Driving to Zih

If you were entering in Arizona, we'd have you covered. We are currently in Tepic, Nayarit, and hope to be in Patzcuaro tomorrow.

It depends on how hard you want to drive. Some of the chain hotels in Saltillo are surprisingly nice if that's as far as you're going. I would highly recommend Las Palmas in Matehuala for the first night if you're driving from Laredo.

I have enjoyed the Gran Hotel in the center of Queretaro. It can be a little noisy, but you're right on the town square and it's a lot of fun.

Either Morelia or Patzcuaro is a good stop. I've enjoyed several hotels in the center of Morelia. I'm sure you can find lots of good recommendations on this board.

We stay in Laredo on way from Tennessee and cross border at the Columbia Bridge that morning. It's 20 miles west of the city. We like it because it's less hassle to register our car there. You know there is a 5,300+ peso temporary registration deposit. All but small part refunded when you cross back. Also required is the original car title or original registration or notarized copy. Have several copies of passports and drivers licenses, required too. We carry MexiPass auto insurance, required also. First night we stay at Hotel Las Palmas in Matehuala. Love this place and the staff. Amazing restaurant. We save ourselves for months for that first margarita there. Really large clean rooms and secure parking. Easy on and off Cuota 57. Second night we like Hotel de la Soledad in the Historic district in Morelia. We cut out the bypass by driving straight through the center of the historic district. Mercedes restaurant is spectacular and just 4 blocks walking. Both hotel and Mercedes $$$$. Lots of good dining in walking distance and plenty of hotels in that area. Then on to Zihua the next day. We always stay on the toll roads and do not drive at night. We use 500 peso bills at booths and collect lots of cambio for use in Zihua. Have stayed in Querataro and Patzquaro. Both beautiful. It's cold in Patzquaro and our rooms did not have heat. There is a silver mine outside Matehuala and would make it a two night stay and Pernal outside Querataro has the third largest monolith in the world. I look forward to driving each year. Lots to see. Have a great trip.

CathyMarie brought up an excellent point. Get your TIP, temporary importation permit for your vehicle on line!!!! Same price, delivered in 3-5 days to your home, and saves you the 30 minutes to 1.5 hours waiting.

We'll be off line for a couple of days, finishing up our drive from Tepic to Zihua, but you can easily find the info on this site: http://forums.woodalls.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/listings/forum/66.cfm

Insurance isn't required, but don't leave home without it!

Smiles will get you through everything, along with several copies of your passports!