Accommodation
Hotels
The enormous growth of tourism in Mexico is reflected in the wide range of hotels from the modern, elegant and expensive to the clean and modest. There are a variety of chain hotels throughout Mexico as well as ‘dude’ ranches, thermal spas and resorts that feature specific facilities. Reservations should be confirmed by hotels in writing at the time of booking as hotel tariffs are liable to alteration at any time; it is especially important to make reservations when travelling in the high season. There is a wide range of prices with plenty of choice throughout the country; every hotel is required to display officially approved rate schedules, but the visitor should note that most rates do not include meals. There are also a number of more modest guest houses (casas de huespedes). Information can be obtained from the Mexican Hotel and Motel Association, CP 11590, Thiers 83, Colonia Anzurez, México DF (tel: (5) 203 0466/6946; fax: (5) 203 7246; e-mail: reservaciones@asociaciondehoteles.com.mx; website: www.hotelesenmexico.com.mx).
Grading: Mexico operates a 5-star grading system similar to that in Europe, with an additional Gran Turismo category. All hotels are covered. The criteria for inclusion in each of the six grades are as follows: Gran Turismo: 108 criteria including central air-conditioning, satellite dish and minimum floor area of 32 sq metres (105 sq ft). Shopping area and additional quality services are also required; 5-star: 96 to 101 criteria, including room service 16 hours a day and minimum floor area of 28 sq metres (92 sq ft). Restaurant, cafe, nightclub, commercial areas, good hygiene and security are also required; 4-star: 71 to 76 criteria, including adequate furniture and minimum floor area of 25 sq metres (82 sq ft). Some commercial areas and a good standard of maintenance are also required; 3-star: 47 to 52 criteria, including adequate furniture and minimum floor area of 21.5 sq metres (71 sq ft). Restaurant, cafe, ceiling fan and some complimentary services are required; 2-star: 33 to 37 criteria, including adequate furniture and minimum floor area of 19 sq metres (62 sq ft). Standards for hygiene and security should be met. First-aid facilities are required; 1-star: 24 to 27 criteria, including adequate furniture and minimum floor area of 15 sq metres (49 sq ft). Standards for guests’ comfort should be met.
Camping/Caravanning
The national parks in Mexico are officially the only areas where no permits or fees are required for camping and hiking. Camping is allowed anywhere within the park areas. Most camping, however, is outside national parks - the most popular regions being the west coast and Baja California. The western Pacific coast has excellent caravan ‘hookups’ while Baja California is far more informal and isolated. The number of caravan parks along Mexico’s major motorways is growing, and there is no difficulty in locating places to park.
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