1. Summary of Recommended Guidebooks for Mexico
Discover the essential guidebooks for exploring Mexico, catering to various travel styles and preferences. Each guidebook is equipped with vital information to enhance your journey.
Lonely Planet Mexico
Among the most comprehensive guidebooks on the market, Lonely Planet’s Mexico Guidebook is popular with backpackers and ideal for independent budget travelers. This guide covers a lot of ground, particularly for those who don’t plan much in advance and need a wealth of information readily available. However, if you’re planning to stay in one area of Mexico, it may be more practical to get one of the regional guidebooks or purchase the individual chapters that are available for download.
The Rough Guide to Mexico
The Rough Guide to Mexico is designed for budget travelers but is comprehensive enough to appeal to all. This guidebook features detailed maps, essays on Mexican history and culture, a wide range of lodging options, and recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations. Although some readers might be deterred by its lack of specific information such as bus schedules, it is important to note that schedules are subject to change. Therefore, making your own inquiries regarding these specifics is advisable.
Fodor’s Mexico
Fodor’s Mexico offers plenty of valuable information about popular tourist destinations; however, it may not be as helpful if you plan to explore beyond traditional areas. Interestingly, Fodor’s guidebook entirely overlooks Monterrey, Mexico’s second-largest city. Nevertheless, the guidebook features visually appealing layouts with good maps and photographs. Symbols in the margins assist readers in easily identifying recommended places, child-friendly attractions, and price ranges.
Eyewitness Travel Guide Mexico
Known for their rich visuals, Eyewitness Travel Guides offer comprehensive pictures, drawings, floor plans, maps, and illustrations. The Mexico edition is no different, making it a great planning tool. However, keep in mind that it is not updated yearly like some other guides, so the information may not always be current. Utilize this guide primarily for pre-trip planning.
Footprint Mexico
Footprint’s Mexico guidebook manages to include an extraordinary amount of information; however, it also covers all seven Central American countries, which may be more than you need if your focus is strictly on Mexico.
Let’s Go Mexico
The Let’s Go series is primarily aimed at budget travelers and backpackers, yet even travelers not constrained by budget can find useful information regarding public transportation and trip planning.
National Geographic Traveler: Mexico
National Geographic’s Mexico guidebook is adorned with glossy full-color maps and photographs that cater to both armchair travelers and adventure seekers. The essays on Mexican history, culture, and food are engaging, though the practical information may not be as in-depth as other guides. Nevertheless, this guide will help you discover Mexico’s finest offerings and serves as an excellent complement to other guidebooks.
