By Robin Thornley
Mexico is a wonderful mix of modern and ancient cultures, neither overwhelming the other, but woven together. Immigrants have brought their own customs to the Mexican melting pot--Germans, Lebanese, Africans and Italians and, of course Spanish--but the country is also home to a mosaic of Indian cultures. The diverse cultural contributions are sometimes little-known by first-time tourists and yet they are often part of everyday life.
Afro-Mexicans
Many African slaves intermarried with the Spanish and Indian neighbors when slavery was abolished in 1823, but their cultural stamp still can be seen in communities like Cuajinicuilapa on the Costa Chica, south of Acapulco.
Mennonite Farmers
Some of the best cheese in Mexico is made by Mennonite settlers who moved from Canada to Chihuahua in the 1920s; they also are known for their apple crops and rustic furniture.
Mexican Corn
Corn is and always has been a Mexican staple, but the popular street snack, corn on the cob, slathered with mayo and chile powder, is not the familiar sweet corn found in most US kitchens. It is field corn, starchier and nuttier tasting.
Deep Roots
Spanish settlers built the first winery in the Americas in Parras, but until recently most of Mexico's grape harvest went into brandy production. Now, top quality wines are being produced in the country, particularly by Italian-Mexicans in the Baja.
Multi-lingual
Over 50 Indian dialects are spoken in Mexico--Nahuatl, the mother tongue of the Aztecs, contributed many words to the English language including avocado (ahuacatl) and chocolate (xocolatl).
About the Author:
Robin Thornley has been a successful writer for more than 25 years, penning articles for national magazines, newspapers and websites. She specializes in a variety of topics, including business, politics, lifestyle trends, travel and cuisine. She also is the author of two guidebooks.
