Dusty pueblos adorned with adobe houses, each with a man sitting against a wall, a large sombrero tipped over his face, heavy snoring sounds emitting from underneath that hat, and barefoot Indian women and children walking through the dusty, cobbled streets. This was the first image that came to mind when I thought of Mexico.

After four months travelling there, I discovered it was all this and much, much more. Mexico is a land of incredible diversity, from the deserts of the north to the mountainous interior, to the colonial towns around Mexico City and the Caribbean flavour of the Yucatan Peninsula. Its people are poor, yet rich in culture, spirit and hospitality. I found myself humbled by their kindness and willingness to share with us what little possessions they had. In Mexico friendship is what counts.

Mexico is also rich in history. The Yucatan is littered with the ruins of the Maya civilisation that once inhabited its jungles. The towns around Mexico City resemble small Spanish-style towns with narrow, twisty alleys dotted with fountains and lined with colourful houses.

Getting around in Mexico is easy. The one thing about poorer countries is that less people own cars and thus more people use public transport. This means that the public transport is not only cheap, but covers most destinations. The buses are the best way to travel. Personally I preferred the second class buses because they stop in all the small villages along the way. People get on and off all the time and so there is never a dull moment. Also, buskers come on the bus and entertain, and in each place you stop women and children sell food and drink at the windows or come on the bus. It doesn't always stop there. Other things are sold too, the most bizarre thing I saw being sold were stuffed animals.

Finally, Mexico is much safer than many might think. Due to Western movies and with a little help from movie directors like Robert Rodriegez many have the impression that Mexico is still full of Bandidos and drug lords. While it's probably true, you are highly unlikely to come across any. I heard my share of horror stories, but in my four months of travelling there, never once got any agro, or even anyone wanting a fight. I even spent an evening in a rough cantina where a group of men befriended me and the others I was with and insisted they buy us the drinks all night. They wouldn't let any of us buy any of the drinks, despite our insistence. When it came time to go, they shook our hands and wished us happy travelling.

Getting there:

Air: Is pretty much the only option, unless you are a keen walker and swimmer, or live on the North American continent. Here are some links:

Travelbag

Cheapflights UK

Flights from UK

Cheapflights USA

Farebuster UK

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