02/02/2026
How to plan your first trip to Mexico
With cactus-strewn highlands, thick southern jungles and miles of sun-drenched beaches, Mexico is made for adventure for any first-time visitor. But, as I've discovered during my research trips for guidebooks and articles, the country is also crammed with cultural experiences, from pre-Hispanic monuments to local markets, where Mexico's Indigenous communities showcase their culture.
Mexico has long been a favourite among tourists for its Mayan ruins, spring break scene and globally beloved cuisine. But the nation has been focusing on its travel infrastructure for some time now. In December 2023, the first section of the controversial train line Tren Maya opened between Campeche and Cancun in the Yucatán Peninsula. Eventually, it will cross five regions and run 966 miles (1,554km), connecting with the Mayan ruins of Palenque. Airport additions have also increased access. Felipe Angeles International Airport opened in Mexico City in 2022 and Tulum's first airport, Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, came in 2023. Jalisco's new Costalegre Airport has begun welcoming private fliers and shuttle service to Puerto Vallarta, with commercial flights planned, though not yet confirmed. Meanwhile, a steady stream of luxury accommodations has flooded in over the last decade, particularly in Mexico City, Oaxaca and Tulum.
