Pineapple Pen?

Have a pen on your person - be the envy of your fellow travellers.

You'll be required to complete an immigration form (handed out on the plane shortly before landing in Mexico).

Keep hold of your immigration form because you'll need to return it upon departure from Mexico.

Pay your taxes!

Visitors to Mexico are required to pay 3 separate Taxes:

1. Departure Tax (the largest amount)

If you're staying at RIU Tequila (all inclusive) this is already included - so nothing you need to worry about.

It is mandatory for persons occupying a seat on the aircraft pay this Tax. The tax is usually around £50 per person, or 1,234.26 pesos, but prices may change. This Tax can be paid in cash at check-in using sterling, pesos, or dollars.

2. Environmental Tax - Paid at your hotel when you check out

30-70 MXN per ROOM, per night (current exchange rate: fluctuates between £1.16 and £2.71)

3. Tourist Tax - Paid via the official website (https://www.visitax.gob.mx/sitio)

This currently costs 271 MXN (£10.50) per person (including all children/infants).

Download receipt or take a screenshot of the QR code confirmation and be prepared to present it (You will be required to at the airport, also in Duty Free)

Be sure to use the official website (above) - there are convincing scam/fraudulent websites around.

Not in Kansas anymore

Cancun airport is extremely busy and you would do well to expect a long wait to pass through Passport control; then another long wait at baggage reclaim. Before you can exit the building your luggage will need to pass through an x-ray machine at customs. Green light: you're good to go. Red: Customs officers will want to search your bags... Supposedly, this light system is completely random.

Airport Transfers to RIU Tequila

Expect to be approached by taxi drivers trying to get your fare. Look them in the eyes and say "No, gracias", and keep walking.

Once outside, approach a TUI Representative (dressed in TUI uniform, holding a clipboard). Tell them your hotel name "RIU Tequila", and they will tell you which bus (number) will take you there.

Put your luggage on the bus, then ask the driver or staff for his estimated departure time. If you have more than 20 minutes - consider a sometimes-not-so-bad margarita at the bar you passed on your way to the bus.

In moderate traffic, the journey to Playa Car (RIU Tequila) will take just under an hour.

Tipping is not a city in China

There is a tipping culture in Playa del Carmen

Arrival at RUI Tequila

Grab your luggage from the bus driver

Leave your luggage at reception - the bellhop will take it to your room

Expect a non-alcoholic refreshment at reception where you will want to check-in (and get you wristband).

- MORE TO COME -

Photos