The bus to Puebla is called the "Estrella Roja". It is in front of the airport, but to get there you need to use
an overpass. When exiting from customs turn right. This may also be a good moment to get cash, e.g., from the
Scotia-Inverlat Bank ATM, or at any of the dozens of exchange places. (Exchange rates are good.) Near the
Scotia-Inverlat Bank you need to take the escalator. Once upstairs, immediately make a 180 degree turn, walk about
20 meters until you can't go further, then turn left, and walk about 50 meters, then turn right to cross the street
through the overpass, and then turn right again. At this point there will be a bus ticket office. Buy tickets from
the "Estrella Roja" line to Puebla, at MN130 (about US$12) each. Buses leave every 30 mins. to one hour. There are
two possible Estrella Roja buses, which go to different destinations in Puebla. I always take the one to "4 poniente"
("4 west") in Puebla, which I believe to be the most convenient destination. The other Puebla station is called
"CAPU". Ask for a window seat ("ventana") on the right ("a la derecha") so you can enjoy the view. You will get
peanuts and a drink, just like on a plane. The trip to Puebla will take about 2 hours. Upon arrival, there will be
many taxis waiting. Take one to the Hotel Santiago (which is where Carlos Pando has reserved rooms), but first ask
for the price ("quanto cuesta al Zocalo"). Hotel Santiago is on "3 poniente #106", immediately off the Zocalo (main
square). The taxi ride should be about 40 pesos (US$3.60). Make sure you have enough in change, or a 50 pesos bill.
As a foreigner, I give an extra 5 pesos, which is always much appreciated.
If you need to spend a night in Mexico City, then there are two hotels close to the airport that I have found to be
comfortable and convenient, the "JR Plaza Hotel on Boul. Puerto Aereo, which has a shuttle bus to and from the
airport, and the Hotel Aeropuerto Plaza. You may be able to make an internet reservation. The shuttle to the JR Plaza
Hotel leaves from airport exit 4: to get there turn left after exiting customs. There may be a lady there from the
hotel to take your name. Verify the room rate with her, which should be around US$60-70. |