This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Veracruz.
Veracruz, Mexico, is a city on the Gulf of Mexico, east of Mexico City. It is a large, spacious city in the state of the same name. When Mexicans refer to the city, they call it Puerto Veracruz to differentiate it from the state. Veracruz has a great nightlife scene that mostly concentrates near the harbour.
Veracruz may be the oldest Colonial city in Mexico, but you won’t see much remaining from Colonial times in Veracruz as is elsewhere in Mexico. However, there are still two fortresses to see in the city, some buildings with architecture that dates back to Colonial times, and of course some museums that are reminiscent of that time. There is also a small part of the former city wall left.
Veracruz is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, so it will not come as a surprise that you can spend some time at the beach when you visit Veracruz. The best beaches are not in Veracruz, but just south of the city. The beach at Boca del Rio is one of the easiest beaches to reach from Veracruz. You might as well look at Boca del Rio for a hostel if you intend to spend most of your time at the beach.
The nightlife in Veracruz, Mexico, is one of the best in the country. There are plenty good clubs and cafes and you can experience Cuban influences in its nightlife. The highlight is annual Carnival, around February, when the parties are at its most exuberant level. If you want to visit during the Carnival season, it is wise to book your Veracruz, Mexico hostel far in advance. Veracruz, Mexico hostels and hotels sell out far in advance, so if you want to book a Veracruz, Mexico hostel of a decent quality, a fair rate, and still have a choice, it is recommended to book at least a few months before Carnival. At other times of the year, the demand is not as high and you will probably be fine if you book your hostel in Veracruz, Mexico, a few days or weeks in advance.
Written by local enthusiast for Veracruz hostels
Martin Straatman