We want to take our RV to Mexico. We hear conflicting stories about driving conditions. Is it safe for one unit to drive alone? Any information on diesel fuel? Just what can we expect?

Joe: You can expect to visit a foreign country. The people, their culture and their language will be different than yours. Go with the attitude of appreciating and enjoying the differences and you should have a wonderful time.

During the past few years Mexico has frequently changed its travel regulations. Before you leave home, obtain free brochures and up to date border crossing information by calling the Mexican Government Tourism

Our most recent information is that if you are traveling more than 12 miles into Mexico or staying no longer than 72 hours, each person will need a tourist card.

You'll also need a temporary import permit for each vehicle that will be taken more than 12 miles south of the border. Vehicles traveling within 12 miles of the border or on the Baja peninsula do not need this vehicle permit.

Do obtain automobile liability insurance issued by a Mexican insurance company. Liability insurance is a must and U.S. insurance is not recognized in Mexico.

You can obtain tourist cards, vehicle permits and Mexican insurance at major border crossings.

The roads in mainland Mexico are mostly two lane blacktop about 20 feet wide. Baja roads are closer to 18 feet wide. Road surface is frequently rough. Soft or non-existent shoulders is the norm. Toll roads are wider, smoother and faster but tolls can quickly mount up.

Gasoline is readily available at Pemex stations along the major roads and highways. Even so, it's always a good idea to travel on the top half of your fuel tank.

You'll find two grades of gasoline:

Magna Sin is unleaded gasoline with an octane rating equivalent to our 87 octane.

Premium is unleaded gasoline with a little higher octane rating.

Diesel, while also available throughout Mexico, is not necessarily found at every Pemex station. Diesel fuel, while good fuel, has been known to come from dirty storage tanks. Diesel owners should carry extra fuel filters.

Fuel is sold by the liter and payment is cash only. Some Pemex stations near the border may accept U.S. currency but the exchange rate won't be favorable. Be prepared to pay in Mexican pesos.

Vicki: Communication is not difficult in Mexico. You'll be surprised at how many Mexicans have a grasp of English. Do your part. Learn some survival words and bring a Spanish/English dictionary. "Por Favor", "Gracias" and a smile go a long way towards getting you what you want

Buy bottled water for drinking and to wash fruits and vegetables. It is available in even the smallest villages.

You can feel comfortable about eating in hotels or large, established restaurants. Food prepared by street vendors looks and smells tempting but keep in mind there are no regulations regarding sanitation procedures and most vendors lack refrigeration facilities.

Grocery shopping is a fun adventure in Mexico. Brands, sizes and some labels are different. This is, after all, a different country. The good news is you'll discover that you don't have to be able to read Spanish in order to know what you are buying. The pictures on the label will tell you what you want to know.

Beef is generally tougher than in the United States. Be sure to check the freshness of beef, chicken and seafood before you buy it.

Shop in the city markets for better quality vegetables. Fruit is wonderful. It is best to peel or wash (with bottled water) fruits and vegetables before eating them.

Look to the bakeries for fresh bread, rolls and pastries. Be sure to try the bolillos, a french style roll. You'll find fresh, hot, corn tortillas are made daily at the local tortilleria.

We are often asked if it's safe to go to Mexico. Our standard response is to ask if it's safe to remain in the United States. Crimes against people are fewer and less violent in Mexico. Apply the same sensible precautions in Mexico as you would in the United States. We are among the thousands of RVers who feel safe enough to return to Mexico year after year.

We urge first-time RV visitors to Mexico to go with an experienced Mexico traveler. Someone who has been there before, enjoys the people and is enthusiastic about going again. They'll share their knowledge and smooth the way. You'll feel more comfortable about taking future trips alone.

You might also consider the advantages of taking an RV caravan.
RV travel in Mexico provides you the opportunity to visit a foreign country, explore a different culture and learn a different language. All in the comfort and convenience of your home on wheels.