World Country Guide

Overview

‘Ancient faces of a modern country’

Almost 500 years on, the impact of Spanish conquistador Hernn Corts’ arrival on Mexico’s shores can be seen in the tall, ornate churches that crown the hillsides and plazas of Mexico’s cities and the whitewashed walls of haciendas. But traces of earlier inhabitants remain in the remarkable temples and pyramids at Palenque and Teotihuacn, and in the traditions of dozens of indigenous cultures. Accompanying it all are the subtle spices of Mexico’s famous tortillas, tamales and enchiladas, washed down with bold red wines and potent tequila and mescal.

The frenetic heart of the country, Mexico City sweeps out from the gigantic flag over the central Zcalo square. It’s a city of speeding VW taxis, pollution and bustling marketplaces, countered by colourful Aztec dancers and panaderas with their freshly baked pastries, all mirrored in the fractured structure of the city – a legacy of recent earthquakes. In nearby Xochimilco, vividly decorated trajineras (large, flat gondolas) drift lazily past delicate floating terraces of flowers to the sound of mariachi music.

On the west coast of Mexico, the small fishing towns like Puerto Angel and resorts like Acapulco overlook the Pacific Ocean, while to the east, the white beaches of Cozumel and Cancn are known the world over for their enticing beauty. Mexico is truly a blend of cultures and customs, a place where history comes alive and beauty is second nature.

Jan Lee