Traditional
Culture
 Mexicans
in general are friendly, humorous and helpful to visitors but
very private and even secretive, not trusting but trustworthy.
As a visitor you can get along with just a little spanish. A simple
'por favor' or 'buenos dias' can take you a long way in making
friends or getting work done. Mexicans are family oriented people
and regard relationships as the most important thing in life next
to religion and they are not afraid to show their emotions. Hence
it is advisable never to flirt with or say anything offensive
about a family member.
Please
note that additional info (prices, activities, etc) are found
to the right of this pages. 
Roman Catholicism is the prevailing religion
of most Mexicans. The power and position of the Roman Catholic
Church has been preeminent in much of the country's social history.
One should dress conservatively when visiting churches in Mexico.
Most Mexicans are friendly and polite. A handshake
is the customary greeting. Close friends hug or pat each other
on the back. Women kiss each other on the cheek. Local customs
and traditions are held in high esteem and should be respected.
Casual dress is acceptable in public however recommended that
women dress conservatively in smaller towns by avoiding clothing
that could draw attention. For business a more formal attire would
be appropriate. Alcohol and smoking is acceptable. Do not flaunt
your wealth as this could draw the attention of thieves.
Family
 Traditional
family ties remain very strong in Mexico. An invitation to a Mexican
home is quite an honor for an outsider, as a guest you will probably
be treated royally and enter a part of real Mexico which outsiders
know very little of. By enrolling for one of the language immersion
programs offered by spanish abroad, inc you have the option of
living with a host family. This is a wonderful experience and
the best way to learn and understand about the mexican culture,
beliefs, traditions language and food.
Although educational levels
in Mexico have improved substantially in recent decades, the country
still faces problems. Education is one of the Mexican government’s
highest priorities and is being decentralized from federal to
state authority in order to improve accountability.
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