Cross Cultural Awareness Quiz on Mexico

Kwintessential offers cross cultural quizzes to test your knowledge of cultural business norms in different countries. Test your knowledge on Mexico!

"Mexican Economy Still Thriving as Mexican Stock Rises" via MexicoToday

The Mexican economy still thriving as Mexican stocks continue to perform upwards, read more from MexicoToday about Mexico's economy.

Tourism in Mexico on the Rise in 2011 via MexicoToday



Tourism in Mexico has risen by 2 percent from January 2011 to September 2011. Tourists have been flocking to Mexico for business, cultural enjoyment, and artistic satisfaction. 

“Business Mexico: A Practical Guide to Understanding Mexican Business Culture (International Business Culture)"

Author Peddy Kenna provides an in depth and comprehensive look into doing business in Mexico in her book “Business Mexico: A Practical Guide to Understanding Mexican Business Culture (International Business Culture).” Even those quite familiar with Mexican social norms and business tendencies have found this guide very helpful.

Business Travelers, Spiffy Up Your Laptop Bag

Gone are the days where your laptop bag color had to be black or similar drab colors. Timbuk2 has a laptop sleeve with 57 colors and styles that's available in four different sizes. With these choices, there's something for every business traveler.

The bags are made with high-density foam and a scratch-resistant liner that will protect your items. And more importantly, the "TSA-friendly sleeve is a smart travel accessory because you can get through security checkpoints without needing to remove your laptop from the case."

Photo credit: Timbuk2

Mexico's Aerospace Manufacturing Industry Sees Consistent Growth and Demand

Mexico has the aerospace manufacturing industry to thank for helping the economy in its recovery.

Rising aircraft demand has greatly helped Mexico’s economy since the financial crisis two years ago. In 2002, the country’s exports of jet engine parts, fuselages, and electrical systems amounted to $1.26 billion. Since then, the exports have more than doubled to $3.26 billion. The industry employs more than 29,000 people at 232 aerospace firms.

Read more from MexicoToday on the impact of the aerospace manufacturing industry on Mexico's economy and its leadership in the sector.

Food For Thought, Frequent Flyer Credit Cards

How do you take advantage of earning miles and points through credit card applications? This story from Gadling focuses on the story of particular frequent flyer who accumulated points by applying for thirteen credit cards in one day to gather more than 500,000 miles and points. Read more from Gadling to get insight into what this can do to your credit and the positives and negative effects of these tactics.

"Mexico 3Q GDP Jumps 4.5%, Above Expectations" via NASDAQ

Mexico showed that it's economic growth is not to be ignored as its numbers kept a steady pace in the third quarter. Mexico's economy overcame market expectations with strong domestic demand and higher agricultural production compensating for a slowdown in industrial production.

Gross domestic product, a broad measure of output in goods and services, expanded 4.5% in the July-September period from the like period of 2010, Mexico's National Statistics Institute, or Inegi, said Tuesday.

Mexico Will Host the World Travel & Tourism Council's First Regional Summit

Recently, Mexico has been the go to for a variety of important events and conferences. In 2012, Mexico will also have the honor of hosting the World Travel & Tourism Council Regional Summit from May 16-18.

Of the decision to host the event in Mexico, David Scowsill, President & CEO of WTTC said: “Mexico is the ideal host for our first regional Summit, which takes place one month before the G20 meeting. Mexico leads the way in recognising the enormous contribution Travel & Tourism makes to the economy, employment and export income. President Calderón has a strong commitment to tourism which is underlined by the declaration of 2011 as the ‘Year of Tourism’ and by being the first to join WTTC’s and UNWTO’s joint Global Leaders for Tourism Campaign, which highlights the importance of tourism to global growth and development. We are delighted that he will hold the Chair for G20 in 2012.”

Financial Snapshot of Mexico from the Wall Street Journal

The Wall Street Journal offers a financial snapshot of Mexico with information on Mexico's economy (estimated GDP growth,  inflation rate, market cap of publicly traded stocks).

Which Mexican Company Made Newsweek's List of the World’s Greenest Companies?

Via MexicoToday - "Newsweek recently ranked Walmart de Mexico No. 14 on its list of World’s Greenest Companies. Over the past few years, the company has taken great strides to institute sustainable business and environmental practices."

Take a look at the article from MexicoToday to learn about Walmart de Mexico's sustainable environmental practices and renewable energy efforts.

Travel Wallet for Business Travel

When taking off for business travel, it's easy to lose a document by having it tucked away in the corner of your carry-on. A good travel wallet can solve these travel issues, here are some sample features of a great travel wallet:

• Removable ID wallet
• Dedicated internal organizers for your passport, boarding pass, currency and credit cards
• Internal coin pocket

Photo credit: Timbuk2

Mexico and Central American Countries to Sign Single FTA

Today, Mexico and five countries in Central America (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua) are slated to sign a Single Free Trade Agreement. A close trade partner of the US, Mexico has been looking to diversify its trade relationships with other countries.

The agreement provides a legal framework to carry out trade in goods and services between the parties, as well as establish investment in the region, said the source...Issues discussed in the talks included the rules of access and origin in order to facilitate Central American exports to Mexico and update the legal framework of trade relations between the parties, said the Ministry of Economy then.

Photo credit: embamex.sre.gob.mx

Mazda and Sumitomo Construct New Joint Vehicle Production Facility in Mexico

With the construction of a new joint vehicle production facility in Mexico, Mazda and Sumitomo are utilizing their individual strengths to strengthen the business position of both companies in the rapidly growing Central and South American markets. The facility will be comprised of vehicle and engine assembly plants, with operations starting March 2014 in Salamanca, in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico.

The President of Mazda, Mr. Yamanouchi, offered his thoughts on the company's expansion in Mexico, "Since Mazda established its sales network in Mexico six years ago, we have experienced a remarkable acceptance from the people of Mexico. Last year Mazda sold over 25,000 vehicles and captured over three percent market share. We are excited to be constructing this new facility here in Mexico with our partner Sumitomo Corporation. It will be vital to bolstering our expansion in Central and South America."

Tips for Doing Business in Mexico

Here are some valuable tips for conducting business in Mexico:

• Greet all individuals with a handshake
• Socializing in Mexico is extremely important for developing positive business relationships
• Use professional titles like 'Doctor", "Professor", etc...
• Learn to practice patience in business negotiations
• Take notes on business discussions

Mexico-China Export Relationship Grows Stronger

Mexico is working to boost its trade with China. China already has proven itself to be an important trade and export market for Mexico. Read more from MexicoToday to understand the positive implications of increased trade between Mexico and China.

Best Five Luxury Travel iPhone Apps

From Landlopers is a recommendation on what are the best 5 luxury travel iPhone apps. If you can afford to spend, these 5 apps will help travelers maximize their luxury travel experience.

Photo credit: LandsLopers

Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa Celebrates Responsible Business Week

Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa just celebrated InterContinental Hotels & Resorts’ Responsible Business Week with the goal of sustaining Cozumel Island for future tourism endeavors. To find out more visit mexicotoday.org.

Photo Credit: http://www.dailyscubadiving.com/

Packing Tip for Business Travel

Smart Women Travelers offers a travel tip for packing your clothes in your luggage:

If your luggage does not have a fold-out section for you to lay out your clothes, then roll them up. Rolling them seems to save space and also keeps wrinkles to a minimum. In case of wrinkles, the above site also has small sizes of WrinkleSpray and Febreze to freshen up your clothes.

What Are the World's Least Pleasant Airports?

Via CNN Go - This is a look at what travelers view as the worst airports in the world. Do you agree that the 10 airports listed deserve the bad rap?

9 Amazing Art Hotels in the World

Via HuffingtonPost - There are some hotels that give travelers an experience beyond the typical hotel one. These hotels are designed for different artistic experiences. "Life-sized murals, walls covered in street art and playful pop art paintings turn these rooms into your own personal exhibit.

Photo Credit: HuffPost

Hard Rock Hotels Extend to Mexico in New Relationship With Palace Resorts

Hard Rock Hotels International will enter into a contract with Palace Resorts LLC. The Palace Resorts in Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Riviera Maya will be turned into Hard Rock hotels. To find out more visit the article on mexicotoday.org.

Business Dress in Mexico

When doing business in Mexico, most people dress as they would in Europe. Men usually wear dark, colored suits that tend to be more on the conservative side with ties. Women usually wear business suits or conservative dresses. Women are often seen wearing high heels and coats as well.

Here are some examples provided by Mexipreneur.blogspot.com
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Travel Tips and Requirements for Driving into Mexico

If you plan on bringing your vehicle into Mexico on business or vacation, consider the following travel tips from Ally Insurance which are in line with the recent changes to the country's temporary vehicle import permit:

Obtain Mexican Auto Insurance Before You Travel - U.S. liability insurance policies are not valid in Mexico, which Mexican law requires be purchased from a Mexico-based company. To maintain the full protection that an auto insurance policy provides while you are in Mexico, be sure to purchase a policy for loss and liability from a specialized carrier that can provide the best advice and products for your needs.
Consider Purchasing Roadside Assistance Coverage - Most insurance providers that sell policies valid in Mexico also offer Roadside Assistance, which provides you with a reputable network of auto service companies in the event you have a mechanical failure.
Get Permission to Take Your Financed or Leased Vehicle Across the Border - The Mexican government requires drivers of financed vehicles to obtain a permission letter from the lien holder if the vehicle will be taken outside the country's commercial-free zones. Additionally, many U.S. and Canadian banks and finance companies, including Ally, require you to notify them prior to taking your financed or leased vehicle into Mexico. Contact your lien holder to ensure you have the correct documents.
Limit Driving to Daylight Hours When Possible - Mexico's open range laws make colliding with livestock a danger, especially at night. Limit driving to daylight hours when possible and know local driving customs in the region you're traveling in: In Mexico, a blinking left signal on a vehicle traveling on a highway could indicate that it's clear to pass, however, the same signal in an urban area generally indicates the driver is making a left turn.

Helpful Flashlight App for Travelers

Via AARP, a must-need travel app:

You’re in a dark restaurant and you can’t read the menu. Or, you’re in a dark hotel room and need to find the bathroom in the middle of the night. Download a free flashlight application. I don’t know why this isn’t a standard feature on the smartphones. But, thankfully, there are scads of flashlight apps for you to download. 

Southwest Airlines to Offer New Direct Flights to Mexico

Southwest Airlines has ramped up its flight offerings and will offer more services to Mexico through its AirTran Airways subsidiary. John Wayne Airport (serving Orange County in California) plans to have direct flights to Cabo San Lucas and Mexico City, Mexico by mid-2012.

Mexico Exports 10 Billion Dollars Worth of Fruits and Vegetables

Mexico has grown its role as a major exporter of fruits and vegetables from Latin America. The most popular products that Mexico exports are tomato, avocado, broccoli, mango, pineapple, lemon, asparagus, eggplant, peppers, squash, and exotic fruits. Mexico has also taken steps to grow its organic exports.

Of Mexico's new export markets and opportunities, General Coordinator of Trade Promotion and Export Promotion Aserca-SAGARPA, Gabriel Padilla, stated, "We have consolidated our presence in Germany, Holland, UK and Spain. The intention of reciprocity has been opened for stone fruit imports from Spain and we have accepted the intention. We expect to start shipping directly from the ports of Veracruz directly to send tropical fruit to Europe."

Photo credit: Fresh Plaza

Global Helicopter Manufacturing Company Opens Facility in Querétaro, Mexico

Eurocopter Group, a global helicopter manufacturing and support company, that ranks as the largest in the industry in terms of revenues and turbine helicopter deliveries has decided to open up a new production facility in the Aerotech Park in close proximity to the Querétaro International Airport. MexicoToday has the scoop on Eurocopter's investment as well as the impact in the Mexican state in regards to the aeronautical industry in Mexico.

Book "Inside Mexico: Living, Traveling, and Doing Business in a Changing Society"

The Book "Inside Mexico: Living, Traveling, and Doing Business in a Changing Society" by Paula Heusinkveld documents the intricate culture, business norms, and keys to success in doing business and interacting socially in Mexico. The book is sure to be a proven resource for all those curious about Mexican culture and history, those who travel to Mexico frequently on business, and those contemplating moving to Mexico.

The Royal Hideaway Hotel in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

The Royal Hideaway Hotel in Playa del Carmen, Mexico is one of the beautifully luxurious hotels in all of Mexico. They're offering a variety of winter travel specials now!

"Kimberly-Clark Mexico Outperforming in Mexico’s Economy During the Global Recession"

"Kleenex" facial tissue, "Kotex" feminine hygiene products, "Cottonelle", and "Huggies" disposable diapers - what's the common thread among all these household names? They are all produced by Kimberly-Clark, a company that produces mostly paper-based consumer products. Take a look at the video of Claudio González, Chairman of Kimberly-Clark Mexico speaking about the current business climate in Mexico on the Bloomberg Television show, “Street Smart” with Lisa Murphy. The Chairman talks about the growth of the Mexican economy and the reason behind this growth.

Wyndham Garden Hotel in Mexico City

The Wyndham Garden hotel has many meeting and event amenities available for business travelers in Mexico City. They offer both large event rooms for use and a number of smaller ones for meetings. If you're looking to host a corporate event in Mexico City, take a look at this hotel.

Photo Credit: Wyndham Hotels

American Airlines Launches Premium Services for Elite Travelers

Business Travel News - This week, American Airlines launched a premium check-in and expedited security line for elite travelers passing through Los Angeles International Airport. These services will expand to other airports during 2012.

The new Flagship Check-in offering is available only members of AA's invite-only ConciergeKey program, purchasers of American's Five Star Service travel assistance offering and first-class passengers. Such customers will be "greeted by customer service representatives" who "personally assist with individual travel requirements, including check-in and baggage check, seat or itinerary changes and connecting flight information," according to AA. Customers then would have "immediate access to a designated separate security line, offering easy access through security checkpoints."

Rancho La Puerta Spa for Travelers in Baja California

For those traveling to Baja California, Mexico, here's a video showcasing the award-winning Rancho La Puerta Spa, the best all inclusive vacation spa. The spa which was opened in 1940 offers services to take care of the body, mind and spirit.

Mexican Bar Makes List of "Best Cocktail Bars In The World"

Looking for a perfect cocktail on your business travels? Drinks International, the only magazine devoted to global spirits, has compiled their list of the top 50 cocktail bars in the world. There's one bar in Mexico that has made the list - La Capilla in Tequilla, Mexico. The bar is known as the "oldest bar in the Mexican town that gave its name to the famously fiery spirit."

Drinks that the bar is known for include the following cocktails (along with a wide array of tequila):

• Batanga, a cocktail made with tequila, fresh lime juice and Coke and served tall in a salt rimed glass.
• Paloma, tequila and a very popular Mexican grapefruit soda called “Squirt”, again served tall in a salt rimed class.

UK-Mexico Business Forum Brings Closer Relationship Between Both Countries

The UK Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, attended the UK-Mexico Business Forum this week to speak about boosting trade, tourism and cultural links between the two countries. Important business leaders from Mexico and the UK are meeting for two days and this UK-Mexico business forum is serving as a spring board for next steps towards reaching ambitious trade targets (a plan to to double trade to £4.2 billion by 2015).

This meeting comes after a previous meeting 6 months ago to encourage trade between the countries, and the effects can be seen as UK goods exports increased by 12% and imports from Mexico by 20%.

"International Expo & Business LGBT" in Mexico

The first "International Expo & Business LGBT" is about to take place on November 20, 21, 22 and 23 of 2011 at the President Intercontinental Resort located in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Cisco Brings Additional Services to Mexico

Cisco, a company that designs and sells consumer electronics, networking, voice, and communications technology and services, has launched its ScanSafe Cloud Web security services in Mexico.

The service combines security for web browsing with the software as a service offering. With ScanSafe, mobile devices can browse the web without the need to access a corporate central site, or to have security tools installed on them. 

Strong Mexican Economy Boosts Trade of US States

A strong Mexican economy is helping boost trade of several US states. The top five exporting states to Mexico for all of 2010 include:
1) Texas, $163 billion
2) California, $21 billion
3) Michigan, $7 billion
4) Arizona, $5 billion
5) Illinois, $4 billion

The Arizona Star offers more about the Mexican economy and trade environment for these US States.

Mexico's Airports Show Growth

Mexico’s growth fundamentals are only poised to go up even more with a large population, strong showing in economic growth and a populous spread over a large area. Airports in Mexico are seeing strides in growth:

Each of the operators (Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico [GAP], Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste [ASUR] and Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte [OMA]) reports increased revenues, EBITDA and net profit (notably ASUR and OMA in the latter two categories) with passenger numbers up in all cases.

Funny Pics of Plane Landings

We've all had some bumps in the traveling road, let's hope this doesn't happen to you - here's a few pics of funny plane landings.

U.S., Canada and Mexico Leaders to Meet for a Trilateral Summit

After a two year hiatus, the leaders of the U.S., Canada and Mexico are set to meet for a trilateral summit. While the push for further North American integration continues incrementally, at this time, it is unlikely that discussions will yield any grand new initiatives that involve the participation of all three NAFTA partners. Instead, the meeting could be used to build off of bilateral discussions already underway. This includes negotiations between the U.S. and Canada on a North American Security perimeter deal designed to accelerate the flow of people and goods across the border.

Read more about the trilateral summit here.

Major Events in Mexico in 2012

1. 8th World Congress of the International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology
2. 30th ICOH 2012 Congress
3. 13th World Congress of Endoscopic Surgery
4. 70th World Foundry Congress
5. 34th Congress of the International Society of Hematology (ISH)
6. 12th World Congress on Biosensors
7. 24th Congress of the International Primatological Society
8. 14th World Congress of Psycho Oncology 2012
9. 17th Robocup W Championship
10. Midyear Meeting of the Interamerican Press Association (IAPA)
11. 16th RoboCup International Symposium
12. 40th International Congress on Occupational and Environmental Health in the Chemical Industry
13. 23rd Annual Conference of the Production and Operations Management Society
14. 32nd Congress of the International Society of Bloog Transfusion
15. 14th Annual AGM and Conference

To find out more information about these events check out the visitmexico website.

Best Spas in Mexico

If you need some time to relax and get pampered on your next business trip to Mexico, consider visiting one these renowned spas. From the Armonia Spa in Cabo San Lucas to the Apuane Spa at the Four Seasons, you’ll never have to look far for a spa near you! Click here for information and a full list of spas around Mexico.

CEO Favors Mexico for Business Travel

3 Reasons to Book Your Holiday Airfare Right Now

This year is not the year to put off booking your holiday airfare. Travelers should be aware of why now is the best time to book, by knowing the following airfare advice from FareCompare:

1. Airfares are Rising
In the two weeks that have just passed, U.S. airlines have launched three different airfare hikes.

2. Airlines Continue to Cut Seats

3. Beware Lengthy Advance Purchase Requirements
Of the airfare deals that do exist, many have a 21-day advance purchase stipulation.

Mexico Aiming to Export Products Directly to China

Mexico is interested in exporting products like avocado and table grape and introducing mango to China.

A group of 30 businessmen affiliated with agricultural producers, livestock, fisheries and food of Mexico started a tour in Beijing. Their aim is to boost exports without intermediaries by persuading China to sign an agreement in the Council for the Promotion of Chinese International Trade (CCPIT).

Yang Xiaodong, the general director of cooperation and development of the CCPIT, said of Mexico's economy, "Mexico has a great economy, very open, and the signing of the agreement is of great importance to strengthen pragmatic cooperation to increase mutual understanding among entrepreneurs, opportunities and the entry of their products. "

Meeting Destinations in Mexico via Orbitz Blog

Orbitz provides a helpful list of meeting destinations in Mexico for business travel. To find out more visit Orbitz Blog.

Photo Credit: Orbitz.com

The Future of Mexico's Economy is Looking Rosy

The future of Mexico's economy is looking bright with projected growth of 4.5% this year.

"The Mexican economy is outpacing some of the faster-growing regions in the world -- such as Russia -- and it is estimated that Mexico will be the eighth-largest economy in the world by 2050."

Trade With Mexico Boosts Sales for US State

TriValleyCentral.com -

A strong Mexican economy is helping Arizona keep pace with other states in export sales this year, according to recent data from the International Trade Administration.

Mexico accounted for more than a third of the state’s international trade in the first half of 2011, when Arizona’s total export sales jumped $1.2 billion, to $8.9 billion. It was the highest year-to-date increase in at least five years.

The bump in exports follows 10 years in which Arizona had the fourth-slowest growth rate among states in international trade, according to the administration’s data.

President Felipe Calderón Opens Speech for 2011 Adventure Travel World Summit

2011 Adventure Travel World Summit, an event that attracted more than 650 tourism industry professionals from 54 countries in San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico, had a V.I.P speaker this year - President Felipe Calderón. In Calderón's speech, he championed adventure travel as an important part of promoting tourism to Mexico.

Calderón made clear the importance of promoting travel to Mexico, “…I believe that if we know how to find, through adventure travel, the ability to employ those who own the land, woods, rainforests or deserts, the lakes or lagoons, that we will find a path to correcting the terrible inequalities of our country and the world.”

U.S. Embassy in Mexico Information

When traveling to Mexico the U.S. Embassy in Mexico can prove to be an important resource. Individuals traveling to Mexico should register at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico in order to receive updates on travel and safety in Mexico during their travels.

U.S. Embassy in Mexico
Paseo de la Reforma 305
Col. Cuauhtemoc
06500 Mexico, D.F.
Telephone:
From U.S.: (011-52-477) 788-7070.
From Mexico: (01-477) 788-7070.