Mexico — planning trip, need advice

Planning my first trip to Mexico and could use some advice from those who have been recently.

I have been reading the older threads and the country guide but wanted to check if info is still current.

Specifically interested in:
1. Best area to stay for easy access to the scene
2. Realistic daily budget (looking for mid-range quality)
3. Safety concerns and areas to avoid
4. Best approach — online platforms or in person?
5. How long to stay — thinking 7 days

Any recent trip reports or tips appreciated. Thanks.

Thanks for the write-up. Very helpful for my upcoming trip.

Adding my experience from last month.

The scene has changed a bit since pre-COVID. Biggest change: more competition.

Just booked my flights! Thanks for the motivation.

Great report, thanks for sharing. I had a similar experience there last month.

100% agree. The atmosphere is hard to beat.

How does it compare to Thailand?

Agreed on all points. Make sure to use a VPN.

Any restaurant recs for the daytime?

This matches my experience. Mexico is one of my favorites.

Not sure I agree about that area. I found the outskirts to be better value.

Thanks for the write-up. Very helpful for my upcoming trip.

Did you feel safe walking around at night?

Thanks for the write-up. Very helpful for my upcoming trip.

Agreed on all points. Make sure to book hotels in advance.

I'd also recommend downloading Google Translate before you go. Essential.

Hmm, I had a different experience. Prices were lower when I went. Maybe timing matters.

Interesting take but I think you overpaid. Try using a different site next time.

Adding my experience from 3 weeks ago.

The scene has stayed the same since pre-COVID. Biggest change: better quality overall.

How long did it take to feel comfortable and find the good spots?