UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, maintains a list of sites around the world that are considered to be of outstanding universal value, with the purpose of identifying and seeking to protect and preserve these special places. Sites considered for inclusion on the list must go through a lengthy nomination process and are evaluated by a committee before they are accepted. Sites can also be removed from the list, which happened for the first time this year, when the Dresden Elbe Valley in Germany was removed from the list due to the construction of a four-lane bridge in the heart of its cultural landscape.

There are 25 cultural sites and four natural sites in Mexico that UNESCO has identified as world heritage sites. It's not surprising that Mexico has so many sites on UNESCO's list considering its rich history and culture, as well as its gorgeous landscapes. Among the places in Mexico that are included are archaeological sites, colonial cities and outstanding buildings and natural areas. Read more about Mexico's World Heritage Sites. And to read more about other world heritage sites around the globe, check out About.com's latest blog carnival put together by About.com's Guide to Italy Travel, Martha Bakerjian: UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world.

If you're planning a short getaway you may just go to one destination and stay there the whole time, but if you have a bit more time and are hoping to see more of Mexico, you'll have to deal with transportation. Getting around Mexico can be a challenge, but it's worth it to experience more of what the country has to offer.

Bus Travel in Mexico
Bus travel has long been the favorite way to travel within Mexico. It's a cheap and efficient way to get around, however, bus service can vary greatly - from sleek modern coaches to retired school buses.

• Taking the bus in Mexico
• Mexico City Bus Stations

Air Travel in Mexico
For years Mexico's two major airlines dominated the country's air travel industry, but in recent years several discount airlines have come on the scene. Mexican airlines offer flexibility at competitive prices for travelers, but purchasing tickets can be rather complicated as there's no centralized system to help you find routes and fares. You'll have to visit each airline's website to search for the information you need. Click through the links below for more information about Mexico air travel.

• Finding Routes and Fares
• Mexican Airlines
• Mexico City Airport

Women traveling in Mexico, especially those traveling alone, have some particular concerns. Despite women's advances in the public and legal spheres, the Mexican "macho" culture is still strong and stereotypes about foreign women may affect the way women are treated. Generally this just means that women attract more attention than they may like, being subject to catcalls on the streets and ardently pursued by would-be suitors. If this attention makes you uncomfortable, there are a few simple strategies you can take to have a more pleasant vacation.

Read more: Tips for Women Travelers to Mexico

There are plenty of festivals taking place in the month of July this year. Two of this month's most noteworthy happenings are the Guelaguetza festival in Oaxaca, and the Short Expressions Film Festival in San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato.

Oaxaca hosts a traditional folk festival every year during the last two weeks of July, called the Guelaguetza. For this event, representatives of the state's various ethnic groups perform traditional dances and celebrate the traditions that make them unique. There are many other events that take place aside from the main Guelaguetza show, and visitors to Oaxaca at this time of year have plenty of options for activities and entertainment.

The Short Expressions Film Festival takes place in the cities of San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato City from July 24 to August 2nd. This is a major event in the world of film, the largest film festival in Mexico, with over 400 films screened, all free of charge. The theme for this year's festival is "Greenlighting," with a focus on responsible environmental practices; and British film director Peter Greenaway will be honored with a tribute.

Read more:

• July Festivals and Events in Mexico
• Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca
• Film Festivals in Mexico