33 Reasons I Love Mexico: Insights from 9 Months of Travel
Having spent nearly nine months traveling extensively across Mexico—from the Pacific Coast and Yucatan road trips to savoring Mexico City's culinary scene and exploring countless Maya ruins—I've developed a deep affection for this vibrant country. As a seasoned traveler with firsthand experience, here are 33 things I love about Mexico:
1. Mexican Food – Far beyond expectations, Mexico's cuisine captivated us with tlayudas, panuchos, bean quesadillas, potato tacos, chilaquiles, and massive tortas in Mexico City. A true culinary adventure! 2. Driving golf carts around Isla Mujeres. This Caribbean gem is among my top favorite spots in Mexico.
3. Mexicans – The friendliest people on the planet, known for their warmth and hospitality.
4. Markets – Vibrant and immersive, from Oaxaca's 20 de Noviembre market with its fried grasshoppers and mezcal to everyday stalls (even the more rustic sights like fresh livestock add authenticity).
5. Huevos motuleños – Discovered in Palenque, this breakfast features fried tortillas topped with black beans, eggs, sauce, plantains, and optional ham. Absolutely divine!
6. Cenotes – Swimming in these refreshing Yucatan sinkholes was an exhilarating first-time experience.
7. Victoria Beer – A refreshing classic we grew to adore.
8. Mexico City – This dynamic metropolis blends creativity, art, markets, and music amid posh Polanco, bohemian La Condesa, and historic Centro. From mariachis to modern nightlife, it's chaotically charming. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera's legacy thrives here with world-class museums.
9. The Caribbean Coast, especially Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres with its shallow, crystal-clear waters. Stunning beaches in Tulum, Akumal, and Xcalak are highlights.
10. Valladolid – A enchanting Pueblo Mágico on the Yucatan; shh, keep it our secret.
11. Mariachi Bands – Joyful and infectious, notes or not.
12. Agua Fresca – Massive fruit-blended waters like cantaloupe and guayaba are a healthy delight.
13. Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul – Intimate with her art, belongings, and lush gardens.
14. The Cattle grazing outside our home in San Luis Beltrán, Oaxaca.
15. Colorful Traditional Clothes – From Oaxaca's wool weaves and San Cristóbal's styles to Yucatan's embroidered gowns, plus authentic cowboys. A proud cultural uniform.
16. Diego Rivera Murals in Mexico City – Profound insights into history; a full day uncovering them reveals his immense influence.
17. San Cristóbal de las Casas – The most picturesque colonial town visited.
18. Tacos from Calle Uruguay Vendor – Near Pastelería Ideal #74 in Mexico City; join the crowd for the best. Pair with agua fresca.
19. Lizards Galore! From geckos in Playa del Carmen to iguanas at ruins and close encounters with crocodiles.
20. Historical Ruins – Majestic Maya and Aztec sites: Teotihuacán, Monte Albán, Palenque, Tulum, Chichén Itzá.
21. Mexican Bakeries – Irresistible displays of cakes, parfaits, and breads. Shoutout to Pastelería Ideal!
22. Cheladas and Micheladas – Beer with tomato juice, spices—a Bloody Mary reinvented.
23. Tuk-Tuks in Oaxaca – Fun and practical.
24. Mexican Buses – Reliable, clean services like ADO with AC and entertainment for long hauls.
25. Hostal La Candelaria in Valladolid – Top hostel with clean rooms, kitchens, gardens, friendly owners, and adorable Chihuahuas.
26. Free Wi-Fi – Ubiquitous in parks with charging outlets—better than any café!
27. Lucha Libre – High-energy wrestling spectacle; the crowd makes it electric.
28. Police on Horseback, sombreros optional—iconic!
29. Fruit in a Bag – Freshly cut, spiced, and limed for $1.
30. Professional Laundry – Under $4 for wash, dry, iron—impeccably folded.
31. Mexican Mannequins – Quirky and endearing.
32. Pacific Coast Beaches – Riviera Nayarit is breathtaking.
33. Road Tripping in the Yucatan – Colonial villages, beaches, cenotes, ruins, jungle—on well-maintained roads.
What are your favorite things about Mexico? Share in the comments below!
