kynickie Posted May 14, 2018 #1 Share Posted May 14, 2018 I am going to Yucatan and Cozumel. Do I need cash for anything? Taxi? Beach chairs? Buying water bottles ? Anyone have suggestions on if I do and how much. Do they take American Express? Thanks Kynickie Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
salty dingo Posted May 14, 2018 #2 Share Posted May 14, 2018 Everyone who caters to cruisers will be happy to take American dollars. Do not expect anyone to accept your Amex. As for how much, that is up to you. Find out how much your excursions will cost, plus tip, plus any shopping, bars, etc. Only you know how much is enough. If you run out, and you can find an ATM in port, you can always withdraw more. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kynickie Posted May 14, 2018 Author #3 Share Posted May 14, 2018 So you are saying I do need cash. You said they won't take amex what about master card or visa. I would rather use a card. But just wanted to know if I have to have some cash? Or if I can rely on credit card only thanks Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare Saint Greg Posted May 14, 2018 #4 Share Posted May 14, 2018 There may be places that take credit cards, I won’t use mine in Mexico unless it’s an emergency. I bring cash for each port and bring more than what I expect to spend. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
salty dingo Posted May 14, 2018 #5 Share Posted May 14, 2018 So you are saying I do need cash. Yes. If you go to Margaritaville or Senor Frogs, a major brand hotel, or a place like that, you won't have any trouble using a credit card, but most beach bars will be easiest with cash. You have a safe in your cabin on the ship, so you don't need to carry all your cash for the week with you. I would just take what you want to spend that day off the ship with you. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Barsnikel Posted May 14, 2018 #6 Share Posted May 14, 2018 Most all of the popular tourist restaurants in Cozumel will accept Visa and Mastercard. The local mom & pop shop isn't going to take credit cards, but everyone will accept US dollars. Pro tip : take small bills ($1, $5, $10's). If you take large bills, you'll end up paying more, and the change they give you will not be in US dollars. Negotiate the best price, pay exact amount or in small bills, and be sure your change is in US dollars Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chief93 Posted May 14, 2018 #7 Share Posted May 14, 2018 Please note that the ATM in Mexico will dispense pesos. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
riffatsea Posted May 14, 2018 #8 Share Posted May 14, 2018 I have never heard of getting change in USA $$s when paying for things in Mexico. I don't think that is typical at all! Most folks try to use their credit cards for large purchases but use cash for small ones. We rarely use our credit cards in Mexico unless we buy something as a souvenir that is pricey! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OCruisers Posted May 14, 2018 #9 Share Posted May 14, 2018 In Mexico it's so easy to take the US Dollar ... (y) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JohninDC Posted May 15, 2018 #10 Share Posted May 15, 2018 Taxis and all of the popular tourist spots will take US dollars -- many of the menu prices list dollars not pesos (both use the $ sign, so be aware). I prefer to use cash in Mexico and have never taken a taxi that accepted credit cards. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
blue_water Posted May 15, 2018 #11 Share Posted May 15, 2018 US$ are accepted anywhere but you may get a terrible exchange rate. Many restaurants and bars post their exchange rate, and 12:1 or 14:1 is not uncommon. The current exchange rate at an ATM or per your credit card bank is around 18.5:1. If spending a small amount that’s not a big deal. If planning major shopping use a debit card at a bank ATM to get pesos. As mentioned you can use a credit/debit card at beach clubs and most restaurants and bars but smaller places and vendors will require cash. Many do give US$ for change (or pesos if you prefer), you should ask first if a concern. We use pesos and debit cards exclusively while living in Mexico, on a day visit US$ are much easier of course. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sano Monte Posted May 15, 2018 #12 Share Posted May 15, 2018 For what it is worth: There are a couple of websites reporting that major banks in Mexico (including Citibanamex & BBVA) have been having recent issues with ATMs withdrawals and credit card payments. Rumor is that the Bank of Mexico’s SPEI interbank transfer system was hacked, but this is being denied. Either way it is something to keep in mind. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kynickie Posted May 15, 2018 Author #13 Share Posted May 15, 2018 Thanks to everyone for their advice. I am glad I asked because I did not know I needed to take cash. I see now that that is the best way. I will be taking singles fives and tens. I don't expect to spend much so won't be a big deal.just a few souveniers or bottle of water. thanks again Kynickie Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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