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Entry Requirements
* As of October 1, 2007, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens,
traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico,
Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be
required to present a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or U.S.
Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration
Card, Form I-551, if applicable.
* As early as January 1, 2008, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens,
traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South
America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea, may be required
to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by
the Department of Homeland Security. While recent legislative
changes permit a later deadline, the Departments of State and
Homeland Security are working to meet all requirements as soon
as possible. Ample advance notice will be provided to enable the
public to obtain passports or passport cards for land/sea entries.
Please be sure the name you give to our Reservations Specialists
matches your Driver's License and your Passport. Married women
with a different last name should carry a marriage license or
a notarized affidavit with their married name.
Money
Banks & ATMs
Banks in Mexico are rapidly expanding and improving services.
They tend to be open weekdays from 9am until 5pm, and often for
at least a half day on Saturday. In larger resorts and cities,
they can generally accommodate the exchange of dollars (which
used to stop at noon) anytime during business hours. During times
when the currency is in flux, a particular bank may not exchange
dollars, so check before standing in line. Some, but not all,
banks charge a service fee of about 1% to exchange traveler's
checks. However, you can pay for most purchases directly with
traveler's checks at the establishment's stated exchange rate.
Don't even bother with personal checks drawn on a U.S. bank --
the bank will wait for your check to clear, which can take weeks,
before giving you your money.
Travelers to Mexico can easily withdraw money from ATMs (automated
teller machine) in most major cities and resort areas. In most
resorts in Mexico, the use of ATMs is perfectly safe -- just use
the same precautions you would at any ATM. Universal bank cards
(such as the Cirrus and PLUS systems) can be used. This is a convenient
way to withdraw money and avoid carrying too much with you at
any time. The exchange rate is generally more favorable than that
at a casas de cambio. Most machines offer Spanish/English menus
and dispense pesos, but some offer the option of withdrawing dollars.
The Cirrus (tel. 800/424-7787) and PLUS (tel. 800/843-7587) networks
span the globe; look at the back of your bank card to see which
network you're on, then call or check online for ATM locations
at your destination. Be sure you know your personal identification
number (PIN) before you leave home and be sure to find out your
daily withdrawal limit before you depart. Also keep in mind that
many banks impose a fee every time a card is used at a different
bank's ATM, and that fee can be higher for international transactions
(up to $5 or more) than for domestic ones (where they're rarely
more than $1.50). On top of this, the bank from which you withdraw
cash may charge its own fee.
Traveler's Checks
Traveler's checks are something of an anachronism from
the days before the ATM made cash accessible at any time. Traveler's
checks used to be the only sound alternative to traveling with
dangerously large amounts of cash. They were as reliable as currency,
but, unlike cash, could be replaced if lost or stolen.
You can get traveler's checks at almost any bank. You can also
get American Express traveler's checks over the phone by calling
tel. 800/221-7282.
Visa offers traveler's checks at Citibank locations nationwide,
as well as at several other banks. Call tel. 800/732-1322 for
information. AAA members can obtain Visa checks without a fee
at most AAA offices or by calling tel. 866/339-3378. MasterCard
also offers traveler's checks. Call tel. 800/223-9920 for a location
near you.
If you choose to carry traveler's checks, be sure to keep a record
of their serial numbers separate from your checks in the event
that they are stolen or lost. You'll get a refund faster if you
know the numbers.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are a safe way to carry money: They also provide
a convenient record of all your expenses, and they generally offer
relatively good exchange rates. You can also withdraw cash advances
from your credit cards at banks or ATMs, provided you know your
PIN. If you've forgotten yours, or didn't even know you had one,
call the number on the back of your credit card and ask the bank
to send it to you. It usually takes 5 to 7 business days, though
some banks will provide the number over the phone if you tell
them your mother's maiden name or some other personal information.
Charges will be made in pesos, then converted into dollars by
the bank issuing the credit card. Generally you receive the favorable
bank rate when paying by credit card. However, be aware that some
establishments in Mexico add a 5% to 7% surcharge when you pay
with a credit card. This is especially true when using American
Express. Many times, advertised discounts will not apply if you
pay with a credit card.
Dear Visa: I'm Off to Monterrey! -- Some credit card companies
recommend that you notify them of any impending trip abroad so
that they don't become suspicious and block your charges when
the card is used numerous times in a foreign destination. Even
if you don't call your credit card company in advance, you can
always call the toll-free emergency number if a charge is refused
-- a good reason to carry the phone number with you. But perhaps
the most important lesson is to carry more than one card on your
trip; if one card doesn't work for any number of reasons, you'll
have a backup.
Emergency
Emergencies
(Police, Ambulance, Fire)
Emergencias
060
Information
Informacion
040
Rescue and Medical Emergencies Squad
Escuadron de Rescates y Urgencias Medicas (ERUM)
(52) 5722-8805
Tourist Safety
Infotur Seguridad Turística
(52) 5250-0123, 01-800-5903-9200
Fun Things To Do in Monterrey
Attractions & Activities
Monterrey Attractions
Macro Plaza - The City's Center
Macro Plaza, or Gran Plaza, is definitely the centerpiece attraction
in Monterrey. The Faro de Comercio, or Tower of Commerce, dominates
the landscape of the Macro Plaza, and is the highest monument
in México. Most nights a beam of red laser light circles
the city from atop the tower, making for some interesting effects
when it scans the nearby mountains. The tower is a great starting
point for a leisurely stroll through the heart of Monterrey. The
plaza is long (6 blocks) and narrow (1block) and is almost as
big in total area as the Zocalo in México City. The plaza
is really a series of smaller plazas joined together to form a
pedestrian plaza with fountains, parks, benches, shade trees,
the city theatre and bandstands.
In close proximity to the plaza are, numerous museums, the city's
beautiful cathedral, Paseo Santa Lucia and Barrio Antiguo. You
could easily spend a couple of full days enjoying the contents
of the city's museums. Paseo Santa Lucia, adjacent to the Museum
of Mexican History, is a pleasant diversion from the bustling
city, with a walkway along a canal; sidewalk cafes and you may
be lucky enough catch some entertainment, be it planned or impromptu.
The Paseo is an especially pleasant spot to visit in the evenings
when the quiet atmosphere and unique lighting make for a very
pleasant experience.
The state tourism office is located nearby at at 5 de Mayo 525
Ote., in the Elizando Páez Building, they have a good variety
of maps and brochures, describing the city's many attractions.
All booklets and maps are dispensed free of charge by a friendly
bilingual staff.
A unique way to see the Macro Plaza, Barrio Antiguo and the downtown
area, which is also known as Zona Rosa, is to hire a horse drawn
carriage. These unique carriages and can be hired in several locations
downtown, ask about these tours at your hotel. Trolley tours are
also an easy way to get acquainted with the heart of Monterrey.
The replicas of old fashion trolleys operate every half hour or
so and you can catch the trolley in front of the Howard Johnson
Hotel or in front of the MARCO museum. Allow at least a few hours
for exploring Macro Plaza, Barrio Antiguo and the city center.
Barrio Antiguo
A must on any visitors list of things to do in Monterrey should
include at least a couple of visits to Barrio Antiguo, or old
town. If possible, visit during daylight hours to admire the colonial
architecture that was prevalent in Monterrey around the turn of
the century Here you can get a real feeling of what is was like
to live in the times of old Monterrey. You can also get a taste
of Monterrey's numerous culinary delights, as some of the towns
finer eateries, quaint cafes and night spots are located in Barrio
Antiguo.
Visit again at night, as this area is also "The Place"
when it comes Monterrey's nightlife and can even become downright
crowded on weekends, when the local police put much of the Barrio
off limits to vehicular traffic. This arrangement makes it easy
to enjoy the area at your own pace and also gives you the added
comfort of knowing that this area is a fairly safe place to be.
San Pedro Garza Garcia
Garza Garcia is a separate city, but indeed a very important part
of Monterrey. This affluent suburb is home to the offices of many
of the areas most important businesses. It is also the location
of some of México's finest and most well kept residential
neighborhoods. Wide streets with landscaped center medians add
to the overall attractiveness of Garcia Garza. The city can boast
of being México's safest city, with a modern, high tech,
police force and city government, which are deeply committed to
keeping the city's reputation in place. Modern malls and shopping
centers along with some of the areas finer hotels and eating establishments
choose to call Garza Garcia home.
Also located in Garza Garcia is Planetario Alfa, a high tech
complex featuring an observatory, a science garden, prehispanic
garden, open aviary and an IMAX dome theatre. Interactive displays
challenge the young an old alike, along with temporary exhibitions
that offer insights to art, science and technology. All of this
is presented in an ultra peaceful setting, with some pretty amazing
architecture that should make visiting Planetario Alfa a must
on any visit to Monterrey. A cafe and souvenir store are located
on the premises and free transportation to downtown is available.
Open Tuesday through Sunday.
Garza Garcia is also the gateway to Chipinque National Park.
Chipinque National Park
Just 20 minutes from downtown Monterey and about 10 minutes from
San Pedro Garza Garcia, this natural paradise seems very far removed
from any large city. Chipinque National Park is a favorite getaway
for nature lovers, hikers, climbers, bird watchers and mountain
bikers. It also attracts those who are just seeking a little peace
and quiet. The well kept hiking trails (over 15 km.) and picnic
grounds draw big crowds on weekends, especially in the summer
when the temperature is well below that of the city. The winding
paved road along with an abundance of dirt trails are huge attractions
for local bicyclists, especially mountain bikers.
There is a general store near the entrance where you can buy
picnic supplies, film, water and other necessities. There is also
a restaurant at the same location. At the end of the road you
come upon the beautiful Hotel Chipinque, a great getaway for couples
or business groups that want to be able to keep focus on a special
topic, without a lot of outside interference. Chipinque is a great
place for a relaxing picnic lunch if you arrive at midday. The
incredible solitude that this nature preserve offers the residents
and visitors to Monterrey is an enormous asset to the city.
La Estanzuela
It doesn't seem possible that La Estanzuela is just a short (20
minute) drive southeast of downtown Monterrey. La Estanzuela gives
you the feeling of being far away from any city, and high up in
the mountains. This nature area is devoted to walking in the peace
and quiet of a natural setting. Paved paths, on either side of
a natural stream offer visitors a chance to feel a different side
of Monterrey. The sounds of several small waterfalls and the running
stream add a yet another touch of tranquility to already this
peaceful area. Picnics are allowed and tables and trash receptacles
are installed. This is another peaceful diversion to the hustle
and bustle of the busy city, nearby. You can buy water, soft drinks
and snacks at the entrance.
Presa de La Boca
Approximately 45 minutes southeast of Monterrey is the small town
of Santiago and the Presa de la Boca reservoir. This man made
lake has become a popular water sports area and weekend retreat
for Monterey residents. The lake is large enough to play host
to boating and fishing enthusiasts along with large numbers of
jet skis. Along the shore are rustic resorts and restaurants where
visitors with children can relax over lunch and a cold beer while
the children enjoy the lake.
The town of Santiago has sprouted a large market place, on the
lake side of the highway, which sells everything from rustic furniture
to some of the hottest chili in México. If you are into
HOT make it a point to get some "Chili del Monte" at
one of the roadside stands selling citrus and honey and this local
product, chilies spiced with vinegar. There are several very interesting
nurseries selling exotic landscape ornaments along with a great
variety of plants. A new modern disco is also in the finishing
stages. There are several motels along the road and a larger hotel
on a hill overlooking the lake.
Cola de Caballo
Just a short distance up in the hills from the town of Santiago
you will find the beautiful Cola de Caballo waterfalls. The waterfall
got its name, which means horse tail, because the shape of the
waterfall resembles a real horse tail. You can walk to the falls
(almost a mile) from the entrance or you can rent a horse drawn
buggy or ride on horseback. You can get very close to the waterfalls,
close enough to get wet from the spray. This is a great place
to take pictures of the family, so don't forget your camera. There
are restaurants, snack bars and souvenir stands before you start
the easy trip to the falls. Picnic tables are spread out along
the river and near the falls.
A five star hotel, Hacienda Cola de Caballo, is located a short
distance before the waterfall and provides a beautiful view of
the forest below. The restaurant is said to be a great place to
have lunch or dinner, before driving back to the city. A bungee
jump is located on the hotel grounds. You jump directly into the
forest from a platform built out over a steep cliff adjacent to
the jumping area.
There are more waterfalls further along the road and a small
alpine type village just a short distance up the road. This is
a pristine area that is patrolled by rangers that manage to control
the crowds and keep the area clean. Ample parking is available
at the entrance.
Cola de Caballo: Entrance fee of approximately 35 pesos. Location
approximately 25 miles southeast of Monterrey city limits on the
Carretera Nacional, also called Carretera a Ciudad Victoria. Look
for the signs as you pass through the city of Santiago.
Grutas de Garcia
Just 45 minutes northwest of Monterrey, off the Satillo highway,
are the truly spectacular caverns of Grutas de Garcia. These caverns,
which were discovered in 1843, are more than 60 million years
old, although they don't look a day of 40 million. The system
of caves themselves are reached by way of an old cable car which
takes you up the almost 2500 foot assent to the entrance. The
entrance to the caves is huge and the, over one mile, passage
through the caves is lighted, enabling visitors to view the spectacular
stalagmites, stalactites, the petrified sea shells and other interesting
crystalline formations. A 90-minute tour takes you through the
16 caverns nestled inside of Cerro del Fray (Friar's Mountain).
This is an incredible journey into mother earth and this can
be a very special adventure for the whole family. There are picnic
grounds, children's playgrounds and a swimming pool near the parking
area. For this reason the caves can get very crowded on weekends.
Monterrey Activities
Monterrey has enough attractions to keep it's visitors on a
busy schedule. There is a really Parque La Pastora, with a zoo,
a lake and a wooded area. Connected to the zoo is a separate children's
amusement park, Bosque Mágico, with over thirty-five rides
and other attractions just for kids and teens, including amusement
park rides, water rides and special shows. Plaza Sésamo,
a water based amusement park that includes many dry rides, mainly
for the younger set, and also the site of a great water park for
all ages.
There are bullfights and rodeos at various locations
and times throughout the year. Soccer is big in Monterrey and
the city has several large stadiums, catch a professional soccer
match if your timing allows. An abundance of modern multi-cinemas,
show current movies, all over the city and in all of the malls.
Scattered around the countryside which surrounds Monterrey are
various rivers, some with spectacular waterfalls and several natural
hot springs. The surrounding mountains offer attractions, too
numerous to list.
There are cultural activities of different types in different
venues being presented almost every day, all year long. Live concerts,
from classical to rock, featuring big name performers are a regular
occurrence in Monterrey. A good place to get information and up
to date schedules, for all local activities, is the state tourism
office near the north end of the Gran Plaza (Tel. 8340-1080).
Try to find a copy of "What's on Monterrey" in a hotel
lobby or local restaurant for an up to date listing of current
attractions.
Two parks stand out as excellent places to spend some of your
leisure time. Parque Fundidora, is a giant park adjacent to the
city's modern Expo and Convention Center. Located close to the
physical center of the city, this is a great place to relax, get
some exercise or to just get away from it all. There are even
speakers located along the paths within the park which emit soothing
music, adding to the relaxation factor that is available here.
There are large green areas along with historical remnants of
the areas first industry, a museum and various other entertainment
venues. This park is also the location of the Monterrey Grand
Prix, which is the opening event on the CART racing schedule for
Indy cars. This race, usually held in March, is a very popular
local attraction and draws large crowds to Monterrey. Bicycles
are available for rent within the park and there are miles of
trails, some of which include portions of the race track. While
you are in the park take time to visit the ultra modern Expo Center,
which is open to the public, if there are no expositions taking
place.
Chipinque National Park, which borders Garcia
Garza, offers a very pleasant location for many outdoor activities
and is very close (15 minutes) to the city center. This park is
an excellent place to relax or get some active exercise. Jogging,
hiking, mountain biking and just plain walking along the roadway
or the well-kept trails within the park are very popular with
the locals. There is a nice hotel, high in the mountains, with
a great restaurant that offers some pretty fantastic views. A
log cabin style complex, near the entrance of the park, features
a restaurant and a convenience store, which sells picnic supplies
and souvenirs.
Golf and Tennis
Although the populace is very receptive to recreational activities
and the city has some high quality private clubs for both golf
and tennis, public facilities are surprisingly sparse. The offerings,
as limited as they are, seem to be very reasonably priced.
Shopping
Monterrey is becoming a shopping powerhouse. Many factories build
all kinds of furniture, which is then sold locally at reasonable
prices. Arts and crafts, from all over Mexico, are sold at numerous
locations. Local leather products are prominent and this city
offers probably one of México's largest inventories of
cowboy boots, which are sold all over the city. The Zona Rosa,
adjacent to the Gran Plaza, is the center of shopping in the downtown
area. A large pedestrian mall has been created and is very popular,
especially with locals.
Modern shopping malls are also very popular in Monterrey and
they tend to get very crowed especially on weekends. The malls
offer everything you would expect, from upscale department stores
to elegant specialty shops and food courts with some incredible
menus. Most malls also have multi-cinemas, featuring first run
movies in English, with sub-titles in Spanish. Many unique items
for home decoration are another popular item in Monterrey.
