1) Mexico has 34 UNESCO heritage sights!
For those that is curious like me, the UNESCO selection process begins with participating countries submitting reports that detail the sites they feel belong on the World Heritage Site list. There are 10 criterias that must be on the list, six for cultural sites and four for natural sites. A site must meet at least one criterion to be included and is updated and published at least every two years.
Twenty-seven of Mexico’s sites are cultural, six are natural and one is mixed. Italy has the most World Heritage List sites, 53. China is second with 52, followed by Spain, France, Germany and India. Mexico is seventh in the world with 34, but is first in the Americas.
Being an expat in Mexico means having proximity to many of these amazing World Heritage sites!
2) Mexico is safer than what the news make it seem
I have to admit I had concerned about safety before moving here. It makes sense that even my family and friends questions me about this. The news paints Mexico as a place focused on the war between drug cartels. But the news doesn’t show people living their regular lives. Just like any country, there are places you should avoid.
The majority of inhabitants in Mexico which is over 130 million inhabitants live normal day-to-day lives. There are certain regions to avoid and I would suggest doing some research on where they are.
3) Mexicans are welcoming and ready to help
In Mexico, you are greeted with a kiss. ( but since it is during Covid times, it is less likely). Some people in other countries have a notion that Mexicans are all dealing with illegal substances or trying to rip you off. Coming from America, you hear a lot of negative things about Mexico and their people but until I see it and experience with my very own eye, I found that the locals are so kind-hearted, helpful and friendly.
Put all the negative stories the media tell you aside and try to have a fresh perspective.
4) Getting use to insects and small creatures
When I lived in Vegas, most people have seen a Scorpio or two but I have never encounter it. Getting to know what lives in Mexico and knowing their habits is a good idea to make you more fell more adjusted. However, the first time I encountered some of these new bugs and animals in Mexico, I was haunted by it for a several days. One of the things to know before moving to Mexico is the fact you will eventually see a scorpion and spiders. I am so scared of them but getting use to it a little. The good news is the fact that scorpions and most creatures are not dangerous. They attack only if they felt threatened.
I seal all cracks around windows and doors and regular cleaning of your home keeps them away.
5) Don’t flush your toilet paper
This doesn’t apply everywhere, however, if you’re in a public place and there’s a bin right next to the toilet (containing more than just sanitary products) then you should throw your paper in there.
6) Being on time is not the norm
Punctuality is important to me but in Mexico, to arrive early is unheard of and to arrive on time is unusual.
I was always taught that being on time is late, early is on time and late is unacceptable. In Mexico time, everything is ‘relaxed.’
7) Pedestrians do not have the right-of-way
Unlike in the States, “the largest vehicle has right of way.” Or, in some cases, “the most expensive vehicle has right of way.” Pedestrians be on a look out!
8)Mexican Tacos are nothing like American tacos
“Mexican Food” wasn’t my favorite food until now. The food in Mexico are amazingly delicious and fresh. American Mexican is completely different than actual Mexican food. We will talk about the Tacos. Mexican Tacos have no cheese and they are small. They are definitely not crunchy either. You will normally find cheese as an add-on for a few extra pesos. The street tacos are addictive and I crave for Mexican Taco over anything from America.
9) Bagging my own groceries
We are used to having our groceries bagged but not the case here. Young kids are waiting at the end of the check out. Give him/her a few pesos if they help you bag your groceries. Also a plus regarding filling up gas on your car, is that the attendant fill up your gas for you without you leaving your car.They will wash your windows and check your oil.
10) You are not alone
You can make friends all over the country without much trouble, and this is by joining a local and expats social group. This is going to make your stay much better like it did mine.
Local friends and expats have helped us with questions and vice versa. We exchanged ideas on the best local bars and restaurants, bureaucracy, culture and more.
11) Don’t drink tap water
We don’t want to drink from the tap. some people do. We have huge bottles called garrafones deliver to us. It is also dirt cheap.
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