Mexico has a diverse indigenous population, comprising many different ethnic groups with a wide variety of languages and customs. The most recent survey  of international visitors to Mexico showed that 80% spend their holidays in and around a beach resort. Cancun, the major seaside resort, is geared up to accommodate the habits of American and European visitors. But elsewhere in the country, you should be prepared for very different ways of life.

Mexico has the second-largest economy in Latin America and is a major oil producer and exporter. Though production has fallen in the last few years, about one-third of government revenue still comes from the industry. Much of the crude is bought by the US.