A couple of my friends decided that we wanted to get a little adventurous and try something different from the usual Europe trips so we are going down south of the border to Mexico city for the first time. None of us know much about the place and I was just wondering if anybody could provide any suggestions on places to stay at, things to see, nightlife activities, and any gotchas to look out for while we are out there. I've heard that dont ever take the green taxis (public cabs) in Mexico city.

Thanks for any suggestions and recommendations.

dont ever take the green taxis (public cabs) in Mexico city.

That's the first suggestion... take cabs from your hotel that your conceirge recommends (they are called "sitio" taxis).

second.. there's many things to do that you will need at least a few days..
first of all.. lodging.. it all depends on your budget and needs. there's the typcial Sheraton Maria Isabel strategically located acrross from the toursit zone (Zona Rosa) that is nice to walk around and relatively safe day and night. This zone has lots of entertainment to suit all lifestyles and budgets.

third rule.. don't carry anything you would miss.. carry minimal cash and be aware of your sorroundings..

now the fun parts..
there is an artsy area of town, which is fantastic.. spend a day here and be sure to visit the house of Frida Kahlo ... it's worth it.. and it's about 30-40 pesos (U$3-4)..

The downtown core, known as the Zocalo, is where the national palace and the main cathedral is.. these are worth seeing, and unless you are travelling on a holiday, the national palace is open (free) allowing one to view the many murals depicting the story of Mexico... The main cathedral across the street is huge and portrays an image of the riches of Mexico City ... and to dig right into history, besides the national palace you have a museam where they are digging up remains of palaces that existed over 2000 years ago.

The main street, known as (Avenida) Reforma, has two important sites opposite each other.. one is the main park know as Chapultepec and above sits the "castillo de Chapultepec" (castle of Chapultepec) which serves as a good lookout of Mexico city (along with a few dark clouds). Across from it is (in my opinion) one of the best museams depicting the history of Mexico and it's findings...

There's another area called Polanco, full of condo's and a couple streets have rows of restaurants and cafes (and nightclubs) to allow you to relax while listening to the locals.

near Mexico City you have to visit (a whole day excursion) the pyramids of Teotihuacan (about 1.5 hours in a tour bus).. the main pyramids are called the "sun" and the "moon" as they coincide with perfect straight angles of their rise and fall each day (along with the equinox). Be sure to bring plenty of bottled water (be sure the security tab hasn't been broken) and sandwiches as it's a long trip to the top (though you could always buy some junk food from the lady atop the Sun pyramid for a premium).

nightlife.. there's plenty.. in all areas of towns.. from your typical bar that you arrive between 11 p.m. and 12 midninight (around 12 - 12:30 the dance floor usually opens with a good display of lights and music).. some bars charge between 200- 300 pesos to get in (US$18 -US$28), though if you are able to make a reservation (if they answer the phone) you could avoid this cost by reserving a table with a specific bottle that you prefer to drink (Absolut, Bacardi Gold, Moet & Chandon, etc...) as it will last you more troughout the night.. though take into account you will be charged for the accompanied juice or cola drink that you want your drinks with .. But between a few people it will even out.. be prepared to leave a good tip for good service (as that's what the waiters live on)

depending on your time frame, you could also go 6 hours south to Oxaca, a city that is gorgeous and you'll end up eating your way through it!!

hope this little introduction helps.. let me know if what questions or what specifics you want.

btw, for a real adventure.. be at the zocalo on the night of September 15th (the national day when the President honours Mexico's hereos from the Presidential balcony).. it's a massive square, but definetly a true adventure..

I love this city and travel back every year.. though be patient as the "mañana" saying truly means tommorrow (or eternity) depending on who you talk to.... ;)

Excellent post sargento. Thanks a lot pal :)

Plenty of good info here so I'm going to digest on it for now. Thanks again.