Astrophysics

Local Information

Money

The Mexican currency is the peso ($). The present exchange rate with the U.S. dollar is about $16. Please make sure you have some pesos with you before leaving the Mexico City airport, where there are plenty of currency exchange offices. Once in Mexico, not all places take USA dollars or traveler’s checks. Foreign credit cards are accepted in major restaurants, stores, and hotels. Best exchange rates are found in Casas de Cambio (exchange houses) open only on weekdays, usually from 9 am to 5 pm. Most banks open only on weekdays, also from 9 am to 5 pm. The airport has 24 hour money exchange counters. USA cash or traveler’s checks are easier to change into pesos than other types of currency.

Weather

Puebla is located at an altitude of 2200 meters (7100 feet). There is usually no rain during the spring, but it gets rainy during the summer and about the middle of autumn. The temperature varies from some 30 C (85-90 F) in the daytime to about 10 C (50 F) in the morning, and it can get cool at night.

Language

Spanish is the official language in Mexico. Very few people speak English, we advise you to have a good dictionary and a phrasebook when you venture out.

Food

Mexican cuisine is among the best in the world, but those visiting for the first time should take some warnings. There are some spicy sauces (salsas picantes) which could be very aggressive to unaware mouths: before adding any sauce to your food, try a small amount of it in a piece of bread. Also, to avoid diarrhea (or any other stomach disease), drink only bottled water and do not eat raw fruits or vegetables without skin.

Accommodation and food at INAOE

Rooms are usually reserved for workshop attendants. We will reserve you a room as soon as we have your departure and arrival dates. Breakfast and lunch during weekdays are provided inside the premises of INAOE.

Mexican culture and archeological sites in the region