The resorts of Grupo Mayan are located in the beautiful and exotic country of Mexico. Sharing a border with the United States, our culture is, never the less, our own; unique and expansive. You will find the Mexican people you meet while on holiday to be polite, generous, and very interesting.
Whether at your Grupo Mayan resort or on a tour off of resort property, you will find Mexico to be a blend of its many indigenous peoples. Oaxaca, Yucatan, Maya, and Aztec are only a few of the cultures who have left their imprint on todayís Mexico. The traditions and beliefs of these native people are still found throughout Mexico.
The family is of utmost importance in Mexico. Many of Mexicoís festivals and events celebrate the family. Many Mexican people are of the Roman Catholic faith and the beliefs of this religion are also found in their traditions.
When you are a visitor in a new and unfamiliar country it is always a good idea to explore the countryís people, traditions, and customs. Mexico has a rich past and we at Grupo Mayan would like to offer you a glance at Mexican etiquette.
ï Use proper greetings when addressing Mexican for the first time. Mexicanís are very polite and you will want to address people as senor, senorita, or senora.
ï ë!Buenos dÌas!í is a great way to start a conversation with anyone you meet, including clerks and waitresses. Do not worry about your accent as the Mexican people will be honored by your effort.
ï If you are meeting a group of Mexican people at the same time you should take the time to introduce yourself to each person in the group individually as a sign of respect.
ï Learn some Spanish words before your vacation. The staff at the Grupo Mayan resorts will be able to converse with you in your language and so will most Mexicans you meet throughout the country but learning some of the local language is a sign of respect.
ï Do not be impatient and be ready to wait. Mexico is more laid back than many other countries. You can enjoy siesta time (between 2 and 5 pm), a time for relaxation.
ï Mexican people characteristically arrive for social events an hour or so later than the appointed time. You will find this to be true when you are not at your Grupo Mayan resort. While at your resort punctuality is considered important by our staff and our goal is to not keep you waiting.
ï Mexican custom dictates the common greeting of kissing, usually an air kiss, between women or between men and women.
ï A firm handshake is the general etiquette between business associates and male acquaintances.
ï The U.S. hand sign for ëokí (a circle with your thumb and forefinger) is considered vulgar in Mexican etiquette.
ï Do not be offended if a man whistles or winks at you when being introduced. Men usually introduce themselves to women by winking or whistling. This is known as the ëpiripoí.
ï Do not feel like your personal space is being purposely invaded. Mexicans stand closer Americans do. Stepping back could be considered insulting.
Knowing the proper etiquette of most Mexicans will help you avoid uncomfortable situations. The Grupo Mayan resorts are more relaxed because of our many European and American visitors. You will find, however, that proper respect is appreciated everywhere. The traditions of Mexico are quite interesting and we hope you will enjoy experiences many of the traditional ways of life while on your Grupo Mayan holiday.
