Frequently Asked Questions

Las Palmas doesn't accept credit cards, how do I pay?
You'll find more places on the island are accepting credit cards however there is an added fee. Most of our guests have an amount in cash set aside for their accommodations, and other larger vacation costs. An inexpensive money belt will do the trick to keep your cash safe. For the rest of your spending around the island, pesos are your best bet. It's very easy and convenient to withdraw at any of the ATMs around the downtown. Be sure to take out a larger amount as there is a transaction fee.

What about a safe for my passport or valuables?
We do not have individual room safes, but we have a safe in our reception/office. Items can be stored there, in a bag with your room # and name.

What about electricity for charging my phone, etc? Do I need any special converters?
Mexico has the same 120 volts power and wall outlets as the USA and Canada. If you are arriving from Europe or the East with electrical items that require power ranges from 220 to 240 volts, you will need a power/plug converter.

Will I find food that I like?
Isla Mujeres is rich with flavours from all over the world, literally... and all of this is found within short walks from our hotel. Anything and everything including fresh seafood, steak, pasta, vegan and vegetarian, fresh juices, Mediterranean, Italian, sushi, Chinese, modern and traditional Mexican, pub fare, sports bars, etc, etc... The amount of wonderful options, all within walking distance, is one of many reasons why people that come to Isla Mujeres come back, and often.

Is there a bank on the island?
Yes, there are several banks and they allow you to change upto $300 USD cash into pesos. The best way to access cash is to use your ATM card to withdraw cash from the local bank machines. All the banks are within walking distance and we can point you in the right direction. Azteca Bank is right down the street from us and open 7 days a week and changes USD into pesos. You will need to show your passport and they do not have an ATM. ATMs are found at other banks which include the HSBC, across from the ferry, CIBanco right down Medina a couple of blocks and Banorte towards the ferry from the square. There are also several ATMs around the downtown in the Super Aki grocery store and at Chedraui, so lots to be found. If you do still want to exchange money, the money exchange right at the ferry is often the quickest place to change money. No passport is needed and you can change up to $1000. But as with most currency exchanges the exchange rate may be higher than the banks.

Can I get a Mexican SIM card on the Island?
We have an internet/phone store on the island and they can help with any local data plans while you are in Mexico. We also have free wireless internet at Las Palmas and it works in most areas of our hotel, with a booster to give a good signal to our roof top rooms but due to our concrete structure, the hotel does have some dry spots.

Where can I get laundry done on the island?
There are a number of Lavanderias (laundromats) around the island and they offer great service. It's by the kilo and very reasonably priced. They'll separate by colours if you like, and it all comes back dried and folded neatly in a bag. They're very honest and reliable and count every item with you to make sure you get the same number back.

How do I get around Isla Mujeres?
The north end of the island houses the downtown (centro) and is where North Beach (Playa Norte) is located. Everything is walking distance here: restaurants, pharmacy, groceries, music, drinks, beach, Las Palmas. There are great things to do around the rest of the island and renting a golf cart or moped are popular choices. Otherwise you can take a cab, rent bicycles or walk. The new buses are a popular choice. Last we checked for 20 pesos you can go to the Punta Sur or for 80 pesos you can hop on hop off.

What about speaking Spanish?
Isla Mujeres has a very friendly and warm culture. It's very welcomed and polite to say 'Hola' or 'buenos días' as you pass people walking. Most of the establishments will have at least one person with some English. Many of the locals may want to practise their English with you! And there is some fun to trying out your Spanish, as everyone is quite forgiving. Things like menus and brochures will usually have an English side.

What if I have a medical emergency or need to see a doctor?
Mexico has a great medical system. You can choose to see a private doctor who will come to the hotel for approximately 500 pesos for a visit. All of the doctors are highly trained and the facilities are up to date. There are also, many pharmacies on the island and the pharmacist can help you with most minor issues.

I have extra stuff that I plan to donate. Is it a good idea to bring it to the island?
Absolutely! If you have spare room in your suitcase to bring items from home, it would be greatly appreciated here on the island.

Families benefit from items including school supplies and household items, like a spare lamp for example. If you have used clothing in good condition, consider bringing some in your suitcase. Locals here love running shoes, and often have only one pair of sandals. So, any shoes that are are ‘gently used’ would be a real nice gift.

If this interests you and you have room in your suitcase, we recommend having a look around your home to see the things that you want to donate while feeling great about contributing to a community that has much less. Many of our guests also love this because it serves to clean up their homes too. A win win!