Mexico is a vibrant Hispanic culture and cuisine that is not closely resembled in the United States. American cities with a significant Mexican-American population include Antonio, Texas, and Santa Fe, New Mexico. Both countries have diverse geography, with landscapes ranging from mountains and deserts to forests and coastlines.
When considering visiting or moving to Mexico from the United States, it is important to understand the cultural differences between the two countries. Spanish is the official language in Cancún and the Mayan Riviera, while Mexico City is the best place for art and vibrant culture. Over 10.5 million U.S. tourists visited Mexico in 2019, and this number is expected to continue.
Mexico’s allure to tourists is largely due to its temperate climate and distinctive cultural amalgamation, blending European and Mesoamerican influences. Most Mexicans welcome tourists as they want to be able to work and support a family, and tourists help achieve this goal. In 2020, Mexico welcomed 24 million international tourists, and in 2022, visitor numbers surpassed pre-pandemic levels.
The US border regime has caused a large reduction of day trips and border tourism, negatively impacting Mexico. Ancient civilization ruins, tropical weather, stunning nature, and authentic food are just a few of the many attractions that attract travelers. Americans are less likely to face violence in Mexico than at home, particularly when focusing on Mexico’s most popular travel destinations. In January-November 2022, it was reported that 34 million 700 thousand international tourists arrived, compared to 5 million 8888 thousand more visitors compared to the previous year.
📹 Visit Mexico – The DON’Ts of Visiting Mexico
Mexico is AMAZING, but even with all the great things you should DO when you visit Mexico on vacation or spring break, there are …
What does the US and Mexico share?
The Mexico-U. S. trade relationship is crucial, impacting millions of Americans and Mexicans’ lives and livelihoods. With a 2, 000-mile border and 55 active land ports of entry, the two countries have a busiest trade border in the world. In 2022, trade between Mexico and the U. S. totaled $779. 3 billion, making Mexico the U. S.’s second-largest trade partner. Mexico was the U. S.’s largest provider of goods and second-largest export market. More than five million jobs in the U. S. depend on trade with Mexico. For more information, check out factsheets and presentations.
What similarities do Mexico and the US have?
The U. S. and Mexico share vast areas, long coastlines, and diverse populations, with climates ranging from scorching desert heat to snow-covered mountain peaks. Both countries have presidents as chiefs of state and federal systems of government, with each state having its own governor and legislature. Both have constitutions as their supreme legal documents.
Both countries share a rich indigenous culture and a history of European conquest, with Mexico’s Independence Day commemorating the fight for independence. Both nations have a love of plenty, with Mexico being maximalist and the U. S. being more conservative.
Three aspects of Mexican culture that are similar to the U. S. are the cowboy, the romanticized image of a hard-working farmer, the love of sports, and the love of food and drink. The U. S. is known for its football, while Mexico is known for its delicious Mexican cuisine, with the majority of Americans enjoying tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. Both nations also love good beer, which is the most popular alcoholic beverage in both countries.
In summary, the U. S. and Mexico share many similarities in their geography, government systems, indigenous culture, and love of abundance.
What are three aspects of Mexican culture that are similar to culture in the United States?
Both the US and Mexico share values in hospitality, religion, food, individualism vs. collectivism, directness in communication, and views on work. The US prioritizes individual success, while Mexico emphasizes group welfare. Both cultures enjoy diverse cuisine and share meals together. However, the US has a strong work-is-life mentality, while Mexico balances work with enjoying the moment.
What is it really like in Mexico?
Mexico is a unique country with a vibrant local culture, rich history, friendly people, sunny climate, delicious food and drink, and nearly 6, 000 miles of coastline. The relaxed pace of life is enjoyed by children playing in the streets and neighbors knowing each other. Mexico’s large size and varied geography offer many choices for those moving to the country, including silver-mining towns, fishing villages, beach towns, and cosmopolitan cities. With its diverse lifestyles, Mexico is home to more U. S. expats than any other country in the world.
What do Mexico and Central America have in common?
Mexico’s cultural heritage, including Spanish and Catholicism, and its corn-based gastronomy, contribute to its closeness to Central America. These cultural elements are more than enough to make Mexico consider itself part of Central America. However, other factors also play a role. Mexico’s large land border with the United States and strong economic relationship with Canada through the USMCA, or North American Free Trade Agreement, further place it in the heart of North America. As the largest economy in the world and Mexico’s largest trade partner, Mexico looks to the North more than the South.
What is tourism like in Mexico?
Mexico, known for its pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture, ranks among the top ten most popular tourist destinations globally. In 2019, it was ranked as the seventh most popular tourist destination, generating $25 billion in income from 45 million international visitors. The tourism industry provides over 4. 5 million jobs and accounts for over 8 of the country’s GDP. Coastal tourism is the main contributor, with many visitors flocking to world-renowned beach destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, and Cabo San Lucas. The development of Los Cabos from the 1960s to 2012 is also noteworthy.
Why is Mexico famous for tourism?
Mexico is renowned for its rich culture, ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore Mayan temple ruins, enjoy live music, and relax on tropical beaches. The underwater world offers vibrant corals and marine life. Mexico offers a variety of thrilling experiences, including culinary experiences and outdoor activities. With its diverse beaches and coastline, there’s something for everyone.
What is between the US and Mexico?
The Mexico-United States border is an international border that connects Mexico and the United States, spanning from the Pacific Ocean west to the Gulf of Mexico east. It is the most frequently crossed border in the world, with around 350 million documented crossings annually. The border crisis has been caused by illegal crossings to enter the United States. It is one of two international borders between the United States and Mexico, with Mexico having two other borders with Belize and Guatemala.
The border is tenth-longest in the world, extending 3, 145 kilometers (1, 954 miles) and follows the course of the Rio Grande from the Gulf of Mexico to the border crossing at Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, and El Paso, Texas. It also crosses vast tracts of the Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts to the Colorado River Delta and San Diego-Tijuana before reaching the Pacific Ocean. The border also has maritime boundaries of 29 km into the Pacific Ocean and 19 km into the Gulf of Mexico.
What is a cultural difference between the US and Mexico?
Mexicans are known for their sociability, directness, and comfort in public, often greeting people with hugs and kisses. They are more direct and comfortable showing emotions in public than most Americans. Mexico is a conservative nation with traditional values, such as strict gender roles and a collectivist society. The majority of Mexicans are Catholic, which influences many aspects of life, such as business closures and Sunday mass attendance.
This religious diversity is reflected in the fact that most Mexicans attend mass and adhere to Catholic morality, religious rituals, and traditional customs. Overall, Mexicans prioritize their community over individual needs.
What are some similarities between the US and Latin America?
The United States and Latin American (LATAM) countries share cultural similarities despite significant differences in language, geography, and history. The main cultural similarities are the use of Spanish and English languages, with Spanish being the official language in most LATAM countries and English being the primary language in the USA. The growing Hispanic population in the USA has led to Spanish becoming an essential second language, and both regions have religious diversity, with Christianity being the predominant religion.
Family values are significant in both countries, with extended families comprising grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins. The family structure in both regions is hierarchical, with the father as the head of the household. Family gatherings, such as weddings and baptisms, are significant events celebrated with great enthusiasm.
What are the similarities between Mexico and the United States Independence Day?
Both days are nationally recognized holidays in their respective countries, commemorated through festivities such as fireworks displays, parades, and cultural festivals. These celebrations often coincide with the struggle for independence from colonial powers.
📹 10 Best Places to Visit in Mexico – Travel Video
Gorgeous beaches, a delicious culinary scene, festive culture and ancient pyramids all make Mexico a popular tourist destination.
Coming back to this article after a few trips to MX. Some tips: Mexican vanilla is the BOMB, get some to bring back. Don’t say no to any kind offer (except drugs) Tequila at noon is ok once in a while. They are hardworking people – appreciate how much they have worked to get what You and I would call basics.
Sooo, I’m Mexican, and tbh, before the article started, I was like “please be accurate, please be accurate”, and it is!! These are true pieces of advice for visiting México 😉 Insecurity and unfriendly/dirty cops might be an issue in Mexico City and the many places you can visit, but as long as you’re safe and DON’T hang out in the wrong places/at the wrong times, you’ll have an amazing time and should totally come and see what the whole country has to offer..! Fantastic article!!
Great advise, however I would add on a couple of things. I have been to mexico many times and have visted several states, big cities (mexico city, guadalajara) and small off the beatten path towns, Here is what I would add: 1) when eating salsa be aware of “salsa cruda”. This is raw salsa that is made with water. In non touristy areas this water may not be good for you. Ask if the salsa is salsa cruda. 2) If you are buying grocerys at the store dont forget to tip the baggers. They usually are children or retired people who are not paid and do the job for the tip money. you also tip the person that fills up your gas 3) The freeways are not free. When driving on the autopistas make sure you have the cash you need to cover your distance. 4) When you are pulled over by a cop and they want you to “pay the fine on the spot” that is not a fine. That is a “mordida” or a bribe lol. I have only had this problem in Baja, however it does exist. Try to negotiate this “fine” down. I.e I only have $20.00 on me and show wallet etc. 5)DO visit other places other than Cabo or Cancun. For first time visitors I would suggest Mexico City. if you can squeeze in a day for Taxco guerrero. Another great option is Guadalajara. Both options will have limitless possibilites for a few weeks of travel. 6) Its not as dangerious as you have been lead to believe. Use common sense and stay away from the bad areas. Just as a european tourist would not travel to the roughest areas of detroit or chicago, I would suggest staying away from the rougher border areas as well as certain places in michoacan and guerrero.
He is absolutely correct about drinking Tequila, a good Tequila should be savored whether it’s straight,with ice or mixed. It’s so smooth and relaxing it will sneak up on you. One minute your talking about sports, then the next your singing twinkle twinkle little star! Always,always have a designated driver…. be safe out there!
PLEASE DON’T incentive tourists to ALWAYS haggle or negotiate prices, it’s such a bad practice! There are stuff that are completely negotiable like Chinese-manufactured souvenirs such as mugs, shirts, magnets, pens, keychains that you buy in Cabo, Cancun or Tijuana. ===> BUT if you visit Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz, Chiapas or other “poor” State, and want to buy some HANDCRAFTED souvenirs, please DON’T RIP OFF PEOPLE! They spent days, weeks or even moths crafting stuff for you wanting to negotiate 3-4 dollars off –> it might mean one more soda pop for you but to them is food for their entire family!
Here in Mexico its better to use Uber than take a taxi, is cheaper and safer and if you worry about safety, let me say you that most of the tourist parts are safe, the real danger it’s on certain urban zones where poor people live obviously it depends of which city or state you are been but in general during the day it’s safer than at night :3
This is a great article but the one thing I disagree with is “haggling”. Sure, feel free to haggle a bit soyou’re buying cheap, massively manufactured souvenirs from China and Taiwan but PLEASE DONT HAGGLE if you’re buying handcrafted local “artesanías”. The $2-3 dollars you’re trying to save may feed an entire family for a week or two. Please value the skill and details of the local artisans and pay what they’re asking. Most of the time they’re already undervaluing themselves.
Haggling?! BE CAREFUL. In our area at least, haggling is considered disrespectful, and one would only engage in it if the vendor (or taxi driver) initiates it. You just ask how much the service or good costs, and if it’s too high you can decline. The vendor MIGHT then offer a better deal (but, in our area, usually not), and only then is it acceptable to haggle. If they don’t offer to deal, then say “No, gracias,” and walk away politely.
The correct name is Moctezuma and yes Moctezuma’s revenge is damn real. Also, please never bargain with indigenous and their handcraft items, its their only income and in almost every case they are they are very poor, yes you can bargain in stores because their prices are high most of the times. Great cotent, i really liked it even though i am a mexican. Lol, abuelitas rule 😂😂
Tap water in Mexico varies, Monterrey is fine but go to Mexico city and you should stick to bottled water. If you are staying at a hotel you can usually ask if tap water is fit for drinking in the area. Do be aware that you can also get travelers diarrea from changes or increased spices (both aromatic and peppers) or fat. Yes, you can haggle quite often, but please don’t if you are getting a craft from a craftsman. They are generally unappreciated for their art and hard work it will mean a lot to them that you pay them the full price or if you see fit give them a little extra.
I first went to Mexico in High School for 2 weeks for 279.00 on a Spanish Class trip. It opened up my eyes to the world for sure. Going to the Pyramids of Sun and Moon just one of those places you’ll never forget as well as the major museum in Mexico City. I had taken Spanish in 8th through 12th grade and was able to take language test at college that allowed me “free” college credit given my proficiency. I’ll never forget Mrs Huff or Streator (later remarried). Later in life I ended up being a chaperone to Mexico for a local rural high school. One caution the guides said was never take a VW Taxi in Mexico City.
TRUE, Mexico knows how to apretiate and welcome those who apretiate and respect it. And in spite of politics and the great rejection shown by the orange faced billionaire,that woman called Ann Coulter and others, we know that in general, people in the USA also know how to respect our culture, and be amigos, so…iiiBienvenidos!!!!
As a family we went to Guanajuato and it was amazing! Both my parents are from Mexico and wanted us to get familiar with the beauty of the nation. We stayed at a hotel during the Thanksgiving holiday that was right in front of a plaza so there was always live music and the energy was so nice! The hotel had a very historical feel to it and since it got nice and cool at night we slept with the window open and it was the best sleep ever. We felt extremely safe to the point that my parents let my siblings and I walk around by ourselves to get food or take pictures. We are definitely planning another family trip maybe to Oaxaca or Aguascalientes (trying to avoid the tourist attractions).
Hi. I really enjoyed your article, it makes me see that most US-born people appreciate my country, and gives me hope there is such nice persons as yourself. I’ve lived in the US and visit it very often and unfortunately I have found racism and unfriendly people, but to be in my country and see that in tourists is the worst, I have to suck it up because the people that live off it need to put up with those jerks. However you give me hope that most people are as appreciative as yourself. Enjoy my country and see everything we have to offer, specially our hospitality.
There are a few points i can clear, like Moctezuma’s curse is about spicy food that causes you diarrhea water is ok to drink but is better to have it in a bottle, driving in Mexico is safe is just matter of trusting on your skills and learning how to move on trafic, i had a blast in Cancun people are amazing that place is a paradise
We have a saying here in México that goes “te vieron la cara de turista” which roughly translate to “they saw you were a tourist” this we use when the vendors overcharge you, so do follow that tip, hassle, specialy in the markets but, if you see the work is intricate, please note that this is made by hand and the price will include that
Tip: from experience If you wish to fly to another Mexican city from one Use INTERJET to they have amazing service If you are looking for cheap flights from Mexico City to Cancun you can get a ticket for $500 pesos with VIVA AEROBÚS For eating I would recommend going to local markets and enjoying the food it’s amazing and you can get a really great deal Also instead of a taxi you can use Uber’s they are extremely easy and we’re kind to use ( i am an American born but my mom is a native from Guadalajara and I go twice a year and have wonderful experiences there it’s what you make the most of)
Rule #11: If you are in a taxi and the driver gets into an accident – get out and run away! If you don’t, and are Canadian or American, the cops will blame the accident on you and you will end up paying graft to get out of trouble! If you have a bag, do not put it into the trunk. Keep it next to you so if you have to bolt, you can grab your bag and run!!!
I too had an awesome time in Mexico- visited a friend’s house in Puebla. People there were so nice (I speak Spanish, which helped). Went to Popocatepetl and got our pictures taken with the Mexican Army, who were doing an exercise there. Also the best tacos al pastor I’ve ever had! Gracias México por la gran experiencia!
Drove for a week last month in the quintana roo/yucatan area. Was such a pleasurable experience. The roads were well taken care of, never had any issues with police despite their presence everywhere (made it feel very safe actually). The roads going inland into the peninsula were empty for the most part. Was so great and would recommend it over getting excursions.
You can negotiate prices as long as they are not written down on signs or tags. Those prices are fixed and you are more likely to annoy the seller and get a rude response if you try to be smart. Places like Detroit or Queens are more dangerous than most parts of Mexico. Keep to the tourist areas, same as if you were in NYC. Always, always tip, be generous if the rate exchange favors you.
I was sailing with friends in the Sea of Cortez. We landed on this island. My friends elected me to find the best homemade tortillas in the village because I was the only one who knew some Spanish. We met a local, and in Spanish he proclaimed that his sister made the best tortillas. He brought us over. They served us beer while we waited. We chatted with the family and just enjoyed the moment. We had the tortillas with dinner…they were fabulous! Such a fond memory.
Hi all. Look, if you go to Mexico and are worried about the water or ice or whatever (or even if you aren’t), go down to the local “Farmacia” and just say to the person attending: “Lomotil” (Loh-moh-teel). That’s what the LOCALS take all through Latin America when Montezuma comes after THEM! They’re little white pills (or a liquid, but the pills are easier to use) that come in a plasticized foil strip. At the first moment you feel a bit odd, take one, cut the “revenge” off at the pass. You should be good to go (even the kids can take them.). Buy a whole strip, they’re cheap, and you might be the savior of other visitors’ trip, that don’t know about the product. They’re made of Atropine and Demerol, so you might even cop a buzz as well, to go with your tequila. I have read that they have side effects but I have taken them all my life and never suffered complications, nor have heard others mention them. But whatever, they’re certainly better than the “side effects” from the ice.
Few things; – Got back from Riviera Maya last week. Between our resort, Play Del Carmen, the cenotes, Tulum, and a day trip to Cozumel there’s a LOT to do in this area and you get away from from more touristy Cancun. – Drove the whole time. It was fun and a pleasure. There was a little vagueness at times where the lanes are, but people drive more logically then in the US (ex: left lane for faster cars and passing). Never felt un-safe, but we didn’t drive at night either.
Monday, Agosto 12, 2019. En Cancun, cuando caminas alrededor del gran lago rodeado por grandes hoteles, hay que tener cuidado con LOS COCODRILOS, LAGARTOS, O CAIMANES COMO TU LOS LLAMES PORQUE EN ESE LAGO LOS HAY!!! SI!! YO LOS VI Y CIERTAMENTE HAY AVISOS PREVINIENDO A LOS PASEANTES DEL PELIGRO PERO MUCHA GENTE NO LOS VE.
Also my mom and dad are like huge on manners and so they instructed my sister and me to say “thank you” in Spanish and to try to order things in Spanish so that we wouldn’t seem arrogant. I heard an English (British) girl telling the man working the pool bar (it serves both adults and kids) that she only knew how to say cat in Spanish so she’d try to talk about cats with him to try to utilize her Spanish knowledge and at the end of the week she was saying “¿Tengas los gatos?” And he’d say “Si, mi gato es naranja.” And he would translate for her. It was funny because this 9 year old girl came knowing only one word and left being able to ask people if they have a cat and being able to describe her cat.
I am Mexican and agree south some of the comments about haggling, do so only for stuff that doesn’t look handmade and are in big souvenir shops, if you are buying a handmade souvenir from a local in the streets don’t haggle Also, there are some places where you can haggle taxies, but there are others where you can’t because they have meters
I have family in Guanajuato and haven’t been there since 2008. I would love to go back because it’s beautiful as is all of Mexico (except for the borders), but I am so scared of the violence. My uncle was lucky enough to escape with his life last year when he was held up by young thugs with AKs. He said they seemed inexperienced yet they stole his phone and wallet. He was lucky they didn’t take his car.
The two most important Mexican words…. bano, cervasa. I drink the water in Puerto Vallarta, no problems. I have only been sick once in Mexico and that was from a night I ate raw oysters, i have been at least 20 times, I would not drink the water away from PV or Cancun. Beer is cheap and safe. I eat street tacos el pastor, great experience and I did not get sick but my girlfriend did, some people get sick easier.
Thank you for your praise of the Mexican people, and of your general positive description of Mexico. And yeah, haha, unfortunately, there are some definately DONTS, while in mexico as a visitor. The same is true in just about every place of every country, including my beloved USA. (IE, Las Vegas). Anyhow, thanks buddy!
Great tips. Thank you for all your real experience. Very helpful as a Mexican born American who has not returned since I was 14. I was 3 when I came to the United States and only went back at 14. I’ve been wanting to take my family back but was a little nervous. This makes me feel so much better. Than you!
I used to drink tap water and from the hose in Mexico City! When I go to Cancún I drink tap water cause my resorts says is ok to do so! About washing fruits and veggies I think is not only in México, I think that advice would apply for all the countries. Politeness in México is very important Tip is always welcome specially when you want to recognize great service and friendliness Taxis in touristic places always negotiate rates or get familiar with average prices, but now Uber has presence in many cities in México Public transportation is good, Bus system within cities are great! That Tequila drink is call “Muppet” Thank you for sharing it. To know real Mexico agree, you need to travel to Mexico City, Queretaro, San Miguel, Merida, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, etc
Just a note about the haggling: as a non-native, you WILL pay more. People will charge more even when haggling. If you have a Mexican friend or something let them do the haggling and you will get better prices. Ask locals what the taxi prices are to go from one part of town to another and tell the taxi driver “oh, someone else is charging (price)”, they usually back down. Also, a lot of vendors selling craft stuff are pretty poor and you can sometimes get them to sell you something at a price where they are actually losing money. Please be aware of this, be mindful and a nice person. Also if a cop pulls you over for pretty much any reason 99% of the time they want money, it is way cheaper then actually paying the real ticket and going through the process. They may even pull you over without any reason and will probably tell you the amount of money they want, just go along because things can escalate really easily.
We always give a $1–5$ tip at hotel even though they manager tells you it’s not necessary. Because we have seen how they live day to day and how little they make . Though on last visit I kept track and we gave out like $200 USA dollars! It’s cool though to hear stories from those that have been working at the hotel or with that company and how they enjoy it still after so long. I’ve started learning a little bit of Spanish at my work because we get a lot of farmers and other Mexican people that can’t speak English! And it’s cute to see them get shocked and smile when I tell them where something is or where to go. I fell in love with Mexican seafood fish dishes and soups in Cancun and playa del Carmen! Now when ever I come I have to have some but I also look forward to new food .
People have been saying you get sick from the water since I was a kid. It isn’t the water that makes you sick, it’s poor food handling. No way to put this delicately but workers in the fruit and vegetable fields don’t have access to toilets so they go in the fields. It gets washed by rain or irrigation into the produce. The other problems are meat not being refrigerated properly, cross contamination, etc.
I took Spanish in school and work with many Latinos from multiple different countries and Puerto Rico. The little bit of Spanish I know that’s applicable to basic conversation (Hola, como esta, mas por favor, gracias for example) went a long way when communicating with the locals. I can say this after seeing my parents and everyone else I was with, who speak no Spanish, struggle to communicate with the resort staff. I also had some struggles when I didn’t know the Spanish translation. Side note, there was also one time a hotel staff member asked me how to say tongs in English.
I love Mexico, I’ve been there three times already within 2 years. Love the people, food and places. I went to a All Inclusive Hotel in Riviera Maya and I have to tell you….don’t take the hotels tours…so expensive. I talked to the guy who drove us from the airport to the hotel that I wanted to visit some tourist places, and he offered himself to do it. I tell you, I asked in the hotel how much they will charge me to go to the Tulum Pyramids… US$250.00 one way. Guess how much the taxi driver charged me? US$300, round trip plus he took us to local restaurant, to a local shopping store and he shows us around Isla Mujeres and Playa del Carmen for that price. About the food, you are right, scramble eggs and toast you can get it at home, try local foods, SO FREAKING GOOD. If you think you are eating real tacos, try the tacos in Mexico, completely different. Thank for those tips.
Here are some things I learned travelling throughout Mexico: There is certainly a dress code out in the streets (not just Mexico but the entire Latin America it seems) Guys never ever wear shorts (besides CDMX). Always jeans or long pants and everybody seems to get a haircut at least once every 2 weeks. Women wear the tighest jeans they can find even if they are 2 sizes too small and never go out in pajamas or sweatpants. Women get some serious cat calls. Many guys will blatantly turn around and stare at their body and many times whistle at them (see the reason above) You can rarely pay with the MX$500 bill. This is the only thing the ATMs spit out and yet, the vendors really hate you if you give them MX$500 for anything less than MX$200 and they often do not have enough change More on the ATMs, you don’t go to an ATM on the 1st and the 15th of each month since people withdraw all the money from the ATMs… I mean ALL of it Guys pay for the check at the restaurants… like 99% of the time, there is no going dutch with your date/significant other. Their transportations ‘combis’ or ‘taxis colectivos’ are absolutely puzzling and unorganized to me and you can stand next to a random taxi sign and hope for the best that it will take you to your destination for MX$5 to 8 Stop signs are suggestions to most drivers Cops always have the flashing red/blue lights so need to stop if you are driving, unless their intent is obvious. There is no ‘agua’.. always have to specify if you want regular bottled water (no tap water ever served) or jamaica or something like that Haggling is expected and you should always say that it’s expensive when you get the price quoted.
Good point about the water. I was born in Mexico but my daughter in the US. I have no problem with the water but my daughter she got sick and just because she is not used to the water and doesn’t have the bacteria on her stomach. Now two year later she drinks the water with no problem. One more point … Don’t drive at night and specially if you are alone. Make a local drive for you or pay for a taxy.
Don’t ever pass up an opportunity to hang out with the locals! I want to underscore that knowledge bomb. I mostly travel alone so making friends is much easier…. I swear to you all, this can increase the fun factor of your trip 1000%. Be Humble, be nice, be honest and be cool…show them you are interested in learning about their culture. This wisdom is applicable in most parts of the world. We are all brothers and sisters… and the Mexican people are definitely one of the sweetest.
I like Mexico a lot. I’ve only been there once before and I went to Juarez and anapra. I went there to do some construction for charity in the slums. I have some advice if you are going there for similar reasons: 1) don’t be too afraid if you are in a slum for charity or work. You are going to be with a lot of people, just stick with them, travel in groups, and do not go outside at night time. If you are there for noble reasons the people will usually be appreciative. However this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be on high alert. Despite the fact that there are many pleasant places and people in Mexico it is also a horrible place where people die all the time for horrible reasons. Just be careful. 2) don’t be too worried about the dogs, they are better behaved than most American ones. Just be cautious of ticks and let the dogs come to you first. 3) do not bring a gun or ammo into Mexico. It doesn’t matter if you have a license to carry one in the USA, it’s a felony to have a gun in Mexico. 4) the police can be iffy. I remember once we were traveling to the middle of nowhere off of the Camino real and we got onto the wrong side of the highway (I wasn’t the one driving lol), a serious thing in the USA. Needless to say we eventually came up on some cops… and they just passed right by us, they didn’t even care. So you never really know what to expect with them. Just be careful. 5) if you are having trouble with some of the local kids, like taking supplies or general trouble making, it’s not worth trying to get them to stop.
Anytime you go to a different country or area you can get sick from the local water. It’s not just Mexico. Your stomach is used to your water supply and other areas have different bacteria in their water than your stomach is used to. If you were to travel to the same place in Mexico every year a couple times and drank the tap water you’d probably get sick in one of your first visits but after that you’d probably be just fine. It happens in the Caribbean too. My wife and I both had our “montezuma’s revenge”(she called it volcano ass, lol) in the Caribbean, hers was on St. Thomas and mine was on Eleuthera. We’ve never had a problem in Mexico, but we drink the tap water anywhere we go and our stomachs are more robust.
During my many years of travel in Mexico, I have grown to love the culture and customs. When visiting tourist towns, venture to the outlying areas, to experience the real country. My family goes to Puerto Vallarta every year for a month. A few years ago I joined them. They say it is their favorite place in Mexico. Well, much to my surprise, it is the resort not the area. They don’t get out and explore the area. I hired a driver and got to explore the small historic towns, a forth generation tequila farm (best tequila I have found, so far), and a few amazing home cooked meals at locals homes. I do go back to visit, and explore new places. But not with family as they didn’t care for my adventurous spirit and missed happy hours at the resort. By the way, every time I left the resort gates, I felt like I was braking out of jail, to pure freedom.
As a Mexican I would also say, follow your common sense. If something is illegal in your country, definetely don’t dare to think that you can do it in Mexico because is a “lawless country”. Maybe in your country it would mean a jail sentence in the worst case, but in Mexico you can die. For example, DON’T FUCKING BUY DRUGS, you don’t have idea how sane is that person or how dangerous is. Drive as you would do in your country, don’t do crazy things like driving on a roof of a car (yes, I saw this, and one guy died in this way). If natives told you that you don’t have to visit that neighborhood or a place, just don’t do it. Maybe this sounds obvious to many people, but I feel that I should to say it, because I heard over the years cases and cases of foreigners risking their lifes and their relatives and friends while visiting Mexico.
It’s true my first time there the men at the bar taught me to say seen alcohol, and enjoyed that we were trying to learn. My mom is a pro haggler in Mexico she even haggled stuff like free passes to excerpt, swim with stingray, Dolphins, pay for one room get one free! The trick is to act like you don’t want it .
Everything he said is so true. The ppl are so sweet and domt just go to the regular places that everyone goes to actually get out and see the country. Its actually beautiful.. I went down there when I was 19 I visited my daughter’s great grandparents. We did get pulled over and I was over there way passed the date on my paper from the border so we had to pay the cop off so I wouldn’t go to jail. So when you do go always add another week to it. I was suppose to be there 2 weeks stayed for a month. I’m taking my dad own there so she can meet her family this summer she is now 13. I want her to learn her background. She domt even know how to speak Spanish but her dad9side that she done in Mexico know some English an trying to learn it more for her. Yes he is so right Lesnar some of the Spanish. It goes along way also learn how to handle pasos that was the hardest for me. When you get outside of the tourist cities they domt have bathrooms in the houses tho. And some places down have tubs they have showers but they are not walls to come up to keep the water from going everywhere so it does and they have like a drink in the middle of the bathroom. We had to boil water and go to the out house to take a pan bath lle they did in the old days. You can buy your antibiotics over the counter there but do not bring them home. Enjoy the visit tho. They do learn English every where Deen there but they cant speak it well like we learn Spanish here but domt use it after we leave school unless we are really good at it and do translate.
It’s really nice that your kids get to travel all over the world with you and gain exposure to other cultures and cuisines. I got Montezuma revenge really bad during my honeymoon week in Cancun. from eating a roadside rotisserie chicken. I was down for a few days. My wife was Ok because she didn’t touch the bird.
As a Mexican if your going there to a bar or party don’t go to over the top with you outfit. And this goes for women and men don’t leave your drink at the bar counter to go dance or anything if it is drugged the person that drugged will probably give a “ride” or show interest in you and take to a hotel and then take all your money plus everything on you even your clothes sometimes so be careful
I can attest to the validity of speaking Spanish – even the most basic stuff you can learn from Dora the Explorer – even in Cabo. People will totally help you out if your Spanish sucks too. So don’t be afraid to use it! Also, if you’re at anyplace fancy, (like a resort!) DRESS UP FOR DINNER! Oh my god, the staff were so much friendlier and happy to see me the times I showed up in a tie.
On the subject of tequila; more people than not (in my experience at least lol) don’t know that there’s technical tequila (must beat least 51% agave) and REAL tequila (100%.) That agave makes a huge difference in how smooth the product is. For most drinks and occasions, the spectrum of quality is relatively small. But in the case of tequila, that $40 Patron Silver is gonna make a world of difference.
Just got back from Mexico. Drove a new Toyota 4Runner from Tucson to Ensenada. Nice cheap Hotels there, with secured parking. Lots of bars … funny seeing the drunk Americans off the cruise ship from LA or San Diego falling on their asses on the downtown sidewalks. Camped in my tent right on the Pacific beach in some dusty little beach villages south of Ensenada. Was directed by a friendly local fisherman to relocate my tent to higher ground due to the high tide. Drove through several Mexican Army and Federal Police checkpoints. Never was searched or hassled. Drove on to Tijuana. What a place! Lived on fresh, locally caught seafood the entire time. Mexico is great!
Here are some Don’ts that he didn’t mention No matter why part of Mexico you are on keep an eye on your belongings. If you go to a bank to take money out make sure that it’s not a lot because some of the people inside will tell someone else so that they can rob you. If you go out make sure you have small amounts of money on different parts in other words have money in all most all your pockets because that way if someone wants to rob you they won’t take all of it
8:06 Where I am from in Mexico, there are even some people who sing for those on the bus while they are there. There are also mostly family run shops where I am from. In most shops where I used to live, the shops are actually part of their house, so most of the time they don’t let you use the bathroom.
There was this time at Cancun where I went to a park in 2016 and the guy explaining the ride said “raise your hands who doesn’t speak Spanish, from the 10 something people getting ready only I wasn’t raising my hand so I raised it out of panic (was 15 )and the guy went off explaining in English and when everyone but me passed I told him “bruh I speak Spanish but i was weird XD “
You still have to be careful with the public bus system I have not visited yet but I have a friend from Mexico that describe them as very crowded and to make sure there is a clown that gets on the bus and will make inappropriate jokes at your expence. If you do see one your best bet is to get off the bus and wait for the next one. People will also try to give you candy on the bus IT IS NOT free the do expect to to give them change for the candy.
It feels like he doesn’t really talk about the DONTS of México. I lived for some time in Izcalli being a güero europeo and life there is somewhat different to what I’m used in Europe. People would stare at me, would give me a weird glance, but they smile when they notice I use their dialect, try to adapt and try to be apart of their community. Mexicans are lovely when you get to know them more closely and they give you lots of advice when you’re lost. I never felt bad or lost in Izcalli, always met good people. Downside is that you need to know Spanish, English is a nogo there… So what do you don’t do in México? Expect Europeans to be on another planet. Their distancy is a bit strange but most parts are similar to México. Just be polite! And use gracias more than you would in your home country. Don’t be direct and use language to talk around the matter, especially if it is about something negative. Talk positive about the country and its country, they are very proud of if, for a reason.
I have been to other parts Latin America. It is much better to learn some Spanish so you convey you care and respect their culture. I had random locals, look out for my safety before my high school teacher guide did. Something you don’t find in people here in the USA. I always enjoyed the culture of Latin America over USA culture
My wife and I rented a car in Cancun and we were glad we did. We were able to take as much time or as little time as we wanted, instead of being stuck waiting or getting rushed with a tour bus. I agree about the speed bumps being horrible though. Why do they have speed bumps on the freeway?! (At least what I considered their freeway.)
Nice article bud. Went to Mexico for the first time last year and felt in love. I was at La Penita de Jaltemba, not in a resort and the people was so great. Can’t wait to go back during the holidays. I still don’t know where to go though. I’d like a resort where i can go out in town, safely. Thx again for this article. Sorry for my bad english 😉
I will be going to Mexico this summer (Mexico City, Guadlajara, Manzanillo, Oxaca, Playa Del Carmen etc.). My question is, do I need to worry about getting sick if i’m eating at small restaurants and street vendors? I will also be staying with some locals and eating some of their own food at their house. Should I worry about getting sick? What can I do to prevent getting sick?
When I travelled to Arizona everyone everyone was like your gonna love the tacos sooo much better than taco Bell. It’s gonna be out of this world! LIES! Yeah it’s still delicious and amazing and all, but the cheesy gordita crunch was still the most bliss I felt biting into any taco type food even the “authentic” stuff
Thank you for this article. I have a question for you: you say don’t drive if you can avoid it but also to haggle taxi drivers. I’ve only been to Mexico twice, both times to Los Cabos. The first time we assumed we could use Taxis and it ended up being $80 USD round trips from our hotel in the Corridor into town and they would not haggle with us-my wife who can speak Spanish even tried and it didn’t work. The second time we rented a car for $85 USD for the week. Do you have any tips for how to haggle with cab drivers?
Really surprised that you didn’t mention the amount of kidnapping and robbery that takes place outside of the resort areas(and sometimes in them) a ransom from someone in the states will usually get you home, but it’s hell to go through and I think that you should have at least mentioned the possibility.
Beware of cops in general. Also, one time in Tijuana, a male friend and I were dragged outside a club, we were just sitting at our table, they handcuffed him by the entrance, then I had 4 guys pressuring me to pay up to release him or they call the cops on us, and threatened by being forgotten in a mexican prison. I didn’t know any Spanish at the time, and neither did my friend. All I had was $100 on me, and they didn’t believe me. I didn’t even have more to put gas in the car to drive back through San Diego to LA. But luckily, one of the guys I guess liked me and let us go, and with broken English said we should be careful coming out there at night. We crossed the border into US and never looked back. (There is a walkable passage between Tijuana and San Diego) Luckily, my car was on US side. Now I wanna go to Guadalajara, equipped with intermediate Spanish, but a bit concerned about cops or such situations.
Tipping 20% is a bit higher, it’s usually between 10-15% but hey if you wanna be generous then go ahead lol . Also because Cabo and Cancun are filled with tourist some stuff is overpriced, so if you’re buying shirts or simple things you can ask them to lower the price, but if you’re paying for a handmade object, like traditional Mexican dolls that indigenous people make, or alebrijes, etc. Then I would pay the full price because it’s supporting local people 🙂
People will talk to you and help you a lot of if you speak spanish, plus Spanish is an extremely useful language to know. Learn it, and when you go to Mexico, Ecuador, Columbia, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Spain, etc. etc. people will talk a lot more and be a lot more helpful. You don’t need to learn the super hard grammar rules, like the difference between “de que” and “que” as “that”, because native speaks even make that mistake too. They also use the subjunctive tense a lot (unlike English, to where it has went out of use almost completely), so dont forget that too.
Im Mexican and I’ve visited a lot of Mexico. I’ll tell you, if you want to keep alive the traditions and the culture, go downtown and wander around the streets of the cathedral area. That’s where most of the times the real natives sell their “artesanías”. Buy it as it is. In some cases you even see them making the products. They usually have kids sitting next to them or even helping them. They live off of that. Don’t be assholes to them please.
I don’t agree with the haggle part! Lot of indigenous people take time to make these items. Show interest and ask. If the vendor really wants to sell they will reduce price without you asking. There is nothing worse than a person devaluing someone’s work. With taxis, yes it’s smart to know how much it will cost you before you get in… but don’t be that person taking away from an honest person trying to make a fair living in a country where they make way less. Lot of this is common sense. what are you willing to pay for an authentic item. If you are getting in a taxi please don’t haggle! If you know the exchange currency you will know if the taxi driver is trying to take advantage of you. What would you pay in your country for a taxi drive? Your tip suggestion was on point 👍🏾
I’m from Tucson and we go down into Sonora once a year to visit family and go to the beach with friends and its not uncommon that when we pass through Puerto Peñasco the cops would try and give a fake ticket and pretend they dont speak english, usually saying lets go to the station would get them off our back doubly so if they are fake cops. Interesting how it never happened when my not white dad drove haha
I am mexican and agree with you on the driving, if mexican cops realize you are foreigner or alien they will tray to confuse you with the officila rules, also they would know you do not have time for paying the fines, therefore they will try to get a bribe and even they would offer an “entourage” to the ATM and of course this will be more dangerous situation
What about Playa de Maya we’re going there in May is that a good place and is there something I shouldn’t do or something that you would like to warn me about? Also for a week-long trip if we really want to have a good time and spend freely and do pretty much whatever we want how much money do you suggest bringing and how do I go about caring money and bringing it with me?