Golf Vacation

Golf Guide to Palm Springs California - PalmSprings.com Golf Lessons / Free Clinics "Learn from a PGA Pro!" Large Groups / Tournaments "Book yours with the Pros!" Meeting Planner Guide "At NO COST to you!" Cathedral Canyon Country Club 34-567 Cathedral Canyon Drive Cathedral City, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 27 Regulation Holes Lake/Mountain: Men- 72/117; Ladies- 72/127 Mountain/Resort: Men- 72/111; Ladies- 72/124 Resort/Lake: Men- 70/110; Ladies- 70/124 Designed by David Rainville, the Cathedral Canyon Country Club offers three nine hole courses that are played in three eighteen hole combinations. The greens are slightly sloped, but considered by locals as among the best in the area. The fairways vary in width, and you can see most of the greens from off the tee boxes. Flat to moderately rolling, medium-wide nonparallel fairways. Strategically positioned bunkers and over 20 lakes. Cimarron Golf Resort 67-603 30th Avenue Cathedral City, CA 92234 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information Opened: January 2000 Architect: John Fought Cimarrn Golf Resort is an upscale 36-hole golf facility located in the famous desert community of Palm Springs. Cimarrn features two championship layouts (The Long Course and The Short Course) highlighted by creative contours, brilliant white steep-faced bunkers and impeccable playing conditions. Desert Dunes Golf Club 18550 Palm Drive North Desert Hot Springs, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/124, Ladies- 72/122 Architect: Robert Trent Jones Jr. The first desert course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Voted as one of the best public courses in Southern California. Laid out among large dunes and mature desert trees. Has a unique Scottish links flavor. The par-3 fifth hole requires a long tee shot over a desert setting with a mesquite backdrop. Bent grass greens. Desert Falls Country Club 1111 Desert Falls Parkway Palm Desert, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation Men- 72/121; Ladies- 72/124 Architect: Ronald Fream A links-type course that is surprisingly hilly for the desert. Heavily trapped. Very large, multilevel greens. Water a major factor on seven holes. Five sets of tees. A fair and demanding course. This course has served as a Stage I PGA Tour qualifying site. In November1992, it hosted Don Drysdale's PGA Senior Tour charity event. Bent greens. Desert Princess Country Club 28-555 Landau Blvd. Cathedral City, California 92234 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation Men- 72/121; Ladies- 72/126 Architect: David Rainville Very wide fairways. Course is mostly flat. Four sets of tees. Large lakes come into play on 10 holes. Greens are large, some are two-level a good, well-maintained resort course. The well-bunkered greens and bent grass make this course a challenge. Desert Willow Golf Resort Located on Desert Willow Drive off of Country Club ( between Cook Street and Portola Avenue) Palm Desert, California 92260 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information Firecliff Course : Men- 72/132; Ladies- 72/128 Mountain View Course : Men- 72/126; Ladies- 72/128 Architect: Michael Hurzdan and Dana Frye with PGA Professional John Cook Designed by Michael Hurdzan, Dana Frye and John Cook with large lakes, desert wasteland and bunkers throughout. The water and rock features, and large desert landscaping highlight both courses. These courses will test your skills, keep you honest and keep you coming back for more! Escena Golf Club 1000 North Gene Autry Trail Palm Springs, California 92264 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information Architect: Nicklaus Design Formerly the Palm Springs Classic, the Escena Golf Club epitomizes the revitalization and repositioning of Palm Springs as a cosmopolitan desert retreat. Taking its cue from all that is the new Palm Springs, Escena Golf Club provides a complimentary sense of place through its own defining architecture that will be sophisticated, unique, urbane and eclectic! Heritage Palms Golf Club 44-291 Heritage Palms Drive South Indio, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation , Men- 72/119; Ladies- 72/107 Architect: Arthur Hills Very golfer friendly, yet extremely challenging for all levels of golfers. Wide rolling fairways, making for good tee shots. There are four large lakes, and plenty of greenside bunkers. Indian Canyon Golf Resort 1097 Murray Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92264 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information Designed by Casey O' Callaghan The par 72, 6,550 yard championship course has four large lakes which come into play on six of the holes, but the most extraordinary feature are the 5 five par holes. The lush course with rolling mounds and fairways has more than 850 palm trees, including some 500 Washingtonia filifera palm trees native to the Agua Caliente Tribe and an important tree in the history of the Tribe. Indian Palms Country Club (formerly The President's Club) 48-630 Monroe Street Indio, California 92201 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 27 Regulation, Men- 72/131; Ladies- 72/120 Architect: Jackie Cochran/Helen Dettweiler Older part of the course has wide fairways and large trees. Newer part has narrower fairways and the rough quickly becomes desert. Water on 15 of the 27 holes. Elevated greens. Terrain varies from quite rolling to flat. This challenging layout is where President Dwight D. Eisenower wrote his memoirs, celebrating his birthday annually at the resort. Bermuda greens. Indian Springs Country Club 46-080 Jefferson Street La Quinta, CA 92253 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 71/109; Ladies- 74/114 Neil Finch, PGA GM/Director of Golf Indian Springs is a great course for the high-handicap golfer and very respectable for the low-handicapper as well when played from the back tees. The course features medium to wide fairways, mostly flat except near the desert wash which comes into play on numerous holes. Indian Wells Golf Resort - East Course 44-500 Indian Wells Lane Indian Wells, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 36 Regulation, Men- 72/117, Ladies- 72/113 Architect: Ted Robinson Rolling fairways, beautiful greens in a natural desert setting. Many parallel fairways, but plenty of mounding to seperate them. It features undulating fairways, heavy bunkering, several water hazards and Bermuda greens. Indian Wells Golf Resort - West Course 44-500 Indian Wells Lane Indian Wells, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/115, Ladies- 72/111 Architect: Ted Robinson Rolling fairways, beautiful greens in a natural desert setting. Many parallel fairways, but plenty of mounding to seperate them. It features undulating fairways, heavy bunkering, several water hazards and Bermuda greens. Landmark Golf Club 84-000 Landmark Parkway Indio, California 92203 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 36 Regulation North Course: Men- 68.5/121, Ladies- 69.7/124 South Course: Men- 68.9/123, Ladies- 70.9/128 Architect: Lee Schimdt / Brian Curley Landmark Golf Club located in Indio, California, is a 36-hole, desert oasis of two challenging and picturesque, championship golf courses set amid hundreds of acres of natural terrain. Created for professional golf events by the vision of PGA TOUR professionals to promote the spirit and competition of the game of golf, Landmark Golf Club is situated in the foothills of the lndio Hills. La Quinta Resort - Dunes Course 46-080 Jefferson Street La Quinta, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/114; Ladies- 72/124 Architect: Pete Dye The Dunes course has held both the California State Open and PGA Tour Qualifying School. Designed by Pete Dye, it provides a relaxing round of golf with spectacular views of the surrounding mountain and desert landscapes. Well bunkered with railroad ties and lots of water. The PGA of America rated 414 yard par-4 17th one of the country's toughest holes. Golf Magazine rates La Quinta's courses a silver medalist. La Quinta Resort - Mountain Course 46-080 Jefferson Street La Quinta, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/113; Ladies- 72/120 Architect: Pete Dye The Dunes course has held both the California State Open and PGA Tour Qualifying School. Designed by Pete Dye, it provides a relaxing round of golf with spectacular views of the surrounding mountain and desert landscapes. Well bunkered with railroad ties and lots of water. The PGA of America rated 414 yard par-4 17th one of the country's toughest holes. Golf Magazine rates La Quinta's courses a silver medalist. Marriott Desert Springs 74-855 Country Club Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 27 Regulation, Men- 72/116; Ladies- 72/124 Architect: Ted Robinson The Marriotts Desert Springs Valley and Palm golf courses also offer fantastic views of their surroundings in the Coachella Valley of southern California. The par-72, 6,627-yard Valley Course rewards players with striking scenes of the Santa Rosa Mountains, while the par-72, 6,761-yard Palm Golf Course offers views of the desert as well as the resort itself. Mesquite Country Club 2700 Mesquite Avenue Palm Springs, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/111; Ladies- 72/118 Architect: Bert Stamps Moderately rolling with mature trees and spectacular views of the mountains. It is well bunkered, with eight small lakes and many palm trees. The course plays over and along a streambed, so it is much tougher when the water flows. Mesquite has hosted several local PGA and Golden State Tour events. Bermuda greens. Mission Hills - Gary Player Signature 70-705 Ramon Road Rancho Mirage, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/111; Ladies- 72/118 Architect: Gary Player First Gary Player course in the desert. Rolling with many bunkers and lakes. Millions were spent landscaping this impressive layout. Golf Magazine voted it one of the top ten new resort courses. Mission Hills Resort - Pete Dye Course 71-501 Dinah Shore Drive Rancho Mirage, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/117; Ladies- 72/107 Architect: Pete Dye Pete Dye Opened in 1987, the Resort course has hosted the California State Open, Senior PGA, LPGA, and Nike Tour Qualifying Schools. Pete Dye's trademark railroad ties and pot bunkers are evident from the first tee to the 18th green. Mountain Vista Golf Club 38180 Del Webb Blvd Palm Desert, CA 92260 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 36 Regulation Santa Rosa Men- 72/119; Ladies- 72/116 San Gorgonio Men- 72/123; Ladies- 72/108 Architect: Greg Nash & Billy Casper The Mountain Vista Golf Course is a Par 72, championship golf course comprised of two 18-hole courses. Landscape features include more than 20 lakes, waterfalls, hundreds of palm trees and views of threesurrounding mountain ranges. The course was designed by architect Greg Nash and PGA Hall of Fame member Billy Casper. Oak Valley Golf Club 1888 Golf Club Drive Beaumont, CA 92223 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation Being a site for the PGA Tour Stage Two Qualifying Tournament, this par 72 Landmark Signature Design is filled with challenges to test players of all skill levels. Multiple teeing grounds that stretch the course from 5350 to 7003 yards, well-manicured bunkers, native grass areas and a touch of water provide stunning highlights to its beauty and splendor. Palm Desert Resort Country Club 77-333 Country Club Drive Palm Desert, CA 92211 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation Set against spectacular panoramic views of the Santa Rose and San Jacinto Mountains, the Palm Desert Resort Country Club is delight for any golfer. The par 72, championship golf course enjoys the splendor of mature trees and lush landscaping. The unique design features spacious fairways and newly replaced, enlarged greens. PGA West - Greg Norman 56-150 PGA Boulevard La Quinta, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/124; Ladies- 72/116 Architect: Greg Norman The stunning PGA West Greg Norman Course lies in a seabed 40-feet below sea level surrounded by an immense crescent of terra-cotta mountains. The course teems with purple, white and yellow wildflowers, while the mix of tall and short native grasses produce different shades of green running almost to silver. The demands of this course are a challenge for players of all levels. PGA West - Jack Nicklaus 56-150 PGA Boulevard La Quinta, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/124; Ladies- 72/116 Architect: Jack Nicklaus Has hosted the Grand Slam of Golf Wendy's Tree Tour Challenge and is home to the PGA 's Tour Qualifying School. It features contoured fairways, undulating greens and deep sand bunkers. A tamer version of the Stadium Course. Elevated ties, forced carries over water and huge, multi-tiered greens are the Jack Nicklaus trademark. Bent greens. PGA West - TPC Stadium Course 56-150 PGA Blvd. La Quinta, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/132; Ladies- 72/124 Architect: Pete Dye The original home of the Skins Game, this Pete Dye designed, world famous course has been viewed by millions on TV. The ultimate challenge awaits you at this "see it to believe it " golf course. Packed with pot bunkers, sand, water and sidehill lies. One of the course highlights is a 19-foot-deep, greenside bunker that flanks the par-5 16th hole. The TPC is considered one of the 100 greatest courses in the world. bent greens . Rancho Mirage Country Club 38-500 Bob Hope Drive Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 67.7/111; Ladies- 70.6/119 Architect: Harold Heers One of the best kept secrets in the desert, the Rancho Mirage Country Club features a rolling course, narrow fairways and small greens. There are wonderful views of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa mountains. Water comes into play on nine holes. Higher handicappers will enjoy the forgiving fairways, while better players are challenged from the blue tees. Bermuda greens. Shadow Ridge Golf Course 9002 Shadow Ridge Road Rancho Mirage, CA 92260 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 71.4/128; Ladies- 69.6/119 Architect: Nick Faldo (his first design on the West Coast) Set against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Santa Rosa Mountains, Nick Faldo's vast international experience and passion for strategic design and detail are clearly in evidence at the Shadow Ridge Golf Course. Faldo, winner of six Major championships and the all time leading Ryder Cup point scorer has focused his passion on his first design in the United States. According to Faldo, Shadow Ridge draws inspiration from the great sand-belt courses of Australia. SilverRock Resort 79179 Ahmanson Lane La Quinta, CA 92253 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72.0/130; Ladies- 71.06/125 Architect: Arnold Palmer. SilverRock Resort is a challenging 7,753 yards sprawling over 200 acres with massive native bunkers and stunning water features set against the backdrop and natural beauty of the Santa Rosa Mountains. So impressive and uniquely long is the course (hole #12 is a 658 yard par 6), that it has already been chosen by the PGA Tour as the future home of the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. Tahquitz Creek Golf Course - Legend 1885 Golf Club Drive Palm Springs, California 92264 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 36 Regulation, Men- 69.5/116; Ladies- 72.6/120 Architect: Billy Bell, Sr. Originally designed by Billy Bell, this course has been renovated to Arnold Palmer standards, including the addition of over 40 bunkers. The picturesque mountain views will enhance any round as you play this mature course which makes it's way through many tree lined fairways. With over 60 bunkers and deceptively undulated greens, this legend of a course will often sneak up and grab you . Tahquitz Creek Golf Course - Resort 1885 Golf Club Drive Palm Springs, California 92264 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 36 Regulation, Men- 71.4/128; Ladies- 69.6/119 Architect: Ted Robinson The course is a links style desert layout and is a challenge to players of all abilities. Its unique design brings together a natural desert beauty as well as a odern architectural design. The mountain views along with the rolling terrain, well placed bunkers, and wonderful water scapes, leave a lasting impression on all who visit this fabulous course. Triology Golf Club at La Quinta 60-151 Trilogy Parkway La Quinta, California Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72.7/127; Ladies- 71.6/120 Architect: Gary Panks Trilogy Golf Club at La Quinta, located at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains in La Quinta, California, is a daily fee 18-hole championship golf course designed by golf course architect Gary Panks. The course design lends itself to the natural terrain and vista views overlooking the Coachella Valley. At just under 6,900 yards from the championship tees, the course offers challenge and enjoyment for all skill levels. Woodhaven Country Club 41-555 Woodhaven Drive East Palm Desert, CA 92211 Tee Time Reservations: 1.866.465.3914 Click Here For Rates & Course Information 18 Regulation, Men- 72/111 Ladies- 72/116 Architect: Harold Heers, Jr. Woodhaven is a private country club that is considered one of the best hidden gems of the desert. The golf course was designed with gentle rolling slopes, narrow fairways, with spectacular mountain views throughout the 18 holes. Small greens and some water. The course usually rewards the mid to high handicapper. Palm Springs.com Home | Activities | Advertising Info | Art Galleries | Attractions | Calendar of Events | Casinos | Cathedral City | Community Services | El Paseo Shopping Guide | Golf Courses | Health & Beauty | History | Palm Springs Hotels & Resorts | Indian Wells | Map of Palm Springs | Meeting Planner | Nightlife | Palm Canyon Drive Shopping Guide | Palm Desert | Points of Interest | Professional Services | Rancho Mirage | Real Estate | Restaurants | Shopping | Transportation | Weather | Weddings

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Travel insurance Price comparison for cheap flights & travel Cheap flights home | Site tour Flights Holidays Short Breaks Hotels and more Help | Feedback | International Destination begins with... A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Cheap flights Last minute flights Weekend deals Low cost airlines Business & 1st Search flights by date Travel extras Travel insurance Choose from a range of providers: Halifax Travel Insurance Halifax Travel Insurance 30% of people still buy their travel insurance from the travel agent. But why? Halifax Annual Travel Insurance costs around 39 less than leading travel agents' single trip policies. Halifax could cover you for cancellations, medical emergencies, baggage loss and more. Get an instant quote online, plus a 5% online discount today. Website Go Travel Insurance Go Travel Insurance Cheap travel insurance from 3.95 - kids go free with families Trip and Annual Travel Insurance www.gotravelinsurance.co.uk Easy quick secure online buying. Single trip and Annual multitrip policies, Ski, Snowboarding & Off-piste. Backpackers, Students, Golfers & Business cover. Special rates for larger groups call us on 0870 421 1521 - Full coverage with great prices and 14 day money back guarantee Website Online Insurance Company Cheaper travel insurance through competition - single trip from 6.14! The only totally secure independent online travel insurance broker where four leading UK insurers compete on price and cover for your business. Designed from the outset to make your life easy, OiC delivers you a guide to prices including annual cover from 39.99 on the first page without asking lots of nosey questions. Website Norwich Union Direct Get a rapid online quote! Quote and buy travel insurance online with Norwich Union Direct and save 10% when you book online by credit or debit card. We also have a calculator from which you can get a rapid online insurance quote. Website Navigator Travel The choice for working holidays and hazardous sports We offer cheap worldwide travel insurance for independent travellers, backpackers, gap year and student travel. We cover working holidays and hazardous sports, such as skydiving, bungee jumping, scuba diving, whitewater rafting, hang-gliding, surfing and trekking. Navigator Travel Insurance will give you the peace of mind to get the most out of your travels. Website CheapestTravelInsurance.com Quote and buy online in a few easy steps. Quality cover at amazing prices Secure and easy to use online travel insurance cover. Competitive quote in 3 easy steps. We have Single trip cover for Europe starting at just 9.90 for 7 days and also offer cover for sporting/hazardous activities, annual multi-trip and extended trips. Website On this page: Halifax Travel Insurance Go Travel Insurance Online Insurance Company Norwich Union Direct Navigator Travel CheapestTravelInsurance.com Travel extras: Travel insurance | Car hire | Airport transfer | Airport parking | Agents & airlines | Useful links Help | Site map | About us | Contact us | Careers | Email newsletter © 1996 - 2005 Cheapflights Ltd all rights reserved Bookmark us | Privacy policy | Terms & conditions Cheap Flights | Cheap Hotels | Cheap Holidays | Short Breaks | Cheap Airfares (USA) | International

Austria Travel Photos Austria

Austria (attitude Travel) Advice, Photos and Resources for Independent Travel Home > Austria attitude Travel Questions on Highlights of Travel Advice Background on Getting to Getting around Where to stay in Where to go in Culture Shock! Journals from Photos of Books about Resources for Maps of Language of Websites about Austria Belgium Bosnia Bulgaria Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Georgia Germany Greece Hungary Italy Japan Latvia Lithuania Malaysia Montenegro Morocco Netherlands Norway Poland Russia Serbia Singapore Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland Thailand Turkey Uzbekistan Austria Home Considering Austria Austria Travel Photos Austria Bookshop Getting to Austria Consular Travel Advice UK US AUS CAN Travelling in Austria Alpine Europe attitude Travel Austria is a resource for independent travellers in Austria and a space for travellers to share original writing & photos Article Index Your questions! Travel Centre Bookshop Salzburg (more travel photos...) Salzburg (more travel photos...) attitudetravel.com SiteSearch Austria Profile Country Profile UK Foreign Office Austria Briefing The Economist Austria Profile BBC News Study of Austria US Library of Congress Background Notes US State Dept The Austrian Tirol region lies at the heart of the Alps. But Austria's heart beats to the north-east on the Danube, in the ancien regime city of Vienna. More maps... The imperial city is a popular choice of destination on backpacker travel itineraries alongside Amsterdam, Rome and Barcelona. But the Austrian capital has a fickle appeal. With cake shops instead of sports bars and mid-range pensions instead of easygoing hostels, Vienna feels very different from Prague or Budapest.While some fall in love with the seat of the Habsburg emperors, others find the city stuffy, a little dull and tiresomely expensive. That said, the Austrian capital's cultural treasures are undeniably impressive.And Vienna is certainly a good transport hub with easy connections to the Slovakian capital, Bratislava, in less than an hour and Budapest in Hungary and Brno in the Czech Republic only a little more distant. Independent Guides Click this icon to read a review of the website Link to us on your site: Open source Austria travel guide Click above for details Travel Services Ski Insurance from InsureandGo Car Hire Austria from carhire.co.uk Find cheap plane tickets on Yahoo! Travel Free Ranking and URL submission at siteranking.com Additional Resources New Article © New Author, New Place, New Month New article... [ article continues... ] Travel Articles on Austria New Article Article by New Author © 1997-2003 attitude Travel A r o u n i n m e d i a publication Professional Guides Click this icon to read a review of the website Vienna Hotels E-Partners E-Vienna Hotels proposes more than 30 properties. High quality pictures, descriptions & reviews... Austria | Belgium | Bosnia & Herzegovina | Bulgaria | Croatia | Czech Republic | Denmark | Estonia | Finland | France Georgia | Germany | Greece | Hungary | Italy | Japan | Latvia | Lithuania | Malaysia | Morocco | Netherlands | Norway | Poland Russia | Serbia & Montenegro | Singapore | Slovenia | Spain | Sweden | Switzerland | Thailand | Turkey | Uzbekistan home | free backgrounds | bookshop | travel centre | features | travellers' cafe

Mexico Travel

Mexico Travel Guide - Mexico Articles Wednesday Dec 28th, 2005 Mexico Central Time Back to Mexico Articles Ok, you want to drive to Mexico (good for you!) and now you need to know what it will take to get you and your vehicle into the country. Here is the straight scoop. A friend of mine got in with a student ID and a smile, but she was much prettier than I am. All minors (under 18) need either both parents with them, or notarized permission from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian. Vehicle Title or Registration Receipt. Owner is considered the name(s) on title only. For example: a wife cannot take the car if the title is only in the husband's name. If names of both husband and wife appear on title, either one may take the car. Birth certificate, passport or notarized proof of citizenship, or voter's registration card. Visa, MasterCard, Diner's, or American Express card with the same name as on title. Valid driver's license (with photo and same name as on title). Notarized letter of permission from the bank or lienholder is required on financed cars, rental cars, leased cars, or company cars (on company stationary). No borrowed cars or borrowed credit cards are accepted. You must sign an affidavit of promise to return vehicle back to the United States. Back to Top Failure to turn in your vehicle permit before the expiration date may result in fines. * This is subject to change without notice. In order to get your vehicle permit, you will pay an approximately $10-11 fee with a Visa, MasterCard or American Express. If you do not have a credit card, you will have to post a bond (much of which you will get back on your return). Your permit is good for multiple entries, but you MUST turn it in at border BEFORE it expires. We might as well warn you about customs before it is too late to do anything about it. Technically, both foreigners and Mexicans who are driving are only allowed to bring $50 worth of "merchandise" (mercancia, a word you will soon learn). Since nobody takes long trips to Mexico with only $50 worth of stuff, this is obviously impossible to enforce. What customs is looking for is new items that could be sold. The secret is not to have new-looking items with you. For example, if you have new clothes, take the tags off. If you have new camping gear, take it out of the shiny boxes and throw some dirt on them to make the boxes look old. Get the idea? One thing that will get you into trouble is a lot of stuff in Wal-Mart etc. sacks. If you bought a lot of items for your trip, take them out of the sacks, remove the price tags and distribute them among your baggage. I was once delayed for having too much film. I am a photographer and regularly take fifty rolls of film. Technically that is illegal, but I only had a problem once. That was when the rolls were still in a plastic bag from the store. From then on, I spread them out and haven't had a problem since. Computers Laptop computers are never (a dangerous phrase to use in Mexico, but I will go out on a limb here) a problem. Desktops can usually be brought in. A journalist friend of mine was moving to Mexico and had a lot of stuff, including a desktop computer. The customs inspector wanted to do his job, but he was a practical man. "Your computer," he asked, "it is small, no?" "Si," the scribe replied, "muy pequeño." Be honest and friendly and things will work out. Be arrogant and you will have trouble. Back to Top When to cross Allow at least 30 minutes for customs clearing. Early in the AM (6-7:30) is best. After 9:00 AM, it could take 30 minutes up to an hour. Weekends are the worst time, especially holidays. If you got a late start, please spend the night in a border town. Driving in Mexico is not as dangerous as you have been led to believe, but it is more challenging. There are plenty of four-lane toll roads that (for a price) can make you feel as comfortable as if you were back home. The two-lane roads vary in width and conditions so that some of them are usually in great shape, and others are often full of potholes. You will have to learn a few rules of the road For current gas and diesel prices, jump to gas prices. For road conditions, go to road updates. Driving in Mexico is perfectly safe and enjoyable. It is no more difficult than driving in the U.S., though defensive driving is a requirement. Despite what you have heard, Mexicans are very polite -- on the open road. In cities, a certain amount of aggression is required. Still, that's true in our country, too. How many of us can compete with NY or Boston cabbies -- or would want to? I have driven in most of the major U.S. cities and find the drivers in Mexico to be generally more polite, particularly the truck drivers and long distance bus drivers. (See the section about left turns). Accidents A remarkably small number of gringos have accidents in Mexico. Perhaps they learn the differences quickly or perhaps God watches out for fools, drunks and the U.S.A, as I was told by my father. So that you won't have to depend on divine intervention, I will give you some of the driving tips I have gleaned in my over twenty years of driving around Mexico. In that time, I have had one accident -- and that was because I passed out from carbon monoxide poisoning. Here's a tip -- if you have a back window on your 4WD, don't leave it open. Why is everyone flashing their lights at me? Flashing your headlights at a car in front of you indicates that you want to pass them. If you drive with your headlights on during the day, you will be flashed by oncoming drivers because they think you have left your lights on by accident. Back to Top Night Driving Don't drive at night on the two-lane roads. There is a lot of loose livestock and I have yet to see a cow equipped with tail lights. My tip for driving at night is - DON'T. On the toll roads (which are as good as or even better than those in the U.S. or Canada), you can drive at night, but should be aware that some roads -- particularly the Orizaba-Villahermosa road, and the Mexico City-Acapulco road, have been known to have assaults at night. Left Turn Signals On the open road, a left turn signal is an invitation to the guy behind you to pass. Trucks and busses frequently turn their left blinker on to guide you around them. I trust them, but use common sense. Sometimes they have optimistic views of your acceleration capabilities. Don't use your left turn signal on a two lane road when you are about to pass. You might get hit. A few readers have pointed out that on the toll roads, people use turn signals as they do here. My advice -- use 'em as you are used to on toll roads, but don't expect the other guy to do the same. Left Turns Left turns are different! When there is a left turn lane, there will usually be a left turn arrow. Look for 4 lights on signal. You MUST wait for arrow (whether or not you saw any Indians). Right Turns Right on red is usually not OK, unless there is a sign saying that it is. Lately, however, I have been honked at by locals when I wait for a green light. What to do? If there isn't a cop nearby, (and the coast is clear) I turn. Topes and Truckers Watch out for topes, which are speed bumps in every town of any size. They begin just as you enter a town and there are lots of them in-between. Slow down in rain -- more than you do here. The roads are slicker, due to the blowoff from the big trucks and it takes several hours of a heavy rain to wash it away. Truckers are usually friendly and will use the aforementioned left turn signal to give you the go-ahead to pass them when you cannot see around them. Back to Top Cops Traffic cops are more honest than you have been led to believe, but there are some in towns who are looking for bribes, especially in Mexico City. When this happens, stand firm and tell them you want to go to the comandancia. In Mexico City You cannot drive in Mexico City on certain days, depending on the last number of your license plate. Drive defensively at all times and you should have no problems. You will not go to jail for having a traffic accident, unless you do not have insurance, are drunk or high, or are argumentative. If the accident is serious, or if you kill someone, you could go to jail, or you and your car could simply be detained until the matter is settled. For this reason it is a good idea to have a legal assistance policy. This came from Live Better South of the Border. If you like the info you can order the book from a Secure Order Form with VI, MC, AM at http://www.mexicomike.com or by sending a check to Roads Scholar Press, 300 Zapata St., Rancho Viejo, TX 78520 or call 1-800-321-5605. The cost is $16.95 plus $4.00 S&H. Texas residents add 8.25% tax ($22.34). Back to Top Send us your comments about this article Back to Mexico Articles Acapulco | Cancun | CopperCanyon | Cozumel | Guadalajara | Huatulco | Ixtapa | Los Cabos Manzanillo | Mazatlan | Mexico City | Monterrey | Oaxaca | Puerto Vallarta © 1995 - 2005 Let's Go2Mexico ® - All Rights Reserved - Powered by ® Go2 Producciones ernesto luna sierra

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CNN.com - Travel International Edition | Member Center: Sign In | Register Home Page World U.S. Weather Business Sports Politics Law Technology Science & Space Health Entertainment Travel Education Special Reports Video Autos CNN Pipeline E-mail Newsletters Your E-mail Alerts Podcasts RSS CNNtoGO Contact Us 2006 hot spots include Colorado, China, Croatia While travel to perennial favorites like Los Angeles, Orlando, New York and Las Vegas is always strong, some unexpected destinations -- from Colorado and Arizona to Croatia and China -- are showing up as hot spots for travel as the 2006 season begins. FULL STORY • 'Disaster tourism' edges into view TRAVEL CHALLENGE Europe for two, under $1,200 TRAVEL SNAPSHOTS Today: Nassau, Bahamas. Send us your snapshots MORE NEWS • TSA: Changes don't affect screening times • Top amusement parks up 4.2 percent • Time brings changes to Myrtle Beach • Watch: Tips for traveling on the cheap • Mushing in Minnesota's frozen wilderness WATCH FREE VIDEO Browse/Search Business News Update (1:33) Plea deal in Enron case (:27) Featured Video More Top Video • Gaza violence and politics • French hostage video (:40) • Hole forces plane to land (1:13) Featured Video More Top Video More Destinations Nicaragua: Peaceful times for tourists • Washington promoting American originals • Alaska: Venturing north of the Arctic Circle • Sparkle in a small Virginia town sponsored by: More Travel News Mexico resorts getting back in the swim • Air marshals to monitor transit systems • Top places to frolic in your birthday suit • New technology can prevent runway overruns More Travel Adviser News Gifts for globe-trotters • CNN/Money: Holiday escape savings • Delve deeper into your destination • Travel insurance helps cover all the bases More Business & Industry News Ski industry optimistic for good season • Delta pilots accept 15 percent pay cut • Airlines go flat out for comfort • Atlanta poised for major tourism push SPECIAL REPORT CNN/Money: Airline turbulence D.C. DINING ON A DIME Eat like a senator for intern prices LOVELYLOWCOUNTRY Backroads guide to picturesque South Carolina region DRIVING DIRECTIONS Create a personal itinerary with listings of nearby lodging, dining and more • Find a map RESOURCES • Find weather forecasts • CNNMoney.com currency converter • CNN Airport Network • CNN Partner Hotels • Airline toll free numbers • US Customs • Passports • Travel warnings and advisories Search for jobs @ Also see International Edition Languages --------- Arabic Japanese Korean Turkish CNN TV CNN International Headline News Transcripts Advertise with Us About Us © 2005 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you. Read our privacy guidelines . Contact us . External sites open in new window; not endorsed by CNN.com Pay service with live and archived video. Learn more Download audio news | Add RSS headlines