20 replies to this topic

[mexicobride]

Hi, everyone!

This might be a stupid question, but I have never been to Mexico before and I'm confused about this...

I have heard two differing opinions: some say it is safe to use ice cubes and eat fresh produce washed in local water at the AI resort, and others say it is not. I don't want my guests to get sick, and I want to be able to advise them well on this issue. But I also don't want to go overboard with avoiding these things if it's not necessary.

What are your experiences/opinions?

[KayKay]

Good question. I've been to Mexico 6 times and became ill when I returned home only once (the one time I was sick I was in Mazatlan for spring break and God only knows what I did to induce that).

I typically drink tea and have sodas with ice cubes when I am at the AI resorts and I have not had any problems. The AI's should have their own water filtration system. Most websites will tell you if they do or not. The fruit is usually really good and a treat to have while sunbathing or lounging at the pool. My advice would be to be cautious...have a good time...try the fruit....bring Pepto, Immodium, etc...just in case. I think many people get sick more often from over indulging in the unlimited alcoholic beverages, but that is just my opinion. Best of luck!

-K

[MERRYME]

One great trick I always use to prevent getting sick: get plain yogurt sold in most stores everywhere in Mexico. The good bacteria in the yogurt will help keep your good intestinal bacteria going. Eat at least a large spoonfull every morning.

if you can't find the yogurt look for Chamoyito or Yakul - They also have the good bacteria - This porduct is marketed for kids so you will probably find it just as easy.

[Lian Marie]

Hi there. I worked as a concierge for a while in one of the hotels here and I faced this questions MANNNNY times....you shouldn't drink the water from the faucets - noone does - not even locals. But it is okay for bathing, brushing your teeth, etc... everywhere you go bottled or filtered water is used. A trick to be 100% sure your ice was made from filtered water is there will be a whole or indention in the ice!

But, it is more or less inevitable that someone will get sick - be it from the food, water, or ALCOHOL. You can visit your doctor and tell them you are going to Mexico. Usually, they will prescribe you an antibiotic, usually Cipro, which is a miracle drug down here. The second you feel sick you can take one and within the day you should feel better. (You can also find it here at the pharmacies without a prescription.)

Hope this helps!
L

[TammyWright]

i always take cipro and drink bottled water but if the hotel is on a filter water system like dreams cabo it is safe to eat lettuce and drink with ice....but not all resorts have their entire system on a filtered water system...some will have stickers on the mirror warning not to drink water out of the sink.

[JaimeLynne]

I've been 4 times so far and have never gotten sick *knocks on wood*. I just drink bottled water, even in the hotels. I have always brushed my teeth with the sink water and been fine. But I do stay away from produce washed in it. I've never really thought about the ice cubes... I stick with the rule, if you can't peel it or cook it don't eat it. My Dad and his gf got really sick last time we all went down and the only difference seemed to be that they ate a lot of salads and my friend and I did not. Hope that helps!

[Matt Adcock]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mexicobride Hi, everyone! This might be a stupid question, but I have never been to Mexico before and I'm confused about this... I have heard two differing opinions: some say it is safe to use ice cubes and eat fresh produce washed in local water at the AI resort, and others say it is not. I don't want my guests to get sick, and I want to be able to advise them well on this issue. But I also don't want to go overboard with avoiding these things if it's not necessary. What are your experiences/opinions?

This comes from a guero who has been to the Riviera Maya on probably 30 or 40 times in the last 12 months (i really dont count anymore)... I spend lots of time here, 2 -5 weeks at a time. My first trip, i got sick because i ate the wrong food... Staying at a resort, you should be fine. I recommend bottled water and not worrying about the ice. These hotels do have filtered water and have your health in their best interest!

Also, I am a firm believer of mind over matter. Think positive about your health during your stay in Mexico and you will be in TIP TOP shape the entire time! Plus, your body will have lots of adrenaline and endorphins running through your body due to the excitement and RUSH of your wedding experience!

much love,

mateo

[Chicago80]

In addition to what Merryme said... IF you are like I am and hate yogurt... I found a supplement at Sams Club last week called AccuFlora that is supposed to have the same good bacteria in it and it was only about $13.00 for a huge bottle of 240 caplets.

[mexicobride]

Thanks for all the great tips and advice! It's nice to know there are steps that can be taken to help prevent it. I'm still a little worried about my little nephews, since they still swallow ocean water sometimes, not on purpose. But there's only so much you can do!

[JaimeLynne]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt Adcock Also, I am a firm believer of mind over matter. Think positive about your health during your stay in Mexico and you will be in TIP TOP shape the entire time!

I love this! Create your own reality.