When you hear the term Southwest in the United States, you generally think of desert and cactus landscapes, Spanish and Mexican culture, and the vast land bathed in unique sunlight. In fact, there is no absolute standard for exactly where the "Southwest" begins and ends. This is because it is a concept formed by a mix of geographical, cultural, and historical elements. However, generally, the following states are often considered part of the Southwest in the U.S.

1. Arizona

2. New Mexico

3. Western Texas

4. Western Oklahoma

Additionally, Nevada, Utah, southern Colorado, and southeastern California are also sometimes classified as part of the "broad Southwest." So, you can think of it as a region that primarily embodies the feeling of "western desert terrain, Mexican culture, and the history of the Spanish colonial period."

Official Distinctions vs. Cultural Perception

– Official Census Bureau Classification: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana are grouped as "West South Central," while Arizona and New Mexico are included in the "Mountain West" category. However, this is an administrative classification and may differ from what people commonly refer to as the "Southwest."

– Cultural and Historical Distinction: The term "Southwest" encompasses areas where the "Spanish and Mexican heritage" is strongly present, and where dry desert and wilderness terrain predominates.

Characteristics of the Southwest

1. Natural Environment: Generally characterized by a dry and hot climate. There are many famous desert terrains like the Sonoran Desert. The landscape is typically represented by cacti (especially the saguaro cactus) and rocky mountains.

2. Cultural Diversity: From Native Americans (Navajo, Hopi, Pueblo, etc.) to the historical remnants of the Spanish colonial era and Mexican territory, there are many Spanish place names and Spanish-style architecture.

3. Cuisine: Tex-Mex cuisine such as tacos, enchiladas, and chimichangas has developed, characterized by the heavy use of chili peppers and spices.

4. Cities: Desert cities in the Southwest, such as Phoenix (Arizona), Albuquerque (New Mexico), and Tucson (Arizona) are representative, and El Paso in western Texas also showcases a unique border city culture.

Ultimately, it is difficult to define the "Southwest of the United States" as a single entity, but you can think of it as a region that has traces of Spanish cultural influence + vast deserts and dry terrain + a unique history of the western frontier. The United States is so large, and each state has its own regional characteristics, so this kind of 'loose' geographical classification is common.

When it comes to travel or understanding American culture, this Southwest region offers a different charm compared to other places. If you enjoy desert landscapes, cacti, hot sunny drives, and spicy food that you can taste locally, I highly recommend visiting the Southwest at least once.