Tourist centers of Mexico. The resort town of Playa del Carmen. The best resorts in Mexico on the Caribbean Sea

Mexico– the embodiment of an ideal tourist destination for a holiday: the country not only meets the most optimistic expectations of travelers, but also amazes with unexpected discoveries. The country, whose history dates back three thousand years, boasts an amazing cultural and spiritual heritage. Ancient cities of powerful civilizations (Aztecs, Olmecs and Mayans), a vibrant, original culture that united the traditions of numerous regions of the country, colonial treasures, magnificent beaches that are among the best beaches in the world, lush tropical nature, original, internationally popular cuisine - all this makes Mexico is every tourist's dream.
Holidays in Mexico It’s not just tequila, cheerful Mexicans in sombreros, human-sized cacti - this is just the tip of the iceberg that hides the real riches of the country: living Indian cultures, unique monuments architecture, natural wonders and a special atmosphere filled with ancient magic. Take part in a pagan mass, learn one of the beautiful Indian legends, climb to the top of the pyramid, see with your own eyes the miracle of the New World Chichen Itza, dive into the underwater world of the second largest barrier reef in the world, stroll through the most crowded city on the planet Mexico City - to explore Mexico it will take more than one trip, and that's what we call true relaxation in Mexico.

Capital: Mexico City.
Language: Spanish.
Population: OK. 109 million people
Political system: federal republic.
Territory: 1,972,550 km2.
Religion: Catholicism.
Highest point: volcano Pico de Orizaba (5700 m).

Voltage
110 W
Flat sockets

Types of tourism and recreation in Mexico

• historical excursions
• beach holiday in mexico
• diving (Cozumel Island, Marietas Islands near Puerto Vallarta)
• caving
• swimming in a cenote
• descent into caves on ropes (Yucatan Peninsula)
• mystical purification ceremonies in Mayan traditions
• ecotourism (boat trips in the mangroves on the Riviera Maya, Xcaret Ecopark, hiking in the Sierra Madre mountains, etc.)
• folklore evenings
• visiting tequila factories
• nightclubs in Cancun, Acapulco, Playa del Carmen

Weather in Mexico

Currency

Take with you

Shopping in Mexico

Mexico resorts have recently attracted more and more travelers from different parts of the world. globe. Some are attracted by the opportunity to discover a never-before-seen beach holiday, others like getting to know the culture and traditions of an exotic country, and there are those who can’t wait to try the delights in person local cuisine, which, according to rumors, may well be considered a real paradise for gourmets.

However, this article will not only describe the best resorts in Mexico. The reader will receive a lot of useful information on how to make your vacation even more interesting and educational.

Section 1. Why Mexico?

First of all, it should be noted that this is actually an amazing country, characterized by contrast. Today, extreme poverty and luxury of large cities are closely intertwined here.

Ideas about this state are quite diverse. For some, this is a vacation spot with gorgeous beaches and villas, famous resorts, diving and windsurfing. Others are attracted by the beauty of the tropics and the opportunity to plunge into the history of ancient civilizations, see mysterious pyramids and other mysterious monuments.

According to tourism brochures, this destination offers its guests the best coastal areas that meet world standards. The country is known for its cultural heritage, tequila, sombreros and passionate TV series.

Mexico is the homeland of the Aztecs, Olmecs, Mayans and Zapotecs, who had a huge impact on history and left behind many secrets. Some of them still remain unexplained. Most scientists believe that the ancient civilization arose due to an alien presence. One of the anomalous places in Mexico is the “Zone of Silence,” which exists at the same latitude as the pyramids of Egypt and the Bermuda Triangle. Strange phenomena occur in this zone, radio equipment turns off and the clock stops.

But for some tourists, the popular resorts of Mexico are also associated with poverty and slums in the suburbs of large populated areas. This is another part of the state and unprepared travelers definitely shouldn’t go there.

As we can see, almost everyone can find something they like. The only inconvenience for tourists is the country’s remoteness from Europe and the duration of the flight with transfers. But all this is easily compensated by the impressions received during the trip.

Section 2. What hotels offer guests the best resorts in Mexico?

Tourism occupies an important place in the country's economy. The classification of hotels by level of service is controlled by the state itself. Although this primarily applies to modern hotel complexes.

However, you should be prepared for the fact that in Mexico there are many non-standard hotels located in ancient estates or palaces. Their owners, however, offer comfortable rooms with modern equipment.

If you have decided for yourself the answer to the question of which resort in Mexico to choose, then it’s time to choose a suitable hotel.

It is worth paying attention to the fact that the most budget accommodation option is accommodation in 1-2* hotels, where small rooms with modest decoration are provided. Such rooms, as a rule, do not have air conditioning, TV or comfortable furniture. Despite this, 2* hotels differ from 1* hotels. Many 2* hotels have swimming pools.

Hotels with a star rating higher than three are closer to the European category of service provision. When choosing a stopping place, read in advance the interior view of the apartment, the list of available services and reviews. In addition to traditional hotels, in the country you can find hotels with additional classifications - “grandtourist” and “special category”.

The first group includes expensive hotel complexes, located mainly in the resorts of Acapulco and Riviera Maya. The most expensive and elite in Mexico are the complexes marked with a “special category”, which offer their guests exclusive types of recreation.

Section 3. Let's taste the holiday

Resorts in Mexico, as a rule, are impossible to imagine without getting acquainted with local dishes.

In general, the country's cuisine is actually distinguished by its gastronomic diversity. However, one should also take into account the fact that each region has its own preferences in the choice of products and dishes.

Thus, in the northern part of the state, the main food of residents is beef and goat meat. The process of cooking meat is reminiscent of the American method (most often barbecue type). Central Mexico favors a variety of seasonings and dishes made from beans and corn. Meat is also included in the diet. Southern provinces are influenced by Caribbean cuisine, where they love spicy vegetables and chicken dishes. The closer to the coast, the more popular fish and seafood.

But over the centuries, unchanged components national cuisine What remains are chili peppers, corn tortillas and beans. And the most favorite delicacy for Mexicans is “canas asadas” - a piece of fried sugar cane. The strong drink tequila brought real fame to Mexico.

Mexican wines, made mainly using European technologies, are also in demand. Other popular drinks include horchata (made from rice flour), iced hibiscus tea and champurado hot chocolate. The south of the country is famous for its excellent coffee.

From all of the above we can conclude: a holiday in Mexico, whose resorts are now extremely popular, will also be interesting for those who like to eat tasty and satisfying food.

Section 4. Which holiday is right for you?

The resorts of Mexico, descriptions of which can be found in almost all the most popular tourist brochures in the world, are distinguished by their diversity. Although, according to vacationers, they can, in principle, be divided into two main categories.

So, the main resorts in Mexico are located in the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. The most famous of them:

• Acapulco;
• Riviera Maya (Cozumel Island and Playa del Carmen);
• Los Cabos;
• Puerto Vallarta.

It is worth paying attention to the fact that each of them is good and interesting in its own way. Besides beach holiday, these tourist destinations have their own characteristics.

For example, Acapulco is famous for its expensive hotels and monuments of Spanish colonization, night parties and discos, restaurants and water activities. Convenient beaches ideal for holidays with children.

To get acquainted with the history of the Mayan civilization, you should go to the Riviera Maya. This resort has famous luxury hotels and the best beaches.

Still, Mexico is amazing and unique. The resort of Cancun, for example, in addition to its amazing beaches, is also notable for its ancient sights. The island of Cozumel is known for its coral reefs, which attract divers.

Section 5. Luxury vacation in Cancun

The large resort city of Cancun is located on the Yucatan Peninsula. This is a real paradise for lovers of nightlife - restaurants, night bars, casinos, discos and incendiary afterparties.

For tourists there are golf and tennis courts, bicycle rentals and other entertainment. The most beautiful corner The resort is the Nichupte Lagoon, which separates the city from the hotel area. Here you can take yacht trips or spend time in a bar or restaurant. From their terraces you can see great view to the lagoon. In the north of Cancun there are ruins of ancient Mayan settlements.

Hotels offer lovers special programs for organizing wedding ceremonies, performed according to the internal laws of a state such as Mexico. This is why resorts on the Caribbean Sea are famous for their huge number of newlyweds. By the way, in order for this marriage to be recognized as valid, say, in America or Europe, it will simply need to be legalized in its home country.

Section 6. What awaits us in Acapulco?

The resorts of Mexico, reviews of visits to which are usually positive or even enthusiastic, are impossible to imagine without this locality.

Acapulco is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. It is not without reason that the city is considered the “night capital” of Mexico. It is a place of entertainment, casinos, bars and restaurants that comes alive as night falls. His fiery discos are known throughout Mexico. Famous DJs and artists from all over the world come here. In addition to entertaining shows, tourists can take excursion trips to historical attractions.

On the mountain is the Chapel of Peace Cathedral, built during the period of Spanish rule. Next to it stands a majestic cross, blessing sea travelers. In the 17th century San Diego fortress. located historical Museum, and you can get acquainted with objects of Indian culture at the Museum of Archeology. There is a water park in the Papagayo National Reserve. Taking a boat trip on a glass-bottomed boat to Roqueta Island, you can see the statue of the Holy Virgin of Guadalupe (the patroness of sailors) under the water.

Section 7. The miracle called Riviera Maya

Mexico can offer its guests many unforgettable places. It is not without reason that the resort cities of this country are extremely popular. Here you can find something to suit every taste and budget, as they say.

For example, from Cancun to Tulum stretch snow-white beaches Riviera Maya. The main settlements in this region are Playa del Carmen and the island of Cozumel. Mostly tourists from Europe vacation here.

It should be noted that these places are ideal for family holidays and diving. Free time can be devoted to sports games, SPA treatments or excursions. The resort town of Playa del Carmen, located in the center of the Riviera Maya, is popular among young people.

Mexico also attracts vacationers in this part with its beaches and coral reefs, the ruins of ancient Indian settlements (Chichen Itza, Ekbalam, Tulum), included in the UNESCO list. You should definitely visit the Shel-Ha nature reserve, famous for its unique karst lakes and stalactite dungeons.

In the ecological park Xcaret there is an aquarium museum, a turtle farm, butterfly and orchid parks, and an island of jaguars. Here you can frolic with dolphins, go scuba diving or swim along an underground river. Particularly striking are the flocks of pink flamingos that live in the bay near the fishing village of Rio Lagartos.

Recently open park Xplor invites visitors to experience extreme rafting along the warm rivers of the underground. The river leads to natural wells that served as a source of water for the Mayans. In addition, other adventures await you in the park: ziplining, jungle treks and walks along suspension bridges.

Section 8. Los Cabos - a place worth visiting

In fact, Mexico's resorts are diverse and unique. What to choose for your next vacation? Why not discover something new?

Between the cities of San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, the Los Cabos resort area stretches for almost 40 km. This relatively young resort is considered one of the most expensive. The climate of Los Cabos is different from other resorts in Mexico. Here it is drier, which creates favorable conditions for relaxation. Luxurious hotels surrounded by greenery, excellent sandy beaches and the sea are perfectly combined with the desert dunes.

Many hotels are part of global hotel chains with an all-inclusive system. Each of them differs in architecture and design. Golf courses, swimming pools, restaurants and bars are open to tourists, and various show programs are organized. From January to April, huge whales swim to the shores of Los Cabos, which can be observed right from the coast.

Section 9. Puerto Vallarta and Cozumel

On the shore itself large bay Banderas is located in the colonial city of Puerto Vallarta. You should pay attention to the fact that the most fashionable hotels in the resort are concentrated in the Marina Vaillarta area, south of the center.

You can find the most affordable accommodation options in the area of ​​New Vayarta. Some of the hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis. Ordinary life here proceeds calmly and measuredly; organizations provide for a siesta in the afternoon. But with the arrival of darkness, the city comes to life, incendiary parties begin and evening trade opens. The settlement is especially good from October to May.

It is impossible to imagine Mexican resorts without the island of Cozumel, which is suitable for a relaxing and beach holiday. Thanks to its coral reef, it is popular with scuba diving enthusiasts. There are many inexpensive hotels here, mainly aimed at tourists involved in water sports and diving, who, as a rule, are not particularly picky and do not need luxury apartments.

For more discerning holidaymakers, there are luxury hotel complexes with accommodation in bungalows in the western part of the island.

Section 10. Diving and surfing

We have described all the main resorts in Mexico. What to choose depends on each individual traveler, or rather, on his tastes, preferences and financial situation.

The magnificent underwater landscapes and coral reef inhabitants of Mexico's coastal waters attract divers from all over the world.

On the island of Cozumel, in the Marine Coral Park, there is a coral reef that is the second largest on the planet in terms of its size. And the unusual Sea of ​​Cortez is home to many rare and exotic fish. Famous explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau dubbed it “the aquarium of the world.”

The Pacific and Gulf Coasts offer many interesting sites for wreck divers. The Yucatan Island attracts with its underground rivers. Mexican dive spots: Cancun, Cozumel, Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen.

Almost all resorts in Mexico are suitable for walking on the waves. Surfing competitions often take place here. The most famous surf beaches are in Cancun, Merida, Riviera Nayarit, and Puerto Escondido.

Traditionally, tourists come to meet three important things: Aztec and Mayan culture, early 20th century painting and colonial architecture. But this one picturesque country is also capable of giving every traveler an unforgettable holiday on wonderful beaches And discover the sights of ancient port cities.

Popular Mexican resorts on the Pacific Coast

Some of the best resorts in Mexico are located on the Pacific coast. The waters here are different. big waves, which attracts a huge number of surfing enthusiasts. In addition, Europeans traditionally prefer to relax here.

Resort city of Acapulco

One of the favorite resorts for a beach holiday among local residents is the city of Acapulco. It's hard to believe today, but back in the 1950s. last century, this place was one of the most visited resorts among Hollywood stars. However, accelerated construction polluted the coastal waters, and since 1976, the status of “beach capital” passed to Cancun and the Mayan Riviera.

Acapulco

Once brilliant, but today the city of Acapulco has lost its former importance is gradually aging and falling into disrepair. However, this place still lives up to its title of “the night capital of Mexico”, thanks to the huge number of casinos, shows and restaurants. The main attractions of Acapulco:

• Petroglifos de Palma Sola– archaeological zone in which they were found cave drawings, dating from around the 2nd century BC. Messages left by an unknown artist tell about the daily life of the local population, battles and sacred animals.
• Fuerte de San Diego– a pentagonal fortress located in Zocalo Square. It was built in 1616 to protect the coast and Spanish ships from Dutch and English privateers. Today, the Historico de Acapulco museum is opened in this building.

Other attractions:

• Cici Acapulco water park;
• Botanical Garden;

• Cathedral;
• La Quebrada cliff.

Cathedral

Beaches of Acapulco

The best time for a resort holiday in Acapulco is from late autumn to mid-spring. It is at this time that there is no rain, and average temperature at +27 °C is ideal for a beautiful tan. Main city beaches:

• Playa Caleta;
• Playa Condesa;

• Pie de la Cuesta;
• Playa Caletilla.

Did you know? In the late 1990s, the Mexican authorities seriously began cleaning up the coastal waters in Acapulco, and today the local beaches delight tourists with their cleanliness and well-groomed appearance.

Puerto Vaillarta

One of the most expensive resorts in Mexico - Puerto Vayarta located on the coast of Banderas Bay, 330 km from the city of Guadalajara. It was founded in 1851 as a fishing village and gained its current popularity only in 1964 after the release of the Hollywood film “The Night of the Iguana,” which takes place in these picturesque places.
As part of the expansion of Puerto Vayarta, the tourist area of ​​Nuevo Vayarta was developed, which is home to high-end luxury hotels, villas and celebrity homes.

Attractions and entertainment

Considered one of the cleanest and safe resorts in Mexico. Local beaches offer many opportunities for diving, surfing, fishing and other water sports. Top attractions in the city:

• Rio Cuale- an island on which a huge number of art galleries are located. You can get to this place via suspension bridges over the Kuale River, which offer an unforgettable view of the surrounding area.
• Church of Señora de Guadalupe– the most magnificent example of iconic architecture in Puerto Vaillarta. The temple was built in 1951, and its main red brick bell tower is decorated with a copy of the diadem of Empress Carlota, who ruled Mexico in the 18th century.
• Botanical Garden– an amazing place where you can see blooming bromeliads, orchids and other exotic plants, as well as enjoy the sight of fluttering butterflies and hummingbirds.

Botanical Garden

Beaches

Puerto Vaillarta – real city Sun. It shares the same latitude as Hawaii and also enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year, interrupted only briefly by the rainy season from June to October. There are more than 40 beaches within the city limits, the best of which are: Olas Atlas, De los Muertos and Las Animas.

Resorts Los Cabos

One of the most favorite vacation spots among Americans is Los Cabos is a resort area between the cities of San Jose del Cabo and San Lucas.. This amazing part of the Mexican coast, almost 40 km long, has an incredibly diverse landscape that will appeal to any visitor. The only thing that slightly overshadows the holiday in this paradise is the prices. They are overpriced here by about 25-30% compared to other Pacific resorts.

Entertainment and attractions

The diversity of the Los Cabos landscape provides generous opportunities for interesting pastimes at this resort. Tourists have the opportunity to engage in any kind of water sports, diving among corals, fishing, or take part in an original jeep safari on the territory local desert. Of particular interest to vacationers is watching the whales that come to the local waters from December to April in order to breed.

Did you know? Los Cabos has long and firmly gained fame world center golf tourism. On the territory of this resort area there are eight high-quality fields for this sport.

Beaches of Los Cabos

Throughout the entire 40 km zone, tourists will encounter more than 20 unique beaches, each of which is ideal for a specific type of holiday:

• Playa Costa Azul- the most popular place for surfing on the Pacific coast.
• Playa Chileno Thanks to its reef, it has become a favorite snorkeling and diving spot among tourists.
• Playa Palmilla incredibly popular among photographers and artists.

Did you know? All Los Cabos beaches are awarded the Blue Flag environmental certificate, which is awarded only to the cleanest beaches of coastal cities.

Playa Chileno

The best resorts in Mexico on the Caribbean Sea

The sandy, reef-protected beaches of the Caribbean are the best place for a relaxing resort holiday. Traditionally, the local coast is filled with tourists from and, who are attracted by the possibility of diving in the local waters, as well as the rich nightlife.
A real pearl in Mexico's resort necklace - Riviera Maya tourist area, whose beaches stretch along the entire coast Caribbean Sea in the state of Quintana Roo.

Resort Cancun (Mexico)

Cancun - the main resort city in the east of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Its eastern coast is washed by the waters of the Caribbean Sea, and its northern coast is washed by the Gulf of Mujeres. The climate in this area is tropical, with high humidity and average annual temperature+27 °C, the rainy season begins in May, and hurricanes are possible in August and September.
The city of Cancun was founded in 1970 and just 6 years later gained fame as a world-class resort. These days, it attracts more than 100,000 visitors a year, 60% of whom are US residents.

Attractions and entertainment in Cancun

In the city of Cancun, in addition to beach holidays, tourists also have access to a large selection of entertainment and attractions:

• El Embarcadero – Entertainment Center, on the second floor of which there is the fascinating Museum of Mexican Art. The Torre Cancun tower was built on the territory of the complex. Its observation deck offers an amazing view of the city.
• Interactive aquarium is one of the best attractions at La Isla Shopping Center. Here tourists are introduced to the underwater world of the Caribbean Sea and even have the opportunity to feed sharks.

Other attractions:

• ruins of del Rey;
• ruins of Yamil Lu'um;
• remains of the Pok Ta Pok temple;

• ancient city of El Meco;
• Nizuc water park.

ancient city of El Meco

Best beaches in Cancun

Most city beaches are located in the “Hotel Zone” and are clean and well-groomed. From the first to the ninth kilometer, the coastal waters are calm thanks to Mujares Island, which serves as a natural breakwater. From 10 to 22 kilometers of the beach area there are small waves, which are ideal for beginner surfers.
Main beaches:

• Playa Las Perlas;
• Playa Langosta;
• Playa Linda;

• Playa Tortugas;
• Playa Delfines.

Playa Las Perlas

Resort town of Playa del Carmen

Small, cozy town of Playa del Carmen, located in the heart of the Riviera Maya tourist area, – favorite place tourists from the Caribbean coast.

Attractions and entertainment

Playa del Carmen- a former fishing village, and therefore cultural and historical monuments there is no. Of some interest to tourists the main street– Fifth Avenue, where you can find original architectural structures and souvenir shops. Also, excursion groups quite often depart from this resort city to explore various attractions of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Beaches of Playa del Carmen

Main beach area "Playaсar", in the southern part of Playa del Carmen, is located right among the residential sector. Besides it, there are only two beaches in this city: Playa Paamul and Playa Paraiso. They are perfect for relaxation and water sports.

Playa Paamul

Important! Most Mexican beaches have designated hotels. However, employees do not have the right to prevent them from freely visiting.

City of Tulum

One of the most important urban planning monuments of pre-Columbian America, ancient port Maya Tulum, located on the Caribbean coast. The city is conventionally divided into three zones: resort, archaeological and residential. Most Interest For tourists there are ruins of Mayan temple complexes and pristine beaches.

Sights of Tulum

These days Tulum is small, resort town, and all its main attractions are represented by ancient Mayan buildings. This settlement even got its name “Tulum,” which means “fence” in Yucatecan, thanks to the high wall surrounding it on three sides. The most interesting architectural monuments in this city:

• Temple of Frescoes– one of the best preserved ancient buildings in Tulum. The surviving frescoes on its walls are made in the Toltec style. In ancient times, this place, in addition to religious functions, was used as an observatory, so the architectural structure is oriented to the west.
• Temple of the Descending Deity- a small building in the only room of which there is a sacrificial altar. Of considerable interest to tourists are the remains of painting and sculptures at the entrance to the room, as well as the statue of God himself.
• Wind Temple- a small sacrificial complex located on top of a round platform. The territory of the sanctuary offers a magnificent view of the city and its coast.

Wind Temple

Beaches of Tulum

The city beaches of Tulum are rightfully considered one of the best in Mexico. The local waters are characterized by absolute purity and a rich underwater world, thanks to which this place has long become a real Mecca for diving enthusiasts.

Mexico is one of the most visited countries in the world by tourists. And this is not surprising. Rich Mexican traditions have been preserved here, the local population is kind and hospitable, the country's nature is very beautiful, and the food is tasty and varied.

The original peoples of Mexico were Olmec, Toltec, Maya And Aztecs who created their own grandiose civilizations. In the early 1500s, Hernando Cortez made the country a Spanish colony for three centuries. And only on September 16, 1810, the Mexican Republic was established.

Mexico is located in the southern part of the North American continent and is washed by the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, bordered in the north by the United States, in the south by Guatemala and Belis.

Climate and weather

Mexico is divided into two climatic zones- tropical and temperate. There are four main altitudinal zones here, depending on the terrain features.

The hot zone includes the foothills of the mountains and coastal areas, characterized by high temperatures in summer and winter, as well as rainy summer-autumn periods. The warm zone is located at an altitude of 1000 to 1500 meters and is characterized by a moderate-hot climate. At altitudes from 1500 to 2700 meters there is a cool zone, it occupies a significant part of Mexico and is characterized by moderately warm summers and cool winters with frosts. The frost belt is located at an altitude of more than 2700 meters.

Average monthly temperatures all year round range from 10-30 °C. Most precipitation falls between June and September.

There is probably no time that is not suitable for visiting Mexico. Although it is still worth considering that the coastal and lowland regions of the country are quite hot and humid from May to September, while its continental part has a more temperate climate. It can sometimes be quite cool in the north from November to February. In essence, everyone will be able to choose comfortable conditions for themselves at any time of the year.

July and August are the most popular months for traveling in Mexico, both for foreigners and Mexicans themselves. The period from mid-December to early January is also popular. Locals love to travel in the week before and after Easter. During these periods coastal resorts are filled with crowds of tourists, and housing prices in popular areas increase.

Nature

Mexico has a diverse nature - here you will find everything from marshland to desert, from tropical vegetation to alpine meadows. Most of the country's territory is located at an altitude of more than 1000 m. Central regions presented Mexican Highlands, which is surrounded by mountain ranges in the west and east. The highest point in the country is a volcano Orizaba(5700 m). Northern part Mexico - plateau North Mesa- arid and sparsely populated. Mountains stretch along the local coast.

There are more than 350 volcanoes in the country. Another natural object associated with geological activity is a sea geyser La Bufadora off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico.

There are more rivers in the southeast of the country than in the northwest. The largest rivers:

• Rio Grande;
• Lerma;
• Balsas.

The largest lake is Chapala.

Attractions

In the cities of Mexico, ancient palaces, monasteries, churches and public buildings. Spanish rule had a significant influence on the local architecture.

Mexico City- the capital of the country, as well as its main tourist center. There are many attractions and famous museums (anthropological, historical and others). Visit Mexican artist Frida Kahlo's museum, known as Blue house" Also worth a visit Presidential palace And Palace of Cortez, built in the 16th century, on the square Cocalo. The first floor of this building is decorated with frescoes by Diego Riviera.

Another Palace of Cortez is located in the city Cuernavaca, 100 km from the capital. It is considered the oldest civil structure in both Americas, North and South. Now it houses the Historical Museum.

In 1999, the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List Campeche- the capital of the state of the same name. Don't miss the opportunity to see it here:

• fortifications of the 17th century;
• Bastion of Saint Carlos;
• earthen gate;
• port of Saint Miguel.

Mexico is a country of great and mysterious civilizations, traces of which are preserved mainly in the central mountainous regions and on the peninsula Yucatan. True historical monuments are pyramids And ruins of ancient settlements.

When you come to Mexico, be sure to visit the Aztec city Teotihuacan, which is located 50 km from Mexico City. This archaeological complex is one of the best preserved complexes of ancient Indian cultures on Earth.

Chichen Itza- Mayan capital. It is located 180 km from Cancun and 140 km from Merida. The date of construction of the complex is 430-1400 AD. It is one of the largest ceremonial centers of the Mayan culture with numerous monuments.

Nutrition

Mexico has an incredible number of cafes and restaurants. There, Mexicans have breakfast, lunch, and dinner - women in the cities of this country rarely stand behind the stove.

Corn is a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine. No breakfast, lunch or dinner is complete without a basket of hot cornmeal tortillas. You can buy it everywhere in Mexico tacos, which are made from the same flatbread topped with beef, pork or fish. Other common antojitos(snacks) based on corn:

• tamales (banana leaves or banana leaves soaked in various spicy sauces);
• quesadillas (fried tortillas filled with cheese and vegetables);
• flautas (flat cakes rolled like cigars, stuffed with chicken and deep fried).

Spicy salsa, often served in clay bowls, is another essential dish on any Mexican table. Fresh fish and shellfish are the main delicacies here. Vegetarians in Mexico should try nopales, juicy and slightly slimy leaves of the prickly pear cactus, as well as different kinds mushrooms Also look out for exotic fruits such as zapote(sapodilla) and tuna(fruits of cacti).

Popular local alcoholic drinks include tequila, mezcal and rum. From beer - Corona and Sol with a light and refreshing taste. And, of course, Mexican coffee liqueur Kahlua, famous all over the world.

Accommodation

Hotels in Mexico are numerous, ranging from modest guesthouses to large international chains. There are many mid-price establishments in the country. They are generally clean, comfortable and can range from strictly functional complexes to restored historic buildings. Each hotel in Mexico has strictly approved rates for high and low seasons. In addition, many of them offer significant discounts out of season. Average cost of a double room - 65 $ per day.

In large resorts such as Cancun, all-inclusive hotels are popular. Here, as a rule, the price of your stay includes all meals, snacks, soft and alcoholic (locally produced) drinks, as well as all kinds of entertainment programs and active recreation.

The most pleasant and relaxing places to stay in Mexico are cabanas located in the suburbs, for example:

• in the Lacandon jungle of Chiapas;
• on the islands of Lake Patzcuaro in Michoacan;
• on top of Nevado de Toluca (volcanic peak west of Mexico City).

They are all built of wood, but the style and level of comfort varies from a rustic hut without electricity or bedding to comfortable bungalows with a fireplace, kitchen and hammocks. Accommodation prices here start from 16 $ per day.

For young people and budget travel to major cities and main tourist places There are hostels - rooms for 4-20 people, with a shared bathroom and kitchen. The cost of living there varies from 7 before 20 $ in a day.

Travelers can also stay on ranches or farms with the owner's family, subsequently taking part in daily labor and herding cattle, as well as receiving cooking lessons.

Entertainment and relaxation

Mexico is a country of vibrant festivals that are held everywhere. Centuries-old traditions are alive here, and each holiday has its own characteristics.

Performances by instrumental ensembles are common throughout the country. mariachi. As a rule, they consist of two violins, a six-string guitar, a small five-string lute - haranita and a large bass guitar - guitarron. The musicians are dressed in elegant national clothes: They wear a white shirt with a black tie, tight leather trousers with a faja - a strip of fabric wrapped around the waist, and the usual sombrero on their heads.

Each Mexican province has its own song and dance genres and folklore performances:

• sandunga from Tehuantepec;
• Chiapacenas from the state of Chiapas;
• Harana from Ocatan;
• Huapango and Bamba from the state of Veracruz.

You can also attend performances of the “carp” - a traveling circus tent.

The most popular sports in the country are football, baseball, horse racing, and jai alai.

Mexico City is home to two bullrings, one of them the largest in the world.

Mexico can boast fantastic beaches located on both coasts. Acapulco, Cancun And Celestun- resorts that you will remember for a long time. There is a wonderful climate here, beautiful nature and well-developed infrastructure.

Purchases

Bring home a piece of Mexico - buy a local souvenir. This can be done in the villages where they are produced, as well as in shops and city markets. A large selection of handicrafts collected throughout Mexico is presented in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, San Miguel de Allende, Puebla. There are markets that specialize in selling souvenirs. Prices there will be lower than in the store.

Hypermarkets, shopping centers, and supermarkets are suitable for purchasing daily necessities. In the center of big cities you can find old shops with a special atmosphere.

The most popular purchases home from Mexico are: ceramics, masks, woodwork, jewelry, metal work, textiles, bags, wicker baskets, traditionally designed clothing, musical instruments.

Shops are usually open from 9:00 to 20:00, Monday to Saturday. In the south, especially in small towns, some shops close for siesta from 14:00 to 16:00, and on Saturday they are open only until lunch.

Transport

All major cities and some smaller cities have airports. Domestic flight is a good alternative to a long flight bus trip. Aeromexico is the main airline in the country. There are also many small carriers that primarily operate flights between small towns.

Passenger ferries operate between:

• Santa Rosalia and Guyamas;
• La Paz and Mazatlan;
• La Paz and Topolobampo.

Also ferry service connects the Yucatan Peninsula with the islands.

Mexico has good roads and a highly developed bus network. Most cities have one central station where buses arrive long distance. There are several classes of service:

• de lujo (comfortable buses with a video screen, drinks and snacks, air conditioning and toilet);
• primera clase (differed from premium class by more frequent stops);
• segunda clase (connect small towns and villages, slow and cheap way travel, tickets are sold from the conductor).

First class travel costs approx. 5-7 $ in an hour.

In the country right-handed traffic. The permissible speed varies from 80 to 120 km/h on highways, from 30 to 50 km/h in populated areas. Both the driver and passengers must wear seat belts. There are many one-way roads in cities.

City buses are called camiones. A trip there will cost about $0.4. Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey have subways.

In 2000, passenger rail services were discontinued with one exception - from Chihuahua to the Pacific Ocean along Copper Canyon. This is one of the most beautiful train routes in the world.

Connection

Long-distance calls in Mexico are inexpensive, but international calls can drain your wallet. Calls from the hotel are the most unprofitable method of communication; their prices are very high.

There are three main mobile operators in the country: Telcel, IUSACell, Movistar. SIM card cost - from 16 $ . U Telcel the widest coverage network and many sales points, one of them is located at Mexico City airport. Cards from this operator can also be purchased at newsstands and minimarkets.

Casetas, cabinas and locutorio are points public use telephone, which can be found by the corresponding sign on the sign. This is much more profitable than calling from a pay phone. In addition, your conversation will not be disturbed by street noise.

Cards for street payphones can be purchased at kiosks and minimarkets in denominations of 2.5, 4 and 8 $. On average, a minute of conversation will cost 2 $ .

There are more than a thousand Internet cafes in Mexico; an hour of using Internet access will cost 1 $ . Many hotels offer their guests computers with Internet connections and Wi-Fi services. Access points, including free ones, can also be found at airports, bars and cafes.

Safety

Mexico has a fairly high level of crime and police corruption. Therefore, when traveling here, be especially careful to take precautions. Then you can minimize the risk of unpleasant situations.

Crime problems exist in Mexico City, Acapulco, Monterrey, and cities along the U.S. border (such as Nuevo Lareda, Tijuana, and Ciudad Juarez). Thefts occur most often in poor neighborhoods of megacities and northern border cities. Do not leave your belongings unattended, especially on the beach - you may not find them when you return after your next swim. You need to be especially careful with taxis in Mexico City.

Watch your health. Use insect repellent to avoid contracting malaria and dengue fever. Hepatitis A is common in Mexico, so be careful about what you drink and eat.

The country is located in a seismically dangerous area. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are common here. The most famous of them are Popocatepetl ("smoking mountain") and Ixtasihuatl ("white mother").

Business climate

In Mexico, the largest number of exhibition centers are located in Mexico City- there are 4 of them. In Guadalajara, Acapulco, Pueblo, Leon, Monterrey and Cancun - 1 each.

Mexico is one of the main oil-producing and oil-exporting countries in the world. Leading industries: mining, oil, petrochemical, metallurgical, construction, textile, food and mechanical engineering.

Main taxes: income tax - 3-28%, profit tax - 30%, VAT - 16%.

Real estate

Real estate here is much cheaper than in many others resort countries, for example in France, Cyprus or Italy. But in addition to attractive housing prices, Mexico can also offer excellent weather almost all year round and snow-white beaches.

The most popular places to buy real estate in Mexico are primarily resort areas, the city of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula, Acapulco and Los Cabos (prices here are the highest in the country).

In Mexico, there are residential complexes for people with a wide range of income levels: from apartments to luxurious mansions on coastline.

A two-bedroom condominium costs $100,000; an apartment of the same size in a new complex will cost $300,000. A 3-4 bedroom home can be purchased for $750,000.

It should be noted that foreign citizens It is prohibited to buy property in a “closed zone”, that is, in areas located less than 10 km from the border, 50 km from the coastline and on island territories. But despite this, it is still possible to legally buy housing on the coast. For this purpose the system is used Fideicomiso- trust fund. There are three parties involved in buying a home: the seller, the fictitious buyer and the real buyer. The property is registered in the name of a fictitious buyer, although he is not the real owner. The title deed is usually held by the bank and the fictitious buyer is the trust.

In other areas, purchasing real estate takes 2-3 weeks. First, a purchase and sale agreement is concluded, and the buyer pays the seller 10% of the value of the property. Then the notary prepares and registers all the necessary documents. After this, when all the documents are in the hands of the buyer, the entire purchase amount is paid.

The tax ranges from $40 to $120 per year.

All real estate transactions in Mexico are conducted in US dollars.

Since 2009, the Mexican authorities have made concessions to simplify procedures for obtaining a visa for Russian citizens. The Mexican Embassy in the Russian Federation is located in Moscow on Bolshoy Levshinsky Lane, building No. 4. Here you can apply for a tourist visa ($36), business and visitor visas ($134). Standard validity period tourist visa- 5 and 10 years. The length of stay in Mexico can range from 14 to 90 days.

If you don't speak Spanish, don't worry—most tourism workers in Mexico speak English. However, if you make the effort to learn a few words in Spanish, you will be able to better connect with the Mexicans you meet. Here are a few words to help you:

• "hola" - greeting;
• "gracias" - thank you;
• “por favor” - please;
• “Quanto Cuesta” - how much does it cost?

In Mexico, it is customary to tip 10% in restaurants. On international resorts tips increase to 15-20%. It is customary to leave 2-3 $ for maids.

The best currency exchange rates can be found at banks. The rate at the airport is good compared to hotel rates. Changing money at a hotel is a bad idea. Street cambios or exchange offices offer a rate that is slightly worse than at a bank, but they have convenient operating hours. Almost everywhere in Mexico you can pay for goods and services in dollars. But keep in mind that conversion from Mexican pesos will be carried out at an unfavorable rate.

In Mexico, the types of outlets are different from what we are used to. Here you will need an adapter for American sockets with grounding and without grounding.

Visa information

Since 2010, citizens of the Russian Federation and Ukraine have been given the opportunity to obtain a free Mexican visa. To do this, you need to correctly fill out a special form, which is located on the official website of the embassy, ​​and receive a unique code, which you then need to print. This permission is granted to the airline (when purchasing a flight to Mexico) and during passport control. Please note that you cannot enter Mexico without presenting a printed permit. This e-visa allows you to stay in Mexico for up to 180 days, but is only valid for a single entry.

Citizens of the Russian Federation who have a US visa are allowed to enter the country without a Mexican visa, and the number of trips is not limited.

The Mexican Embassy in the Russian Federation is located at: Moscow, per. Bolshoi Levshinsky, 4.