Cabo San Lucas, on the Baja Peninsula, is located at the bay where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific ocean. This area has just recently become popular with tourists, so it offers a quieter and friendlier atmosphere than other more touristy areas of Mexico. There are many different types of hotels at Cabo San Lucas from its small and intimate hotels to all-inclusive beach resorts.

There are many things for travelers to do in Cabo San Lucas including golf, water sports, and sightseeing. Sportfishing is popular in the area and marlin is the main reason many sport fishers find themselves in the area. Tourists can find sport fishing lessons as many companies will take tourists out and teach them the tricks of the trade. Cabo San Lucas is also a great tourist location for families as it offers amazing beaches where children can play in the sand or go swimming. Those interested in scuba diving, parasailing, or surfing will also find that these activities are popular in the area. There are also many guides who are willing to teach tourists how to do water sports. Many of them have their own boat and will take tourists either in large groups or in smaller intimate groups. This is not only a fun way to learn something new, but is also a great way to meet new people. May it be diving, playing outdoor sports, or simply relaxing in the beach, you’ll never run out of things to do at Cabo San Lucas resorts.

There are many sights that make this area a great place for photo opportunities and sightseeing. Cabo San Lucas is famous for its natural stone formation, known as El Arco, which is located at Land’s End. Many tourists also take photos of sunsets in Cabo San Lucas and some of the more picturesque areas of the town itself. Cabo San Lucas is also known for its seafood which attracts many seafood lovers from more landlocked areas.

Mexico has a deep history which has allowed its to cultivate a rich culture that has survived over several centuries. There are many things that make Mexico’s culture much different than many world cultures as well as cultures of neighboring countries. The culture within Mexico can also differ quite a bit depending on the region.

Because of Spanish control of Mexico, the main language of Mexico is Spanish. Mexican Spanish and Spain Spanish actually differ quite a bit. Those who learn Spanish in high schools in the United States usually learn Mexican Spanish over Spain Spanish. Luckily, the forms of the language are similar enough for people from Spain and Mexico to understand each other. There are also over 100 other languages spoken in Mexico which include Maya and Nahuatl.

The family is very important for Mexicans. Outside of the larger cities, families can get quite large. Extended family is often as important as immediate family, which give families a more communal feel and provides stability. In the case that travelers are invited to a Mexican home, it is important to know proper Mexican etiquette. It is appropriate for visitors to bring a gift, but it’s a good idea to stay away from flowers unless the traveler knows what different flowers mean (marigolds are bad luck, red flowers have negative implications, etc.) It’s considered impolite to arrive at a dinner party less than 30 minutes late. Arriving early or on time is considered rude. The amount of food left on the plate actually is considered a part of etiquette and this differs from country to country. In some countries it’s considered impolite to leave any food on the plate which may signify that the person did not enjoy the meal. In Mexico it is considered impolite for a person to eat all the food on their plate which may signify that the person did not receive enough food.

Acapulco, a major sea port on the Pacific coast of Mexico, is an increasingly popular travel destination. Once a place that has lost major popularity with tourists, Acapulco is climbing back up as a major tourist attraction in Mexico. Major hotels in Acapulco have been updated and much has been done about the pollution and sewer system in Acapulco. Acapulco is a great place for tourists who wish to get off the beaten path as it isn’t as touristy as places like Cancun and Cozumel.

Those who are adventurous can try cliff diving of of La Quebrada. The activity of jumping of this cliff into the swirling water below has been popular since the mid 1930s. Jumpers have to be wary of the strong current and tide below, however. There is a water park called CICI right by the main beach which is a must visit for travelers with children. The area also offers many water sports. Isla de la Roqueta is a small island off of Acapulco that travelers can get to by ferry. Fishing, snorkeling, and diving are popular here as well as swimming as the island is surrounded by shallower water than that of Acapulco.

Acapulco’s town square, Zócalo, allows tourists to see more culture than town squares of most other Mexican tourist cities. The cathedral is located in this area as well as many small shops and restaurants. Those wishing to get away from the tourist scene in Acapulco can visit the nearby town of Puerto Marquez, which is quieter and friendlier. It’s a good idea for travelers here to know some, even if just a little, Spanish as Puerto Marquez isn’t really a tourist area thus far less locals speak English. Puerto Marquez is a great place for travellers to experience Mexican food at its finest. The food and lodging here is also cheaper here than Acapulco.

The Yucatan peninsula is known for its beaches, but known more so for the Mayan ruins which dot the area. These ruins give tourists the chance to touch the same structures that those in an ancient civilization did. They also give visitors the chance to learn how those living in this ancient civilization lived.

At one time, Mayapan, located just 25 miles from Merida, was the political and cultural capital of the Yucatan peninsula for the Mayans. The area, which is approximately two and a half square miles, now contains over 4000 structures. A large part of the archaeological site is surrounded by a large stone wall which was used as a defensive structure by the Mayans.

Chichen Itza, is located in the center of the Yucatan peninsula and was constructed before 600 AD. The area contains beautiful columns, stone walls, temples, and even ball court which was used by the Mayans to play Mesoamerican ballgame. The Great Ball Court, which is located here, is one of the most impressive examples of Mayan ball courts that still exist. There are no above ground rives in the area, but the Yucatan is famous for its underground rivers. The landscape nearby is dotted with ceynotes which are large, natural sinkholes that area caused by these underground rivers. One of the most popular ceynotes of the area is the Seynote Sagrado (or Sacred Ceynote.) The Seynote Segrado was used to make sacrifices to the god of water by the Mayans when there was a drought.

Another great set of Mayan ruins on the Yucatan are the ruins of Tulum. The ruins of Tulum are the only ruins in Mexico which are right on the ocean. The main temple sits on a rock formation over the ocean. The beach below offers swimmers the chance to look up at the ruins of Tulum while enjoying the warm ocean water.

Morelia, which is the capital of the Mexican state of Michoacan, is a colonial style city that is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico. This city is not popular with tourists for some reason, giving those few tourists who do travel through it the chance to experience a wonderful place in Mexico without being “another tourist.” Although this isn’t a location on the traditional tourist track, many people here speak both Spanish and English. This is because Morelia is a large college town and many students have learned English as a part of their studies. Morelia is full of parks, cute shops, nice weather, and beautiful architecture. Besides being a large college town, it is also the capital of the State making it a center of governmental importance.

Great sites in Morelia include the baroque style cathedral that dominates the downtown area. The cathedral shows a great example of flying buttresses and tiled cupolas. The “Day of the Dead” celebration takes place here each November, so it’s important for those traveling to note this ahead of time if they wish to take part or to avoid the crowds and go elsewhere. The “Day of the Dead” festival cannot be missed, however. Another architectural feat that cannot be missed is the aqueduct. The aqueduct runs down the Avenida Acueducto. Built in the 17th century, this huge aqueduct brought water to Morelia in the city’s youth. The Santuario de Guadalupe, adorned in pink and white with gold trim work, is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Mexico. It also contains many oil paintings which cannot be missed. Casa de Artesanias, located on the Plaza San Francisco, is a great place for those looking to buy art and any wares. The art here can be purchased cheaper than other more touristy places in Mexico and is usually more authentic.

It’s important for anyone traveling Mexico to try “real” Mexican food. Oddly enough, the Mexican food that is common in the US is not quite an accurate representation of true Mexican food. The kind of Mexican food that Americans often eat actually originates from New Mexico, which was once a part of Mexico, and it often gets mistaken for Mexican food as a whole. Most Americans are unaware that most of the food served at their local restaurant is more American and less Mexican than they think. Also, in some “authentic” Mexican restaurants, many key sauces such as mole are replaces with tomato based sauces. Many who have tried much of the cuisine that really exists in Mexico say that American Mexican food and real Mexican food differ as much as American Chinese food and real Chinese food. Many Mexicans who have tried the American version of Mexican food have described it as unfamiliar. Sure, travelers can get burritos, tacos, and salsa in Mexico, but this is not what Mexican food is all about.

Mexican food varies by region because of the variance of flora and fauna in the different regions and because of different influences and cultures. Many regions have Spanish influence and some regions even have some middle eastern influence in the food. The northern areas of Mexico are known for dishes containing ostrich, beef, and goat. In Southeastern Mexico, many of the dishes are spicy and often contain chicken. Because of its geographical location fish and other seafood are also highly popular here. In the west of Mexico and the Oaxacan region, many dishes are very spicy. The Yucatan area is known for using less hot spices in their food and, instead, using more sweet spices such as sugar in their food. Central Mexico, because of its geographic location, has a mixture of the types of foods from other areas in Mexico.

Mexicans are proud people with a rich heritage. They are also a very friendly and warm people, but as with any culture, care should be taken to prevent offending anyone. There are many Mexican rules of etiquette that are very similar to American etiquette and many that differ.

Unlike most countries, it is actually considered impolite to come early or on time when visiting a Mexican in their home. It is considered polite to arrive 15 minutes to half an hour late. It is polite for those entering a church to take of their hat and sunglasses. While many tourists may get caught up in the touring and photography of different churches, it is important for them to realize these are actually place where people still worship and this must be respected.

Mexico has its share of problems, like any country. Many of these issues are tender subjects to Mexicans. While many may be willing to complain about a political issue, travelers must be aware that it’s similar to the idea of one complaining about a relative of the theirs to another relative which is fine until a non-relative starts complaining. It’s okay to talk about politics, but care must be taken not to offend those living in Mexico.

America is a melting pot so different people going to Mexico will experience different “words” to describe them. Many of these terms are actually just words and do not mean offense. For example, a Caucasian person may be referred to as a gringo which is not an insult. An Asian person may be referred to as a chino and those from African descent may be referred to as negro or negra. These are simply words and aren’t used as an insult or are hateful words… just description words.

Many of those who have learned Spanish may have heard the word “estúpido.” This doesn’t just mean “stupid,” it is actually an insult. Although many estúpido jokes may have been made in high school Spanish class along with many other choice words, it is generally not acceptable to use it in Mexico.

Thousands of travelers each year find themselves in the beautiful Riviera Maya region. There are many things to do here and there is something for almost anyone. Riviera Maya, located in the Yucatan, has a myriad of activities for the young and old alike.

For those interested in seeing historical sites, the Tulum ruins are nearby. These ruins are the only ruins by the sea in Mexico and is considered one of the most beautiful things about Riviera Maya. At Tulum, one can see more than sixty structures. By the main temple, there is a small beach where travelers can swim and look up at the ruins. Cobá is a great place for visiters walk among many Mayan architectural wonders such as temples and other structures reaching up from the jungle floor.

Riviera Maya is also a great place for those who enjoy water sports. Snorkeling and scuba diving is highly popular here as the region has a sprawling underwater ecosystem. Xel-Ha is the best place in the area to explore underwater life. The area is surrounded by underwater caves, rocky coastlines, and thick jungles. The beaches at Akumal offer silky white beaches perfect for swimming.

For those who enjoy a little excitement, there is much to be done at Xcaret, which is a theme park that allows visitors to swim with dolphins, walk jungle trails, learn about Yucatan ecology, and swim at the beach. The park also allows visitors to floats down one of two rivers in the area. Akun Chen gives visitors the chance to explore caves and subterranean rivers flow through many of the area’s caves.

Travelers who prefer to just relax often enjoy many of the areas spas. Many of these spas give personalized treatments in a relaxing environment. This is a treat for not only the sense of touch, but the sense of smell as well. Many of the area spas offer treatments such as clay massages, crystal therapy, and even henna tattoos.

Those who wish to travel to a historical, fun, beautiful, and large city should consider Mexico City. Mexico City has just about everything for just about anyone. The Zócalo (main square) is the largest main square in Latin America. Another thing that makes it special is that is the location where Montezuma’s palace once stood. Mexico City is filled with monuments, fountains, plane trees, and friendly people.

Chapultepec Park should not be missed as it is a 2000 acre park containing many different types of entertainment including three museums one of which is the National Museum of Anthropology. The National Museum of Anthropology, which was built in the 1960s, has one of the best collections of ancient Mexican crafts, jewelery, sculptures, and more. This is truly a place where tourists can get a look into the lives of those who lived hundreds of years ago before the Spanish even came to Mexico. For those with children, it’s a good idea to take them to the Papalote which is a children’s museum filled with educational and fun experiences. Papalote is also located in Chapultepac Park. There are also many different beautiful historic neighborhoods in the area for those who wish to see some of Mexico’s finest architecture. There are also many zoos in Mexico City as well as amusement parks for those who don’t really care much for history. Mexico City houses both Six Flags Mexico, which includes Batman the Ride and the Medusa Roller Coaster, and La Feria de Chapultepec, which has Mexico’s first roller coaster and many other attractions.

Mexico City is very much unlike American cities as there is no distinct downtown. American cities such as Chicago have the largest high rises in the center of the city whereas Mexico City has high rises all over the place making for many different places a tourist can explore. The Ciudadela crafts market is a great place to buy crafts made by different cultural groups. This is great for those who wish to see “real” Mexican crafts.

For those who are looking for a luxurious vacation, there is no need to look any further than Cancun, Mexico. Those who’ve never been to Cancun may wonder what there is to do in Cancun besides bake in the sun. There is actually a lot to do in Cancun. Those traveling to Cancun should have an idea of what they’re looking for in a vacation. Those looking for a romantic setting may want to plan on some more romantic types of activities and those looking to party may want to do something different. Luckily, Cancun is a great destination for vacationers of all shapes and sizes.

Those looking to enjoy water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, swimming, etc, may want to consider the lagoon side as these types of water sports are more popular on this side. Those looking to surf are urged to head over the the Caribbean side of Cancun where the waves are higher.

Many people honeymoon in Cancun and there are many romantic getaways here. Many honeymooners stay in the beach side villas so they can get an ocean breeze and a romantic setting. There are many all-inclusive resorts in the area that have great packages for honeymooners.

Those who are vacationing with children may want to plan on some activities that would be fun for the whole family. There are many water parks and activities that many different types of people enjoy. Many resorts also have activities on the premises that children enjoy. Some even offer babysitting so adults have time to enjoy their own activities.

Cancun has a nightlife like no other. With bars and nightclubs nearly everywhere, the party seems to never end in Cancun. Different clubs offer different types of atmospheres and music, so no-one is left out. There are many different clubs that offer salsa music, world music, techno, etc. The music varieties are almost limitless, so any one wanting to party can do so in Cancun.