by Michele Van Pelt

Created on: May 24, 2007

If you are planning a trip to Mexico, there are a few things you should take into consideration if you want to have a healthy experience. Although much of Mexico is working on developing a better water system, such as Puerta Vallarta, there is still a need to be wary if you don't want to get "Montezuma's Revenge".

"Montezuma's Revenge" is a very uncomfortable condition of having all or some of the following symptoms: diarrhea, vomiting, and nauseousness. I am sure if you are vacation, the last thing you want to do is to spend your time stuck being sick in your hotel room. To avoid this problem, the first thing I would suggest is always drinking bottled water. Period. No exceptions. Also, don't brush your teeth with tap water. Used bottled water if you need to.

You also have to remember though, that even if you aren't drinking water, water is used with other foods/beverages. For example, if you are ordering a cocktail or soda, do not get ice. Even if it means you have to drink it warm. Do not eat the skin of fruits such as apples or grapes. Even if they have been thoroughly washed, what have they been washed in? Water of course. Personally, I would also avoid salads as the lettuce would have been washed in water. Basically, I would avoid anything that has been washed or rinsed in water and your want to put it in your mouth.

It is also best to eat at restaurants that are in the main are of the town if not just the ones at your hotel or resort. They tend to be scrutinzed a little bit more then some of the little ones in the countryside. I'm not saying all restaurants are bad, it is just if you are susceptible to getting sick, you should be overly cautious.

Lastly, if in the worse case scenario you do get sick, I would advise let it run its course. My doctor had given me medication that kept me from being overly sick, but it kept everything inside of me. I felt that if I had just suffered for the 24 hours this usually lasts, I would have been better off in the long run.

Mexico is a beautiful country with a lot of things to offer the tourist. Just remember to be wise, don't drink tap water or eat anything you think may have been washed in water. If you follow these tips, you should have a happy, healthy trip.

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