I’m planning on traveling through Mexico and Central America for a few weeks in the spring and am wondering about the availability of wireless Internet connections in the major cities. Do you have any tips for me?
Well, I haven’t traveled much in Mexico, so I asked someone who lives in Mexico for some advice. Here’s what he shared:
It’s actually very simple; wifi systems and hotspots are readily available in Mexico, at least.
First, turn on computer to see if you get signal. If you do, great! You’re in!
Failing that; go to any Mcdonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s etc. Most major hotels are wired and many American-based high traffic business locations (Starbucks, etc.) where there is a preponderance of Northerners or foreigners also provide hotspots.
If you are in a remote area and the above locations are not available then you’ll want to check a search engines for “hotspots (city)” or “wifi” access. For example, Google “Veracruz wifi hotspots” to find information on hotspots in Veracruz.
You can expect to pay a deposit of 300-500 pesos and 300 pesos ($30) per month, depending on the area. Example; e-go provides wifi access at home in Mexico city, Monterey and Guadalahara.
Fortunately, the Internet vocabulary is universally identical (ie; wifi… hotspots) all are “no problemo” in Mexico!)
Generally, though, the availabilty of hotspots is about 2 years behind North America, simply due to the distribution and availability of the satelite link-ups. But you shouldn’t have any difficulty.
Also, regarding Internet cafes: My suggestion is to simply ask someone on the street, or in your hotel as to the closest location. They will know.
I hope this helps diffuse the any concerns you may have about traveling through Mexico and staying in touch with the Internet!
Thanks, “Bobby Bizarro”, for your insight. Bobby runs an amusing and rather not-workplace-friendly site Silly English, if you’ve some time to waste. 🙂