The Mexican lifestyle

Located in North America, Mexico is world famous for its seas and heavenly beaches, its idyllic temperatures, as well as its archaeological sites and vast natural parks full of flourishing wildlife. The country has a strong tourism touch all year long with thousands of visitors coming in from all over the world. Although the cost of living can be quite high in some cities, life in the land of Sombreros can be very calm and peaceful. This is why Mexico is one of the world's key expat and retiree destinations.

Mexico is also known to be a festive country, both day and night. But at the same time, it is also a place that's quite polluted due to accelerated development and political corruption. Moreover, some regions consist of danger zones. So it is better to inquire about the different cities and neighbourhoods before moving there.

Culture and traditions in Mexico

The Mexican population is known to be highly active, consisting of various traditional and cultural activities almost all-year-round. You are likely to find ''mariachis'' which are musical bands whose musicians are dressed in slim black trousers and a very short coat, as well as a Sombrero (a very large hat), heeled boots, sporting guitars violins and trumpets. These musical bands usually accompany civil, festive and religious celebrations. In fact, these are so popular that their music has been recognized as an immaterial human heritage by the UNESCO in 2010.

'Ferias', which are held all around the country, usually indicate the fruit season and are very colourful events. Beauty and dance contests, 'corridas', horse races, cockfights, among others, are also held during this period. Corridas are appreciated for their family get-togethers from November to March.

Mexico is also known for the famous piñatas which are a real delight for children during festivals as well as birthday parties, Christmas and New Year's Eve.

Mexican feasts

Mexico is always celebrating one festival or another, be it from January to April or from September to December. If you are settling there, you will be able to enjoy the Epiphany, the Three Holy Kings Day, carnivals, the Holy Week, Independence Day, Day of the Dead, the Virgin of Guadalupe´s Day, along with many others.

You simply cannot remain in an off mood in Mexico. Happiness, prayers and music are almost omnipresent in this joyful and colourful country.

Arts in Mexico

Mexico also has a rich cultural and artistic history which is portrayed through Aztec and Mayan murals. These show a better image of much of the population's cultural and religious origins. Moreover, the famous artist Miguel Cabrera has demonstrated New Spain through religious paintings and portraits.

The country is also home to many contemporary post-revolution painters, musicians, photographers, etc. These later gave rise to a distinct Mexican identity based on regional and traditional concepts.

With regards to Mexican arts and crafts, you can only be amazed by Teotitlan carpets, Talavera, which are very popular with tourists.

Mexican mentality

You will be astonished by Mexican's lateness tendencies, contrasting with their festive attitude. But you will rapidly get used to that. They are just a few miles away from the British custom of being at least 15 minutes earlier. Being late at an appointment is almost a custom in Mexico.

You should also know that everything can be negotiated in the country, from a taxi trip to.the price of rent and even days off from work.

Useful links:

Mexperience - Living in Mexico 

News:
El Mercurio
Noroeste - Culiacan
La Opinion - Veracruz
Artes de Mexico - Culture