Quote:
Originally Posted by Katyanna
It is also very unfortunate that our public transportation system in the US is absolute crap, putting far too many cars on the roadway when there could be better options. Almost every family here needs two cars to get around.
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It's the exact opposite here in Mexico. You can get anywhere here by bus. Even the smallest village has routine bus service.
Between major cities the bus service is often offered in several classes- first, second, third. First class is about what you'd get on an airline in first class minus the alcohol. There's movies, the seats lay near flat and there's a service attendant for drinks and snacks. First Class for the 3 1/2 hour trip between Cancun and Merida is about $30. The second class bus is nearly the same, but smaller seats and no snacks or drinks are supplied, I think it's about $22. For around $10 you can take 3rd class which is basically and old school bus without A/C.
There's a second class type bus that runs every half hour from Merida to Progeso, it's about $1.20 ea. way, or $2 R/T.
Service to outer villages is often via what's known as a "cambi." Which is usually a VW or Toyota van. Often completely packed full, but does have A/C. The 20 min. ride from Progeso to Chelem, which is a very small fishing village west of here, is .50 on the "cambi."
I obviously haven't been everywhere in Mexico but this is the way it works everywhere I've been, the whole country is set up to transport the masses who have historically not owned personal cars. In the past 20 years or so personal vehicle owner ship has become common, but most people still take public transit. My friend who owns a hotel and several nice cars takes the bus when going into Merida. Simply easier and less of a hassle.