Mexico
Among Ancient Temples and Centuries-Old Forests
From the scorched deserts of the north to the humidity of the south, Mexico is a cocktail of influences, its landscape ever-changing and vibrant.
From the arid desert of Baja California, with its unique atmosphere, to the crowded beaches of the Yucatán, and the magnificent temples of the ancient Maya with their imposing history, Mexico is a blend of colors, music, and smiling people. The beaches of the Caribbean Sea are enchanting, white, endless and the spectacular sea fascinates visitors from all over the world.
A thousand flavors, a thousand places, one trip will never be enough. It is a country rich in natural habitats and fascinating places waiting to be discovered.
Mexico is a nation steeped in magic and folklore, in ancestral traditions, forever a meeting point, and sometimes a battleground, between heritage and progress. Mysterious, striking, full of contradictions and sharp contrasts, Mexico is a kaleidoscope of cultures clashing with American liberalism. Mexico is a world of its own: with its palaces, archaeological sites, and its long, rich historical and anthropological tradition. Its great cathedrals vibrate under the sun; its cities are dotted with Aztec temples, ruins, and dazzling white beaches. Mexico is more than just a destination, it’s a way of life.
Language: The language of Mexico is Spanish; English is also widely spoken in tourist areas. In reality, Mexico has no official language, and there is a fascinating blend between Spanish and the many indigenous languages spoken throughout the country.
Religion: The dominant religion in Mexico is Catholicism, practiced by about 83.9% of the population. There are also numerous Protestant communities and religious practices that combine Catholic beliefs with Aztec elements, folk traditions, and exotic customs.
Time zone: GMT -6
Documents: To enter Mexico, travelers must have a valid passport with at least six months remaining from the date of entry. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days, which can be extended to a maximum of 180 days through the National Institute of Immigration. Upon arrival, tourists must fill out a form and pay an airport tax (check with your airline to see whether this is included in the ticket price).
Currency: The Mexican currency is the peso, represented by the dollar sign ($).
Curiosity
Mexico is a nation full of fascinating facts:
The name Mexico comes from the indigenous Nahuatl language and means “In the Navel of the Moon.”
The Mexican flag, like the Italian one, has symbolic meaning: green stands for hope, white for unity, and red for the blood of the nation’s martyrs.
Mexico City ranks as the eighth richest city in the world by GDP.
Mexico is the world’s largest producer of silver.
The meteorite that is believed to have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs struck in the Yucatán Peninsula.
Mexico City has the highest number of taxis in the world, at least 60,000.
Our advices
WHAT TO READ: Under the Clouds of Mexico by Francisco Solano — a book offering a fresh perspective on Mexico’s beauty, revealing the hidden wonders behind its tourist spots. It tells the stories of the people, the culture, and the chronicles of an intense journey through this warm and vibrant country.
WHAT TO LISTEN TO: Mexican musical culture is rich and ancient, still marked by the distinctive traits of pre-Columbian civilizations. After the Spanish colonization, European instruments and musical forms such as the melodrama and the sarabande were introduced. Today, among the most popular genres are the melancholic Mexican country (ranchera music) and traditional dances inspired by indigenous heritage, such as the jarana.
WHAT TO WATCH: Viva Zapata! (1952) — a film exploring the relationship between power and corruption (still a relevant theme today), portraying the incorruptible revolutionary Emiliano Zapata, a friend of the poor who fought against the dictator Díaz for peasants’ rights.
WHAT TO EAT: For Mexicans, food is an essential part of national identity. There is a strong cultural tradition of offering visitors an abundance of dishes and specialties. Mexican cuisine blends indigenous and Spanish influences, later enriched by European (especially French in the 19th century) and Oriental flavors. The main seasoning is chili pepper, used extensively, making the cuisine spicy and aromatic. Another staple since ancient times is corn, often served as antojitos (appetizers). The most popular beverage is beer — often dark, sometimes mixed with chili or served with lime.
