Unspoken rules you must know before visiting Mexico

The nation of Mexico is cheaper than ever to visit, with the Aussie dollar up against the peso compared to this time last year.

And with destinations including the huge and historical Mexico City, beachside resorts like Cancun and ancient Mayan ruins of the Yucatan peninsula, 40m tourists visit each year from around the world.

Many cruises from the US also call at Mexican ports, such as the celeb favourite, Los Cabo.

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However, there are a few things Aussies need to know before heading there for the first time.

Brett Mitchell, Managing Director ANZ of travel firm Intrepid, which runs tours to Mexico, revealed a few surprising dos and don'ts.

"Public drinking is a no-go," he tells 9Travel.

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"Unlike in Australia where cracking a beer at a picnic isn't unheard of, in Mexico it's illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces, so best save your margaritas for the beach bars or cantinas."

And just like in the neighbouring USA, tipping is expected.

Aim to add 10 to 15 per cent at restaurants and bars as well as when using taxis, he said.

However, beware of hopping into taxis on the street, and use Uber or Didi.

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"If you do hop in a street cab, agree on the fare before getting in and be sure to keep small change on you," he advises.

Meanwhile, when shopping at markets prepare to haggle the price,.

But don't embarrass yourself by trying to do that in shops.

Also, if you're visiting churches or joining any other traditional celebrations, cover your shoulders, don't talk loudly or use your phone.

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And don't take any photos without asking.

"Mexico is a respectful and family-oriented culture, so being polite and considerate is key," he says.

"A friendly "buenos días" when entering shops or restaurants is always appreciated, and dressing modestly, especially away from beach areas or when visiting churches, is a simple way to show respect."

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And while one of the main attractions of the nation is the tasty food, you might want to get used to dining later in the day.

"Lunch is the biggest meal of the day, typically served between 1.30pm and 4pm, and dinner happens late," he says.

Meanwhile, if that fiery sauce is too much for you, you don't need to suffer.

"If you're not great with chilli, just say so," he says.

"Locals will happily steer you away from the salsas that bite back, and you'll often find tortillas or corn chips on hand to soothe the heat.

When is the best time to go to Mexico?

The dry and cool season is considered the best time for a Mexico holiday.

That's from December to April.

However if you do go during the wet season from June to October, the rain doesn't usually last for long.

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The shoulder season can be cheaper in Mexico - that's May and June and September and October.

You might also want to avoid American Spring Break, when students go to the resorts to party.

That's usually in March or early April.

Where to go in Mexico

City lovers will thrive in the buzzing Mexico City.

But if you want a more relaxing holiday, head to the beach resorts like Cancun, Los Cabos or Puerto Vallarta

History fans should see the Mayan ruins on the Yucatán peninsula.

Make sure you check the latest travel advice from Smartraveller, where warnings include the risk of violent crime.

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