Colors of Cancun - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

It is not a secret that people in Mexico are temperamental and passionate. However, there are also open-minded and cheerful people who enjoy communicating with others. The hospitality of Mexicans is one more trait of the national character. This also applies to Cancun where tourism is well-developed – the city is often present in the list of the top ten resorts in the world. As a rule, Mexicans are more relaxed when dealing with their friends and family members. However, if you talk to them for quite a long time, and you both enjoy the conversation, you will notice how locals become friendlier. Locals often communicate with others with a wide smile.

Patriotism and family values are very widespread in Mexico, so be prepared to hear how locals praise their home country. Gossips about well-known and little-known people are also not rare. Take into consideration the short temper of local people and try to refrain from critical exclamations about the country, traditions in Mexican families, and, in particular, about abortions. Many local people do not approve of this medical procedure, and abortions are even prohibited in some parts of the country. Because of this, many local families have three and more children. It is not rare to see big groups of kids playing and having fun outside in Mexico, especially in residential areas with private houses. Cancun is no exception.

Approximately three-quarters of Mexicans are Catholics, and more than half of them visit church regularly. Local people respect Christian laws and try to follow them. For many residents of the country, Sunday visits to church have become a good tradition. On this day, it is not rare to see numerous people in their weekend outfits heading to the nearest church. Actually, Mexicans like holidays and other festivities and enjoy participating in parades and processions. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

English is enough for a comfortable stay in Cancun and using different services. However, to get a deeper knowledge and understanding of the local atmosphere, it is still better to know Spanish (the official language) at least at a basic level. Don’t be surprised if unknown people smile to you, greet you or try to talk – such behavior is typical and widely spread in Mexico. You simply need to be polite in such situations.

Winter holidays celebration is one of the most grandiose and unforgettable events in Cancun. As a rule, all festivities last almost a month – from December 3 to January 5. The thing is, several important holidays are celebrated in the first month of winter. These are Christmas, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe celebration, Las Posadas, Laughter Day, and New Year. This is the traditional time for all kinds of festive events, such as concerts, processions, carnivals, fireworks, and performances of artists. December is an excellent month for a vacation in Mexico, especially if it is cold in your country at this time of a year.

Independence Day is a very important holiday in the life of local people. It is always widely celebrated, so tourists can attend many interesting events and celebrations. The holiday is celebrated on September 15, not 16, even though the latter is more accurate according to the historical data. It is believed that the holiday’s date was changed to coincide with the day of Saint Porphyrios. Theatrical performances have become a common way to celebrate Independence Day. During these performances, visitors can learn more about the events that happened more than 200 years ago. At official celebrations, local people also sing the national anthem and shout the names of freedom fighters and “Viva, Mexico!” The holiday usually ends with fabulous fireworks.

During the period from October 31 to November 2, when many countries celebrate Halloween, some countries in Latin America have their version of the holiday – the Day of the Dead. Despite such a gloomy name, it is a merry and energetic holiday that Mexicans like to celebrate. They clean tombs of their deceased family members and friends, leave gifts to them and light candles in churches. It is believed that in order not to sadden and disturb the deceased, it is important to have fun and forget about all troubles on the Day of the Dead. Locals decorate streets of their cities with garlands and ribbons, participate in colorful processions with colorful lanterns, sing, and dance.