Taking the bumps out of bus travel in Mexico
You'll probably need a taxi from the bus station to your hotel. Take only licensed, legitimate taxis by buying a ticket at a kiosk within the bus station, when possible. In the large terminals, taxis line up outside just as they do at airports. There is less of a problem with theft and illegitimate taxis in small towns and villages.
A good starting point is Mexico City, because you can get a good deal on airfare from the states to there. Buses leave frequently to all points in Mexico from the city's major terminals — north, south, east and west. Tell your cab driver where you are going, and he'll know the right terminal. Buses also run often from other large cities, such as Guadalajara, and tourist areas, such as Puerto Vallarta, Matzalan, Acapulco and Cancun.
Reservations aren't necessary, except during Mexican holidays, when buses might be full.
In some of the modern terminals, you'll be shown a diagram of the bus, and you must choose a seat. Position of television screens are indicated on the diagram.
Don't expect ticket agents to speak English. Most don't. If you don't speak Spanish, print your destination clearly on a piece of paper and hand it to the clerk. Bus schedules are posted at the ticket counters. Double check departure times and gate numbers by having ticket agents write them down for you.
Bring water and snacks. Sometimes, vendors board the buses selling drinks, packaged snacks and home-cooked dishes, but not always. Sometimes, drivers stop for a short time at a snack bar, but not always.
Have your passport easily accessible. Police board buses as often as every couple of hours in some parts. This is Mexico's fight against drugs, I'm told. The uniformed officer may request identification. Passports are preferable. In his book, Carl Franz says officials also spot check driver capability and credentials. Comforting.
Carry small pesos — five-, 10- and 20-denomination — for tipping porters and for purchasing coffee, sandwiches, etc. in terminals. Porters meet every bus, in my experience. Without them, I couldn't have maneuvered around the large stations. I tip according to service rendered, time of day, etc. Arriving alone in Guadalajara in the middle of the night, I gave a very helpful old man 20 pesos (about $2.50). As he guided me to the appropriate counter, he told me there are seven terminals within this bus station. He helped me find the best bus to
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