Mexico has long attracted visitors to enjoy the beautiful weather, delicious cuisine and outstanding natural beauty. Many people end up wanting to set down roots, or buy a second home in paradise. Are you planning on making the move to Mexico? If so, read our Top 8 tips for foreigners that are new to Mexico. You will see that with a little understanding and patience, your new life can be incredibly satisfying and fulfilling.
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#1 Learn Spanish
Although many foreigners that move to Mexico don’t end up learning Spanish, it’s a great idea to try learn the basics. The more Spanish you understand will allow you to have a more complete experience and better opportunities in all areas. Language and communication between individuals creates a sense of community. Therefore, learning the local language will allow you to have a better understanding of the people around you and will deepen your cultural experience. Also, having a decent comprehension level of Spanish could allow for you to find work that you wouldn’t qualify for otherwise.
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#2 Be Cordial and Greet Properly
This tip is important no matter where you live, but if you are planning a move to Mexico, you will quickly learn that a proper greeting is so important. For example, Mexicans in general greet people with a handshake, hug and/or a kiss and a spoken greeting several times throughout the day. Start all your interactions with a friendly salutation depending on the time of day. “Buenos días” means good morning, “Buenas tardes” is good afternoon, and “Buenas noches” means good evening. In addition, you will also find that it is typical to properly greet every single person in the room when you enter a new situation before settling into any one on one discussions. Last, but not least, it is also customary to say “Provecho,” which means Bon Appetit, when you are leaving a restaurant to kindly show that you hope they enjoy their meal.
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#3 Understand and Accept Lateness
One of the best and worst parts of Mexico is that Mexicans are well known for being laid back and lackadaisical when it comes to being on time. For foreigners who want to move to Mexico, it is important to be prepared to wait on others and not be surprised if they show up late. While not all Mexicans are chronically late, it is socially acceptable and very prevalent in social situations as well as in work or school responsibilities as well. If you are ever unsure about timing, feel free to ask because you don’t want to show up on time for a party to find the host isn’t even ready for their guests. A good rule of thumb is to show up half hour to one hour later than the agreed starting time for parties and other social gatherings.
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#4 Directness is Not Culturally Common
While Americans may find it genuine and authentic to be direct, many Mexicans actually find it to be rude. For example, if you are offered food by someone, even if you aren’t hungry many people will find it be quite rude if you refuse. It may be better just to accept the food or drink and discreetly not eat it if you aren’t hungry, etc. On the flip side, you may be surprised by a lack of follow through from Mexicans who agreed to something and then did not deliver. For example, it is culturally acceptable to say “yes” to something and simply not do it later, as opposed to be open and honest from the beginning. So if friends accept an invitation to an event or gathering, don’t be or surprised disappointed if they do not come.
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#5 Don’t Be Judgemental
Being in Mexico can open your eyes to a completely different lifestyle than you were used to back in the States or Canada. Many of the problems that bother foreigners that move to Mexico the most revolve about litter and trash issues, and the lack of control in terms of animal reproduction, especially with stray cats and dogs. The truth is people from more developed countries often don’t understand that caring about the environment and animal welfare is a luxury that many native Mexicans cannot afford. While there are plenty of wealthy and well educated Mexicans who are environmentally and socially aware, many residents have very limited resources that make it difficult to provide adequate food and housing for themselves and their families. As a result, other social issues fall down the chain and become of lesser importance. A little understanding can go a long way to understand and empathize with the world around you.
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#6 Enjoy the Delicious Local Cuisine
One of the best parts about a move to Mexico is that you can enjoy incredibly tasty and affordable food. Don’t fall for the outdated belief that eating at street vendors will make you sick. Some of the best and most delicious food is found at small or local restaurants or stands. Often times, it is also the freshest option due to high turnover. Want to know how to pick the best taco vendor or restaurant? If it is crowded that’s a great sign. Be wary of restaurants that are empty.
One of the best foods in Mexico is the fresh fruit that is available all year long. Take advantage of the availability to healthy and organic produce whenever you can. Don’t miss out freshly-squeezed orange, green or carrot juices which normally only cost a buck or two for a liter.
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#7 Pursue Your Hobbies
Many foreigners that are new to Mexico are thrilled that they finally have the time to explore hobbies and interests that they enjoy the most. What kind of activities do you enjoy? Thanks to the natural beauty of Mexico, new residents will love the options available to them that include hiking, cycling, snorkeling, surfing, mountain climbing, scuba diving, gardening, photography, sewing, and so much more. In addition to outdoor activities, you can also meet new friends and sign up for workshops or courses that are offered in your area. Maybe a cooking class or art class would be right up your alley?
In general, foreigners that move to Mexico will find the country to be a wonderful place to life. In general, Mexicans are extremely kind, friendly and generous. Thanks to Mexico’s incredible landscapes, rich and diverse culture, and eclectic and tantalizing cuisine, a move to Mexico is likely to be one of the best decisions of your life. So what are you waiting for?