Best things to do in Mexico with family in 2023
In this article, we will explore some of the must-see attractions in Mexico for travelers who want to discover the beauty and diversity of this amazing country. We will also share some tips and advice you the best things to do in Mexico to have a wonderful family trip.
Mexico is a fascinating and diverse country that offers a variety of attractions for travelers. Located in North America, Mexico is bordered by the United States, Guatemala, Belize, the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
Briefly about Mexico
- Country name: United Mexican States.
- National day: September 16, 1810
- Capital: Mexico City
- Currency: Mexican peso (Mex$).
- Religion: Christianity accounts for 89%, Protestantism accounts for 6%.
- Official languages: Spanish, English, Maya, Nahuati and some local languages of the indigenous people.
Located in North America, Mexico is bordered by the United States, Guatemala, Belize, the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. This country has a rich and complex history, influenced by many ancient civilizations such as the Olmec, Toltec, Teotihuacan, Zapotec, Maya and Aztec, as well as by Spanish colonization and independence movements.
It is the second most populous country in Latin America and the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world, with about 130 million people. Mexico is also a federal presidential republic with 31 states and a capital city, Mexico City.
Mexico is also a natural paradise, with a wide range of landscapes and ecosystems. it has mountains, volcanoes, deserts, rain-forests, beaches and islands that host a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Mexico is home to many endemic species, such as the axolotl, the quetzal and the jaguar. The country is also a top destination for ecotourism and adventure activities, such as hiking, rafting, diving and surfing.
Best time to travel to Mexico
The best time to travel to Mexico is during the dry season, from December to April. The average temperature is around 23°C, the sky is blue and there are no storms.
Because the dry season is the peak tourist season, so you may encounter crowded visitors, especially around Christmas, but Mexico is a large country so you can always find a way to escape the crowds.
Transportation in Mexico
Mexico has various modes of transportation that you can use to travel within the country. The most common means of transport is the bus (camiones), which can reach most large and small cities. Additionally, you can also travel by plane, taxi, car, bike or on foot depending on your needs and budget. Highways in Mexico are usually toll roads (autopistas de cuota) and the average speed limit is 110 km/h for cars and 95 km/h for buses and trucks.
Need a visa to enter Mexico
Most foreigners need a visa to enter Mexico, unless they are from one of the 69 countries that get visa-free travel to Mexico or they have a valid visa or permanent residence for certain other countries. You also need a tourist permit, which you can get online or at the border.
Remember that you have to always carry your valid passport when you cross the Mexican border.
Best things to do in Mexico with family in 2023
Must-see attractions in Mexico in 2023
- Chichen Itza, one of the new seven wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Chichén Itzá was a large pre-Columbian city built by the Maya people of the Terminal Classic period
- Zócalo, the main square of Mexico City and the site of many historical and cultural events
- Palace of Fine Arts, a stunning architectural masterpiece and a cultural center in Mexico City
- Chapultepec Castle, a former imperial palace and presidential residence that now houses the National Museum of History
- Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a Roman Catholic shrine and pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary
- Cozumel, an island paradise with coral reefs, white sand beaches and crystal clear water
- Day of the Dead, a colorful and festive celebration of life and death that takes place from October 31 to November 2
Some of the popular activities in Mexico
- Admire the monumental power of a pyramid such as Teotihuacan or Chichen Itza
- Learn about Mexico’s artisan traditions such as pottery, weaving, embroidery and silverwork
- Cycle Mexico City’s leafy neighborhoods such as Condesa, Roma and Coyoacán
- Learn to dance the salsa and danzón in clubs and plazas
- Float in subterranean cenotes (natural sinkholes) in Yucatán Peninsula
- Eat your fill of Mexican street food such as tacos, tortas, tamales and quesadillas
- Glide along the canals of floating Aztec gardens in Xochimilco
- Sip artisanal mezcal (a distilled alcoholic beverage made from agave) in Oaxaca
Some special must-try foods in Mexico
Mexico has a rich and diverse culinary culture that reflects its history, geography, and people. Some of the special foods in Mexico that you must-try are:
- Taco: A hand-held dish made of a small wheat or corn tortilla filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, salsa, and cilantro.
- Burrito: A large wheat tortilla wrapped around a filling of cooked beans, meat, rice, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sauces.
- Quesadilla: A grilled or fried corn or wheat tortilla with melted cheese and sometimes other fillings, such as chicken, mushrooms, or squash blossoms.
- Nachos: A snack or appetizer consisting of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, beans, jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
- Tamale: A steamed corn dough wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaf with a filling of meat, cheese, vegetables, or fruits.
- Fajita: A grilled dish of sliced meat (usually beef or chicken) and vegetables (such as onions and peppers) served on a sizzling platter with tortillas and condiments.
- Enchilada: A corn tortilla rolled around a filling of meat, cheese, beans, or vegetables and covered with a red or green chili sauce and cheese.
- Chili Con Carne: A spicy stew of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili peppers.
Tip to remember when in Mexico
- Peso is the official currency of Mexico and is also denoted as $ or Me$.
- Mexico is famous for its theft problem, so when traveling to Mexico you should pay attention.
- Mexicans are usually distant and quiet and do not like to communicate with tourists.
- Mexicans are very often late for appointments, so you have to be patient with them.
- When visiting a church in Mexico, you must be respectful, do not wear sunglasses and hats.
- You should ask the people at your hotel area about the security in the area and the areas to avoid.
Is it safe to travel to Mexico in 2023
The safety of traveling to Mexico in 2023 depends on several factors, such as the destination, the season, the activities, and the precautions taken by the traveler.
According to some sources, Mexico is generally safe to travel to, as long as you avoid certain no-go areas and follow basic safety tips. However, some areas may experience drug cartel violence, crime, or intimidation that could pose a risk to tourists. Therefore, it is advisable to check the latest travel advisories and warnings before planning your trip to Mexico.
If you are a travel enthusiast who loves to travel around the world, Mexico will surely be a favorite destination on your bucket-list. Plan your itinerary to explore Mexico and don’t forget to read the experiences in this article. Hope you have a wonderful vacation.
