Despite The Headline, There's Much More To Mexico's Story

Recent media attention may be focused on Mexican-US relations, but there is much more here for both tourists and investors.

All nations suffer to some extent from being caricatured by superficial stereotypes and sensational headlines. Few, however, get press as bad as Mexico. In the slew of lurid stories on drugs and gun trafficking, border wall politics and immigration, you’d never guess that the United Mexican States is the world’s 15th biggest economy, second biggest in Latin America, home to the largest Spanish-speaking population in the Americas – and a powerhouse of literature, the arts, architecture and gastronomy.

Any visitor to Mexico City – perhaps the most misrepresented of all Mexican destinations – is quickly apprised of the fact that life south of the Rio Bravo (its name in Mexico, not Grande) can be pretty wonderful. The range of hotels is perhaps the widest in Latin America, from five-star chains to boutique properties. Gastronomy is world-class; six of the top 50 Latin American restaurants, including long-revered eateries Pujol and Quintonil, are in Mexico City. (Another five are elsewhere in Mexico). Art is showcased at shimmering buildings such as the MUAC, Museo Jumex and Carlos Slim’s Museo Soumaya, while the city’s Zona Maco and Material Art Fair are among the western hemisphere’s most important art gatherings.

Home to 8.9 million inhabitants, it’s perhaps no surprise that Mexico City should have big-city attractions. But there are draws in smaller destinations, too, from Guadalajara’s film and arts scenes to Oaxaca’s innovative cuisine and colonial centre.

WHEELS OF INDUSTRY