In Mexico, it is possible to explore canyons, cloud forests, palm-fringed beaches, world-class museums and galleries. A leisurely wander around the streets of Oaxaca, San Cristóbal or Mérida can be an absolute delight – listening to the live music in the square and soaking up the ambience.

 

The hard-working Mexicans are congenial and welcoming people. Out of a total population of 105 million, nearly 30 percent are indigenous whilst 60 percent are mestizos (fusion of indigenous and European blood). They are great fans of pyrotechnics and incorporate fireworks whenever possible into the numerous celebrations.

 

Mexicans have the greatest respect towards death. They strongly believe in afterlife and they expect to meet their loved ones during the Day of the Dead celebrations. Altars in homes are adorned with goods that were enjoyed by departed family members such as cigars, tequila and chocolate. Miniature skeletons and papier mâché life-sized devils and skulls are also very much in evidence.

 

A variety of cuisine and cooking methods can be found throughout Mexico. The country is renowned for its fresh seafood such as ceviche (white fish marinated in lime juice), conch, octopus and shrimp. Common meat dishes are shredded beef and barbecued goat.

 

Mexico’s earliest and most fascinating civilizations were that of the Maya; its people occupied the Yucatan peninsula, as well as Chiapas and other parts of Central America. There are three main centres of Maya civilization in Mexico; Palenque, Chichén Itzá and Uxmal. The pyramids here rival those found in Egypt.

Mexico does offer some interesting flora and fauna, which are found in the more remote corners of the country. The Yucatán peninsula is a breeding ground for sea turtles and the coral reef boasts an impressive marine life.  Celestún also on the Yucatán peninsula, is a prime spot for observing flamingos. 

 

The majority of tourism comes from North America and is focused on four developed and commercial coastal resorts.  The discerning European traveller interested in history, culture and wildlife can thus enjoy other parts of the country in relative peace.  

 

Day of the Dead (all over Mexico, November)
This is a two-day festival celebrating the reunion of living relatives with their dear departed. Festivities include colourful costumes, skeletons on stilts, parties in cemeteries and mariachi bands.

 

Mexico at a glance

• Stunning pyramids at historic sites throughout the country including Palenque, a magical, jungle-enshrouded Maya city.
• Mexico has many UNESCO World Heritage Cities and Sites including; Mexico City historic centre, Oaxaca (and Monte Albán), Campeche and Uxmal.
• Charming colonial cities such as Oaxaca and Mérida.
• Caribbean beaches – coral reefs, turquoise water and long stretches of sand.
• Good to visit all year round, though coastal and low-lying regions, especially in the southern half of the country, are hot and humid from May to September (period of highest rainfall across the whole country). Interior of country more temperate – can be chilly in the north and central highlands between November and February.
• July, August, mid-December to early January and Easter are peak season months for Mexicans and overseas travellers.
• Character and comfortable boutique hotels in most locations
• Vibrant arts, music and dance scene.
• Convenient internal flights to reduce travel time between destinations.

Prices start from £3,746 for a 16 night itinerary