Anytime a person mentions visiting Mexico in conversation, the usual response is “Don’t drink the water!” Now it's not like the advice giver actually has drunk the water, it’s just that this particular piece of travel advice was probably passed on to him, like a virus, and he in turn is now passing it on to you. As it turns out, this is good general advice. In fact it’s good advice any time you travel to a lesser developed country, or any part of the States not graced with a clean mountain fed water system.

The water in Mexico can have amoebas in it, small single cell organisms that can wreak havoc with your digestive system. This doesn’t mean you will always get sick if you drink a glass of water from the tap, but the chance is always there. However, at least in Manzanillo there is no need to be overly frightened because of this. Most major resorts offer filtered water to drink right from the tap, and the ice in these places is safe. Mexicans can get sick from the amoebas as well, so in general all restaurants have filtered water and ice for their customers. It’s just good business, if a local gets sick they won’t eat there anymore, and neither will their friends, so there really is no need to worry overly much. You do not need to take a shower or wash your dishes in filtered water either, the amoebas can only make you sick if you eat them. Amoebas cannot survive outside of water, so if your dishes are dry after washing, all the amoebas are dead. Also if you boil your water the amoebas die, so you can cook with it as well.

That being said, it is wise not to be overly careless. Many locals will offer juices or beverages on the side of the road to passersby. It’s probably a good idea if you are visiting to skip these, since sometimes they can be made using the local water.

If you are staying for a length of time, you will probably be looking into getting some 19 liter jugs of water for your home or condo. These can be picked and refilled up at any Kiosko or Oxxo for around 16 pesos. Our favorite place to get water is Purasanta, it is just to the right of Juanito’s. They will clean and refill your jugs for you for 9 pesos a jug and a smile.

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