7 Mistakes Tourists Make in Mexico

Mexico Flag by iivangm via Flickr

1. Only Going to Cancun

Cancun is the ultimate beach destination for American tourists looking for a nearby getaway, spring breakers, and those who love an all-inclusive resort. While Cancun has a lot of appeal with its pristine Caribbean beaches, world-class tourist facilities, and many water activities, you have to get beyond the resort section if you really want a feel for Mexican culture. If you’re short on time, leave the resort to explore some of the cultural sites along the Riviera Maya such as Tulum. But if you want to really experience Mexico, and not a gringofied version of it, add more stops to your itinerary, like the colonial city of Oaxaca, the Pacific coast beach town of Puerto Vallarta, the Calakmul ruins, the Copper Canyon and the capital, Mexico City.

2. Not visiting Mexico City

This highly underrated capital city doesn’t get enough attention from tourists. Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world, and has often been held back by perceptions that it is polluted, chaotic and dangerous. But you would be missing out massively if you skipped the capital. If you have any interest in culture, Mexico City is the place to be. It’s an art lover’s paradise with a wide array of art museums, galleries, murals and sculptures scattered in the open air around the city. Mexico City also boasts a staggering number of museums, from anthropology, to fine arts, history to tequila. Need more convincing? You can also find gorgeous colonial architecture, big parks, and a culinary goldmine, with tasty options ranging from street food to gourmet restaurants. Oh and the remarkable Teotihuacán ruins are conveniently located just outside the city.

Mexico City by Blok 70 via Flickr

3. Being overly paranoid about security

Sure, the drug war does dominate news cycles about Mexico, and many of us remember the era where kidnappings were commonplace. But while a high level of violence is present in the country, mainly between cartels and those caught in the crossfire, you can still travel here safely. As long as you’re staying on the main tourist routes, don’t let your fears ruin your holiday. Do protect yourself by following certain safety precautions such as not flashing about fancy jewelry and obvious signs of wealth, not walking alone at night, taking radio taxis rather than hailing random cabs, and not putting yourself in dangerous situations because you overindulged in tequila. If you’re planning a trip outside the main tourist hotspots, always consult with the locals first about the safety of the area.

4. Ordering a burrito

Your standard order at Taco Bell isn’t quite going to cut it in Mexico. Like many other Americanised dishes, burritos are actually Tex-Mex. While they are eaten in the North of country, most of Mexico doesn’t consider burritos a national dish and you won’t find them on the menu. So rather than hoping for burritos, hard-shell tacos, fajitas and nachos (at least the way you’re used to eating them), expand your culinary horizons and embrace real Mexican food.

Tacos al Pastor by William Neuheisel via Flickr

5. Avoiding street food

Look, no one wants food poisoning while they’re on holiday. But that doesn’t mean you should shy away from street food. In fact, street food can often be a safer bet as you can see how the food is being prepared, and go where there is a long line of locals – always a good sign. Some of the best food you’ll find in Mexico is on the streets: tacos, tamales, tortas, chicharrónes, quesadillas, sopes… it’s a long list of mouthwatering goodness. Of course, ease yourself into it, especially with chillies and hot salsas. To help avoid Moctezuma’s revenge, take precautionary probiotics, and definitely avoid tap water.

6. Not learning Spanish

You weren’t planning on learning Spanish? No manches! Learning a bit of basic Spanish before you go to Mexico is definitely a good idea. While you can get around Cancun and parts of Mexico City easily with just English, other parts of the country speak very little English. Not only will speaking Spanish make your life easier, it’ll also allow you to connect with the locals and get a bit more out of your Mexican experience. Plus, there’s a lot of really fun Mexican sayings and slang that you don’t want to miss out on if you’re not open to learning a bit of the local language.

Palenque by Dennis Jarvis via Flickr

7. Expecting clichéd stereotypes

Mexico and its people are often badly stereotyped, which means many tourists come to the country with certain misconceptions. Don’t show up expecting to see people in ponchos and sombreros, with a tequila bottle in hand, followed by a mariachi band. Mexico is actually quite diverse. There is a mix of indigenous Amerindians, Mestizo, European immigrants, and immigrants the Middle East and Asia. The majority of the population lives in urban areas, where there is a growing middle class. This means that Mexico doesn’t fit into neat stereotypes. Don’t insult the locals with preconceived notions. Instead, embrace them with their diversity, and you will see just why Mexicans got their reputation as a warm, friendly and inviting nation.

Avoid these faux pas and get ready to delve into one of the most interesting countries, jampacked with culture, phenomenal food, and incredible pre-Columbian history. One last thing before you go: see if you have the Spanish skills you need to get around by taking this language level test.