9781422286944

3

Tourists enjoy the beach at Cancún, one of Mexico’s most popular resorts. Each year, more than 20 million foreigners visit Mexico.

The States of Mexico

M exico’s 31 states and capital city make up a land of rich diversity. The geography of this land is as varied as its people, for it contains deserts and tropical jungles, beaches and mountains, lava fields and deep-sea fishing resorts. The land is sprinkled with ancient archeological wonders, ethnic festivals, and world-famous art. No wonder Mexico is a favorite vacation spot for so many people. Baja California Norte If you were to enter Mexico at its most western northern border, directly below San Diego, California, you would find yourself in the Mexican state of Baja California Norte. Tijuana is the border city that would give you your first glimpse of Mexican culture. Tijuana, however, is like no other Mexican city. Although it is only the fourth largest Mexican city, it boasts the largest growth rate in the country. Mexicans from all over the country come to Tijuana, hoping to find a job in the many factories that send their wastes into the air and land around the city. Tijuana is dirty and not very pretty; there is not enough housing for the flocks of people that have come looking for work, and many make do with shacks built from

23