Mexico

Mexico is a country in the southern portion of North America. It is bordered to the north by the United States; to the south and west by the Pacific Ocean; to the southeast by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea; and to the east by the Gulf of Mexico. The nation is the fourth largest country in the Americas and has an estimated population of over 129 million people. Mexico is a federation comprising of 31 states plus Mexico City, which is the capital and most populous city. Pre-Columbian Mexico dates back to about 8000 BC and is recognized as one of six cradles of civilization. It was home to many advanced Mesoamerican civilizations such as the Olmec, Toltec, Teotihuacan, Zapotec, Maya, and Aztec before first contact with Europeans. As such, Mexico is extremely rich in historical sites to visit and explore. Mexico's temperate climate, excellent beaches, and flavorful food makes it a favorite vacation destination for Americans and Canadians, many flocking to the world-class tourist resorts in Baja California, the Yucatan, and Quintana Roo.