Creative Immersion Retreat
International Travel
Basics
Passport
You will need a passport, one that does not expire within 6 months of your travel. Check NOW and take any necessary steps. Currency Some vendors take American dollars, but local currency is preferred. You can convert at your airport, or in Mexico (Cancun airport or an Isla Mujeres bank). Most can also use ATM card in a Mexican machine. Extra fees for that. I prefer to go to my bank ahead of time. Wells Fargo offers pesos to account holders for no fee. Credit Cards Most standard cards accepted. Depending on provider, there is sometimes a conversion fee. Cash + Credit In all cases, it is recommended that you call your bank/s and let them know you will be traveling. This way, you avoid blocking of your account if they suspect a credit card or ATM card might have been stolen. Health Water Yucatan Peninsula does not have the same water issues as greater Mexico. I still recommend bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, rinsing foods, etc. Hotel will have a large water jar with which you can fill individual bottles. Medical It is recommended that all medications be in original container, in case of any customs concerns. If you need to carry on a liquid medication that exceeds 3 oz, have your prescription with you and allow extra time to go through security prior to flights. There is a medical clinic/hospital on the island. Communication Abroad Power You do not need a converter in Mexico. Wifi Our hotel has wifi in some areas. But international wifi may not be as dependable or fast. There may be times when it slows or is unavailable. Just shrug…and roll with it. There are some cyber or coffee shops that will have wifi available. Phone Talk with your provider about options relative to how you use your phone. If you text a lot or use Instagram a lot, they will have ideas for you. Or if you feel you need to be available for a call from the states, they will have other ideas for you. OR you can simply go off grid! |
Immigration + Customs
While on your flight, a flight attendant will distribute a Customs Form. Most forms ask the point of exit and entry of your flight, your flight number, what goods you may be bringing into the country, where you will stay., Purpose of trip (TOURISM.) Complete the form while on the flight. Immigration Upon entrance into the immigration area, passengers are split into multiple lines. There is generally a line for host country nationals (people with a passport from that country) and one for non-immigrant visitors. In Mexico, you will likely go through the non-immigrant visitor line. Do NOT use your cell phone or cameras in the immigration area. Use of cell phone and electronics is not allowed. Officials will review your travel documents (passport, disembarkation card - provided by flight attendant, etc.) They will likely ask you questions such as: What is the nature of your visit? (Tourism) How long are you staying? Where will you be staying? Some countries require fingerprints and/or photos of every individual entering the country. Official will stamp your passport once you are approved and granted admission. Some passengers might be selected for second level of inspection. Reasons for 2nd level inspection: random checks, questions or issues with documentation. Customs After clearing Immigration and collecting your baggage, proceed through Customs. Customs is responsible for controlling the flow of goods, including animals, transports, foods, personal effects, and hazardous items, into and out of a country. For the vast majority of passengers clearing the customs process only takes a few minutes. Custom officials may or may not inspect your luggage. If they do check your bags and find restricted items, you may be asked to pay duty and/or fines. travel. |
Once through Customs, KEEP the PAPER they hand back to you.
You will need it to exit the country.