Mexico - Amazing beauty, ancient cultures, warm hospitality
Mexico
Mexicans have a variety of ancestory, the two main ones being Mestizos or Indigenous. Mestizos are a mixture of usually Spanish and Indian, although other Europeans and African slaves come into the equation. Indigenous descendants are of Mexico's pre-hispanic inhabitants, but the majority of modern day Mexicans are Mestizos.
Ruins are abundant in this diverse country, and one of the well-known ancient civilisations in Mexico is the Aztecs. The Aztecs date back to their beginnings in the 14th Century, and many aspects of their culture are drawn from earlier Mexican civilisations. Even in modern day Mexican art now, it is possible to see strong influences from the Aztecs in regards to colours and designs in the numerous murals and art galleries throughout Mexico.
| Facts & Figures | |
|---|---|
| Official Name: | United Mexican States |
| Population: | 102,026,000 |
| Largest Cities: | Mexico City |
| Languages: | Spanish, local indian dialects |
| Official Currency: | Mexican Peso |
| Religions: | Catholic, others |
| Land Area: | 1,908,690 sq km (736.945 sq miles) |
| Highest Point: | Volcan Pico de Orizaba (5,700 meters) |
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Mexico City, the capital of the Republic of Mexico, is nestled in a highland valley, and spreads out over 200 kilometres. Mexico is a blend of many cultures and landscapes - you can spend time trekking amongst the snow-capped volcanoes, and in a short time arrive at a bustling beach resort with ancient ruins nearby. This is a country for the person looking for a destination with everything - beaches, ancient Indian culture and music, a diverse history of the Indians and the Spanish, interesting food and spectacular ruins.
Spontaneous live music may start up anywhere, at any time. The music of the Mariachi's is perhaps the most well known traditional Mexican music. It is common to find a band of Mariachi's busking in popular tourist areas, especially the Mariachi Plaza in Mexico City where you can see and listen to a wide range of Mariachi's playing, from young children to grandpas!
Families and friends are very important to the Mexicans, as with most Latinos. Any excuse for a fiesta (party) will result in a gathering of friends and family dancing until the wee hours of the morning. Music and an abundance of food are the ingredients for any fiesta!
Climate
Varies from tropical to desert
Currency
The Mexican Peso is the official currency.