Mexico has a way of getting under your skin. It’s one of those places that calls you back, again and again, with its intoxicating mix of history, warmth, chaos, and beauty. And yet, despite its magic, it’s a country that so many people misunderstand. I’ve lost count of the number of times someone has gasped when I mention my travels here, warning me about danger as if I were walking into a war zone. Meanwhile, I’ve felt more uneasy on public transit in my own country than I ever have wandering the colorful streets of a Mexican pueblo.

The truth is, Mexico is wildly misrepresented. The best parts of this country—the small towns, the Pueblos Mágicos, the impromptu fiestas, the incredible local food—rarely make it into the headlines. But they’re there, waiting for anyone willing to step outside the usual tourist bubbles of Cancún and Cabo.

The Best Memories Are Always Accidental

Some of my best moments in Mexico have been completely unplanned. Like the time we locked the keys in our rental car—a bright blue Volkswagen Beetle—in a tiny village. Instead of panicking, we wandered into the local taverna, asking if anyone knew how to get into a locked car. Within minutes, a crowd had gathered, debating the best course of action. Eventually, an older man was summoned from the other side of town, a local legend known for his particular set of skills. He arrived, grinning, beer in hand, and had the door open in under a minute. The entire village cheered. We bought rounds for everyone. That’s Mexico.

Why You Should Visit a Pueblo Mágico

If you want to experience the heart of Mexico, skip the all-inclusive resorts and visit one of its Pueblos Mágicos—the officially designated “magical towns” that showcase the country’s culture, history, and natural beauty. The ones I’ve visited have been nothing short of incredible. Whether it’s the surreal landscapes of Real de Catorce, the stunning waterfalls of Xilitla, or the colonial charm of Valladolid, each one has something special.

These towns offer an authentic slice of Mexico: hand-painted signs advertising homemade tamales, bustling markets filled with the smell of freshly made tortillas, and plazas where families gather to enjoy live music in the evenings. No pretension, no rush—just life unfolding in the most beautiful way.

Mexico Is Safer Than You Think

Let’s address the elephant in the room: yes, crime exists in Mexico. But crime exists everywhere. I feel far more at risk walking alone in certain U.S. cities than I do strolling through a Mexican town. The reality is, most of Mexico is perfectly safe for travelers who use common sense. Avoiding trouble is simple: don’t get involved in illegal activities, be aware of your surroundings, and stick to areas known for tourism.

Ironically, I worry more about certain parts of the U.S. than I do about traveling through Mexico. The media loves to sensationalize crime, but context matters. The vast majority of violence in Mexico has nothing to do with tourists, and most of the country’s best destinations remain untouched by any of it.

Why I’ll Keep Coming Back

I love Mexico for its food, its landscapes, and its deep sense of history. But more than anything, I love it for the people. I love the way strangers greet you with a warm buenos días, the way shopkeepers throw in an extra pastry just because, the way a simple request for directions turns into a 10-minute conversation about the best local tacos al pastor. Mexico is full of these small, everyday kindnesses, the kind that make you feel at home even when you’re thousands of miles away.

So if you’ve been hesitating, let this be your sign: book the ticket. Find a Pueblo Mágico that calls to you. Get lost in a market. Join a random street party. Let Mexico surprise you. Because I promise, the best moments will be the ones you never planned.

Que viva México!