Other stereotypes...

As my trip comes to a close, I was thinking about stereotypes that were busted wide open this week. Things that we are 'sure of' that may not be the case. One of the biggest discoveries that I made this week is that there are many Mexicans that don't have any idea how to dance- not only the salsa but other fairly common Latin dances like the cha-cha. Why is this a surprise? Well, this is a country known for it's music and passion for dance. I was taken aback the other day when I was teaching the locals a few steps just to get them through the dance! Another stereotype that was challenged this week- the openess of the culture. I had a nice stay with a host family this week but I cannot say that I felt the warm fuzzies. This is the third time that I've stayed in Mexico and I've found the families to be pretty much the same- kind but reserved. Finally, the last stereotype was that Mexican men are assertive. Based on my experience this week, I would still contend that this is true. At first I thought it was just men wanting to sell their goods that were trying to engage me but then, I had random men walk up to me and start talking to me that were not in the service travel industry. It was such a strange experience to have so many men try to engage with me. Overall, my experience in Mexico was a very positive experience. I've learned more about the culture and history. The trip has made me want to explore Mexico in more detail and that, I believe, is a good thing.