Reasons Why Mexico Is Underrated
Currently, the majority of the online hype for future expats and nomads goes to places like Colombia, Argentina, and in many circles Brazil. Surprisingly, you don’t see as much information on Mexico.
The majority of people are short-term tourists going to the Riviera Maya (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum) and Puerto Vallarta. Despite many people believing Mexico City is overrun with foreigners (mainly due to its proximity), you don’t hear much about Mexico being that.
I personally believe, that despite some hype, Mexico is still vastly underrated.
Best Food In Latin America
Nowhere in Latin America are you going to find better food than Mexico. No other country has as inventive and original recipes. You’ll never find the quality or quantity of high-end and local restaurants in Mexico. You’ll never find the diversity of street food anywhere outside of Mexico.
Colombians haven’t figured out how to spice their food.
Argentines only have their steak and French fries to talk about.
Peru pretty much only has ceviche.
What sets Mexican cuisine apart is not just the diverse range of dishes but also its culinary traditions that date back thousands of years. Many of Mexico's iconic ingredients, such as corn, beans, and chili peppers, have been staples of the Mesoamerican diet since ancient times. as a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage.
Mexico's influence extends far beyond its borders, with many "Old World" foods, from French to Italian cuisine, incorporating Mexican ingredients into their dishes. For example, tomatoes, avocados, and chocolate, all native to Mexico, have become integral components of countless international recipes.
First-World Amenities
Another reason to consider Mexico is the availability of first-world amenities. Major cities such as Mexico City and Guadalajara offer modern infrastructure, reliable healthcare, and a variety of entertainment options.
While most Latin American countries have these, the transitions can be much harder. Mexican cities aren't dealing with rolling blackouts like Argentina and many other South and Central American countries. Many live under the notion that outside of the tourist areas, Mexico is a cartel in the desert and a couple of pyramids in the jungle. Not many people are aware that some of Latin America's most lavish malls are in Mexico.
Better overall cultural history and destinations
Due to the Aztecs being the most prominent group in Latin America, the Spanish simply weren't able to erase as much of Mexico's history. When it comes to traveling Mexico, you could spend decades and never get tired. Mexico has around 37,266 known archaeological sites, with only 177 open to the public, and more being opened every year.
Mexico is one of the few countries with its nature easily accessible. You could start in Baja and drive dune buggies in the desert, visit pyramids in the jungle, hike mountains, and white river raft in the same week.
Unlike many other Latin American countries, Mexico has developed these areas enough that not only can locals visit them, but tourists can access and explore them. Outside of Rio de Janeiro, most Latin American countries have nowhere near the beauty of beaches that Mexico has. Mexico has both Pacific and Caribbean beaches in the same country.
Ideal Visa Situation
Mexico's visa situation facilitates relocation for anyone to the country. The documentation required for a 4-year temporary residency in Mexico is minimal, whether viewed as advantageous or otherwise. The path to permanent residency is equally straightforward, provided you meet the requirements.
Cost Of Living
While not the absolute cheapest Latin American country, Mexico offers multiple price variations due to its sheer size.
Mexico's appeal is its diverse geography and climate. From the deserts of Baja California to the rainforests of Chiapas, Mexico offers a wide range of landscapes to explore and enjoy.
You can hit the beaches of the Riviera Maya or the cool mountain air of the Sierra Madre Occidental, there's a region in Mexico to suit every taste and lifestyle.
The bonus of Mexico is is cultural heritage is reflected in its festivals, ruins, and colonial architecture.
Logistical placement
One of my biggest factors is logistical placement. South America is great, but many people still keep ties to the US or Canada by family, business, work. Getting to Mexico via car or plane is much simpler than flying into Brazil. For people who might have ongoing business or work obligations, being able to get to a major American City in a couple of hours might be a necessity.
If I left anything off let me know!
If you want to dive deeper into your Mexico or Latin America journey - book your call today.