The local currency is the Mexican Peso although US dollars and major
credit cards are accepted in most places. The exchange rate varies every
day, we strongly recommend using the local ATMs so you will be able to
withdraw money at the best exchange rate possible with minimum fees.
Some ATMs will give you the option of the desired currency you want to
exchange for whether it be Mexican Pesos or US dollars.
CREDIT CARDS OR CASH?
We strongly recommend trying to use your credit cards where accepted
because many of them do not charge fees for using an alternate currency.
But, it is always recommended that you carry some cash. This is because
there are many places that only accept cash such as; street shacks, flea
markets, or beach souvenir vendors. It is handy however that most of
these cash only locations will accept US dollars or Pesos. Keep in mind
that paying in Pesos is better when it comes to the exchange rate to avoid
a lower rate.
BANKS & ATMS
The major local Banks are: BBVA, CITIBANAMEX, BANORTE, HSBC,
SCOTIABANK and SANTANDER. Much like in the United States their regular
working hours are Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm and some
even operate until 2 pm on Saturdays. All of them have ATM machines
inside their establishment available 24 hrs. We strongly recommend
being cautious before, during, and after your transactions inside of the
ATMs. It is always better to use the buddy system when extracting large
sums of money.
STREETS WALKING
If you are going for a walk in Mexico, please always watch for cars in any
area, since drivers tend to not always follow driving rules. We recommend
that you follow proper safety guidelines for crossing the street. Please
find the proper crossing paths and be mindful of the cars around you. Los
Cabos is ranked as one of the top safest tourist destinations in Mexico,
but it is important that you try to stay within the tourist boundaries.
For nightlife outings, we strongly recommend using your hotel taxis
or pre-arranged private transportation. The drivers are very friendly,
knowledgeable, and bilingual. They will be happy to keep an eye on you
while you have fun until you’re ready to go back to your hotel.
DRIVING
If you are planning on renting a car for your trip, there are plenty of car
rentals available to you. You can mainly find them within the premises of
the airport but some companies even have branches in the main cities.
Driving in Mexico can be a little challenging at times due to some reckless
drivers, but it mostly works the same way that you are familiar with. I
recommend just following the proper driving rules and being mindful of
the drivers around you. As long as you pay attention to your surroundings
you will arrive at your destination safely.
GAS STATIONS
Gas stations work a little differently in Mexico. The big difference is you
never have to pump your own gas. There are gas station workers that
will do that for you at no extra cost. You can pay for your gas with cash or
with your credit/debit card. Most of the time the gas station worker will
be happy to clean your front windshield, check your oil, or check your tire
pressure if asked. Keep in mind that if you do ask for this, the gas station
worker might expect a tip for their extra work. It will make them happy
for them to receive a tip, it will be greatly appreciate it.
How to Dial Toll Free Numbers
To call an 800 number, substitute with 880
To call an 888 number, substitute with 881
To call an 877 number, substitute with 882
To call an 866 number, substitute with 883
To call an 855 number, substitute with 884
To call an 844 number, substitute with 885
Emergency Phone Numbers
Canada Consulate – (624) 142 4333
U.S. Consulate - (624) 143 3566
Emergency – 911 from a local number
Fire Station San Lucas - (624)143 3577
Fire Station San José del Cabo - (624) 142 2466
Migration - (624) 105 0976
Police Department - Cabo San Lucas & San José del Cabo
911 from a local number
Road Assistance – (624) 125 3584 / 047 from a local number
Touristic Police - (624) 143 3977
Highway Patrol – (624)146-0573
Cabo San Lucas
AMC (American Medical Center) - (624) 143 4911 /
www.amchospitals.com
BlueNet Hospital Cabo San Lucas - (624) 104 3910 /
www.bluenethospitals.com
CMC (Cabo San Lucas Medical Center) - (624) 143 9728 /
www.hospitalcmc.com
H+ (Canadian Healthcare Council) - +52 (624) 104 9300 /
www.hmasloscabos.mx
Hospiten Cabo San Lucas - (624) 245 6000 /
www.hospiten.com San José del Cabo
H+ (Canadian Healthcare Council) - +52 (624) 104 9300 /
www.hmasloscabos.mx
Hospiten San José del Cabo - (624) 105 8550 /
www.hospiten.com
Walk-in Clinic by BlueNet - (624) 105 2328 /
www.bluenethospitals.com
Taxis
Taxis – (624) 1225490 / San José del Cabo Airport
Taxis – (624) 142 0580 – San José del Cabo/Centro
Taxis – (624) 1420401 – Cabo San Lucas (Misión Los Cabos)
