What to expect before, during and after arrival

On the plane, you'll be instructed to fill out 1 FMT/person (2-part, tourist visa) as well as a Customs declaration form. Present the FMT form as you pass through Immigration with your passport or birth certificate and picture I.D. The officer will stamp both parts with the number of days you can stay in Mexico (usually 30 days) and return the 2nd part to you, which you must have to leave Mexico. If you are traveling with a minor make certain you have proper documentation (ask your agent).

Reclaim your luggage and go through Customs where you will offer your declaration form and push the button and get a red or green light. Green means go. A red light means they'll search your luggage (usually quite casually unless you look suspicious).

If you are arriving at the Charter Terminal, often there are no taxis available so the van is the best option.

Another option that allows you to circumvent the hassle at the airport is for you to be picked up at the airport by a transfer service and driven directly to Playa del Carmen or Akumal. We can put you in touch with a company that performs this service. You can arrange for either one way or round trip service.

And, of course, you can rent a car at the airport.

Remember there are 3 airport terminals. One is primarily for scheduled International arrivals (Northwest, Continental, etc.) the second for National arrivals while the new terminal is for charters like Travel Charter and Apple Vacations (there are some exceptions).

The money exchanges at the airport offer very poor exchange rates. It's best to pay in dollars until you can locate an ATM or bank. Traveler's cheques denominated in US dollars and U.S. currency are easily exchanged. Do not bring Canadian currency or any other foreign currency for purposes of exchange. You generally get the best exchange rates by using an ATM card (know your PIN). And there are no lines. If you do patronize a bank or currency exchange house, it is a good idea to bring a pocket calculator.

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