Exploring Mexico

Written By: Yuna S

Location and Geography of Mexico

Mexico is located in the Southern part of North America and borders the United States to the north, and Guatemala and Belize to the southeast. It is also surrounded by coastlines on the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. Mexico is part of the circum-Pacific called the “Ring of Fire” which is a region of active volcanism. It has Citlatépetl, which is 18,406 feet and there is also the active volcano Popocatépetl, which is 17,930 feet. Mexico is located on the western edge of the North American Plate which causes severe earthquakes and earth-building processes that result in the rugged landscape of Mexico. Mexico covers a total area of 1,972,550 kilometers and 1,959,248 square kilometers of it is land while the remaining 5,127 kilometers are island. It has a total of 1,356 islands. The capital of Mexico is Mexico city, which is the largest city in Mexico. 

Flag

Mexico has a flag that consists of green, white, and red. The red stripes on the flag represent the Spaniards that joined the quest for Mexican Independence. The green represents victory and hope, white  represents unity, while red honors the national heroes who fought for Mexico. The flag was officially decreed by Austín de Iturbide in November 1821 and was officially used in July 1822. 

Flag

Mexico has a variety of delicious foods rich in flavor.

Barbacoa: Barbacoa is a food that is made from meat like sheep, lamb, and goat. 

Tacos: Tacos are made with bread base, beef, chicken, pork, and fish.

Peneques: It is made from cheese and beans coated with egg and flour.

Carnitas: Carnitas is made from pork seasoned and shimmered for several hours.

Pambazo: Pambazo is made from white bread, potato, and dipped in red guajillo pepper sauce.

Tourist Destinations

Cancún: A city on Yucatán Peninsula that borders the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its beaches and resorts.

Mexico City: Mexico City has museums, restaurants, and parks.

Cabo San Lucas: It is known for its beaches, bars, and outdoor restaurants.

Chichén Itzá: A site that has Mayan ruins. It is a massive step pyramid and stone carvings that are shaped in a ball court.

Festivals in Mexico

Día de Muertos: Celebrated on November 1 and 2. It is a joyful and colorful event that honors their deceased with altars that have sugar skulls, sweets, candles, and more.

Independence Day: Celebrated on September 15 with music, Mexican dishes, and fireworks celebrating independence. 

Fiesta de Santa Cecilia: It is celebrated on November 22. It is celebrated with an open - air party and music on the streets.