Expat Life in Mexico City: Is It Better Than Thailand?

Expat Life in Mexico City: Is It Better Than Thailand?

For the past five years Thailand is my base, splitting my time between bustling Bangkok and Phuket. However, if there’s one city that tempts me to reconsider my base, it’s Mexico City — particularly the neighborhoods of Condesa and Roma.

These areas are known for their charm, tree-lined streets, and cafes and boutiques.

La Condesa and Roma are popular expat neighborhoods.

Mexico City Insights

Located at over 2,200 meters (7,200 feet), Mexico City is Mexico's capital and largest city. Its metropolitan area has a population of approximately 22 million.

The city has a temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) in winter to 18°C (64°F) in summer. It is noted for its cultural offerings, diverse culinary scene, and historical landmarks.

Mexico City is a convenient flight from the U.S. and shares a closely aligned timezone.

Parks and Public Spaces

Mexico City’s parks, such as Parque México and Parque Espa?a, are central to its appeal. These green spaces are active hubs where locals engage in activities such as dancing, shadowboxing, and taking strolls with their dogs.

Dogs are cherished by CDMX's inhabitants.

Cycling Infrastructure

The city has made efforts to promote cycling with bicycle-friendly infrastructure, including designated bike lanes and the EcoBici bike-sharing program. This makes cycling a practical transportation option in many areas.

CDMX can be bike-friendly in some neighborhoods.

Culinary Scene

The food scene is diverse and highly regarded. From street-side taco stands to upscale restaurants, the options are extensive. Local spots like El Güero, a fourth-generation family-run taco establishment, highlight the authenticity and variety of Mexican cuisine.

El Güero is a fourth generation taco shop.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Mexico City has a rich history, with landmarks like the Palacio de Bellas Artes and ancient sites like Teotihuacán nearby. For museum enthusiasts, it offers a wide range of exhibits, from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary art.

Teotihuacán is a short drive from CDMX

Quality of Life

Condesa and Roma are notable for their walkability, safety, and distinctive atmosphere. Despite some misconceptions about safety, these neighborhoods are considered secure and are popular among expats and digital nomads. However, challenges such as air pollution and inconsistent Wi-Fi can detract from the experience.

Key Benefits of Mexico City for Expats

  • Dog-Friendly Environment: Parks and public spaces are welcoming to dog owners.
  • Bicycle Accessibility: Dedicated lanes and bike-sharing programs make cycling feasible.
  • Diverse Culinary Options: The city offers everything from tacos to fine dining.
  • Walkability: The design of Condesa and Roma supports pedestrian exploration.
  • Cultural Opportunities: Museums, bookstores, and arts venues contribute to a vibrant intellectual and artistic life.
  • Proximity to the U.S.: The time zone aligns closely with major U.S. cities, facilitating communication for remote workers.

Thailand or CDMX

While Thailand offers tropical beaches and efficient service design, Mexico City offers a balance of history, culture, and urban amenities. If not for my deep-rooted connection to Thailand, Mexico City — with its distinctive neighborhoods and overall quality of life — would be my top choice for a home base as an expat.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

My home country is the U.S., and my home base is Thailand. I pick Thailand for its quality of life, low crime rate, calmness, healthy lifestyle, ease of day, and affordability or value. For The Borderless Office, I travel Thailand and explore the best places for life as an expat. When not exploring places expats call home, my work is running a marketing agency that supports tech and A.I. companies.

My other projects include editor-in-chief of Thailand Casino Insider and Founder of RFA DOCTOR DIRECTORY.

Do you have questions about expat life in Thailand? Feel free to DM me or find my contact info here → www.andmarketing.us/philip-beere

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Vikas Malhotra

Building Emerging World Startup Ecosystems | Stanford GSB Grad

1 个月

Philip Beere, great article. I agree with most of the things you say here. Most people have a negative view of Latin America (because of the sole focus of global media on two major problems afflicting this region: d**gs and violence). However, note - unless you are looking for trouble and you stay away from shady neighbourhoods, you are very very safe. Let me add Polanco to the charming neighbourhoods you have already mentioned. I lived in Mexico in 2010-11 and remember that the traffic was terrible. But, if you can cycle to work, then CDMX gives you a very wholesome experience - the climate, the friendly people and the awesome food options (lots of vege friendly food too). CC: Ricardo Tatto, Gerardo Mendoza Llanes, Fabrice Serfati, Angeles Toledo, Leobardo Montufar Camacho

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