World's Largest Ice-Skating Rink Opens in Mexico City

Mexico City has opened the world's largest ice-skating rink in The Plaza de la Constitucion (commonly known as Zocalo Square). Although Guinness hasn't verified the claim, no one's about to dispute it either. The massive rink measures 3,200 sq meters. Whether or not it's actually the largest ice rink in the world, it certainly adds some Christmas cheer to the Mexican capital.

People there can have a skate on the huge rink for free, if they're prepared to wait in the long queues for their turn! Around 14,000 people are expected to go for a skate every day.

And to complete the larger-than-life winter wonderland there is a 50-metre high Christmas tree, toboggan slide and a huge snow area...

City mayor Marcelo Ebrard says the attraction, which drew millions of visitors last year, provides entertainment for families on low incomes.

Rockefeller Center, eat your heart out. With a holiday display like that, the big wigs in NYC are bound to have some Christmas tree envy.

But in all seriousness, the powers-that-be in Mexico City have provided a valuable, family-oriented service to the community. Despite its smoggy reputation, the city has countless attractions to offer tourists.

There are outstanding museums, the nearby pyramids of Teotihuacan, the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico (a spectacular presentation of Mexican music and dance) and much much more. If you've never considered a trip to Mexico City, currently falling airfares, rich culture and an enormous ice-skating rink are all great reasons to spend Christmas south of the border.