San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico

• San Cristóbal sits at 7,200 feet, so bring layers - mornings and nights get cold even in summer. The altitude will hit you for the first day or two until you adjust. The city has a mix of indigenous culture and backpacker cafes, with Tzotzil and Tzeltal women selling textiles in the markets while digital nomads camp out in coffee shops.
• English works in tourist-heavy spots like the cafes and hostels along Real de Guadalupe, but you'll need basic Spanish for most interactions. The cobblestone streets are walkable though slippery when wet, which happens a lot during rainy season.
• It ranks #23 safest in Mexico. Police are visible in the historic center since tourism is the main industry. Taxis are safe and cheap - around $2 anywhere in town - though calling for one after dark is smarter than hailing on the street.
• Sitting alone in cafes with a laptop or book is normal here, which makes it easy for people traveling alone. Colectivos (shared vans) cost 8 pesos and run fixed routes throughout the city. Just know those cobblestones are everywhere and your ankles will feel it.

Spanish is the main language. English works at tourist cafes, hostels around Real de Guadalupe, and some tour operators. Almost no English elsewhere. The emergency line 911 has some English-speaking operators. You'll need at least basic Spanish to get around.

• Don't photograph indigenous people without asking first. In villages like San Juan Chamula, photography inside the church is completely banned. Take this seriously - it's a real cultural boundary, not just a suggestion.
• Dress is casual and bohemian in the tourist areas. Tank tops and shorts are fine in the centro, but bring respectful clothes for churches and indigenous communities.
• Almost no one speaks English outside the tourist cafes and hostels. Learn at least: 'hola', 'gracias', 'por favor', 'disculpe', and '¿cuánto cuesta?' (how much does it cost?). Google Translate gets a workout here.
• Things move slowly. Breakfast is 8-10am, lunch 1-3pm, dinner after 7pm. A lot of small restaurants close Sundays or Mondays. Tip 10-15% at restaurants.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Emergency Services: 911. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• The historic center is small - most things are within 15-20 minutes on foot. Wear shoes with good tread because the cobblestones get slippery after rain.
• Colectivos (shared vans) run fixed routes for 8 pesos per ride (about $0.40 USD). The route is painted on the windshield. You can hop on or off anywhere along the route. Cash only.
• Taxis cost around $2 anywhere in town, $2.50 after midnight. Call for one rather than hailing on the street after dark. Uber and DiDi both work here.
• The altitude at 7,200 feet will tire you out faster, so don't plan on walking as much as you normally would. Drink more water than you think you need.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore San Cristóbal de las Casas with local guides and curated experiences.