If you booked your flight tickets for Mexico, you’ve probably taken one of the best decisions of your life. Mexico is a land of gorgeous landscapes, colorful food, scenic beauty, thrilling adventure, intriguing traditions, lively people, action-packed festivities, famous music, and more. There is so much to do and see in Mexico that one trip cannot do justice. Well, even though Mexico is geographically located very close to the U.S. yet the culture of Mexico is vastly different. Some travel etiquettes you should take note when traveling to Mexico are:
Greet everyone
In Mexico, it is preferred that you greet everyone politely and well when you meet. Even if you arrive late in an event or gathering, it is expected of you to greet everyone individually. It is best to offer a handshake to men and with women an exchange of kiss on the cheek is preferable.
You can be late
Mexico is a land where time moves slowly and people are more relaxed relative to Americans. Here arriving late is the norm and you will often find people coming in as late as 30 minutes than the scheduled time. In fact, in Mexico, people find it polite to arrive late than early.
Don’t take first names
When in Mexico avoid addressing people by their first name unless you are specifically asked to do so or you happen to know them well. For first meetings, it is always advisable to use titles followed by the first surname.
Avoid bartering everywhere
If you think that you can barter your way through all markets, you are very wrong. In Mexico, bartering is possible in artisan markets and might get you a slight discount; however, the food vendors will not lower prices no matter how hard you try. So, use your skills, only if needed.
Blend in the slow vibe
The best and the worst part about Mexico is that everything here moves at a slow pace. So, to avoid getting frustrated it is best to blend in the slow vibe of the country. Try to not think too much and just enjoy the trip for what it brings.
Be friendly
Mexicans are known for their warm and friendly nature. Hence, it is also expected out of tourists to be polite, warm, and friendly towards the locals. Greet them well, speak politely, be helpful, and cordial, if needed.
Try to pick up some Spanish words
Though we understand, it is not possible to learn a new language so soon and that too only to visit. But it is good if you pick up a handful of easy words and languages before you book your flight tickets to Mexico. The locals do understand and speak English but you might face some language issues in many parts of the country. Also, your effort would be very appealing for the locals and would earn you respect and courtesy.
Leave an appropriate tip
Tipping is considered a courtesy act in Mexico and the amount of tip can vary per region and generally ranges from 10-20 percent.
These etiquette tips will come very handy when in Mexico. And once you booked your flight ticket, remember to take the travel protection plan from LatinOFare that will help you cover unexpected situations such as trip cancellations, trip interruption, trip delays, baggage delays, emergency medical services, etc. Also, it is best if you take the travel assistance program that will provide a lot of post-ticketing benefits.
