Learning how to fit in after moving to Mexico

by moveforward on August 3, 2013

gringos.com  

You can read a million websites, you can read every single book about the expat community in the world but the fact is that information gleaned on the ground by people who have been there, done it and posted on the forums, are worth their weight in gold. The fact that Mexico is one of the more popular Latin American destinations for expats has led to a jump in interest and one member in particular has been very helpful with their comments regarding misconceptions about Mexico and learning how to fit in.

We will now look at a number of different elements of life in Mexico, rumours and mistruths.

Should I learn to speak Spanish?

Many expats will tell you that learning to speak Spanish in Mexico would perhaps be the most rewarding use of your time before and during your move. While many Mexicans will converse with you in English, why should they divert from their mother tongue?



The fact is that many Mexicans will have no real issue speaking English to you but surely you should be meeting them on their terms?

Why do so many Mexicans want to go to the USA?

This is an interesting subject because if you look back at the history of Mexico perhaps 20 years ago or even 10 years ago, the constant flow of expats moving to the USA was enormous. However, over the last few years there has been a misconception that Mexicans want to go to the USA when fewer are leaving and many more are now repatriating themselves from the USA and other parts of the world.


The fact is that Mexico is now a very strong economy in its own right and a vital element of the region as a whole. Many believe that the Mexican economy is perfectly positioned for significant long-term growth, so why would Mexicans look to leave?

Be humble and show respect

There is nothing worse than the “new kid on the block” showing off, bragging about their wealth, always talking about themselves and showing no respect for the local environment and the local culture. During your stay in Mexico you will likely be stopped by one of the many police in the country and the best you can do is to be humble and show respect rather than confirming your “rights” as a US citizen or wherever you may originally be from.

Conform to your neighbours ideas

As in Rome, do as the Romans. While this is a very ancient saying and not one which everybody will agree with, why should your Mexican neighbour be expected to conform to your ideas just because you have moved from another country. There is obviously give-and-take in any friendly relationship but the fact is that you are in a foreign country and you should show respect for the local culture and way of life.

Learn to share

We have detailed a number of elements of life in Mexico for which there may be confusion and misunderstanding from years gone by. However, one member of the gringos forum has suggested something very simple, that by “learning to share” you will very quickly find new friends and they could turn out to be some of the best friends you have ever had.

People are loyal to their friends in Mexico, extremely loyal, and will help you and assist you wherever they can – but remember, this is a two-way street.