Culture Shock in Mexico

Expats moving to Mexico will certainly experience some degree of culture shock. This North American country’s rich and varied way of life can seem mysterious at first, and the frustrations that come from the challenges of adaptation are often compounded if you don’t know Spanish, the nation’s official language. 

In turn, it’s easy to become overly judgmental and angry at customs and practices that seem incredibly foreign to you, but that may be completely natural to a Mexican.
 

Studying some of the nuances of the culture can make the first few months in Mexico not only more tolerable, but enjoyable, and learning to laugh at and accept certain realities are two crucial behaviours that can help ease culture shock.
 

For the most part, despite some initial 'ruffled feathers', most expats are won over by the friendly politeness of Mexican culture. Not to mention, with a low cost of living, many expats will find their lifestyle a little easier in Mexico, and with enough income, it’s easy to overlook any differences you might initially find culturally difficult to stomach.

Time

The laid-back, lazy pace that makes Mexico an ideal vacation spot, also makes it an infuriating place to tackle the simple tasks you need to accomplish upon initial relocation.
 

It can take forever to complete errands that may be perceived by a newcomer as extraordinarily easy, and it often becomes impossible to plan a timeline.
 

The excuses for delays may be many (including broken trucks, dead fathers, fiestas and holidays, paperwork that isn’t correct, etc.), and would often not be acceptable in an expat’s home country. 
Language barrier in Mexico

Mexico is a Spanish-speaking country, and although many Mexicans speak English, many do not. That being said, many expats living in Mexico get on fine only knowing a few key Spanish words, though, these foreigners surround themselves with other English-speaking expats.
 

However, when looking for employment in Mexico, knowing the language is usually essential.  The other benefit of knowing Spanish is being able to understand prices and basic instructions on packaging.  
 

Not to mention, even the shortest language course will go a long way in allowing expats to fit in and feel a part of society.   

Meeting and greeting in Mexico
 

Expat arrivals to Mexico will quickly notice that most Mexicans, both friends and casual acquaintances, kiss each other on the cheek in greeting. 
 

For foreigners, trying to figure out when, or when not, to engage in this charming custom can be confusing, especially when someone leans towards you expecting you to kiss back. 
 

Even the expat who is familiar with kissing in other cultures, may find that Mexican cheek kissing has its own set of rules.

Rules of Kissing

• Kissing is on the right cheek, 
• Traditionally it is practiced woman to woman, woman to man but not man to man. 
• If it is a casual acquaintance, kiss the air and just touch cheeks. 
• While some men kiss the cheek of every woman they come in contact with, it is traditional for the woman to make the first move, especially if it is a new acquaintance. 
• It isn't necessary to kiss the cheek of those you see every day, like a neighbour or employee, but if it has been a while since you have seen them, it is appropriate.  
• Many Mexicans will kiss someone at the time they are introduced rather than shake hands. 

Dining in Mexico

When dining at a restaurant, it isn't unusual for complete strangers to say "provecho" (enjoy your meal) to others at a table, as they leave the restaurant. This open, friendly communication is common in Mexico, and an excellent example of a culture that is incredibly polite and congenial. 

Keep in mind, that in this situation, and in most, when at a loss as to what to say, replying with "gracias" is always an appropriate response. 

Religion in Mexico
 

Mexicans, as a rule, are deeply tolerant of other religions and lifestyles, and it’s not even uncommon for locals to belong to more than one church. 
 

As a result, expats living in Mexico have the freedom to celebrate and embrace their faith without fear of reprisal from others.

Still though, it is predominantly a Catholic culture, a truth evidenced by the sheer number of local holidays, fiestas, pieces of artwork, popular songs, nativity scenes and alters on government property that celebrate Catholicism.
 

Religious festivities are many, and everyone can enjoy the happenings along with the rest of Mexico without fear of exclusion. In fact, joining-in can better help you familiarise yourself with the native culture.
 

Do note that the festivities can often cause inconveniences and traffic jams, though.

Communication in Mexico
 

Bureaucracy in Mexico
 

Mexico is a country of paperwork. When opening a bank account, buying property or sorting out any legality, the sheer number of documents and signatures required can feel overwhelming and senseless. 
 

It’s essential expats save every piece of paperwork they’ve received, because inevitably, you will be asked to produce it. Furthermore, paperwork must include the official "stamp" - or it isn't legal in most cases. 
 

Few expats can avoid complaining, but at least they are in good company.  The average Mexican on the street is equally frustrated.
Family in Mexico

Family is of the utmost importance in Mexico, and family obligations often take precedent over work responsibility. 

Families can seem confusing in their extended complexity, and it is common for them all to live together.
 

At some point, expats may feel excluded by the sheer size and closeness of Mexican families. They love to be together, and even call their friends "hermanos" (brothers) and "hermanitas" (sisters) in affection, making it difficult to figure out who is actually related. 
 

Children are loved and adored, and appear to have no restrictions put on their behaviour, especially boys.
 

It is very common for young lovers to move in with their in-laws, and "marry" in name, having children at a young age.  To Mexicans, it’s odd that when someone marries in other cultures, they move out of the house to get away from the parents.   
Mexican helping hand

This is one of the best things about Mexican culture. If you have a problem with your car, if you are lost or just need help, someone will come to your aid. 
 

Mexicans seem unable to say "no" to someone in distress, and sooner or later, expats will be the happy recipients of this behaviour. 
 

On the converse, this same attitude may be what causes lengthy delays. For example, if your car is broken down a complete stranger may stop everything they are doing to help you, and even request friends come to your aid. But, when you go to fetch your car from the mechanic, it may not be ready, as the mechanic was consumed with assisting others in need.  

Like other parts of Mexican culture, accepting this without getting frustrated will go a long way.