The farther you venture from these popular areas, however, the less English will be spoken. Make sure you have a good English-Spanish dictionary and a basic Spanish phrase book. You might want to check your health insurance policy, as some plans do not extend coverage outside the country of residence. If this is the case, you can obtain traveler's health insurance. Make sure your vehicle is in top mechanical condition.
Shock absorbers are very important.
It's a good idea to carry extra belts and hoses, as well as the tools needed to install them. We have heard that while skilled mechanics can be found in larger towns, parts may be another story. There are many road tolls and while tourists are supposed to get a discount, they often do not. Ask with a smile, for permission to photograph and you'll usually get a positive answer, however remember that no flashes are allowed. Finding a place to do laundry can sometimes be a problem.