La Taberna de Los Amigos: What to Pack and Bring

The Cancun sun is intense year-round. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen are non-negotiable. Choose a sunscreen explicitly labeled 'reef-safe' to protect the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, which stretches along the coast.

Regular sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that harm coral. Even if you are not planning to snorkel or dive, runoff from pools and showers eventually reaches the ocean. Mosquito repellent is also crucial, especially if you plan to visit cenotes, ruins like Chichén Itzá or Tulum, or dine outdoors in the evening.

A lightweight, long-sleeved shirt can offer additional sun protection during the day and mosquito defense after dusk. Consider a small, waterproof dry bag for electronics if you plan any water activities or boat excursions.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Mexico. While not always enforced, this is a standard international travel requirement. Upon arrival, you will receive an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) or tourist card.

Keep this document safe, as you will need to present it when you leave the country. Losing it means extra time at the airport and a potential fee. Mexico also has a tourist environmental tax, often called the 'Visitax,' which can be paid online before arrival or at the airport.

While some airlines or tour operators might include it, verify beforehand. Having digital copies of your passport, flight information, and hotel reservations on your phone or in the cloud can be a lifesaver if physical documents are lost or stolen.

While US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, especially in the Hotel Zone, paying in Mexican pesos generally offers a better exchange rate. ATMs are plentiful, but use those inside banks or reputable establishments to minimize skimming risks. Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid card freezes.

Credit cards are accepted at most larger hotels, restaurants like La Taberna de Los Amigos, and shops, but smaller vendors, taxis, and market stalls often prefer cash. Tipping is customary in Mexico, typically around 10-15% for good service in restaurants. Have small denominations of pesos on hand for tips, street food, or small purchases.

Many visitors forget that tipping in USD often means the recipient has to exchange it, potentially losing value.

Your packing list will vary depending on your activities. For resort wear, think swimsuits, cover-ups, and casual shorts and tops. Evenings in the Hotel Zone often call for slightly dressier attire, such as sundresses or collared shirts for men.

When dining at places like La Taberna de Los Amigos, smart casual is the standard; avoid beachwear. If you plan to visit archaeological sites like Chichén Itzá or Tulum, lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and comfortable walking shoes are essential. The sun is relentless, and shade is scarce.

For a night out in the party district, dress codes can range from casual to club attire, depending on the venue. Always pack a light jacket or sweater, as air-conditioned interiors can be surprisingly cool, and evenings can sometimes have a slight breeze.

Tap water in Cancun is generally not safe for drinking; stick to bottled water. Most hotels and restaurants, including La Taberna de Los Amigos, use purified water for cooking and ice. Pack any prescription medications in their original containers, along with a copy of your prescription.

Over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, antacids, and anti-diarrhea medicine are readily available at pharmacies (farmacias), which are numerous in Cancun, but having your preferred brands can be comforting. Consider a small first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and hydrocortisone cream for bug bites or minor skin irritations.

Sunburn relief gel is also a good idea. If you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor before traveling and consider travel insurance.