Street signs are black on white. Streets often change names every few blocks. Watch for the small blue and white transito (direction) and green and white preferencia (right of way) signs on the walls of buildings at corners. Traffic is regulated by lights at most intersections; at others a policeman may be stationed in the center. When he faces you or has his back to you, you must stop; when he turns his side to you, you may proceed.
Traffic and security police wear light blue uniforms. A small flag on the chest or shoulder of an officer's shirt indicates that he speaks the language of the country the flag represents. Official car watchers, whose only pay is in tips, are clad in khaki.
As you enter the city on a major highway you may be accosted by individuals who offer to guide you to your destination. Mexican travel authorities strongly recommend that you do not employ these or any other unauthorized guides.
It is important to park your car in a safe place because Mexican car insurance doesn't cover the loss of component parts. When you park on the street or in a parking lot even when an attendant is in charge and you lock up the car don't ever leave clothing, cameras, or other valuables exposed inside the car; lock them in the trunk or, even better, take them with you.
The Metro: fast and convenient
For a glimpse of some of the archaeological finds, get off at the Pino Suarez station where a small, round Aztec pyramid was left in place in the terminal lobby. Unlike some dark, dreary underground tubes, the Metro is well lighted and gaily decorated.
Buses bargain travel to almost anywhere
Buses are still one of the most convenient ways to travel in the city provided you know your way around. They serve almost every section of the capital, but will take at least twice as long as a taxi. Ask about bus routes at your hotel, Bus stops are indicated by a small, elevated sign with the word parada on it. Fares are very low, and service is usually available until midnight.
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A tour of Mexico City, the country's capital, can be telescoped to fit into almost any tight vacation schedule. Or you can slowly savor and meticulously explore the city with its metropolitan population of 13 million if your time is unlimited. Mexico City lies in a mountain rimmed valley 7,400 feet above sea level. On a rare clear day, you can see the snow capped volcanic peaks of 17,591 foot lztaccihuatl and majestic 17,893 foot Popocatepetl about 35 miles to the southeast.
With all of its big city problems, Mexico City can hold its own along with any exotic foreign city. It is a place of hustle and bustle; its charm lies in its profusion of color and sound.
Mexico City marks the beginning and end of all major highways. Kilometers to anywhere in the country are measured from this city.
Getting around
For greater enjoyment of the myriad delights of Mexico City, read up on it before you go. If you're the independent type, you may prefer to wander through the city armed with a guidebook, a map, an English Spanish dictionary, and your own self inspired itinerary. On the other hand, at your hotel or any travel agency you can engage the services of an official, government authorized guide (ask to see his credentials) who will take you in his car, or drive yours, wherever you wish to go.
To get advice, assistance, and helpful literature, or to register complaints on prices or services, consult one of the two following agencies: the Ministry of Tourism, or the Tourism Department of the Mexico City Chamber of Commerce.
Public transportation buses and the Metro system is inexpensive, and satisfactory once you learn your way around. Taxis vary in type and rates, and will give you more flexibility than public transport.
The automobile patience and courage:
At first, Mexico City traffic is apt to dampen your enthusiasm for driving. Streets in the older sections of town are narrow, one way, and congested, On the wider streets cars move fast, and the traffic circles at intersections along many main thoroughfares may give you the sensation of being caught in a revolving door. Taxi drivers, darting in and out of traffic with split second judgment, are particularly skillful at sizing up the intentions of others. Bicycle and motorcycle riders who weave between cars are a constant menace in traffic. As in many European cities, motorists sometimes use only their parking lights when driving at night.