A Nomad’s Guide to Living in Mexico City
Mexico City has become a popular destination for digital nomads and expats looking for a new adventure. The city offers a vibrant culture, delicious food, and affordable living expenses. If you’re a nomad looking to make Mexico City your next home, here’s a guide to help you settle in.
Finding a Place to Stay
The first thing you need to do is look for a place to stay. Mexico City offers a range of options, from luxury apartments to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some popular neighborhoods that might suit your lifestyle:
1. Condesa: Known for its trendy cafes and nightlife, Condesa is a popular neighborhood for young professionals and expats.
2. Roma Norte: Another popular neighborhood for young professionals and expats. Roma Norte offers a bohemian vibe with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.
3. Polanco: If you’re looking for luxury living, Polanco is the place to be. The neighborhood offers high-end restaurants and designer shopping.
4. Centro Historico: The heart of Mexico City, Centro Historico is known for its historic architecture and cultural landmarks.
When searching for a place to stay, consider the location and proximity to your workspace, grocery stores, and other amenities. You can use popular real estate websites like Airbnb or Viva Mexico to find apartments and houses for rent.
Getting Around
Mexico City can be overwhelming because of its size and traffic. However, the city offers a convenient public transportation system that can help you get around quickly. Here are the main modes of transportation available:
1. Metro: The metro is the fastest and cheapest option for getting around the city. The metro system is extensive, but it can get crowded during peak hours.
2. Bus: The bus system is also extensive and can take you to places that the metro doesn’t reach. However, it can be slow and unpredictable.
3. Taxi: Taxis are a popular option for getting around the city. However, it’s important to use authorized taxi services like Uber or Cabify to ensure your safety.
4. Bike: Mexico City has recently added bike lanes to its infrastructure, making it safer for cyclists. Bikes can also be rented through shared bike services like EcoBici.
Eating and Drinking
Mexico City is known for its delicious street food and vibrant restaurant scene. Here are some popular dishes to try:
1. Tacos: Tacos are a staple in Mexico City and can be found on almost every street corner. Try the pastor, carnitas, or al pastor tacos.
2. Chilaquiles: A breakfast dish made with tortilla chips, salsa, and eggs.
3. Pescado a la talla: A grilled fish dish served with spicy sauce.
4. Mezcal: A distilled alcoholic beverage made from agave plants. It’s commonly served with lime and salt.
When it comes to drinking water, it’s recommended to stick to bottled water to avoid getting sick.
Working Remotely
Mexico City offers plenty of co-working spaces that cater to remote workers and entrepreneurs. Here are some popular co-working spaces:
1. WeWork: A popular co-working space with several locations in Mexico City.
2. Nest Coworking: A boutique co-working space that offers a creative environment for entrepreneurs and innovators.
3. Regus: A global co-working space with several locations in Mexico City.
4. Impact Hub: A co-working space that focuses on social impact and sustainability.
Additionally, several coffee shops in the city offer free Wi-Fi and a quiet atmosphere for remote workers.
FAQs:
Q. Is it safe to live in Mexico City as a foreigner?
A. Mexico City has a high crime rate, but it’s a safe place to live as long as you take common-sense precautions like not walking around late at night in secluded areas.
Q. How much does it cost to live in Mexico City?
A. The cost of living in Mexico City is affordable, but it varies depending on your lifestyle. A one-bedroom apartment in a popular neighborhood can cost around $600 to $1,000 per month, while groceries cost around $150 per month.
Q. Do I need to learn Spanish to live in Mexico City?
A. While learning Spanish can help you navigate the city and communicate with locals, it’s not necessary. Many people in Mexico City speak English and are accustomed to interacting with foreigners.
Q. What’s the weather like in Mexico City?
A. Mexico City has a mild climate all year round, with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F). However, it can get cold during the rainy season from May to September.
In conclusion, Mexico City is a great place for nomads to live and work. With its rich culture, delicious food, and affordable living expenses, it’s no wonder why it’s become a popular destination for digital nomads. Follow this guide to make your transition to the city a smooth and enjoyable one.