In part one of this series we defined the United Mexican States as comprising of 31 states and one federal district of Mexico City. We discussed the history of Mexico City as it relates to culture, population and politics. Now let us explore the 31 states of the country.

Florida is a wonderfully diverse state. The subtropical climate means warmth and sun, but it also means hurricanes and alligators. The world’s third largest coral reef is in Floridian waters, as are the elusive Manatees, Mahi Mahi and hundreds of other endemic species. The people of Florida are just as varied, in culture and ideals. The region is home to some of the country’s oddest attractions, a few of which we covered in the part one of this series. Now let’s continue.

The Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. Its history of Spanish, French and Haitian occupation can be found in many aspects of Dominican culture. In addition, there are still many monuments and historical buildings documenting significant conflicts. The largest presence felt in these locations is undoubtedly Spanish. Understandable considering they were the first and most frequent European entity to set foot on the island.

There has been a lot talk on the web lately about Florida having the highest incidence of weird news. Not just in quantity but in the quality of weirdness as well. Remember the bikini-clad lady who had a temper tantrum at McDonald’s because she thought her service was too slow? That was in Florida. Or how about the American Alligator that showed up in Venice, Florida covered in bright orange paint? Yes, the Sunshine State seems to be home to some very odd happenings. It seems fitting then, that there are several decidedly odd attractions.

Jamaica is a tropical paradise populated with a friendly and generous people. The surrounding countryside and ocean waters are an ethereal blue that seems to go on forever. Any smart traveler planning a trip to a foreign country will no doubt investigate the necessity of vaccines and be sure to arrange them in advance of the departure date. In addition to smart packing, currency exchange and passport renewal, what else needs to be done? For starters, the native language should be studied, and possible hazards to avoid. After all, no matter how beautiful a place is, it cannot be completely 100% void of danger.

According to the latest television commercials by Las Vegas tourism authorities, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Surely they are referring to the adventures of small-town business people and girls-weekend attendees who do things far outside of their comfort zone. Let us turn the statement around and consider the happenings in Vegas that work in favour of the traveler. What little known tidbits of information are floating around just waiting to be grabbed by those seeking a bit of an extra lift while in Vegas? Well, we have a few of them here! Take note.

For those readers who are new to the world of vaping, let us enlighten you! Vaping involves the use of an electronic cigarette, or e-cigarette, which serves to imitate the act of smoking without actually producing any smoke. The e-cigarette is comprised of a cartridge, an atomizer and a battery unit. The atomizer contains a heating coil heating a small amount of oil (or juice) in an inserted cartridge. The heating coil is powered by the battery unit. When the oil is heated it releases a vapour into the atomizer, ready for the user to inhale. Cartridges are available in a multitude of flavours, some with nicotine and some without.

Myrtle Beach is a lovely resort town in South Carolina, lying on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The beginnings of the resort aspect of the town are rooted in the lumber industry of the early 20th century, as it was a popular weekend getaway destination for loggers. The wide, flat and sandy beaches were a draw for more than just vacationers though.

In this next article in the series we will discover the origin of the Tabasco pepper, the home of a famous big band song and the previous home of the Viceroyalty of New Spain. Without looking below, can you guess which states we are speaking of? Even the most learned may not guess correctly, so lets continue.

In part one and two of this series we discussed the early history of the Florida region. Since the days of discovery in the 1631 the land on the panhandle has experience nothing but war and bloodshed. By 1920 things had settled down, national economy was prospering and people were beginning to travel to Florida for its warm climate. Then disaster struck once again.

The history of Jamaica begins with indigenous peoples, (such as the Arawak and Taino Indians), is then thrust into British colonization, African slavery, and eventually independence. Of course that is just a rudimentary account, but each of the aforementioned eras contributed to the food of Jamaica. Many people who have not been to the island assume every thing is covered in jerk spice and served with a side of rum. Not so. Here, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions concerning Jamaican cuisine.

In parts one and two of this series we covered the administrative definitions of the political boundaries in the United Mexican States, including the State of Mexico, the Federal District of Mexico City, the State of Oaxaca and the State of Guanajuato. Let’s continue our journey through the defining elements of the other states.

Los Angeles, California has five major sports venues and ten professional sports teams. There are also a multitude of amateur sports teams, clubs and organizations in LA, as well as those in the outlying areas. It is likely the history of sport in California began with the aboriginal peoples, but it appears the beginnings of organized professional sports in LA started with the National Football League in 1926. As we continue, we will take a brief look at the various professional sports present in the city today.

In 1791 the Bishop of Guadalajara established a complex called the Hospicio Cabanas in Guadalajara, Mexico that was designed to fulfill four needs of the community: workhouse, almshouse, orphanage and hospital. Basically it was a catch-all for the civic requirements of the people. Although there was at least an informal form of healthcare available before 1791, the Hospicio Cabanas is considered the first ‘official’ hospital complex in Mexico and is now a World Heritage Site.

Jamaican culture isn’t all reggae and marijuana. In fact there are elements of Jamaican culture that some may find surprising. For example, most people are not aware of the long history of superior craftsmanship in wood. Highly ornate furniture and sculptures have long been a part of Jamaican culture, going as far back as Spanish colonialism. Here, we will address many of the frequently asked questions concerning culture, that appear on some of the most popular Jamaican forums.