Things To Do
in Mexico
Mexico is a municipality in Pampanga province in Central Luzon, Philippines, known for its Kapampangan culture, friendly neighbourhood plazas and proximity to Clark and major nature sites. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring nearby Mount Arayat, the Candaba bird sanctuary and the wider culinary traditions of Pampanga. Visitors will find a mix of small-town charm, family-run eateries, lively local markets and easy access to Clark International Airport.
Mexico’s low-key evening scene, festivals and accessible outdoor activities make it a good stop for food, birdwatching and day trips to volcanic landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Mexican breakfast of chilaquiles and fresh fruit at a local café in Mexico City. After your meal, embark on a walking tour of the Historic Center, marveling at stunning architecture like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. Take your time to explore the vibrant streets and visit the iconic Templo Mayor ruins.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Palacio de Bellas Artes, where you can appreciate both its stunning interior and the art exhibits inside. For lunch, indulge in some street tacos at a nearby food stall, savoring the local flavors and atmosphere. Afterward, stroll through Alameda Central Park, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxation.
As the sun sets, head to the rooftop bar of a nearby hotel for panoramic views of the city skyline. Enjoy a refreshing margarita while the night comes alive with the sounds of live mariachi music. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day on the stunning white sands of Boracay, Philippines, where the sun shines brightly over the turquoise waters. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, sampling local favorites like longsilog or fresh mangoes. After breakfast, gear up for a morning of thrilling water sports, such as parasailing or jet skiing.
After your adrenaline rush, take a break for lunch at a beachside restaurant, trying out fresh seafood dishes and tropical fruit shakes. Spend the afternoon lounging under the sun or exploring the nearby coral reefs while snorkeling. Engage in a friendly game of beach volleyball or take a refreshing dip in the ocean to cool off.
As evening approaches, enjoy a stunning sunset while sipping a cocktail on the beach. After the sun dips below the horizon, indulge in a seafood feast at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy grilled fish and other delicacies. Cap off your night by joining a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse / simple hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🚕Short tricycle or jeepney ride | $0.20-0.80 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1.50-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Kapampangan culinary tradition and excellent local food.
- Close to natural attractions like Mount Arayat, Candaba marsh and Mount Pinatubo.
- Friendly small-town atmosphere and easy access to Clark International Airport.
- Affordable travel costs and plentiful markets for fresh produce and local products.
- Can be very hot and humid during the summer months.
- Limited nightlife and high-end services within the town itself—must travel to Clark or Angeles for more options.
- Rainy season brings typhoon risk and possible travel disruptions.
- Medical facilities in town are basic; major hospitals are in nearby cities.
- "Kamusta?" - How are you? / Hello
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano?" - How much?
- "Nasaan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paumanhin / Mawalang galang na po" - Excuse me / I'm sorry (polite)
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Mexico
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic small-town scenes of the plaza, parish church and daily life—great for cultural and street photography, especially in morning light.
Expansive wetlands with migratory birds and wide skies; sunrise and early morning are best for dramatic bird photography.
A solitary volcanic mountain providing scenic hikes and panoramic views—photogenic at sunrise or when low clouds form around the peak.
Spectacular post-eruption crater lake with turquoise water set in rugged lahar fields—ideal for landscape photography.
Vibrant colors and close-up shots of produce, cured meats, spices and cooked dishes—perfect for foodie photography.
Food in Mexico
Mexico Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sizzling chopped pork (often with liver) dish seasoned with calamansi and chili; Pampanga claims one of the best versions. Find it in local eateries and grills throughout town.
Must-Try!
Sweet cured pork (tocino) and local chorizo (longganisa) served for breakfast with garlic rice and eggs; available at markets and breakfast stalls.
A rich oxtail or pork stew with peanut sauce, usually served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side; sample it at traditional restaurants.
Regional snacks and rice cakes sold in markets and bakeries—great to take home as souvenirs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively municipal market where you can find fresh produce, cured meats, local pastries and street-food stalls selling barbecue, fish, and rice-based snacks.
A short drive away, San Fernando’s markets offer larger selections and specialty stalls with Kapampangan delicacies and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite forms of address and show deference to elders; adding 'po' and 'opo' to sentences conveys respect.
Filipinos are hospitable—bring a small gift if invited to a home and accept offers of food as a sign of respect.
Dress modestly for church services and observe local customs during religious festivals; ask before photographing private rituals.
Filipinos are generally warm and tactile (handshakes, friendly touches); public displays of anger are frowned upon—keep interactions polite and calm.
Safety
Tipping in Mexico
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips (10%) in restaurants without service charge are common. For porters, drivers and guides a small cash tip is customary. Use cash for small transactions and when patronizing tricycles or street vendors.
Cash (Philippine peso) is king in towns; ATMs are available in larger nearby towns and Clark. Credit cards are accepted at bigger hotels and restaurants, but many establishments are cash-only. Mobile wallets (GCash, PayMaya) are growing but acceptance varies in small businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise significantly, especially in April and May; expect hot, humid days—carry sun protection, stay hydrated and plan strenuous activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent afternoon storms and higher risk of flooding or typhoons; check weather forecasts, allow flexibility in travel plans and avoid low-lying roads during heavy rain.
Generally the most pleasant time to visit—cooler mornings and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities, festivals and market visits.
Mexico at Night
Hiking in Mexico
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent solitary volcanic cone with trails on the slopes; suitable for day hikes and offers panoramic views from the summit area.
A dramatic trek across lahar landscapes to a vividly colored crater lake created after the 1991 eruption—guided trips are recommended.
Flat wetland areas ideal for easy walks and long-distance photography; birdwatching paths and observation points are available for visitors.
Airports
How to reach Mexico by plane.
The closest major airport (about 20–40 minutes by car depending on exact location), with domestic and some international flights. Convenient for access to Angeles, Clark Freeport and western Pampanga.
The main international gateway for the Philippines, about 1.5–2.5 hours by road depending on traffic; offers many more international connections and full services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in the area, speaking Kapampangan and Filipino (Tagalog); known for their cuisine and strong regional identity.
Migrant workers and families from other regions of the Philippines who live and work in the area, contributing to cultural diversity.
A smaller community near Clark Freeport and the airport—includes business travelers, expatriates and those connected to the aviation and service industries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide; you’ll see pickup games in barangay courts and local leagues in town.
Boxing has many local followers; traditional Filipino martial art Arnis is also practiced culturally and in schools.
A traditional pastime in many rural areas; observe local laws and cultural sensitivity—some venues are regulated, others are informal.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mexico.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited in small towns; look for vegetable stews, fried vegetables, tofu dishes and omelettes. Communicate clearly—use the word 'vegetarian' or 'walang karne' (no meat) and check for fish sauce or shrimp paste.
Vegan dining requires caution—many dishes use fish sauce or shrimp paste. Markets have vegetables and fruits to prepare if you have access to a kitchen; larger restaurants can sometimes make vegan versions on request.
Rice is the staple so many dishes are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce and other sauces may contain wheat. Explain allergies clearly and carry translations if needed.