Mexico is home to one of the wonders of the world, Chichen Itza, while the Historic Centre of Mexico City is another renowned attraction.
The Chapultepec park and Riviera Maya, meanwhile, display the beauty of Mexico.
Mexico can be accessed only by airplane given its 5,225-mile distance from the United Kingdom.
Getting to Mexico City
Flying from Birmingham to Mexico City, the capital of Mexico, takes around 15 hours on average. Regardless of where you are visiting in Mexico, you should expect to be in the air a long time and to be medicating on board the plane.
If you are unsure as to how to manage your diabetes while in the air then you should discuss a plan with your diabetic specialist.
Time zones
Mexico uses three different time zones, so it is wise to assess the time difference of your destination before landing to assess your medication plan.
Climate
Certain areas of Mexico tend to have different climates, but generally Mexico is a very warm country with exceptionally hot summers. Travellers with diabetes visiting Mexico should carefully research what temperatures to expect during their stay.
People who treat their diabetes with insulin should regularly check their blood sugar levels as insulin absorption can be enhanced in warmer temperatures.
You could consider reducing your dosages if you are planning periods of physical activity and are worried about hypoglycemia.
Currency
The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso. Money can be exchanged once in Mexico, but you are more likely to secure rates if you collect your currency prior to arrival.
Vaccinations
There are no mandatory vaccinations to enter Mexico, however some are recommended. You should consult your doctor eight weeks prior to your departure in order to receive the vaccinations in time.
All travellers are recommended to get vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, which can both be contracted through contaminated food or water.
Some travellers are also recommended to receive vaccinations for other diseases, including hepatitis B and rabies, which can be carried by dogs, bats and other mammals in Mexico.
Ensuring access to medication
UK citizens with diabetes will not be entitled to any free medication services while in Mexico. Securing comprehensive medical insurance will be essential in order to obtain even basic treatment
Diabetic medication is available in Mexico, but payment will be required from all pharmacies. Blood and urine testing kits are available from pharmacies in Mexico.
The emergency services telephone number to be called in Mexico is 065.
It is worth checking with the manufacturer of your meter in the UK if the particular equipment you require is available in Mexico beforehand and if it is sold under any different names.
Insulin
You should note which syringes are available in Mexico, with U-100 syringes the most commonly used.
The vast majority of insulin in the UK is U-100 insulin. If you need to take a different strength of insulin, say in an emergency, it’s important that you use the correct device and syringes for that insulin.
For example, you would use a U-40 syringe for U-40 insulin. You will need to work with a doctor getting the right dose if you’re using a different form of insulin.
Diabetes associations
It is important to note the diabetes associations in the country you are travelling to in case of an emergency.
There are two diabetic associations in the Mexico, which are:
- Federacion Mexicana de Diabetes, Pomona No 15, 6700 Mexico City DF, Mexico Tel: +5255-5511 4200 Email: [email protected]
- Sociedad Mexicana de Nutricion y Endocrinologia, Ohio no 27, Col El Rosedal, Del Coyoacá, 04330 Mexico DF, Mexico Tel: +52-55-53362216, 53369072 Email: [email protected]
Questions
- How is blood glucose measured in Mexico? Blood glucose levels are measured in mg/dl
- What language is spoken in Mexico? Spanish. Locals will have a grasp of English, but it will pay to learn some basic Spanish phrases to assist in your day-to-day activities.
- Will I need an international driving license when driving in Mexico? Yes
- If I want to hire a vehicle during my visit, will I face any form of discrimination? No
- What sugar free drinks are available in Mexico? Diet Coke, Diet Sprite and others, depending on the establishment
