Essential info for Mexico

Time: There are four time zones in Mexico: GMT -6, -7 and -8 with daylight saving, and the state of Sonora is GMT -7 year-round.

 

Electricity: 130 volts, 60Hz. Standard plugs in Mexico are two-pin, flat blade attachments.

 

Language: Spanish is the official language but some English is spoken in the more developed areas.

 

Safety Information: Crime rates in Mexico are high, especially in Mexico City where muggings and robberies are common. Expats in Mexico are advised to avoid obvious displays of wealth. Only pre-ordered, authorised taxis should be used, and bus services should only be used during the day. Women should be vigilant when alone as sexual assaults do occur, particularly in Cancun. Be wary of people impersonating police officers; if in doubt, ask for identification and make a note of the details. There are occasional hurricanes along the coast between June and November.

 

Local Customs: Patience is a virtue in Mexico; opening hours and public transport are often delayed. The local people are generally friendly and hospitable, and politeness and respect are appreciated in return. Mexicans tend to communicate to each other well within one another’s personal space; this should not be misconstrued as overly forward or imposing.

Business: Business etiquette in Mexico is quite formal and good working relationships are formed through one-on-one interaction. Business attire should be formal, with suits and ties being standard, and punctuality is also important. When greeting someone, a firm handshake and the use of surnames and titles is the norm, unless otherwise indicated. Business cards are exchanged and it is advisable for expats to have these printed in both English and Spanish. Business is usually conducted in English but the use of basic Spanish will be commended; interpreters are often used. Expat women should be aware that the Mexican business world is very male orientated. Business hours are usually from 9am to 5pm, with an hour for lunch, but may vary in each company.

 

Communications: The international access code for Mexico is +52. For calls out of Mexico, dial 00 and then the required country's international access code (e.g. 001 for North America). Area and city codes are also used (e.g. (0)55 for Mexico City). There are US long-distance phone companies with access numbers expats can dialled when using a phone card, a cheaper option for international calls. Only use official TelMex phone booths for making international calls; all others are very expensive. There is GSM 1900 network coverage throughout most of Mexico. Internet cafés and personal broadband are widely available.

 

Emergencies: The emergency numbers in Mexico are 060 and 080.

 

Climate: Expats in Mexico will find that the climate varies in different areas, according to the altitude of each. Along the coast it’s generally tropical (hot and humid) and in Mexico City the weather is more moderate, with pleasant (but rainy) summers and mild winters. Seasonal temperatures vary little but May is usually the warmest month, and January the coldest.