Mexico is a country of contrasts. The most interesting facts. Mexico: general information about the country What is Mexico
Useful information for tourists about Mexico, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Mexico, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions in Mexico.
Geography of Mexico
The United Mexican States is a state in North America, bordered in the north by the United States, in the southeast by Belize and Guatemala, and is washed by the waters of the Gulf of California (Pacific Ocean), the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
Mexico owns a number of islands in the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Most of the country is occupied by the ridges of the Mexican Highlands, Sierra Madre and Transverse Volcanic Sierra with many active volcanoes (about 350), including the highest point of the country - Orizaba (5700 m), Popocatepetl - (5452 m), etc. Volcanic activity is quite high, and earthquakes are also frequent.
State
State structure
Federal Republic. The head of state is the president. The legislative body is the bicameral National Congress (Senate and Chamber of Deputies).
Language
Official language: Spanish
Local ethnic groups speak their native languages (Nahuatl, Mayan, Otomi, Zapoteca, etc.). English is widely spoken.
Religion
Catholics (89%), Protestants (6%).
Currency
International name: MXP
The Mexican peso is equal to 100 centavos (cents). In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10 pesos and coins in 50, 20, 10 and 5 centavos.
Currency exchange can be done in banks, large hotels, airports (usually the best rate) or specialized exchange offices "casas de cambio". Difficulties often arise with exchanging worn-out banknotes or banknotes of old series.
Most hotels, restaurants, shops and travel agencies accept leading credit cards and traveler's checks (preferably in US dollars). A network of ATMs is widely developed in resort areas.
US dollars are also accepted almost everywhere (the exchange rate is not the most favorable). When exchanging, you should be careful - there may be attempts to cheat.
History of Mexico
The appearance of humans in Mexican lands dates back to the 20th millennium BC and was caused by constant migration of the population. In the 10th century, the Mayan people came from the north to the Yucatan Peninsula, encountering an already existing, more ancient civilization of city-states.
Another people, the Aztecs, founded Tenochtitlan (Mexico City) at the beginning of the 2nd millennium AD, and in the 15th century they already controlled the entire territory of Central Mexico. Irrigation was widely used in their economy; they owned weaving and pottery production. The city of Tenochtitlan in the 15th–16th centuries became one of the largest cities in the world. It had up to 300 thousand inhabitants and 65 thousand houses, and was equipped with a complex system of dams and canals that ensured its water supply. The Aztecs, who owned a vast area of Mexican territory, laid the foundations of a state organization here, and the city of Tenochtitlan was the capital of the Aztec state. The Aztec leader had at least a hundred thousand troops, which, however, did not know firearms or horses. According to their worldview, the Aztecs were pagans and made human sacrifices to the gods.
The further development of these centers of statehood was stopped by the invasion of Spanish conquerors in 1517. They captured the Aztec capital, killed the Aztec emperor Montezuma, took possession of his golden treasures and, ultimately, established Spanish rule and established Christianity (Catholicism) throughout the country. As a result, very distinctive ancient American civilizations were destroyed and then consigned to oblivion.
By the end of the 16th century, the conquest of the Mexican Plateau was completed. The Viceroyalty of New Spain was formed on the occupied lands, transferring full power to the feudal landowners who arrived here. Numerous attempts by Indians in the 17th–18th centuries to free themselves from the colonialists did not lead to success. The power of the metropolis was able to collapse only at the beginning of the 19th century, thanks to the weakening of Spain caused by the Napoleonic conquest. And although two uprisings that took place in 1810–1813 were suppressed, Mexico gained independence in 1821. In 1823, a republic was established in the country, declaring equal rights before the law for everyone.
The economic backwardness of the young state, its advantageous strategic position and worsening internal instability turned the attention of the United States here. They annexed Texas in 1845 and the following year began a series of wars of conquest, capturing half of Mexico's lands by 1854. The unsatisfactory actions of the government led to a social explosion that turned into a civil war in 1857. By 1867, fighting had ceased. It was mainly the republican-landowner circles that gained a foothold in power. The feudal remnants they preserved became the cause of the revolution of 1910–1917. Her victory weakened the position of the latifundists and strengthened the political role of the industrialists. The danger of a Japanese invasion forced the cabinet of ministers to declare war on the fascist bloc in 1941. In the post-war period, progressive democratic reforms were somewhat delayed, but nevertheless contributed to the further development of this Latin American state.
The appearance of man in Mexican lands dates back to the 20th millennium BC and was caused by constant migration of the population. In the 10th century, the Mayan people came from the north to the Yucatan Peninsula, encountering an already existing, more ancient civilization of city-states....
Popular attractions
Tourism in Mexico
Where to stay
Mexico, the cradle of the ancient civilizations of the Mayans and Aztecs, a country of outlandish nature with many paradises and hospitable people, has long won the love of tourists from all over the world. Thousands of kilometers of wonderful seashore, tropical forests, and a large number of architectural monuments create all the conditions for active and family recreation.
In addition to a huge number of attractions, Mexico has a fairly high level of service and a developed tourism infrastructure. Here you will find any housing, depending on your financial capabilities. The range of hotels in Mexico is varied and has a standard five-star classification, which is strictly controlled at the state level.
The country's hotels, which have a two-star level, include responsive staff, excellent service, and private swimming pools. Hotels, the level of which starts from three stars, offer vacationers 24-hour room service, their own bars and restaurants, snow-white beaches with clear water, picturesque swimming pools, Jacuzzis with waterfalls, and saunas. For lovers of active recreation, there will be an opportunity to engage in windsurfing, diving, yachting and other entertainment.
In addition to these hotels in Mexico, there are hotels of the Granturismo category, which are separate complexes that have everything necessary for a comfortable stay - from their own shops to helipads. Another category of such hotels is Special, which, in addition to a set of services of Granturismo class complexes, offer their guests some kind of exclusive service, for example, a free diving tour to their own island.
For fans of inexpensive travel in Mexico, small family and budget hotels, hunting lodges, and hostels with inexpensive spacious rooms and good Mexican cuisine offer their services.
Popular hotels
Excursions and attractions in Mexico
Mexico is an amazing country with a rich historical and cultural heritage, as well as stunning natural landscapes. Famous archaeological sites of the ancient Mayan and Aztec tribes, magnificent colonial architecture, excellent museums, tropical forests, snow-capped volcanoes, luxurious beaches, and, of course, traditional Mexican cuisine create a unique atmosphere and special flavor. A trip to Mexico will leave indelible impressions in your memory and bring a lot of pleasure.
Mexico's most famous sights are, of course, the magnificent structures of ancient civilizations. Among the most interesting places, it is worth highlighting the abandoned city of Teotihuacan with the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, perfectly preserved to this day, as well as the Temple of the Feathered Serpent (Quetzalcoatl). Of particular interest is the pyramid in Cholula, which is considered the largest such structure in the world, surpassing in size the famous Pyramid of Cheops (unfortunately, most of it is destroyed today). Invaluable monuments of ancient civilizations are the sacred city of Chichen Itza, the archaeological complex of Monte Alban in the Oaxaca Valley, the ancient capital of the Toltecs Tula, Tajin (El Tajin), as well as Uxmal, Tulum, Palenque, Mitla and Mayapan.
The capital of Mexico, Mexico City, is the cultural, economic and political center of the country. This huge metropolis is rightfully considered one of the most colorful cities in the world. Here you will find a lot of interesting places and attractions. It is definitely worth visiting the Cathedral, the National Palace, Constitution Square, Chapultepec Palace, the Palace of Fine Arts, Alameda Park, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the National Anthropological Museum, Xochimilco and the Plaza de la Three Cultures. No less interesting are the Tower Mayor, the House and Studio of Luis Barragan, the Azulezos House, the National History Museum, the Caricature Museum, the Frida Kahlo House Museum, the Polyforum Museum of Contemporary Art and the world's largest bullring. In Mexico City you will also see many beautiful churches that were built in the 17th-18th centuries. Not far from the capital are the charming colonial-style town of Taxco, which is famous for its silversmiths, and the “city of eternal spring” - Cuernavaca.
Particularly popular among tourists are the famous “night capital” of Mexico - Acapulco, the picturesque city of Guadalajara, Campeche, the resort area of Cancun (one of the best resorts in the world) and, of course, the paradise for divers, the island of Cozumel. Among the magnificent Mexican resorts, it is necessary to note such places as Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen (Riviera Maya) and Los Cabos.
Great pleasure and a lot of impressions will also be provided by the magnificent Shel-Ha National Park - a natural aquarium in a mountain cave, Copper Canyon, Crocotown "crocodile park", La Molinche and Pico de Orizaba parks, Basaseachi waterfall, Selestum rare bird reserve and Xcaret Ecopark .
Mexican cuisine
Mexican cuisine is famous for its culinary traditions all over the world. You may find some dishes a little spicy at first, but you will still appreciate their taste. As a rule, national dishes are not complete without at least one of three typical components: tortillas (corn tortillas), beans and hot chili peppers.
The appetizers are genius, just like everything simple. Actually, most popular snacks - nachos, quesadillas, tacos, tostados, chimichangas - are the same unleavened corn tortillas (not only from corn, but also from wheat “imported” by the Spaniards) with fillings from corn, beans, peppers, cheeses, meats minced meat with tomatoes, for example, picadillo.
Stews with seafood, legumes, and spices are common. Salt, chili and tortillas must be on the table.
Hot dishes are prepared from several types of meat; goulash olla podrida, fried beef ribbons with a side dish of carne asado, and even the famous chili con carne, the preparation of which is held in real championships, are popular. Again, hot flatbreads with fillings: reminiscent of our dumplings or empanadas, which were once a simple omelette, and then turned into a kind of enchiladas rolls, thick, like packs on the back of a donkey, burritos. Well, for lovers of antiquity - aromatic tamales, steamed pieces of corn dough, wrapped in a leaf of corn on the cob and topped with a sauce of your choice.
The most famous Mexican dessert is the sweet royal bread Rosca de Reyes, the center of which is filled with dried fruit, and a doll is placed inside, symbolizing the infant Christ and the onset of the fiesta.
Mexican cuisine is famous for its culinary traditions all over the world. You may find some dishes a little spicy at first, but you will still appreciate their taste. As a rule, national dishes are not complete without at least one of three typical components: tortillas (corn tortillas), beans and hot chili peppers....
Tips
It is customary to leave it in restaurants, bars, porters, taxi drivers, etc. - 10% of the total bill.
Visa
Office hours
Banks are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays (some bank branches are open even until 12 p.m. or until 1 a.m.), and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Sunday is a day off. Some bank branches in resort areas are also open from 16:00 to 18:00, on Saturday - from 10:00 to 13:30 and from 16:00 to 18:00, and on Sunday - from 10:00 to 13:30.
Shops are usually open from 9 to 19-22 hours with a traditional siesta break from 14 to 16 hours, the day off is Sunday.
The day off for museums, archaeological sites and theaters is usually Monday.
Purchases
VAT (IVA) is 15% and is usually included in all prices and invoices, but in some luxury hotels prices are quoted excluding tax. VAT is also charged on telephone calls, housing rent, etc.
Medicine
No special vaccinations are required, but it is recommended to take prophylaxis against malaria, vaccination against hepatitis A and B, and also take out international health insurance.
Medical care is paid and quite expensive. The purchase of some medications is only possible with a doctor's prescription, so you should bring the necessary long-term medications with you (with mandatory documentary evidence of the indication for their use).
Safety
Mexico continues to have a high crime rate, primarily pickpocketing and robbery. It is recommended to travel by car, bus and train only during the day. Taxis are recommended only from official stands ("sitios"), otherwise the chance of becoming a victim of robbery is quite high. It is recommended to order a taxi by phone, making sure to obtain the car number and taxi driver's license number from the dispatcher. At Mexico City Airport, you should only hire yellow airport taxis (with the airport logo on the door) and pay in advance at the appropriate "Transportacion Terrestre" kiosk in the airport lobby.
Try to drive on toll roads ("cuota") - they are safer. It is also recommended to avoid solo hikes in provincial areas, and often hitchhike. There are known cases of extortion of money by people in uniform.
Emergency numbers
Police, ambulance, fire brigade and other emergencies - 06.
Questions and feedback about Mexico
Question answer
Tijuana - Questions and Answers
Puebla - Questions and Answers
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Question answer
Almost a year has passed since our trip to North America and today we decided to refresh our memory of this trip by compiling 50 facts about Mexico based on our impressions. We do not pretend to be objective - this is exclusively our vision of the country.
1. Burritos and tacos- This is a national and very popular food here, based on flatbreads made from corn, wheat and even cactus flour. The second component is meat, chicken or vegetables and definitely beans or beans, all seasoned with hot chili sauce.
2. Fresh juices, as well as various soft drinks sold on every corner, very cheap, but be careful - ice is generously put in there or diluted with water of unknown origin 
3. Fruit on the streets They are sold already peeled and cut, in plastic bags. Before selling, they are offered to sprinkle chili powder and sugar on top - for those who like it hotter
4. Homemade ice cream, which can be found on sale, is sold without packaging, and what appears to be chocolate chips may turn out to be chili peppers. Even when buying ice cream, you need to clarify - “but spicy please” =)
5. Tequila(full name Santiago de Tequila) is the name of the Mexican city in which the main production of the drink of the same name is located.
6. Blue agave- this is the plant from which Tequila is made, contrary to popular belief that it is made from cacti. Blue agave belongs to the asparagus family and looks like a small bush with thorns, which is probably why the stereotype about cacti appeared.
7. Tequilero- this is the name of a tequila specialist.
8. Popular local sweets: marshmallow from apple and other fruits - in the form of toffee and in the form of cubes; lime candied coconut; sweet beans with chili peppers in the form of chuchkhela.
9. Boiled corn It is also a popular delicacy here - you can buy the cob whole or already peeled in a glass. The seller, in addition to corn, adds salt and mayonnaise to the glass, sprinkles it with cheese and squeezes lime juice onto the whole mixture. The price for both the cob and the glass is the same - a little more than a dollar.
10. Corn Here it is generally a universal product - it is eaten raw, boiled and grilled, it is used to make flatbreads, stew, yogurt and even corn ice cream with pieces of corn.
16. Underwater Museum with four hundred sculptures located at a depth of about 2 to 10 meters is located nearby. It will certainly appeal to divers who are bored with tropical fish and coral reefs.
17. Beaches Cancun and Tulum are ranked among the top ten beaches in the world according to TripAdvisor.
18. Cenotes- these are natural wells or small lakes that the Mayan Indians used as sources of water and places for sacrifices; they will definitely appeal to snorkeling enthusiasts. Most cenotes are located in caves with many bizarre stalactites and stalagmites. The water there is crystal clear and pleasantly cool, good for relaxing from the heat outside.
19. Iguanas different colors and sizes are very often found in 
20. In official taxis There must be a state license with a photograph of the driver hanging on the glass. To avoid misunderstandings, it is recommended to check the photo with the person driving.
21. Taxi in Mexico City varies according to safety classes. The safer it is, the more expensive it is, but in general it is quite cheap. For 3-4 people, it is often more profitable to take a taxi than to go by public transport 
22. Cost of local calls from a pay phone does not depend on the duration of the conversation. For example, it will cost 3 pesos (25 cents) 
23. Mexico City located in the mountains, at an altitude of 2240 m, so if you are flying from the coast or lowland parts, be prepared to wear a sweater or jacket when leaving the airport. It is warm here during the day, but quite cool in the morning and evening.
Mexico map
Video presentation of Mexico for tourists
Geography
Mexico is located in the south of North America and occupies most of Middle America. In the north, Mexico borders the United States (namely the states of California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas), the length of the border is 3141 km. East of the city of Ciudad Juarez to the Gulf of Mexico, the border follows the winding Rio Grande River. Several natural and man-made markers define the US border west from Ciudad Juarez to the Pacific Ocean.
Mexico is washed from the west and south by the Pacific Ocean, and from the east by the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. In the southeast, Mexico borders Guatemala (871 km) and Belize (251 km). Mexico is the northern part of Latin America and the most populous Spanish-speaking country.
Almost the entire territory of Mexico is on the North American Plate, only the California Peninsula is on the Pacific Plate and the Cocos Plate. In terms of physical geography, the area east of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, which makes up 12.1% of the country's territory and consists of the five Mexican states of Campeche, Chiapas, Tabasco, Quintana Roo, and Yucatan, is located in Central America. Geologically, the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt separates the northern region of the country. Geopolitically, Mexico is considered a North American country.
The total area of Mexico is 1,972,550 km², including about 6 thousand km² of islands in the Pacific Ocean (including Guadalupe Island and the Revilla Gijedo archipelago), the Gulf of California and the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. In terms of area, Mexico ranks 14th in the world.
The length of Mexico's coastline is 9,330 km - 7,338 km on the Pacific side and 2,805 km on the Atlantic side. Mexico's exclusive economic zone, which extends 370 km from both coasts, covers an area of 2.7 million km². The width of the Mexican land mass decreases as it moves south of the US border, and then curves north to form the 500-kilometer Yucatan Peninsula, so that the capital of Yucatan state, Merida, is further north than Mexico City or Guadalajara.
Climate
In northern Mexico the climate is subtropical, in the rest of the country it is tropical. The coastal plains are humid and hot. In the Acapulco area on the Pacific coast, daytime temperatures throughout the year do not fall below +30 degrees, and night temperatures range from 21 to 24 degrees Celsius. On the Caribbean coast it is a little cooler. In the winter months, during the day the air warms up to +24 degrees, and in the summer - up to +31, while at night in winter it is about 19 degrees Celsius, and in summer - 25 degrees Celsius.
In the central highlands of Mexico, maximum temperatures are observed in April and May - +27 degrees, and at night in these same months the air cools to +11..+13 degrees. In winter, daytime air temperatures rise to +21 degrees, with night temperatures reaching about 7 degrees.
Mexico has a well-defined altitudinal zone - at altitudes in the northern part of the country in winter, temperatures can drop below 0 degrees. During the dry and wet periods, temperatures differ little, but the amount of precipitation and air humidity vary widely.
The rainy season lasts from May to October, during which time powerful tropical cyclones often occur. The north of the country is considered the driest region - about 250 mm of precipitation falls here per year. The greatest amount of precipitation is observed in the southern regions - up to 1,500 mm, and about 300-400 mm per month can fall during the summer wet season.
The water temperature on the Pacific coast in the summer rises to +27 degrees, and on average for the year it is + 25 degrees. The waters of the Caribbean Sea are slightly warmer - in the summer the water temperature here is +29 degrees.
Population
60% of Mexico's population are mestizos, 14% are Indians, 9% are white. In addition, about 150,000 foreigners live in the country. 74% - urban population.
Language
Official language: Spanish
Local ethnic groups speak their native languages (Nahuatl, Mayan, Otomi, Zapoteca, etc.). English is widely spoken.
Religion
Among believers, 89.7% are Catholics, 4.9% are Protestants, the rest are Jews, Bahais and adherents of local cults.
Political structure
The United Mexican States is a federal republic. The head of state and government is the president. The legislative body is a bicameral parliament, which consists of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies.
Administrative division
Mexico is administratively divided into 31 states (Spanish: estados) and one federal district (Spanish: Distrito Federal), collectively called federal entities (Spanish: Entidades federativas). States are divided into municipalities (municipios), the number of which, depending on the population and size of the state, can vary from a few to hundreds.
Each state has its own constitution and a governor, who is elected by direct universal suffrage.
The Federal District is a special political entity that includes the central part of the metropolitan metropolis of Mexico City. Since 1997, residents of the capital have elected the head of the district government, who has fewer rights than state governors.
Currency
The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso. But all tourists come with dollars; they can be used to pay in all tourist areas of the country.
Customs regulations
The import and export of foreign currency is not limited (declaration is required), national currency - up to the equivalent of $10 thousand.
Persons over 18 years of age are allowed duty-free import of up to 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars, or 250 g of tobacco; up to 3 liters of spirits or wine; a reasonable amount of perfume, 1 video camera, 1 photo camera and 12 films (video cassettes) for them, as well as gifts and other goods worth no more than $300. Additional goods valued at $500 or less may also be imported duty-free, but will need to be proven to be non-commercial.
When entering Mexico, you must fill out a customs declaration, which must list all valuable items that are imported into the country.
The import of fruits, vegetables and products made from them, plants, cuttings and plant seeds (the latter are permitted for import only on the basis of a special license from the Ministry of Agriculture), soil, flowers, fresh meat and meat products (the import of canned meat, with the exception of pork, is permitted) is prohibited. , medications without documentary evidence of the need for their use (a prescription or medical card is required), psychotropic substances and pornographic publications.
The import of firearms and ammunition is only permitted on the basis of a permit obtained from the Secretariat of National Security (Secretaria de la Defensa Nacional). The penalties for importing drugs are very strict - violators are punishable by up to 25 years in prison and high fines.
Pets must have an international veterinary certificate issued more than 5 days before crossing the border; cats and dogs must have an additional certificate of vaccination against rabies.
The export of archaeological valuables, antiques, precious metals, rare animals and birds, as well as their skins and stuffed animals is prohibited. Export of tobacco and alcohol products is free.
All passengers flying out of the country on international flights are charged a fee of $18-$29 depending on the airport. Children under 2 years of age, transit passengers and diplomats are exempt from paying the fee.
Transport
You can fly to Mexico with one or two transfers, and the travel time is about 17 hours. The domestic airline network is well developed, especially between major cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Acapulco and Cancun.
You can also travel within the country by bus. There are luxury and middle class buses. The cost of travel in them differs quite significantly. The railway network is also developed, but the quality of travel is quite poor.
There are buses and minibuses running within cities. Mexico City has a metro that is open on weekdays and Sundays from 5 a.m. to 0:30 a.m. and on Saturdays until 1:30 a.m. In addition, you can use taxi services. It is best to call a taxi from the hotel; these taxis are equipped with meters.
To rent a car you must have a credit card with you
The shops
The current law when shopping in Mexico is "quality at buyer's risk," which makes many tourists wary of shady sellers. Always keep this principle in your head. In Mexico you can buy anything related to frogs, from figurines in various poses and costumes to high-quality silverware. Handicrafts, clothing and folk traditions vary by region, but pottery, handwoven fabrics, hammocks and baskets are always the best buys for souvenirs from Mexico. Don't ignore the very popular hand-painted wooden animal figures called alebrijes. These figurines usually feature motifs from Mexican myths.
Products made from copper, onyx, straw and leather are also in high demand, but pay close attention to quality unless quality is your main concern. High-grade silver must have a purity of at least "925" (according to the law), but you have no way of knowing whether ordinary iron is plated with silver. Learn the differences between synthetic colors (bright) and natural colors (quieter) when shopping for wool blankets. It's fun to choose and buy local toys, but remember that they do not meet safety regulations and check for any loose parts or sharp edges, especially if the toys are intended as gifts for children. High quality musical instruments (especially stringed or percussion instruments) can also be found here.
Be careful when purchasing name brand products, especially if the prices are too low, some may be made without the manufacturer's license. If this does occur, the products may be confiscated at customs. Turtle shell products, live turtles, alligators and jaguar leather products will also be confiscated upon arrival in many countries. Souvenirs made from quetzal bird feathers or sea turtles are illegal in Mexico, as are any archaeological artifacts. In addition to fines, you can also receive a serious prison sentence.
Store opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 20:00. Some shops close for a couple of hours during the day - for lunch.
Banking hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 13:30. Some branches in big cities may be open on Saturday, and during the week - until 17:00.
National characteristics of Mexico
Mexicans are kind, cheerful and cheerful, they love to talk and listen to gossip. They are hospitable towards foreigners, although they are wary of the American style of communication and the Spaniards. They are ardent patriots, they love holidays very much and organize them on a variety of occasions.
Good nature in communication is manifested at least in the fact that the inhabitants of Mexico are accustomed to accompany almost any conversation with a broad smile. It is also customary (especially in provincial areas) to greet everyone, even strangers, for example, when entering public transport.
Mexico has true freedom of speech. And residents communicate with each other without any special restrictions. However, Mexicans are very polite with strangers or visitors and follow all the rules of etiquette.
Most of the country's residents are very clean. It is believed that clothes should be neat, new and always clean. It is customary to wear a tie to business meetings.
Abortion is either prohibited or highly discouraged here. Therefore, in many families, three or more children are the norm. Children are treated specially here; they are pampered in every possible way and allowed a lot. In addition, in Mexico there is a cult of motherhood; a mother is a sacred concept for a Mexican. Mother's Day is widely celebrated on May 10th.
In general, a Mexican woman does not have equal status with a man. Thus, there are few women in business, although there is a tendency for their influence to increase. The head of the family is also a man.
In their free time, Mexicans go to the cinema, take their children to the circus, or play golf, football, horse riding, hunting, diving, etc. Only tourist centers are famous for their fun nightlife.
It is usually not customary to boast about your material wealth, but a Mexican car must be expensive. In business, Mexicans value punctuality, but in informal communication time is not of great importance.
Behavior rules
When meeting people, an intermediary in the form of a mutual friend is most often used. You should introduce yourself in detail, followed by a hug. Business cards are widely used. When addressing people, titles (senor) and the polite pronoun “you” are often used. If communication between companions occurs on a first-name basis, then those accompanying them talk to each other in the same way.
There are two types of addresses to women: señora - “married woman” and senorita - “girl”. If a woman's marital status is unknown, it would be more polite to address her as senorita. A woman has the right to expect that the door will be opened for her, a cigarette will be lit, etc., this is quite natural.
The greeting is made in the form of a handshake or a kiss on the cheek. When greeting a woman in informal communication, they do both at the same time. Communication is open, with frequent pats on the back, etc.
In Mexico, giving generous compliments is considered a common courtesy, and discourteous behavior can cause great offense. Gratitude is also usually expressed at length and excessively. Mexicans do not like sharp denials or refusals.
When talking (both face-to-face and over the phone), Mexicans are supposed to discuss extraneous topics for a long time before moving on to the main thing.
Residents of the country consume alcoholic beverages very moderately, especially in cities. It is undesirable to appear drunk in a public place. However, smoking is usually not limited in any way.
When visiting, you need to remember that in Mexican houses they don’t take off their shoes, regardless of the weather outside. Gifts are frequent, and quite rich ones, but not at the first meeting. Flowers as a gift are always approved, but the bouquet must be large, at least a dozen flowers.
At the table, Mexicans behave in a very civilized manner and observe etiquette requirements. The right to taste wine is granted to the guest. It is better to say toasts in Spanish, this will endear the hosts to the guest. If food such as tortillas or tortillas are eaten with the hands, attempting to use cutlery in this case will be regarded as snobbery.
Attractions
Mexico is one of the states on whose territory the most ancient civilizations of America existed - the Mayans and Aztecs. The country has preserved the remains of ancient Mayan and Aztec cities with pyramids, temples, stone fortifications, residential buildings, among which stand out: the Aztec pyramid of Tenayuca; temples of Mayor, Teopansolco; the famous Stone of the Sun, a calendar in the form of a stone circle with a diameter of 3.6 m and weighing 24 tons, the Vise Stone. Interesting things to see in Mexico City: the ancient city center with the remains of royal Aztec buildings; cathedral (16th-17th centuries); the ancient Basilica of Gua Dalupe; churches de la Profesa, San Agustin, San Lazaro, San Juan de Dios (17th-18th centuries); Mint; Palace de los Virreyes (1696-1703); Square of Three Cultures. Among the huge number of museums, the most notable are: the National Anthropological Museum, the Anauocalli Museum, Quicuilco, the Pinacoteca San Diego, the Virreinato Museum, the Museum of Cultures, the Palace of Fine Arts, the Museum of Modern Art, and the National Historical Museum. The famous resort of Acapulco is famous for its beautiful
mi beaches, luxury hotels and casinos.
The capital has 3 large and many small markets. The streets are noisy. There are a lot of cars, a lot of music everywhere - in restaurants, bars, cafes. In the evenings, dozens of groups of Mariachis musicians perform on the streets for a few pesetas. Once or twice a week, the city hosts concerts of folk music and folk dances; specifically Mexican spectacles include competitions of horsemen - “charros”, who compete in the ability to ride horses, wield a lasso, etc. Bullfights are very popular. The Mexicans borrowed the art of growing flowers and vegetables on water from their ancestors, the Aztecs.
Tips
The tip is 10% of the amount indicated on the bill. It is also common to give porters and drivers about 1-2 US dollars.
Official holidays
January 1 - New Year
February 5 - Constitution Day
February 24 - National Flag Day
March 21 - Benito Juarez Day
March-April - Easter
April 30 - Children's Day
May 1 - Labor Day
September 16 - Independence Day
October 12 - America's Discovery Day
November 20 - Revolution Day
December 12 - Day of the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe
December 25 - Christmas
Mexico hosts many festivals throughout the year. A jazz festival is held in winter, and a colorful carnival takes place in late February - early March. On the Day of the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe, the "Señora de Guadalupe" festival is held, and on November 2, the "Day of the Dead" holiday is celebrated, when the souls of the dead return to earth. The most colorful celebrations of the "Day of the Dead" take place in the city of Patzcuaro.
Bienvenidos a M?xico!- Welcome to Mexico!
United States.
Capital: Mexico City.
Area: 1,964,375 sq. km.
Population: 114,975,406 people.
Official language: Spanish.
Official currency: pesos.
Mexico is a country of two oceans. From the west, its shores are washed by the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California that belongs to it, and from the east - the Atlantic Ocean with the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. The largest peninsula of Mexico is Yucatan. When Columbus landed on its shores, he asked the Indians: “Where am I?”, to which they replied: “Yucatan,” which means “We don’t understand you...”
The Mexican States are located in the “two Americas” - North and Latin. Latin America is a large region that includes all American states located south of the United States.
In rural areas, about 50 native languages of Mexicans have been preserved, but only one national language is Spanish. Remember: Mexico is the most Spanish-speaking country in the world. More people speak Spanish here than in Spain itself!
Mexico is rich in oil. Most of it is mined on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. There are deposits of gas, iron ore and copper in this country. The Mexican aborigines also knew that their lands were rich in gold and silver, and they mined them. The Spanish conquerors made Mexico the main supplier of silver to Europe. It is still mined today. Silver is used to make jewelry that is sold throughout the country.
The indigenous people of Mexico are Indians. This is what Columbus called the aborigines, who thought he had sailed to India. So they bear the name not of their homeland, but of a land located thousands of kilometers away...
More than a dozen Indian tribes lived (and still live!) on Mexican soil. But the two most “popular” and important for history are the Mayans and the Aztecs.
The Mayans lived in the Yucatan Peninsula and southern Mexico. This was before our era. They were good at arithmetic and were the first to use the number zero. She was drawn in the form of an empty snail shell. To count, the barefoot Mayans used not only their fingers, but also their toes.
Chichen Itza is the main Mayan city. It is called the city of pyramids. Don't be surprised, they are not only in Egypt. The Mayans were good architects and astronomers, and they also perfectly combined these two skills. One of the main pyramids of Chichen Itza is the Temple of Kukulkan. When the sun shines on it on the days of the equinox (March 21 and September 23), shadows in the form of triangles fall from the walls. Moreover, they are located in such a way that they form the body of a snake 37 m long, “creeping” with the movement of the Sun towards its own head.
The Mayans have gained particular “fame” these days from rumors that they “promised” the end of the world. Like, it’s written in their calendar. But apparently not all of you imagine it. You can't tear out the leaves from it! The Mayan calendar is a system of cycles. We lived in the Age of the Fifth Sun, which ended on December 21
2012 The Mayans generally considered such days as a holiday.
The Mayans loved sports. They even built stadiums for this (like our football stadiums). What they played is reminiscent of basketball. The ball was made from a piece of rubber. He weighed more than 4 kg. The piquancy of the game was that at the end one of the teams could be sacrificed. And not the loser, but the winners...
There are almost no rivers in Yucatan. But there are other sources of fresh water - cenotes. These are lakes-wells. The Mayans didn't drink from them! This could not be done, because a cenote is a door to the dungeon. And it is sacred - deities live there. To prevent them from getting angry, they threw jewelry and even people into the cenotes. Today, some of the well lakes are used for diving.
After the 9th century, one of the most advanced civilizations in the history of the planet disappeared. It's difficult to say why this happened. Perhaps the reason is wars, or maybe drought is to blame?..
The Aztec Empire extended from the Pacific to the Atlantic. The Aztecs are “younger” than the Mayans. They appeared on the lands of Mexico in the 14th century (perhaps they came from the north). The natives were not very happy about the guests. Therefore, they decided to “take revenge” and gave them an island on Lake Texcoco, where the snakes lived. But it was not there! The Aztecs were happy because snakes became their food! The aliens surrounded everything around with dams and built the city of Tenochtitlan. Everything was fine, but only in the middle of the 16th century did European colonialists appear who put an end to the Aztec empire and destroyed their city. Mexico City, the current capital of Mexico, was built in its place.
Near Mexico City is the abandoned city of Teotihuacan. It is the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. This city is associated with the Aztec civilization, but in fact it was built before their arrival. Teotihuacan is home to the Pyramid of the Sun, the third largest in the world after the Egyptian Pyramid of Cheops and the Mexican Pyramid of Cholul.
The Mayans and Aztecs did not disappear completely. Their descendants grow corn under the same sultry tropical sun as a thousand years ago, and rest in the shadow of the grandiose ruins of their past, along which tourists run in anticipation of the end of the world...
Mexico City
The most dangerous, extreme, impoverished, terrible - what the capital of Mexico has never heard about itself - the city of Mexico. But those who have seen him live will say that he is unique.
For us, the words “Mexico” and “Mexico City” are written differently, but if you write them in Spanish, it will turn out the same - M?xico. Mexicans simply call their capital De Eph. The city is growing and is constantly “taking over” nearby villages and towns. Due to the fact that it consists of many “absorbed” pieces, it is called not just the capital, but the federal district, or Distrito Federal (abbreviated as De Ef).
Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world. About 20 million people live there, that is, every fifth resident of Mexico. And this is not the limit. The city's population is growing. Poor peasants move there in search of a better life. The outskirts of the city are increasingly becoming overgrown with slums.
The city is so huge that a detailed map of it takes up half a suitcase. At the same time, the central square of the Zocalo (one of the largest in the world) is the size of a matchbox. Not far from the square there are signs with airplanes. It turns out that right in the center of giant Mexico City there is... an airport! When the plane lands, it flies over the city for an hour. It seems that it is about to land on the roof of some house...
The city of Mexico was built on the site of the drained Lake Texcoco. Mexico City is at the bottom of a large lake, which causes a lot of problems.
During the season when there is no rain, the city is covered in dust, and water is pumped and supplied through pipes from afar. But when the rains start, Mexico City floods. Then, with the help of these same pumps, the city is saved from excess water.
The landmark of Mexico City is Chapultepec Castle, which is one of the ten most beautiful castles in the world. At first it was the residence of the royal family, then an observatory and a military academy. Now the castle is a historical museum.
Mexico City is located at an altitude of 2240 m above sea level. It is located in a valley surrounded by a ring of mountains and volcanoes. Therefore, the capital of Mexico is a city of temperature contrasts. Waking up in the morning under three blankets and putting on boots and a hat, by lunchtime you can safely walk around in a T-shirt and eat ice cream.
The people of Mexico City are devout Catholics. There are many Catholic churches in the city. The most famous is the Basilica of Mary of Guadalupe, built in honor of the patroness of the people of Mexico. There is also a cathedral in the city - the largest in Latin America.
People living in the capital are mostly poor. Each of them earns as best they can. One of the popular professions is a shoe shiner, or bolero. A simple Mexican may have a stain on his shirt, but his shoes or boots should definitely sparkle like a new peso.
If you look at the city from above, the houses in it will seem like multi-colored boxes: pink, blue, green. The recesses on the facades of the houses are occupied by figures of saints, and all the beauty is hidden in the courtyards. They are planted with various tropical plants.
In the center of Mexico City there is a whole “skyscraper avenue” - Paseo de la Reforma, spacious, with business centers. The Torre skyscraper is also located here - the tallest in Latin America.
Mexico City leads among the world's cities in the number of museums. There are 110 of them here! On this occasion, Mexicans often joke that it is unlikely that any of them will list at least 10.
