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Any person traveling to Mexico from another country should keep in mind that customs and values in Mexico may not be exactly the same as they are at home. If you understand the differences between cultures and treat people with respect, you will ensure a great vacation surrounded by some of the kindest and most pleasant people in the world.

The Spanish language has two forms of the pronoun "you". There is the informal "tu" (pronounced "too") and the formal "usted" (pronounced "Oo-sted"). When addressing a stranger or an acquaintance, it is usually best to use "usted" and its corresponding verb form. Wait for whomever you're speaking with to switch to the familiar before you begin addressing them in this way. This shows respect and more often than not, Mexicans will establish the more friendly, informal more quickly when you show them respect to begin with.

If you don't speak Spanish and the person you're dealing with doesn't speak English, it is best to keep calm and not get flustered. Before you go, learn a few phrases that will allow you to establish that you don't speak Spanish and that you'll need someone to help you translate. Most businesses in Mexican resort cities have at least more then one bilingual employee, but don't go into a store expecting all their employees to speak your language. Remember that you are in a foreign country and it is not their duty to speak your language. If there is nobody there who speaks English, speaking in a louder voice won't help. Try hand gestures to get your point across. If you're going to be taking a taxi, carry a map with you to point out where you're going in case the driver doesn't understand you. Above all, remain calm and polite. Usually you can get your point across despite not speaking the language. Visit our Helpful Spanish Phrases page to learn some of the most useful Spanish words and phrases.

The Mexican people value the family above all else. Many times business is always secondary to family. Because of this, the Mexican people have lunch breaks in the middle of the day and often close their shops early in the day (by American standards) so that they can spend more time at home. Shops will close at their closing times and the owners and workers will head for home to be with their families.

Due to the value that Mexicans place on the family, there are many family oriented restaurants throughout Mexico. Unlike some upscale restaurants in the United States and Europe which tend to frown on young children, many fancy restaurants in Mexico welcome families with children. If you'll be traveling with young children, don't hesitate to take them to a nice restaurant.

Greetings are more formal in Mexico than in the United States. If you're a man, use a handshake when greeting other men, or when greeting a woman for the first time. If the woman is a friend or acquaintance, a kiss on the cheek is customary. If you're a woman, a handshake will do for first meetings of both men and women, but with friends and acquaintances, both men and women, a handshake and a kiss on the cheek. It may feel awkward at first, but remember that it seems perfectly natural to the Mexican people.

Should you be invited to visit a Mexican home for dinner, drinks, or just to visit, understand that this is quite an honor no matter how humble the home is. It is customary to bring a small gift such as a bottle of wine or flowers to give to your host. It is best not to discuss business or money in these private settings. Better topics would be family, friends, or how lovely their city is. By showing that you take an interest in their values and their culture, you will earn their trust and admiration.

When dining out with a Mexican family, it is common for them to treat. Though you should offer to pay, it is not likely that they will concede and let you buy dinner. It is best to graciously accept their offer but insist on paying for drinks and tip, or to offer to take them out to dinner on a later date to return the favor. In general, it is best to avoid money as an issue in Mexico.

In dealing with strangers, whether they be a taxi driver, a store owner or a hotel desk clerk, it is always best to be polite and courteous. Remember that you are a guest in their country and that their values are different. While they'll gladly accept the money you throw around, they won't go out of their way to provide excellent service. The best way to get excellent service in Mexico is to show respect, courtesy and manners to everyone you deal with.

If you are from a country where nude or topless beaches are common, you should know that most Mexican beaches aren't so liberal. Always where a bathing suit. Bikinis are fine for women, but don't go topless on public beaches.

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