So visitors expecting an antique colonial gem will surely be disappointed. The capital city is, however, clean, modern, friendly, business-like, and upwardly mobile. It is safe for tourists and residents alike. The Chiapanecos of Tuxtla Gutierrez are administrators, government officials, business owners, shop keepers, teachers, and students. There are numerous universities and colleges here.
Business schools abound, as do schools which teach English.
Every major bank in Mexico has several busy branches and the age of computerization is evident everywhere. There are at least three cyber cafes from which you can check your e-mail or catch up on the news from Mexico Connect. These cost about 15 pesos per hour. There are upscale department stores, supermarkets, and suburban-style malls. And, of course, there are also several large, crowded, smelly, exciting traditional Mexican mercados which offer everything from seafood and sausages, religious icons and candles, to fresh fruits and local flowers.