As a whole, New Mexicans are fairly low key. And, since we have a population density of only 17.2 people per square mile, it’s usually easier to escape annoying people than to deal with them. However, certain assumptions and actions bug us. Or, in the case of number 10, make us hotter than our legendary chile peppers. If you’d like to make a good impression, don’t do the following things:

1. Act as if New Mexico is in a foreign country.

Everyone hopefully knows that there are 50 states in the U.S. Yet a surprising number of people fail to realize that New Mexico is one of them. We’re sick of explaining that we’ve been a state since 1912.

Inquiring minds want to know: what imaginary state are people using in place of New Mexico in order to get to 50? South Oregon?

2. Congratulate us on our English.

Sure, many New Mexicans are multilingual, but assuming that we don’t speak English (because we’re part of Mexico, obviously) is really annoying.

3. Ask whether U.S. citizens need passports to visit New Mexico.

The correct response to this question is: "yes, and a visa." Bonus points if you can deliver the line with a straight face.

4. Insist that chile is spelled chili.

Chili is a dish that comes from Texas or Cincinnati, while chile is the type of pepper that makes our food fabulous.

5. Claim that Colorado chile is better.

Seriously, just hit I-25 and keep driving north.

6. Complain that the food here is too spicy.

Don’t expect a refund if you can’t handle the heat. When in doubt, ask for chile on the side.

7. Assume that we use meth or can hook you up.

Hate to burst your bubble, but "Breaking Bad" was fictional.

8. Waste water.

Water is a precious commodity in New Mexico. You’ll encounter New Mexicans who use all sorts of neat, water-saving tricks like keeping a jug in the shower to collect water for plants. So don’t squander the stuff or describe the numerous ways you waste it at home. We won’t be impressed.

9. Litter.

Our landscapes are beautiful so leave no trace.

10. Toss a cigarette butt from your car window.

Hello, WILDFIRES. We wouldn’t torch your house so don’t set our home on fire.

11. Assume we live in Albuquerque or Santa Fe.

There are loads of other places in New Mexico, from larger cities like Las Cruces to the many adorable, tiny towns scattered throughout our state.

12. Ask if we’ve seen a UFO or alien.

Yes, there’s one right behind you.

13. Disturb archeological ruins.

New Mexico contains numerous ruins, especially old pueblos and missions. If you find any pottery shards or arrowheads, DO NOT MOVE THEM. It’s not finders keepers, and taking anything for yourself is a big no-no. Even picking up surface artifacts makes it harder for archeologists to learn about a site.

Which of these drive you nuts?

If you found yourself agreeing with some of these points, you’ll probably get a kick out of 12 ways to spot a tourist in New Mexico!