joseph@hp-pcd.UUCP (joseph) (09/19/84)
The water from any tap in the Acapulco city limits comes from the city water system, which will have a modern treatment facility just like in US cities. All of the standard chemicals are provided at no extra charge. Problems from drinking such water are no different than going to a strange city in the US, where the flora of the water is different from your home. As far as food, just use your head. I wouldn't eat any meat products from street vendors. The standard rumor is that the taco "meat" is what is swept from the floor of the meat-packing facility, though I'm not sure I believe this. You don't have to restrict your eating to American hotels either. In fact, you will greatly detract from your eating experience with this attitude. Mexican restaurants are EXCELLENT! The fancy restaurants require no concern over edibility. A full course dinner at a full-blown French restuarant (wine included) will cost very little. As to less expensive restuarants, eat at ones where the other customers aren't real sleezy, and you'll have no problems. I know people who were recently in Acapulco, who said that there is a new park, with a restaurant called El Papagayo (means The Parrot). Perhaps that is the name of the park, I can't remember, but they would say it is a must. Taxi service is available. If you are still paranoid of the food and water, you can drink bottled mineral water, that is quite good. Either Topo Chico or Tehuatican (sp.?) are widely available at restaurants-- better than Perrier. Mexican beer is excellent. If unsure of the food, you can pamper yourself by avoiding produce that is not peeled before eating. e.g. bananas are ok, but not tomatoes. Also, you can if desired, avoid meats that are not well cooked. I never worry about these things and have never gotten sick in Mexico. I delighted at some fine meals at various bus stations on route to Mexico City-- excellent food, and no problems. Most of the people who get sick are those who go to Mexico with the idea they will take ill. Eating something that you think is going to make you sick, will do it. Because of the psychological effect, you should only eat what you are comfortable with. You should definitely go to a Mexican bakery if possible, and try some Cabrito (goat meat) if you eat meat. Have fun!