Culture and Courtesy? Being a Better Traveler in Mexico
By:
Videos
Sponsored Links Haz Click Aqui Por Los Categorias
Haz Click Aqui Para ver Videos
Videos
Sponsored Links Haz Click Aqui Para ver Videos
Click Here For Categories
10 Responses to “Culture and Courtesy? Being a Better Traveler in Mexico”
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Estadísticas:
Visitas desde 7/2007
Pagina De Inicio's - Noticias de Hoy
Privacy Policy y
Entries (RSS)
and Comments (RSS)
and Subscribe to Blog Mundo by Email.
August 22nd, 2012 at 4:45 pm
By: Lisa Coleman
I’m sure you’ve heard “when in Rome…. do as the Romans do,” but when stepping into a foreign country it’s really worth considering these words a bit more carefully. The saying originated in 387 A.D. when St. Augustine arrived in Milan and observed the Catholic Church did not fast on Saturday like it was done in Rome. He consulted the Bishop of Milan (St. Ambrose) about the matter who simply replied: “When I am in Rome I fast on Saturday; when I am in Milan, I do not. Follow the custom of where you are.” That sentiment has stood the test of time and can really make a difference when visiting Mexico, or any other country for that matter.
I have traveled the world and feel there is nothing more frustrating than watching “ugly Americans” (Canadians are guilty, too!) being rude or disrespectful to the local people. Regardless of whether it’s an all-inclusive in Cancun where everyone speaks English, or an eco-hotel in the remote jungle of Chiapas, you are still a guest in Mexico… you are still visiting someone’s home. As a citizen of the world, you owe it to yourself and your hosts to take the time to understand the basics of the Mexican culture and to embrace their hospitality with the respect it deserves. I have seen bad manners exhibited many times in Mexico, so I am hoping to shed a little light on some common courtesies that may change your travel experience. At the very least, it will bring a smile to your Mexican hosts!
First, let’s talk about changing your mindset when you plan a trip to Mexico and switch from being a tourist to being a traveler. What’s the difference? Plenty…
• A tourist expects (and insists) everyone speaks English. A traveler tries to use even the most basic high school Spanish to make an effort.
• A tourist is content to hang out at the swim-up bar getting lobster-red sunburn while becoming louder, drunker, and more obnoxious by the minute. The traveler heads into town, checks out the local markets, tries to make heads or tails of the menus at local restaurants and takes the time to stroll the streets, smile at the people and take in the flavor and color of the place they are visiting.
• A tourist goes to the local McDonalds, American chain restaurant, or orders a hamburger at the hotel. A traveler will find out where the best local dishes are served and at the very least give them a try.
• A tourist is content to be part of a group and to take large tours to all the most famous spots. A traveler tends to rent a car with a few other people (or solo) and explore the area on their own.
That list could go on forever, but you get the idea.
Mexico is also far more formal than many would think. If you know anything about Mexican history, you know the Spanish had a tremendous influence on the people and culture of the country. The early Spanish overlords who came to Mexico in the 1500s brought the etiquette of the Royal Court of Spain, and many of those formalities still exist. As a rule, the Mexicans have maintained this cortesía, and it’s important that foreigners be aware and sensitive to not insulting the dignidad of the people they encounter.
The Basics
• For starters, it helps to use Señor (Mr.) or Señora (Mrs.) with the men or women you encounter. Mexicans always address by social status and this immediately shows respect and will be a quick step in the right direction. (Señorita would be used to address a young, unmarried woman and is similar to Miss.)
• In a restaurant, if you wish to call the waiter, you generally use the term Joven (Ho-ven). Though it means “young person,” it is an accepted term for all waiters. If you have a waitress, Señorita is appropriate. Snapping your fingers? Never.
• ”Please” (por favor) and “Thank You” (gracias) are a given if you’d like to ask an employee (or anyone for that matter) to do something. Look them in the eye and be sincere, it will take you a long way.
• Americans tend to enter a room of strangers and only say hello in passing, if at all. They are usually casual, self absorbed and miss the almost constant greetings by their Mexican counterparts. Whether it’s in a public place with strangers, or with people you already know, say buenos días (good morning), buenas tardes (good afternoon) or buenas noches (good evening) to those you see. You’ll notice smiles right away.
• Being humble is a cultural virtue often forgotten by visitors. Mexicans will always welcome you when you arrive to your destination and refer to their home or even your hotel as su casa (your house). They are modest and truly want you to feel at home in their country. Keep an eye out for that and be sure to thank them for their hospitality.
• If you can’t speak Spanish, don’t insult the local people by shouting louder and slower in English. It’s rude and it doesn’t change the fact that they don’t understand. They will appreciate any effort you make, regardless of your skill level.
• YES it is customary to tip in Mexico. Here is a great article for reference: http://gomexico.about.com/od/historyculture/qt/tipping_in_mexico.htm
• Come to a church just as you would at home. Be aware when entering and always take off sunglasses, baseball caps or hats. Wearing shorts is rarely an issue in the beach areas, but women should take care to wear a wrap or sweater to the waist to avoid showing too much skin, which could viewed disrespectful in such places.
• The beach is the beach, but away from the resort areas shorts are very rarely worn by Mexicans on the street. Be cognizant of how you look and avoid drawing too much attention to yourself as a foreigner. Never wear shorts to a business event or to a restaurant outside the immediate resort area.
The Mexican culture isn’t overly complex. It’s built on simplicity, humility and courtesy. The people are tremendously warm and inviting, and genuinely care about their guests. Whether you’re a tourist, a traveler, or a little of both, take an extra few minutes to embrace Mexico at its core and I think you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of a country waiting to invite you home.
This article was originally posted on http://www.mexicotoday.org. Click to read all the latest Mexico news.
August 22nd, 2012 at 4:57 pm
Pueblos Magicos: The Mountainside City of Taxco is the Jewel of Guerrero
Mexico Today News:
Vibrant colors, Old World style, ornate architecture, cobblestone streets and distinctly locked in time… this is the mystique of Taxco. An hour from Cuernavaca, this is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque towns in all of Mexico. In the early 1500’s, Jose de la Borda (a Frenchman living in Spain) heard of rich mineral deposits in the New World and rushed to Mexico to try his luck. He struck it rich in Taxco. Since then the city has been deemed the “Silver City” and is known worldwide for its pure silver jewelry and handicrafts. Read more….
August 22nd, 2012 at 5:17 pm
David Simmonds
It seems like a simple enough question, doesn’t it? You are at point in your life when a major change is possible. You’ve traveled to a few places in Mexico, kicked back on the beach at sunset with a cold cerveza and thought “I really like this place – the weather is perfect, prices are good, the people are amazing – yes, maybe I could make this happen.” And then, of course, most of us go back home and dutifully fall into the familiar daily grind, only occasionally allowing ourselves to remember that day on the beach and the possible plan that always seems…just out of reach.
But now, more and more of us are acting on those elusive dreams. For many that time in life has arrived when the impossible becomes the possible, the impractical becomes “just maybe.” The Baby Boomers, those ‘60’s counterculture rebels-in-waiting, have worked for 40 years and are finally ready to be the people they remember they were. At the core, they are still the backpackers and wanderers, the idealists and the dreamers. And Mexico, after all, is so close, and it has all those warm beaches, and history, and food carts serving those mesquite tacos…just maybe.
And it’s not just the Boomers. The internet has changed everything over the past 20 years. Today you find younger gringos, many with families, living in Mexico. They have web-based businesses they can run from anywhere, or they have started a physical business in Mexico – a restaurant, a tour business, a real estate office. They live in a Mexican neighborhood and are learning Spanish. They have discovered the concept of community, a soul-satisfying lifestyle that has all but disappeared in many towns and cities north of the border.
Moving to another country, without doubt, is a big deal, and requires extensive research and planning. That beautiful little colonial town in the highlands seemed like a place you could call home forever when you visited for that one idyllic week last year. As did the fishing village where you spent two weeks last Christmas – well before the rainy season with all the bugs and humidity that no one thought to mention to you. Finding your spot, the place that you could live, requires that you spend some time there, summer and winter. You need to see if you can adjust to the pace, the daily life challenges, the Mexican way.
Pick several places that you think you could live. Do extensive research on the net, read the blogs and join the discussion groups. Ask questions from people who are in Mexico. Learn all that you can, and then plan a road trip, either by car, bus, plane or most likely a combination of all three. Initially, spend at least a few days in the places you are considering. Look at the neighborhoods where you might live, not just the tourist area. How is the local transportation, the town infrastructure, the cultural options? Can you get back to the US or Canada directly if you need to without sitting all day in the Mexico City airport waiting for your flight. If you’re on the ocean is the water actually accessible for safe swimming? How are the medical services? That is a big issue. How will you spend your days? If you are retiring, what are you going to do with yourself? Will you soon be bored, waiting for happy-hour every day? These are just some of the many questions you will need to answer before you haul all your things down there to set up house and a new life.
I am always asked “where is the best place in Mexico?” And, of course, it is impossible to answer. It is a different place for everyone, and is answered from the heart more than the head. For me it is the West Coast of mainland Mexico, in the states of Nayarit, Jalisco and Colima. I like the jungle, warm water, and crashing surf. I like to watch the sun set over the sea and the discovery of a beach with no footprints that I haven’t seen before. Yes, for me, that is the best place in Mexico, I answer them.
So, is Mexico for you? It is estimated that about a million Americans and Canadians live at least a few months in Mexico every year. I know many of them, and most have told me it is the best decision they have ever made. They feel safe, leading full, interesting lives, and wouldn’t go back full time to their old hometowns if you paid them to. They have discovered that it’s never too late to be that person they remember. How about you?
This article was oringally published on http://www.mexicotoday.org . Click to visit the site for all current Mexico news.
August 22nd, 2012 at 5:35 pm
By: Lisa Coleman
Mexico recently stepped onto the world stage, and this time it was for all the right reasons. It’s no secret the headlines don’t do Mexico many favors, but perhaps the tides are turning. Perhaps there will be some much needed focus on the good news in Mexico… because there IS good news… and lots of it.
I recently returned from a trip to the Riviera Maya for the WTTC (World Travel & Tourism Council – http://www.wttc.org) inaugural Regional Summit of the Americas event, which celebrates the economic and social contribution of Travel & Tourism in a particular region (but also addresses the real challenges the industry faces). This was significant for Mexico on many levels, but primarily because it brought together world and industry leaders who understand the importance of tourism.
Tourism defines Mexico, and even in times of trouble, it is this industry that continues to soar and continues to elevate their economy. Travel & Tourism sustained a total of 6.3 million direct, indirect and induced jobs in Mexico in 2011. And for every US$1 million spent on travel and tourism, it generates a further US$1.5 million to the Mexican economy as a whole, as well as 66 jobs per (compared to an average of 42 for all sectors). The Travel & Tourism industry generates more jobs than all other sectors considered – double that of the automotive industry, twenty times that of mining and six times that of the financial services sector.
The very fact that something as prestigious as the WTTC would host an event in Mexico is also sending a powerful message to economies of the world… Mexico is here to stay and is a global leader in tourism. Having been to countless tourism events hosted in and by Mexico over the last 20 years, this was by far the most productive and forward thinking of the bunch. The WTTC has spearheaded global analysis of the economic impact of Travel & Tourism for over 20 years, and is dedicated to measuring the influence of this sector to the GDP (gross domestic product), income and employment in 181 countries. So to have Mexico stand tall amongst this crowd is indeed an accomplishment.
Unlike some events I’ve attended on tourism, this felt very intimate and real, not to mention the laundry list of heavy-hitters on the discussion panels and in attendance. The Summit was co-chaired by WTTC President & CEO David Scowsill and was highlighted by speakers like President Calderón, the Mexico Tourism Secretary, Gloria Guevara, Taleb Rifai, Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization, WTTC Chairman (and Chairman of the Executive Board of TUI AG-Europe’s leading travel group), Michael Frenzel, film director, actor and environmentalist Robert Redford, and the Mexican billionaire businessman and philanthropist Carlos Slim.
They all touched on (to varying degrees) the strength of Mexico’s economy. Stats show the Mexican economy has been growing at a sustainable rate of 3.5-5.5% over the past three years, numbers that President Calderón was more than happy to boast about (and I don’t blame him). Both Calderón and Secretary Guevara drilled it down to the direct industry GDP of Mexico’s Travel & Tourism, noting this particular sector expanded 58% between 1990 and 2011, while the total economy expanded 72%. Based on further data compiled by the WTTC, that number is expected to grow at an annual average of 4.4% over the next decade.
Those are powerful, positive numbers for not only Mexican destinations, resorts, airlines and tour operators, but compelling news for those in the travel business worldwide. It’s also a testament to the success of tackling security issues head on. It’s clear that Mexico’s efforts to educate the travel audience are gaining a foothold, and tourists are believing and understanding the message. And with an election just months away, a new president and a new administration will undoubtedly keep the ball rolling.
With the endless negative press about Mexico, you have to dig deep in the news to find the good stuff. But here, in this arena, at a global event, the good news seemed to finally be in spotlight. I felt lucky to have been a part of all of it and to have had the rare opportunity to learn from world and industry leaders. Keep in mind the reality of Mexico’s image problem, safety issues and other challenges weren’t pushed aside, but the panel discussions here were geared to be part of the solution. As a journalist, tourist and traveler, I embraced a forum that really addressed Mexico’s (and the world’s) position on tourism and its extraordinary impact on economies of all scales.
* This article was originally published on http://www.mexicotoday.org. Click for all Mexico’s current news.
August 22nd, 2012 at 6:03 pm
PR Newswire , Aug. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — From vegetable gardens and green houses to a water purification plant, the Barcelo Maya Beach Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico, is committed to the ecological preservation of its vibrant landscape. With that pledge, the AAA Four Diamond, all-inclusive resort is also dedicated to inspiring guests to embrace environmental sustainability practices by sharing its methods and operating standards.
White sand beaches, deep green foliage, bright flowers and crystal clear waters are hallmarks of the Riviera Maya that Barcelo Maya Beach Resort is dedicated to sustaining and but growing for current and future guests to experience. “We are deeply committed to our reputation as an eco-friendly vacation destination and our responsibility to preserving the stunning scenery of Riviera Maya,” said Claudio Zboznovits, vice president of Barcelo Hotels & Resorts sales and marketing in the U.S. During sea turtle season, May – October, the resort protects nesting sites with a wire fence and post signage to inform guests about the sea turtles. Once the eggs hatch, guests are encouraged to participate in the release of newborn turtles on the beach. Guided by Maya’s onsite environmental team, participants can assist the native loggerhead and green sea turtles make the journey from sand to sea. The resort’s green practices expand far beyond what guests see during their stay.
Treating water in filtration plants to be reused for irrigation, sorting trash, using energy-saving light bulbs and installing automatic light control in public areas are just a few elements of the resort’s overall sustainability efforts. The complex even has a 3,200-square-foot vegetable garden, “La Huerta del Chef,” where vegetables, herbs and 10 different types of chili peppers are grown. Additionally, a reverse-osmosis plant purifies drinking water, and an on-site nursery produces 60 percent of the plants used in local reforestation. Vacationers can also visit an on-site ecological information hut to learn about the care of mangrove swamps, reefs and, of course, sea turtles. Ideally located on Mexico’s eastern coast between the sizzle of Cancun and the intriguing Tulum ruins, Barcelo Maya Beach Resort welcomes visitors with 24 diverse dining options, 21 lively bars and lounges, 10 gigantic swimming pools, three entertainment theaters, two kid-friendly water parks, a 20,000-square-foot spa, and world class convention center. For more information, visit http://www.barcelo.com.
August 22nd, 2012 at 6:52 pm
During the inauguration of the Baja California Vine and Wine Museum, Mexican President Felipe Calderón remarked that the museum will also operate as a convention center that will trigger further economic and cultural activity in the Ensenada-Valle de Guadalupe region. He hoped that both national and foreign tourists would visit it and discover the region’s wine-making tradition, a deep source of pride for Mexico.
The new museum, built with $5.3 million in state and federal funds, is at the 81-kilometer marker of the road linking Tecate and Ensenada.*
Calderón noted that the museum required the combined efforts of the federal government, CONACYT, the state government, and Casa Cetto, with a total investment of 76 million pesos.
The president said that in order to support the industry, the Program to Support the Wine Industry (Proviti) was implemented this year, which will have a 50 million peso fund. The program will provide wine makers with access to support or financing of between 250,000 and 500,000 pesos to invest in production, investment and training projects, studies and consultancy.
The president’s visit coincided with Fiestas de la Vendimia, Baja California’s annual harvest celebration that [is now taking place and] includes concerts, dinners and wine tastings at the different wineries.* (see MexiData.info “Events”)
Modernization of Tecate-El Sauzal Wine Route Highway
On tour in the state of Baja California, President Calderón inaugurated three stretches of the modernization of the Tecate-El Sauzal highway, which passes through the state’s popular Valle de Guadalupe wine region.
The highway is now 12 meters wide, with two broad lanes and an emergency lane to enable people to drive easily. These measures are designed to reduce traveling times by an hour. The federal government’s investment in the modernization of this highway totaled nearly 540 million pesos.
The president remarked that in addition to creating jobs for the residents of Baja California, reconstruction of the highway will contribute to the development of local economic activities, such as tourism, fishing and the wine industry, particularly in the Valle de Guadalupe, which produces extraordinary wines that will now be able to be transported to Mexico City and the rest of the world more easily. This development of the local economy translates into opportunities for growth, well-being and prosperity.
During the current administration, several infrastructure works have been undertaken, including the Mexicali-San Felipe highway, the Ensenada highway linking up with the Tecate-El Sauzal highway, and the Tijuana-San Diego Border Crossing Checkpoint, scheduled for completion over the next few months, which will be one of the most modern in the world.
The president concluded by saying that during the six years of his government, over 21,000 km of highways have been built or modernized, nearly as much as highways built during the past three administrations together.
* Excerpted from the San Diego Union-Tribune, “Calderón Christens Baja Wine Museum,” Aug. 4, 2012, pg. B5
———-
Press Release: Presidency of the Republic, Ensenada, Baja California, Aug. 3, 2012; translation Presidency of the Republic
August 22nd, 2012 at 7:33 pm
Daily Flights from JFK Join U.S. Service from Miami and San Antonio as Mexico’s Second Largest Carrier continues to Impact the Airline Industry in the Americas PR Newswire
NEW YORK, Aug. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Interjet, Mexico’s second largest air carrier and a growing presence in the U.S.-Mexico market, today launched its first service from New York (JFK) to Mexico City. The daily flights add a third gateway city in the United States for Interjet, which already operates out of Miami and San Antonio.
Highly respected for its extensive service throughout Mexico, New York represents the airline’s sixth international hub. In addition to the three U.S. cities, Interjet flies to Guatemala, Havana, and San Jose, Costa Rica.
The JFK service departs from New York at 7:25am Monday through Friday and 10am on Saturday and Sunday. Return flights leave Mexico City at 4:40, arriving at JFK at 10:30 pm.
To celebrate the inaugural service, Interjet is offering a round-trip fare starting at $349 . This promotional offer is valid for travel as of August 2 nd, and it includes two suitcases up to 55 lbs each until August 31 st.
Interjet earned its reputation as one of Mexico’s most successful airlines based on numerous passenger-pleasing flight and service features. Interjet is known for its high quality service at competitively affordable prices as well as its excellent safety record. With 35 new A320 aircraft, the youngest fleet in the country, the airline has put the customer first with such decisions as removing 30 seats to create maximum comfort for 150 guests as well as serving complimentary meals and premium beverages during flights between Mexico City and New York. Interjet also offers transferable tickets, an appealing frequent flier loyalty program, in-flight entertainment program, an unrestricted 20 percent discount year-round for seniors and special amenities for female travelers, including women-only toilets on all airplanes. In contrast with other carriers, there is no extra charge for passengers to select seats or check up to 110 pounds of baggage per ticket. Interjet does not overbook its flights and has no hidden fees in the ticket purchase prices; the price offered by the airline is what the customer pays, including all taxes.
As it continues to broaden its presence in the international market, Interjet also has demonstrated its financial stability by continuing to invest in new equipment, recently completing the purchase of 20 Superjet 100 aircraft.
About Interjet
INTERJET is a 100% Mexican airline which, in December 2011, celebrated its 6th anniversary by fulfilling a corporate commitment to provide high-quality air travel at an affordable price. Its current fleet consists of 35 state-of-the-art Airbus A320 aircraft with the latest in aeronautical technology. They are also the only aircraft of their kind in Latin America that are equipped with external cameras, which allow the passengers to see live take-off and landing from their seats. Interjet operates over 150 daily flights on 42 business and leisure routes, covering 26 destinations in Mexico and six international destinations – Guatemala, Havana, San Antonio, Miami, San Jose (Costa Rica), and now, New York. Interjet’s network also offers excellent connections to other destinations at the airport in Mexico City. For further information and reservations, consult http://www.interjet.com or call 866-285-9525.
August 22nd, 2012 at 8:32 pm
For reservations and information, call toll free from the USA (800) 327-0200 or visit http://www.InterContinentalCozumel.com. Travelers to Cozumel enjoy non-stop service from Houston, Dallas and Chicago.
August 22nd, 2012 at 9:14 pm
by Ron Mader
The Guelaguetza is one of Mexico’s most important festivals. The ‘big days’ are two Mondays in late July when the regional dances are performed in the ginormous auditorio, but the atmosphere that pervades Oaxaca is a celebration that transcends the marathon performance. Today is the octava and the conclusion of the best Guelaguetza season in years.
You can get a taste of the event through livestreaming video at 10am and 5pm http://www.livestream.com/munioax
Can’t make it this year? Mark your calendars – July 22 and 29, 2013.
August 22nd, 2012 at 10:14 pm
Mexico Today News:
If you’re visiting Merida, be sure to spend some time in Celestun and check out the Hotel Xixim . This eco-friendly, luxury property is for those who truly want to disconnect from civilization. With 32 bungalows designed to be a part of the landscape, Xixim is one of more unique properties I have visited in Mexico. At home on a pristine and deserted stretch of beach, Xixim appeals to the adventure traveler who also enjoys the perks of a fine hotel.
You won’t find air conditioning or television in the rooms, but you will find two beautiful pools, a wellness center, an excellent bar and restaurant (complete with vegan and vegetarian menu items), and top notch service. I did an earlier post about Celestun and recently the following article was posted about the property on the Mexico Today site. Read more: