5 Reasons to Retire to Mexico

Posted on June 20, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

5 Reasons to Retire to Mexico is a contribution by Crystal Tost from Re/Max.

When trying to decide on the right country for retirement, you will find that there are many options available. Many countries can dispute the pros of retiring there. However, there are several reasons why many Canadians and Americans choose to retire to Mexico. In fact, here are five great reasons to call Mexico home after retiring.

Proximity

For those who currently reside in Canada and the United States, Mexico is a great retirement destination due to proximity. As part of North America, Mexico can easily be reached by car from any country. Moreover, flight routes are available between major destinations between the United States and Canada and Mexico, such as Cancun. Not only does this help to make the move easier, but it also makes it easier to travel back and forth to your home country to visit relatives and friends.

Cost of Living

Everything from real estate to groceries is cheaper in Mexico when compared to Canada and the United States. This means you can afford to purchase more luxurious accommodations while also enjoying the lifestyle you seek. Or, if you simply want to maintain your current lifestyle while making your dollars stretch further, living in Mexico can help make it happen. In addition, due to the country’s strong tourist economy, you can easily rent out your retirement property if you decide to head back to your home country for an extended stay.

Language and Culture

While Spanish and several native languages are the official languages of Mexico, many residents speak English, too. This is particularly true in the service industry and in those areas that are popular amongst tourist and expats such as Playa del Carmen. This can make the process of moving to the country, purchasing real estate and navigating through the country once becoming a resident a whole lot easier.

Of course, if you want to enjoy a wonderful cultural experience, you can also very easily choose a location that will allow you to submerge yourself entirely in the Mexican culture. The government system is similar to that in the United States and Canada, too. Couple that with the diversification of products and goods, the cultural experience is not too vastly different from what you are used to.

Healthcare

While the quality of healthcare provided will vary from one location to the next, healthcare standards are generally very high in Mexico. This is particularly true in the bigger towns and cities that are popular retirement locations. Here you can typically find doctors, dentists, hospitals and specialty medical providers. Not only do they offer high-quality services, they also do so at a fraction of the price you would pay back home. If that’s not enough to convince you, many of them also offer their services in English.

Lifestyle

With its wide range of topography and climates, you can very easily live whatever type of lifestyle you desire. Mexico is conductive to enjoying an active, outdoor lifestyle. But you can also enjoy living life at a leisurely pace. After all, the country has a laid-back vibe and warm and welcoming citizens. For those who want to retire in the Riviera Maya, they’re in for an amazing laidback lifestyle. Hit the beach every day and take a stroll amongst the lively coastal towns it offers.

Retire to Mexico Today

These are just five reasons to consider Mexico your retirement home. Spend those golden years in this wonderfully cultural country. Places such as the Riviera Maya are great expat retirement hubs. These are just a few of the many reasons almost 2 million Americans call Mexico home. If you want to spend your golden years sipping margaritas by the beach in a year-long warm climate, you should definitely retire to Mexico.

5 Apps for Expats in the Riviera Maya

Posted on June 13, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

In today’s technological world, living with apps is essential. Whether you’re at home, traveling or an expat abroad, there are some apps that are great for your day by day life. Especially for expats, some apps are great to get around a new city, overcome the language barrier or deciding where to go and what to do. Apps help us decide if we want to dine at a certain restaurant or not, or if we want to purchase a product or another. Here are some amazing apps that will help you and other expats feel more at ease in your new home.

DUOLINGO

This is the gift that keeps giving. This app is a great platform to practice and learn any language you want. If you’re living in Mexico and struggling to communicate on a daily basis, this app can teach you the basics of the Spanish language. Moreover, the app is completely free and you can choose as many languages to learn as you want. It teaches you vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling, and hearing. Its sections and quizzes at the end of each lesson help you stay on track

TripAdvisor

You’ve probably heard of TripAdvisor, and it is exactly as its name states. The app lets you read other customer reviews on certain places and companies. Before you head out to try a new restaurant in Playa del Carmen, you can check it out on the app and see what other people are saying about it. It’s also a great way to find out what the tourists like and where the locals are actually going. Customers share photos of the place or the menu. You won’t be surprised when arriving at a place or restaurant you want to visit. It’s a great app for expats before they get a good handle on all the places in their new home.

TripIt

You’ve moved to a new country and are eager to explore every given corner. TripIt is the one place to see and stock all your travel planes. The app is easy to use and rather intelligent. It lets you create a leading itinerary and gives you the opportunity to forward your documents to any travel companions. You can also create a user profile that can be shared with whomever you want. It allows you to sync your calendar, as well, to keep track of upcoming trips and dates. If you’ve got a departure flight, you can check it straight in the app. Any stress of traveling is gone with TripIt. It is efficient and smart.

Skyscanner

There was no way to avoid an actual flight purchasing app. Any expat knows that constantly looking for flights to go back home is essential. With Skyscanner you can search for the cheapest and most convenient flights available to your destination. For expats who want to travel back home but don’t have a set date, the app allows you to choose the destination and see the cheapest times of the year to fly. Expats can also set alarms for dates and places they are interested in traveling to. It’s an essential tool when planning a trip.

Navigation Apps

Google Maps provides maps all around the world and offers the option to get directions from any point of the city. It allows you to choose your transportation means, as well. You can see the times and routes it takes from one point to another by walking, riding bike, taking the bus or driving. The great thing about Google Maps is that it’s constantly updating its maps to add and remove roads as cities change. You can use it even when you are not connected to the Internet. However, for that to work you need to have your route planned out first.

Maps.me is another wonderful app because you can use the maps offline, working on the Open Street Map Data. You can also bookmark and share location using this app. It is compatible with all devices, making it easy to find and share certain location points with any friends or family in the area.

It’s rather easy to move to another country with today’s internet reach. Everyone has a smartphone today and access to wireless connection. Like these, there are many other apps that can be helpful in new places and when first trying to become familiar with your new city. We suggest you download as many as you can while you get a hang of moving around on your own.

What to Look for in a Retirement Home

Posted on May 28, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Life can hardly get any better than sitting on the beach enjoying the cool ocean breeze. The palm trees above are gently swaying in time with the Caribbean Sea’s gentle waves, slapping against the white sand beach. You are just about to delight your palate with your favorite beverage. Then you suddenly wake up to the sounds of trucks and loud pipes outside. You look up at your bedroom’s plain white ceiling and think, “I’m dreaming again”. This gets you thinking about retirement more than ever. Where will you invest in a retirement home? Well, if your dreams are any indications. It should be in the Caribbean. But, that’s not all, the question truly is, what should you look for in a retirement home?

Whatever you decide, we’re sure it won’t include listening to loud vehicles in the morning or waking up to the same old routine. Instead, it will be more like living in a permanent dream vacation. You will be in a place that will allow you to live and do the things you truly want for the rest of your days. But first, you need to find a location that accommodates your needs. Let us help you with some useful suggestions in what to look for in a retirement home. These are intended to provide an interim itinerary that can jumpstart your search.

Find a Location That Meets Your Expectations

If you are looking to be close enough to Playa del Carmen, without the hustle and bustle of the city’s endless action, then think about looking just outside the city’s central district. There are many surrounding communities that have easy access to the heart of Playa del Carmen, such as El Cielo. It’s easy to catch a cab, drive or walk to all of Playa del Carmen’s most popular places. You are close to shopping centers, restaurants and other daily attractions.

If you want to be near or in the middle of the action, choose a location that can offer direct access to amenities. You can step out onto Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue, or in Tulum’s hotel strip. This places you steps from the beach and turquoise waters. It is always suggested to briefly stay in the approximate area(s) you are thinking of purchasing in. That way you can offer more detailed information to your trusted real estate agent when discussing your ideal location and needed activities.

Set a Budget That You are Comfortable With

Determine an allotted dollar amount that won’t create pressure or a financial burden on your retirement budget. Avoid the need to constantly think that the cost doesn’t matter, because it’s your retirement. Many retirees lose focus on their planned itineraries when they first experience paradise. There are plenty of condos and homes that will meet, and even exceed, your wants and needs. If you can justify the extra expense or cost, then go for it. But remember, you can always upgrade further down the road, as well.

Is a Condo or a Free-Standing Home Better?

There are advantages to both a condo and a single dwelling. A stand-alone home offers more privacy and more room. And in most cases, it has yard space to do with as you wish. Having a single-family home usually has a garage and plenty of space to park more than one vehicle. But there are other factors to consider such as maintenance and upkeep, which is usually more than in one condo. When you are away for a period of time (if you are a retiree snowbird), you can’t just lock the door and leave. You have to make sure your home is secure, the yard is cared for, and the pool is take care of (where applicable).

A condo is usually a part of a bigger complex. Its exterior and common areas are part of the association’s responsibility (which you pay for, of course). You can leave your home for an extended time and all you need to do is lock the door. There will be people around upkeeping the property and its amenities. On the other hand, there is less privacy beyond your front door. Parking can be troublesome if you have more than one vehicle, as well. Depending on the complex, there is rarely any covered parking, unless you pay extra for it. These are things to consider when looking at both a condo and a free-standing home.

You Need a Real Estate Agent to Find Your Retirement Home

Nothing really happens until you find a qualified and trustworthy real estate agent. Many inexperienced retirees don’t take the time to research and find a reliable agent to guide them through the process. Especially when they’re doing it in a foreign country. When you start looking for an agent to represent you, make sure they are skilled in working with American and Canadian buyers and that they know the ins and outs of purchasing a home abroad.

Now it’s time to sit back and enjoy your golden years in paradise. Whether you’re looking for a laidback lifestyle in Tulum or an upbeat, activity-packed adventure in Playa del Carmen, it’s up to you to decide what you want from your retirement.

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season in the Riviera Maya

Posted on May 15, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Hurricane season is around the corner in the Riviera Maya. Strictly speaking, the season kicks off in June and ends in November. But you shouldn’t be alarmed. A major hurricane hasn’t hit the area since Wilma in 2005. It never hurts to be prepared, however, in case things get tough. And although most hurricanes occur in the area during August and September, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

We know what you’re thinking…how can I ever actually be prepared for a hurricane? Trust us on this one; there are many ways you can prepare beforehand. You might have never given this much thought because you didn’t need to, but it’s best to keep this things in mind and be ready for anything.

In fact, preparing for hurricane season is easier than you might think. If you follow these next five steps, you and your family should be safe.

PROTECT YOUR HOME

Photo by DAVE GATLEY/FEMA News Photo

It’s important to protect your home from a hurricane. This means installing hurricane-proof windows and doors, and maybe even a roof. At the very least, get roof clips. If it’s possible, having an underground room is essential in case of an emergency. If you are building, use concrete to prevent strong winds and rain from ruining your house.

HAVE AN EVACUATION PLAN

You may never need it; but in case you do, it’s best your family plans out an evacuation route. Hurricanes will hardly warn you in advance, so it’s good to be prepared. Evacuation plans require thorough thinking and finding a safe place to evacuate to when needed.

GET ENOUGH SUPPLIES

Once a hurricane hits, there will most likely be no water or food. Supplies will be scarce everywhere, so you’ll want to have supplies and an emergency kit in your house. Buy non-perishable, canned food in advance and have at least a few extra garrafones (water jugs) laying around in case of emergency. Medical aide and supplies will be scarce, too, so get a first aid kit. And don’t forget extra batteries and flashlights in case electricity is cut out for a while.

CHECK YOUR HURRICANE SEASON INSURANCE

Homeowners often overlook this, but it is equally as important. Making sure you have the necessary insurance to cover you in case of a hurricane will save you money down the road. This applies both for medical insurance, as well as for your house, car, and belongings.

GET YOUR CONTACTS AND ELECTRONICS IN ORDER

If antennas drop, there won’t be any way to reach other people. But in case they’re still working, it’s best to have your contacts and electronics in order. Make sure you have extra non-plug batteries at hand to charge your phones or tablets in case you need to reach out to emergency services or other friends and family.

There are many more things to keep in mind when you live in the Riviera Maya and hurricane season comes around. While nothing will happen, most likely, it never hurts to be prepared. Make sure to be constantly checking the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) for updates about hurricanes and cyclones. And as long as the sun is out in Playa del Carmen, get out there and enjoy this beautiful paradise you call home.

Bacalar: The Must-See Pueblo Magico of Quintana Roo

Posted on May 7, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

We are certain that the golden years are meant to be enjoyed relaxing. That is why when retiring to the gorgeous beach town of Playa del Carmen, taking day trips to visit other areas of the Riviera Maya is a must. Bacalar, for example, is a great place to start.

Seven Shades of Blue

Four open cenotes form the seven-color lagoon of Bacalar. These are waterholes that join the sea through mangroves. You could stand at the edge of the lagoon and actually count the seven different shades of blue the lagoon has. It stays true to its name. This Pueblo Magico is just a 3-hour drive south of Playa del Carmen. That’s why it is perfect for a one-day trip getaway. However, if you’re not too keen on driving back, there are plenty of options for accommodation by the lagoon that are magical to say the least.

In fact, we highly recommend you stay overnight on a weekend. The lagoon is at its most beautiful during and after the sun sets. The light of the sun going down highlights the seven shades of the lagoon, making it a sight to behold. Don’t forget to pack your camera to capture this amazing moment.

If you plan on doing an overnight trip, take your time stopping by some of the towns along the way to see the best of the Yucatan Peninsula. We highly recommend you stop for breakfast at the market in Felipe Carrillo Puerto. Once at the lagoon, and depending on whether you stay overnight or not, you can rent a kayak or a paddleboard to enjoy the lagoon from within. It’s a great way to explore the lagoon. There are also catamaran and boat rides that can take you around the lagoon for approximately 500 Mexican pesos.

Bacalar’s Deep Cenote Azul

Bacalar is also home to the Cenote Azul–one of the deepest cenotes in the area. It has an approximate diameter of 200 meters and 90 meters of depth. It is pitch black but makes for a great swimming experience. Visitors can spot the cenote all the way from the highway, as well as its surrounding lush Mayan jungle.

The waters in Bacalar are translucent and very blue. They are best enjoyed from a lagoon-edge swing or from the pier. There are plenty of places to rent a paddleboard or kayaks, although it is best to go in the morning when the waters are truly calm.

Pubelo Magico is a correct description of this gorgeous little town just 30 minutes from the city of Chetumal. Bacalar is a great place for snorkeling and exploring shades of blue you’ve only dreamed of before. And the culinary experience doesn’t hurt, either. While there, also take a tour of the Fuerte de San Felipe, an old fort built to keep pirates away from the town.

Bacalar is just a car ride away from some of the most sought-after retirement spots in Latin America. Tulum and Playa del Carmen are perfect for anyone planning to enjoy their golden years under the sun with a margarita or beer in hand.

And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!

Cenote Ik Kil – The Most Photographed Cenote In Mexico

Posted on April 3, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

This could potentially be the most beautiful cenote, not only in Mexico but the whole world. Cenote Ik Kil is located in a close proximity to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza – just off the highway to Valladolid. Cenote Ik Kil is located in the Yucatan Peninsula, which is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes away from Playa del Carmen and under 2 hours from Tulum. This cenote is unique because of all its vines and plants that hang down into the water.

Cenote Ik Kil Opening Hours:

8:00am to 5:00pm

Entrance Fee:

Adults: 70 MXN or $5.00 USD

Children 35 MXN or $2.50 USD

Address:

Highway 188, Km 122

If you want to swim in the cenote, you will have to climb down 26 meters to reach the water, which is 40 meters deep. If you would like to spend a few days here, there are some accommodations close by. There is also a delicious restaurant onsite where you can taste the local cuisine. The restaurant is included in many tour options, but if you come here without a tour you can pay $160 pesos to access the restaurant. There are around 11 different options for you to choose from, including fried fish and fruit.

This cenote is great for the adventurists mainly because you can choose to walk up a few extra steps and jump into the cenote a few feet above. Don’t worry, the water is at a great temperature to feel refreshed. There is also a lifeguard on duty for safety reasons. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the rush. There are many great places to take pictures, so make sure you bring your camera.

Each swimmer is required to take a shower before they enter the cenote. This is to keep the cenote clean. There are lockers to store all your belongings while you are swimming too.

Tulum’s Ever-Increasing Choices for Dining

Posted on March 22, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

With Tulum’s ever-increasing popularity as being a vacation destination, the demand for more restaurants and bar & grills will be on the rise as well. Travelers like to feast on local cuisines prepared with homegrown spices, vegetables, and fresh meats. Top Chefs are coming from all over Mexico as well as the world to show off their culinary talents. Tulum’s dining scene is a perfect choice for a variety of ambiances, exotic dishes, and tropical beverages. Tulum’s cuisines tend to offer a flavor and preparation style all its own.

A delicious dining spot to begin your day: Ki’bok Café Gourmet

Let’s begin with the first thing most people want in the morning and that is their java. Ki’bok Café Gourmet is a bit rustic but fits perfectly into its surroundings. The tree trunk poles support the handcrafted – wood built covering that exposes its open-air storefront. Sitting curbside, this simple but novel cafe offers crafted espressos. Also, brewed coffees from the finest organic ingredients grown in the area’s rich soil. Ki’bok also offers freshly prepared pastries and a lighter menu selection.

Most vacationers tend to wander towards the white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise Caribbean water. Tulum’s Sur 15 – from Mexico’s Federal Highway 307 to Av. Coba that turns into Sur 15, travels along the Riviera Maya’s scenic coastline. Here is where most all the waterside eateries reside. There are plenty to choose from and they all offer great views, fabulous food and designer drinks. Just point yourself in any direction along the beach and you will surely find a great place.

Zamas – The Restaurant at Zamas

There is one particular restaurant connected to a boutique hotel that was originally a coconut plantation. The Restaurant at Zamas offers many exquisite reasons to visit. This palapa style eatery offers several earthy floorings to choose from. You can bury your toes in the sand, sit up at the bar with a solid surface beneath you or relax at a table that sits on aged wooden planks. The surroundings are simple but elegant enough to satisfy any dining occasion. You can enjoy a midday appetizer or have a complete lunch. Their dinner menu includes traditional flavors with the finest local ingredients from land to sea. It’s also a perfect place to kick back with friends, family or spend the day solo enjoying what the Riviera Maya has to offer.

A notable dining experience at Arca

When evening arrives and just a few minutes away from Zamas, one of Tulum’s more notable dining experiences happens at Arca. Nestled against the Caribbean Sea and positioned amongst the jungle, makes this restaurant a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Its unique culinary entrées are chef selected daily. Choose from 5 to 6 specialty dishes with complementing sides, add an appetizer and a dessert if there is room. Arca also offers food and beverage through the day, but dining hours take precedence.

The aforementioned restaurants are just a few of many places that serve fabulous food and thirst quenching drinks. Just north of Zamas and still on the beach is Pancho Villa and to the south is Hartwood. Both eateries boast a four-star and above rating. Downtown Tulum also possesses plenty of culinary establishments. Azafran serves traditional style cuisine during breakfast and lunch hours. Sale & Pepe is located at the main intersection and is known for their pizza and other Italian dishes.

No matter where you go in Tulum, there will always be a place that will delight even the most discerning palates. Choose an atmosphere, decide on a flavor of food and drink. Then, let Tulum’s ambiance sweep you away for an experience that you will remember for a lifetime. Just imagine living in a place where dreams can come true. Think Mexico’s Riviera Maya!

Valentine’s Day 2018 in the Riviera Maya

Posted on February 14, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Valentine’s Day is here! And we prepared a list of cool activities to enjoy this special day with your partner and your friends. Valentine’s day is an extremely popular celebration, so make your plans early and reserve ASAP.

Do not worry if your budget is limited! Our options include an affordable, a medium range and a more expensive plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Here are some ideas to have a wonderful Valentine’s Day:

Picnic at Xcacel-Xcacelito

Bring your own food and beverage and enjoy the best beach in the Riviera Maya, Xcacel. This is a favorite destination among locals and visitors alike. Also, its chilled atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings will let you and your companion feel connected.

Keep in mind that the amenities are quite basic, so you need to bring everything you need: food, drinks, chairs or blankets, and umbrella, etc. as there is not a shop or restaurant in the area. This natural reserve is ideal for a romantic brunch or lunchs, as they close the beach at 5 pm.

Romantic dinner in a Romantic Restaurant

There are so many options to have a romantic Valentine’s day dinner in the Riviera Maya, it is really a matter of budget and personal taste. However, we picked the most popular Romantic restaurant in the Riviera Maya: Pavo Real by the Sea.

This beachfront restaurant has excellent reviews, and a good mix of international, vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant has put on a special menu for Valentine’s day, with a cost of 55 USD + 15% tip per person.

Fun day at a Catamaran in Puerto Aventuras

$$$

Surprise your loved one with a catamaran and snorkel tour, that includes an open bar, food and all the fun you can have. This service is provided by Catamaya and it departs from Puerto Aventuras, for a 4 hour tour full of fun and sun.

The tour is rated as one of the best things to do in Puerto Aventuras, so we are sure you’ll love the views to the Caribbean, the swaying of the boat and everything else! The price for this tour is $100 USD per person, and this include a national open bar and food.

So, which option would you pick? Do you have big plans for Valentine’s day? Please let us know about your Valentine’s, or if we are missing a cool restaurant or an extremely romantic experience in the Riviera Maya.

Happy Valentine’s! From our friends at Let’s retire in Mexico!

3 Cool Properties to Book on Airbnb While Visiting the Riviera Maya

Posted on February 7, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

If you want to make your visit an unique and unforgettable experience have a look at these amazing Airbnb properties in the Riviera Maya.

Having an unforgettable holiday starts by choosing the right place to stay. Somewhere you can chill, enjoy and impress your friends with lots of photographs. Airbnb is a popular choice for people wanting to have a more personalized stay, different from the all inclusive hotels.

If you have ever considered this option, we have handpicked some cool properties to stay.

So, have a look at the ideal Airbnb properties for:

The Nature Lover

This property is nestled in the Mayan jungle, minutes away from Akumal. As a result, it will provide with a private haven with easy access to all the attractions in the area. What makes it so special is not only its strong natural elegance, but also the access to your own cenote just steps away.

Nature is to be found everywhere: the jungle, the exotic flowers growing wildly all over will be an unforgettable experience. Also, the Yucatan Peninsula is home to thousands of colorful birds endemic to the area. You can easily observe these birds from the many open areas in this house.

The Tree-Hugger

If you are all into preserving nature, this is the place for you! This property is nestled in Akumal, surrounded by the jungle. In addition, all the buildings are made of superadobe to ensure a cool and quiet building that would withstand hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural disasters.

This property is minutes away from Akumal beach and has easy access to everything the Riviera Maya has to offer.

The Beach bum

Everyone likes the beach! If you want to get a room where you can hear the waves and be one with the coast, this might be the ideal location for your beach holiday. This property in Tulum offers a yurt with all modern amenities, and only steps away from the caribbean.

So, Which one would you pick? We love them all, and are planning to visit some of them very soon! We would love to hear about you, do you like rustic properties, luxurious, unique? Let us know in the comments section.

Mexican Food – A Unique and Tasty Experience

Posted on January 31, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Finding someone – anyone, who doesn’t like Mexican food is a rather difficult task. One of Mexico’s biggest contributions to the world is its culinary delights! Everyone in North America knows how delicious Mexican food is. Can you think of very many places that you have visited where you can’t get Mexican food? And we are not talking Taco Bell. Mexican food isn’t just tacos, burritos and tamales. It also includes fully prepared dishes that use fresh fish, pork and chicken as the main ingredient/course.

“Tastes great and is good for you!”

Mexico is noted on CNN’s Top 10 World-Best-Food list. CNN Travel boast that they “Celebrate the best cultural foods and lambaste the others”. Mexico’s unique cuisine is not only tasty, but quite healthy as well. By using such ingredients as peppers, avocados, limes and plenty of beans provide you with an abundance of antioxidants, proteins and other nourishing vitamins and minerals. It “Tastes great and is good for you!” What more do you need?

Anyone who hasn’t had the opportunity to try ‘real’ authentic Mexican dishes are missing out. You won’t get them from corporate chains or fast food joints. You need to search out places that are not so popular or not-so fancy looking buildings. Although, the best option is to visit Mexico itself. Mexican families who own or operate restaurants are the ones who usually prepare the most unique and authentic Mexican food.

Delicious dishes some people haven’t tried

CNN Travel site rated Tacos – soft shell, and Fajitas – mixed meats, being among India’s Masala Dosa (crepes), the UK’s Fish & Chips and Pecking Duck from China as some of the best foods in the world. However, Mexico has many prepared foods that most people have never tried let alone heard of. Such dishes as:

Chilaquiles – a breakfast dish that consist of fried corn tortillas, chili peppers, eggs and chicken served with a cheese and sour cream topping.
Pozole is a soup that is served with a broth that has chicken, hominy and plenty of herbs and spices. It is topped with radishes, onion, lime and chili.
Chile en Nogada is one of Mexico’s most patriotic dishes that displays the colors of Mexico’s flag. It is a Poblano pepper stuffed with a variety of ingredients that is well known to the region.
Enchiladas are one of the favorite dishes for visitors to Mexico. They are corn tortillas stuffed with your choice of meats, beans, rice and vegetables top with a green or red sauce and cheese.
Mole (pronounced Mol-eh’), is a sauce that is made up of approximately 20 ingredients that include Mole Poblano chili. It is a deep brown in color and is poured over a variety of prepared foods.

The above are only a few popular dishes that are “Must try” cuisines. The more common Mexican foods we are familiar with are tamales, tostados and guacamole. Mexico uses all the food groups to create their delicious dishes. In addition, poultry, pork and seafood seem to be the most popular choices.

Some history about Mexican food

Mexico’s world renowned cookeries started out over 7,000 years ago. Several Mesoamerican communities – tribes such as the Mayans, Olmec, Huastec, Zapotec and Purepecha to mention a few – are responsible for these now favorite cuisines. The Aztec Empire brought all these multi-ethnic societies together along with their culinary creations. Even though wheat and rice where introduced to Mexico’s culture, corn and chili peppers stayed as the main ingredients.

Enjoying authentic Mexican food either abroad or in your home town, its a unique and tasty experience. Every cuisine has a complimentary cordial that accents the experience. Mexico also has several adult beverages that are very popular and that’s cerveza – beer, and tequila. Add all these elements together, along with the colorful ambience that the Mexico’s culture brings and you have a perfect dining experience. “Disfruta!” (Enjoy).