How to get the travel bug – Part 4
Be a traveler, not a tourist in Mexico.
Many people who travel to resort destinations in Mexico with the hopes of experiencing the Mexican culture end up leaving with a false sense of what the real Mexican culture is like. Many of the resort hotels and resort communities cater to the wealthy international tourist by providing some of the common amenities that these foreign tourists are accustomed to, such as choices of food. Bar hopping, dining and mingling with groups of other foreign tourists does not provide the opportunity to really experience what the Mexican culture has to offer. Just because you can walk down to a Mexican market and buy a few Mexican souvenirs and speak in Spanish, does not necessarily mean you are experiencing the real Mexican culture! This is where the difference between a traveler and a tourist begins.
A tourist may practice their Spanish with the local merchants, they may see some of the historical landmarks, and they may even experience some of the local cuisine. However, they are still traveling around with other groups of foreigners and in many cases on guided tours. Yet for the most part, these activities are usually experienced in or nearby the international tourist hotspots which cater to the foreign tourist with the hopes that they will spend their money!
A traveler is much different from a tourist and can experience the real Mexican way of life. A traveler will immerse themselves in the rich Mexican culture. The best way to accomplish this task is to learn Spanish fluently or to be at least conversational. Another way is to befriend a Mexican, which can be easy due to the internet and online instant message programs. There are also community organizations that support international exchange programs such as Kiwanis. By way of these clubs and organizations a short living arrangement can be organized with a Mexican family. There are also student exchange programs between colleges and universities.
By spending time with the friendly Mexicans, you can easily observe their way of thinking, their social interactions and traditional customs. Take the time to travel during a Mexican holiday. The decorations and religiously rooted celebrations and parades are wonderful ways to participate in the local culture. Two great holidays to visit Mexico are during El dia de los muertos’ (day of the dead) and Christmas. Dia de los muertos is celebrated on the first two days of November.
So the only way to experience the true Mexican culture is to spend it with the people. Stay away from international hotspots and visit places where the locals frequent. A true traveler will venture off the beaten path.
Tags: Instant Message, Living Arrangement, Resort Hotels