Holiday in Mexico

Cookiemobsta asked:


I’m a college student, and I’m going to be studying abroad in Mexico for a semester. What is the easiest way to deal with money there? It seems that the cheapest way is to just use a credit card as much as possible (there is a fee for using a credit card, but there is also a fee for using an ATM or getting a wire transfer), but I’m wondering if it might make sense to convert a good amount of money at a bank or currency exchange in the states before going to Mexico, or if the exchange rate there would be as significant as the fee of a credit card or whatever. Can anybody help me?

Also, any tips in general about living in Mexico are appreciated. I’ve taken a preparation course and done some reading, so advice such as “Don’t drink the water” is rather redundant, but if you have some little-known advice, I’d appreciate it.
Thanks!

Breanna

PagesLa.com asked:


Mexican cuisine has long been a favorite throughout the United States. In areas that have a high Latina population such as Los Angeles County, the popularity explodes with Mexican catering in Los Angeles and surrounding areas.

With Latinas making up approximately 45% of the population of Los Angeles County, the region has seen a strong ethnic influence not only in L.A., but in neighboring areas as well. However, the large concentration of Latinas in L.A. County bears the distinction of being the largest ethic group in the region.

The typical Hispanic household consists of 5.3 people. This is a household that has a Spanish dominant adult. This is in sharp contrast to the general market household that averages just 3.5 people.

These large numbers give the Hispanic community some muscle in being a primary influential factor in Los Angeles County. Spanish is an extremely popular language and other areas have been impacted such as the food and handcrafts.

In fact, L.A. is the second largest Mexican city in the world. Probably the largest and best known Hispanic community in Los Angeles is East L.A.

One of the most notable things is the strength and commitment to family that the Hispanic community holds. But it does not stop there. They have a love for their community as well and will protect and defend it in adversarial times.

For instance, in 1992, during the Rodney King riots, South Central was being burned to the ground. In East L.A. though, it was a different story. First and second generation Hispanics stood up to the riots and defended their neighborhood, their community and were able to keep it relatively intact.

With such notability, the large Hispanic population gives way to many rich cultural landmarks in Los Angeles. The El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Park is one such landmark. This 44 acre park features the oldest existing residence in the city, Avila Adobe, which was built by rancher Don Francisco Avila in 1818.

There is also the Merced Theatre, Pico House, statue of Felipe de Neve who is the founder of Los Angeles and the Mexican Cultural Center.

As the strong Hispanic influence seems to make for an abundance of Mexican restaurants and catering companies in the area, many Hispanics will tell you that there is a distinct difference between American Mexican food and traditional Mexican food.

Because of the demographic in Los Angeles county, the area is treated to a great many authentic Mexican restaurants and catering companies. Weddings, parties and other special events can get the full authentic Mexican treatment with traditional menus of Mexican cuisine.

If you are looking for a rich cultural experience with a spicy south of the border flair, then Los Angeles County is the place to go. Their rich heritage has much to offer and you can get a little peek into history.

From Mexican culture to Mexican catering, Los Angeles has much to offer in so many areas, but for the Hispanic community it offers even more.

We invite you to visit our online Hispanic community directory, and get more information about this rich cultural experience, get involved, and take advantage of our resources available.



Colin

michael Webster asked:


 

By Michael Webster: Investigative Reporter May 23, 2008 12:00 p.m. PDT

An anonymous e-mail has surfaced and is spreading like wild fire on both sides of the border. The e-mail warning predicts that this weekend will be the “bloodiest and deadliest” in the city’s history.

The e-mail has alarmed Juárez Mexico police officials. Juarez is the city just across the river from El Paso Texas. Police officials are issuing an alert and a call for Juarez residents to stay calm, and El Pasoans to cancel any plans they may have across the border for this long Labor day week end. Many critics of the Bush administration find it ironic that the Mexican officials issue a warning to Americans yet the U.S. Government remains silent on the matter.

Five bodies wrapped in blankets have been found today in a busy downtown Juarez area near Prolongación Vicente Guerrero and Antonio J. Bermudez streets.

The identified bodies have yet to be described by police as to approximate age’s race or sex. The bodies were found along with two decapitated heads with a message allegedly written by drug traffickers. Juarez police have yet to release details about the message. But it is believed to be a warning and more threats.

As the death count in Juárez mounts, residents on both sides of the border now are fearful of traveling to Juarez and many have canceled any such plans.

“We ask the community to maintain calm and exercise security measures for themselves and their family, but we ask that they do not panic,” public safety secretary Roberto Orduña Cruz said in a statement.

Orduña said that the “threat” was being taken seriously but that residents should go about their regular business.

Several versions of the e-mail were in circulation Thursday, including one with an English translation that warned residents to stay in their homes, stay out of nightclubs and avoid major streets if traveling during the day.

“There will be shootings and executions throughout the city in what is being called ‘La Limpia’ (the cleansing) in response to threats by the ‘Juárez drug cartel’ or ‘La Linea,’ ” the e-mail stated in Spanish.

La Linea is reputed to be a “line” of corrupt police officers protecting drug traffickers. Dozens of Juarez police officers have been among the more than 300 homicides in Juárez this year. Many of the killings have been committed boldly and in broad daylight on busy downtown Juarez boulevards. Juarez is a Mexican border city of a million and half people.

The El Paso times reported today that west Side resident Elizabeth Wierson was forwarded the e-mail by her son. She and other parents of Loretto Academy graduates had been scheduled to take their daughters to a graduation dance in Juárez tonight, but they changed their plans because of security concerns even after spending hundreds of dollars, she said.

“You can’t really put a price on safety,” Wierson said. “We decided not to go.”

The e-mails spread like a standard urban legend. Each recipient was asked to forward it to family and friends for their safety. Juárez news media also did reports on it.

“There is definitely a psychosis in Juárez,” said Tony Payan, a Mexico expert at the University of Texas at El Paso.

Related articles:

More Americans shot in Mexico

Mexico Drug Related Violent Deaths Escalate

Drug war shutters businesses on Mexico border

Mexican Authorities Covering up shootings of Americans

Four or more Americans executed in Mexico

Major Mexican Cartels are joining forces to battle the Mexican Army

Mexican President Rushes more Troops to U.S. Mexican border city Juarez

Mexico’s National Security Cabinet expected to declare a state of emergency

Juarez police chief resigns for fear of his life

Mexican drug cartels infiltrating colleges and high school campuses in America

Dangerous Mexican/U.S. Criminal Enterprises Operating Along the Mexican border

LAGUNA JOURNAL



Frances

Mansi Gupta asked:


Mexican flavor of architecture, food and living has impressed people all over the world. Mexican culture and artifacts are famous around the globe and hence there is no better way to enjoy and become familiar with the Mexican sprit than touring the country itself. Mexico as a tourist spot offers wide range of geographical locations and country sites for a traveler to choose. The country touches the shores of ocean at many places and has high-rise mountains at other end. The region presents an excellent opportunity for water sports and deep-sea excursions and mountaineering.

With fabulous hotels and exotic views to offer Mexico has also developed into a favorite honeymoon destination. Recently wedded couples find numerous getaways in this country. The cities here present a promising adventurous vacation. Among the all time favorite destination is Acapulco a place that has attracted tourists since earlier times because of its rocking nightlife and beautiful beaches. Apart from regular water sports cliff diving is an added exclusive special attraction of the place. Mainly well-trained professionals perform this art after the sun goes down and it presents a spectacular view for the tourists. With hotels having private and semi-private swimming pools to offer it has become a favorite for couples on vacation.

Another very popular spot for tourists is the Yucatan Peninsula, which is famous for its ancient ruins of Mexican architecture and traditions. The geographical location of Yucatan peninsula renders it a perfect visiting area. Although the weather at this place in inviting all year round still the tourist attraction is maximum from October to June. Mexico is a paradise for water game lovers, sea divers, trekkers and other such activists. Apart from offering boating, rafting and cruise options for tourists every popular travel spots also have dedicated shopping centers. The shops offer anything from Mexican folk art, handicrafts depicting Mexican culture, jewellery, pottery, shirts and many other such options to take back home as a souvenir from Mexico.

The prime religion in Mexico is mainly Catholics and this thought is well expressed by the spread of well-constructed cathedrals around the town. These cathedrals are masterpieces of architecture and exhibit a great deal about the rich cultural history of the place. While on the way through the city lanes the Christian archeological extracts are visible throughout the journey. Vacationing in Mexico with stay and sightseeing the trip may sometimes prove to be costlier than expected. Hence its best advised to preplan the visit and opt for an all included packaged journey tour in the country. The travel agents best guide tourists through most favorite hot spots among travelers and options that fit best within the budget.

Night safari through the forests of the region is an added attraction. A safari on four wheeler jeeps through the mountains can well be an experience of lifetime. The best ways for touring the country is having a base destination at one place and then go touring other neighboring spots on short trips. Biking is another favorite activity in the region cycling through Mexico is so popular that anyone visiting this country can hardly avoid returning back without enjoying a bike-ride.



Luis

Cullen B asked:


We are in a 3 hour layover in Mexico City from Dallas, and then we fly on to puerta vallarta. What is there to do in mexico city airport for 3 hours?

Heidi

theboytoy asked:


my husband is originally from Mexico and is now a permanent resident of the us. He is going to Mexico in December on an airplane. What does he need to reenter the us?

Melinda

box_eatjj asked:


I want an atlas of Mexico or map of Mexico with all of the main routes, roads, cities, and highways. Where can I find one and how much would it cost?

Brianne