Those who have never been to Mexico probably have little idea what Mexico can offer them. There are actually hundreds of different things to do in Mexico for each age group. Mexico has a rich culture and deep heritage. Each area of Mexico offers something different for history, science, and art buffs.

Those interested in Mayan ruins should know that the ruins are much better seen in person than in pictures. Those who enjoy the beach, but would love to also see the ruins would enjoy Tulum as the ruins are set right off a beach that welcomes swimmers. Many history and art lovers can be found rafting the Veracruz river which offers some somewhat tame rapids and cuts through two sets of ruins.

Taxco has a lot to offer those who are interested in silver production in Mexico. It’s a fairly quiet city on a mountainside. There are also caves nearby that often satisfy the needs of anyone looking to learn about the geology of Mexico. Speaking of which, those interested in geology are urged to boat down the Sumidero Canyon. There are many rock features on the rock canyon walls that will astound pretty much anyone. Those who are interested in learning more about the history of the canyon can check out the nearby eco-park for a fun learning experience. Copper Canyon offers amazing views from the nearby railway. Many crafts can be purchased from the natives in the Copper Canyon area. This is also a great place to hike or paint a beautiful scene.

Tequila is an important part of Mexican heritage. For those interested in learning more about its production, it’s a good idea to head to the town of Tequila, Mexico. Many tequila producers run tours and tastings of the drink. Those looking to see some stunning architecture can see some in pretty much any large Mexican city (and a lot of small ones,) but many head to Mexico City for its beautiful buildings and cathedrals.

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.

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.

Anyone traveling to Mexico will likely have some tequila at one point on their trip as this is the national drink of Mexico. However, many people do not know much about tequila — where it comes from or how it’s made. Tequila, made from the agave plant, was first developed by the Spanish near Tequila, Mexico. The Toltec Indians would make candy from the plants’ sugars. The Spanish saw this and decided to use the plants’ sugars to make alcohol. This led to the creation of the drink. The first tequila factory was opened in 1600. For many years, the Toltec Indians tried to get the town of Tequila back in many uprisings which started in 1541, but they didn’t succeed until 1810 about 270 years later.

Tourists who visit this region are greeting by an expanse of blue agave leaves. Many distilleries in the area give tours and allow tourists to try the drink. Those tourists who are lucky enough to visit during harvest season may catch a glimpse of the agave plants being harvested and prepared for tequila making. To do this, workers remove the leaves from the plant to leave behind the large agave pinas which are then processed. The juice from the creamy, white core of the agave plant is the juice used to make tequila. The average worker can only harvest about 200 plants a day as the process is tedious and the weather is often hot. One plant can make about five bottles of tequila. Because most agave is grown in this area and because of the agave plant’s size, not as much tequila is made as one would think. The supply of tequila is limited leading to the high cost of tequila on the international market. The amount of tequila actually made doesn’t meet the demand which makes the drink even more special.

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.