If you have an idea about countries and their culture or history; when you hear the word ‘Mexico’, something related to Spanish origin should be one of the first few things that come to mind. If you have seen television shows like ‘Money Heist, Elite, Jane the Virgin, or other Spanish movies, you will pick up one or two things about Spanish history and culture. Whatever you learn there may leave you intrigued and may make you want to know more about things related to Spanish-speaking countries.
Apart from Spain in Europe, one of the famous Spanish-speaking countries is Mexico. This country located in North America has diverse people, cultures, and languages. The history of the country plays a huge role in what it is today. The country has many things unique to itself such as the food, music, telenovelas, festivities, etc. It is also referred to as Latin America and most of its population are Catholics. If you are visiting Mexico soon, here are some of their culture and/or traditions you might want to know beforehand.
Culture
Some of the cultural origins can be dated back to the indigenous origin (the Aztec, Maya). Others originated from the Spanish heritage. Although many Mexican things have local or regional origins.
Destinations
Different cities offer many tourist sights to visitors. Mexico borders the Caribbean Sea on one end so; there is an abundance of beaches in the country. Cancun is one of these cities to visit. There are restaurants, hotels, parks, shops, nightclubs, etc. accessible to everyone here. It is better to be mobile when visiting a new place. There are van rentals in Cancun where you can get any vehicle of your choice to rent. You can check van rental Cancun to book one at any time.
Cuisine
Every country worldwide has its unique food and Mexican food is not excluded. Many foods originate from here and are famous worldwide. Food such as avocado, chocolate, salsa, burritos, lasagna, pizza, tortillas, guacamole, etc. Their cuisine is very diverse, spicy, colorful, and tasteful. Not to mention the fact that varieties of chocolates are included in almost everything from drinks to soaps. There are many restaurants all over the country in case you decide to try the food.
Drinks
Mexicans are famous for their special method of making beverages (soda) and Tequila. Because of their prosperous beverage industry, they export tequila and other drinks worldwide, especially to the U.S. Unlike other places where people drink Tequila with salt, in Mexico, it is drunk with Sangrita made from lime, orange juice, or chili. Different flavors of tequila are produced. Therefore, if you visit, you should try one of these drinks out.
Art
Everything art-related found in the country involves color. The paintings speak volumes about life as it captures different emotions and feelings. They are also things related to folk art such as pottery, embroidery, mosaics, hand weaving, etc. There are also museums or galleries that one can visit to explore the different colorful and artistic aspects of Mexican history and lifestyle.
Music
Mariachi music is a huge part of the culture. It involves a group of musicians playing five-stringed guitar and trumpets whilst wearing the costume – la Cucaracha
Language
Spanish is the most spoken language here but another minority of the population speaks other indigenous languages e.g. Mayan.
Faith
As said earlier, the vast majority of Mexicans are Catholics. They take their religious rituals and festivals very seriously. With the holy week the highlight and the feast day of their patron Saint – Our Lady of Guadalupe next. Other events like Christmas, Easter, the day of the dead, feast of saints, etc. On each occasion, they celebrate with food, music, and dance with everyone else. The churches and cathedrals in its cities are a remarkable sight. All beautiful within and out. You can rent a car to tour this place and other sights. After Vatican City, this country is the second most famous catholic sanctuary.
Celebrations
Corroborating the above point, Mexicans take pride in their holidays and celebrating feasts. Examples are the day of the dead, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Independence Day, etc. Other holidays or traditions you can find here. On such occasions, families can use a 12-passenger van rental to move from place to place.
Values
Another thing that Mexicans hold to their heart is family. Parents and grandparents are held in high regard. Celebrations and events are held together as a family no matter how small it is. One of the popular celebrations in the family is a young girl’s 15th year birthday. Also known as ‘quinceañera’ (the transition from being a child to becoming a woman). On this occasion, they hold a series of events with families and friends present. Involves the holy mass, the celebrant dressed in a beautiful dress, and a party with bridesmaids and chamberlains present.
Apart from the celebrations and all, they always receive visitors with open arms. It is a part of their culture to welcome and treat everyone as family. Therefore, if you are a stranger visiting, rest assured you would be highly welcome.
