Crossing the border from Guatemala north in to Mexico is relatively painless. A stop at immigration is required and a change of transport may take up to an hour. A sizable market with food and cheap goods attracts Mexican and Guatemalan citizens as well as tourists. At the border several vendors will offer to change currency. Be aware of the current exchange rates and always try to use local currency. In Mexico, US dollars are widely accepted. Keep in mind, however, that if you are purchasing goods or services with dollars you will generally be charged at a 10:1 rate (Peso to Dollar) when the current exchange is actually about 12:1. Paying in pesos will save money time and again.
The trip from the border to San Cristobal de Las Casas takes about 3 hours. The terrain is mountainous and quite unlike what most would imagine when thinking of Mexico. The weather in San Cristobal is relatively cold in the winter and pleasant in the summer. Like Bacalar in Part 2, San Cristobal is a “Pueblo Magico” or magic village for the history, culture and colorful scenery of the city.
Once in San Cristobal, it is simple to find budget accommodations. Various hostels and hotels surround the central park. One room with two beds, a private bath and a shared kitchen at is about $250 MXN pesos ($21 US) a night for 2 people. Rossco Hostel is widely popular among young budget travelers and offers inexpensive dormitory rates and breakfast each morning.
The culinary options in San Cristobal are endless. If people-watching is what you love, stick closer to the main square. Bistros, cafes and high-end restaurants serve every kind of food imaginable and many have live music or dance lessons to entertain the crowds. A higher end meal may costs about $400 MXN pesos ($34 US) for two people but likely includes a bar drink, bread and a small desert. All this on a sunny patio with throngs of interesting people walking by. If budget food is what you want, walk a little further from the hubbub and little cafes can be found on every corner. Many smaller restaurants have dinners for as little as $30 MXN pesos ($2.50 US).
It easily takes two days to explore the city of San Cristobal. Comfortable walking shoes are a must when trekking from beautiful historical churches to parks. There is a large artisan market full of textiles, jewelry and souvenirs. Be ready to bargain with the vendors and always be on the lookout for great deals on silver and amber. Much of the amber in the region is mined in the mountains of Chiapas.
San Cristobal is popular hub for US and European citizens living abroad. One great place to meet expatriates living in San Cristobal is at the Revolution Bar. There is no shortage of adventure and nightlife in San Cristobal and the wonderful city warrants many repeat visits and possibly a month long stint.
The next part of the journey takes us to Palenque, home of the Mayan king Pakal, and yet another amazing collective of Mayan ruins.
Continued in Part 11
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