Ancestry Journeys: 12 Countries Welcoming Heritage Travelers

8. Mexico — Living relatives and municipal records

For many U.S. visitors of Hispanic descent, Mexico offers immediate, living connections—relatives in towns, old family homes, and municipal records that can confirm family ties. Civil registration (registro civil) and church records (baptisms, marriages) are primary sources. Because record-keeping practices vary by state and municipality, local clerks and municipal offices often handle requests in person. Practical planning steps include gathering U.S. documents with place names for initial leads, contacting relatives or local authorities before arrival, and hiring a local researcher if needed. Language ability helps, or bring an interpreter. Many visitors combine family visits with heritage tours that showcase regional culture, food, and festivals, which adds meaningful context to document-based research. Safety and travel logistics vary by region, so check up-to-date travel advisories and plan accommodations accordingly.