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General information about Mexico

Language - Spanish is the official language.

Currency - The monetary unit of Mexico is the peso. One American dollar is equivalent to approximately 11 pesos. The currency is composed of several denominations in metal and paper: there are 20 and 50 cent coins, including 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 pesos; there are 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 pesos bills in circulation.

Gratuities/ Tips - Service charges are not included in the bill at restaurants. A tip of 10 to 15 percent is appreciated.

Telephone Cards - It is necessary to purchase a Prepaid Card in order to use public telephones. These can be purchased at self-service stores, tobacco shops and newspaper stands.

Taxes - There is a Value Added Tax in Mexico, better known as I.V.A. This tax is paid when purchasing and consuming a majority of articles and everyone pays it, including residents and tourists. This tax is already included in the price of food and drinks in restaurants, store and boutique purchases and excursion fares. It is presently 15% of the value of the purchase.

Personal Security - It is recommended that for your personal security not to wear expensive jewelry, ostentatious articles and other valuables; instead they should be placed in the safe deposit box of the hotel.