The Latin American home of tequila and mariachi

For 300 years Mexico was known as New Spain, before it gained independence from Spain in 1821. The country was re-named Mexico after the capital, which had been built in a valley among the high central plains on the site of the former Aztec capital Mexico-Tenochtitlan. This bustling city is now one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, packed full of cultural attractions ranging from ancient historic sites and grand colonial buildings to vibrant modern nightlife, theatres, massive shopping centres and a thriving financial district. Mexico is strewn with ancient ruins from Mesoamerican cultures such as the Aztecs and Mayans, which have become hugely popular tourist attractions. The coastal resort cities such as Cancun, Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta attract millions of tourists from all over the world with their superb beaches and excellent year-round climate.

Why Go?
Beautiful beaches, ancient history and exciting cities, Mexico has it all! Most people book holidays in Mexico to enjoy the luxurious resort of Cancun, but there is plenty more to experience. Spend time among the passionate Mexican people in Mexico’s ever-expanding capital city or visit the captivating ancient Mayan sites.

When to Go?
To enjoy the best of Mexico City, visit in April or May, before the rather humid and wet period between June and September. The resort of Cancun is hottest in July and August, which is also when hotels become pricier and the beaches get busier, so a better time to visit is in September and October, when it is a little cooler and quieter but the water is still perfect for swimming.

How to get there?
Flights to Mexico City International (MEX) are only available with BA from London Heathrow, but there are several indirect options most notably via Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). Mexico’s most popular resort, flights to Cancun (CUN) are available with tour operators Thomson and Thomas Cook from several regional UK airports including Manchester, Glasgow International, Birmingham, Bristol and Newcastle. Thomson also has flights to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) on the west coast.

Must see
The sprawling capital, Mexico City, has an abundance of cultural attractions as well as vibrant nightlife, fabulous food and a palpable energy. The Centro Historico extending out from the main plaza is a UNESCO World Heritage site with lots of impressive buildings including the National Palace and Mexico City Cathedral. In Mexico’s second city Guadalajara experience the home of mariachi and knock back a few tequilas in local bars and restaurants. In northern Yucatan visit the incredible Maya ruins of Chichen Itza, a large archaeological site that was once the city of an ancient pre-Colombian society.