Top 10 Tips for Navigating Mexico City's Benito Juarez International Airport
10. Change your money at the airport.
The arrivals hall has numerous currency exchange booths, some associated with banks and others independently operated. The exchange rate at the airport tends to be quite competitive, but the rate ranges considerably-- walk around a bit to check rates before making your decision.
9. Take only authorized taxis.
One of the most serious safety problems for tourists and locals in Mexico City is kidnapping, which often occurs when individuals posing as taxi drivers pick up unsuspecting customers. Avoid this by taking only authorized taxis. When you get to the arrivals hall, go to door #10 and choose one of the taxi stands there. You'll pay your fare in advance and get a voucher for your trip. I recommend Sitio 300, which tends to have the best rate. You can visit their website at www.taxisdelaeropuerto.com.mx.
8. Take the train.
If your luggage is light, you might want to take the Metro, which is extremely affordable at just 2 pesos per trip. Avoid the common mistake of taking the pink #1 line's "Boulevard Puerto Aereo," which is actually a 15 minute walk from the airport, choosing the "Terminal Aerea" stop on the yellow #5 line instead, which is just outside the main terminal.
7. Rent a car.
Many rental car companies in Mexico City do not accept debit cards. One exception is Advantage Rent a Car, which is near door #8 in the main terminal. You can even book with them through www.expedia.com.
6. Terminal Two: Know before you go.
On January 15, 2008, the airport opened Terminal 2, from which all Aeromexico flights are now operating. There is an airtrain linking the two terminals, but it is a bit of a haul from Terminal 1. What's more, if you don't already have a ticket printed out, you may not be able to board the airtrain. Bottom line: give yourself more time than normal if you're flying Aeromexico. If you can't board the train, there are some white vans outside Terminal 1 that will take you to Terminal 2 for free-- but they operate somewhat sporadically and are NOT a good option for last minute jaunts from one terminal to the other.
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