The question of whether or not you can work remotely from Mexico in 2023 is a complicated one.
On the one hand, Mexico is a popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers. There are plenty of coworking spaces and internet cafes, and the cost of living is relatively low.
On the other hand, there are also a number of challenges that come with working remotely from Mexico. The country has a reputation for being unsafe, and violent crime is a serious problem in some areas.
Additionally, the infrastructure isn’t always reliable, and internet speeds can be quite slow depending on how far from the beaten track you are living. So while it’s possible to work remotely from Mexico, it’s not always going to be an ideal situation. Here are some tips and tricks when working remotely in Mexico in 2023
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Living and working in Mexico in 2022
The most important thing to consider when asking yourself ‘Can I work remotely in Mexico’ is choosing where to set up a home base for your digital nomad lifestyle – Reliable internet, safety, affordability, and a fun cultural environment.
Several places in Mexico meet and exceed all of those qualities. Generally, Mexican cities and towns have great infrastructure.
Mexico sometimes gets a bad rep for being dangerous, but plenty of areas are extremely safe for travellers and digital nomads. Best of all, Mexico has incredible weather, amazing food, and vibrant culture for digital nomads who choose to live there and work remotely.
The cost of living while working remotely from Mexico
The cost of living in Mexico varies greatly depending on which city or town you choose to make your home base. Specific areas that cater to tourists like Cancun or Tulum will always be a bit more expensive. You’ll want to keep that in mind if budget is a major consideration.
Costs of public transportation and lodging skyrocket in tourist areas. Still, they can be great options because there is generally easy access to fast wi-fi and other amenities as well as feeling quite safe. Always research the accommodation before you travel.
Other areas like Mexico City vary greatly in cost depending on the neighbourhood, but in general, it’s possible to find nice long-stay options for roughly ⅓ the cost of United States rentals.
Are nomad visas in Mexico a thing?
Travelling to Mexico to work remotely is easier than in so many other countries. This is because Mexico does not require a visa for more than 60 countries, including the United States.
All you need to travel to Mexico is a passport. Once you arrive, as a tourist, you can stay for up to 180 consecutive days. After staying for 180 days you will need to leave the country briefly and have your passport stamped somewhere else before returning.
More in-depth Information about visa types in Mexico can be found here.
Travelling to, from, and around Mexico
Many people enter Mexico by driving or flying from the United States. Alternatively, there are many international flights every day to a variety of destinations throughout Mexico from all over the world. Access to Mexico is global.
Once you’re in Mexico, the cheapest way for digital nomads to get around is to use public transportation. Many parts of Mexico have great public transportation, like buses between cities and villages. This transportation is generally very dependable and reasonably priced. In 2019, there were a total of 56,256 buses in Mexico!
For travel within cities, many places like Mexico City have plenty of fairly priced Uber and Taxi options. Just make sure you do your research for the particular region you are travelling to, so you have an idea of what the price might be ahead of time.
For longer journeys, you may consider flying domestically within Mexico. Mexican airlines such as Aeromexico offer daily flights to many destinations within the country and usually, you can find very reasonably priced tickets.
Internet in Mexico
For digital nomads looking to work remotely in Mexico, fast and free internet is going to be crucial. Luckily, most cities have reliable internet service throughout the country.
Smaller towns and off-the-beaten-path destinations may pose more of a problem. As a rule of thumb, stick to places that seem to have the most modern infrastructure and you should be good to go
When you are choosing where you will stay while working remotely, double-check that high-speed internet is provided with the rental. Most Airbnb’s or longer rentals will include this information in the listing. If they don’t make sure to ask before you book!
If you’re staying in hostels and hotels, many have co-working spaces where you can meet other digital nomads who are also choosing the remote path.
Language barriers while working remotely in Mexico
You’re probably well aware that the language in Mexico is Spanish. If you’re travelling through some of the more touristy spots in Mexico you may run into plenty of Mexican nationals who speak English with varying levels of fluency, but I am here to tell you – you should still learn Spanish.
If you’re planning on working remotely in Mexico shortly, it would be a great idea to begin working on your Spanish as soon as possible. Apps like Duo Lingo are great places to start and can have you speaking basic Spanish in no time at all.
While travelling, keep a pocket Spanish dictionary on you at all times. Google Translate is a great tool, but what if your phone dies and you need to ask for directions? This could become a problem.
Even if you don’t speak Spanish fluently, you can still work remotely in Mexico as long as you’re prepared. Luckily, immersion is one of the best and fastest ways to learn a new language. Speaking the national language in the country you are living and travelling in will elevate your experience in every possible way.
Dressing like a Mexican
Mexican fashion is diverse and influenced by various cultural traditions and regional styles. Here are some tips to help you dress in a way that reflects Mexican fashion:
Traditional Mexican Clothing
Incorporating elements of traditional Mexican clothing into your outfits will impress the locals and support their traditional values.
For example, women can wear colorful embroidered blouses called “huipil” or “blusa” paired with a skirt or jeans. Men can opt for traditional embroidered shirts called “guayaberas” or “camisas de charro.”
Bright and Vibrant Colors
Mexican fashion often embraces bold and vibrant colors. Opt for garments in shades like bright red, turquoise, yellow, or pink to add a festive touch to your outfit.
Patterned Textiles
Mexico is known for its patterned textiles, such as the intricate woven patterns of Oaxaca or the geometric designs of the Mayan communities. Incorporate garments or accessories made from these textiles, such as a rebozo (a traditional shawl) or a handwoven bag, into your attire.
Embroidery
Embroidery is a significant element of Mexican fashion. Look for clothing with embroidered details, such as floral motifs or intricate patterns, which can add a touch of Mexican flair to your outfit.
Traditional Accessories
Mexican accessories can complete your look. Women can wear statement earrings, colorful beaded bracelets, or silver jewelry, while men can opt for leather belts with intricate buckles or handmade woven bracelets.
Traditional Footwear
Mexican-style footwear, such as huaraches (leather sandals) or colorful embroidered boots, to complement your outfit.
Regional Influences
Mexico has diverse regional styles, each with its unique fashion traditions. Research the specific region you are interested in or visiting and incorporate elements of its style into your wardrobe. For example, the Tehuana style from Oaxaca is characterized by long, colorful skirts and lace blouses.
Casual and Relaxed Style
Mexico also embraces a casual and relaxed style, especially in coastal regions or smaller towns. Comfortable clothing like loose-fitting tops, dresses, or linen pants can be combined with sandals or espadrilles for a laid-back Mexican-inspired look.
Fashion is a form of self-expression, and there is no single “correct” way to dress when working remotely from Mexico (unless you have to go on video calls). Feel free to adapt these suggestions based on your personal style and comfort level, and don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your outfit choices.
Food and Drink in Mexico
The food in Mexico is nothing short of amazing. While working remotely in Mexico you will eat some of the most delicious and flavorful food of your life guaranteed. Mexican cuisine is famous throughout the world, but there is no better place to eat it than its origin.
There are plenty of variations in Mexican food regionally but expect delicious spicy dishes of chicken, fish, and meat. Lots of homemade tortillas, vegetables, and rice like you’ve never tasted before.
The cost of food in Mexico varies. Larger towns and cities have fancy and exclusive restaurants that can be very expensive, but if you stick to local spots, you can still sample delicious food for a fraction of the cost. If you’re working remotely on a budget, there will be no shortage of food options for you to try.
Mexico is famous for tequila, but you will be able to find beers, craft cocktails, and wine anywhere you go in Mexico. The cost of alcohol depends on where it is imported from, but generally, you can purchase a beer in Mexico for around USD $1. If you’re someone who likes to go out a lot, this can be a great place to save money.
Coffee shops in Mexico
Working remotely from coffee shops in Mexico is possible Many coffee shops in Mexico, particularly larger cities and tourist destinations, offer free Wi-Fi and a productive environment for working. However, it’s important to consider things like internet reliability, notice level, access to power, Privacy and Security, and politeness.
Yes, it is possible to work remotely from coffee shops in Mexico. Many coffee shops in Mexico, particularly in larger cities and tourist destinations, offer free Wi-Fi and a conducive environment for working. However, it’s important to consider a few factors before choosing to work remotely from coffee shops:
Additionally, it’s a good idea to have backup options for working remotely. working from co-working spaces or accommodation; some condos, apartments and hotels have reading rooms.
Researching the area and coffee shop where you would like to base yourself is crucial to a fluent workflow system. Many people who work remotely from Mexico, switch up coffee shops daily for privacy and security reasons.
Weather in Mexico
Mexico is a huge country with quite a lot of climate variations throughout the different regions. Lots of travellers assume that the weather in Mexico is always warm, but that is not always the case.
The weather in Mexico depends on latitude and altitude. Within the country, there are deserts, snow-capped mountainous regions, tropical forests, lush river valleys, and beaches.
Along the coasts, the climate is generally warm and humid throughout the year whereas Mexico City can be pretty chilly at night. Baja is much the same as Southern California. In Northern Mexico, the weather is arid and can range from 90-degree weather to 40-degree weather depending on the time of year.
There are two main seasons in Mexico. The rainy season runs from May to October and the dry season is October through April. It rarely rains throughout the dry season and temperatures are much higher. Pack accordingly.
Don’t let the rainy season discourage you from working remotely in Mexico. It generally only rains for a small fraction of each afternoon. Plus vegetation thrives during the rainy season, making it one of the most beautiful times to see Mexico.
So, is working remotely in Mexico for me?
With its stunning beaches, friendly people, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone in Mexico.
The country is also a great place to be if you’re looking to start your own business. With its burgeoning nomad scene, there’s no shortage of opportunity in Mexico. And with its proximity to the US market, it’s the perfect place to launch your business.
So whether you’re looking for a place to work remotely or to start your own business, Mexico is a perfect choice. By implementing these tips, you can create a productive and enjoyable remote work experience while exploring the rich culture and beautiful landscapes of Mexico.
