Official name of country: The United Mexican States
Population: 111 million
Capital City: Mexico City
Time Difference: Mexico is on Central Daylight Time, so it is one hour behind the east coast and two hours ahead of the west coast.
National Bird: Crested Caracara
National Currency: Peso
National Flower: Dahlia
National Sport: Bull fighting
Holidays: The rich culture of Mexico embraces holidays and festivals as often as possible! Despite the name, Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is actually a day of celebration in Mexico. From October 31 to November 2, Mexicans believe the souls of their loved ones visit them. The celebration includes decorating gravestones, feasting with friends and family, dancing and music, and decorations of paper mache skeletons. Semana Santa is another major holiday in Mexican culture. The holiday is similar to Easter in the US, but instead of one day of celebration, Mexicans celebrate for an entire week. Festivities include parades, processions, song and dance performances in the streets and plazas, and of course delicious food and drinks!
Geography: Mexico is located directly south of the US and is the fourteenth largest country in the world. The southern borders of the country are shared with Belize, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. Large mountain ranges, tropical beaches, and dry deserts make up most of Mexico’s terrain. Generally, the climate in Mexico is warm and dry, although most of the country does see a rainy season from June to October. While in Cuernavaca, you are guaranteed a warm and sunny atmosphere!
Famous People: Diego Rivera (artist), Salma Hayek (actress), Gael García Bernal (actor), Maná (pop-rock band), Julieta Venegas (singer), and Pancho Villa (revolutionist).
Great Movies: Amores Perros; Y Tu Mama Tambien; Pan’s Labyrinth; Babel; Como Agua Para Chocolate; Cronos.