Mexico

Living in Mexico

Living in Mexico is very different from living in the United States. It will be important to make friends with locals so that you can know where and what activities are safe. People are very friendly.

English

Mexico's primary language is Spanish, and over 80 indigenous languages are spoken there. Many people speak English as a second language. Touristy places like Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Oaxaca City are more likely to have English speakers. I do recommend learning Spanish while you're there. People are very friendly and very willing to help you figure things out.

Crime and Safety

In general, Mexico is more dangerous than the US. There's no two ways about it. You will want to be sure that you are not advertising the amount of wealth you have. If you are not Mexican, you will already stand out. Don't flash large bills or drive a very fancy car. Pay attention to what locals do and follow their example. Always use Uber or other rideshare apps. Don't drive on the highways at night.

Racism

Caveat: I am a white American. Other people can speak to this better than I can.

As a white person in Mexico, doors are literally and figuratively opened for you. Its... an experience.

Racism, especially against Black Americans is definitely a thing in Mexico. I have never seen a black person on Mexican television, to be honest, or in positions of authority. Afromexicans are trying to change this and force the country to deal with its history of racism and enslavement.

Colorism is also a thing. I was told to my face as if it was normal that it was great that my babies would be whiter than my ex-husband. As if that were a totally normal thing to say.

The necessities: Food and utilites

Mexico has grocery stores that are basically the same as US stores. There are also markets, where you can get fresh meat and produce. And lots of small businesses. There will probably be some near your house where you can get necessities in a pinch. If you're lucky, vendors will also come by your house during the day to sell you anything from tamales to water to cookies.

Utilities are different in Mexico than they are in the United States. There is not piped gas in all places; you may need to buy gas in tanks for your stove and hot water heater. You cannot drink water from the tap, you must buy bottled water.

Queer/Trans Friendly cities

This list is from various queer/trans people currently living in Mexico

• Mexico City - this is at the top of everyone's list. It's a very large city with a lot to offer and a lot of queer culture. There are lots of different kinds of neighborhoods, you can probably find something to suit your needs.
• Guadalajara
• Oaxaca City - Oaxaca City is experiencing a lot of gentrification and tourism at the moment. But it's a queer-friendly city according to more than one source. The surrounding state is not known for it's queer friendlyness. Yes, Muxes do exist, no, you are not one of them and cannot become one of them.
• Xalapa (Jalapa) - This is a small city in Veracruz that is very artsy and has an excellent archeology museum.
• Puerto Vallarta - This is a west coast touristy/beach town not too far from Guadalajara. The town itself is very safe, the surrounding state is not, use caution and ask a local before visiting small towns nearby.
• Cancun - this is a resort town on the Yucatán penninsula. It's known for queer friendliness. The surrounding towns are not.
• Puebla - Puebla is a more conservative city than the others listed here, but it is very safe, and it has a trans congresswoman.
• San Miguel de Allende - This is an ex-pat community of mostly American retirees. It has the highest cost of living of these options.