First Time in Mexico: What I Did, Ate & Learned About Tequila

This wasn’t a work trip — this was my birthday escape to Mexico, and I made every moment count. From the turquoise waters of Tulum to tequila tastings in Mexico City, I soaked in every colour, every flavour, and yes — I finally learned the real difference between tequila and mezcal (spoiler: they’re not just cousins, they’re distant cousins with attitude).

Whether you’re planning your own birthday trip or squeezing in a layover as cabin crew, here’s everything I did, ate, and loved on my first adventure in Mexico.

Celebrating My Birthday in Tulum

For my birthday, I escaped to Tulum with my friends and stayed in the most beautiful jungle-inspired villa — think outdoor showers, earthy textures, leafy surroundings, and a real sense of peace. It felt like something out of a dream.

We spent the day soaking up the sun, dancing barefoot, sipping cocktails, and just enjoying the soft life we deserved. Tulum has that magical blend of laid-back luxury and free-spirited charm — perfect for a celebration.

What I Did in Mexico (Beyond the Beach)

Although Tulum was the heart of my trip, I also explored Mexico City, where the culture, food, and energy swept me off my feet. My personal highlight? A deep dive into tequila and mezcal.

Tequila vs Mezcal: What I Learned

I joined a guided tasting tour and finally understood the difference:

• Tequila is made only from blue agave, and it’s usually smoother and more mainstream.
• Mezcal can be made from over 30 types of agave, with a distinct smoky flavour and more artisanal process — often roasted underground in earthen pits.

Tasting both was like learning a love language — I ended up buying a bottle of each, because… balance.

Frida Kahlo Museum

“La Casa Azul” in Coyoacán was a personal highlight. Walking through Frida’s home, studio, and garden gave me a deeper sense of her artistry and pain. The colours, the relics, the vibe — it’s spiritual.

Mercado Madness

From the food carts in the city to beachside ceviche in Tulum, I ate everything. Elote, tacos, churros, mole, spicy mango. ESPECIALLY the mango with Tajin — I was in mango heaven.

What I Ate (and Fell in Love With)

Tacos Al Pastor

Charred pork, pineapple, fresh cilantro, and a squirt of lime. Pure joy in tortilla form.

Pozole

A soul-soothing stew made with hominy, meat, and toppings like radish and lettuce. A Mexican must-try.

Mole

A rich sauce with over 20 ingredients (including chocolate and chillies). Deep, dark, and divine.

Fresh Juices + Mezcal Cocktails

From hibiscus agua frescas to smoky mezcal margaritas, every drink was a vibe.

What I Loved Most

The Villa Vibes in Tulum

Waking up in our jungle-style villa, hearing birds, feeling the breeze, and showering under the open sky — it was grounding, luxurious, and exactly what I needed. Being there with my good friends made it even more special.

Learning Tequila’s Story

It’s more than a party drink — tequila and mezcal have roots, and learning about their production and heritage made me appreciate every sip.

The Culture Everywhere

Whether it was street music, vibrant murals, or the warmth of the people, Mexico felt alive and welcoming. It’s a country with so much soul.

Cabin Crew Tips (Even for Holiday Makers)

Even though this was a personal trip, I always travel with a cabin crew mindset — here’s what helped:

• Hydrate, especially at altitude – tequila + sun + sightseeing = stay sipping water.
• Use Uber over street taxis – safer and cheaper in most cities.
• Have cash on hand – many markets and street vendors are cash-only.
• I speak fluent Spanish, which definitely helped me connect and get around with ease — but if you don’t, don’t worry:
  • In Tulum, most people working in tourism speak basic English, and you can get by with broken Spanish and a smile.
  • Download Google Translate, save key phrases, and you’ll be fine.
• Food safety tip – eat where it’s busy and locals are queuing = fresh & safe.
• Pace yourself with tequila – it sneaks up on you faster than a flight delay.

Would I Go Back?

In a heartbeat. I want to explore Oaxaca next for mezcal distilleries, or return to Tulum for a proper wellness retreat. Mexico has something for every mood — beachy, bougie, soulful, spicy.

Want to See the Vibe?

You can catch my Mexico birthday adventures, tequila tastings, and taco tours over on Instagram @travelwithtillyah — check out my Mexico highlight for all the glow, mezcal and magic.

Been to Mexico?

Tell me your favourite city, dish, or cocktail! I’m collecting stories for my next trip, and if you’re a crew member heading there for a layover, I’ve got tips on demand.

Travel With Tillyah Recommends:

• Best time to visit: November–April (dry season)
• Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
• Useful apps: Jetpac (roaming is needed), Google Maps, Google Translate
• Perfect for: Birthday trips, foodies, art lovers, cultural travellers
• Safety rating: 4 out pof 5 (keep your wits about you; everywhere is safe if you act like a local)

Til my next ‘first time in..’ look after yourself!

Tillyah x