Millions of people travel to Mexico every year and it has remained a top vacation destination because of its stunning natural landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rich history. And, while there is much to be explored in the country, travelers shouldn't ignore important facts that can make for a safe and responsible trip.

Travelers staying in and around top vacation spots in Mexico like Cancun and Los Cabos should know that they probably won't be getting a true and authentic Mexican experience. If tourists really want to see Mexican culture and meet the locals, consider traveling to safe cities in the country's interior. Also, travelers should keep in mind that while they shouldn't worry about serious danger, they should know that petty crime does exist, so use common sense and learn your surroundings.

There are numerous facts about Mexico that travelers should be aware of. Most importantly, always do your research before traveling to Mexico and don't let rumors about the nation ruin your trip.

Here are 12 facts about Mexico anyone traveling to the country shouldn't ignore.

12 Don't Expect Authentic Mexican Culture At Resorts

Mexico's resorts and hotels are some of the best places to vacation, but tourists won't find a ton of real and authentic Mexican culture within these places. If travelers want to really experience Mexico, its culture, food and people, they should head into the country's interior. Mexico City, the nation's capital, Puebla, and Oaxaca are just some of the best destinations in Mexico that are safe and will give tourists some of the best authentic Mexican experiences.

11 The National Anthem Is A Huge Deal

Mexico is a very patriotic country and will fine anyone that incorrectly plays the national anthem of Mexico, or himno nacional mexicano. There are many chapters in its law that state how to correctly play the anthem, and if you do it wrong, you can be fined or you have to apologize to the country.

10 Tourist-Friendly Places Are Not Always Safe

Millions of people travel to Mexico for vacation every year. If travelers are worried about traveling to Mexico because of high crime and cartels, they really shouldn't be. Travelers should just do their research and avoid any areas that are known to be dangerous. While petty crime does occur in many tourist-friendly places, tourists should use common sense and don't do things you wouldn't do at home.

9 Local Police May Not Act If You're A Victim Of Crime

There are some disturbing reports on local police not acting on crimes committed against tourists while staying in Mexican resorts and even resort staff resisting contacting the police when these situations occur. This should definitely be an eye-opener for anyone traveling to Mexico, or any other part of the world. Simply be aware of your surroundings and use common sense.

8 Mexico's History Is Extremely Important

Tourists should really dive in and learn about the rich history of Mexico instead of lounging around on a beach for their entire trip. In Mexico City alone, travelers can find 160 museums that showcase the nation's history. Mexico is also home to 34 UNESCO World Heritage Sites because of its extensive ancient history and rich biodiversity.

7 Tourists Might Feel An Earthquake

Mexico is one of the most seismically active countries in the world as it sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire. The Ring of Fire that encircles the Pacific Ocean has the most active volcanoes on Earth and Mexico has 42 volcanoes and numerous inactive ones. Over the past century, the nation has seen 19 earthquakes.

6 Don't Drink The Water

Most people already know this, but for those that do not, travelers to Mexico should not drink tap water. Mexico's tap water is not safe to drink because it is contaminated with bacteria, some of it deadly. While people consume water from plastic water bottles, consider bringing a portable water bottle and check if the hotel has a water-purifying station.

5 Business Hours May Not Be What You're Used To

If travelers are staying in Mexico's interior, like Mexico City or Oaxaca, they'll learn that most cafes or breakfast shops won't be open until 8 a.m. on the weekdays and not until 9 a.m. on the weekends. If travelers are early birds, they should either buy a few items the night before or visit a street vendor in the morning that'll be happy to serve you something tasty.

4 There Is A Lot More To Do Than Lay On A Beach

There is so much to do in Mexico that tourists will probably need to extend their stay for a couple of more days. Instead of laying in a beach chair all day, consider going scuba diving to see beautiful reefs, colorful fish and even this spectacular underwater museum. If going underwater isn't your thing, visit Magic Towns, or Pueblos Magicos, which are small cities or towns like stunning Tulum or San Miguel de Allende.

Related: What You Need To Know Before You Go Scuba Diving In Mexico

3 Travelers Should Always Carry Pesos

Credit cards are accepted in most places in Mexico, but cash rules here. Whether you plan on shopping at local markets, eat at a small restaurant or shop at a boutique, travelers should carry pesos at all times. Travelers will make the best use of their money by exchanging it and using pesos.

Related: 10 Aztec Structures And Sites You Can Visit In Mexico Today (5 Mayan)

2 Tipping Works The Same In Mexico Like It Does In The U.S.

Tipping in Mexico is pretty much similar to tipping in the United States. The tip a traveler provides is up to them and how their service was received. And, while tourists can tip with the U.S. dollar, pesos are a lot more acceptable for the person receiving the tip, and tourists will be saving these workers the trip to a currency exchange.

Related: These All-Inclusive Resorts In Mexico Have The Best Trip Advisor Reviews

1 Mexico Has A Level 2 Warning For Travel, But So Does Germany And France

The U.S. Department of State issued Mexico a level 2 warning when traveling to the country, urging travelers to exercise extreme caution because of crime, kidnapping, and has noted some of the most dangerous places in Mexico that are best avoided. However, popular European destinations such as Germany and France, have the same level 2 warning.

Next: 10 Safest Vacation Destinations In Mexico (5 Not Worth Considering)