European Vacation(1985) Availability: Usually

Amazon.com: Nat'l Lampoon European Vacation(1985): Video Your Store Video See All 32 Product Categories   Your Account | Cart | Wish List | Help | advanced search | browse genres | top sellers | new & future releases | kids & family | movie showtimes | today's deals | used videos Search Amazon.com VHS Used Videos DVD DVD & VHS Movie Showtimes Web Search This item is not eligible for Amazon Prime, but over a million other items are. Join Amazon Prime today. Already a member? Sign in . VIDEO INFORMATION Explore This Video buying info technical information editorial reviews customer reviews RATE THIS VIDEO I dislike it I love it! 1 2 3 4 5 Edit your ratings Favorite Magazines! Subscribe to entertainment magazines today. Visit the DVD Store National Lampoon's Vacation (20th Anniversary Special Edition) DVD ~ Chevy Chase 40 used & new from $0.79 Have one to sell? Nat'l Lampoon European Vacation(1985) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days 40 used & new from $0.79 Edition: See more product details Customers who viewed this videoalso viewed: National Lampoon's Vacation 4-Pack VHS ~ Chevy Chase Explore Similar Items : 1 in Video , 8 in DVD , and 3 in Music Product Details Director: Amy Heckerling Format: Closed-captioned, Color, HiFi Sound, NTSC Rated: Studio: Warner Home Video Video Release Date: May 27, 1992 VHS Features: NTSC format ( US and Canada only. This VHS will probably NOT be viewable in other countries. Read more about VHS formats .) Closed-captioned, Color, HiFi Sound, NTSC From IMDb: Quotes & Trivia ASIN: B000005PKP Other Formats: DVD widescreen Average Customer Review: Based on 57 reviews. Write a review . Amazon.com Sales Rank: Today: #21,185 in Video Yesterday: #19,563 in Video Editorial Reviews Amazon.com After winning a tour package in a game show, the bickering Griswald family carve a trail of destruction through England (where they knock over Stonehenge), France, Germany, and Italy. Somehow Ellen (Bevery D'Angelo), the mom, gets kidnapped by gangsters, leading to a car chase that reunites the family, despite their differences. It's hard to believe that National Lampoon's European Vacation is only the second of the Vacation movies; it has the exhausted pallor of the last of a long series of sequels, drained of all zest or original ideas. The charmless smirk of Chevy Chase, mechanical in its idiocy, hangs over European Vacation like a death mask. It's hard to believe that this hack was once the funny and sexy hero of Foul Play . D'Angelo keeps her chin up and gives the movie whatever class it may have; she deserves better. --Bret Fetzer --This text refers to the DVD edition. Spotlight Reviews (What's this?) Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers. 18 of 18 people found the following review helpful: NOT the original theatrical version! , September 19, 2003 Reviewer: T. D. Charlton "alltheothernamesaretaken" (CA United States)- See all my reviews This is NOT the original version!!! I'm very disappointed that Amazon.com didn't disclose this information. Scenes are missing and parts are dubbed over. Funny parts are still funny but it's just not the same. I feel duped. --This text refers to the DVD edition Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 3 of 4 people found the following review helpful: ANOTHER FUN TRIP!!!! , September 21, 2004 Reviewer: A. R SCOTT "Alesha Scott" (Houston, Texas)- See all my reviews YEP! THIS IS ANOTHER TRIP WITH THE GRISWOLDS. I LIKE THIS MOVIE IT IS FUNNY I LIKED IT. THE GRISWOLDS DECIDED TO GO TO EUROPE AND THEY HAVE ANOTHER ADVENTUROUS AND HILARIOUS TRIP. I THOUGHT THIS WAS A FUNNY MOVIE. I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS MOVIE TO ANYONE WHO LIKES THE VACATION MOVIES OR CHEVY CHASE. I THOUGHT THIS ONE WAS JUST AS FUNNY AS THE FIRST ONE AND STILL DELIVERS A LOT OF FUN AND A LOT OF LAUGHS. --This text refers to the DVD edition Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) All Customer Reviews Average Customer Review: Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers. 0 of 3 people found the following review helpful: great , September 13, 2005 Reviewer: Stacy Wagner - See all my reviews the transaction itself was very quick and the product came to me in new perfect condition. --This text refers to the DVD edition Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 2 of 2 people found the following review helpful: Not on par with the original, but pretty close! , April 19, 2005 Reviewer: Britt Gillette "www.thedvdreport.com" (Chesapeake, VA USA)- See all my reviews Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo return as Clark and Ellen Griswold in National Lampoon's European Vacation, sequel to the original Vacation movie and precursor to the holiday classic Christmas Vacation. Like the other films, this edition contains different cast members to play the roles of Griswold children Audrey (Dana Hill) and Rusty (Jason Lively). The only Vacation movie that doesn't feature Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid), European Vacation is nevertheless one hilarious movie. It's an old school comedy like they just don't make anymore... When the Griswold family appears on the hit TV game show, Pig In A Poke, they inadvertently beat a superior family and win an all-expenses paid trip to Europe. As usual, Clark is giddy about the wonderful trip of family bonding which he dreams his family will enjoy. But Audrey is mortified at the prospect of leaving her boyfriend behind. Nevertheless, the Griswolds hop on a plane bound for Europe. Right off the bat, Clark's dream vacation begins to experience shortcomings. The first hotel the family stays in is a half-star dump with a community bathroom, and Clark gets stuck on a circular roadway where he endlessly passes by Big Ben and Parliament. A couple of brilliant guest appearances are turned in by Eric Idle (of Monty Python fame) who plays the role of a zealously friendly biker. In one of the funniest scenes in the film, Clark smashes into the biker, who apologizes to Clark while hobbling away from the wreck and who springs a bloody leak from his wrist that he passes off as a mere "flesh wound". When Clark hits another motorist, he and the family are given the man's bumper as a souvenir to take home to America. As the Griswold clan makes their way across mainland Europe, especially in France and Germany, they encounter various pitfalls and cultural misunderstandings. Rusty causes a dog to jump to its death from the heights of the Eiffel Tower, and Clark instigates a riot in a small Bavarian township. One of the more memorable one-liners from the film is when Audrey tells Clark that in Germany "sex" means "six," so while searching for his relatives who live in apartment six, he greets some surprised residents with the tagline, "Hello, my family and I are looking for sex!" When the stress becomes unbearable, the vacation inevitably drives each of the family members in a different direction, but everyone is quickly brought back together when Ellen is kidnapped by a pair of petty criminals who want to get their hands on the family vacation fund. Clark must come to the rescue and save, not only his wife, but the family's entire vacation experience as well... A great comedy that contributes to the overall quality of the National Lampoon's Vacation films, European Vacation is a fun, family-oriented film. Those who enjoyed the exploits of Clark Griswold in the more recent Christmas Vacation or Vegas Vacation films will find it well worth their while to go back see this movie which many people have forgotten about. This is an utterly hilarious film in its own right, and clearly earns its designation as a must-see film... The DVD Report --This text refers to the DVD edition Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) Great Comedy , April 17, 2005 Reviewer: John Livermore "buster_trader" (Bethesda, MD, USA)- See all my reviews Not as good as "... Vegas Vacation" and "... Vacation" but it is still very good! --This text refers to the DVD edition Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 2 of 3 people found the following review helpful: just as side splitting as N. L. Vacation , February 25, 2005 Reviewer: DSG "DSG" (Franklin, Wisconsin)- See all my reviews don't have much to say about this one. was lauging too hard at this one. it's just such a hilarious follow up to National Lampoon's Vacation. see this movie if you like Chevy Chase. so glad I have this on dvd. it too will be watched time and time again --This text refers to the DVD edition Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) See all 57 customer reviews... So You'd Like To... Start a DVD collection :by Tom Harrison , Young Movie Enthuasiast Be as cool as me :by sarbear297 , College Student Have A Great Movie Collection :by mcm1071989 , Amateur Movie Critic Listmania! Funnies movies ever made! :A list by jbd8504 , movie watcher Chevy Chase - The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly :A list by Barry , Proud To Be A Chevy Fan 'favorite movies' pt. III :A list by c.pettinato , drug/gm associate Browse for VIDEO in: VHS > Genres > Comedy > By Theme > Nothing Goes Right VHS > Genres > Comedy > General VHS > Genres > Comedy > Slapstick VHS > Genres > Comedy > Parody & Spoof VHS > Directors > ( H ) > Heckerling, Amy VHS > Genres > Comedy > Parody & Spoof > General • I have seen this video, and I want to review it. • tell a friend about this item . • Write a So You'd Like to... guide . • Check Purchase Circles . For more information about "European Vacation," visit the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) Suggestion Box Your comments can help make our site better for everyone. If you've found something incorrect, broken, or frustrating on this page, let us know so that we can improve it. Please note that we are unable to respond directly to suggestions made via this form. If you need help with an order, please contact Customer Service . Please mark as many of the following boxes that apply: Product information is missing important details. 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family vacations, and travel

Cheap Vacations, Weekend Getaways, Family Vacation Special Offers Tell A Friend -- - State of Residence - ALABAMA ALASKA ARIZONA ARKANSAS CALIFORNIA COLORADO CONNECTICUT DELAWARE FLORIDA GEORGIA HAWAII IDAHO ILLINOIS INDIANA IOWA KANSAS KENTUCKY LOUISIANA MAINE MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN MINNESOTA MISSISSIPPI MISSOURI MONTANA NEBRASKA NEVADA NEW HAMPSHIRE NEW JERSEY NEW MEXICO NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA NORTH DAKOTA OHIO OKLAHOMA OREGON PENNSYLVANIA PUERTO RICO RHODE ISLAND SOUTH CAROLINA SOUTH DAKOTA TENNESSEE TEXAS UTAH VERMONT VIRGINIA WASHINGTON WASHINGTON, D.C. WEST VIRGINIA WISCONSIN WYOMING Fairfield Getaways offers weekend getaways, family vacations, and travel packages that include hotel accommodations and extra goodies to top destinations. Book your package today. Special Offers Tell A Friend --| About Fairfield | FAQ | Affiliates | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy Florida Timeshare Las Vegas Family Vacations Myrtle Beach Vacation Package Florida Beach Vacations Las Vegas Package Deals Palm Springs Vacation Package Florida Golf Vacations Cheap Las Vegas Vacation Package myrtle beach family myrtle beach golf palm springs family palm springs golf Daytona Vacation Packages Fort Lauderdale Vacation Packages Disney World Vacation Packages Smoky Mountian Getaways Smoky Mountian Vacations Williamsburg Vacation Packages Williamsburg Virginia Vacations alexandria vacations alexandria va vacations durango ski vacations durango vacation packages nashville tn_vacation packages nashville vacation packages new_orleans louisiana vacations new orleans vacation packages berkshires vacation packages hancock_vacation_packages historic san antonio vacations lake tahoe vacation deals lake tahoe vacation packages romantic sedona getaways san antonio getaways sedona vacation packages kona hawaii vacation packages oahu vacation packages myrtle beach timeshare vacation branson timeshare

golf vacation on the

Myrtle Beach Golf Packages, Golf Vacation Packages of the Carolinas Home Myrtle Beach Packages 27 Holes a Day 3 Night 4 Round 3-4 Economy Deal 4 Night 6 Round Best in U.S. Big Cat Pack Brunswick Isle Pack Canadians 6 Night Canadians Only Can't Refuse Crows Nest Economy Deals Fanatic Golfer Marsh Inlet Mid Premium Mid Week Deals Most Scenic Signature CCC Package Parkland Pack Premium Deals Sea Trail Golf Package Ultra Premium Year Round 1 Price Waccamaw River Hilton Head Golf Packages Charleston SC Golf Corporate Golf Events Golf Gift Certificates Myrtle Beach Airports Spain Ireland Scotland Military Specials Course Ratings Golf Virtual Tours Lodging Search Contact Us Links Join Our Mailing List! Email Address: Name: Golf Packages of the Carolinas With over 450 Oceanfront and Golf Course Condos, located along the Grand Strand oceanfront and on great golf courses, including, Myrtlewood Golf Villas, Barefoot Golf Villas, Crow Creek CC Villas, Aberdeen CC Golf Villas, Tidewater Golf Villas, and 1000 Hotel Rooms, Sandcastle South, Sandcastle North, Courtyard Marriott at Barefoot Landing, Holiday Inn and Suites in North Myrtle Beach at Coquina Harbour and the prestigious Ocean Drive Beach and Golf Resort, at huge Myrtle Beach Golf Package discounts, Golf Packages of the Carolinas is North Myrtle Beach's largest golf and lodging discount wholesaler. Deluxe properties and great golf bargains are available to you every day. We offer outstanding discounts on all of your favorite golf courses in the Myrtle Beach area. Play world-class championship golf on emerald green fairways, designed by the world's greatest architects, Nicklaus, Palmer, Cate, Jones, Maples and many more. There are courses and packages for golfers of all levels, including seniors, women, juniors, and professional-level players. With nearly 112 golf courses and our many lodging options, you are certain to find the right package for your budget and skill level. Contact our Golf Directors by email or call our toll free numbers to coordinate your golf vacation on the Grand Strand or Brunswick Isles. Vacation here with golf buddies or your family, either way you'll have a great time. We are one of the few golf package companies in Myrtle Beach that boast a PGA Class A Pro as a golf director as well as a knowledgeable staff with over 35 years experience in the golf business. In addition, Gary Cowan, our Canadian staff member, is a former Senior Tour Player with 8 Masters appearances and winner of 2 Majors [1966 and 1971 US Amateur Championships]. Great golf schools and instruction are also available. Get your lessons from some of the best teachers in the golf industry. We represent the Ocean Ridge Golf Academy. They'll help you with your swing, and give you lessons on great courses with our Stay-and-Learn Packages. When it comes to the best of Myrtle Beach, everything you could possibly want in your golf package is available here at Golf Packages of the Carolinas. Current rates are always available through our Golf Directors, and they are always up to date on course conditions and statistics A discriminating golfer deserves the top courses, top accommodations, confirmed tee times and Prepaid Green and Cart Fees. You can do it all and more in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina! Also inquire about our other destinations in South Carolina and around the world. Also inquire about our worldwide destinations. Golf Packages of the Carolinas 218 Main Street North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29582 Home | Myrtle Beach | Hilton Head | Spain | Ireland | Scotland | Military Specials | Course Ratings Lodging Search | Contact Us | Links | E-Mail Us 2002 VR Marketing . All Rights Reserved.

France Travel

France Bicycle Tours, France Walking Tours, France Hiking Tours, France Travel, walking tour france, Bike Tour France, Paris hotel, Paris travel, Paris Tours, France Cycling Vacations, Bike Tour Europe DISCOVER FRANCE FRANCE BICYCLE TOURS FRANCE WALKING TOURS FRANCE GETAWAYS PARIS TRIPS PARIS HOTELS Theme Travel » Honeymoons Family Trips Wine/Cooking Paris Packages His & Her Custom Travel Gay/Lesbian Promotions Group Travel Club Trips Info Terms and Conditions Travel Agents This site is secure; all information is 128 bit encrypted. All bookings must be made using this form. We will however accept credit cards over the telephone once this form is complete. To Do: 1. READ all the TERMS AND CONDITIONS , then 2. Click here to go to the: BOOKING FORM . (Note: Old versions of Internet Explorer or Netscape may not support this form.) NOTE: We know this is going to be a vacation of a lifetime, and we encourage you to call us on the phone, ask any questions you still have, and get the personal touch we have available. You will talk to a live body if you choose to call! Of course, we welcome visits to our offices in Scottsdale, Arizona. Prices quoted throughout this site are in Euros or $US and final payment is always in $US. Note: we require a credit card to secure and hold reservations; however we encourage online check payment and wires for the best prices in making final payment. See the terms link above. TRAVEL AGENTS are welcome to book for their clients as well. Simply follow the same procedures, or give us a call and we'll complete the documentation over the phone, including a credit card to guarantee followed by an agency check number to be forwarded to our offices. Also, include your agency info with IATAN number. Note that we only accept agency checks/credit cards and you will pay net of commission. Within this site you can discover more than just our tours, but also information about the regions of France, and information about traveling in France. Most important though for anyone visiting our site and considering a vacation in France is that you can call us! Let our service and knowledge set us apart! This website isn’t to help us avoid speaking to clients, but to facilitate your planning process, and hopefully get you the information you need right away. If you have a question though, Please contact us if you have any questions about our services to France including: hotels in paris, alsace lorraine, bed and breakfasts, bicycle tours in brittany, hotel burgundy, paris bike tours, bordeaux, burgundy, chamonix, champagne, chateau loire, hotel chamonix, bicycle tours in france, hotels provence, lille, loire, lyon, marseille, paris vacation, normandy travel, orleans, alsace, chamonix hotel, paris accommodation, provence, ski france, tour of normandy, cannes tourism, nice travel, travel paris, gites vacation, walking tour in ouest, hotel alsace, chamonix tourism and the loire valley. Home | Cycling Classics | Pure Adventures | Bicycle Tours | Walking Tours | Media | Links Promotions | Travel Agents | FAQs | Weather | Newsletter | Group Travel | Privacy © 2006 Discover France (SM)

Mexico Travel Guide pages!

Mexico Travel Guide - Travel Tips Wednesday Dec 28th, 2005 Mexico Central Time Just like traveling to other parts of the world, there are some general concepts we suggest you think about while packing your luggage. Follow these suggestions so your visit to Mexico will be a success. Entry Requirements When To Go Getting Around Weather Considerations What To Bring Health Tips Money Exchange & Credit Tips For Seniors Entry Requirements Enter in Mexico Three items are needed to enter Mexico: A Photo I.D. (such as a Driver's License or a passport, starting at age 18 and above) A Tourist Card or F.M.N. A Valid Proof Of Citizenship • Tourist Card This two part document is your "permission" from the Mexican government to visit Mexico . It is available free of charge, although sometimes difficult to obtain in large quantities. The airlines always have an ample supply upon check-in. Or, if all else fails, you can obtain one in Mexican Immigration upon arrival. Here are a few words of advice about tourist cards: Do not lose or deface the bottom portion returned to you after the immigration inspection. It must be returned to Mexican Immigration upon departure. TIP: Write down your tourist card number and keep it with your travel documents. If the card is lost, having the number will help greatly. Keep your tourist card and travel documents in a secure place. Do not carry them with you everywhere you go, unless traveling extensively from your point of arrival. You can ask to have your card validated for more time (up to 180 days) than you'll actually need. • Proof of Citizenship Note: information regarding entry requirements is subject to change without notice, and should be reconfirmed with the airline being used for international travel. U.S. Citizens may use one of the following for entry into Mexico: Valid Passport: This is the most recommended document - secure and convenient. Certified Birth Certificate: (hospital certificate is not acceptable). A birth certificate must include your given name and surname, date and place of birth, date the birth record was filed, and seal or other certification of the official custodian of such records (usually the Department of Health Services in the city where you were born). Brides will have an easier time if tickets are issued in their maiden name to match their documents. For U.S. airport security purposes the name on the driver's license and the name on the ticket must match. Women traveling with tickets in their married name whose driver's license (or state issued ID) is in their married name, but who are using a birth certificate as proof of citizenship will be fine as long as the first name and date of birth on their driver's license and their birth certificate match. Natural U.S. Citizens born outside the United States may use a Certificate of Citizenship, a Report of Birth Abroad, a Consular Report of Birth (Form FS-240) or Certification of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-545). U.S. Naturalization: If you claim citizenship through naturalization you may use your Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship or laminated Naturalization card. Note: Some airlines/charter companies may still accept the Notarized Affidavit of Citizenship or possibly a Voters Registration Card. Canadian versions of the above documents are acceptable; notarized affidavits must be executed in Canada . The "Canadian Identification Card" is an acceptable proof of citizenship document as well. Mexican Citizens Here the rules are a little more lenient, although Mexican nationals must have some official document proving Mexican birth. For one way travel any one of the following is accepted: Passport: may be expired Birth Certificate (Acta de Nacimiento) Consular registration form (Matrícula Consular) Military Service Card (Cartilla Militar) Voter's Registration Card (Cédula de Empadronamiento) For round trip travel Mexican nationals must have all three of the following: Valid Passport or valid Matrícula Consular Alien Registration Card or U.S. visa A Military Service Card if traveler is 18 years of age or older. If none of the above are available, the nearest Mexican Consulate will issue a "presunción de nacionalidad." Traveler must provide two passport size pictures to obtain the document. Remember, alien residents must have proof of U.S. residency to return to the States. Other Nationalities Most foreign citizens traveling to Mexico from the U.S. need a valid passport and U.S. "Alien Registration" card only. Contact the airlines serving Mexico or the Mexican Consulate for more details or specific situations. For Student Visas contact the Mexican Consulate in your area. Minors Any person under 18 years of age is considered a minor for travel purposes. Very strict regulations govern international travel by minors into Mexico . Every minor must have a tourist card, proof of citizenship and sometimes other documents listed below. Minors traveling with both legal parents or guardians: nothing else is needed. Minors traveling unaccompanied or with anyone other than their legal parents or guardians: they must obtain an original notarized letter of permission signed by both parents. Minors traveling with only one parent: must have notarized written permission from the other parent. (Airlines will also require the name, address and phone of the person meeting the unaccompanied minor upon arrival in Mexico .) In the case of deceased or divorced parents: legal proof must be carried to accept just one signature on the letter. This proof (death certificate, proof of sole custody etc.) can also be shown to a notary who can then notarize an Affidavit of Sole Custody form. EXCEPTION: Mexican children often have a stamp on their passports that reads, "El titular del presente pasaporte viaja de conformidad con El Articulo 421 del Codigo Civil Vigente." This allows the child to travel with only one parent and without a notarized statement. • Entering Mexico Your first stop is at Mexican Immigration (Migración) where proof of citizenship is inspected, and tourist cards are validated. DON'T LOSE YOUR TOURIST CARD! Next stop is at Customs (Aduana). Mexico has instituted a European-style customs inspection system, with a twist. Here's the way it works: Visitors complete a customs declaration form. Visitors choose to either declare or not declare that they are importing items beyond their allowance. Those declaring items have their belongings searched, and duty is collected. Those not declaring items are asked to push a button on a street traffic light that is mounted on a post inside thecustoms area. A green light allows you to pass without inspection. A red light will signal an inspection. In the event that items are found that were not declared, heavy fines and penalties apply. You are allowed to bring in any of the following: Personal items, e.g. clothing, footwear, toiletries, all in reasonable quantities according to trip duration. Books and magazines medicine for personal use, with medical prescription in the case of psychotropic substances. Used or second-hand sporting equipment One portable T.V. set, one portable typewriter, and one VCR. Up to 20 records or cassettes A musical instrument Fishing equipment, a pair of skis, and two tennis rackets Three liters of alcohol or wine, if carrier is over 18 years old 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars, if carrier is over 18 years old One movie camera and one regular camera, and up to 12 rolls of film • Returning to the U.S. and Canada You are allowed to enter free of duty any purchases with a combined value of up to USD $400.00 For Canada the amount is CD $500.00 IF travelers have been outside of Canada at least seven days. This allowance may be claimed every 30 days. With a verbal declaration a returning Canadian resident can claim duty-free entry for articles (excluding tobacco products or alcoholic beverages) that do not exceed a total value of CD $20.00 upon return from each trip of more than 24 hours. For the U.S. this limit does not include items listed on the Generalized System of Preferences List (G.S.P.), which are allowed in duty free. Contact the U.S. Treasury Department for a detailed list (Dept. of the Treasury, U.S. Customs Service, Washington , D.C. 20229 ). Upon Arrival By Air You will receive two forms to fill out before you can enter Mexico. These are normally distributed by the airlines either at the ticket counter or while in transit. I know every airline representative will appreciate this next tip: Bring a ball point pen, preferably black. Don't expect to borrow one. With more than 200 fellow passengers there are never enough to go around. The first form is your temporary visa. The form has recently changed and may not be exactly as shown here. They are in several languages, you'll need one per person. Familiarize yourself with this one to avoid embarrassing mistakes later. Upon arrival at the airport you will first go through Customs, which is a simple review of your documentation and warm greeting from the Mexican Government Official. These are nice people, really! Save the stamped copy of which you will receive to exit the country. Back to top Your tourist card will be endorsed for a 30 day stay. If planning to stay more than a couple weeks, be sure to ask for the maximum entry of 180 days. Applying for a longer stay can be a hassle once in Mexico. Play it safe! The second form is for Hacienda which sounds like a nice house to visit, but is actually the Customs and Taxation arm of the government. You will need one of these forms per family. After passing through Immigrations, go to thebaggage area and collect your bags then proceed to the exit. Depending on your destination and size of the airport some of the following may differ. Hand the form to the Customs Agent and push the button on the 'traffic light'. Yes, that's right, a traffic light. It is set up to randomly turn green for Go or red for Stop and Inspect. I've never seen it turn yellow, but you may. If you do get a red light, they will kindly ask to see the contents of your bags. I don't think it need be said here, but I will: Don't be so foolish as to bring something illegal into Mexico. You know what I mean! Driving If you are driving into Mexico, check with your auto insurance carrier. Most companies exclude coverage in a foreign country. If you are involved in a traffic accident: - Do not loose your temper. You're not in Kansas. - Do not leave the place of the accident. - Cooperate with the legal authorities. - Do not sign any agreements nor accept any liability. - Contact your Mexican insurance company immediately. For detailed information please read Driving Into Mexico article . When to Go The travel industry designates several business seasons during the year, High, Swing or Low. If you are coming from the Northern Climes, you probably consider winter the only time to visit. However, persons from others areas of North America, Europe and including the Mexican nationals find the rest of the year equally enjoyable. They also find it quite a bit more affordable. Take advantage of these somewhat arbitrary dates and save yourself some money. The difference between a High Season vacation and a Swing or Low, may be as little as one day and it could save you hundreds of dollars. Other vacationers just prefer the country when there are fewer tourists. Back to top Getting Around the Country Rental Car Rental cars are available from the major rental companies. To rent you must be at least 25 years of age, have a valid driver's license and a major credit card. Be sure to reserve your vehicle before you leave home; this will ensure you the lowest rate and availability. Driving Hitting the byways in a foreign land might sound challenging to some, but to many its their favorite means of getting involved. Especially if you live in the southern reaches of the US, driving deep into Mexico is less than 48 hours away. Gasoline is available at stations throughout Mexico. It is sold in liters (3.78 liters = 1 gallon). Magna Sin (green pumps) is unleaded. Prices are about the same as in the U.S. Only cash is accepted and there is no self service (tips are customary for gasoline attendants). Most stations close by 10 PM. The highway systems between major cities is modern and similar to the freeways further North. What makes them unique is their dependence on toll funding rather than taxation to pay the development cost. So, you should expect to 'pay as you go'. Have a hefty handful of small bills available so you'll encounter no problems with making change. Auto insurance is a MUST, whether you are driving a rental car or your own. Don't expect your hometown agent to supply you with a policy that will be valid in Mexico. Most insurance companies explicitly exclude foreign countries from their coverage. If you have a question, contact your carrier. You will find insurance vendors on both sides of the border crossings. A better idea is to set up your insurance before you go. You might also find that it can be considerably cheaper to do it this way. Major highways are patrolled by Los Angeles Verdes (Green Angels). These government-operated pickup trucks are driven by mechanics . To date, Mexico is the only country with this service. It's free, except for parts and gas! Buses Mexico has a vast inter-city bus system that offers inexpensive, timely and convenient transportation. There are two grades of buses: First Class, with air conditioning and possibly a TV, and a stewardess serving soft drinks and snacks. And Second Class- with no frills. As Second Class costs slightly less than First Class, we recommend you go with First Class. Within the metropolitan centers buses offer the natives their primary means of transportation. For the tourist these can be a bit daunting at first, but when viewed with fun and adventure in mind, they can certainly add color and memories to your vacation. Train Train travel can be safer and more enjoyable than a trip by bus, but considerably more expensive. As with bus service, we recommend you pay for the highest class of travel available. Primera Especial class is recommended for day trips and the top-of-the-line Pullman compartments for overnight travel. Pullman service offers sleeping compartments suitable for one (camarin) or two (alcoba). Each converts to a comfortable sitting room during the day. Back to top Weather Considerations Mexico is made up of several different regions, each with its own type of seasonal weather, climate, altitude and terrain dictating what you will need to be prepared and comfortable. Generally, rains fall and temperatures rise from June through October, leaving November through May as the more temperate, drier season. Here's a regional climate overview: - Northern Baja California Despite the desert landscape, this region resembles Southern California: mild winters with a little rain; warm, dry summers. The Sea of Cortes tends to be warmer than the Pacific side of the peninsula. Annual average temperature: 68 degrees F or 20 degrees C. - Southern Baja California A subtropical desert, with over 350 days of sunshine a year, cool winter evenings, low humidity, sea breezes. Summer temperatures can be high, Generally cooler on the Pacific side. Annual average temperature: 77 degrees F or 25 degrees C. - Northwest Coast Similar to Northern Baja, but with more rain and some storms. Annual average temperature: 68 degrees F or 20 degrees C. - West Coast Also known as the Mexican Riviera, it has warm tropical weather year round. Warm, dry days and balmy evenings from November through May. The rainy season is June through October, with daily rain showers and warm temperatures. Annual average temperature: 77 degrees F or 27 degree C. - Central Plateau Due to higher elevation, it has pleasant spring-like conditions most of the year. Rain is frequent from June through September. Evenings can be quite cool in winter. Annual average temperature: 65 degrees F or 18 degrees C. - The Yucatan Peninsula In this region, proximity to the coast determines temperature and humidity. In summer, Gulf and Caribbean areas stay cooler due to trade winds, while interior jungles are humid, with higher temperatures. Rainfall is frequent from April through May and September through January; temperatures can be higher. September and October sometimes bring overcast or rainy conditions. Winters are very pleasant. Annual average temperature: 80 degrees F or 27 degrees C. - The Gulf Coast Somewhat humid, with warmer temperatures. Rainfall and cool brisk northerly winds (nortes) from September through February. Annual average temperature: 72 degrees F or 21 degrees C. Back to top What to Bring Be sure to include the following in your suitcase: - A pocket-size English/Spanish dictionary - A small first aid kit - Camera and Film - Walking Shoes - Suntan Lotion - Traveler's Checks & ATM cards - Swim Suits - Casual Dress Clothes for Nightlife and Fine Dining - Copies of your favorite Mexico Travel Guide pages! - Sunglasses & Hat - Necessary medications - Passport/Birth Certificate & Driver's License Health Tips In your quest for a good time on your vacation, your eating and drinking habits are often radically different than what you're used to back home. In addition, climate and altitude changes can throw your system off. To ensure you enjoy your vacation to its fullest, consider the following: Be sure to drink lots of fluids; especially the day before arriving. Try not to go overboard your first night. Give your body a chance to acclimate. Drink only distilled or bottled water. When buying fresh fruits and vegetables, be sure to wash them with distilled or bottled water before eating; peel them if possible. Back to top Money, Exchange & Credit The Mexican economy operates on the rise and fall of the Peso. While most businesses will accept foreign currency, especially US dollars, using pesos is your best bet. Foreign currency can be exchanged at one of many casas de cambio (exchange houses). Mexican banking hours are normally Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 P.M. however for money exchange the hours time are normally from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Casas de cambio are open later than most banks and they generally offer quicker service. Credit cards are widely accepted, with Visa, MasterCard, and American Express being the most popular. Check for Current Exchange Rate: Use Xenon Labs' currency exchange calculator to check the Mexican New Peso against your currency. Clicking on the search button will retrieve the current exchange rate for nearly 50 currencies. The rates are usually no more than a couple of days old. MXP Mexican Pesos Tips for Senior Travelers Retired travelers have a great advantage in planning their vacations. There are many advantages to having the freedom to plan a vacation without the hassles of work schedules. Many older travelers find that their favorite times to travel to Mexico are in off season months when there is less demand and less traffic through the resort cities. Usually the summer months are the least in demand due to high temperatures. This can be an advantage if you enjoy shopping and organized tours more than spending time at the beach. Most shops and tour buses are air-conditioned, so the heat shouldn't be much of a concern. The reduced numbers of tourists in the summer months makes getting around much easier, and there is usually more peace and quiet at night. There are a number of discount packages and group tour options for seniors. Your travel agent should have a list of the discounts that you're entitled to in the city that you'll be visiting. There are a number of senior citizens tour clubs that offer members the opportunity to go on tours with a familiar group of people in an organized tour that provides everything that you'll need. There are many senior citizen tour organizations across the nation, most of which your travel agent should be able to provide information about. Even if you don't like traveling in groups or with organized tours, you are entitled to a number of senior citizens discounts. When booking hotel reservations, always mention that you're a senior and ask about discount rates. At restaurants, mention it when you order, not afterward. Many places will refuse the discount if you don't mention it before a reservation or an order has been made. The infrastructure in Mexico is not as well-developed as it is in some countries. If you have a disability, you may find it difficult getting around some parts of Mexico. There are few wheelchair ramps and wheelchair access bathrooms in Mexico currently. In some cities, there aren't even stairway handrails. The sidewalks are typically narrower and aren't maintained as well. If you have any problems getting around, speak with your travel agent about the state of the city you'll be traveling to. Your travel agent should also be able to provide information about hotels which offer accommodations for people with disabilities. If you aren't content just to visit Mexico, it is possible to retire to Mexico permanently. Please click here to see an overview of how to begin the process of retiring to Mexico. 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