Monterrey - Culture

Monterrey Mexico is the capital of the state of Nuevo León, it is considered one of the three most important cities in Mexico, for its great managerial and financial vigour. Monterrey is a metropolis with a population of nearly 1,500,000. Monterrey lies about 150 miles from the American border in Texas, and the city is known for being decisively pro-US when it comes to business practice. For this reason, it is the most favoured city for business travellers outside of the capital. In case anyone forgets the source of local civic pride, the town's largest monument - El Faro del Comercio ("The Lighthouse of Commerce") provides an unforgettable reminder.

As capital of the industrial state of Nuevo Leon and Mexico's third largest city, Monterrey's "heart beat" is important for Mexico's economic development. The city is a major industrial center and produces 25 percent of Mexico's products. Business in Monterrey is done American style, and locals typically prefer the government to stay as far away from their businesses as possible. In addition to the every- day wheelings and dealings, major conventions are also constantly being held in the city, making it a perfect place to network with people from all over Mexico and Latin America. The city is also famous for its giant exhibition hall, the Cintermex and the Monterrey Institute of Technology - Mexico's.

Huasteca Canyon, famous for its beautiful mountains and wind-carved rock formations. There is also Horsetail Falls, a series of three wispy waterfalls that mist down a mossy face.

Monterrey's traditions are centered around the cement, glass, steel and beer industries that flourished in this vibrant city. Its proximity to the border at Laredo, Texas offers an easy way for exports to US markets. Monterrey's financial community and contribution drive the local manufacture of products and impact Mexico's overall economy significantly.

Monterrey's nightlife centers around bars and cantinas where you can listen to live jazz, rock, mariachis, and other varieties of music. There are usually cultural shows playing at one of the city's night clubs or theaters. There are also plenty of modern discos.

To revitalize the downtown area, a forty acre site was cleared and the "Macro Plaza" was built. Modern buildings surround the square which is filled with fountains, statues, resting grounds and other accoutrements.

The Technological Institute of Superior Studies, commonly known as "El Tec" is Mexico's equivalent of the Harvard Business School, Wharton School of Finance and other equivalent learning institutions. Businessmen's habits resemble those of their US counterparts more than those of their Mexican colleagues.

Though somewhat bereft of local natural attractions, Monterrey is the gateway for white-wing dove hunting and bass fishing expeditions to the state of Tamaulipas.