What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Mexico City?
We asked people in Mexico City if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"When you meet someone for the first time, you usually say the formal address of you, which is "usted". Once you know them, saying "usted" is almost an insult! I've done that a few times. Now I call everyone "tu", which is the informal "you", and everyone welcomes it," commented one expat who made the move to Mexico City, Mexico.

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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"When visiting Mexico City, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Avoid any behavior or conversation that could be interpreted as offensive or inappropriate. Refrain from making rude or disrespectful comments about the culture, people, or religion. Additionally, be mindful not to wear clothing that is too revealing or make disrespectful gestures. It is also important to avoid pointing with the index finger, as this gesture can be considered rude," remarked another expat in Mexico City, Mexico.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Mexico City?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Mexico City?
- Will I be able to find a job in Mexico City?
- What is life like in Mexico City?
- What do expats in Mexico City appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Mexico City?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Mexico City accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Mexico City like?
- What are healthcare services like in Mexico City?
- What are medical services in Mexico City like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mexico City?
- What are emergency services like in Mexico City?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Mexico City?
- How are local medical facilities in Mexico City?
- As a foreigner living in Mexico City, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Mexico City?
If you live in Mexico City, newcomers to Mexico City would love to hear your answer to this question.