Latest Modification Date: 1/2/24
Starting a new life in Mexico, just like any other country, is an exciting journey with many challenges and cultural barriers you should consider beforehand.
Sure, every experience comes with its own mistakes to learn from, but if you are looking for an easy transition to your new home, these useful tips will help you through a smooth start.
1.- Not trying to learn the language.
Many people in Mexico can speak English at a casual or even a professional level, and you can get through asking basic questions such as “¿cuánto cuesta?” (how much does it cost?) or “¿dónde está el baño?” (where is the restroom?), but the best way to fully enrich your time in the country is to learn the language.
Mexicans are usually friendly and try to help foreigners as much as they can, learning Spanish will also allow you to have a better understanding of the culture, and traditions and show respect to the people around you.
Locals are willing to teach you Spanish in personalized or small group classes, or language schools you can sign up for.
Remember that while English is taught in some schools, not everyone in Mexico has access to the language and you should always be mindful of the locals.
2.- Not visiting the city or area you are interested in moving to before deciding.
Social media videos or pictures may make a place sound very appealing, but the reality may be different. What if you don’t like the place or the weather? What if you can’t find any of your unnegotiables?
While many people are willing to risk everything and have an adventurous experience, moving without knowing every detail may not be for everyone.
3.- Getting legal advice online.
While social media or websites can provide a general idea of certain topics regarding legal matters such as paperwork, residence permits, or anything related to the law, they are often too general. Consider that your case may be different from someone else’s and people in Facebook groups (or elsewhere) tend to think they’re experts when they are probably not. This is a big red flag to look out for.
Every case is different, so if you have the opportunity it’s always better to seek a professional who can resolve doubts for your specific case. Remember we all have different experiences based on many backgrounds, so you should not take online words for granted.
4.- Renting out a space without seeing it in person.
If you’ve already decided where you are moving to or even have a stable job offer by now, your natural next step would be to find a place to live.
At least for the first few weeks, many Expats go for an Airbnb rental first so they can first get to know the area and its movement. After that, they start looking for an apartment that they can get to see in person (pictures may be deceiving), talk to the landlord, and make a deal.
Also, make sure everything is legal and real before making a payment. Like in every country, scams happen every day.
5.- Staying in your comfort zone.
Moving your way back and forth to work, or even to a store or meeting friends for dinner is ok, but if you want to experience life in Mexico like the locals do, step out of your comfort zone.
Plan weekend getaways to nearby towns or beaches, go to concerts, to the theatre or artsy events, walk your way through the market (Walmart will never be the same as a local Mercado), buy from people in the street, ask questions, talk to people apart from your coworkers.
Try the food! Mexico has such a rich gastronomy you don’t want to miss out on and while your stomach may need a bit of getting used to the spicyness, it’s worthwhile. Xpats can help you at any time, feel free to contact us!
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5 mistakes Expats should avoid when moving to Mexico
November 14, 2023
Jean G. Fowler
5 mistakes Expats should avoid when moving to Mexico
November 14, 2023
Jean G. Fowler
Starting a new life in Mexico, just like any other country, is an exciting journey with many challenges and cultural barriers you should consider beforehand.
Sure, every experience comes with its own mistakes to learn from, but if you are looking for an easy transition to your new home, these useful tips will help you through a smooth start.
1.- Not trying to learn the language.
Many people in Mexico can speak English at a casual or even a professional level, and you can get through asking basic questions such as “¿cuánto cuesta?” (how much does it cost?) or “¿dónde está el baño?” (where is the restroom?), but the best way to fully enrich your time in the country is to learn the language.
Mexicans are usually friendly and try to help foreigners as much as they can, learning Spanish will also allow you to have a better understanding of the culture, and traditions and show respect to the people around you.
Locals are willing to teach you Spanish in personalized or small group classes, or language schools you can sign up for.
Remember that while English is taught in some schools, not everyone in Mexico has access to the language and you should always be mindful of the locals.
2.- Not visiting the city or area you are interested in moving to before deciding.
Social media videos or pictures may make a place sound very appealing, but the reality may be different. What if you don’t like the place or the weather? What if you can’t find any of your unnegotiables?
While many people are willing to risk everything and have an adventurous experience, moving without knowing every detail may not be for everyone.
3.- Getting legal advice online.
While social media or websites can provide a general idea of certain topics regarding legal matters such as paperwork, residence permits, or anything related to the law, they are often too general. Consider that your case may be different from someone else’s and people in Facebook groups (or elsewhere) tend to think they’re experts when they are probably not. This is a big red flag to look out for.
Latest Modification Date: 1/2/24
Every case is different, so if you have the opportunity it’s always better to seek a professional who can resolve doubts for your specific case. Remember we all have different experiences based on many backgrounds, so you should not take online words for granted.
4.- Renting out a space without seeing it in person.
If you’ve already decided where you are moving to or even have a stable job offer by now, your natural next step would be to find a place to live.
At least for the first few weeks, many Expats go for an Airbnb rental first so they can first get to know the area and its movement. After that, they start looking for an apartment that they can get to see in person (pictures may be deceiving), talk to the landlord, and make a deal.
Also, make sure everything is legal and real before making a payment. Like in every country, scams happen every day.
5.- Staying in your comfort zone.
Moving your way back and forth to work, or even to a store or meeting friends for dinner is ok, but if you want to experience life in Mexico like the locals do, step out of your comfort zone.
Plan weekend getaways to nearby towns or beaches, go to concerts, to the theatre or artsy events, walk your way through the market (Walmart will never be the same as a local Mercado), buy from people in the street, ask questions, talk to people apart from your coworkers.
Try the food! Mexico has such a rich gastronomy you don’t want to miss out on and while your stomach may need a bit of getting used to the spicyness, it’s worthwhile. Xpats can help you at any time, feel free to contact us!
