Traveling to Mexico? Check Out These Sites!
Traveling to Mexico is more than beach-front resorts. Check out our list of surprising facts and fascinating, hidden wonders to visit throughout the country.
1. Hop-On Hop-Off Tours: A Perfect City Guide
Mexico’s Hop-On Hop-Off buses allow tourists to explore landmarks, from the Zócalo to Chapultepec Park. The routes cover top attractions, giving travelers the freedom to explore historic sites, museums and vibrant markets at their own pace. And the best part is that these bus tours allow you the freedom to hop off and explore any spot before rejoining the tour.
2. The World’s Largest Pyramid is in Mexico
While Egypt might be famous for its pyramids, did you know that Mexico is actually home to the world’s largest pyramid by volume? That’s right! It’s the Great Pyramid of Cholula in Puebla, and it’s a whopping 217 feet in height. This ancient structure is larger than Giza’s famous pyramids and holds rich historical significance as a cultural center for ancient civilizations.
3. Mexico Has 68 Official Languages
Though Spanish is the official language, Mexico recognizes 68 national languages, with many indigenous groups preserving their linguistic heritage. Languages like Nahuatl and Maya are widely spoken in regions across the country, emphasizing Mexico's rich cultural diversity.
4. Mexico’s Capital City Is Sinking
Mexico City, built on a former lake bed, sinks about 20 inches each year due to excessive groundwater pumping. This subsidence is a growing challenge for the city, causing concerns over infrastructure and historic building preservation.
5. It’s Home to a Hidden Beach Paradise
Playa del Amor, or the "Hidden Beach," is located on the Marieta Islands. This secluded beach has an open roof and crystal-clear waters. Accessible only by swimming through a tunnel, it offers a unique beach experience. And to make things even cooler? The beach was formed by volcanic activity.
6. The Largest Silver Producer in the World
If you’re in the market for some high-quality, gorgeous silver, look no further. Mexico is the leading producer of silver globally, with many mines located in the city of Zacatecas. This mineral wealth has played a significant role in the country’s history and continues to be a major part of its economy.
7. Mexico Invented Chocolate
The Olmecs, one of the earliest known Mesoamerican civilizations, are credited with being the first to cultivate cacao and create chocolate nearly 4,000 years ago. Centuries later, the Mayans believed chocolate to be the drink of the gods.
8. Tequila Originated in Mexico
To be labeled "tequila," the spirit must be made in the Mexican state of Jalisco or certain municipalities in nearby states. The production of tequila is legally protected. This is similar to how only champagne can only be considered genuine champagne if it comes specifically from the historical province of Champagne in the northeast of France.
9. Monarch Butterflies Migrate to Mexico
Each year, millions of monarch butterflies migrate from Canada and the United States to the forests of Michoacán, Mexico. This migration spans over 3,000 miles, and the butterflies' arrival is celebrated with festivals, making it a unique natural spectacle.
10. Mexico is Home to the World’s Largest Crystal Caves
The Naica Mine, also known as The Cave of the Crystals, is the largest crystal cave in the world. The largest crystals there measure 36 feet and can be found at a depth of 300 meters in the state of Chihuahua.
Traveling to Mexico soon? Avoid these foods to ensure you don't get sick on your vacation.