All about the Two Fridas of Frida Kahlo

Perhaps the most famous self-portrait of Mexico‘s most famous painter, Frida Kahlo, is her work called “The Two Fridas”. Of all her self-portraits, this one stands out for representing in a very cold way two Fridas, each one with a different outfit, holding hands and intertwined through an artery that crosses their hearts. It is undoubtedly a painting worth analyzing. It could be said that the complexity of this work surpasses any of her other paintings, however, like all her self-portraits, this one also speaks about the feelings she felt about a very painful situation she was going through in her life.

All about the Two Fridas of Frida Kahlo

Deux Fridas

Like an optical illusion or a mirror, we can see, on the one hand, the Frida married to Diego Rivera, dressed in a traditional Mexican costume that honors her roots for which she was always proud. On the other hand, we can see a single Frida wearing a European style dress with white lace that marks a before and after her stay in Paris.

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Characteristics of Las dos Fridas

  • It was painted in 1939.
  • It is an oil painting.
  • It measures 173 centimeters wide by 173 centimeters long.
  • According to Fernando Gamboa, who was a very close friend of Frida Kahlo, her inspiration for the work came from viewing the paintings “The Two Sisters” by Theodore Chassériau and the painting “Gabrielle d’Estrées and One of Her Sisters” by an unknown artist.
  • It was in the artist’s custody until 1947, a few years before her death, and since 1966 it has been in the Museum of Modern Art.

Duality, symbolism and surrealism are intimately marked in this work, as well as pain, suffering and a host of hidden details that make this painting one of the most famous in the world.

Book your tickets in advance for the Frida Kahlo Museum

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the beautiful Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City by booking your visit in advance: an unforgettable moment guaranteed!

Here are several reasons to book your visits in advance:

  • Guarantee availability
  • Save money
  • Avoid queues

Are you passionate about the work of Frida Kahlo?

There is a wide selection of items dedicated to Frida Kahlo.

  • By purchasing one of these items, you can keep a souvenir of your visit.
  • You can also surround yourself with Frida Kahlo’s inspiration and creativity in your everyday life.
  • Don’t wait any longer and discover our selection of Frida Kahlo souvenirs now. You won’t be disappointed.

The hidden story behind Las dos Fridas

The expressionlessness in the faces of The Two Fridas was always characteristic of most of her self-portraits, along with a somber background that expresses the darkness in the depths of her being. Seated on a green piece of furniture and holding hands, two totally different Fridas who, without a doubt, cry out for understanding and freedom.

Sentimental situation

With this work Frida wanted to represent the great pain she felt for formalizing her divorce with Diego Rivera after returning from her six-month stay in New York and Paris. Although, a year later, they remarried. In the Frida dressed in a Mexican dress, we can see that in her hand is a small portrait of Diego Rivera when she was a child and from there an artery goes around her arm and reaches her uncovered heart, continuing its way through the right artery to reach the European Frida.

The opposites of her being

She represents “her other self”, her duality, as two Fridas existing in the same space and time, united by the blood that runs through their exposed hearts and connected by their arteries, as well as being holding hands to represent their rational union.

Dresses

On the one hand, there is the married Frida in her classic Tehuano dress that represents the woman with whom Diego Rivera had fallen in love. Several analysts also suggest that this dress in that Frida tries to represent her mestizo origin, since her mother was born in Oaxaca. While, in the Frida with the European lace dress, she tries to represent, on the one hand, her European descent from her father’s side, who was German. Also, her dress seems to be inspired by the wedding dress her mother wore to reflect the innocence of a woman. On the other hand, Frida lived the European life for a while and it is said that this stage of her life was the one that led her to paint herself in this way.

Hearts, arteries and other details

While the married Frida had in her left hand a mini portrait of Diego as a child, the right hand of the European Frida has surgical scissors that stop the flow of blood from the artery that joins them, however, the flow of blood drips and stains just above her pubic area on her white dress. It is believed that the stain on her white dress represents the multiple miscarriages the artist suffered because she was unable to have children due to the tragic accident she suffered in her youth that left her unable to procreate. In the single Frida we can also see that her heart is open and empty, wanting to represent what she felt about the loneliness of her bachelorhood. It is, without a doubt, a work worthy of admiration; detail after detail, with a harmony of colors that catches anyone’s eye and makes them feel what she felt when painting this work.

If you want to know more about this famous painting, write to us.

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The Chinkultic Cenote – An oasis in the Chiapas jungle

Mexico is a country made up of several states, thus delimiting a vast territory. This last one contains several paradisiac places distributed a little everywhere in the country like the archaeological zone of Chinkultic which hides also many secrecies but also magnificent places like the cenote of Chinkultic.

The ruins of Chinkultic and its cenote : Oasis in the jungle of Chiapas

Cenote Chinkultic

This cenote attracts many tourists every year in Chiapas because of its location but also because of the treasures it contains. So, do you want to know the secrets of this site and its cenote? Do you wonder what the Chinkultic is? What is the particularity of its cenote and how to access it? Find the useful answers in the following lines…

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The archaeological site of Chinkultic: presentation

Located in the south of Mexico, in the state of Chiapas, the archeological site of Chinkultic is a true masterpiece of architecture because its construction was made in such a way that the blocks of stone could adapt to the topography of the ground. Part of the Lagunas de Montebello National Park located in the middle of the jungle, this site was founded around the 3rd century by the Maya. It is certainly not the most visited Mayan site in Mexico compared to the Mayan city of Palenque but it has an importance not to be neglected especially because of its shape, its different parts and especially its cenote.

Note that the site is divided into four parts A, B, C and D:

  • Part A, the highest, contains the acropolis or El Mirador and from there you can practically see the whole site and even the mythical cenote.
  • Part B houses the magnificent Plaza Hundida of 57 square meters and three pyramidal platforms.
  • In part C, there is a large platform and a ball game. In this area you will also find the largest number of stelae.
  • Finally, in part D, there is another platform with large stones and a pyramid base.

In addition, the site contains about 200 structures, ancient remains such as ceramics (Plumbate Tohil), 38 stone stelae that represent the rulers of this site and sculptures with hieroglyphic inscriptions.

If you want to bring back some souvenirs from Chiapas after your visit, check out our article “What to bring back from Mexico”. And if you didn’t have time to do some shopping during your trip, check out our store for souvenirs from Mexico!

The Cenote of Chinkultic: reasons to visit this mythical place

When we talk about the cenote of Chinkultic, there are three words that come to mind immediately: magnificent, heavenly and spectacular! It is located in the middle of the jungle and comes from the lake Tepancuapan and the lake Chanujabab which are twins and connected by a tributary crossing the archaeological site. This cenote gives the name of the site because Chinkultic means “staircase cenote” in Mayan language.

Once at the top of part A, you can have an exceptional view of the cenote. The cenote of Chinkultic is sacred. It has a dark appearance, the water is dark in color and the guardians of the area mention that offerings of all kinds have been found, including humans, since the Mayan era.

This very quiet place is therefore a used setting to breathe fresh air while enjoying an impressive view. It is clear that this mythical and beautiful place is well worth the detour; a landmark recommended to adventurers, swimmers and nature lovers.

Finally, if you want to go there, note that the archaeological area of Chinkultic is located in the municipality of Comitan is located about 45 minutes from the area. The opening hours are from 8am to 5pm. Do not hesitate to go to this fabulous site during your next stay in Mexico!

When to go

Temperatures in this region can be hot and humid all year round, so the best time to visit depends on your climate preferences. The dry season runs from December to May, which is the best time to visit if you prefer to avoid the rains and enjoy a more pleasant climate for exploring the ruins. The rainy season is from June to November, if you prefer a cooler climate, you might prefer to visit at this time of the year. Also, if you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to plan your visit outside of school vacations and avoid weekends.

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Vous rêvez de découvrir les ruines de Chinkultic, mais vous ne voulez pas dépenser une fortune en billets d’avion ? Utilisez notre comparateur aérien pour trouver les meilleures offres pour vous rendre à Tuxtla Gutiérrez (la ville la plus proche de Misol-Ha) et rendre votre voyage au Mexique possible ! Trouvez un billet d’avion bon marché ici : réservation en ligne, annulation flexible et billetterie électronique – réservez votre place dès aujourd’hui !

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How to get there

📗 The roads in Chiapas are winding mountain roads, so be careful on your journey. There are several ways to get to the Chinkultic ruins from the city of Palenque, in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. We recommend reading our Guide to Driving in Chiapas if you decide to rent a vehicle there. Here are some options:

Palenque to Chinkultic

  • By car: You can rent a car in Palenque and drive to the ruins. It takes about an hour and a half to get there. This is a convenient option for those who want to have some freedom of movement.
  • By Bus: There are regular buses that run between Palenque and San Cristobal de Las Casas. It is necessary to take a bus to San Cristobal, then a bus to Comitan de Dominguez, then you can take a cab to Chinkultic. It is important to check the bus schedules and routes before you leave.

San Cristobal de las Casas to Chinkultic

  • By Car: You can rent a car in San Cristobal de las Casas and drive to the ruins of Chinkultic. It takes about 2 hours to get there.
    By Bus: There are regular buses that run from San Cristobal de las Casas to Comitan de Dominguez. It is necessary to take a bus to Comitan and then a cab or private vehicle to Chinkultic. It is important to check the bus schedules and routes before you leave.r.

Additional route information 

  • If you are using GPS, simply search for “Chinkultic” 
  • Please note: Be sure to load the map on your phone first and do not make any changes afterwards, as there is no signal on the road.
  • The road is safe, but there are many turns. It is recommended not to drive at night on Chiapas roads.
  • This is not always the case, but there can be blockages from people in the indigenous communities, who put a rope in the middle of the road to ask for money. We recommend that you bring some coins with you. For more information on these tolls and how to react, read our Guide to Travel Safety.

Book your rental car in Mexico

Find the best rental car for your trip to Mexico through our partnerships with the best site to book your car: Discover Cars. They offer competitive rates because they search all the major car rental companies and find the best price.

Access the best destinations in Mexico

Do you want to explore Mexico in an economical and comfortable way? Use Clicbus! With this online booking service, you can plan your bus trips around the country with ease and take advantage of the best rates available.

Costs

Entrance to the park and opening hours

  • The place is open to the public for an entrance fee of 30 pesos (about $2 / £1,40) per person from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. On holidays and Sundays, the entrance is free.

Our Tips

There are a few tips to follow to make your visit to the Chinkultic ruins as enjoyable and informative as possible:

  1. Plan your visit in advance: Make sure you have enough time to explore the ruins and find out about opening hours and entrance fees.
  2. Wear comfortable shoes: The Chinkultic ruins are located on uneven terrain and it is important to wear shoes that allow you to walk easily.
  3. Bring water and snacks: There are no restaurants or food stands near the ruins, so make sure you have enough water and food to last you through your visit.
  4. Bring Sun Protection: The Chinkultic ruins are in a hot and sunny area, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
  5. Bring a flashlight: The electrical infrastructure is not developed in the ruins, so a flashlight is useful for finding your way around the ruins at night or in case of a power outage
  6. Respect safety rules: It is important to respect the safety rules in effect at archaeological sites and not to touch or damage structures or artifacts.
  7. Hire a guide: If possible, hire an experienced local guide to show you the best parts of the ruins and provide information about the history and culture of the area.

Buying travel insurance

Even the best-planned trips can be affected by the unexpected. But what will happen before or during your trip that travel insurance could help you with? Unforeseen events could disrupt your travel plans and cost you your vacation.

Accommodation 

There is no accommodation available directly at Chinkultic, as it is an ancient archaeological site. There is no lodging on site and it is not permitted to stay overnight in the ruins. 

It is possible to find accommodations in the nearby towns of San Cristobal de Las Casas, Comitan de Dominguez, Palenque, and other towns near these tourist sites . There are options for all budgets, ranging from upscale hotels to hostels and campgrounds. 

It is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment. It’s also important to follow the safety rules and guidelines of the accommodation owners or managers. If you would like to read our complete guide to accommodations in Chiapas, with options for every budget, click here.

Find the best hotels

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Where to eat?

The Chinkultic ruins are an ancient archaeological site located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico, and there are probably no restaurants nearby. It would be best to bring food and drink before visiting the ruins to avoid any problems with refueling. It is important to follow the rules at archaeological sites and not consume any food or drink inside the protected areas. Read also: Mexican gastronomy in Chiapas

Do you have any questions about Chinkultic Cenote? Write to us!

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Misol Ha Waterfall : Guide to visit this unique waterfall

The Misol Ha waterfall is a 30-meter waterfall located in the middle of the majestic jungle of Chiapas. The place is very small, but the landscape is really beautiful. The waterfall, the trail, the cave and its natural pool make this place a must-see destination in Chiapas.

Misol Ha : Our guide to visit this unique waterfall

Vue de la cascade de Misol Ha de coté

The name Misol-ha comes from the Ch’ol and Mayan language and is interpreted as “waterfall”. It is one of the largest waterfalls in Chiapas and Mexico.

Because of their proximity, you can visit Misol Ha and the Agua Azul waterfalls on the same day. Ideally, we recommend that you take a full day and enjoy both places to the fullest. Also read: Our guide to the must-see waterfalls in Chiapas.

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What to do at Misol Ha Waterfall?

Admire the waterfall

What makes Misol Ha Waterfall unique is that it is surrounded by abundant vegetation and when it falls, it forms a huge pool bounded by the limestone rocks native to the area. Curiously, the pool is an almost perfect circle and the waterfall falls in the middle of the pool, nature never ceases to amaze us! In this area, you can see many wild animals, especially the famous howler monkeys. If you arrive, you will surely see whole families of this animal, so representative of the jungle of Chiapas, among the trees.

A little anecdote: It was in this fascinating waterfall that the movie “Predator” was filmed with Arnold Schwarzenegger, because it was the ideal place to represent the typical landscape of the tropical jungle.

Book your visit to Misol Ha waterfalls in advance

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the magnificent Misol Ha waterfalls by booking your visit in advance: an unforgettable moment guaranteed in an exceptional natural setting!

Here are several reasons to book your visit in advance:

  • Guarantee availability
  • Save money
  • Avoid waiting in line

Walk along the waterfall

On the left, there is a small path that surrounds the pool and will take you behind the waterfall. This part of the waterfall is worth a visit, as your view and perspective of the place will change completely. It is also a very good place if you want to take pictures. Besides, the breeze from the waterfall is refreshing! 

At the end of the path, there is a small cave that you can visit. Inside, you’ll discover another waterfall and a small stream that meanders along the cave, and you’ll also find lots of bats hanging on the cave walls. There is an additional charge of $10 pesos for entry, but this is a deposit for the flashlights loaned to visitors.

Bathing in the natural waterfall

It is usually quite warm in the Chiapas rainforest, even in winter. From experience, nothing is more exotic and appealing than swimming in this natural pool lost in the middle of the jungle! So don’t forget your bathing suit. If you’re a little afraid to dive in, you should know that local lifeguards are always on hand to watch over visitors.

All along the pool, the water is crystal clear, and it is possible to walk on the rocks without any problem. The pool can be quite deep, reaching up to 20 meters in some places. If you are not comfortable with swimming, you have the possibility to rent life jackets on site.

When to go

Best time: It is very hot all year round, but from November to February the weather is much more pleasant.

Rainy season: Avoid going from June to October, with the rain, you can’t swim in the waterfalls, and the water from the rains dyes the waterfalls a coffee color.

High season: If you don’t like crowds, avoid long weekends or vacations, especially at Easter.

Access the best destinations in Mexico by plane

Do you dream of discovering the Misol Ha waterfalls, but don’t want to spend a fortune on airfare? Use our airline comparison tool to find the best deals and make your trip to Mexico possible! Find cheap airfare here: online booking, flexible cancellation and e-ticketing – book your seat today!

Flight cancelled or delayed? Claim your compensation

Mexico Flight Tip: Have you experienced a flight delay and don’t know how to get compensation?

We recommend the services of Flightright to help you! Flightright guides you through the process and takes care of all the details so you can get the refund you deserve quickly.

How to get there ?

📗 The roads in Chiapas are winding mountain roads, so be careful when driving.

  • We recommend reading our Guide to Driving in Chiapas if you decide to rent a vehicle there. 

Palenque to Misol Ha

📍 Misol Ha is located 20 kilometers from Palenque. 

🚌 The bus ride takes about 40 minutes by bus in Collectivos at about $90 pesos (about €3.50) per person. Note that the road is very winding and bumpy between Palenque and Misol Ha!

Just take the bus to Ocosingo, which leaves every 45 minutes from a stop located one and a half blocks from the ADO station, and ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance of Misol Ha park.

Ocosingo to Misol Ha

📍 Misol Ha is located 100 kilometers from Ocosingo. 

🚌 The bus ride takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes in Collectivos at about $90 pesos (about €3.50) per person. 

Just take the bus that takes you to Palenque, which leaves every 45 minutes, and ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance to Misol Ha Park.

Tuxtla Guttierez to Misol Ha

📍 Misol Ha is located 250 kilometers from Tuxtla Guttierez. 

🚌 The bus ride takes about 6 hours. You have to pass through San Cristobal de las Casas, then Ocosingo or Palenque. 

From Ocosingo, you need to take one of the collectivos that run every 45 minutes until about midnight to Palenque, and ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance to Misol Ha Waterfalls Park.

San Cristóbal de las Casas to Misol Ha

📍 Misol Ha is located 200 kilometers from San Cristóbal de las Casas. 

🚌 The bus ride takes about 5 hours. You must pass through Ocosingo or Palenque before you get to Misol Ha. 

From Ocosingo, you need to take one of the collectivos that run every 45 minutes until about midnight to Palenque, and ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance to Misol Ha Waterfalls Park.

Additional information about the routes 

  • If you are using GPS, just search for “Cascada de Misol Ha“. 
  • Please note: Be sure to load the map on your phone beforehand and do not make any changes afterwards, as there is no signal on the road.
  • The road is safe, but there are many turns. It is recommended not to drive at night on Chiapas roads.
  • This is not always the case, but there can be blockages from people in the indigenous communities, who put a rope in the middle of the road to ask for money. We recommend that you bring some coins with you. For
  • more information on these tolls and how to react, read our Guide to Travel Safety.

Book your rental car in Mexico

Find the best rental car for your trip to Mexico through our partnerships with the best site to book your car: Discover Cars. They offer competitive rates because they search all the major car rental companies and find the best price.

Access the best destinations in Mexico

Do you want to explore Mexico in an economical and comfortable way? Use Clicbus! With this online booking service, you can plan your bus trips around the country with ease and take advantage of the best rates available.

Costs

Entrance to the park

  • The entrance to the park costs $20 pesos (about one $1/£0,8)
  • Visit to the caves: $10 pesos (about $0.50 / £0,45)
  • Toilets: $5 pesos (about $0.20 / £0,18)
  • Showers: $10 pesos (about $0.50 / £0,45)
  • Internet access: $10 pesos per hour or $35 pesos every 12 hours (between $0.50 / £0,45 and $1.50 / £1,32/)
  • Lifejacket rental for the day: $70 pesos (about $3 / £2,65 )

Guided tour

In low season, starting from Palenque, the tour costs $260 pesos (about 10 $ / 8,83 £). Entrance tickets to the park are included and Misol Ha is also visited.

Our advice

  • You can also get there via tours. The disadvantage of tours is that they allow you to enjoy only a short time in each place (between 30 minutes and 3 hours).
  • If you choose to go with a tour operator, we recommend that you do it from Palenque, because from San Cristobal it is more than a 5 hour drive and the prices are higher.
  • Come with a bathing suit and swimming shoes. With the walking and the heat, it would be a shame not to enjoy the bathing in the waterfalls!
  • The area is very large, so don’t stay in the first areas of Misol-Ha, where there are many people arriving, but rather continue to explore the area.
  • There is no phone signal, so you better put your phone on the airplane mode.
  • If you (really) need the internet, the locals sell prepaid cards by the hour. It’s not the best debit in the world, but it can help you out.
  • Take enough cash, as there are no ATMs and no one accepts credit cards here.
  • Although there are local lifeguards guarding the area for swimming, the pool is very deep. If you can’t swim very well, you have the option of renting a life jacket.
  • On-site costs can increase in the high season, such as long weekends and vacations, especially at Easter.
  • Misol Ha is part of the 12-day tour we recommend for visiting Chiapas. Read our article here.

Buying travel insurance

Even the best-planned trips can be affected by the unexpected. But what will happen before or during your trip that travel insurance could help you with? Unforeseen events could disrupt your travel plans and cost you your vacation.

Accommodation 

  • Cabins: In the ecotourism center, there are cabins from $250 pesos (about $10 / £9 ) per night.
  • Ocosingo: We recommend the charming town of Ocosingo, only 1.5 hours from the park! 
  • Palenque: Another option is to stay in Palenque and come and go the same day. You will find posadas from $200 pesos (about $8 / £7 ) per night. We recommend the El Panchan campground!

If you would like to read our complete guide to lodging in Chiapas, with options for every budget, click here.

Find the best hotels

Easily compare and book the best hotels in Mexico through our partnership with Booking. Flexible online booking and cancellation and e-tickets.

Booking.com

Where to eat?

The ecotourism center of Misol Ha has its own restaurant. The menu costs about 100 to 200 pesos.

Food and drinks are also allowed, so you can bring your own food and picnic, just make sure you don’t forget a bag and bring back your trash.

  • Also read: Mexican food in Chiapas

Now you know everything you need to know about Misol Ha! If you want to know more, write to us!

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All you need to know about Mexican skulls

The skull and crossbones, also called “calavera” in Spanish, representing a human skull, is typical of Mexico. A festival is even particularly dedicated to death, where many skulls are used as decorative elements. Far from being macabre, during this festival, Mexicans, in order to make this holiday significant, remember their dead by organizing festive meals and activities such as the construction of altars. In Mexico, the dead also have their own special day, just like Valentine’s Day, to be celebrated just like the living. This is a tradition that Mexicans still honor today. Do you want to know more about this mythical skull, its origin and its use? This complete article will tell you absolutely everything!

All you need to know about Mexican skulls

Calaveras

Mexican skulls are recognized around the world as an integral part of Mexican Day of the Dead culture. Find out why in the following lines!

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Mexican skulls are a symbol of the cultural traditions celebrated in Mexico on the Day of the Dead. While to some they may seem Machiavellian, to Mexicans they represent happiness in the afterlife. In Mexico, the Day of the Dead is celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. It is usually a big colorful party, full of flowers and food, celebrating the lives of those special people who have left this world. The most important and representative character of this important day are the Mexican skulls, also called catrinas and if you want to know what a catrina is and what its origin is, in this post we will tell you everything you need to know about them. If you want to find the typical Mexican atmosphere, we also recommend you to visit the Tienda Alma Latina store.

The specifics of calaveras

Mexico has some very original stories, such as that of the skulls that this country honors so much. Regarding the origin of the Mexican skull, it is not just a skull, it is actually much more than that. During the time of the different pre-Columbian civilizations, the use of skulls would come directly from an ancient Aztec custom. Since prehistoric times, the skull has been an image that alludes to pre-Columbian societies and cultures. One of the most prominent representations was the tzompantli, a form of wooden support in which were placed the skulls of prisoners of war or individuals who had been given in sacrifice to the gods. It should be noted that ancient civilizations such as the Maya probably believed that there was indeed an afterlife. Thus, the tzompantli was used to give offerings to Mictlantecuhtli, their god of the underworld. Maintaining a good relationship with this power was essential. Indeed, it was he who led the soul into his domain in peace. If he wished, he could retain a soul in his empire for several years.  When the Spaniards settled in Mexico in the sixteenth century, they did away with the native religion and human sacrifice. But nevertheless, the Mexicans kept their tradition of the skull and crossbones as a sign of consideration for their deceased.

Meaning of the skull and crossbones

An important notion to keep in mind, Mexican skulls are not at all significant of the sadness of death. In fact, it is not a literal tribute. The emphasis is rather on remembering the moments of happiness and joy that their dead have known despite the fact that they are no longer in this world. So, the goal is to immortalize the spirit of joy of living that the dead had. Thus, the heads of the dead are customarily decorated with various accessories that recall what the dead enjoyed. This custom has created a strong bond among the Mexican people during the celebration of their “Dia de los Muertos”.

The use of the skull

The skull and crossbones, in addition to its commercial use as a staple for the Day of the Dead, has also been remade in many forms including sculptures and paintings sold as souvenirs or displayed in museums for tourist visits. On the other hand, to show more consideration and love for the deceased, tattoos are made on the body of the person wishing to be remembered. The image speaks for the dead person. The Mexican skull tattoo often has different positions. We can see them on the forearm, on the back, on the calves, sometimes even on the feet. The Mexican skull tattoo is very significant because it has several important details.

What is a catrina and what is its origin?

Catrinas were born from a simple drawing in the 19th century, when Mexico was going through the greatest political crisis of all times. Due to the situation that the country was going through, many Mexican cartoonists began to create drawings with a satirical humor, such as José Guadalupe Posada, who was the first to draw Mexican skulls.

This type of drawings were published in the most popular newspapers in Mexico, such as “El Socialista” and “Hijo de Ahuizote”. The drawings were the cartoonists’ way of expressing the feelings of the people of the time. Specifically, the cartoons critically showed how the high societies of the country were impoverishing the population more and more and they represented this through different drawings of skulls. Each cartoon told different stories, which talked about social classes, politics and how they differed from each other.

At that time, skulls did not represent the symbolism of today, but they became more and more popular and thanks to two important engravings, they were much more recognized until they became what they are today.

The engravings that popularized the Mexican skulls

In 1973, a drawing was made on a metal surface that represents a strong criticism of garbanceros. Specifically, the garbanceros were those indigenous people who sold chickpeas and wanted to look like Europeans, thus denying their culture and origins. The drawing represented a skeletal woman, dressed in a hat of French origin with a prominent ostrich feather, it was called “La Calavera Garbancera” (the Garbanceros’ skull).

Later, it was Diego Rivera who named the calavera garbancera as a catrina. He painted a mural entitled “Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central” (Dream of a Sunday afternoon in the Alameda Central) and depicting a skull dressed in an outfit with a feather stole. At that time, people from high society who dressed elegantly were called “Catrín” and that’s where the name of this new catrina made by Diego Rivera, the husband of the super famous Frida Kahlo, comes from.

From that moment on, the catrinas were designed as a mockery of the living and the dead of the upper social class. Currently, this work is on display at the Diego Rivera Mural Museum in Mexico City.

Produits dérivés des têtes de mort mexicaines

What do Mexican skulls mean today?

There are an infinite number of skulls painted with very different colors and patterns that make everyone notice them immediately, wherever they are.

All this play of clothes and colors of skulls reflects that we are all going to die and that, therefore, we should not be afraid of death. Mexican skulls are made from sugar cane or clay and are used as an innocent and harmless decoration to represent death in a much more joyful way, to remember the dead without sadness and that is why the skulls are always painted with a smile. On the other hand, this tradition also encompasses the ancient Aztec culture, since the skulls were used to pay tribute to Mictecacihuatl, known as the goddess of death.

Nowadays, people, especially women, paint their faces like catrinas on Mexico’s Day of the Dead and parade to celebrate the event.

Day of the Dead Expressions

  • “Se lo llevó la flaca”.
  • “Estiró la pata”.
  • “Ya se patateó”.
  • “Se lo llevó la calaca”.

And like these, you can hear many other expressions when a person dies in Mexico. person dies in Mexico. You have probably seen the famous Disney movie called “Coco”. In it, shows beautifully what the Day of the Dead is for the Mexican people and we can clearly see how the and we can clearly see how the catrinas take control of the movie from beginning to end.

Did you enjoy learning about the origin of Mexican skulls and what they represent today? We hope you now have a much broader knowledge of these Mexican traditions.

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Travel to Chile: 5 places to discover off the beaten track

Known as the longest country in the world, Chile is renowned for its diverse landscape and rich cultural heritage. It is a destination that attracts nature lovers and adventurers at heart. If you are planning a trip to this Latin American country, you should know that it is full of surprises.

Travel to Chile : 5 places to discover off the beaten track

To help you plan a trip off the beaten path, here is a selection of authentic places to discover in Chile.

Sommaire

Queulat National Park

Created in 1983, this national park is located less than 200 km south of Chaitén and about 160 km north of Coyhaique. Its name means “the melody of water” in the language of the Chono people and it is one of the main protected areas of the Aysén region.

However, this park has the particularity of being relatively uncrowded and gives you the opportunity to do some wild hiking. Queulat National Park is one of the secret places to see in Chile and you can also go rafting or rent a kayak.

Punta Pite

Located 85 km from Valparaíso, Punta Pite is a set of stone paths, bridges and steps that stretches for 1.5 km. These stones seem so organic that they give the impression of having always been there and of having been created by nature itself. This is actually one of the works of Teresa Moller, a Santiago-based landscape architect and designer.

Therefore, Punta Pite is a path built around stone that should not be missed during an authentic stay in Chile. Moreover, the stairs that merge into the cliffs offer an original and pleasant walk along the Pacific Ocean.

Quintay

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Valparaíso, go about 40 kilometers south of the city to Quintay. It is a charming fishing village that is particularly worth a visit for its whale museum. The museum is located in the Ballarena, which was once a place where whales were butchered until 1967.

If you plan to spend a few days in Valparaíso, consider planning a day trip to one of the few villages on the coast, including Quintay. You’ll even have the opportunity to swim on the small sandy beach, take a boat ride with the locals or camp in a secluded cove.

Laja Falls in Chile

Among the destinations not to be missed during an authentic stay in Chile, there is the Laja Falls. These are four waterfalls located in the Biobio region in the center of the country and are located next to the old Pan-American Highway. You can get close to the waterfalls and feel the dew on your skin.

If you are planning a road-trip in Chile, you will have the possibility to sleep in the equipped camping areas. These are located near the river, or you can always stop for a picnic.

Pan de Azucar National Park

More and more travelers are being seduced by a road trip in South America and Chile is one of the most popular destinations. Indeed, the length of the country and its roads in good condition give particularly the desire to try the experience. Among the most popular places in the north, there is the Pan de Azucar National Park and its surroundings.

Considered an unusual wonder of Chile, this protected area is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the wilderness and completely disconnect from the world. Although it is little known and little developed, this natural reserve is a desert by the sea. It will give you the opportunity to meet cormorants, penguins and many other marine species.

Now you know everything you need to know about 5 places to discover off the beaten track in Chile! If you want to know more, write to us!

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Agave & Tequila: Our guide to the best tequilas

Tequila is an alcohol that has withstood the challenges of time, fashion and gastronomy, turning every moment into a memorable flavor, but how do you know which tequila is the best? It is a protected designation of origin drink, which means that tequila can only be produced in agave plantations in certain regions of Mexico, including Jalisco, Michoacán, Tamaulipas, Nayarit and Guanajuato. There are more than 1377 registered tequila brands from Mexico as of 2022.

🍸 Agave & Tequila: Guide to the Best Tequilas

Vue d'un champs d'Agave au Mexique

Selecting the best tequila can be a daunting task, there are many characteristics (humidity, flower, altitude, species) to consider when it comes to choosing the appropriate bottle for each occasion, each case and each taste.

In this article, you will find a selection of the best tequilas from Mexico with the best value for money, which are supposed to be excellent purchases, the best affordable tequilas, the best tequilas from Mexico in our opinion. And if you want to get the best tequilas from Mexico, go to our online grocery store of products from Mexico or to our grocery store specialized in products from Latin America Tienda Alma Latina

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The best tequila brands in 2022, our opinion and their prices

Defining a list of the best tequila brands you should buy is not an easy task as there are many high quality brands with different characteristics and prices.

In general, the best tequilas in the world are, without a doubt, the Mexican ones and more specifically those made in Jalisco, a city located northwest of Mexico City. This famous Mexican liquor has different price ranges depending on several variables such as: The name of the brand, the years in the barrel where they are aged, the artisanal process performed, the main ingredients, the barrels in which they are aged, the filtering process and a long etc.

Our list of the best brands of tequilas can be the following, although it will depend on the particular characteristics and your taste: Gran Patrón, Casamigos, Jose Cuervo, Herradura, Casa Dragones, El Jimador, Sauza or Tres Generaciones (the top line of Sauza) or Don Julio.

Our opinion on the Don Julio brand

Perfect for any occasion, as a gift for example, Don Julio is more expensive than other brands, but it is a sure value. If you’re thinking of giving gifts to your loved ones during your trip to Mexico, this is a great option. The taste will certainly bring back happy memories shared over a drink during your stay.

The varieties of the Don Julio brand

Don Julio Blanco

Using the finest blue agave plant and a centuries-old distillation process, Don Julio Blanco Tequila is tequila in its truest form. It is the basis for all other variants of the brand. Commonly referred to as “silver” tequila, its crisp agave flavor and citrus notes make it an essential component of a variety of innovative drinks, including margaritas.

3.8/5

Don Julio Reposado

Aged for eight months in American white oak barrels, Don Julio Reposado tequila is golden amber in color and has a rich, sweet aftertaste, the essence of the perfect tequila left to rest in barrels.

4.6/5

Don Julio Añejo

 Rich, characteristic and wonderfully complex, its flavor achieves the perfect balance between agave, wood and vanilla notes. To be enjoyed neat in a sip or simply on the rocks.

4.4/5

Don Julio 70th Anniversary Añejo

Don Julio 70 tequila brings together the sweetness of a Blanco tequila and the complexity of an Añejo tequila for a totally unique tequila experience. Aged eighteen months in American white oak barrels, then carefully filtered to bring out its crisp agave flavor.

4.2/5

Don Julio 1942

Praised in cocktail bars, restaurants and nightclubs, Don Julio 1942 tequila is the choice of gourmets around the world. The brand creates only small quantities and leaves it to rest for a minimum of two and a half years. Don Julio 1942 tequila is made by hand in honor of the year in which Don Julio González began his tequila-making journey.

4.1/5

Don Julio Real

The pinnacle of Mexican highland agave, skillfully aged for three to five years in American white oak barrels, Don Julio Real Tequila is the crown jewel of the Don Julio brand. Don Julio Real is one of the few Extra-Añejo tequilas available on the market. Its rich aromas and flavor make this unique tequila the perfect choice for celebrations.

4.7/5

Don Julio Reposado Double Cask

Don Julio Reposado Double Cask Tequila is finished in casks used in the making of Buchanan’s blended Scotch whisky, resulting in a remarkable depth of flavor with honeyed agave notes and hints of tropical fruits and spices, with light peat and chocolate malt notes.

3.8/5

Don Julio Reposado Private Cask

Don Julio Reposado Private Cask Tequila has been aged for 10 months in a single barrel, hand selected by our master distiller. The Private Cask edition has a nuanced flavor that varies from barrel to barrel. This tequila is bottled at 85.4 proof, for those who sip it responsibly.

3.9/5

Don Julio Reposado Double Cask Lagavulin Edition

This innovative limited edition tequila is inspired by the creative spirit of Don Julio to take the art of tequila making to new heights. This Don Julio Reposado Double Cask Tequila is a unique expression of the traditional Reposado version finished in casks that previously contained Lagavulin Islay Single Malt Scotch whisky.

3.5/5

Our opinion on the brand Herradura

With nearly 150 years of experience in the distillation of tequila, this company was bought in 2006 by the house of Brown-Forman and the brand is now distributed worldwide. It has nevertheless kept its original quality and flavor. Bonus if you go to Mexico, you can visit the factory and gardens of origin, located in the city of Amatitán, on the Herradura Express.

The varieties of the Herradura brand

Herradura Silver

Herradura Silver has a sweet agave and subtle oak notes. The extended aging process creates a light straw color with a unique and robust aroma of baked agave, vanilla and wood that leaves a smooth and fresh mouth feel.

4.1/5

Herradura Reposado

Herradura Tequila introduced the Reposado to the world in 1974. Left to rest for 11 months, Reposado has notes of cooked agave, vanilla and butter. This extra time spent resting in American white oak barrels creates a smooth, soft finish with a slight spice flavor.

3.5/5

Herradura Añejo

Blending modern and traditional distillation techniques, Herradura Añejo rests in American white oak barrels for 25 months – 13 months beyond industry standards. The result is a remarkably smooth, amber-colored liquid that melts on the tongue leaving notes of baked agave, toasted oak and dried fruit.

3.6/5

Herradura Ultra Añejo

The Ultra Añejo has subtle notes of baked agave, caramel and honey with roasted almonds and a smoother finish.

4.3/5

Herradura Directo Del Alembique

Here, the barrel aging process is dispensed with to preserve the true flavor of the tequila. Bottling directly from the still gives the liquid a crystal clear color. The end result is a smooth, complex tequila with a lasting, subtly sweet aftertaste with notes of sweet agave, green pepper, citrus and a hint of herbs and spices.

4.2/5

Herradura Double Barrel Reposado

Herradura Double Barrel Reposado is the product of a new two-step aging process. The first involves letting the tequila rest in white oak barrels for 11 months. It is then transferred to new barrels for an additional 30 days. This creates a liquid with notes of cooked agave, vanilla, allspice, clove and oak.

3.6/5

Herradura Selección Suprema

Aged for an incredible 49 months in American white oak barrels, Herradura Selección Suprema is our most premium ultra-refined tequila. The additional aging creates an extremely rich dark amber colored tequila with notes of baked agave, spice and flowers. Exceptionally smooth and complex, Selección Surprema has a long-lasting, subtly sweet aftertaste.

4.2/5

Our opinion on the brand José Cuervo Tradicional

The story of this Mexican tequila begins in 1758, when José Antonio de Cuervo received permission from the King of Spain to plant Mexican blue agave on his land and produce tequila. Even before Mexican independence, he was already a tequila legend. The company established a distillery in 1812 and is now the oldest active distillery in Latin America.  Since then, they have made millions of barrels of quality tequila at this distillery, and you can taste the centuries-old tradition in every drop.

Our pick: Arnaud is particularly fond of the Margarita cocktail, and the José Cuervo Especial Gold is his favorite for this cocktail.

The varieties of the brand José Cuervo Tradicional

José Cuervo Tradicional Plata

The José Cuervo Tradicional Plata was born to create a new tradition. Product of an exceptional artisanal process, which has awarded it the “Best Silver” prize at the Diosa Mayahuel Awards for 2 consecutive years. Jose Cuervo Plata is the ideal tequila for preparing incredible recipes, as it stands out for its clarity and flavor of citrus spices and the characteristic tones of natural agave.

3.3/5

José Cuervo Tradicional Reposado

Jose Cuervo Reposado celebrates the legacy of the first tequila producers who made history since 1795. Considered one of Mexico’s finest tequilas, this reposado spends an average of 6 months in white oak barrels and has an aroma of cooked agave, fruit and herbal notes, with hints of olive.

3.6/5

José Cuervo Tradicional Añejo

Tradicional Añejo is aged in charred American oak for at least a year, then finished in single malt Irish whiskey barrels for a rich, complex flavor and a remarkably smooth finish.

3.3/5

José Cuervo Tradicional Especial Silver

La Rojeña’s master distillers have crafted this blend, Tradicional Especial Silver, unique and balanced to bring out the tones of agave, caramel and fresh herbs in its flavor profile.

3.6/5

José Cuervo Tradicional Especial Gold

Legend has it that Cuervo Gold was used to make the very first Margarita. Cuervo Gold is a blend of Reposado and young Tequilas. The result is a well-balanced, smooth tequila that makes the perfect margarita, frozen or on the rocks.

3.3/5

José Cuervo Tradicional Reserva de la Familia

This tequila is among the elite of the Cuervo family’s private collection. Each bottle is made using only blue agave harvested at its peak maturity after seven to twelve years of cultivation in the field, and aged in French and American oak barrels for a minimum of three years.

3.6/5

José Cuervo Tradicional Aniversario

An ultra-aged, 100% blue agave tequila created from a perfect selection of raw materials to commemorate the tradition and history of Jose Cuervo. The agaves used to produce it are harvested at full maturity and come from a single growing field. The tequila is aged in French and American oak barrels. 

3.9/5

Our opinion on the Patrón brand

The varieties of the Patrón brand

Patrón Silver

Patrón Silver is the perfect ultra-premium spirit. Using only the finest 100% Weber blue agave, it is handcrafted in small batches to be smooth, soft and easily blended. This crystal clear tequila with fresh agave flavors and citrus notes is a favorite of tequila connoisseurs around the world.

3.9/5

Patrón Reposado

This is a nice change for tequila connoisseurs who want a little more complexity and sweetness of flavor. Aged in barrels for over two months, it combines the fresh, clean taste of the Silver version with the woody flavor of the Añejo. It’s great sipped on its own or in a high-end cocktail. Like its brand counterparts, the bottles are made of recycled glass and hand-numbered.

3.9/5

Patrón Añejo

It is a delicate blend of uniquely aged tequilas. The spirit is aged in small white barrels for at least 12 months. Similar to winemaking, each vintage is carefully blended to produce a smooth, distinctive flavor. 

3.6/5

Roca Patrón Silver

This is an ultra-premium handcrafted version created in small batches entirely from the centuries-old tahona mill process. This sophisticated spirit is specifically finished at 90 proof to create a crisp, robust flavor with complex notes of sweet agave.

3.9/5

Roca Patrón Reposado

This drink is also available through the tahona process. After distillation, the drink is aged for five months in American bourbon barrels and specifically finished at 84 degrees to create complex and balanced notes with a flavor of oak and sweet agave.

3.6/5

Roca Patrón Añejo

Still an ultra-premium handcrafted beverage, also produced in small batches. After distillation via the tahona mill process, it is aged for fourteen months in American bourbon barrels and specifically finished at 88 proof to create complex and balanced notes with a sweet and slightly earthy flavor.

3.9/5

Gran Patrón Smoky

It honors traditional production methods dating back hundreds of years. To create this typically smoky flavor, the heart of the agave, the piña, is roasted in underground stone pits at the distillery. The cooked agave is then slowly ground with a volcanic stone tahona wheel before the juice and agave fibers are placed together in pine wood fermenters and distilled in small capacity copper stills.

3.9/5

Gran Patrón Platinum

Like all of the brand’s drinks, it is made from the highest quality Weber Blue Agave plants grown in the highlands of Jalisco. The agaves in this distinctive drink are hand selected for their high sugar content. The liquid is distilled three times and then rested in vats, making it extraordinarily smooth and full-bodied. It has citrus notes and a light oak finish.

3.9/5

Gran Patrón Piedra

This extraordinary extra añejo is made entirely from the Tahona process. After distillation, it is meticulously aged for over three years in new American and French casks for a deep mahogany color and a sweet, subtle aroma of fruit, fresh mushroom, light citrus and toasted oak.

3.9/5

Gran Patrón Burdeos

This handcrafted luxury añejo is made from the finest 100% Weber blue agave from Jalisco. It is produced in a combination of new American and French barrels and aged for a minimum of 12 months. It is then distilled again before being plunged into vintage Bordeaux barrels from the finest French chateaux (Burdeos means Bordeaux in Spanish). The taste offers notes of oak, light agave, vanilla and raisins. 

3.9/5

Patrón Xo Cafe

Xo Cafe is an extraordinary blend of ultra premium Silver Tequila and the pure, natural essence of fine coffee. The taste is dry, not sweet like most low water content coffee liqueurs. Xo Cafe is excellent for sipping, as a premium cocktail ingredient or as a unique and delicious dessert topping.

3.9/5

Patrón Citrónge Mango

Citrónge Mango is an extra fine premium reserve mango liqueur. No artificial flavors or chemical enhancers are ever added. Citrónge is excellent on its own or as an addition to a premium cocktail. It also adds a unique flavor to gourmet recipes. Citrónge makes the finest, most authentic, smoothest and most delicious margaritas.

3.9/5

Patrón Citrónge Orange

Like Citrónge Mango, Citrónge Orange is a liqueur, but this time of extra fine orange of premium reserve. 

3.9/5

Patrón Citrónge Lime

Citrónge Lime is an ultra-premium liqueur made from the highest quality Persian lemons grown in Mexico. Citrónge Lime is crisp and smooth, with the well-balanced, juicy and sweet flavor of premium lime, and a refreshing finish. It is excellent mixed in a wide variety of cocktails, or as a delicious addition to sauces and desserts.

3.9/5

Patrón Añejo 7 Años

This exquisite tequila was aged in French casks for seven years, producing limited quantities of an incredibly rare spirit. To commemorate this exclusive release, it is presented in a replica of the very first mouth-blown glass bottle and stopper.

3.9/5

Patrón Añejo 5 Años

Same principle as for the Añejo 7 Años, except that the Añejo 5 Años is aged in French casks for five years.

3.9/5

Our opinion on the Centenario brand

This tequila has been made in Jalisco for over 150 years. The creator of the company was Lázaro Gallardo, the first Mexican Tequilero master.

The varieties of the Centenario brand

Centenario Plata

Same principle as the Añejo 7 Años, except that the Añejo 5 Años is aged in French casks for five years.

3.6/5

Centenario Reposado

This exquisite tequila was aged in French casks for seven years, producing limited quantities of an incredibly rare spirit. To commemorate this exclusive release, it is presented in a replica of the very first hand-blown glass bottle and stopper.

3.6/5

Centenario Añejo

Same principle as for the Añejo 7 Años, except that the Añejo 5 Años is aged in French casks for five years.

3.6/5

Our opinion on the brand 1800

It has a simple, straightforward flavor and taste, as well as a fragrance and smoky, herbal notes that only the real blue agave plant from Mexico can give. It is perfect for preparing spectacular cocktails, such as the famous margarita.

The varieties of the brand 1800

1800 Plata

Made from 100% Weber Blue Agave – aged for 8-12 years and harvested at its peak. The liquid is double distilled and a special selection of white tequilas are blended for added complexity and character. The result is a premium tequila with a sweeter and more interesting flavor than most others on the market. The clean, balanced taste with notes of sweet fruit and pepper is perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, in shots or in cocktails

3.9/5

1800 Coconut

Infused with a natural ripe coconut flavor. With its slightly sweet, medium-bodied tropical flavor, this versatile spirit is delicious on the rocks and also tastes great mixed with pineapple juice.

3.9/5

1800 Reposado

Made from 100% Weber blue agave aged 8 to 12 years and is aged in American and French barrels for no less than six months. This rich liquid has notes of butterscotch, sweet spices and a touch of smoke, which is imparted by the finishing process. Perfect mixed in a cocktail or on the rocks.

3.9/5

1800 Añejo

Using 100% Weber Blue Agave, picked at its peak – 8 to 12 years old – Añejo is aged in French oak barrels for at least 14 months. Its finish is described as spicy and well rounded with flavors of toasted oak, vanilla and butterscotch. This deep, luxurious tequila is ideal for sipping.

3.9/5

1800 Cristalino

A crystal clear drink with deceptive depth, presented in a stunning crystal clear bottle. Since the release of the first tequila añejo on the market in 1800 Añejo, 1800 continues to drive innovation with this beautiful contradiction of a spirit. 1800 Cristalino is aged in American and French oak barrels for 16 months, after which the liquid is married and finished in port wine barrels for an additional 6 months.

3.9/5

1800 Milenio

After a long and delicate aging process, the extra aged tequila is aged for a short period of time in French Cognac oak barrels creating a balanced, smooth and unique flavor with notes of vanilla, red fruits and cinnamon. A perfect expression of the land that nurtures the Weber Blue Agave and the hands that make its final liquid, Milenio is considered the best representation of the roots of 1800.

3.9/5

1800 Colección 

Only produced and marketed during the best years of production, Colección is one of the rarest tequilas in the world. Each edition of this additional anejo tequila is paired with a custom designed decanter by a renowned artist. Multidisciplinary artist, Gary Baseman, provided the vision for the most recent edition.

3.9/5

Our opinion on the brand Sieste Leguas

With over 60 years of experience in tequila production, it’s easy to see why this company is loved and trusted by local experts. They produce five types of tequila.

The varieties of the brand Sieste Leguas

Siete Leguas Blanco

After a long and delicate aging process, the extra aged tequila is aged for a short period of time in French Cognac oak barrels creating a balanced, smooth and unique flavor with notes of vanilla, red fruits and cinnamon. A perfect expression of the land that nurtures the Weber Blue Agave and the hands that make its final liquid, Milenio is considered the best representation of the roots of 1800®.

3.6/5

Siete Leguas Reposado

In the foreground, aromas of cooked and raw agave, light herbal and citrus notes and with the freshness of ripe fruit, similar to the aromas present in white tequila

3.6/5

Siete Leguas Añejo

Sweet aromas of vanilla, light aromas of nuts, raisins, prunes, quince, orange, peach and red fruits.

3.6/5

Siete Léguas Single Barrel

Aromas of apple, quince, cherry, peach, walnut, almond, macadamia nut and dried fruits such as prune, blueberry and raisin.

3.6/5

Siete Leguas Antaño o Extra Añejo

Aromas of apple, quince, cherry, orange, peach, red fruits and seeds like walnuts, almonds and macadamia nuts and dried fruits like prunes and raisins.

3.6/5

10 things to know about tequila

  1. According to the Tequila Regulatory Council, tequila is a liquor made by distilling the fermented juice of the blue agave plant.
  2. The popularity of the drink increased after Mexico’s independence, when Spanish spirits did not easily reach the country.
  3. Since 1974, the drink has been protected by the Denomination of Origin, which means that only those that meet all the requirements established in the official standard can be called tequila, whether they are made by authorized producers and in certain municipalities of the states of Jalisco, Guanajuato; Michoacán, Nayarit and Tamaulipas.
  4. The great stars of Mexican cinema, such as Pedro Infante or Jorge Negrete, made it part of their stories in the movies, although they enjoyed the drink in a shot, when it is advisable to first take a small sip and let it flow in your mouth to accustom your palate to the drink, and then continue with another glass. Lemon and salt have become popular as a way to make the taste less strong for foreigners. Experts suggest drinking dry. 
  5. According to the Mexican norm that governs the drink, it can be marketed in five presentations, either by national or foreign bottlers: White, Young, Rested (which must be aged for at least two months in oak barrels), Aged (one year of aging in barrels of up to 600 liters) or Extra-Old (three years in barrels of up to 600 liters).
  6. There are two types of tequila, those made with 51% agave tequilana Weber and the rest of the sugars come from the piloncillo or sugar cane, or those of superior quality made with 100% tequilana Weber.
  7. There is a tequila discovery circuit around Penjamo, Guanajuato, where there is also a designation of origin.
  8. In 2006, UNESCO declared the agave landscape and the old industrial facilities of Tequila, a World Heritage Site.
  9. While in Mexico, if you are in Mexico City, visit the Tequila and Mezcal Museum, located in Plaza Garibaldi in Colonia Centro. There you can learn more about the drink and even taste it.
  10. In Guadalajara, take the Jose Cuervo Express Train to the town of Tequila where you will see the process of making Mundo Cuervo. On the way, enjoy tequila-based snacks and drinks (cost per person starts at $1350 pesos, or about 50€).

How to order tequila like in Mexico?

Tequila has maintained its worldwide reputation as a festive drink to be enjoyed with lime and salt, or in a smooth cocktail, such as Tequila Sunrise.  But there are other ways to order tequila! We tell you how to order tequila when you’re in Mexico!

In Mexico, there are more popular and sophisticated ways to drink tequila. Tequila is a member of the Mexican agave family of spirits, just like mezcal, raicilla, bacanora and many other spirits! It is a protected denomination since 1974, and interestingly, its production is limited to five regions of the country, the main one being Jalisco. Tequila is made exclusively from a single variety of agave, the Tequilana Weber, or Mexican blue agave.

Derecho

Ordering tequila, or a derecho as it is called in Mexico, is still the most popular way to order this drink, even in Mexico. Nevertheless, before choosing and ordering tequila, it is important to have a clear idea of what you are looking for beforehand. Just as there are single malt scotch whiskies and blended whiskies, there are also different types of tequilas. As a general rule, premium tequila is made from 100% agave, while less refined tequilas are made from 51% agave mixed with sugar cane juice.

Four different ages

The aging process of tequila also creates different types of alcohol, and tastes. 

Blanco or Plata Tequila

Blanco or plata (white or silver) tequila is the unaged or barely aged spirit before being bottled. This harder and bolder tequila is best paired with olives or Oaxacan cheese at an aperitif.

Reposado

The Reposado, or rested tequila, is aged in barrels for at least two months, which tends to give it a fruitier note. It is an ideal tequila to drink with or after a plate of seafood. 

L’Añejo

The Añejo (vintage tequila) is aged for at least a year and has complex, nutty or cherry aromas. 

Extra Añejo

Extra Añejo (extra aged) tequila is one that has been aged for a minimum of three years in barrels. This category captures the flavors and aromas of the wood, while the alcohol softens gently. Tequila lovers often like to pair this premium grade with a dessert such as chocolate mousse or honey caramelized apricot.

Tips

Tequila should never be chilled but always stored at room temperature. The best spirits can be enjoyed on their own, although a spoonful of mineral water can enhance the experience.

¿Cómo beber tequila como un mexicano?

El tequila sigue conservando su reputación internacional como bebida de fiesta, pero los mexicanos llevan mucho tiempo disfrutando de una forma más relajante y refrescante de beber su bebida nacional: en una gran olla de barro. Los tarros de cantarito suelen estar llenos de un potente cóctel de tequila y zumo de frutas, y son especialmente populares en el estado de Jalisco, donde se fabrica la mayoría de los tequilas.

La bebida está disponible en los bares de la mayor parte del estado e incluso se vende en los puestos de los vendedores ambulantes que viajan a los pueblos tradicionales productores de tequila en Jalisco. Los visitantes del pintoresco pueblo mexicano de Amatitán, en el corazón del país del tequila, suelen darse el gusto de comer cantaritos durante su viaje, y la vasija de barro vacía es un recuerdo apropiado de su visita.

Desde 1997, el bar El Guero de Amatitán sirve la tradicional bebida a los turistas sedientos. Con vistas a las onduladas colinas alineadas con innumerables hileras de espigados agaves azules, el bar al aire libre se encuentra en un lugar ideal para disfrutar de un tequila al estilo mexicano. El cóctel se prepara llenando la jarra con hielo, zumo de lima y pomelo, un refresco de pomelo espumoso llamado Squirt y una generosa dosis de tequila. La mezcla efervescente se remueve con un cuchillo y se añade un toque de sal para compensar la acidez.

En el bar El Guero, los clientes pueden comprar cantaritos de diferentes tamaños. La más pequeña tiene capacidad para medio litro de la bebida, mientras que la jarra extragrande requiere que los clientes la agarren con las dos manos para llevarla a su mesa.

Algunos visitantes beben directamente de los recipientes pequeños, pero para los más grandes es imprescindible una pajita. El local ofrece una amplia gama de tequilas, desde las variedades más duras de blanco hasta los extra añejos que han pasado al menos tres años en barricas.

Sin embargo, aunque los tequilas de lujo han crecido en popularidad, tanto en México como en el extranjero, la mayoría de los clientes optan por las alternativas baratas y alegres.

De hecho, el uso de marcas de alta gama parece un poco fuera de lugar con el cóctel. El objetivo de un verdadero cantarito no debe ser disfrutar de lujosos sabores, sino compartir experiencias memorables. Es realmente una bebida para tomar con un grupo de sus amigos más cercanos.

Mexican Cocktails

Visitors to Mexico should avoid ordering tequila Sunrises, or even margaritas. The most interesting and delicious tequila cocktail (in our opinion!) is the Blood Red Vampiro, a mixture of tequila, grapefruit soda and sangrita – a spicy blend of orange juice, red chile, salt and lemon. The drink comes from the village of San Luis Soyatlán, in the western state of Jalisco. Every weekend, tequila lovers come from far and wide to enjoy the town’s iconic cocktail. Another popular way to order tequila is in a large clay pot. These cantarito jars, normally used in kitchens, are filled with a potent mixture of tequila, lemon and sparkling grapefruit soda.

18 things you didn’t know about tequila

As an iconic drink and one of Mexico’s biggest exports, tequila is ubiquitous in bars (and homes) across the country and the world. However, despite its fame and glory, here are probably 20 things you probably didn’t know about this authentic Mexican drink.

  1. Tequila can be mixed to make other drinks than the classic margarita that everyone knows. A popular Mexican combination is tequila and a grapefruit-flavored fizzy drink, which is known interchangeably as tequila or paloma. If you’re more of a Coca-Cola person, then order a charro negro – tequila and Coca-Cola.
  2. If you prefer tequila shots, you should be careful in Mexico. Tequila has a reputation in other countries for being a shot alcohol, but that’s really not the case; good tequila should be sipped and savored.
  3. Also, don’t ask for salt and lime. You can if you really want to, but it’s not a typical request in Mexico.
  4. For tequila to be considered a tequila, it must be produced in the Jalisco city of the same name, Tequila. If you buy tequila that is not from the state of Jalisco, it must be legally marketed as “agave spirit”.
  5. Speaking of agave, this is the plant from which tequila is made. Specifically, tequila can only be made from the blue agave plant. You probably recognize the blue agave plant by its spiky appearance, but did you also know that tequila is made from – not the leaves – but the heart of the plant, otherwise known as the piña?
  6. However, tequila does not have to be 100% blue agave to be classified as tequila. Instead, the limit between tequila and, of course, not tequila, is 51%. A blue agave content of less than 51% does not qualify as tequila. Purists insist that only a 100% blue agave tequila will do, while the average layperson probably couldn’t even tell you the difference between that and the mixto versions (those with 51%-99% blue agave).
  7. A jimador is the person who harvests, by hand, the agave piña. You might think that the word jimador sounds unusually familiar – well, that’s because there is a brand of tequila called Jimador.
  8. However, Jose Cuervo remains the most famous and important brand of tequila in the world. A real person, Jose Antonio Cuervo, was the first man to get a license to sell tequila and his business quickly expanded; in the 19th century he sold 10,000 barrels in Guadalajara alone.
  9. There are many varieties of tequila. Blanco or Plata, which is the least aged version; Reposado, aged for 2 to 12 months; Añejo, which is left to rest in barrels for 1 to 3 years; Extra Añejo, which is left to rest for 3 to 5 years. The longer the tequila has been aged, the darker it usually becomes, as it takes on the color of the barrels. But before aging can even begin, it takes at least eight years for the agave plant to reach full harvest maturity. This means that problems with the growth of agave plants can cause tequila shortages much later, especially because these plants are very particular about the conditions in which they grow.
  10. After opening a bottle of tequila, you should drink it within two months. If you leave it open any longer, the agave may lose its distinctive flavor profile.
  11. The word tequila is said to come from a Nahuatl word. It is said to mean “the place where plants are harvested”.
  12. Surprisingly, drinking tequila has health benefits. It can help reduce cholesterol levels, stress levels (for obvious reasons) and can apparently help stimulate insulin production. In addition, it is useful for colds and stomach problems.
  13. Tequila is a huge symbol of Mexican national pride. Tequila sales are said to explode around the time of Mexico’s Independence Day in mid-September. Yet, despite this, the majority of tequila is exported and sold in the United States. Primarily consumed in the states of Florida, California and Texas, it is estimated that approximately 24 million Americans drank tequila at some point in 2015.
  14. Bing Crosby is said to be responsible for introducing Herradura tequila to the American market. Apparently, he liked the brand so much that he helped import it north of the border.
  15. Perhaps that taste in tequila explains why the most expensive bottle ever sold cost $225,000. The six-year-old tequila in the platinum and white gold bottle was supposedly worth only $2,500.
  16. Tequila can be turned into artificial diamonds. Researchers at UNAM have discovered that tequila can be turned into diamonds, which can then be used not for your next diamond necklace, but in the computer industry.
  17. The Aztecs reportedly discovered the predecessor to what we know today as tequila when lightning struck an agave plant. The piña was then cooked and they discovered the sweet, fermented juice it contained. It is said that this is where tequila was eventually developed, although it is anyone’s guess how true this story is.
  18. Finally, National Tequila Day (in the United States, at least) is July 24! Have a shot or two of tequila in the name of Mexico.

Do you have questions about tequila and agave from Mexico? Planning a trip to Chiapas? Send us a message!

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🚗 Our guide for renting a car in Mexico in 2022

When traveling in Mexico, it can be more convenient and economical to rent a car than to take cabs or public transportation, or even to fly, especially if you want to visit remote locations. However, if you do not make a proper comparison, it can be counterproductive for your budget in Mexico, because the type of car you want to rent, the levels of rates at the time of rental and additional fees that may be applied, such as insurance or airport access fees, make in our opinion a big difference between what you can cost the service from one establishment to another.

Car rental in Mexico in 2022

Louer voiture au Mexique

If you’re wondering whether or not you should rent a car in Mexico, then in our opinion, this is the article for you! Find out all the tips and everything you need to know about renting a car in Mexico in our guide to renting in Mexico!

Sommaire

Book your rental car in Mexico

Find the best rental car for your trip to Mexico through our partnerships with the best site to book your car: Discover Cars. They offer competitive rates because they search all major car rental companies and find the best price.

Book your rental car in Mexico

Find the best rental car for your trip to Mexico through our partnerships with the best site to book your car: Discover Cars. They offer competitive rates because they search all major car rental companies and find the best price.

Is it dangerous to rent a car in Mexico? 

Renting a car anywhere in the world carries a bit of risk. It is important to drive carefully and be prepared for the different traffic regulations, as this is a foreign country. Speed limits are clearly marked and road signs are easy to follow. Many travelers are afraid of being stopped by corrupt police, but if you can indeed get arrested, follow our tips during your trip by looking at our article: Is Mexico Dangerous? Should you be afraid to travel to Mexico in 2020?

To make a long story short, no, you won’t be kidnapped and carjacking is not common – these are things that uninformed people tend to say without having any real knowledge. Also, places like Playa del Carmen, the city of San Cristobal de las Casas in Chiapas or the city of Tulum in the Yucatan for example are extremely safe. Do not panic if you are stopped by the police as random patrols are quite common in some areas. They may ask you a few questions, such as where you are going and where you are from, and let you go. Unless you are obviously speeding, driving while on the phone or breaking other rules.

Requirements to rent a car in Mexico

To rent a car in Mexico, the following initial requirements must be met:

  • Official ID: Present a valid official ID such as your passport.
  • Driver’s License: Present a valid driver’s license at the time of rental and until the end of the contract of the person who will be designated as driver.
  • Minimum age: Must be over 25 years old. Persons between the ages of 21 and 24 will be subject to a minor driver charge.
  • Credit Cards: Present a valid credit card at the time of contract opening. VISA, MasterCard and American Express credit cards are accepted. Department store credit cards validated by VISA or MASTERCARD are accepted.

At the time of contract opening, you will be asked for a credit card to make a pre-authorization for the rental guarantee, which starts at 5,000 pesos depending on the car category, the number of rental days, the protections and additional services contracted, as well as the final charges resulting from the rent. For the rental guarantee, debit cards are not accepted. They will only be accepted as payment upon return of the vehicle.

In Mexico, protection against third party damages (civil liability) is required by law on all vehicles. This coverage can be purchased at the rental agency, and will cover damages caused to third parties. The acquisition of said coverage will be mandatory unless you present valid proof of specific third party liability coverage or valid liability insurance in Mexico issued by an insurance company with presence in Mexico. Liability insurance purchased from third party travel websites and credit/debit card insurance are not acceptable forms of coverage.

If the customer provides acceptable proof of TPL coverage or liability insurance in Mexico and declines to purchase the TPL coverage offered at the branch counter, the minimum guarantee amount of The rent that will be withheld from the credit card will be 50,000 pesos or US$2,500.

Where to rent a car?

If you are traveling to Mexico, you will most likely arrive at the following airports in Mexico:

  • Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport
  • Cancun International Airport
  • Monterrey General Mariano Escobedo International Airport
  • Tapachula International Airport
  • Angel Albino Corzo International Airport in Tuxtla Gutiérrez

You may wonder if it is more convenient to rent a car directly from the airport. And the answer is: it depends on your schedule and the time you want to stay in your arrival city (because you don’t necessarily need to be motorized there). However, in most cases, it is more convenient to pick up your rental car directly from the airport (even if it is often more expensive) or directly in the city of your arrival (by taking a free shuttle from the airport), which will save you from having to pay for the transfer by cab or bus.

Which agencies to book with?

There are excellent car rental price comparison services that do all the research on car rental companies for you. With them, you will find the cheapest car and you will save a lot. With this search, you will have access to all the major companies in Mexico in seconds. This is the best way to find the best price among all the companies, to find sometimes incredible promotions and to save a lot on your car rental in Mexico. 

In Cancún (find our guide to renting a car there here : “Car rental in Cancun in 2021”), as well as in the main tourist destinations of the world, there are several car rental agencies that are market leaders and all are optimal and very similar. The best rental car agency in Cancún, in our opinion, is TouraCancun, a trustworthy, French-speaking agency that will offer you the best possible assistance on site. You will also find other classic car rental agencies in Cancun such as Alamo, Sixt, Fox, National, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and Avis, which are international and have stores all over the world. All of these car agencies have stores at Cancun International Airport and in Mexico City, which are the main gateways, and this is where most of them rent and return the cars. By making your reservation at one of these car rental companies in Cancun, you will not have much trouble. There are much smaller companies that are local, but we do not recommend them to avoid problems and security issues. In addition, these companies have stores in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Mexico City, Cabo San Lucas, Cozumel, Acapulco, Tijuana, Guadalajara, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Puerto Peñasco and in all Mexican cities.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Mexico?

Urban
Approximately $110 pesos / day, or 4.50€.

Compact
Approximately $128 pesos / day, or 5.27€.

Sedan
Approximately $183 pesos / day, or €7.30

Top of the range
Approximately $317 pesos / day, or €12.80

Minivan
Approximately $280 pesos / day, or €11.30

Luxury
Approximately $394 pesos / day, or €16

SUV
Approximately $243 pesos / day, or 10€.

Pick Up
About $739 pesos / day, or 30€.

Van
Approximately $487 pesos / day, or 20€.

What insurance should I take when renting a car?

If your travel style is to move around a lot and involves visiting several places in the country, the most common way is to rent a car. Before you sign the contract, the rental agency will probably ask you to take out insurance. Here are the types of coverage that exist and those that you must pay for. In Mexico, in the case of rental cars, there is no set policy: each company builds its packages with two or more coverages for a set price or lets you choose which ones you want to include.In the case of rental cars, there is no set policy: each company builds its packages with two or more coverages for a set price or lets you choose which ones you want to include.

Just like when you drive your own car, there will always be the risk of having an accident or facing situations beyond your control. In addition, no matter how long you stay, it is impossible to rule out the possibility of theft, which makes insurance essential.

What type of coverage can you buy for rental cars?

In the case of rental cars, there is no set policy: each company can build its “packages” with two or more coverages for a set price or let you choose which ones you want to include. It’s up to you to decide which protections you deem necessary. Among those you will find (although the name may vary) are: 

  • Public Liability. Keep in mind that by law, all vehicles operating on federal roads in Mexico must have basic liability insurance that covers both property and people. Because of this requirement, some companies already include insurance in the cost of their rentals or will not let you rent without it.

  • Property Damage. Also known as CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), it covers damage to the vehicle caused by a collision or rollover, whether partial or total. Some may consolidate the cost of TP (Theft Protection), which protects against total theft of the vehicle, resulting in CDW-TP or LDW (Loss Damage Waiver).

  • Occupant Medical Expense. It protects the driver and passengers in the event of an accident, providing medical care at no additional cost.

  • Deductible Waiver. By renting, you will be exempt from paying the deductible for property damage, but not for total theft.

  • Roadside Assistance. It can cover everything from changing a tire or repairing a mechanical breakdown, to sending a locksmith (if you left the keys inside) or replacing the keys (if lost), services that would otherwise incur an additional cost.

The easiest way is with your car rental company, either physically or via a website. However, this is not the only option, you can take advantage of other insurance you already have, for example

  • Third party liability extension to your car insurance . If you own your own car and have this coverage, it is possible to use it, just ask the rental company and check its existence. Also, you should read your policy and see the conditions, as they almost always require a car similar to yours.

  • Credit Card Insurance. Some CDRs, especially those for travelers and the Platinum category, have the option of insurance that would cover damage to the rental car in some cases. To make it valid, you must pay with your plastic for everything related to the car rental and decline the CDW/LDW coverage. Find out in which countries it applies, what it covers and how damages are paid in case of an accident, as well as the process to activate it, to see if it is right for you.

Important: If you choose insurance on your own or do not rent any additional liability coverage, the coverage or the amount blocked on your card until the end of the contract, will be higher, although when you return the vehicle as you received it, it will be returned to you.

Remember that all car insurance has exclusions, so read the clauses carefully and don’t let anyone drive the car unless they are in the contract as an additional driver. Finally, if you decide to rent abroad, it is best to look for a site that offers services in Spanish.

Some tips when renting in Mexico

  1. The first tip that applies to all locations is to rent the car as soon as possible! The earlier you book your car online, the less you will pay. If you leave it for later, they will have few cars available, the prices will be higher and you run the risk of not getting the model you wanted.
  2. Most companies do not include the cost of gas in their rates. Preferably, return the car with a full tank of gas (or as it was delivered); otherwise, the company will charge you the difference at a price that may be higher than at a gas station.
  3. Check that the car is in perfect condition; any defects must be indicated in the contract before leaving the lot. Also make sure the vehicle is equipped with a spare tire and tools.
  4. Do not use the services of a company that refuses to provide you with insurance information or any other specific information.
  5. If you are flying to your destination, look for rates from rental companies located outside the airport. These rates may be lower than airport-based rental companies that do not charge a fee for access.
  6. Check to see if your credit card has insurance when you rent a car. Also check to see if the insurance you have on your own vehicle covers you in these cases.
  7. It is convenient for you to prepay online. Some companies offer discounts if you pay in advance; this also allows you to control your expenses and insure your car; It is recommended in high season, as rates may be higher when you arrive at your destination.
  8. Be careful and check the existence or reliability of any company that offers low rates.
  9. Ask if the company has an emergency road service and if they have a phone number in case you need help.

Questions about renting a car in Mexico?

Renting a car in Mexico online and hidden costs

If you look online, you’ll probably be impressed with the rates for car rentals in Mexico: $6 per day, $8 per day and even less than $20 per day for an SUV. Sounds perfect. But…

The problem is booking online. Once you get to the counter to pick up your car, you’ll suddenly be bombarded with an additional cost of mandatory insurance, service fees, and other things. Many major online travel booking sites will cheat you out of Mexican liability insurance, but it’s technically not their fault. It’s up to the rental agency to decide what they’re going to do and frankly, if you look like a tourist and don’t speak Spanish, there’s a good chance you’ll be charged extra. Several times I’ve had a car reserved for $5 online that was $200 upon arrival. Why?

Because most car rental companies in Mexico require you to purchase basic liability insurance, which costs, at the very least, about $20 per day. While there is a way out of this, there are a few things you should know. Don’t even bother booking insurance online at Orbitz, RentalCars.com or any other website. While these websites are excellent, their insurance works in other countries, it does not in Mexico. Mexico also does not accept liability coverage from credit card insurance. There is no problem as long as nothing happens, but if you get a flat tire or have an accident, you will have to pay a lot of extra fees.

If you choose to decline the extra insurance, you will run into another problem. Most companies refuse all extra insurance, it is a 2500 USD or more (or the equivalent in Mexican pesos). While for some Americans this is not a problem, many Europeans do not have such options on their credit cards.

Is there a penalty for returning the car early?

In general, companies do not refund for returning the car before your contract expires.

Will there be any additional charges if you return the rented car late?

You have to check with your rental company, but generally, the first 2 hours, an extra charge is made and, depending on the vehicle, after 3 hours it will be charged as a full day.

Do I need to refuel before returning?

You must refuel at the same level as when you picked up the vehicle. If not, it will be charged at the local company’s rate which is normally higher than the local pump’s price.

Where to get term insurance for your trip to Mexico

For your next trip to Mexico, you’ll need to get things in order very quickly. As you know, liability insurance is mandatory for all vehicles, but you can also choose other options for your temporary insurance policy. You can rent a car for 3 days or more for only 50 euros, even though you will certainly need much more time for a trip to Mexico! You should also know that it is possible to temporarily rent a motorhome in France for 50€, and even a truck for about 80€. It is indeed possible to temporarily rent any type of vehicle if, for example, you plan to move abroad. However, we recommend that you check with your insurance company to make sure that Mexico is one of the countries where your insurance is taken into account, even if some companies allow you to take out insurance in other European Union countries after three days.

To choose your temporary insurance for Mexico, it is very simple: you will not need to go to an agency or spend endless hours on the phone. All you need is your driver’s license and a copy of the car registration document for the car you want to insure, and you can even send this information by email or phone. Once you have signed up for term insurance and after signing your contract, you will receive all the supporting documents for term insurance.

How many days can you use a temporary insurance?

Of course, you can’t insure a vehicle temporarily indefinitely, and unfortunately that contract must come to an end. You can start a temporary insurance policy for one day only, but you can also go up to 90 days, which is almost 3 months in total. In cases where you go abroad and don’t know the exact date you will return, this can be very convenient! Indeed, it is not uncommon to see some professionals or individuals having to leave abroad without knowing exactly the duration of their trip. Unfortunately, in the case of certain seasonal trips that exceed 3 months and that can even involve half the year, it will not be possible to subscribe to a temporary insurance for your vehicle.

How much does term insurance cost for 3 months?

If you are going to be away for several months, you will need to compare the offers of the different providers who propose to insure your vehicle. Indeed, you will have to pay several hundred euros in total, which is a significant sum for the most modest households who have to count every euro spent. For a full month of temporary car insurance, for example, you will have to pay more than €162 in total, but for a full 90 days, you will have to pay a little more than €360 in total. Of course, this depends on the vehicle you choose to insure and we recommend that you check the different quotes you can get from insurance companies. Of course, the price of temporary car insurance also depends on the services you choose, just like with a classic insurer where :

  • A third party insurance will not protect you but will only cover the damages caused to other drivers.
  • A comprehensive insurance will be more expensive but will protect you from fire, theft, and maybe even natural disasters.
  • Intermediary insurances are alternatives that offer some additional guarantees to the third party insurance, it is not by chance that some insurers speak of “third party plus”.

Finally, we recommend that you specify that you wish to tr