Important Rules for Driving in Mexico

• It is considered very polite to pull over to the right and let faster vehicles pass.

• If you are driving along and encounter a slower moving vehicle you will notice that the driver will pull over to right the shoulder lane and turn on their left turn signal. This is a signal for you to pass them. You may now pass them, then turn on your right signal to say thank you.

• If you are driving and the person behind you puts on their turn signal and does not do anything that person is letting you know that they want to pass you.

• If someone in the oncoming lane flashes their lights at you it means that there is a problem up ahead and you should be aware of this and slow down or proceed with caution

• Watch the road if you pull over to the right - this is also a walking and bicycle lane.

• VERY Important: when doing a left hand turn; pull over to the far right lane and slow down and let everyone pass you - when you're absolutely sure no one is coming in either direction - then make your way.

• I love the small VW bugs - all you really need in this area, as the roads are so good - but drive careful and just under the speed limit in these small cars. A bit cramped for tall persons.

Green Angels (Angeles Verdes): FREE are green tow trucks that patrol the highways looking for people in need of help - stranded soul's - If in need, flag them - that's what there for.

Car Rental:  Cars maybe rented at the Cancun airport but it always best to rent in advance so you can be assured of the vehicle of your choice in your price range.

I have had the best luck with Avis and Budget, their price is always what was quoted via phone or internet and they allow you to decline the purchase of additional insurance if you have valid insurance through a travel program or credit card program which can save you a great deal of money.

Find out if you need to return with the gas tank full or a pre marked point.

Tulum Car Rental: There is also a rental car agencies in Tulum, so if you decide later in your stay you want a car for a day here and a day there, it will be possible (but the car needs to be returned to Tulum - not the airport).

Driving in Mexico

Highway 307 is a brand new 4 lane highway running from Cancun to 10 km south of Playa del Carmen - at which point this new highway carries on as a 2 lane to Tulum. The newness of the highway, makes it safe and a luxury compared to other roads of Mexico, but the flow of traffic is picking up each year. Please drive the speed limit and take your time.

All other Highways: expect them to be narrow and full of potholes - just go slow, no worries. Many secondary highways are not in bad shape.

Highway Police Patrol: any traffic offences such as speeding, no parking, one way streets etc. can lead to hassles with the Police. What can happen is that the police can take your license plates or even impound the vehicle. If it is a rental you likely going to have to pay and/or go through all the hassles of sorting the mess out which can totally ruin 2 days of your trip and cost you money,for nothing but aggravation.

Confronting a Police Officer: when dealing with police officers, military or any Mexican official remain calm and collected. Treat this person with the utmost respect. Be sincere and be prepared to follow all directions and answer any questions. Do not be confrontational and do not raise your voice. Remain passive at all times. You will receive no slack for being a tourist who does not know the law. Never attempt to bribe a police officer or official, if they want money they will let you know and don't flash a bunch of cash or it could cost you the bunch.

Q: Do you recommend that we get a rental car, or may the areas of interest and places to eat be reached by walking or hiking?

A: Pretty much all of our guests come with a rental car, however it is possible to get by with out a vehicle. Blue Sky has a Italian and Seafood Cuisine and another options several lots down the road.  The rest of the restaurants are in Tulum, about a 10 minute drive (taxi available at hotel for about $8 us).

It really depends on the type of holiday you are planning. Some guests come without a car with just enough time to relax at the hotel, enjoy the ocean and wonders of the tranquil Tankah Bay. Most guests rent cars - groceries, snacks, liquor, more entertainment, shops are in Tulum Town, Tulum beach has fabulous choices of great evening dining on the beach. If you plan to do some adventures every other day a car is very important for your vacation.  All activities are 3 to 7 kms.

Airport Transfer: one private round trip airport transfer, includes air-conditioned van and driver.

Taxi service: is available from Blue Sky to Tulum- about  $7.00 us one-way.

There are buses and taxi in Tulum that will take you to the Coba ruins (one of our favorites).

Tulum Bus Depot - Buses run out of Tulum to all locations all day long.