In 2005 Mexico City had a population of 19.2 million, making it the largest metropolitan area in the western hemisphere and the second largest in the World.

Mexico City, called DF (for Distrito Federal; Federal District) or simply Mexico, is the capital, seat of government and the center of commerce, finance and the arts.

Located 2,239m (7,347 ft.) high, on an enormous dry lakebed in a highland valley surrounded by mountains, this was the center of power of pre-Hispanic America, and it remains one of the most dynamic, fascinating, and charismatic cities in the world today. Originally a "floating city", served by a large and complex network of canals when it was the epicenter of the Aztec empire; today, the nation's capital is one of the world's most populous mega-cities on our planet.

Mexico city goes on for as far as the eye can see: if you fly in at night, it's like gliding over an enormous ocean of never-ending lights (as you can see in the Map of Mexico City) .

The Zócalo is the vital wrist of Mexico City that beats at every time of the day and the night: at sunrise, the trumpets of the National Guard hoists the immense flag of Mexico and than the day begins.

For general entertainment, Mexico City will fulfill just about any activity you have in mind that can logistically be catered for in an urban area. The nightlife is stunning and varied; during the day you can play sports, go to a funfair, ice-skate or play golf... go horse racing, watch movies, experience a huge selection of festivals and events and much more...

Mexico City hotels and accommodations ranging from fine world-class resorts, to colonial inns and stately Old World hotels. Dining and shopping are first rate and the city's spring-like climate invites visitors year round.

All the best and worst aspects of Mexico are found here:

• Music and noise
• Polluted air and green spaces
• Colonial palaces and skyscrapers,
• World-renowned museums and ever-spreading slums

One moment Mexico City, is all Latin rhythms, glamour and excitement. The next moment, it is drabness, poverty, suffocating crowds and stale smells.

Despite the negative points, Mexico City is a magnet for Mexicans and visitors alike. It is impossible to be bored in such a complex city.