrid, Paris and Frankfurt. Please check with your local travel agent for airline details.

Weather
It's chilly in January and February, with an average temperature of 17^oC. At night, the temperature can drop to 7^oC, so pack appropriately. It gets warmer in March - about 20^oC - meaning spring is coming.

Transportation/Getting Around
The size of Mexico City may be daunting, but surprisingly efficient public transportation is available: taxi, Metro, bus, and trolley bus.

With more than a quarter of a million of them registered in Mexico City, taxis are a great way to get around (just remember to avoid rush hours). Prices start at a fixed rate of 6 pesos and increase by 0.7 pesos every 45 seconds or half-kilometre. Note that fares may be about 20% higher around 11pm-6am. Four major taxi companies exist, offering 24-hour service: Servitaxis (52-71-91-46), Super Sitio 160 (55-95-60-03), Sitio 210 (55-95-60-03), and Sitio 252 (55-16-60-20).

The Metro, the city's subway system, is fast and easy. Available 6am-midnight, it's a wise way to get around the city - especially at rush hour. Tickets are two pesos per trip. Be warned: the metro will more often than not be crushingly crowded.

Buses travel throughout most of the city, with regularity being better at major avenues. Keep your wits about you - buses make very quick stops, so missing a stop is a very real occurrence if you aren't paying attention. Two bus sizes exist - normal buses and smaller buses (often called peseros). Normal buses charge 3.50 pesos for trips under six kilometres and 4.50 pesos for trips exceeding that distance. Peseros cost less (2 and 3 pesos for those distances respectively), but are much less comfortable due to their smaller size and the crowding that occurs. Note that buses don't give out change, so have the exact fare ready.

There are a few trolley bus routes in the city. With a flat fare of 2 pesos, these are less crowded and a more comfortable alternative to other modes of transportation. Like normal buses, change is not given.

Important Numbers

Local Language
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