Mexico Things to Do

The state of Jalisco in Mexico is famous for the production of tequila, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the blue agave plant. Tequila is Mexico’s national drink and plays an important role in Mexican culture. The history of tequila in Mexico dates back to the mid-16th-century, but the beverage didn’t gain widespread popularity until after the Mexican Revolution.

Because so much English-language coverage of Mexico’s border states focuses on narcotrafficking violence, few people realize that the vineyards of Baja California are peacefully producing wonderful wines just an hour from Tijuana. Only 70km (44mi) south of the border—consider crossing at the quiet town of Tecate, well known for its own alcoholic offering—you’ll discover the rolling hills of the Valle de Guadalupe, cultivated with a pinstriped patchwork of grape vines.

The state of Oaxaca (pronounce wah-HAH-ka), found in southern Mexico, is well known for serving up some of the nation’s finest cuisine. Often called the “Land of Seven Moles” for its elaborate mole (MOE-lay) sauces, concocted with dozens of ingredients that are combined over days of preparation, this is a spectacular foodie destination.