FAQs
Maybe you’ve been to Mexico before... maybe you’ve even been to Ixtapa before. For those who have not or are just curious, here are the answers
to some of the most frequently asked questions about our condo,
Ixtapa, and international travel to Mexico:
1.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
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While the BVGM facilities do state that the tap water has been treated, we recommend drinking only purified water (that’s why we disconnected the water dispenser built into the refrigerator). For your convenience and safety, we’ve provided you with a 5-gallon bottle and dispenser in the kitchen area. If you need another 5-gallon bottle, please contact the reception desk. The cost of an additional bottle is approximately 40 pesos, payable upon receipt.
If you want to be uber careful, use the purified water when brushing your teeth or when washing fruits and vegetables. When in restaurants, order bottled water and do not put ice in your drink.
2.
Do I need to worry about theft?
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Just like any other place in the world, there’s always a risk of something being stolen. Take the necessary precautions, and do what you can to keep your items secure. Do not draw attention to your items of value when in public places, such as the beach or the marketplace. And, don’t wander in “sketchy” parts of town.
RFID theft is increasingly commonplace in Mexico, so we suggest that you protect your credit cards (and your passport) when in public places. For your convenience, we’ve given you a key to a lockable drawer in the master bedroom closet.
3.
What’s the deal with the wastebasket next to the toilet?
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When you are out and about in Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, you may notice that there are wastebaskets next to the toilets and that are filled with toilet paper. That’s because there are places throughout the country where the pipes are so narrow that they cannot accommodate toilet paper. (I don’t think we need to say more here.) Note that you are safe to flush tp at BVGM; but please place any flushable wipes and other items in the wastebasket.
4.
Can I negotiate in the open air markets?
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Yes, no, and maybe. Anyone who has taken Spanish in school has probably learned that you can negotiate your price in the open air marketplaces. However, lately we’ve noticed that the vendors are fairly firm on their prices. But, feel free to give it a try!
5.
What are those flexible plastic or rubber circles over the drains?
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If you haven’t seen them yet, you will. They may be in the condo, or in a public restroom. They resemble the old school rubber grippers that you use to open a jar. Believe it or not, these are used to cover the drains. Because of the warm and humid climate, sometimes an unfortunate smell or little creatures may come up through the drain. To avoid this, drains are kept covered, except when in use.