CROSS COUNTRY BUS TRAVEL. Bus travel in Mexico can be efficient, economical and comfortable. The main consideration when contemplating bus travel is the distances involved. Mexico is a big country! Travelers can literally get to anywhere in Mexico by bus as almost every town has at least one bus stop. Larger cities obviously have numerous bus stops. There are different bus classes, from the luxury to the “Gallineros” (chicken buses). Luxury – “De Lujo / Ejecutivos”: These buses are the highest quality with comfortable reclining seats and often have snacks or drinks for their customers to enjoy on long trips. Some also have televisions and provide headphones so that passengers can enjoy a movie while they travel. First Class – “Primera Clase”: These buses may offer all the amenities of plus-class. The first-class bus will probably take the secondary road instead of the toll road, which translates into a longer ride. Second Class – “Segunda Clase”: These buses offer service between smaller towns. Amenities are few, but fares are cheap, and the trip is always interesting. There are many companies to choose from and in most Mexican bus stations, each line has its own ticket agent. CITY BUSES Local bus service is very similar to American city buses; it may be called “colectivo” or “microbus”. Most buses follow an established route and if you have any doubts about your destination you can always ask the driver what bus to take. Local buses exist in every city and town. They are not regulated from a safety point of view, so don't expect to see any signs restricting passenger numbers on them. Buses carry as many people as can be packed in - especially at rush hour. Don't be shocked to see people hanging out of the doors during peak times - both front and back - this is a normal sight in Mexico. In order to get into one you have to step in a corner and raise a hand when you see your bus approaching. To get off the bus you can tell the diver “En la esquina por favor” or “bajan” and he will stop in the next corner. They have very low prices and is better if you bring Mexican pesos coins to pay (They may not have change if you pay with a bill).
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