With these routes, Flair will become the first low-cost airline to offer direct connections between Canada and Mexico City, competing directly with Aeroméxico and Air Canada, but with considerably lower prices. 

According to the carrier’s press release, prices start at CAD $160 (US $116) for the Mexico City-Toronto route, and CAD $141 (US $102) for the Mexico City-Vancouver route.  

“For too long, flights to Mexico City have been out of reach for too many,” said Maciej Wilk, CEO of Flair Airlines, in the press release.

“We’re changing that. Flair is the only value airline in Canada, making it possible for customers to explore the capital of Mexico, and for Mexicans to discover all that Toronto and Vancouver have to offer.”

Both routes are set to operate three times a week per the following schedules:

YVR – AICM 

Start: Oct. 27, 2025

Frequency: Mondays, Fridays and Sundays 

Departure from YVR: 4:10 p.m. Arrival at AICM: 11:45 p.m.

Return from AICM: 12:45 a.m. Arrival at YVR: 4:55 a.m. 

YYZ – AICM 

Start: Oct. 28, 2025

Frequency: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 

Departure from YYZ: 7:15 p.m. Arrival at AICM: 11:45 p.m.

Return from AICM: 12:45 a.m. Arrival at YYZ: 6:25 a.m.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by flair airlines (@flairairlines)

Acting Consul General of Mexico in Canada Luis Hernandez celebrated the news, saying that “Mexico and Canada have long enjoyed a close and dynamic relationship, connecting families, businesses and curious travellers who explore each other’s rich cultures,” adding that the new routes strengthen the link between the two nations.

These new routes add to Flair’s existing routes from Toronto and Vancouver to Cancún, Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. According to CEO Maciej Wilk, these routes have been “highly successful” and have not been negatively impacted by the new visa requirements that went into force in 2024 for Mexican visitors to Canada.

“The visa requirement is what it is but we do not have problems with filling up our aircraft in and out of Mexico. I’m not concerned,” he stressed. 

Flair is a Canadian ultra-low-cost airline founded in 2005 and headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. Initially operating charter and cargo flights, since 2017 it has focused on scheduled passenger flights, primarily within Canada and to destinations in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America.  

With reports from Business Intelligence for B.C.

The post Canadian budget carrier Flair to offer US $102 flights from CDMX to Vancouver appeared first on Mexico News Daily

The regulations specifically target the community of La Ventana on the southeastern, or Gulf of California, side of the peninsula where the overwhelming majority of the boats offering orca-tracking services operate.

Swimming alongside orcas at La Ventana Beach, Mexico pic.twitter.com/PS4x2XJgv2

— ViralRush (@tweetciiiim) June 24, 2025

The protocol — published by the state Environment Ministry (SMADS) — requires that tourism boats interacting with the animals acquire permits and limits the number of boats that can surround an individual or family of orcas on any given day.

The Model Management Plan for the Conservation and Non-Extractive Use of Orcinus orca aims to ensure that tourists are allowed to swim with orcas only in La Ventana.

Georgina Saad, a marine biologist who studied at the Autonomous University of Baja California Sur, called the site limit the most important part of the pilot program.

“We can send the message that this is the only place to do it, and this is how it is going to be done, and the rest is illegal,” she told the newspaper The Guardian.

Saad and Erick Higuera, a marine biologist and documentary filmmaker based in Baja California Sur, were among the scientists advising the SMADS as it sought to address the legal gray area being exploited by tourism providers.

The activity, which reportedly took off after several Instagram posts went viral in 2019, fell between strict whale-watching regulations — which apply specifically to baleen whales and the sperm whale — and the orcas’ status as a species “Subject to Special Protection.” 

So while the “Special Protection” norm provides guidelines for conservation and management, it does not regulate swimming or other direct interactions with orcas, which are actually not whales but members of the oceanic dolphin family (Delphinidae).

The plan goes beyond establishing a quota on the number of people and boats that can interact with the orcas. It also requires boat captains to respect the animals’ behavior — if they exhibit distress, the boats must retreat.

The revenues from the boat permits will fund training for captains and local residents as well as pay for patrol boats to enforce the decree.

“The goal is to teach captains and guides how to read the whales’ behavior so they know when to interact with the animals, how to do so safely, and when to give the orcas space,” Saad told The Guardian.

Not everyone is happy with the SMADS decision. Local boat captains have expressed concern that the permits will go to established tour companies in Cabo San Lucas and La Paz.

Some tour company operators complained that they were not involved in crafting the plan. Others wondered why the program is limited to La Ventana when orcas roam around the entire peninsula.

With reports from The Guardian and El Sudcaliforniano

The post Baja California Sur becomes first state to legalize swimming with orcas appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Long before I knew about home exchanges, I used to like staying in a friend’s home, with or without them. When I was with them, they were good company; alone, I felt a sneaky kind of freedom, as if I had been given permission to be an intruder.

If you like hosting friends, you may be a candidate for home exchanges. My husband Barry and I joined homeexchange.com about 15 years ago and have since enjoyed house swaps in the Czech Republic, France, Ireland, Germany, Colombia and Ecuador, as well as in San Francisco, Portland, New Orleans and Breckenridge, Colorado. 

We would have exchanged homes in Mexico too, but so far, most people we’ve approached want to swap for only two or three days, and we prefer a week or more.

Home exchanges are only one way to stay for free when you’re traveling; another popular option is housesitting, and in this article, I’ll discuss both.

Home exchanges

For about US $230 a year — the average membership fee for most home exchange organizations — you can take advantage of three types of swaps: simultaneous, nonsimultaneous and point exchanges. The point system means you can accumulate points to use for a future home exchange.

Home exchanges require preparation. You need to decide how to handle such issues as: 

Guest information: We have a detailed guestbook providing information about Wi-Fi, contact and emergency numbers, utilities, how to use our solar-heated shower, garbage, neighbors, the cleaning schedule and nearby food stores, restaurants and transportation.

Home maintenance: Who will make sure the house is ready for guests? Our Mexican cleaner puts out fresh towels and leaves a welcoming bottle of wine on the kitchen table.

Use of amenities: Will you allow guests to use your car, bicycles etc.?

Private storage area: If you have personal belongings, valuables or foodstuffs in the house, you’ll need to put them away in a secure storage area. We feel annoyed when we stay in homes where the owners leave us no space to put our stuff.

We’ve found being proactive pays off. For example, since Barry’s British family has a reunion in England every two years, we reach out to home exchangers somewhere relatively close to enjoy a mini-vacation in a new area.

We love the personal connection woven into many home exchanges. In Brittany, for example, we had gotten off the train from Paris and were on our bikes when it started to rain. Our hosts drove 30 miles and picked us up! Meanwhile, in Prague, we enjoyed not only the couple whose home we rented but also their neighbors. A year later, the neighbors visited us in Guanajuato.

Be sure to carefully vet not just the home but the neighborhood where you exchange before committing. We were excited when a couple from Colombia invited us to stay at their home in Medellín. We knew they lived in the suburbs but didn’t realize how gated, bland and empty their neighborhood was. The only upside was that we’d hire an Uber driver daily, and our rides became a highlight of the day. The drivers were eager to share their stories and tell us how much had improved since Medellín’s infamous drug cartel era. 

Housesitting

Everyone we know in Mexico who housesits does so through the home and petsitting organizations House Sit Mexico or Trusted Housesitters. With these platforms, just as with home exchanges, you pay an annual fee: US $79 for House Sit Mexico and starting at $129 for Trusted Housesitters. 

One Guanajuato couple we know has housesat so many times in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán, that they have become friends with several owners and now housesit informally, rather than pay a membership fee. They also housesit regularly in San Miguel de Allende and Vancouver, British Columbia, where they lived before moving to Mexico. Another woman we know — currently housesitting in Costa Rica — lives in Tepotzlán, Morelos, and usually stays at homes in different parts of Mexico.

Everyone agrees it’s important to ask the owners a lot of questions before making the decision to housesit. Find out how much time is required to take care of any animals the house may have, so you know how much freedom you’ll have to come and go during the day.  If you don’t want to drive the owners’ car, ask if the neighborhood is walkable and near public transportation, or be willing to take taxis.

It’s crucial to ask about the weather. “Our hardest housesit was at a home on the Nayarit coast in June,” says Rachel, a Canadian. “The home was near the jungle with no air conditioning. Lots of mosquitoes, and the humidity was grueling! It was a long three weeks!”

Rachel also points out that housesitting as a couple is easier because if there’s a problem, one can get help while the other stays with the animals. 

So take your pick. Whether you choose home exchange, housesitting or both, each is not only a bargain, but you get to know a new area and will probably make new friends along the way.

Louisa Rogers and her husband Barry Evans divide their lives between Guanajuato and Eureka, on California’s North Coast. Louisa writes articles and essays about expat life, Mexico, travel, physical and psychological health, retirement and spirituality. Her recent articles are available on her website, authory.com/LouisaRogers

The post The fun, friendly and frugal way to travel within (and outside) Mexico appeared first on Mexico News Daily

It was this yearning to connect with Mexican culture that drew me to San Miguel de Allende, where I’ve lived for the past two years with my family. We were living in Playa del Carmen before that, fully embracing the outdoorsy lifestyle and international community. But something was missing: We felt like we were in a bubble, disconnected from the true spirit of Mexico. 

When we moved our home base to San Miguel, the shift was apparent. It didn’t take long for our family to connect with the local community and build friendships with welcoming Mexicans who all eagerly shared their foods, traditions and way of life. The vibrant festivals, colorful markets and amazing people here have helped us to truly immerse in Mexican culture and get under the skin of Mexico.

In that spirit, I introduce you to the next installment of the Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 series, where we pick out the best of the country tailored to different types of travelers. Here are six destinations for culture travelers, each offering a unique window into Mexico’s identity.

Pátzcuaro: For Purépecha traditions

Forget what you think you know about Día de Muertos from animated movies. To truly understand its profound, soulful roots, you must come to the source: the Lake Pátzcuaro region in Michoacán. While the island of Janitzio gets most of the fame, the real magic is found in the smaller lakeside villages and the enchanting Pueblo Mágico of Pátzcuaro itself.

This is the heartland of the Purépecha people, a unique Indigenous group whose ancestors have existed since pre-Hispanic times. Their language, crafts and food are on full display in Pátzcuaro. My favorite thing to do here is sit by Plaza Vasco de Quiroga, one of the largest and most beautiful squares in Mexico, listening to the Purépecha language spoken around me and getting a sense of the culture that has endured for centuries.

Here, you’ll also see women in traditional dress selling intricate embroidery and copper goods from the nearby town of Santa Clara del Cobre. With extra time, you can visit the surrounding artisan villages, each with its own specialty, from wooden masks in Tócuaro to woven reed mats in Ihuatzio. Explore the Tzintzuntzan archaeological site, the ancient capital of the Purépecha, where a majestic row of five circular pyramids stands overlooking Lake Pátzcuaro. Then take a boat to the island of Yunuén for a quieter, more authentic experience than Janitzio. 

Zacatecas: For baroque architecture 

If the crowds of Guanajuato or San Miguel de Allende feel overwhelming, let me introduce you to their lesser-known, equally stunning cousin: Carved from pink cantera stone and nestled in a high desert valley, Zacatecas is arguably one of Mexico’s most charming colonial cities. 

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Zacatecas built its wealth on silver, and that opulence is etched into every corner of its dramatic, baroque architecture. The city’s cathedral is a masterpiece of Churrigueresque detail (a dramatic style of Baroque architecture infused with Mexican touches). Don’t miss the city’s phenomenal museums — including the Rafael Coronel Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of Mexican masks and the Manuel Felguérez Museum of Abstract Art, a world-class institution set in a former seminary.

But the culture here isn’t just in the past. Zacatecas has a surprisingly edgy and artistic soul. Ride the teleférico (cable car) across the city for staggering views, and head up to Cerrito de la Fe to see the largest statue of Jesus Christ in Latin America. Then, do something you can’t do anywhere else: go clubbing inside a former mine. La Mina Club, located deep within the 16th-century El Edén mine, is an unforgettable experience. 

Oaxaca’s Central Valley: For Zapotec art 

Yes, Oaxaca City is a cultural hub, but the true heart of its artistic traditions beats in the small villages that dot the surrounding valley. A visit to the Central Valley is about cultural immersion and understanding the deep connection between the Zapotec people and their land. 

Basing ourselves in Oaxaca City, my family took several day trips out to the valley and found ourselves diving deep into the Zapotec culture. In San Martín de Tilcajete, we visited wood carving workshops and met artists who magically turn them into fantastical creatures known as alebrijes. In San Bartolo Coyotepec, we watched craftsmen magically transform a lump of grey clay into gleaming black pottery. I remember watching a weaver in Teotitlán del Valle dipping raw wool into a bubbling pot of marigold, transforming it into a vibrant crimson wool rug that the village is so famous for. 

The best experience of all was visiting a palenque (traditional distillery), getting to know the family who owns it, and trying mezcal made the ancestral way using wood-fired pit ovens and hand-shredded agave. The stories they told were woven into the very fabric of the smoky, earthy mezcal we were sipping. Each sip carried the weight of generations, the warmth of the sun-baked earth, and the echo of their laughter around the fire.

Valladolid: For Mayan culture and cenotes

Just two hours from Cancún, Valladolid is a small, charming pueblo mágico with pastel-colored walls and cobblestoned streets. But beneath that Spanish veneer beats a powerful Mayan heart. You’ll see indigenous Mayan ladies strolling about town in their embroidered huipil, people speaking Mayan language and vendors selling Mayan ingredients like Achiote in the markets. 

As the nearest town to Chichén Itza, Valladolid serves as an authentic base for exploring Yucatan’s wonders. While most people only pass through Valladolid on their way to the world-famous archaeological site, it’s wise to spend a few days exploring this culturally rich town. Walk the photogenic pedestrianized street Calzada de los Frailes, before exploring the immaculately preserved Convent of San Bernardino of Siena. Enjoy dinner at IX CAT IK where you can learn about Mayan cooking and try foods prepared with ancestral recipes and homegrown produce. 

One of the highlights of Valladolid for me is Cenote Zaci, a semi-open cenote right in the middle of town. Plunging into that cool, impossibly clear water, in a limestone cavern dripping with vines, you feel like entering another world. For the ancient Mayans, these natural sinkholes weren’t just swimming spots; they were sacred portals to the underworld, Xibalba. On your last day, rise early to reach Chichén Itzá at 8 am (before the tour buses arrive), and you’ll have the place to yourself.

Tepoztlán: For spiritual traditions

Two hours south of Mexico City lies a town cradled in a dramatic valley topped with a pyramid-shaped cliff. Since pre-Hispanic times, Tepoztlán has been considered a place of powerful energy. Today, it’s a fascinating blend of ancient tradition, Catholic faith and New Age spirituality. It’s where you’re just as likely to see a traditional street procession as you are to find a yoga retreat or a temazcal sweat lodge.

If you’ve never tried the temazcal, this is the place to do it. The pre-Hispanic sweat lodge ceremony, led by a local guide, is an intense but incredibly cleansing experience that uses heat, steam and sacred herbs to purify the body and spirit. It’s a powerful, tangible link to Nahuatl healing traditions. Many resorts here, such as Amate Camp, also offer wellness experiences such as the traditional cacao ceremony, sound bath meditation and breathwork. 

For a more profound connection to the town’s ancient roots, make the rewarding hike up the steep, forested path to the Tepozteco pyramid. Reaching the top, breathless, and looking out over the valley from this temple dedicated to the god of pulque, feels like a true pilgrimage.

Puebla city: For artistic and culinary culture

Puebla is a city of high art, and I mean that in every sense – you see it in its architecture, streets and food. I once took a cooking class here to learn the tricks to the well-known regional dish, mole poblano. This iconic sauce is a rich, flavorful blend of chiles, spices and chocolate — and the most famous version of it was created right here in Puebla. 

The entire historic center feels like an open-air museum. I found myself constantly looking up, captivated by the historic buildings adorned with intricate blue and white Talavera tilework, a signature style of the region. This Poblano Baroque architectural style is particularly evident in the Capilla del Rosario within the Templo de Santo Domingo, a chapel lavishly covered in gold leaf. Entering the church feels like stepping inside a treasure box. 

To soak in Puebla, start with a stroll down the famous Calle de los Dulces (Street of Sweets), where generations-old shops offer a taste of the city’s confectionary traditions. Continue to Biblioteca Palafoxiana, a magnificent wood-paneled library recognized as the first of its kind in the Americas. For a glimpse into the city’s living artistic soul, spend some time in the artisan neighborhood, Barrio del Artista, and watch painters at their easels. End your trip on a high note at the nearby El Viejo Rosario, and indulge in their decadent mole poblano. 

San Cristóbal de las Casas: For social history

The air in San Cristóbal de las Casas is thin and crisp. Perched high in the Chiapas mountains, this city is a cultural crossroads where backpackers, artists and Indigenous peoples from surrounding Tzotzil and Tzeltal villages come together. The city’s life spills out onto its network of cobblestoned andadores (pedestrian streets), flanked by centuries-old churches and amber-colored buildings.

The city hums with a palpable social and political consciousness, a direct legacy of the Zapatista movement that put Chiapas on the world stage. The 1994 uprising, led by the Zapatista National Liberation Army (EZLN), was a fight for Indigenous rights after centuries of neglect. That history continues to shape the city’s identity today, where social justice is part of the daily conversation.

The most powerful cultural experience I had in San Cristóbal was in the village of San Juan Chamula, just 10 kilometers away. Inside the town’s famous church, the floor is covered in pine needles and families kneel among hundreds of flickering candles, chanting in Tzotzil and making offerings of Coca-Cola and pox (a local spirit), blending Mayan spirituality with Catholic belief. Note that photography is strictly prohibited in the church; please adhere to their rules as it’s a deeply sacred space that demands respect. 

What’s right for each type of traveler?

We’ve put together a table summarizing which destination would suit culture travelers based on their experience in Mexico.

Beginner travelers are those with limited international experience; maybe this is their first trip to Mexico. Ideal for first-timers who prefer margaritas with training wheels. These travelers stick to well-trodden paths, mastering “¿Dónde está el baño?” while clutching a phrasebook. They thrive in destinations where guacamole arrives with optional spice and the hotel staff speak Google Translate.

Intermediate travelers are those with some international experience who can handle moderate language barriers and cultural differences. Ready to trade resorts for real-deal experiences, these travelers navigate cobblestone streets without face-planting. They’ve graduated to ordering “tres tacos al pastor” without pointing and can haggle for a sombrero in Oaxaca’s markets… but still overpay by 20%.

Advanced travelers are those with extensive experience navigating complex destinations independently. These wanderers treat Mexico like a choose-your-own-adventure novel written in Spanglish. They’ve adopted a street dog named Churro, debate the merits of different artisanal mezcals and know which mercado stall has the best tamales oaxaqueños.

The post Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 Guide: Culture seekers appeared first on Mexico News Daily

What makes a tour actually worth it for me is about the people. These tours are led by locals who are passionate about food, culture, wildlife, and community. They avoid the cookie-cutter scripts and deliver experiences that offer connection. These tours are engaging for everyone, from first-time visitors to residents who have been living here for years.

If you’re planning a trip (or looking for a fun way to enjoy the place you live) and looking for Puerto Vallarta tours that are actually worth your time and money, these four standout experiences rise above the rest.

1. Vallarta Food Tours: The flavors of Versalles

Let’s start with the tour that changed my course in Puerto Vallarta (literally). I signed up for the Vallarta Food Tours’ Versalles Neighborhood Tour a few years ago, not realizing that I’d end the day smitten with more than just tacos. This tour introduced me to a new culinary avenue of Puerto Vallarta, a beloved neighborhood just outside the main tourist zone, where family-run restaurants run the show.

The walking tour includes stops at spots I now frequent weekly, including El Puerco de Oro, where the pork belly tacos are slow-cooked to melty perfection, and Abulón, Antojería del Mar, a seafood-focused restaurant where the shrimp al pastor tacos are tangy and fresh, served atop fluffy blue corn tortillas. You’ll also hit places for handmade tortillas, local birria, and creative desserts. It’s a deep dive into Vallarta’s foodie scene, led by local guides who know the chefs, the stories, and the secret menus.

If you want to experience Puerto Vallarta like a resident, this tour is where to start.

2. Rhythms of the Night: Believe the hype

There are a lot of sunset cruises and dinner shows in Puerto Vallarta, but none quite like Rhythms of the Night. I was skeptical at first. A sunset boat ride, buffet dinner, and jungle performance sounded like a stretch of tourist cliches. I could not have been more wrong.

The experience begins with a scenic catamaran ride across the Bahia de Banderas just as the sun dips into the Pacific. You arrive at a secluded beach only accessible by boat, where hundreds of flickering candles line jungle paths to a stunning open-air amphitheater. Dinner is served buffet-style beneath thatched palapas by the beach, with better-than-expected food (and unlimited drinks). The show is Cirque du Soleil meets ancient Mexican mythology. The aerial acrobatics, fire dancing, and live music unfold under the stars, backed by the sound of waves.

3. Chica Locca Tours: A day on the bay

Before you raise an eyebrow, I will confirm that yes, this is a boat tour. But no, it’s not that kind of party boat. Chica Locca Tours is an all-inclusive catamaran experience that will change your opinion of party-heavy catamaran experiences. My suggestion is to book their tour to Islas Marietas, a protected marine park famous for its volcanic rock formations, endemic wildlife, and the elusive Hidden Beach.

From the moment you board the oversized boat, complete with hammocks, bean bags, and shaded lounge spaces, you know you’re in for a comfortable ride. There’s an open bar and snacks from the get-go, but the focus is really on the water activities. You can snorkel, paddleboard, or lounge on the foam lily pads. If the tide allows, you’ll even swim through the cave to reach Hidden Beach, an experience that everyone should do at least once.

It’s family-friendly, fun, and well-run, with an enthusiastic crew that keeps things organized and upbeat without going full spring break. 

4. Eco Tours Vallarta: Whale watching with a purpose

From December through April, humpback whales return to Bahia de Banderas to breed, give birth, and put on one of nature’s greatest shows. While many companies offer whale-watching tours, Ecotours Vallarta stands out for its ethical and educational wildlife encounters.

Operating since 1994, Ecotours was founded by biologists and continues to be led by experts who are passionate about conservation. Each tour is small and respectful, without loud music or any crowding of the animals. Instead, the guides provide thoughtful narration about whale behavior, biology, and migration, often supported with hydrophones so you can hear the whales sing.

It’s a far cry from the crowded booze cruises that race out into the bay for a quick whale sighting. The emphasis is on understanding and observing these gentle giants without disturbing their natural way of life. It’s ideal for families, photographers, and anyone seeking a more meaningful connection with the Pacific coast’s wildlife. 

Meagan Drillinger is a New York native who has spent the past 15 years traveling around and writing about Mexico. While she’s on the road for assignments most of the time, Puerto Vallarta is her home base. Follow her travels on Instagram at @drillinjourneys or through her blog at drillinjourneys.com.

The post Puerto Vallarta tours that are actually worth it appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Citizens of exempt countries or with a valid passport from the United States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom and the Schengen area, do not need a pre-authorized visa for a tourism visit and are therefore not impacted by the new e-visa.

¡Atención viajeros! México lanza su nueva visa electrónica 100% digital desde el 9 de agosto de 2025. Solo para ingreso aéreo y por 180 días. Conoce requisitos y países elegibles https://t.co/6KF0k0PqKh

— Diario Financiero (@DFinancierodo) July 29, 2025

The e-visa process will enable the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) to create digital files with biometric and electronic data, as well as digital certificates for each traveler.

The e-visa is not valid for travel by land or sea. It is intended for foreigners who require a visa to enter Mexico and only applies to foreigners entering via air for tourism, cultural or family purposes. It does not allow any work activities and is valid for a maximum of 180 days.

For visitors from most parts of Asia and Africa, the e-visa eliminates the need for an interview or a physical stamp in the traveler’s passport. Once approved, the visa can be downloaded online.

In a statement published in the Official Journal of the Federation (DOF) the National Migration Institute (INM) also sought to “simplify, unify and make transparent” several procedures related to the issuance of immigration documents: including obtaining a regional visitor card, regularization for humanitarian reasons, and notifications of marital status, name, nationality, and place of work.

Moreover, it reduced the maximum processing time for notifications of name or nationality changes to three days, and for issuing immigration documents to no later than 10 days.

The new e-visa will cost 575 pesos (US $32), payable online. Infants under two years old are exempt from the payment. 

In contrast, the US is hiking its visa prices

While Mexico is moving to make tourism visits more convenient, the price of most non-immigrant visas to enter the United States is set to more than double in 2026, as part of  U.S. President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. These visas include tourist, student and work visas.

Planning to travel, study, or work in the U.S.?
You might soon have to pay a new $250 visa integrity fee — and no, it doesn’t replace your current visa costs. From tourists to tech workers, this fee applies to all nonimmigrant visa applicants under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill… pic.twitter.com/nuWYzjvHss

— CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18News) July 22, 2025

“No-petition visas,” which include tourist and student permits, will increase from US $160 to $410 next year. Meanwhile, petition-based categories like those of temporary workers or trainees, will increase from $190 to $440 in 2026. 

In a statement criticizing the fee hikes, Geoff Freeman, president of the U.S. Travel Association (USTA), said: “Raising fees on lawful international visitors amounts to a self-imposed tariff on one of our nation’s largest exports: international travel spending.”

With reports from El País and EFE

The post Mexico to launch simplified electronic visa platform in August appeared first on Mexico News Daily

The suspension was announced last week by Muelles del Caribe, the company in charge of the project, after lengthy discussions with the federal Environment Ministry (Semarnat) and state authorities.

Ayer tuvimos el privilegio de bucear en el área en donde pretenden construir el cuarto muelle en la isla de Cozumel.

Habíamos dado una leída al manifiesto de impacto ambiental y nos imaginamos un arenal con uno que otro ejemplar y ya.

La MIA de este proyecto es una colección… pic.twitter.com/8OygIo1aWL

— Guillermo DChristy (@gchristy65) June 15, 2025

The new dock was originally approved by Semarnat in December 2021 and the ministry issued a concession title in January 2022, but the project has faced increasing opposition ever since.

Especially vocal were activists and local tourism operators who claimed the dock would damage the Villa Blanca coral reef located just outside the island’s national marine park.

Greenpeace called the project “the continuation of a massive, predatory tourism model driven by a handful of private interests that devours nature and excludes the local population.”

Emergency responders also voiced concern, saying the pier project — which would occupy 59,000 square meters of federal maritime zone — would obstruct Coast Guard routes and potentially inhibit rescue missions in southern waters.

In June, Semarnat agreed to undertake a new environmental impact study with a particular focus on the reef and the rights of the local population to a healthy environment.

Construction on the dock — which would have been Cozumel’s fourth pier for cruise ships — had not yet begun as Muelles de Caribe was awaiting the issuance of municipal permits.

In a statement, the company said it had agreed to “a suspension” of the project.

“This determination reflects our firm commitment to social, environmental and corporate responsibility, and reaffirms our dedication to the sustainable economic development of the island of Cozumel and the state of Quintana Roo,” the company said in a press release.

However, on July 17, Cozumel Mayor José Luis Chacón said City Hall would not approve the new pier, adding that he had sent a letter to federal officials stating just that. 

Even without a new pier, activists worry about Cozumel being “over-touristed.” 

According to Cozumel authorities, in 2023, nearly 8.8 million people arrived on the island, which is home to roughly 110,000 people. In mid-April, officials were expecting upward of 80,000 tourists during Easter Week alone.

The proposed pier consists of an L-shaped dock covering 1.16 hectares with capacity for 362 meter-long ships. The project also features a terminal building for passenger boarding and disembarking and a road linking the dock to downtown Cozumel.

With reports from El Economista, Riviera Maya News, Greenpeace and Opportimes

The post Cozumel cruise ship dock indefinitely postponed amid environmental concerns appeared first on Mexico News Daily

But that history is in danger of being forgotten, thanks to decades of investment and development in Puerto Vallarta as a tourism destination. But there are still traces of that history, if you know where to look.

To walk the cobblestone streets of its historic center today is to glimpse the enduring spirit of a Vallarta that existed before the tourism boom — one of riverside washerwomen, stevedores at the pier and evenings spent in the plaza sharing stories and tamales.

“‘Old Vallarta’ is a fond memory and a collective recollection filled with nostalgia,” says Lic. Moisés Hernández López, the city’s official chronicler. “It was a period marked by strong community relations, a human scale in everyday life and a pace distinct from what urban development would later impose.”

Though difficult to pinpoint to one decade, “old Vallarta” is generally considered the era between 1920 — when Las Peñas officially became the municipality of Puerto Vallarta — and the early 1960s, just before the arrival of modern tourism.

Hernández describes a tightly knit community shaped by both its natural surroundings and its isolation.

“Puerto Vallarta’s uniqueness lay in its geographic isolation, combined with a strong community identity. The town was a crossroads of maritime trade and agricultural life, where cooperation and solidarity were everyday realities,” he says.

The early economy relied on fishing, copra (coquito oil) extraction, tobacco, plantains and the high-end wood trade. Tile-making, brickmaking, and the physically demanding port work defined the town’s labor force. Infrastructure milestones such as the arrival of electric lighting and the telegraph brought progress, but never eclipsed the community’s collective spirit.

That sense of cohesion still pulses in certain corners of the city. According to Hernández, Puerto Vallarta’s historic center — which is not, in fact, the Zona Romantica, but rather the area that stretches from Calle 31 de Octubre to the Cuale River — is one of the “last bastions” of the city’s earliest identity.

“It preserves the original layout of the old Villa de Las Peñas,” he explains, referring to the original 19th-century settlement that would become Puerto Vallarta.

Here, the parish church of Our Lady of Guadalupe rises above the rooftops, an enduring spiritual and architectural symbol. Hernández is quick to name the Saucedo Theater as another historic landmark worth attention.

Designed in 1922 by Italian architect Ángel Corsi — who also designed various historic buildings in Guadalajara — Puerto Vallarta’s Saucedo Theater became a gathering space for cinema, music and community events, with its significance lingering long after its lights dimmed.

As for the maritime heritage, the leading lights, popularly known as the Vallarta lighthouses, are still preserved. One is located on the malecón at Calle Morelos, and the other is on Matamoros Street at the foot of the hill. Both were built to guide ships and are now considered historical heritage sites. The Matamoros lighthouse, in particular, has been adopted as a popular lookout point for its views of the bay and the historic center.

But perhaps the deepest traces of old Vallarta are not found in stone or plaster, but in tradition. The December pilgrimages in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe still wind through the streets, a tradition so integral to Vallarta’s identity that it has been recognized as intangible cultural heritage by the state of Jalisco.

Likewise, the paseadas of Las Palmas (picnic-style horseback rides hosted by long-established families) and the charrería equestrian tradition kept alive by local families like the Ibarrias, echo the town’s rural roots.

“There are still palaperos (trained constructors of palapas), tile-makers, and fishermen who carry on the old trades,” Hernández notes, though they face increasing pressure from modernization, he says.

“Simple but meaningful customs, such as chatting on the sidewalk, sharing food with neighbors, or participating in social gatherings, have gradually disappeared,” Hernández says. “The arrival of tourism transformed daily rhythms and altered the relationship between the space and its inhabitants.”

And that, he warns, is the biggest threat to Vallarta’s soul: Rapid growth, land speculation and short-sighted development have often treated the city’s memory as expendable.

“The past has too often been seen as a hindrance to development, rather than as a foundation for the future,” he says. “But memory, when well managed, can be a valuable tourism and economic asset.”

Still, signs of hope remain. Preservation efforts have gained momentum, both from official bodies and grassroots collectives. The historic center is a protected zone, even if enforcement is inconsistent. Nonprofit groups and academics are working to catalog buildings in Puerto Vallarta, interview elders and train new generations of historians.

“There’s a growing network of artists, architects and scholars committed to preserving our heritage,” says Hernández. “And young people are beginning to show interest, too, recognizing that history isn’t something distant but something you can see in the window grills, the rooftops, and the voices of your neighbors.”

If you want to experience the old Puerto Vallarta, he suggests starting with an early morning stroll through the historic center. Cross the suspension bridge over the Cuale. Visit the market and taste its food. Climb the hill to the Matamoros lighthouse for a quiet moment of reflection. And, most importantly, talk to the locals — from the fishermen and the vendors to the abuelos on park benches.

“There, between words and silence,” he says, “you will find a true haven of Puerto Vallarta.”

As the city hurtles into its next chapter, shaped by foreign investment, real estate speculation and rapid expansion, these last bastions of Vallarta’s history serve as both anchor and guidepost. They remind us that heritage is not merely what we preserve in stone but also what we choose to carry forward in spirit.

Because without memory, even paradise can lose its way.

Meagan Drillinger is a New York native who has spent the past 15 years traveling around and writing about Mexico. While she’s on the road for assignments most of the time, Puerto Vallarta is her home base. Follow her travels on Instagram at @drillinjourneys or through her blog at drillinjourneys.com.

The post Where and why to find the last bastions of Puerto Vallarta’s history appeared first on Mexico News Daily

This is the Mexico I fell in love with. My real passion for this country wasn’t born on a beach in Cancún but in moments just like this: moments of breathless wonder, of heart-pounding thrill. It’s a feeling I’ve chased across the country, from the rugged slopes of Chihuahua’s Copper Canyon to the waterfall-studded region of Huasteca Potosina to the sultry jungles of Chiapas.

Mexico, teeming with life, is one of the world’s few megadiverse nations. Over 90 million hectares — an area larger than the United Kingdom and France combined —  are designated natural protected areas. There is so much to explore beyond the busy coastlines and tourist-popular spots.

In this edition of the Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 series, we venture into the untamed and explore six of Mexico’s best spots for outdoor adventurers. Pack your boots, and get ready to head into the wild!

Valle de Bravo: For mountain bikers and paragliders

This lakeside town, snuggled in pine-forested mountains two hours south of Mexico City, is far more than just a pretty Pueblo Mágico. Its unique geography creates reliable thermals, making it a bucket-list destination for paragliders and hang gliders. As the owner of Flumen Paragliding School shares with me, it’s one of the few places on Earth where it’s possible to fly all year round, thanks to the perfect weather conditions. 

Tandem paragliding, where you’re strapped to a professional pilot, requires no experience or specific fitness level. My 10-year-old daughter tried paragliding for the very first time in Valle de Bravo and could not get enough of it. Marko, her pilot, kept her safe, gave her clear instructions and made her feel confident throughout the flight. Upon landing, the first thing she said was, “Again! Again! I want to do it again!” 

But Valle’s appeal isn’t just in the sky. The surrounding mountains are crisscrossed with world-class mountain biking trails. Living for Bikes rents out high-quality bikes and has a bike park where you can practice technical descents and jumps. Lake Avándaro itself is a playground for sailing, water skiing and stand-up paddleboarding. The calm and peaceful waters, together with the warm air that blows in from the coast of Michoacán, bring in excellent gusts for sailing. 

Huasteca Potosina: For waterfall chasers 

The Huasteca Potosina is a natural playground for those who love splashing around dreamy cascades and swimming in jade green natural pools. This region in the state of San Luis Potosí is a crumpled landscape of limestone karsts carved by impossibly turquoise rivers. The result is a wonderland of hundreds of waterfalls, caves and crystalline pools perfect for a high-octane itinerary.

Prepare to get wet and your heart pumping! A typical week involves white-water rafting on the Class III rapids of the Tampaón River, rappelling down the 167-foot Minas Viejas waterfall and cliff-jumping into the cerulean pools at Puente de Dios. To tone it down a notch, you can hop on a boat to get up close to Cascada Tamul — it does not flow year round; be sure to check before booking — or go ziplining and skybiking over the Cascada Micos.

Those with kids can also spend a frolicking good time at the family-friendly Cascada Tamasopo, complete with Tarzan swings and jumping boards. Just avoid visiting during the Mexican holidays, and you should have the waterfalls all to yourself. 

El Potrero Chico: For rock climbers

Just a two-hour drive from the metropolis of Monterrey, the earth splits open to reveal a canyon of sheer, towering limestone walls. This is El Potrero Chico, Mexico’s rock climbing paradise. The dramatic, spired peaks and seemingly endless rock faces attract climbers from across the globe. In fact, a climber friend who travels the world for the best rock calls Potrero Chico one of her favorites — so much so that she makes a point to return for a climbing trip every year.

What makes El Potrero Chico special is the incredible concentration of high-quality climbing. There are over 600 bolted routes, from beginner-friendly slabs to legendary, 23-pitch multi-day ascents that take you thousands of feet off the canyon floor. The limestone here is known for its grippy, textured surface filled with natural pockets that create an intuitive style of vertical face climbing, making it perfect for beginners. 

Campsites like La Posada offer gear rentals and instruction, making a day on these famous walls achievable for almost anyone. Seasoned climbers often arrive with just a rope and harness. Once you arrive, everything you need — food, lodging and the climbs themselves — is within walking distance. Spend your days on the wall and evenings sharing stories with fellow adventurers; you’ll feel like a part of the climbing community within days.

Copper Canyon: For the back country hiker 

Sprawling across the northern state of Chihuahua, the Copper Canyon is a network of six interconnected canyons that are deeper — and in parts wider — than the Grand Canyon. This is the ancestral home of the Rarámuri (Tarahumara) people, best known for their legendary long-distance running abilities. I saw this firsthand when I met Rarámuri guide Lorenzo, one of the incredible athletes who has tackled the annual 80-kilometer Caballo Blanco ultramarathon, a grueling race that snakes up and down the canyon’s steep trails.

The best way to get around Copper Canyon is on board the El Chepe train, a scenic rail journey that weaves through rural towns and the imposing mountains, even teetering on the canyon rim in some parts. The rail line itself is an engineering marvel, stretching over 656 km of track and 37 bridges, it took over 60 years to build. While the train offers spectacular views, the real magic happens when you get off and hike into the canyon’s depths. 

Base yourself in a town like Divisadero and arrange guided hikes from there. Spend a day at the nearby Parque de Aventura Barrancas del Cobre, home to one of the world’s longest ziplines. You can also do a multi-day hike down to the remote canyon-floor villages of Batopilas or Urique. The journey from the pine forests to the subtropical riverbeds will help you gain a profound appreciation for the Rarámuri’s connection to this landscape. 

Loreto: For sea kayakers and divers

For underwater adventurers, the Baja California Peninsula is a superhighway for magnificent marine animals such as the whale shark and mobula ray. Here, the deep blue of the Pacific meets the rich waters of the Gulf of California, creating a theater for some profound wildlife encounters. It’s for good reason that world-famous oceanographer Jacques Cousteau named this “the world’s aquarium.”

The heart of Baja’s marine adventures lies in Loreto, a tranquil town and gateway to Bahía de Loreto National Park. Its calm, protected waters and chain of uninhabited islands make it a top-notch sea kayaking and scuba diving destination. If you’re looking to challenge yourself, sign up for the multi-day kayaking expedition, paddling from Isla Danzante to Isla Carmen. You’ll spend your nights camping under a star-dusted sky, miles from civilization, and your days gliding over crystalline waters, spotting dolphins, sea lions and, in winter, majestic blue whales.

Just two hours south of Loreto lies Magdalena Bay, an excellent spot to see gray whales from January to late March. From a small panga boat, my family had an incredible wildlife experience: a pair of curious mothers and their newborn calves approached our boat, close enough to be touched, lingering for almost 30 minutes. It was a transformative experience that truly connected us to these gentle giants. Note that these whale interactions are entirely whale-initiated and closely regulated to ensure no harm or stress is caused to the animals. 

Pico de Orizaba: For hardcore mountaineers 

Rising imposingly between the states of Veracruz and Puebla, Pico de Orizaba is Mexico’s highest peak and North America’s third highest. At a breathtaking 18,491 feet (5,636 meters), this dormant volcano offers a serious, non-technical mountaineering challenge that rewards climbers with unparalleled views stretching from the central highlands to the Gulf of Mexico.

But this is no casual day hike. Only experienced hikers with the right equipment and skills should attempt to climb this mountain, also known as Citlaltépetl. Summiting it is a two-day affair requiring proper acclimatization in a base town like Tlachichuca. It’s important to go with a reputable expedition company like 3Summits; they know the routes intimately and will manage the logistics and monitor for altitude sickness.

You’ll first start with a predawn alpine start, trekking up scree slopes before strapping on crampons and wielding ice axes to navigate the Jamapa Glacier. The final push to the crater rim is a grueling test of physical endurance and mental fortitude, but the prize — a 360-degree sunrise from the roof of Mexico — is a major achievement for any aspiring mountaineer.

What’s right for each type of traveler?

We’ve put together a table summarizing which destination would suit travelers based on their experience in Mexico. 

Beginner travelers are those with limited international experience; maybe this is their first trip to Mexico. Ideal for first-timers who prefer margaritas with training wheels. These travelers stick to well-trodden paths, mastering “¿Dónde está el baño?” while clutching a phrasebook. They thrive in destinations where guacamole arrives with optional spice and the hotel staff speak Google Translate.

Intermediate travelers are those with some international experience who can handle moderate language barriers and cultural differences. Ready to trade resorts for real-deal experiences, these travelers navigate cobblestone streets without face-planting. They’ve graduated to ordering “tres tacos al pastor” without pointing and can haggle for a sombrero in Oaxaca’s markets… but still overpay by 20%.

Advanced travelers are those with extensive experience navigating complex destinations independently. These wanderers treat Mexico like a choose-your-own-adventure novel written in Spanglish. They’ve adopted a street dog named Churro, debate the merits of different artisanal mezcals and know which mercado stall has the best tamales oaxaqueños.

The post Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 Guide: Outdoor and nature lovers appeared first on Mexico News Daily

If I’ve learned one thing in my adult years, it’s that there is always someone else out there with a similar dream — maybe you, too, have gotten lost in the idea of one day waking up a viceroy, marquess or an attaché. Now, you can. These colonial mansions — defined as such when built between 1519 and 1821 and featuring thick stone walls, high ceilings and classic central courtyards — offer a unique way to experience Mexico’s rich history. Like the hidden gems featured in a previous piece on Mexico’s authentic travel treasures, these properties let you step into Mexico’s aristocratic past without sacrificing that glorious rainfall shower.

Mexico City: Gran Hotel Ciudad de México 

This former 17th-century palace puts you in the heart of Mexico, within walking distance of the Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, and National Palace, where the current president resides. One of CDMX’s oldest houses, it was once the Palacio de los Condes de Miravalle, a name you may recall from my article Know your neighborhood: Condesa, or from James Bond’s brief appearance in the Mexican capital. The third countess from this family line owned the hacienda that eventually became the neighborhood of Condesa. The boutique’s breakfast patio features a captivating fresco by Manuel Rodríguez Lozano, and its rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Centro Histórico and a pool for the ultimate royal treatment.

Mérida: La Misión de Fray Diego 

Partially built in 1596 as part of the Temple of Nuns, this mansion harbors Mérida’s most tantalizing mystery: a rumored underground tunnel connecting the adjacent church to the cathedral. Legend claims cloistered nuns used this secret passage to move unseen through the city. While archaeologists have never confirmed the tunnel’s existence, the possibility adds intrigue to your stay in one of Mérida’s storied buildings. The hotel embraces its convent origins with meditation-worthy courtyards, religious relics, and graceful iron-wrought details.

San Miguel de Allende: Casa Blanca 7

Mexico meets Morocco in this 300-year-old house that defies colonial convention. Spanish arches frame Islamic tiles, Berber carpets warm stone floors, and inlaid furniture, such as four-poster beds, creates an Arabian Nights atmosphere in the heart of Mexico. With just ten suites, it feels like staying in a wealthy merchant’s private home. San Miguel’s well-to-do flock to Fatima 7, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, for Mediterranean dishes and vistas of the Templo de San Francisco, a view that perfectly captures this property’s East-meets-West magic.

Puebla: Mesón Sacristía de la Compañía 

Shop while you sleep at this 250-year-old treasure hunter’s paradise. Every antique in your room, from hand-carved armoires to colonial ceramics, comes with a price tag. The “hotel-antique gallery concept” turns browsing into an art form across just four rooms in the charming boutique situated on the famous Callejón de los Sapos. Sip coffee in the courtyard café while plotting which 19th-century Mexican artifacts will fit in your suitcase, or book a mole-making class in the colonial kitchen. The Mesón Sacristía is  retail therapy meets colonial history, perfect for travelers who prefer souvenirs with centuries of stories.

Guanajuato: El Mesón de los Poetas 

Breakfast with Octavio Paz, lunch with Federico García Lorca and cocktails with Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz? Bookworms will have a field day in any of the hotel’s 48 rooms, each of which honors a different poet through personalized décor and ambiance. This 18th-century mansion doubles as a living literature museum, where labyrinthine corridors echo the city’s winding alleyways. The hotel’s central courtyard, El Patio de la Palabra — The Patio of the Word — is the ideal setting to recite your latest literary masterpiece. The property also functions as an art gallery, so you’re essentially sleeping inside a cultural center where creativity flows as freely as the tequila.

Morelia: Hotel de la Soledad 

Tragedy, bankruptcy, war and resurrection: This hotel’s 290-year saga reads like a Mexican telenovela. Built in 1735, the project halted when the owners’ only son died suddenly, leaving behind a half-finished dream. The building survived Morelia’s near-abandonment during the War of Independence, multiple bankruptcies and a parade of desperate owners before its 2008 resurrection as a luxury hotel. Today it holds Small Luxury Hotels status and Condé Nast recognition, proving that sometimes the best stories come from the darkest chapters. The name “La Soledad” —  Solitude — perfectly captures the property’s epic journey from ruin to glory.

Querétaro: La Casa de la Marquesa 

According to local lore, Emperor Maximilian slept here, and that’s just the beginning. This baroque palace was built in 1756 as a love letter — or perhaps a pacification of sorts — from the Marqués de la Villa del Villar del Águila to his wife, complete with elaborate carved stonework and Moorish-inspired arches. The 25 suites overflow with period antiques, while balconies offer views of UNESCO-listed streets that remain as lively as imperial times. The palace chapel, grand staircases, and original paintings create an atmosphere so authentically aristocratic that you may confuse your travel partner with your personal jester.

Zacatecas: Hotel Mesón de Jobito 

Don Jobito died in room 107 and apparently never left. This early-18th-century inn embraces its haunted reputation with enthusiasm, and guests report flickering lights, moving objects and an invisible presence watching them around 4 a.m. The ghost of the former night watchman seems particularly fond of playful pranks, from mysterious phone calls to unexplained laughter echoing through the halls. Originally built for miners and merchants during Zacatecas’s silver boom, the mesón now caters to ghost hunters and thrill-seekers who want their colonial experience with a side of the supernatural. 

These colonial mansions offer more than just comfortable accommodation. They’re portals to Mexico’s aristocratic past, where you can live like royalty while experiencing Mexican history. Each property preserves centuries-old architecture and stories, providing the kind of immersive cultural experience that makes Mexico’s colonial heritage come to life.

Bethany Platanella is a travel planner and lifestyle writer based in Mexico City. She lives for the dopamine hit that comes directly after booking a plane ticket, exploring local markets, practicing yoga and munching on fresh tortillas. Sign up to receive her Sunday Love Letters to your inbox, peruse her blog or follow her on Instagram.

The post Colonial mansions in Mexico you can actually sleep in appeared first on Mexico News Daily