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Information about Mexico

Before visiting Mexico we put together this information guide which should help you get a better idea about the country before visiting.

General Information about Mexico

  • Official Name: Estados Unidos Mexicanos
  • Form of Government: Federation of states, federal democratic republic
  • Capital: Mexico City
  • Political System: Federal Republic, divided into 31 states and a Federal District.
  • Land Area: 1.964.375 km²
  • Borders: The Mexican Republic has borders with the United States, Guatemala and Belize.
  • Population Size: 110 million inhabitants
  • Languages: Spanish, although there are 30 indigenous languages and 22 recognized dialects.
  • Ethnic groups: 77% of the population is mestizo, 13% indigenous and 9% of European descent.
  • Religion: 96% Roman Catholic
  • Currency: Mexican Peso ($)
  • Time Zone: UTC 6 to UTC 8, depending on the area of the country

Cost of Living

The following is a brief overview on prices in Mexico for food and lodging:

  • Economical meal: from 4 US $
  • Standard restaurant: from 8 to 15 US $
  • Youth hostel or cheap hotel: 10 to 20 US $
  • Middle-range hotel: from 25 US $

You'll find all kinds of accommodation, from breathtaking luxury hotels, 5 stars to 1 star hotels, campgrounds, youth hostels and guest houses. Depending on the category they are required to meet all kinds of requirements.

In some national parks is possible to camp at night at no cost, although it is always advisable to ask permission to the relevant authorities because in some places is only allowed to camp for several hours and during the day.

Traveler's Checks

To avoid the commissions it is advisable to use traveler's checks in euros or dollars.

Tipping

Generally 15% of the total value of the bill, especially if the service was excellent.

Cuisine

Mexican food is one of the richest in the world and is recognized throughout the world for it's exquisite taste. Among the main ingredients of Mexcan food are corn, tomato, lime juice and different variations of meat. Also important is fruit, especially papayas, pineapples, mangoes and other tropical fruits. Mexican food is not per se very spicy, but many dishes taste best when seasoned with an exotic chili sauce. Make sure you also try the famous guacamole, made from avocados, onions and cilantro, accompanied by tortillas.

Imported alcoholic beverages are expensive and therefore trying the national drinks is recommended. Among them we can emphasize the tequila, rum and gin. Mexico has also very tasty beer and is the second largest exporter of beer.

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