For a long time, the land of Mexico has been the meeting point for thousands of travelers who are interested in its history and most famous customs. To this is added the excellent reception by its people, who fill each person who visits their country with gestures. Starting from your warmest greeting, to a vibrant music and a diverse gastronomy, Mexicans have the gift of creating special moments and unforgettable memories. However, there are people who do not fully know the Mexican culture.
7 things you didn’t know about Mexican culture
Although its mariachi bands and paradise-like beaches are its main attractions, the country offers a greater diversity. Especially, a wide culture commanded by its gastronomy and an incredible history that will surprise more than one. It is not for nothing that Mexico is the most visited tourist destination in all of Latin America.
1. Casinos are very common
Games of chance are not forgotten in the Mexican land. Although there are casinos in different parts of the city, lately a new trend is emerging: online casinos. In essence, they offer you the same benefits, and even more, than traditional casinos.
Nevertheless, you must know The best reliable online casinos in Mexico, so that your money can be safe.
2. A cordial greeting is essential
In Mexico, great importance is attached to the simple act of greeting. Although for many it is something insignificant, for Mexicans it is a sign of respect and tradition. For this reason, for them it is vital to greet each person when you arrive at a place, as well as to say goodbye.
As for the shapes, they do not differ from other countries. Men mostly greet each other with a loving handshake or hug, and if there is a woman, a kiss on the cheek is normal.
3. Mexican culture is full of languages
Mexico is also known for being home to a huge community of indigenous people highly respected and recognized by the government. Specifically, it is a population of more than 15 million people, representing 15% of the total population.
What is relevant is that among all the indigenous communities, they speak a total of 68 different languages. Each one is recognized by the Mexican government, so it is part of both the history and culture of Mexico.
4. Mexico is a megadiverse country
Another of Mexico’s strengths is its vast biodiversity. Indeed, It is home to 70% of all species of flora and fauna in the world on its lands. This is a characteristic that only 11 other countries can boast, which adds added value to Mexican soil.
For the same reason, it is considered a “megadiverse” country, thanks to the enormous amount of life that exists in its lands.
5. Music everywhere
There is no doubt that we all know Mexico for being a country full of mariachis. In every corner of the country you can hear the vibrant and hot rhythms of the serenades. It is almost always live entertainment, forming part of Mexican culture for centuries.
It is even a practice that was recognized by Unesco as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Therefore, if you visit Mexico, it is almost certain that you will take a souvenir serenade.
6. The Day of the Dead
There is no holiday that they do not celebrate in Mexico. They even have their own way of doing it. One of the best known around the world is the Day of the Dead. What many know as Halloween, in Mexican culture is known as the Day of the Dead.
It is a festivity where all the people take to the streets and put sadness aside to pay homage to a loved one who has passed away. Generally, a ceremony is held in the family’s house, where they raise an altar or an offering full of candles, colorful flowers and objects that the deceased used frequently.
It is also very common to see the “catrinas”, which are typical Mexican skulls. Contrary to what is believed, They have a cheerful style, full of flowers and are accompanied by very colorful clothing.
7. Mexican culture is nothing without its gastronomy
Another of the most important points of Mexico is its extensive gastronomy. Nevertheless, there is one aspect that stands out among all, which is its popular chili. For a Mexican, the degree of spiciness of a food is not the same as that of the others. Therefore, you should be careful when you go to eat in a restaurant that offers these typical Mexican dishes.
In Mexican gastronomy there are many varieties of chilies, but the most popular are: the piquín chile, the jalapeño, the habanero and the chipotle. They are usually included in enchiladas, a folded or rolled corn tortilla that is covered in hot sauce and accompanied by chicken.