Mexico is pinned on the map

Mexico

Mexico: Where History, Culture, and Tacos Unite

Mexico—the land of vibrant colors, ancient civilizations, spicy food, and endless coastlines. Whether you’re chasing Mayan ruins, lounging on white-sand beaches, or devouring street tacos with a cold margarita in hand, Mexico is a treasure trove of experiences that will keep you coming back for more. Let’s unpack everything this fabulous country has to offer!

How to Reach Mexico

Aerial view of Independence Monument in Mexico city, Mexico

Getting to Mexico is as easy as pie—just the spicy kind. Major international airports like Mexico City International Airport (MEX), Cancún International Airport (CUN), and Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) are well-connected to most parts of the world. From the U.S. and Canada, flights are a breeze and often pretty affordable. European travelers can also find direct flights, with a layover in the U.S. or connecting through big European hubs like Madrid.

Once you’re in the country, Mexico’s domestic airlines—like Aeroméxico, VivaAerobus, and Volaris—can whisk you away to any of its stunning corners, from the beaches to the highlands. You’ll be saying “hola” to adventure in no time!

Currency

Mexico’s official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), and trust me, you’ll want plenty of them because there’s so much to see, do, and, of course, eat! While larger tourist areas will happily accept U.S. dollars, you’ll get better value paying in pesos. Cash is king in local markets and street stalls, but credit cards are widely accepted in bigger cities and resorts.

Popular Destinations

With Mexico being such a diverse country, deciding where to go might feel like picking your favorite taco topping—impossible! To make things easier, here are some top destinations that should definitely be on your itinerary:

Mexico City

The beating heart of the country, Mexico City is an electric blend of ancient history and modern flair. Start with a visit to the Zócalo, the city’s massive central square, and check out the awe-inspiring Metropolitan Cathedral and Templo Mayor, a glimpse into Mexico’s Aztec past.

Culture buffs will love the Frida Kahlo Museum and Chapultepec Park, home to the grand Chapultepec Castle and several museums. Don’t forget to grab some street food while exploring—nothing says “I’m in Mexico City” like a piping-hot taco al pastor!

Cancún & The Riviera Maya

Beautiful shot of Cancun Beach during Summer

Cancún isn’t just for spring breakers! With its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and all-inclusive resorts, it’s a paradise for sun-seekers. Just south of Cancún is the Riviera Maya, home to the laid-back towns of Playa del Carmen and Tulum, where you can explore ancient Mayan ruins perched right on the beach.

For a touch of adventure, dive into one of the region’s cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water—or snorkel the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world.

Oaxaca

This city is a vibrant hub of indigenous culture, colonial charm, and world-renowned cuisine (seriously, foodies—Oaxaca is heaven!). Wander through its colorful streets, visit the Church of Santo Domingo, and head to the nearby Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec city that dates back thousands of years.

Make sure to sample Oaxaca’s famous mole—a rich, complex sauce that’s a local delicacy. Don’t worry, they have more than seven different types, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to taste them all!

Baja California

Baja California is the wild, rugged west of Mexico. Head to Cabo San Lucas for luxury resorts, lively nightlife, and water activities like whale watching and diving. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, drive up the peninsula to La Paz, a charming seaside town that offers a quieter slice of Mexican life, with stunning beaches and nearby islands perfect for day trips.

Puerto Vallarta

If you’re after a relaxed beach vibe with an artsy twist, Puerto Vallarta is your spot. With its cobblestone streets, stunning coastline, and thriving art scene, this Pacific gem is perfect for those who want a laid-back vacation. Spend your days lounging on the beach, taking a boat trip to the nearby Marieta Islands, or strolling the Malecón boardwalk, which is lined with art installations and cute cafes.

Chichen Itza

Pyramid of Chichen Itza in Mexico

No trip to Mexico is complete without paying homage to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza. This ancient Mayan city is most famous for its El Castillo pyramid, but the site is home to several other impressive structures like the Temple of the Warriors and the Great Ball Court. Arrive early to beat the crowds and bask in the wonder of this ancient civilization.

Best Time to Visit

Mexico’s climate varies depending on where you go, but in general, the best time to visit is during the dry season (November to April). You’ll get warm temperatures without the heavy rains, making it ideal for beach vacations, city tours, and exploring archaeological sites.

  • December to February is peak season in coastal areas, so expect higher prices but also perfect beach weather.
  • March to May is great for cities like Mexico City and Oaxaca, where the temperatures are mild, and the streets are vibrant with festivals.
  • June to October is the rainy season, but don’t rule it out! The rains usually come in the afternoon, leaving you plenty of time to explore in the morning.

For whale watching, plan a trip to Baja California between January and March—this is when the magnificent gray whales migrate to the area.

Food

Let’s talk about one of the best parts of Mexico—the food! Mexican cuisine is a UNESCO-recognized cultural treasure, and once you’ve tasted the flavors, you’ll understand why. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Tacos: Yes, you’ve had tacos, but not like this! Try tacos al pastor (spit-grilled pork), tacos de pescado (fish tacos), or tacos de barbacoa (slow-cooked beef).
  • Mole: A rich, complex sauce made with chocolate, spices, and chilies, typically served over chicken. The most famous comes from Oaxaca, but each region has its own twist.
  • Chiles en Nogada: A patriotic dish of stuffed poblano peppers topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds.
  • Tamales: Steamed corn dough filled with meats, cheese, or sweet fillings, wrapped in corn husks. They’re a breakfast staple!
  • Elote: Grilled corn on the cob, slathered in mayonnaise, chili powder, lime juice, and cheese. A street food favorite.
  • Pozole: A hearty soup made with hominy corn and meat (usually pork or chicken), topped with lettuce, radishes, and lime.

And of course, you can’t forget tequila and mezcal—both hailing from Mexico’s agave plants. Sipping mezcal while watching a Mexican sunset? Yes, please!

Mexican Green enchiladas with guacamole and sauces on a colorful table

Culture

Mexico is a land steeped in rich culture, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. The Aztecs, Maya, and Zapotecs left behind stunning architectural and cultural legacies, from the pyramids of Chichen Itza to the ruins of Teotihuacan. Today, these indigenous cultures still thrive, especially in areas like Oaxaca and Chiapas, where traditional clothing, art, and food remain integral to everyday life.

Mexico is also a country that knows how to party! Festivals like Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in early November are famous worldwide for their colorful altars, sugar skulls, and parades that celebrate the lives of the deceased in a uniquely joyous way. The Carnival celebrations in Veracruz and Mazatlán bring out vibrant costumes, music, and dance, while the Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca honors indigenous traditions with stunning displays of regional dress, dance, and song.

And let’s not forget the art! From the murals of Diego Rivera to the surrealist paintings of Frida Kahlo, Mexico has a long-standing love affair with the arts. You’ll find galleries, murals, and street art at every corner, reflecting both the country’s history and its contemporary pulse.

Final Thoughts

Mexico is more than just a vacation destination—it’s an experience that’ll stay with you long after your tan fades. Whether you’re soaking up the history, diving into the cuisine, or losing yourself in the natural beauty, Mexico promises to surprise and delight at every turn. The people are warm, the colors are vibrant, and the adventures are endless.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this rich and exciting country—because in Mexico, there’s always another adventure waiting around the corner!