The attitude towards the LGBT community will vary as you travel throughout Mexico, just as it does anywhere else. On the whole, there is plenty to get involved in and a number of Mexico's cities have become big stops on the gay tourist trail in that part of the world. Expect a more welcoming environment in the bigger cities – attitudes in rural areas may be less openly tolerant.
Though English is fairly widely spoken in Mexico, it is important to pick up a couple of vital phrases in the local language. Particularly if you are looking for a certain bar or part of town, being able to understand the locals and make yourself understood can be absolutely key.
¿es este bar /barrio homosexual?
Is this bar / neighbourhood gay-friendly?
In certain cities, you may be keen to head for well known parts of town. In others, you may be keen to explore a little for yourself. Mexico, and its gay scene, is developing quickly and you could well find that the liveliest parts of town are not yet marked in your guidebook. If you're looking for a gay-friendly area, the easiest thing to do is converse with the locals in their own language. In most parts of Mexico, you will find the locals more than willing to help.
¿Dónde puedo alquilar una tabla de surf?
Where can I hire a surfboard?
If you're thinking about hitting the beaches in Cancun, consider getting your hands on a board. Playa Delfines and Mamitas are great surfing beaches which are both popular with gay tourists. Cancun has a lively gay scene and is a must-stop for anybody travelling through Mexico. Avenue Tulum is a great place to start if you're having trouble finding your feet.
¿Dónde están los cenotes más cercanos?
Where are the nearest cenotes?
In the Yucatan, finding cenotes is an absolute necessity. Offering a great chance to cool off in the searing Mexican heat, cenotes are also a thing of outstanding natural beauty. Asking any local in the Yucatan about cenotes is therefore likely to be high on your list of priorities and the Mayan Riviera has lots of history on offer. If you can compromise on the lack of nightlife, the region is well worth the visit.
¿Cuándo es el próximo día festivo público en Puerto Vallarta?
When is the next public holiday in Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta is a name you are likely to have heard several times before. The town has a well deserved reputation for being one of Mexico's most popular spots for LGBT travellers. While it's not often difficult to find some excitement in the bustling seaside town, public holidays are a time of supreme enjoyment. If your schedule can lend you only a few days in Puerto Vallarta, be sure to visit during a holiday for a true taste of all the city has to offer.
¿Desde dónde puedo tomar el barco?
From where can I take the boat?
Trips by boat from Puerto Vallarta make for a great day trip. Find your way along the coast to any number of secluded spots and see the beauty of some quiet Mexican towns. If you are looking for a brief escape from the excitement of the Puerto Vallarta itself, this is a great opportunity.
These translations are provided by EVS Translations-a professional translations company.