Diversity is the buzzword when it comes to Mexico. Visitors can have almost any kind of holiday, whether seeking wildlife or nightlife, gourmet cuisine or golden sands. Located in North America, Mexico is bordered by the United States to its north, and to the south by Guatemala and Belize. It also shares over 9,330 miles of coastline between the Caribbean Sea, the Pacific, and, of course, the Gulf of Mexico.
One of the most populous countries in the world, Mexico is home to an estimated 112 million people, its capital is Mexico City. Divided up into six diverse regions, the country comprises Baja California, Northern Mexico, The Bajio, Central Mexico, Pacific Coast and the Yucatan Peninsula. Its climate varies between tropical and temperate, and there more UNESCO World Heritage Sites here than anywhere else in the Americas. Mexico suits almost any spending scope, with cheap accommodation and ready transport available in most areas. A formidable economic power, Mexico is known for its unique culture, rich history, and for the friendliness of its people, all of which combine to make it the seventh most popular destination with foreigners in the world.
Mexico City is one of the world’s largest urbanizations, sprawling its 8.8 million people across 16 vastly distinct districts. Staying here, as in most busy cities, the focus will always remain with culture and history rather than relaxation, but its diverse, colourful cityscape promises to keep even the most demanding visitors occupied. Grasshopper Park is the ideal place to get a first snapshot of the city’s range of attractions. Ride one of the pulse-hammering rollercoasters, visit its 18th century hilltop castle and let your jaw graze the floor at opulence fit to challenge that of the Louvre or head directly to the National Museum of Anthropology, a world class institution which welcomes its visitors with a folk dance display in the surrounding parkland! Just 30 miles northeast of the city are the Pyramids of Teotihuacán. Dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries AD, they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Mexico is also renowned for its incredible beaches. Whether it’s the beautiful bay of Acapulco, or the lagoons of the Maya Riviera there’s plenty to amuse travellers whether they seek water sports, sunbathing or an underwater landscape like no other.
For visitors who prefer to see the quieter, more rural charms of Mexico, there are companies who specialise in crafting unique village tours. Sierra Tarahumara, in Chihuahua, Chiapas, Nayarit and Oaxaca, are all great starting points for those who want to wander dusty backstreets and learn about the country’s smaller communities. One of Mexico’s most famous cultural festivals, the Day of the Dead celebration takes place at the beginning of November. Streets kindle with bright flowers and skeleton dolls, while relatives tend to graves of passed loved ones, and prepare their favourite foods. Another significant event is Mexican Independence Day. A great time to be in Mexico City, fiestas kindle on the eve of September 15th, then as the clock strikes 11 the president gives the Grito de delores, a cry of Independence. Then, a hurricane of confetti and streamers swarm the air to shouts of ‘Viva Mexico!’
Last Edit by Site Administrators on 7/05/2012 EDIT NOW >>
