-long mustaches
-drink lots of tequila
-eat lots of beans, and frequently sneak into the United States
-the mariachi bands tend to have a fat guy playing the mariachi
-all mexicans are 5 feet tall
-all mexicans wear cowboy boots; all year long
-they like to dance a lot

Expectations:

Going to Mexico has been a dream of mine for a long time. While in Merida, I expect to learn many new things and immerse myself in Mexican culture. While there, I am going to become fluent in Spanish, and hopefully I will make many friends. I am anxious to eat real Mexican food and go to the brewery in Merida. I am also excited for the trips to the Aztec pyramids and other excursions I will be going on, such as travel to Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Overall, I think this is going to be an awesome experience. I expect to have a lot of fun and learn in the process.

After Merida:

Expectations:

My stereotypes have changed vastly since I've been in Merida. All Mexicans do not wear cowboy boots. They are a very civilized nation, and have a much more advanced culture than I had thought. All of my stereotypes were shattered. I did not meet one Mexican who had snuck into the United States.

Stereotypes:

All of my expectations came true. I met a lot of cool people and learned a lot of Spanish. I was able to visit places such as Isla de Mujeres and Chiapas. I had a lot of fun in Mexico. The trip was very enjoyable, and it was run very well. I would definately come back to Merida.