As you leave the American border and enter Mexico by car, you may see seven lanes of traffic converge, without warning, on a road designed for three. Defensive driving is definitely recommended in Mexico.
The Friendliest People on Earth
Always remember, you are a guest among some of the friendliest people on earth. A satisfying visit may depend upon the respect and esteem you hold for your hosts. Arrogance and pride are contrary to the Mexican way of life. Airs of affluence and pompous mannerisms contribute to a negative image of you. Money, or lack of it, neither impresses nor disquiets a Mexican.
Your trip south of the border can be more than basking in the eternally warm sunshine, indulging in luxury at economy prices or feasting your eyes on spectacular scenery. You will encounter people who may vary drastically from your neighbors at home. An appreciation and understanding of the differences you find will add immeasurably to your travel and living experience. Learning to appreciate a bit of the history, arts, customs and folkways of Mexico and its people will be time well spent.
Smiles Pave the Way
Police, aduanas (customs agents) and other public officials will generally respond with the degree of kindness you offer them. Smiles pay dividends in kind and always be polite and courteous. It’s a commodity that goes a long way throughout Mexico.
Buenos Dias
Knowing a few Spanish words also pays big dividends. After ‘buenos dias’ (good day, hello), the most frequently used word this side of the border is ‘gracias’ and 'de nada' (thank you and you're welcome). Basic words for greeting people and exercising simple etiquette cannot be overemphasized (especially if you need to find a restroom). Your feeble attempts to use espanol are always appreciated, even when their response is a perfectly phrased, “I speak a little English.”
A Cultural Anomoly: Mexican People Don’t Like to Say NO!
Another little travel tip! It is easy to get lost in Mexico. Signs can be small and planted snugly behind a tree and one-way streets are common in small pueblos. If you get lost, don’t be afraid to ask for directions. However, watch carefully for the body language that comes with the answer. Mexican people do not like to say ‘no’ or ‘I don’t know.’ They are incredibly accommodating people. If the response to your request for directions comes with hesitation or lack of confidence, give a smile and a hardy ‘gracias,’ then go a little further and ask someone else. If you get the same answer, then there is a good chance you are going in the right direction. If not, ask again.
You will be amazed at how far out of their way a Mexican person will go when you ask for directions. Our first trip to Mexico was in a Motor Home (34’ with a car behind). As you might expect, navigating through small villages was a challenge. We arrived in San Blas at the end of the rainy season – guide book in hand. The street that would take us to the trailer park was washed out. Many of the streets were narrow and lined with cars. We stopped and asked a man riding a bike for an alternate route to the park. Because it was a circuitous route and hard to explain (especially with the language barrier), he pulled out in front of us and with an arm wave gave us the message ‘follow me.’ A half hour later we arrived at the Trailer Park. While we were discussing an appropriate tip, he just waved and gave a big smile. All we could do was smile and wave back and shout ‘gracias!’ During our ten years here we could tell you dozens of similar stories of assistance we personally have received from Mexican people.