How to Find Cheap Hotels in Mexico

Mexico is home to countless vacation attractions, which may make it difficult to decide where you want to take your dream trip. From Acapulco to Cancun, Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara, there are plenty of destinations to consider. A quick review of what this fascinating country has to offer should help you choose a cheap trip that's ideally suited to your personal tastes and budget.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Passport (required for U.S. travelers to Mexico as of 2007)

Know Your Destination

1. Rest assured that Mexico is a fantastic tourist destination, offering a rich variety of cultural and outdoor activities that can be enjoyed on a budget.

2. Take your pick. Mexico is full of small-town coastal destinations, but you can also choose to stay in a large, cosmopolitan metropolis. Choose a small town this year and a busy city center the next to experience the diversity of Mexico!

3. Brush up on your Spanish! Mexico is the most populated Spanish-speaking country in the world. In the tourist areas, however, many people speak English.

Choose Your Lodging

4. Consider choosing cheap accommodations near one of Mexico's famous Mayan sites. Palenque is located at the border of Mexico and Guatemala in the highland rainforest and San Gervasio is on the island of Cozumel. The La Venta Olmec Museum is located in Villahermosa. To book accommodations, contact Mexico Tourism Board at (800) 44 MEXICO or visit their Web site (see Resources, below).

5. Choose cheap accommodations in Mexico City to get a taste of the capital of the country. The city's historic center, the Plaza de la Constitución is a site to behold and a national treasure.

6. Stay in Teotihuacán, 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, to experience the largest pre-Hispanic city in Mexico. The Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and other ancient treasures lie on a mile-long stretch called the Calle de los Muertos, or Great Way of the Dead.

7. Find accommodations in one of Mexico's famous beach resorts if you're interested in water activities. Cabo San Lucas, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Acapulco are all popular beach destinations.

8. Step outside the mainstream. Inn-style accommodations in Mexico can be very comfortable, and a great way to save money while participating in the culture of the country.

9. Book your accommodations at the same time you book your flight and rental car. Often, you will be able to find cheaper deals when purchasing packages online.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're planning to go to a popular beach resort, be aware that they can be extremely crowded during Spring Break (typically the second and third weeks of March).