Ten Things I Learned South-of-the-Border

1) Always greet people with a big smile, a hug, and an air-kiss on the cheek.
(Unless you're a guy greeting a guy. Then, skip the kiss.)
Such a warm welcome makes everyone feel loved and sets a great tone for your visit.

2) Don't worry about what the clock says. Everyone will arrive eventually, and you'll have a fun time.

3) Always have someone with you who speaks the native language.

4) If you don't have someone with you who speaks the native language, prepare ahead of time what you need to say. And practice charades, as they might come in handy.

5) If all else fails, smile and say, "Lo siento. No hablo espanol." Then hope ellos hablan ingles.

6) Paper Mexican pesos are sometimes worth the same amount as pesos in coin form. For some gringos who are accustomed to larger coins being worth only a quarter of a low-valued bill, this can be a tricky concept.

7) Never assume that a car will stop at an intersection just because it contains a "STOP" sign.

8) Cross the street at your own risk. (See #7.)

9) Appreciate everything you have. Many people work much harder for a lot less.

And finally...

10) Although K and W are somewhat rare, the Alphabet Game is much easier to play in Mexico than the United States because J, Q, and Z are everywhere! (Especially in Queretaro.)