Mexico City is a metropolis like no other - sprawling, dynamic, and layered with centuries of history. Today, it stands as one of the largest cities on the planet - home to over 23 million people in the greater metropolitan area - and yet, sinking slowly descending into the soft lakebed it was built upon and surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, including the legendary Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl.

Like any city, there are few things to be aware of before you arrive and to keep in the back of your mind while you are there.

IF POSSIBLE, I STRONGLY RECOMMEND PLANNING YOUR TRAVEL AROUND MEXICO BEFORE THE WEDDING. AFTER THE WEDDING, IT WILL BE SPRING BREAK, WHEN ALL SCHOOLS IN MEXICO ARE ON HOLIDAY, AND POPULAR PLACES GET VERY CROWDED..

1. Altitude Adjustment:
CDMX sits at over 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level. You might feel shortness of breath or fatigue, especially in the first day or two.

2. Air Quality Awareness:
Air pollution can be an issue, especially in the dry season. Check air quality apps - especially if you have respiratory sensitivities.

3. Traffic & Transport:
Traffic is intense, especially during rush hours (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM).

• Use Uber instead of hailing taxis on the street - Uber is fairly cheap.

• The Metro is very cheap (£0.25p) and fairly reliable, but it gets packed in peak hours - worse than London by a mile.

• Walking is great within many neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Coyoacán.

4. Safety:
CDMX is safe in tourist-friendly areas, but as in any large city:

• Avoid flashing valuables.

• Stick to well-lit streets at night.

• Be cautious in less central areas unless with a guide or local.

• Past 11pm its best to be in the following areas: Condesa, Planco, Roma, Coyoacan - I am only being a bit paranoid here and looking after y’all.

5. Tipping Etiquette:
Tipping is customary:

• 10–15% at restaurants

• Parking attendants $10-15 , or hotel staff $50

6. Water & Food:

• Don’t drink tap water—stick to bottled or filtered water.

• Street food is incredible! Choose stalls with a good crowd and high turnover. Try tacos al pastor, tamales, and tlacoyos!

7. Cash vs. Card:
Cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but smaller vendors and markets often take cash only. Use ATMs inside banks when withdrawing pesos.

8. Weather:
Mexico City has a mild climate but can vary:

• Dry Season (Nov–April): Sunny and cool, chilly at night.

• Rainy Season (May–Oct): Expect afternoon showers, especially June–August. Bring a light jacket or umbrella!