All the information provided below is intended as a guideline only. Information can range from accurate to anecdotal. Some of the answers were provided by allaboutcabo.com
Will I be able to use my credit cards? Can I get cash from the banks with my credit cards?
Yes, to both questions. All major credit cards (except Discover) are widely accepted. In restaurants, it is best to ask before ordering, not every business accepts credit cards, just as back home. All of the banks will give cash advances, most have ATM machines at their locations, for after hours cash. The Banorte Bank is located on the main street through town, on the corner of Juarez and Obregon. The ATM is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
What will the weather be like?
Nobody can predict the weather. If I could I certainly would not be doing what I am doing. The weather is very favorable throughout the year with the exception of the rainy season which is between August and October. You can check the current weather in Todos Santos by clicking here.
Will my cellular phone work in Mexico?
We have local cellular service. Some (very few) cellular services will allow you to roam in Mexico. Most cell phones will work, but they must be reprogrammed by the local service provider (Baja Cellular or Telcel). Prices are up to four times higher than the US or Canada. Remember to have it reprogrammed again before returning to the US.
How can I access the Internet to receive my e-mail?
There is Internet access available on one of our computers at the hotel. It is advisable to have a web based email account (i.e. hotmail) in order to send and receive emails while you are traveling.
How about driving in Baja?
One word comes to mind ...defensively. If you think you are a defensive driver redouble your efforts when driving here in the Baja. The "rules of the road" are loosely followed and anything can happen anytime. Be aware of livestock grazing near the edge of the road as they are very unpredictable and make a lousy hood ornament. Car rentals are available at the two airports (La Paz and San Jose) and in La Paz, San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas.
What about dangerous animals?
There are some animals which you should be aware of (before they are aware of you!). Most animals are generally reacting from fear or surprise and protecting their territory. In the desert you may encounter rattlesnakes, scorpions or black widows. However, there have been no reports of any casualties in recent years and if you are "aware" and act accordingly, you will minimize your risk.
Can I use my laptop computer to get my e-mail?
You can bring your laptop computer, you will have to contact the one local Service Provider that will provide you with temporary Internet access for your limited stay. If you are staying in a hotel, make sure your modem will bypass their PBX phone system. If your modem will not, there is hardware and software available that will handle that part of the problem for you. If you travel a lot and stay in hotels, this is something you should definitely have.
Can I buy Cuban cigars, and take them back with me?
Yes you can buy them, and yes, they are expensive. No, you cannot take them back to the US, but if you are returning to Canada it is OK. Be careful of counterfeits.
Can I drink the water?
In the hotels and most restaurants, you will get purified water. I would not drink the water from a private home or condo, unless you know there is a purification system installed. The water here is very pure, but the distribution system is not so perfect. Buy bottled water. Why not be completely safe!
Is it safe to walk around the town at night?
Yes, there is very little crime here. Use your common sense, and be careful. This applies only to Todos Santos and Los Cabos, the mainland of Mexico is another matter, altogether.
Can you tell me what the taxi rates are?
No, I can't, as they vary from taxi to taxi. It is best to check with the desk at your hotel. They should be able to tell you what the fare should be. Then check again with the taxi driver. Do this before you get into the taxi! Don't be afraid to bargain for a cheaper fare, especially if there are several in your party.
How will I know if I am getting a good deal on merchandise?
This is one question that nobody but you can answer. A good rule of thumb is, with street or beach vendors, always get at least a 30% discount, sometimes more. In most stores the prices are fixed, just as they are at home. If you are making large purchases or if there are several people in your party that are buying something, you can always ask for a discount. If you're happy with the price of something, then you are getting a good deal.
What about hospitals and doctors?
We have a nice new hospital, we have some very competent doctors. Many speak English. The equipment here is usually older and somewhat out of date, compared to what you are probably used to. The hospital is not equipped for severe trauma cases. Check with your hotel for the name of an English-speaking doctor, write their phone numbers down and carry them with you. Always check with your doctor if there is any doubt in your mind. Medical service here is nowhere near as sophisticated as in the US or Canada.
Are the beaches safe?
There are a few places to beware of. The beaches on the Pacific side (Todos Santos) can be very dangerous, especially in the summer, be very careful. One rule to keep in mind is to never turn your back on the ocean. Our swimming pool is a great place to do your swimming or just lounging. The main beaches in Cabo San Lucas, Medano Beach and Lover's Beach (bay side only, beware on the Pacific side) are probably the safest places to swim. The bays of Chileno and Santa Maria are usually safe, but be careful if there are any swells (usually summer). Because the water temperature is usually warm here most of the year (up to 90 degrees in late summer!), heading out for a short swim is a very fun way to get wet. When the waves get big, watch out. Probably the safest beaches for swimming near Todos Santos are at Playa Las Palmas (south of town at Km. 57), and Playa Los Cerritos (south of town at Km. 64). Even these two beaches are exposed to Pacific Ocean swells, so if there are large waves, be careful! Remember, there are no lifeguards here. During the summer there can be large swells, even on the Sea of Cortez. Be careful and buddy up, swim with a friend, always! Tell other people where you are going to swim and your expected return time.
If you have any further questions about Posada la Poza Restaurant and Hotel please contact us
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