	The Mexican Adventurers' Companion
1600 W. Coast Hwy. · Newport Beach, CA 92663 (949) 548-8931 Email

SOUTH OF THE BORDER
MEXICO HAS ALWAYS BEEN A GREAT ESCAPE FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIANS AS WELL AS VISITORS FROM ALL OVER THE UNITED STATES. WE RECEIVE MANY QUESTIONS FROM THESE TRAVELERS WHETHER THEY TRAVEL BY AIR, CAR, TRAIN, YACHT.

SOME OF THESE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Q.	Do I need auto insurance when driving into Mexico?
A.	Mexican law requires that you have insurance issued by a Mexican insurance company if you are involved in an accident while in Mexico. Mexico does not recognize any insurance unless written by a Mexican company. So you should carry at least liability in order to be legal in case of an accident. Also, most U.S. companies will only provide coverage to a distance of 60 miles beyond the border (you should check with your company).
Q.	Can I use a friends car or rent a car take it to Mexico?
A.	In using another car is not registered in your name, you must. have a form notarized from the registered owner giving permission for you to take the auto into Mexico. Most rental companies will not allow a car to cross the border, however, Avis will allow this at this time from San Diego.
Q.	Is there plenty of gasoline available?
A.	In Baja California gasoline can at times be scarce. You Should always "Cap Off" whenever possible in order not to be stranded. There are enough stations, however, at times they run out of gasoline before a delivery. They also have no lead "extras" which works fine. "Regular" is another story as this could ruin your engine!
Q.	Can I trailer my 29' boat down the Baja highway?
A.	Yes, However, the highway is narrow and has many trucks traveling on deliveries and therefore it can be "closed" you should travel only during daylight hours!
Q.	Can I take a gun into Mexico?
A.	A permit to take a gun into Mexico is issued only in conjunction with a Hunting permit which is issued only for the period of the hunting season. This season depends on the area in which you would intend to hunt, and can be expensive if you intend to travel through several states. The same applies if you wish to have a gun onboard a vessel while cruising Mexican waters. Many yachts have a shotgun onboard for protection and run the risk of loosing the gun. to Mexican officials if boarded. A hand gun is absolutely not permitted and will definitely be taken if found. Depending on the official, you may or may not loose the shotgun.-Once the gun permit is issued with the hunting permit it must be renewed 60 days after the issue date, which in turn is then good for another 60 days when it then expires. If hunting in Mexico, you must have the hunting and gun permit as well as a guide or if checked by officials there could be a heavy fine and the loss of your shotguns (you are allowed 2).
Q.	May I take a VHF or Ham radio into Mexico?
A.	A. A permit for a VHF radio can be gotten from the Mexican consulate for $2.60. A ham radio permit is more involved, but can be obtained from Mexicali.