Top 5 Tips For Healthy Family Living In Mexico For Expats

From fantastic weather to fascinating history and delicious food, Mexico is a popular destination for ex-pats. Yet relocating can be a daunting experience, especially if you are bringing children with you. Here are five issues to consider before moving to Mexico, to help ensure that you and your family are able to make the most of your move.

1. Mexico for Expats Safety

One of the biggest concerns that people often have about moving to Mexico, revolves around the issue of safety. Unfortunately, it is true that in many areas of the country, crime and poverty are a problem. However, there are also plenty of areas in Mexico that are safe.

As with any country, there will be areas that have high crime rates and you should aim to avoid these. When you are planning your relocation, spend some time researching the crime rates of the area or city you want to move to. Tourist locations have a tendency to attract thieves and women should avoid saloon bars. It is important to learn some Spanish to help you communicate and help you stay safe.

You will also find that many Mexicans take some form of self-defence class. Taekwondo is one of the most popular, as are other martial arts. There are classes for adults, but there are also many after-school or weekend clubs for children too. Not only do they learn an important self-defence skill, but it is also a great way to meet new people.

Before you move to Mexico, it is essential that you ensure you have international health insurance firmly in place. The hospitals are ranked by the start system (in a similar way to hotels), meaning that 5-star hospitals offer the best care.

2. Enjoying The Outdoors

With great weather all year round, you’ll find yourself spending much more time outdoors. When it comes to swimming, you may find that it is simpler to go to the beach. In order to swim in a public swimming pool, you need to complete a registration process, which involves providing a medical certificate as well as proof of your vaccinations. Similarly, you might find that gym membership can be quite expensive.

Luckily, there are plenty of nature reserves and parks to enjoy and, whilst most locals don’t tend to cycle or walk, hiring bikes is becoming more popular. If you want to explore Mexico City on a bike or have a go at safely skating in the streets, then Sunday is the best day to go as the streets are closed.

3. Time For A Fiesta

There are cultural events all year round. Whether you are hoping to experience a fiesta (party) or take part in one of the many holiday celebrations, such as the Day of the Dead, you won’t be short of options in Mexico. Moreover, the celebrations tend to be family-friendly events, meaning they provide a fun experience for the whole family, as well as giving you the opportunity to get to know some of the locals.

4. Food And Eating Out

You will quickly come to realize that a lot of the food in Mexico (delicious though it is) is high in sugar. Most of the Mexican restaurants tend to offer traditional foods, with some offering a small plate of adult options for children. Yet, you can also find a whole range of international food, with Thai, Indian and plenty of American chains offering food from around the world.

You may find that vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are limited. This is beginning to slowly change and some supermarkets are starting to stock a greater range of options than before. As with most things, there are wider choices in larger cities.

Yet Mexico is all about the markets. You can find plenty of fresh, local produce on offer in the markets to cook at home. Shop around before you buy, as you may well find that the stalls outside the markets may in fact be cheaper.

5. Plenty Of Familiar Stores

Cities in Mexico each have a shopping mall and you’ll be able to find plenty of Costco, Walmart, H&M and other westernized stores and products around. Whatever creature comfort you’re looking for, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find it.

About the author

Lauren Groff works as a professional editor and content marketer at Boom Essays. An expat living in Mexico for over five years, Lauren works closely with a wide range of companies, supporting them to develop and improve their marketing strategy concepts.