¡Hola amigos! This week, tensions are rising along the U.S.-Mexico border after an exchange of gunfire, a new vehicle recall was just announced, several of Mexico’s major airports are getting serious upgrades, and the peso just had its worst month in more than two years.

Plus, how to navigate Mexico’s rules for foreign documents, emergency numbers you should know, and the fever dream that gave Mexico one of its most fantastical art forms.

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❓México Trivia

Q: Where did Empress Carlota of Mexico leave a message saying, “Carlota made it this far,” only for a future Mexican president to later add that he'd gone farther?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.

📣 México News Roundup

🇺🇸 On Sunday, U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson posted on X about a September 26 incident in which U.S. Coast Guard personnel exchanged gunfire with unidentified people near the Texas–Tamaulipas border. U.S. authorities said the first shots came from Mexico.

🪖 Also on Sunday, Mexico deployed 500 Army and National Guard personnel to reinforce surveillance along its side of the Tamaulipas border as part of a coordinated “mirror operation” with U.S. forces.

🇲🇽President Sheinbaum said Mexican authorities have no evidence that the shots came from Mexican territory and have requested supporting evidence from Washington.

🚙 More than 6,500 Ford and Lincoln vehicles are being recalled in Mexico over issues involving backup cameras and rear shock absorbers.

✈️ Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Tijuana, and Los Cabos airports are slated for major upgrades as part of a nearly US$2.8 billion investment in 12 Mexican airports.

🇨🇳 Mexico is courting more Chinese tourists as international air arrivals decline in Cancún, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta.

📈 The IMF raised its 2026 growth forecast for Mexico from 1.2% to 1.5%.

🏠 8 out of 10 people surveyed in Mexico say they cut food spending or delayed medical care in the past year to help pay for housing.

🚗 Major Chinese automakers including BYD, MG and Geely have put manufacturing plans in Mexico on hold amid uncertainty over the upcoming USMCA review.

🥑 Mexico and France are looking to expand bilateral agrifood trade under the new Mexico-EU agreement.

🏥 Eight babies have died at an IMSS hospital in Guadalajara, where outbreaks of Klebsiella bacteria and Candida fungus were detected. The causes of the deaths are now under investigation.

💵 The peso fell 6.38% against the U.S. dollar in September, its worst monthly performance since June 2024. 

📦 Mercado Libre invested 911 million pesos in a new distribution center in Jalisco that will help speed up deliveries across western Mexico and the Bajío.

📍Immigration Essentials

Apostilled, Notarized, or Translated? What Mexico Requires

You need a foreign birth certificate, marriage certificate, diploma, or other document for a trámite in Mexico. Then you’re told it needs to be apostilled, notarized, legalized, or officially translated.

These requirements aren’t interchangeable, and understanding the difference can save you time, money, and unnecessary paperwork.

Read more

🧩 Life in México

Emergency Numbers You Should Know

Whether you’re new to Mexico or have lived here for years, these numbers are worth saving in your phone.

911: Mexico’s national emergency number for police, firefighters, ambulances, accidents, and civil protection. Call when someone is in immediate danger or urgent help is needed.

088: The Guardia Nacional’s citizen service line for reports involving possible federal crimes, administrative offenses, and incidents on highways and toll roads.

089: An anonymous reporting line for suspected crimes that require investigation but are not currently in progress, such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, extortion, or human trafficking.

071: CFE’s service line for reporting power outages, voltage problems, fallen electrical lines, and other risks involving the electricity network.

074: CAPUFE’s assistance line for incidents, road conditions, medical assistance, and vehicle problems on highways and toll roads operated by CAPUFE.

078: Ángeles Verdes provides tourist information and roadside assistance on designated routes in all 32 states. Coverage is not universal, so help depends on your location and operating hours.

079, option 1: The Línea de Bienestar para las Mujeres provides confidential legal, psychological, and emotional guidance to women experiencing violence.

For immediate danger or a crime in progress, always call 911.

Health insurance in Mexico doesn’t have to be confusing.

Skip the endless searching and connect directly with a vetted broker who can match coverage to your needs. Peace of mind starts with the right policy.

Find your broker today

🇲🇽 Viva México

Fantastical Creatures From a Fever Dream

Pedro Linares López was a Mexico City artisan who created piñatas, masks, and other figures from papier-mâché and cardboard.

Then, in 1936, at age 30, he became seriously ill with a fever.

Linares later said that while sick, he dreamed of a strange world filled with fantastical creatures made from parts of different animals. They repeated a single nonsense word: “Alebrije.”

After recovering, Linares began recreating the creatures from his fever dream using the same cartonería skills he had practiced for years. He named them after the word he heard them chanting, and a new art form was born.

The first alebrijes were not an immediate success, and Linares struggled to sell them. But he persisted, and the figures eventually caught the attention of Mexico’s art world.

Among their admirers were Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. Both commissioned pieces for their private collections. Their commissions added to Linares’s growing recognition.

Oaxacan artisans later gave alebrijes a very different form, combining fantastical creatures with the region’s existing woodcarving tradition and carving them from copal instead of papier-mâché.

Each wooden figure is shaped by hand, then left to dry for weeks or even months. Once sanded smooth, it is decorated with tiny brushstrokes, dots, and geometric patterns.

Over time, the Oaxacan style has become a thriving craft practiced by generations of artisan families.

In 1990, Pedro Linares received Mexico’s National Prize for Arts and Sciences in the Popular Arts and Traditions category. He died just two years later, but he got to see his creation grow into a beloved Mexican folk art tradition.

🪷 Viva Wellness

Capulín: Mexico's Little Fruit with Big Benefits

Capulín (Prunus serotina subsp. capuli) is a type of black cherry that grows across Mexico’s temperate highlands and has been used here since pre-Hispanic times.

As capulín ripens, its skin deepens from red to dark reddish-purple. That rich color comes from natural plant compounds called anthocyanins, which have antioxidant properties and help protect cells from oxidative stress. Laboratory studies have also found antimicrobial activity in capulín extracts against several types of bacteria and yeast.

Capulín has been used in Mexican traditional medicine for generations. The fruit is traditionally made into syrup for coughs, while preparations from the leaves and bark are used for respiratory complaints. Other remedies have been used for diarrhea, abdominal pain, and urinary problems.

Some parts of the tree, particularly the seeds, leaves, and bark, contain cyanogenic compounds that can be toxic, so medicinal use is best left to experts.

Fresh capulín is sweet with a slightly astringent finish and can be eaten by the handful. It’s also made into jams, candies, and liqueurs, or dried like raisins. In parts of central and southern Mexico, caputamales (or tamales de capulín) are enjoyed as a sweet seasonal treat.

Capulín was once much more common in Mexican kitchens and markets. Today, trees still grow in family gardens, but much of the fruit never reaches market stalls. 

Fewer people are working the land as small-scale farming becomes harder to sustain. Its fruiting season also coincides with the rainy season, when rain and hail can damage the crop.

So if you do spot some capulín at your local mercado, be sure to try it.

🎉 ¡Vamos! Events

Children’s and Youth Mariachi Competition 2026 – October 14–16, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
A new generation of mariachi musicians takes center stage in Puerto Vallarta with groups across Jalisco competing throughout the week. Catch live mariachi along the Malecón, then see the finalists compete at Teatro Vallarta. There’s also a public masterclass. More info here.

La Carrera Panamericana 2026 – October 16–22, Tuxtla Gutiérrez to Zacatecas
Mexico’s legendary classic-car rally hits the road for seven days and 4,002 kilometers. The route crosses eight states, from Chiapas to Zacatecas. Drivers tackle 562 kilometers of timed speed stages. Along the way, the rally passes through Mexico City, Puebla, Querétaro, Guanajuato, and other major stops. More info here. 

Toy Fest Querétaro: Tim Burton Edition – October 17–18, Querétaro, Querétaro
More than 100 exhibitors gather for this Tim Burton-themed edition of Toy Fest. Browse Funkos, Hot Toys, vintage finds, and Burton collectibles. There’s also a cosplay contest, an illustrators’ area, themed live music, and food. It runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Entry is free. More info here. 

Expo Automóviles del Mundo 2026 – October 17–18, Guadalajara, Jalisco
More than 500 cars from different eras and styles gather at the UAG for this two-day celebration of automotive history. Explore standout cars from private collections, meet collectors and experts, and catch special presentations. There’s also a live auction of classic cars and automotive memorabilia. More info here.

Festival Internacional de Santa Lucía 2026 – October 20–November 4, Monterrey, Nuevo León
Festival Santa Lucía brings artists from around the world to Nuevo León. Expect music, dance, visual art, and other performances across multiple venues. It’s a citywide celebration of the arts, with international talent at its heart. More info here.

Ánimas Iluminadas 2026 – October 24, Mérida, Yucatán
More than 15 giant figures transform Parque de San Juan into a striking nighttime display. Inspired by Yucatecan culture and the arts, the monumental sculptures create a colorful celebration of local traditions. The installation opens at 6 p.m. and remains through November 20. It also kicks off Mérida’s Hanal Pixán (Yucatán’s Day of the Dead tradition). More info here.

Mega Procesión de Catrinas 2026 – October 25, Mexico City
Thousands of Catrinas fill central Mexico City for this spectacular Day of the Dead procession. Elaborate costumes, painted faces, and towering mojigangas bring the streets to life. The procession starts at the Ángel de la Independencia at 6 p.m. More info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

Lograr

Translation: To achieve / To accomplish / To manage to

Hacer is about doing something. Lograr is about achieving it or managing to make it happen. When you accomplish something or get the result you were hoping for, lograr is often the word you’ll hear.

¡Lo logré! — I did it! / I pulled it off!

¡Lo logramos! — We did it! / We pulled it off!

¿Lo lograste? — Did you manage to do it?

Ready to lograr more with your Spanish? 😉 Find trusted Spanish teachers and schools in Mexico, recommended by readers like you.

Find a Teacher 

🎯 Trivia Answer

A: Grutas de Cacahuamilpa.

Known to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, the enormous caverns in Guerrero were “discovered” by the outside world in 1833 and soon attracted international attention.

At the time, Cacahuamilpa was even considered the largest cave in the world. Its main gallery reaches up to 100 meters wide and 90 meters high, with formations rising as high as 50 meters.

Getting there was an adventure in itself. In the 19th century, the journey could take several days over difficult terrain, often traveling on foot, horseback or by mule. Presidents, scientists, artists and foreign dignitaries made the trek—and many carved their names into the rock as proof they had been there.

In 1865, Empress Carlota arrived on horseback and pushed farther into the cave than President Ignacio Comonfort had before her.

She later wrote that she didn't want “the Empire” to be left behind there either. She marked her progress with “Carlota llegó hasta aquí” – Carlota made it this far.

Nine years later, President Sebastián Lerdo de Tejada found her inscription, went farther and left a wonderfully competitive reply: “Sebastián Lerdo siguió adelante” – Sebastián Lerdo went farther.

Side note: I just finished a fascinating book about Emperor Maximilian and Empress Carlota – two European royals who somehow ended up ruling Mexico, with tragic consequences. It’s also a fantastic history lesson on 1860s Mexico – the French Intervention, Benito Juárez’s resistance, U.S. involvement and the battle over Mexico’s future. Check it out here. 

👋 Before You Go

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You need a foreign birth certificate, marriage certificate, diploma, or other document for a trámite in Mexico. Then you’re told it needs to be apostilled, notarized, legalized, or officially translated.

These requirements aren’t interchangeable, and understanding the difference can save you time, money, and unnecessary paperwork.

Do I Need an Apostille?

If a Mexican authority requires your foreign document to be authenticated, you may need an apostille.

An apostille authenticates the origin of a public document for use abroad.

It certifies the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the signer acted and, when applicable, the identity of the seal or stamp. It does not certify the document’s contents or guarantee that a Mexican authority will accept it.

An apostille is issued by a designated competent authority in the country where the document originates. A translator or Mexican notary cannot issue an apostille for your foreign document.

Government-issued records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates can often be apostilled without first being notarized.

However, requirements vary by jurisdiction. Don’t assume your document needs notarization first—check with the competent apostille authority and the Mexican authority receiving it.

When Does a Document Need to Be Notarized?

Notarization is more likely to come into play with documents that aren’t already official government records.

When required, notarization is usually completed in the jurisdiction where the notarial act takes place, by a notary or another official authorized to perform that notarial act under local law. Depending on the jurisdiction and type of notarization, that person may witness a signature, certify a copy, or confirm another specified fact.

If an apostille is also required, the resulting notarial certification may then be submitted to the competent apostille authority for the jurisdiction where the notarization occurred.

The apostille authenticates the notary’s signature and official capacity and, when applicable, the identity of the seal or stamp—it does not confirm that everything in the underlying private document is true.

Requirements vary, so check with both the apostille authority and the Mexican authority receiving the document.

Notarization does not replace an apostille.

When Is Legalization Required Instead?

When the Hague Apostille Convention applies between Mexico and the country from which a covered public document originates, an apostille replaces traditional consular legalization.

Some categories of documents are excluded from the Convention, so check the requirements for your specific document.

When the Convention does not apply, the document may instead need to go through the applicable authentication and Mexican consular legalization process.

For the same document, you generally use one authentication route: an apostille or legalization, not both.

Do I Still Need a Spanish Translation?

Possibly. Translation is a separate requirement.

If the Mexican authority requires an official Spanish version, the document may need to be translated by an authorized perito traductor. The apostille or legalization may also need to be translated. Translation requirements can vary by trámite and by the authority receiving the document.

For example, for Mexican naturalization, SRE requires a foreign birth certificate to be apostilled or legalized, as applicable, AND translated into Spanish by a perito traductor authorized by the judiciary of any Mexican federal entity.

Before paying for any of these services, check the requirements for your specific trámite, document, jurisdiction of origin, and Mexican authority.

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¡Hola amigos! This week, a possible U.S. diesel export ban has Mexico on alert, the economy grew faster than expected, and Mexico could soon spend more servicing its debt than building public infrastructure.

Plus, the real cost of a Mexican hospital stay without insurance, the Huasteca tradition where the dead return dancing, and a handy Spanish phrase for when something just isn’t worth it.

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❓México Trivia

Q: What famous Mexican icon started as a satire of people pretending to be European?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.

📣 México News Roundup

⛽ Sheinbaum says Mexico has enough diesel supply for now as Trump considers banning U.S. diesel exports. More than 40% of Mexico’s diesel demand currently comes from the U.S.

✈️ Aeroméxico suspends all flights to and from Tulum starting Sept. 30.

🔑 12 new hotels in Mexico earned Michelin Keys for 2026, bringing the country’s total to 98. See which hotels made the list.

👥 Mexico’s population is growing, but at its slowest rate in two decades.  

🔎 Sheinbaum says there are new leads in the investigation of the 43 Ayotzinapa students who disappeared in 2014.

💰U.S. investment in Mexico jumped nearly 15% in the first half of 2026, despite uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariffs and the USMCA review.

🛃 Mexico has removed more than 10% of its customs workforce since April as part of a crackdown on corruption.

💸 Mexico is projected to spend more servicing its public debt than building public infrastructure in 2027. 

🇰🇷 After seven years of negotiations, Mexico and South Korea reached a deal to update their investment agreement.

📈 Mexico’s economy grew 0.8% from June to July, well above the 0.2% forecast.

🎸 U2 just released its new “Silencio” music video, filmed inside Mexico City’s legendary 89-year-old Salón Los Ángeles. Check it out here.

🎹 Elton John announced free screenings of his 1995 “Elton in Rio” concert in CDMX, Guadalajara, and Zapopan Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, ahead of his Mexico City concerts later this week.

Taste Your Way Through Día de Muertos

Every October, Mercado Jamaica fills with marigolds destined for altars across Mexico City. But behind the flowers are the food, traditions and people that give Día de Muertos its meaning.

Eat Mexico takes you inside the city’s 24-hour flower market with a local bilingual culinary guide to uncover the stories and traditions behind the holiday, sample calabaza en tacha, pan de muerto, market antojitos and other seasonal specialties.

This experience is part of Eat Mexico's small, curated food tours in Mexico City and Puebla, designed to connect you with Mexican food and culture on a deeper level.

Day of the Dead at Mercado Jamaica runs October 20–November 1, with groups capped at eight.

Explore the Day of the Dead Tour

🍎 Your Health Pulse

What Happens If You Need a Hospital in Mexico without Insurance?

It’s easy to assume that because healthcare generally costs less in Mexico, paying out of pocket is manageable. But that can change quickly when something serious happens.

Private hospitals in Mexico often require large upfront payments before treatment, and non-residents are not eligible for public healthcare.

A single emergency can quickly turn into a major financial crisis, especially as medical costs continue to rise faster than general inflation.

Being uninsured doesn’t just affect what you pay…it can affect where you’re treated, how quickly you receive care, and what options are even available to you in an emergency.

Read More 

🧩 Life in México

In Case You Missed It

• Moving your household goods to Mexico? Don’t seal those boxes just yet. Here’s what to do before you pack.

• Who’s actually protecting you when you buy property in Mexico? It may not be who you think. Here’s what to know before you sign.

• Driving in Mexico? The car insurance mistakes that seem harmless can get expensive fast. Here are 8 to avoid.

🇲🇽 Viva México

Xantolo: When the Dead Return Dancing

Día de Muertos welcomes departed loved ones home with cempasúchil and candlelit ofrendas filled with favorite foods. But in the Huasteca, remembrance has its own rhythm.

It’s known as Xantolo and is celebrated across San Luis Potosí, Hidalgo, Veracruz, and neighboring states. Customs vary from one community to the next.

The name itself evolved from sanctorum, part of the Latin name for the Feast of All Saints. Over generations, Catholic observances became intertwined with Indigenous traditions that long predated the Spanish arrival.

The celebration can begin well before November 1. In parts of the Huasteca Potosina, offerings start on October 28, with different days dedicated to different groups of departed souls.

Like Día de Muertos, Xantolo also welcomes the departed with altars. But some of these ofrendas feature two arches that connect the worlds: one represents the entrance from the underworld; the other is the doorway to the living world. Seven supports hold the arches in place, symbolizing the seven mythical rivers that souls cross from Mictlán before arriving.

In some Náhuatl communities, the altar sits on a table. Among some Tének communities, it sits directly on the ground for a closer connection with the earth.

In Axtla de Terrazas, San Luis Potosí, Xantolo includes the Cambio de Fiscal, when a new cemetery guardian is appointed. For the next year, they are entrusted with watching over the resting place of the community’s departed.

And then there are the huehues, central to many Xantolo celebrations.

These masked dancers fill streets and plazas to the driving rhythms of son huasteco, played on violins, guitars, and jaranas. Their carved wooden masks transform them into old men, devils, animals, and even Death itself. 

Tradition holds that returning spirits hide inside the dancers’ bodies, while the masks keep Death from recognizing them so they can join the celebration.

Xantolo shares Día de Muertos’ heart: memory, family, and reunion. But in the Huasteca, that reunion unfolds through its own rituals, characters, and traditions.

🪷 Viva Wellness

Pericón: Mexico’s Herb of the Clouds

It looks like a tiny marigold, smells a little like anise, and has been part of local traditions for generations.

Pericón (Tagetes lucida), also known as Mexican tarragon or yerbanís, is an aromatic herb native to Mexico and Guatemala.

Its long history of use includes treating digestive troubles. The flowers and leaves are brewed into tea for stomach problems like cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Studies have found antispasmodic and antidiarrheal activity that may help explain its traditional digestive use. Other research is exploring its calming, pain-relieving, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant contains flavonoids and other compounds with antioxidant activity, which may help combat oxidative stress. 

Pericón isn’t only found in the medicine cabinet. Its licorice-like flavor is used to season corn and chayote and flavor drinks and liqueurs. And smoke from burning pericón was traditionally used to repel mosquitoes.

Pericón has deep ceremonial roots, too. Its Náhuatl name, yauhtli, means “herb of the clouds.” Maya and Mexica communities burned the plant as incense during ceremonies. During the colonial period, its bright flowers became part of Catholic traditions, and today it appears in Día de Muertos decorations.

And September 29 gives pericón another special significance.

In parts of Central Mexico, it is made into crosses and hung on doors and near cornfields for St. Michael’s Day. The tradition is believed to protect homes and crops from evil.

🎉 ¡Vamos! Events

Expo Feria Guadalupe 2026 – October 1–November 1, Guadalupe, Nuevo León
Livestock is the heart of this month-long northern fair. Exhibitions showcase different breeds and species from Nuevo León’s ranching industry. There will be plenty of entertainment, live music, regional crafts, traditional food, and a beer garden. More info here.

Valle de Catrinas 2026 – October 2–November 9, Atlixco, Puebla
Giant catrinas, some up to eight meters tall, take over Atlixco for Día de Muertos. Nineteen monumental figures appear around town, each inspired by pre-Hispanic gods. Local artists create the sculptures in cartonería, turning Atlixco into an open-air art route. The entire Valle de Catrinas display is free. More info here.

Festival Vino Sin Fronteras 2026 – October 3, Tijuana, Baja California
Wineries from both sides of the border come together for a day of wine and food. Forty wineries and 25 regional restaurants bring Baja California wine country together with invited producers from California. Guided tastings, cooking demonstrations, an Argentine grill, and a bar devoted to pét-nats and orange wines round out the afternoon. Local music runs into the evening. More info here.

Expo Manualidades y Navidad 2026 – October 7–10, Mexico City
Make a Christmas sweater for your dog, build a wreath, or create botanical resin jewelry. This four-day WTC expo is all about seasonal decorating, workshops and supplies for people who love crafts. More info here.

Grill Choice Fest 2026 – October 10, Chihuahua, Chihuahua
Your ticket includes unlimited servings from the festival’s grill menus. Menus run from brisket and short rib to pulled pork, BBQ ribs, and northern-style dishes. Plastilina Mosh and Jumbo lead the live-music lineup. More than 50 brands add tastings and interactive activities. More info here.

Festival Internacional de Cine de Morelia 2026 – October 16–25, Morelia, Michoacán
Morelia becomes Mexico’s movie capital for ten days. The official selection brings 96 Mexican films from 17 states, spanning features, documentaries, animation, and shorts. The wider program adds national and international premieres, retrospectives, tributes, and masterclasses. More info here.

Desfile de Alebrijes Monumentales 2026 – October 17, Mexico City
Giant technicolor creatures take over the streets for one of CDMX’s most fantastical parades. More than 200 handmade alebrijes roll from the Zócalo toward the Ángel de la Independencia. Drumming groups and live performances add to the spectacle. More info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

No tiene caso

Translation: There’s no point. / It’s not worth it.

If you translate no tiene caso word for word, you might end up with something like “it doesn’t have a case.” But in Mexico, you’ll hear it when someone thinks there’s no point in doing something.

Thinking about driving across town when the place is already closed?

No tiene caso ir hasta allá.
There’s no point in going all the way over there.

Or when continuing simply isn’t worth the effort:

Ya no tiene caso.
There’s no point anymore.

It’s a simple phrase for those moments when the effort, argument, or trip just isn’t going to get you anywhere.

🎯 Trivia Answer

A: La Catrina.

Long before she became an icon of Día de Muertos, she was La Calavera Garbancera, created by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada as social satire. Posada was born in Aguascalientes in 1852. The “garbanceros” he mocked were people who denied their Indigenous roots while trying to imitate European high society.

Posada’s original was just a skeleton shown from the shoulders up, wearing an extravagant French-style hat with feathers. The message was simple: fancy clothes and social status mean little when, underneath it all, we’re all skeletons.

Decades later, Diego Rivera transformed her into the elegant, full-bodied figure in his famous mural Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central and gave her the name we know today: La Catrina.

Looking to jazz up your Día de Muertos decorations this year? LEGO just released a 1,212-piece La Catrina, complete with marigolds, sugar-skull details—and a monarch butterfly she can hold in her hand.

👋 Before You Go

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Driving in Mexico comes with plenty of surprises. Your car insurance shouldn’t be one of them.

The problem is that many of us bring our assumptions about car insurance with us from the U.S. or Canada. 

We assume “full coverage” back home has us covered here. 

Or that, if we have the policy on our phone, we’re good to go.

Those assumptions can get expensive fast.

Mexico requires vehicles to carry third-party liability insurance, and that coverage is designed to pay for damage or injuries you cause to other people and their property. 

For foreign-plated vehicles, the required third-party liability coverage must be issued by a licensed Mexican insurer. U.S. and Canadian insurers cannot provide the liability coverage required under Mexican law.

But simply having a policy doesn't necessarily mean you have the protection you think you do. From inadequate liability limits to legal assistance and bond coverage, what’s included in your policy can matter enormously after an accident.

We asked Federico Ransom of Ransom Becker, a bilingual Mexico insurance specialist, about some of the most common – and potentially costly – car insurance mistakes he sees drivers make in Mexico.

Here are 8 mistakes worth checking before your next drive.

#1 Buying the Cheapest Liability Coverage You Can Find

Meeting a minimum requirement and being adequately protected are two very different things.

Liability insurance pays covered damages you cause to other people and their property, up to the limits of your policy.

A fender bender is one thing. 

Hitting an expensive vehicle or causing an accident where several people are injured can become costly.

The financial stakes can be considerably higher when an accident results in a death. 

“Under Mexican liability law, compensation can be calculated using a state-based formula and funeral expenses for each person killed, and the amount can vary significantly depending on the state where the accident occurs,” explains Ransom. 

That’s one reason carrying only the minimum liability limit can leave you dangerously underinsured after a serious accident.

Ransom recommends carrying at least MX$6 million in liability coverage rather than automatically choosing the minimum available.

#2 Overlooking Legal Assistance and Bond Coverage

A serious accident in Mexico can become a legal matter, not just an insurance claim.

Depending on the circumstances and the state where the accident occurs, if an accident involves injuries, you could be detained while authorities determine responsibility and the financial obligations are addressed.

“This is why legal assistance and bond coverage are so important,” says Ransom. “You want to know that, if something serious happens, you have an attorney who can help you through the process.”

Legal assistance can provide access to an attorney, while bond coverage can help with the financial requirements for your release when the circumstances are covered by your policy.

This can be particularly important if you don’t speak Spanish or aren't familiar with the Mexican legal system.

Check whether your policy includes legal assistance and bond coverage, what the limits are, and exactly who you should call if you’re detained after an accident.

#3 Assuming Your U.S. or Canadian Insurance Has You Covered in Mexico

If you drive a U.S. or Canadian-plated vehicle in Mexico, your home-country liability insurance does not satisfy Mexico's mandatory third-party liability requirement. 

That coverage must be issued by a licensed Mexican insurer.

Your U.S. or Canadian policy may still provide certain coverage while your vehicle is in Mexico, but that depends entirely on the policy. 

Some policies provide limited coverage for your own vehicle, belongings, or medical expenses, while some U.S. policies cover only the first 25 miles across the border or restrict coverage to infrequent visits.

None of that replaces the Mexican third-party liability coverage you're required to carry.

Another potentially expensive mistake is buying liability-only Mexican coverage because you assume your U.S. or Canadian policy will still cover damage to your own vehicle.

That may not be the case.

Before choosing a policy, confirm what your home-country insurance covers while your vehicle is physically in Mexico and whether you need broader Mexican coverage to protect your own car.

#4 Keeping Your Insurance Policy Only on Your Phone

A digital copy of your insurance policy may be convenient, but Ransom recommends keeping a printed copy in your vehicle.

“I always tell my clients to keep a printed copy in the glove compartment. It can save you the headache of a traffic officer asking for a paper copy when all you have is your phone,” says Ransom.

There’s another reason to keep it accessible. 

If you’re injured and unable to contact your insurance company yourself, someone else can make the call on your behalf.

Keep your printed policy, vehicle registration, insurance company’s claims number, and agent’s contact information together in your vehicle.

#5 Making a Side Deal with the Other Driver

After an accident, the other driver may offer you cash to settle the damage on the spot or to keep you from filing an insurance claim.

“It may seem like an easy solution, but don’t accept money or make an agreement with the other driver,” warns Ransom. “If you do, your insurance company will decline your claim.”

You could also accept an amount that seems reasonable at the scene, only to discover later that the actual repair costs much more.

Call your insurance company and let the adjuster handle the claim.

#6 Assuming Rental Car Coverage Is Automatically Included

If your car is damaged in an accident and spends days or weeks in the body shop, you may need a rental car while you wait.

Don’t assume your insurance company will pick up the bill.

Check whether rental car coverage is included in your policy. If it isn’t, you may need to specifically add it.

If you only have one vehicle, this is worth checking before you need it.

#7 Not Having Your Driver's License and Documents with You

If you're in an accident and can't produce a valid driver's license, the police can fine you, and your insurance adjuster can decline your claim until you prove you have one.

“The claim isn't permanently declined. It's temporarily declined until you can prove that you have a valid license,” explains Ransom. “And your license doesn't have to be Mexican. A valid foreign driver's license is accepted for insurance purposes as long as it hasn't expired.”

Ransom recommends keeping the following information available in your vehicle and making sure your documents are current:

• Valid driver's license

• Vehicle registration

• Printed insurance policy

• Insurance company's claims number

• Insurance agent or broker's contact information

#8 Assuming the Other Driver Has Insurance

“Estimates are that only 1 in 3 vehicles in Mexico is insured,” says Ransom. 

That means if another driver causes an accident, there’s a good chance they may not have insurance to cover the damage or have the money to pay for repairs or medical expenses out-of-pocket. 

Those costs can add up quickly. 

A serious accident can involve medical treatment for you or your passengers, major vehicle damage, or even a totaled car.

With no insurer on the other side to pay the claim, your own coverage becomes especially important.

Ask what your policy covers if you're hit by an uninsured driver, including damage to your vehicle and medical expenses for you and your passengers.

Make Sure You’re Covered for the Unexpected

Federico Ransom of Ransom Becker is a bilingual Mexican insurance broker who can help you understand your coverage and compare car insurance options from multiple insurers for Mexican-plated and U.S. or Canadian-plated vehicles.

Get a Quote

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¡Hola amigos! This week, Aeroméxico is under investigation over a possible data breach affecting millions of customers, Mexico plans to spend billions modernizing thousands of kilometers of highways, and a U.S. Navy torpedo somehow ended up in Mexican waters.

Plus, what you need to know about the RFC, what to do after a car accident, and the story of Mexico’s legendary Aztec Eagles.

And to our readers who could be affected by Hurricane Polo this week, stay safe out there.

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❓México Trivia

Q: What natural wonder is thriving deep in Tabasco, far from where you’d expect to find it?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.

📣 México News Roundup

🔐 Aeroméxico is facing an investigation into a possible data breach involving more than 15 million customer records after an alleged database was offered for sale online.

⚠️ President Sheinbaum blamed rising violence in Sinaloa on U.S. involvement in the 2024 arrest of “El Mayo” Zambada.

📵 Starting Nov. 3, Mexico will ban cellphones and tablets in elementary and middle schools during both class time and recess, except for emergencies or specific schoolwork.

📜 The 16th-century Azcatitlan Codex is back in Mexico for the first time since 1840 and will be on display at Mexico City’s National Museum of Anthropology through December.

🤝 The next round of U.S.–Mexico USMCA review talks has been postponed. A new meeting is expected toward the end of September.

🇺🇸 Mexico plans to buy more American goods as part of the USMCA review.

🥃 Authorities in Guanajuato seized 531 bottles of adulterated or counterfeit tequila during a raid in León.

🌽 White corn prices jumped 6% over the past month, but the government says there’s no reason to raise tortilla prices.

🛣️ Mexico plans to invest US$37.6 billion to build and modernize more than 11,000 kilometers of highways, bridges, and bypasses across the country.

🎯 A U.S. Navy practice torpedo went missing off California and drifted into Mexican waters near Ensenada.

🍎 Your Health Pulse

In Case You Missed It…

• Counterfeit and stolen medication reports are on the rise in Mexico, including drugs used for cancer, diabetes, and hormone therapy. Here’s what to watch for.

• Prescription prices are up in Mexico, but there are ways to keep your costs down. Here are 5 pharmacy programs that can help you save. 

• If you had a medical emergency in Mexico, could you get back home for treatment? Here’s how medical evacuation coverage works. 

📍Immigration Essentials

Do You Really Need an RFC?

You don’t have to work or own a business in Mexico to need an RFC. Mexico’s tax ID may be needed for banking, official invoices, property transactions, and other financial matters.

If you’re a Temporary or Permanent Resident, here’s what you need to know about the RFC, how it differs from your CURP, and how to register with SAT.

Read more

🧩 Life in México

Car Accident in Mexico? Here’s Exactly What to Do

Most of us know the basics after a car accident. But in Mexico, what happens after the crash may not work the way you’re used to.

What seems like a simple decision at the scene can have consequences you may not anticipate, particularly if someone is injured or responsibility for the accident isn’t immediately resolved.

Knowing what to do — and what not to do — can make a difficult situation much easier to navigate.

Read More

🇲🇽 Viva México

Mexico’s Legendary Aztec Eagles

IIn 1945, fighter planes streaked across the skies above the Philippines, their tails marked in green, white, and red. Thousands of kilometers from home, the Mexican pilots of Escuadrón 201 were flying combat missions against Japanese forces.

Mexico remained neutral during the early years of the World War II. But in May 1942, German U-boats sank the Mexican oil tankers Potrero del Llano and Faja de Oro, killing 22 sailors.

Within days, Mexico declared war on Germany, Italy, and Japan.

Two years later, a 300-man Mexican expeditionary air unit headed to the U.S. for combat training. It included 36 volunteer pilots and 264 ground personnel. Their unit, Escuadrón 201, would be known as the Aztec Eagles.

While training in the U.S., some of the Mexican airmen encountered prejudice from their American counterparts. Rather than argue, they became determined to prove what they could do.

They also adopted an unlikely mascot: Panchito Pistoles, the pistol-packing Mexican rooster from Disney’s The Three Caballeros. His image became the squadron’s unofficial symbol as they headed into combat.

In the Philippines, the Aztec Eagles supported American and Filipino troops fighting below. They flew low, bombing and strafing Japanese positions.

Other missions took them hundreds of kilometers north toward Formosa, today’s Taiwan. Loaded with bombs and flying over open water, some missions lasted a gruelling seven hours.

In just a few months, the squadron flew nearly 800 sorties. Eight of the original 36 pilots were lost during training, combat, and long-range operations.

They returned to Mexico in November 1945, receiving a hero’s welcome with a parade through Mexico City in their honour. The Aztec Eagles also made Mexican military history as the country’s only military unit to engage in combat outside its borders.

Today, a monument to Escuadrón 201 stands in Bosque de Chapultepec. Nearby is another dedicated to the Niños Héroes, military cadets who died during the defense of Chapultepec Castle against U.S. troops in 1847.

🪷 Viva Wellness

Achiote: Mexico’s Beauty Seed

Long before “clean beauty” became a thing, Indigenous communities in Mexico were using a natural pigment to color and decorate their skin.

Achiote (Bixa orellana) is a tropical American tree long cultivated in Mexico and Central America.

Crack open its spiky fruit, and you’ll find clusters of seeds ranging from yellow-orange to deep crimson. With color that intense, it’s easy to see why it earned the English nickname “Lipstick Tree.”

Traditionally used as body paint, achiote also had medicinal purposes. Preparations were used on wounds, burns, and skin irritations, and as sun protection and insect repellent. Leaves and seeds were also used in infusions for digestive complaints, including heartburn and diarrhea.

Achiote’s color comes largely from bixin, a carotenoid concentrated in the outer coating of the seeds. It also contains antioxidants, including flavonoids and tocotrienols (a form of vitamin E). Together, these compounds help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.

Achiote seed extract is also used in skincare products marketed for dark spots, wrinkles, and other signs of skin aging. Its natural pigment is used in cosmetics, adding warm reds and oranges to lipsticks, blushes, and eyeshadows.

It’s also widely used as a natural food colorant in products ranging from dairy and baked goods to meats and seasonings.

Achiote is just as useful in the kitchen. Its earthy, slightly sweet, peppery flavor works well in marinades, tamales, stews, and sauces. Most famously, achiote gives cochinita pibil and carne al pastor their unmistakable rusty-red color and distinctive flavor.

🎉 ¡Vamos! Events

Fiestas del Sol 2026 – September 25–October 11, Mexicali, Baja California
Fiestas del Sol turns 50 with a big dose of nostalgia and music. This year revisits its history with tributes to figures from past celebrations. Nightly shows range from rock and pop to regional Mexican and urban sounds. More info here.

Xantoluz 2026 – October 1–November 2, Monterrey, Nuevo León
Xantoluz returns with a month-long immersive Día de Muertos celebration. Traditional altars, a Mictlán zone, and dramatic lighting set the scene. More than 20 shows run daily, with live music and dance throughout. Alebrijes, a mariachi plaza, and family activities. More info here.

La Alborada 2026 – October 2–3, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato
Through the night of October 2, neighborhood groups carry giant paper stars through San Miguel. Bands strike up as mojigangas draw crowds into the streets. Before dawn, the procession pours into the center, and the crowd swells. Then La Alborada explodes overhead in a relentless barrage of fireworks honoring San Miguel Arcángel. More info here.

Festival Internacional Cervantino 2026 – October 3–18, Guanajuato, Guanajuato
For 16 days, Guanajuato becomes the center of Mexico’s cultural calendar. The 54th Cervantino brings 2,746 artists from 29 countries. France takes the spotlight as this year’s guest of honor. The program ranges from opera and major concerts to film and contemporary dance. More info here.

Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica 2026 – October 4–7, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
Michelin-starred talent joins this four-day celebration of food and drink. Watch top chefs cook live, alongside tastings, gourmet workshops, and mixology. All the action is at the Sheraton Buganvilias, in Puerto Vallarta’s Hotel Zone. More info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

This week's lesson comes from Julie Amaro at Connections Language School, one of the reader-recommended teachers featured in The Insider's Guide to Spanish Teachers in Mexico.

Ganas 

If you’ve spent any time in Mexico, you’ve probably heard the word ganas. 

This word is often translated into English as motivation, but it is used differently in Spanish. 

Employers looking for workers post signs that say “con ganas de trabajar,” meaning they’re looking for someone willing and eager to work. But when a friend says, “tengo ganas de ir a la playa,” they’re saying, “I feel like going to the beach.”

If someone says “no tengo ganas de salir,” they mean they don’t feel like going out. 

But if they say, “no aguanto las ganas de verte” they can’t wait to see you. 

In Spanish you can do something sin ganas (without enthusiasm or without enjoying it), with mala gana (not wanting to do it but doing it anyway) or with muchas ganas (with lots of enthusiasm). 

No matter your level of Spanish, tengo ganas de is easy to use, as it requires no verb conjugations. 

All you need is “tengo ganas de” + an infinitive verb phrase…and just like that you can start suggesting new things to do with your friends. 

Try it:

• Tengo ganas de tomar una chela. /  I feel like having a beer.

• Tengo ganas de comer tacos de birria. / I feel like eating birria tacos.

• Tengo ganas de meterme en la alberca. / I feel like getting in the pool.

Want more practical Spanish like this?

Julie Amaro is the owner and teacher at Connections Language School in La Peñita de Jaltemba, Nayarit. She specializes in helping adults in their 60s and 70s build confidence and overcome the challenges that can come with learning Spanish later in life.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/33connections 
Email: amarojewels@gmail.com 

🎯 Trivia Answer

A: A mangrove forest.

In southeastern Tabasco, near the Guatemala border, a mangrove forest is thriving up to 170 kilometers from the ocean. Even more surprising, it grows along the freshwater San Pedro River, within today’s Wanha’ Biosphere Reserve in Balancán and Tenosique.

So how did a coastal ecosystem get there?

Scientists traced it to the Last Interglacial, roughly 120,000 years ago, when the climate was warmer and relative sea levels here were 6–9 meters higher. The ocean pushed into present-day Tabasco, allowing mangroves to colonize the area. Then the climate cooled, and the sea retreated. The mangroves stayed behind.

Researchers found mangrove DNA linked to Gulf Coast populations, more than 100 coastal plant species, and fossil oyster shells from an ancient coastal lagoon.

More than 100,000 years later, a piece of Mexico’s ancient coastline is still alive nowhere near the coast.

👋 Before You Go

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If you get into a car accident in Mexico, what should you do first? Who do you call? And what should you avoid doing while you wait for help?

We asked Mexico car insurance specialist Federico Ransom of Ransom Becker Insurance Solutions to walk us through the process step by step.

#1 Prioritize Safety

If your vehicle is in a dangerous spot or at risk of another collision, move it to a safer location. If you have time before moving it, take photos of where the vehicles came to rest.

#2 Call 911 and Your Insurance Company

Even if the accident seems minor, call 911 and your insurance company immediately. 

Your insurer will dispatch an adjuster, while tránsito will document the accident and begin determining responsibility. Once you've reported the accident, wait for the adjuster to arrive before leaving.

If anyone is injured, tell your insurance company when you report the accident. An injury can turn the accident into a legal matter, so your insurer needs to know injuries are involved.

Unlike in the U.S. or Canada, drivers in Mexico don't typically exchange insurance and driver's license information at the scene. The police and insurance adjuster handle the process.

If you’re injured and unable to call, someone else can contact your insurer on your behalf. Keep a printed copy of your policy and claims number in your glove compartment so that information is available if you can’t access your phone.

#3 Stay at the Scene and Document the Accident

Do not leave the scene until the police and adjuster have completed what they need from you.

If someone is injured, leaving without providing assistance or waiting for authorities can have serious legal consequences.

If the other driver leaves, don’t chase them. If you can, photograph their vehicle and license plate and give that information to the police and your adjuster.

Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, damage, and overall accident scene. They can help establish what damage was – and wasn't – caused by the accident.

Note: If you’re injured and have international health insurance, make sure you obtain a copy of the police report. You’ll need it to file a claim.

#4 Don't Admit Fault

Even if you think you caused the accident, don't admit responsibility at the scene. You may not fully understand how the applicable traffic laws affect who is at fault.

Stick to the facts about what happened and let the authorities and insurance adjuster determine responsibility. 

If responsibility can't be resolved at the scene, you may be required to go to the traffic police station while the accident is reviewed.

#5 Don't Make a Cash Deal

The other driver may offer you money – or ask you to pay them – to settle the accident on the spot. 

Don’t do it.

If you make a private agreement with the other driver, your insurance company can decline your claim. You also have no way of knowing the full cost of the damage at the scene. If you accept a cash payment and repairs turn out to cost much more, you could be left paying the difference yourself.

Let your insurance adjuster handle the claim before you agree to or pay anything.

What If Someone Is Injured?

Depending on the circumstances and the state where the accident occurs, you could be detained while authorities determine responsibility and financial obligations. The process varies by state.

If your car insurance includes legal assistance and bond coverage, it can cover attorney assistance and eligible bond expenses up to your policy limits.

An Accident Is the Wrong Time to Find Out Your Coverage Falls Short

Without adequate coverage, an accident can mean more than a repair bill – you could face legal expenses and other costs your policy doesn't cover.

Whether you drive a Mexican-, U.S.-, or Canadian-plated vehicle, a bilingual broker can help you review your coverage and compare your options before you need them.

Get a Quote

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¡Feliz Día de la Independencia, amigos! This week, urban food costs are rising, Mexican workers could get paid time off when a pet dies, GMO corn is causing more friction in U.S.-Mexico trade talks, and a brain-eating amoeba has turned up in Mérida.

Plus, what to know before packing your household goods for a move to Mexico, a refresher on some of your most-asked immigration questions, and the Spaniard who crossed the Atlantic to fight for Mexico’s freedom.

And in honor of El Grito tonight, we’re breaking down the words behind all those ¡Vivas! so you know exactly what you’re shouting along to. Wherever you’re celebrating tonight, amigos… ¡Viva México!

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❓México Trivia

Q: Which Mexico City skyscraper changed what engineers thought was possible? 

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.

📣 México News Roundup

🛒 The cost of the basic food basket increased 4.5% over the past year in Mexico’s cities, outpacing overall inflation.

🦠 A brain-eating amoeba was found in an artificial lake in Mérida after the infection killed a 34-year-old aquatic instructor. The lake is now closed.

✈️ Volaris to launch nonstop flights between Raleigh-Durham and Guadalajara starting Oct. 16.

🐾 A Morena lawmaker introduced a bill that would give Mexican workers three days of paid leave when their pet dies.

⚡ Mexico’s proposed 2027 budget slashes energy spending by 69%. 

🌽 GMO corn remains a sticking point in U.S.-Mexico trade talks as Mexico fights to protect its native corn varieties.

🛢️ Mexico deployed 255 troops to contain a Pemex oil leak about 85 kilometers off the coast of Campeche.

☕ Dr. Simi plans to expand Café Simi to around 20 coffee shops across Mexico by the end of 2026. 

🇪🇸 Spain’s University of Granada suspended student exchange programs with a university in Morelos after a 21-year-old Spanish exchange student was killed last weekend.

📦 Exports of Mexican unroasted coffee beans surged nearly 92% in 2025, with the U.S. buying most of it.

💰 New foreign investment in Querétaro jumped 2.5X in the first half of 2026, second only to Baja California Sur.

🏈 The NFL returns to Mexico City on Nov. 22 with the Vikings taking on the 49ers at Estadio Banorte. Ticket presales are happening now, with general sales opening Sept. 22.

📍Immigration Essentials

In Case You Missed It

• Stopped at an immigration checkpoint in Mexico? Know your rights.

• Applying for Permanent Residency as a couple doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll both receive the same residency status. Here are three ways to apply.

• What exactly is your CURP used for? Here’s what it is and why you need it.

🧩 Life in México

Moving Household Goods to Mexico? Don’t Seal Those Boxes Yet

If you’re getting ready to move to Mexico, you’re probably already sorting, donating, packing. Maybe you’re putting things into storage until you’re ready to move down.

But don’t tape up those boxes just yet.

Chuck Bolotin of Best Mexico Movers says this is a problem he sees all the time: people put their belongings into storage before realizing what they should have documented first.

For starters, you may need two inventories: one for Mexican customs and another for insurance. Labeling something “Box #12: Kitchen” isn’t going to cut it. For customs inventory, items such as TVs, computers, appliances and electronics may need to be listed separately with the make, model and serial number for customs clearance.

Depending on the insurance policy, higher-value items may need to be listed individually. Taking photos before they’re packed is also a smart idea.

That’s easy to do when everything is still in front of you. Not so easy when it’s packed in a box at the back of a storage unit.

Then there’s what goes inside those boxes.

The menaje de casa is the process by which the Mexican government allows us to import our used household items into Mexico. Every legitimate move uses the menaje de casa. 

Some everyday household items cannot be included on a Menaje de Casa, such as perfume, toothpaste, spices, and supplements. 

For insurance, how you pack and store your belongings can affect damage coverage later. Depending on the insurance and how the goods were originally handled, items may need to be unpacked and repacked before the move to obtain damage coverage.

There are a lot of moving parts, but it’s easy when you know what to do – and in what order – with help from an expert like Best Mexico Movers. Otherwise, you could end up digging through storage and doing it all over again.

See what to do before you pack, plus get Best Mexico Movers’ free Master Inventory template.

Read More

🇲🇽 Viva México

The Spaniard Who Fought for Mexico’s Freedom

Mexico’s fight for independence produced many unlikely heroes. One of them was a Spaniard.

In 1808, Napoleon’s army invaded Spain, and a young university student named Francisco Xavier Mina abandoned his studies to join the resistance.

He soon emerged as a skilled guerrilla leader. His fighters repeatedly ambushed French troops and disrupted their supply lines. 

His success made him a target. Captured and badly wounded, he spent four years imprisoned in France. 

There, Mina befriended French general Victor Fanneau de La Horie, an opponent of Napoleon, from whom he learned military tactics and French while his own liberal political convictions continued to develop.

When Mina returned home to Spain, Napoleon was defeated, and Fernando VII was back on the Spanish throne. He was offered command of Spanish troops heading to Mexico to fight the independence movement. But he refused. 

He’d become disillusioned with the king, who was undoing many of the freedoms and reforms he had fought to defend. To him, Mexicans were fighting for the same freedom he had fought for in Spain.

After a failed rebellion against the king, Mina fled to England. There, he connected with supporters of Mexican independence. His journey eventually took him to Haiti, where he met Simón Bolívar before continuing toward Mexico.

In April 1817, he landed in Mexico with just over 300 men. It was a critical moment. Hidalgo had been dead for years, Morelos had been executed in 1815, and Mexico’s independence movement had entered a desperate struggle for survival.

Soon after arriving, Mina issued a proclamation explaining why a Spaniard had crossed the Atlantic to fight alongside Mexican insurgents. “The cause of the Americans is just,” he declared, calling it “the cause of free men.” He argued that your homeland wasn’t simply the place where you were born, but the place that protected your rights.

Mina brought years of guerrilla experience with him. Alongside Mexican insurgents, he won a string of early victories.

The campaign put royalist forces under pressure and gave the independence struggle a much-needed boost. But it didn’t last. After a failed attack on Guanajuato, Mina was captured at Rancho del Venadito.

On November 11, 1817, he was executed by firing squad — shot in the back as a traitor.

Mina’s entire campaign in Mexico lasted less than seven months. But six years after the Spanish Crown executed him as a traitor, independent Mexico honored him alongside Hidalgo, Morelos, Allende and other heroes of the independence movement.

Today, his remains rest alongside other heroes beneath Mexico City’s Independence Column.

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🎉 ¡Vamos! Events

Festival Carne y Vino 2026 – September 19–20, Nogalera San Bernardo, Chihuahua
Chefs from Chihuahua and beyond fire up the grills at this outdoor festival. Live cooking and a dramatic Open Fire show bring plenty of action. Regional wines feature in tastings throughout the day. As evening falls, live music keeps the crowd lingering outdoors. More info here.

Feria San Francisco Pachuca 2026 – September 24–October 18, Pachuca, Hidalgo
More than 130 artisans and food producers from across Hidalgo will gather at this 25-day fair. On show will be many of the region's craft traditions, including textiles, ceramics, woodwork, and metalwork. General admission includes concerts and cultural events. More info here.

Feria Xcaret de Arte Popular Mexicano 2026: September 24–27, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo
Master artisans from across Mexico will be showing their work. Eighteen craft traditions are represented, from textiles and ceramics to Wixárika art. Watch artisans at work during live demonstrations. There are also artisan fashion shows, talks, and a competition. More info here.

Festival CulturaUNAM 2026 – September 25–October 11, Mexico City
A packed arts program takes over UNAM venues with theater, dance, opera, film and live music. International highlights include John Malkovich, Camerata Salzburg and productions from the Comédie-Française. Expect everything from contemporary performance to experimental works, alongside major Mexican talent. More info here.

Circuito Cervantino 2026 – September 26–October 28, Multiple Cities Across Mexico
Think of it as the Festival Cervantino on tour. One of Mexico’s biggest cultural festivals is going beyond Guanajuato to 32 cities in 16 states around the country.. Expect everything from live music and opera to contemporary dance, cabaret, film, and experimental work. It’s a chance to catch Cervantino far beyond its famous home base. More info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

Tonight, plazas across Mexico will come alive for El Grito. You already know when to shout ¡Viva! — but do you know exactly what’s being said?

The names and phrases can change depending on who is giving the Grito, but before the celebration begins, here’s a look at the words behind all those ¡Vivas!

🎯 Trivia Answer

A: The Torre Latinoamericana.

When plans for the Torre Latinoamericana took shape in the late 1940s, engineers faced a serious problem: how do you build a skyscraper in an earthquake-prone city that is also sinking into the soft clay of an ancient lakebed?

Their solution was ambitious. Beneath the tower, they drove 361 concrete piles down about 33 meters to a hard layer of sand and built a foundation system that helps the tower move with seismic forces rather than rigidly resist them. Above it, they used a flexible steel frame designed to withstand the sideways forces of an earthquake.

The 44-story tower opened in 1956, becoming the first skyscraper successfully built in a highly seismic zone. 

A year later, that engineering was put to the test.

On July 28, 1957, a powerful earthquake damaged roughly 1,000 buildings in Mexico City and sent the seven-ton Ángel de la Independencia crashing from its column. The Torre remained standing.

Then came September 19, 1985. Buildings across the capital collapsed, but the Torre survived again. It also withstood the deadly September 19, 2017 earthquake, cementing its reputation as an international example of seismic engineering.

Seventy years after it opened, the Torre Latinoamericana still rises above the Centro Histórico. It wasn’t simply designed to reach for the sky. It was designed for the ground beneath it.

👋 Before You Go

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Immigration checkpoints raise frequent questions from foreign residents about who can stop you, what documents to show, and when a checkpoint is legal.

Here’s what Mexico’s Ley de Migración (Migration Law) says…

Who Can Legally Stop or Question You?

According to the law, only immigration authorities (Instituto Nacional de Migración / INM) can directly request or retain a foreigner’s immigration documents. Police, the Guardia Nacional, or any other authority may participate only when formally assisting the INM, and not on their own.

This authority is defined across three key articles:

• Article 16 – Obligations of Migrants: Foreigners with regular immigration status must “safeguard and protect the documents that prove their identity and situation” and “show them when requested by immigration authorities.”

• Article 17 – Retaining Documentation: “Only immigration authorities may retain the documentation proving a migrant’s identity or immigration status when there are elements to presume it is falsified.”

• Article 96 – Cooperation of Other Authorities: Other agencies may cooperate with the INM “when requested,” but this does not authorize them to independently perform immigration checks or detain migrants.

In practice, only INM agents may ask to see or hold your immigration documents. Police or military personnel may not legally conduct immigration inspections unless acting under INM’s supervision.

What Makes a Checkpoint Lawful?

Under Mexican law, immigration checkpoints are legal only when formally authorized and led by INM officials under a written order. Random or roving stops without proper documentation are not valid.

Two key articles define these limits:

• Article 92 – Verification Visits: The INM may conduct verification visits only for specific, legally justified purposes, such as confirming information or verifying an expired visa, and each must be supported by written justification. These are administrative reviews, not random inspections.

• Article 97 – Immigration Reviews: The INM may carry out immigration inspections within the country, but every operation must be backed by a formal written order (orden fundada y motivada) specifying who is in charge, the assigned personnel, the geographic area, and the duration of the inspection.

Mexico’s Supreme Court has ruled that suspicionless or arbitrary immigration checks violate constitutional rights. Legitimate checkpoints are authorized, documented, and led by INM officials.

What to Do If You Are Stopped

• Politely confirm that the officer belongs to the INM (ask to see official identification).

• Present your valid residency card or passport if requested by INM personnel.

• You are not required to show documents to police or military unless they are assisting INM under a formal written order.

If you cannot immediately show your documents, INM may verify your immigration status through administrative procedures, not criminal ones. Under Article 68, you can be held for verification for no more than 36 hours while your situation is checked and documented.

An Accident Is Not the Time to Find Out Your Car Insurance Falls Short

A car accident in Mexico can mean more than a repair bill — you could face legal costs, an impounded vehicle, or thousands in unexpected expenses.

Whether you drive with Mexican, U.S., or Canadian plates, a bilingual broker can help you understand your coverage and compare options before you need it.

Explore Your Options

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¡Hola amigos! This week, Mexico is expanding the emergency alerts sent to your cellphone, a Volaris-Viva merger could put roughly 75% of domestic air travel under one roof, and we break down key takeaways from President Sheinbaum’s latest Government Report.

Plus, what you need to know about counterfeit medications in Mexico, what it takes to become a Mexican citizen, and what foreign home buyers often get wrong about Mexican notaries.

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❓México Trivia

Q: What September observance marks a decision that changed Mexico’s borders?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.

📣 México News Roundup

📱 Mexico will expand its cellphone emergency alerts beyond earthquakes later this year, adding warnings for hurricanes, fires, volcanic activity, severe weather and more.

🦟 Confirmed dengue cases are down 37% nationwide from last year, but cases have more than doubled in Sonora and Baja California Sur.

✈️ Volaris will fly nonstop between Cancún and Los Cabos three times a week starting Dec. 1. 

🛫 The U.S. and Colombia approved the proposed Volaris-Viva merger, leaving Mexico’s antitrust regulator as the key hurdle. If approved, the combined airlines would control about 75% of Mexico’s domestic air traffic.

🚛 Mexican truckers blocked the Mexicali-Calexico East border crossing last Thursday over U.S. visa revocations, raising concerns the dispute could spread to other crossings.

🛡️ Mexico and the U.S. launched “Operation High Eagle” along the Tijuana-San Diego border to disable drones used by cartels to monitor military and police movements.

🥩 Mexico sent its first pork shipment to Paraguay, opening a new market for Mexican producers.

🧠 President Sheinbaum launched “El ABC de las emociones,” a weekly mental health program for 6.8 million Mexican students. 

🌽 Mexico is working to preserve and develop native corn production through community initiatives in Veracruz and Oaxaca. 

🍎 Your Health Pulse

Counterfeit Medication Reports Rise in Mexico

Between November 2025 and May 2026, COFEPRIS issued 30 alerts involving counterfeit or unapproved medications and another 12 related to pharmaceutical theft.

The medications involved include treatments used for cancer, diabetes, fertility, hormone therapy, and more. Some cases involve altered expiration dates and falsified lot numbers, while stolen medications pose another concern because their storage and transportation conditions can’t be verified.

Read More

📍Immigration Essentials

How to Become a Naturalized Mexican Citizen

A Mexican passport, full citizenship rights, and the ability to own property near Mexico’s beaches and borders without a fideicomiso – naturalization comes with some significant advantages.

But do you qualify? And what does the process involve?

From residency and physical-presence requirements to Spanish and history exams, there are several boxes to check, along with a few important considerations that come with becoming a Mexican citizen.

Read More

🧩 Life in México

The Mexican Notary: What Foreign Home Buyers Often Get Wrong

When you buy property in Mexico, a Notario Público plays a central role in the legal side of the transaction.

That can create a dangerous assumption for foreign buyers: if a highly qualified lawyer is overseeing the transaction, everything must be covered. Not quite.

Understanding the notary’s actual role, and where it ends, is an important distinction to know before you make an offer.

Read More

🇲🇽 Viva México

Leona Vicario: The Secret Agent of Independence

At social gatherings in Mexico City, a young Leona Vicario listened as conversations turned to politics and the growing rebellion.

To those around her, she was a wealthy, well-educated young woman from one of the capital’s privileged families. But Leona was far more than the young socialite she appeared to be. She was hiding a dangerous secret.

As she mingled at these gatherings, Leona collected information for those fighting for independence. She passed what she learned on to insurgent leaders.

Leona was part of Los Guadalupes, a secret network supporting the independence movement. But information wasn’t her only contribution. 

She used her wealth to provide money, medicine, and supplies. Leona sheltered fugitives. She even convinced a group of Basque gunsmiths to defect to the insurgency and manufacture rifles at Ignacio López Rayón’s camp in Tlalpujahua.

The deeper Leona became involved, the harder it was to keep her activities hidden. In early 1813, authorities intercepted one of her couriers. Warned that her activities had been exposed, Leona fled Mexico City.

Authorities eventually captured her and imprisoned her at the Colegio de Belén de las Mochas. She was only 24 years old.

Despite intense questioning, Leona refused to identify her fellow conspirators. Insurgent allies eventually helped her escape, and she continued supporting the rebellion while living on the run.

Years later, powerful politician and historian Lucas Alamán questioned her motives. He suggested romance, not patriotism, had driven Leona to join the rebellion. Leona fired back, declaring that women were just as capable of being inspired by “the glory and freedom of the homeland.”

She had already put her fortune, freedom, and safety on the line for Mexico’s independence. 

Her country recognized her sacrifice, too. During the independence struggle, Leona was honored as Benemérita de la Patria, essentially, a national heroine. Her remains rest alongside other heroes of the movement inside the Monument to Independence beneath El Ángel on Paseo de la Reforma.

🪷 Viva Wellness

Xoconostle: Mexico’s Sour Prickly Pear

Xoconostle isn’t your typical prickly pear. While most are known for being sweet and juicy, this native Mexican fruit takes things in the opposite direction. Its name comes from the Náhuatl words xoco (sour) and nochtli (prickly pear) – and with its firm texture and sharp, acidic bite, the name fits.

Xoconostle has been part of Mexican food culture since pre-Hispanic times, with a long history in traditional medicine. It has traditionally been used for stomach ailments, while xoconostle tea is used to soothe coughs and irritated throats.

It contains calcium, potassium, and vitamins C and K. A single fruit can provide up to 199 mg of vitamin C, more than an orange or peach. That vitamin C supports immune function and tissue repair.

Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress, while vitamin K supports healthy bones and normal blood clotting. The high fiber content aids digestion and helps you feel full. It also has prebiotic properties.

Unlike other prickly pears, xoconostle has a smooth, edible peel. Its mucilage, a type of soluble fiber, may play a role in how xoconostle affects blood sugar and fat metabolism

Research suggests the peel may help control blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes. Studies have also explored its effects on cholesterol and triglycerides, with mixed results.

Xoconostle also keeps remarkably well and can be stored for more than three months after ripening.

Fresh xoconostle is in season now, so it’s a good time to put its distinctive sourness to use in the kitchen. It can be roasted with chiles and garlic for salsa or simmered into soups and stews. It can also be used in mole and salads.

🎉 ¡Vamos! Events

Apapaxoa Festival GastroCultural Xcaret 2026: September 18–23, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo
Chefs representing more than 70 Michelin stars gather for six days of ambitious dining and culture. Expect collaborative dinners, workshops, art, music, and a gastronomic book fair. A spectacular 35-course anniversary dinner accompanies Xcaret México Espectacular. The festival closes with a concert by Emmanuel. More info here.

Tláhuac Beer Fest 2026: September 19, Tláhuac, Mexico City
Dozens of craft breweries come together for this free festival. Expect IPAs, stouts, porters, and lagers, plus live bands and DJs. A cultural corridor brings graffiti and urban art into the mix. There’s also a photography exhibition offering different perspectives on Tláhuac. More info here.

Guadalajara LATE with the Performing Arts 2026 – September 18–27, Guadalajara, Jalisco
Eight free performing arts productions take over four venues across the city this September. The program spans theater, dance, and live music, with shows for different ages. No advance tickets are required. Entry is first come, first served, so arrive early. More info here.

MUBI Fest 2026 – September 18–20, Guadalajara, Jalisco
MUBI’s international film festival makes its local debut at the Cineteca Universidad de Guadalajara. The three-day program includes Mexico premieres, restored 4K classics, and outdoor screenings. Highlights include new films from Nicolas Winding Refn and Hirokazu Kore-eda, plus a screening and Q&A with Argentine director Martín Rejtman. More info here.

Feria Cultural del Añil – September 26–27, Santiago Niltepec, Oaxaca
See how one of Mexico’s most striking natural pigments goes from plant to brilliant blue dye. Niltepec has kept this centuries-old craft alive using traditional techniques. The fair brings the process to life through workshops, art and local makers. More info here.

Vuelta Chapala 2026 – September 26, Lake Chapala, Jalisco
A grueling 232.5 kilometers around Lake Chapala sets the challenge for this cycling event. The route crosses 11 municipalities. Asphalt, cobblestone, and unpaved sections add to the difficulty. The selective field includes experienced riders from Mexico, the U.S., and Canada. More info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

¿Qué tanto...?

Qué tanto is used when you want to know the amount or degree of something, and its English meaning changes depending on what comes next.

When someone tells you the salsa is “poquito picante,” there’s one question you may want to ask before taking their word for it: ¿Qué tanto pica? (How spicy is it?)

Waiting for the plumber who said he'd be finished ahorita? Ask ¿Qué tanto falta? (How much longer? / How much is left?)

And when a new friend tells you they've traveled all over the country, try ¿Qué tanto conoces México? (How well do you know Mexico?)

🎯 Trivia Answer

A: Día de la Anexión de Chiapas.

September 14 marks the day Chiapas formally declared its incorporation into Mexico in 1824... well, part of it.

Chiapas declared independence from Spain in 1821 and initially joined Agustín de Iturbide’s Mexican Empire. But when the empire collapsed in 1823, Chiapas faced another decision: join Mexico, join Guatemala and the emerging Central American federation, or remain independent.

Ciudad Real – today’s San Cristóbal de Las Casas – and Comitán favored Mexico, while Tuxtla favored Guatemala. When Mexico established its new federation in January 1824, the issue was still unresolved, so Chiapas wasn’t yet part of it.

The decision went to a direct public vote. On September 12, 1824, the vote favored Mexico. Two days later, Chiapas formally declared its incorporation into the Mexican federation.

Congress approved it on October 2. But Soconusco, along today’s Guatemala border, wasn’t included. It remained in political “neutrality” and wasn’t incorporated into Mexico until 1842, nearly two decades later.

👋 Before You Go

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_{By Jeffery Kimmel, Esq.}

For a foreginer buying a home in Mexico, one of the most important, and most commonly misunderstood, parts of the transaction is the role of the Mexican Public Notary.

The confusion is understandable.

In Mexico, a Notario Público is a specially trained lawyer appointed by the state. The notary plays a central role in a real estate transaction and is responsible for making sure the transaction is conducted according to Mexican law and properly registered.

To an American or Canadian buyer, that can sound a lot like having an attorney representing you.

It is not.

The Notary Does Not Represent the Buyer

The notary does not represent the buyer.

The notary does not represent the seller.

Instead, the notary serves a legal and governmental function in the transaction.

This distinction is fundamentally different from the experience many Americans are accustomed to when buying property in the United States.

A foreign buyer may therefore assume that because a highly qualified lawyer is overseeing the transaction, someone is automatically protecting the buyer's individual interests.

That assumption can be dangerous.

The notary's responsibility is to ensure that the transaction complies with Mexican law and that the deed is properly prepared and registered. That is not the same thing as having an attorney whose client is the buyer.

Why This Matters

Consider the difference between these two questions:

The first is: "Is this transaction legally capable of closing under Mexican law?"

That is part of the notary's role.

The second is: "Is this transaction in my best interests as the buyer?"

That is a different question.

A buyer's attorney can approach the transaction specifically from the buyer's perspective – reviewing the Purchase and Sale Agreement, examining the documentation, identifying potential problems and advising the buyer about the legal consequences of the transaction.

For a foreign buyer unfamiliar with the Mexican system, that distinction can be particularly important.

The Notary Is Still Essential

None of this means the notary is unimportant. Quite the opposite.

The notary plays a central role in the Mexican closing process. The notary prepares the deed and oversees the legal formalities necessary to complete and register the transfer.

Foreign buyers purchasing property in Mexico must also obtain an authorization from Mexico's Secretary of Foreign Relations, commonly known as an SRE permit, before the deed can be registered in their name.

The permit is specific to the property and to the notary handling the transaction. It is not a generic permit that a foreign buyer can obtain once and use for future purchases.

The buyer's signature is required, and the permit is incorporated into the deed.

Central Mexico Has an Important Advantage

Central Mexico is outside Mexico's Restricted Zone.

Mexico's Restricted Zone includes land within one hundred kilometers of its international borders and within fifty kilometers of its ocean coastline. 

Foreigners cannot acquire direct title to land in those areas and generally must use structures such as a fideicomiso, or bank trust, or a Mexican corporation.

Central Mexico is outside those zones, meaning foreigners can purchase property there directly, subject to the applicable requirements.

That makes the process considerably more straightforward for foreign buyers.

But straightforward does not mean identical to the American system.

Know Who Represents You

The Mexican notary is a critical part of the transaction.

But the notary is not your attorney.

Foreign buyers should understand that distinction before they make an offer, not after the transaction has already begun.

The question is not whether there is a lawyer involved.

There will be.

The question is: Is there an attorney whose client is you?

About the Author

Jeff Kimmel is the founder of Kimmel Realty Group, a San Miguel de Allende brokerage
focused primarily on serving foreign buyers. Kimmel Realty Group is the only brokerage in San Miguel de Allende that provides its buying clients with their own attorney to represent them in the transaction, through an engagement letter, at no additional cost to the client.

That distinction reflects Kimmel's belief that foreign buyers need someone specifically
responsible for protecting their interests—not simply someone facilitating the sale.
Kimmel has been a member of the California Bar since 1980 and has had a lifelong connection to Mexico, beginning in 1973. In 2012, he and his wife, Marty, moved from San Francisco to San Miguel de Allende. He later became a partner in the Mexican law firm Portilla, Ruy-Diaz y Aguilar and entered the San Miguel real estate business in 2017.

Today, Kimmel continues to practice law and real estate in San Miguel de Allende, where he lives with his wife. His work focuses on helping foreign buyers understand both the opportunities of owning property in Mexico and the legal and practical differences that make buying a home there very different from buying one in the United States.

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¡Hola amigos! This week, eggs and onions got pricier while avocados and tomatoes gave your grocery bill a break, dual nationals could be shut out of Mexico’s top political positions, and of all the things complicating U.S.-Mexico trade talks, we’re now squabbling over cheese names. 

Plus, how to save on prescription meds, the car insurance assumptions that can cost you in Mexico, and the midnight ride that helped change Mexican history.

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❓México Trivia

What giant religious statue in Mexico got a makeover because it looked too much like Phil Collins?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.

📣 México News Roundup

🛒 Egg prices jumped 7.9% from July to August. Onion prices surged 19.03% from late July to early August.

📉 On the bright side, potato, avocado and tomato prices dropped in early August.

🧀 Thanks to the new EU-Mexico trade deal protecting European cheese names, there’s now a U.S.-Mexico dispute over whether American cheesemakers will be able to sell cheeses in Mexico under names like parmesan and feta.

🥷 Mexico raised $1.78 billion by selling Samurai Bonds to investors in Japan in order to diversify its borrowing beyond U.S. and European markets.

♻️ Mexico’s first solar panel recycling plant opened in Jalisco.

📱 A security vulnerability in a mobile operator’s system for Mexico’s mandatory cellphone registration exposed the personal data of more than 13,000 users.

🏛️ President Sheinbaum presents her second Government Report today on Mexico’s progress and her administration’s record over the past year.

🔎 Foreign acquisitions of Mexican companies in industries such as AI, energy, and data could face national-security screening under a new proposal before the Senate.

🚗 Uber drivers are accusing the company of underreporting their earnings to IMSS by as much as 25%.

📦 Mexico’s exports hit a record US$81.4 billion in July, the highest monthly total ever.

🇲🇽 President Sheinbaum proposed a constitutional reform that would bar Mexicans with dual nationality from serving as president or state governor.

🍎 Your Health Pulse

How to Save on Prescription Meds

Prescription costs continue to climb in Mexico. Even as overall inflation fell to 3.12% in July, INEGI data shows several common medications – including antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs, gastrointestinal medications, and diabetes drugs – have been rising faster than inflation for months.

But where you fill your prescription can make a difference. Mexico’s major pharmacy chains offer some surprisingly good discounts and loyalty programs. If you take medication regularly, these can add up.

Read more

📍Immigration Essentials

What Is a CURP and Why Do You Need One?

Let’s be honest. The CURP isn’t exactly the most exciting topic, but your CURP pops up in more places than you might realize – from banking and healthcare to taxes and government paperwork.

Whether you’re new to Mexico or could use a quick refresher, here’s what you need to know about your CURP, including the shift to a new biometric version. 

Read more 

🧩 Life in México

Driving in Mexico? Avoid These Car Insurance Mistakes

Simply having a car insurance policy in Mexico doesn’t necessarily mean you have the protection you think you do.

From inadequate liability limits to legal assistance and bond coverage, what’s included in your policy can make a big difference after an accident.

And this matters whether you drive a Mexican-plated vehicle or have tourist insurance on a foreign-plated vehicle.

We asked Mexico insurance specialist Federico Ransom of Ransom Becker about the biggest mistakes and misconceptions he sees drivers make.

Here are 8 mistakes you need to know.

🇲🇽 Viva México

The Midnight Ride That Changed Mexico

By September 1810, the secret plan to overthrow Spanish rule was unraveling.

Authorities had received multiple warnings about the planned uprising. A list of conspirators was in the viceroy’s hands, and the locations of hidden weapons had been exposed.

The rebels were running out of time.

Ignacio Pérez Álvarez was an alcaide, or jailer, of the city’s royal prison. But his loyalties lay with the independence cause.

Fellow conspirators Miguel Domínguez, Querétaro’s chief magistrate, and his wife, Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez, knew the plot had been exposed. Tasked with rounding up the rebels, Miguel deliberately stalled to buy them time.

Josefa was confined inside their home, but she found a way to contact Pérez. Through the keyhole of a locked door, she told him to find Ignacio Allende and warn the insurgent leaders.

Pérez mounted a horse and rode for San Miguel de Allende.

The full route from Querétaro to Dolores stretched roughly 110 kilometers, crossing trails, ravines, and hills. Pérez rode through the night, changing horses along the way. When Pérez reached San Miguel, Allende was already in Dolores with Miguel Hidalgo. 

What happened next depends on the historical account. 

Some versions say Pérez delivered Josefa’s warning to Juan Aldama, who carried it on to Dolores. Others say Pérez accompanied Aldama there himself. There is no definitive proof Pérez made that final leg of the journey.

What is clear is that Pérez had gotten the urgent warning out of Querétaro and into the hands of the insurgents. Authorities were already moving to arrest Allende and Aldama and were prepared to arrest Hidalgo if necessary. But word had reached the rebel leadership first.

Without Pérez’s warning, the authorities might have captured the insurgent leaders before they could ignite the rebellion. Mexico’s fight for independence might never have unfolded as it did, and Hidalgo’s historic El Grito might never have been heard.

🪷 Viva Wellness

What Bugambilia Can Do for Your Health

Originally native to South America, bugambilia (Bougainvillea spp.) is a familiar sight across Mexico’s gardens, streets, and walls.

But those colorful, papery “flowers” aren’t what they seem. They’re bracts, or modified leaves that surround the tiny white or cream-colored blooms in the center.

Those bracts also have a long history of use in herbal medicine. Traditionally, they’ve been brewed into tea for coughs and other respiratory symptoms. Bugambilia is also used for digestive complaints, including diarrhea, nausea, and stomach discomfort.

Bugambilia contains flavonoids and betalains (the natural pigments behind the bracts’ vivid colors). Studies on bougainvillea extracts have found antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity. Early research has explored potential effects on blood sugar and cholesterol. However, more evidence is needed.

If you’re picking your own, stick to the colorful bracts and watch out for the thorny stems—the sap can cause severe skin irritation.

Making bugambilia tea is simple:

• Wash 3–6 fresh bracts with their small flowers attached

• Bring 500 ml (about two cups) of water to a boil

• Add the bugambilia and boil for 5 minutes

• Remove from heat and steep for 10 minutes

• Strain and add honey or lemon to taste

Some Mexican preparations add orange, cinnamon, or thyme. And it doesn’t have to be hot. Let the infusion cool, pour it over ice, add fresh lemon, or top it with agua mineral for a little fizz.

🎉 ¡Vamos! Events

Feria Nacional de Zacatecas 2026: September 4–20, Zacatecas City
Zacatecas marks its 480th anniversary with 17 days of festivities. The state’s biggest annual fair features free concerts, charrería, cultural shows, and family entertainment. Artisan exhibits and regional food round out the program. Special events also coincide with Mexico’s Independence celebrations. More info here.

Festival de Pan Dulce Mexicano 2026 – September 11–13, Coyoacán, Mexico City
Conchas, orejas, cocoles, and other Mexican favorites take center stage at this new three-day food festival. Sample traditional breads and explore a temporary museum dedicated to Mexican baking. The festival follows the recent recognition of pan dulce as part of Mexico City’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. More info here.

Fiestas Patrias 2026: September 11–27, Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato
Dolores Hidalgo is where the original Grito took place in 1810. Its Independence celebrations run for 17 days, with nightly concerts, a traditional fair, circus performances, and family events. September 15 is the centerpiece, when crowds fill the historic center for one of Mexico’s most symbolic Independence celebrations. More info here. 

Vans Warped Tour México 2026: September 12–13, Mexico City
Finally in Mexico after more than 30 years, the legendary Warped Tour arrives for two packed days. More than 80 bands are on the bill. Beyond the music, expect high-flying skate and BMX demos. There are also acoustic sets, artist meet-and-greets, and Record Label Row. More info here.

Échale Flores a México 2026: September 12–13, Jardines de México, Morelos
Chinelos, Morelos’ famously colorful masked dancers, join horse shows and live music for this Independence season celebration. Traditional cooks serve regional dishes, alongside a month-long chiles en nogada festival. The event also features artisan workshops, theater, and Mexican folk performances. Tlaltizapán de Zapata joins as this year’s special guest. More info here.

Festival Internacional del Globo de Papel 2026: September 12–16, San Andrés Tuxtla, Veracruz
Celebrating 112 years of tradition, this five-day festival showcases monumental handmade paper balloons. Watch the elaborate creations take flight during daytime and nighttime launches. Workshops, concerts, and a taco fair round out the program. On closing night, 10,000 smaller sky lanterns are released simultaneously. More info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

Me vale cacahuate

What does a peanut have to do with not caring? Absolutely nothing. And that’s what makes this Mexican expression so good.

Me vale cacahuate is a colloquial way of saying “I don’t care” or “It doesn’t matter to me.”

Lo que diga la gente me vale cacahuate.
I don’t care what people say.

Want to keep building your Spanish?

Explore The Insider’s Guide to Spanish Teachers in Mexico and find trusted teachers and schools recommended by fellow readers.

Browse the Guide

🎯 Trivia Answer

A: A giant Baby Jesus in Zóquite, Zacatecas.

Standing 6.58 meters (21ft) tall and weighing 750 kilos (1653 lb), the enormous Niño Dios towers over the Parish of the Epiphany of the Lord in Zóquite. It took a year to create, was made by artisans in Chimalhuacán, State of Mexico, and cost around 280,000 pesos. Local parishioners funded the statue.

Its unusual size was practical. The church has a roughly 8-meter-high ceiling, so parish priest Humberto Rodríguez wanted the statue to fit the scale of the space.

But when the Niño Dios was unveiled in 2019, photos went viral. People couldn’t get over its resemblance to Phil Collins. Some saw Nicolas Cage, too.

Before the church was consecrated in January 2020, the Niño Dios received a makeover. Its bright blue eyes were changed to brown, its abdomen reduced, its hair was restyled with short bangs, and its facial features were softened to better reflect the local population.

See what it looked like before the makeover and after. 

👋 Before You Go

New to El Expat Insider Mexico? Subscribe.

Have a story tip? Reply to this email and tell us about it.

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Check out our picks for the best books about Mexico.

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*Some links in this newsletter may be from affiliates or sponsors, meaning we may earn a commission if you make a purchase.

¡Hola amigos! This week, Mexico's economy delivered a surprise, electricity demand hit a record high, hundreds took to the streets in Guadalajara over concerns about contaminated tap water, and Baja California is getting Latin America's largest desalination plant.

Plus, three ways couples can apply for Permanent Residency, what insurance covers when medical tourism leads to complications, and a closer look at Mexico’s most iconic landmark.

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❓México Trivia

Q: What Mexican dish looks like an old regional tradition, but was only invented just three years ago?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.

📣 México News Roundup

📊 Mexico’s economy rebounded in the second quarter, growing 1.4% – its fastest quarterly pace since 2022.

✈️ Aeromexico plans to launch nonstop flights from Mexico City to Milan next March.

🌎 U.S.-Mexico air travel fell nearly 6% in June, while Mexico-France travel jumped 14%.

💻 Federal government websites went offline for about 90 minutes after a connectivity outage took down sites across the gob.mx domain.

⚡ Mexico’s electricity demand hit a record 54,300 megawatts in July, breaking the previous high set in 2023.

💧 A $304 million desalination plant will be built in Rosarito. Once complete, it will be Latin America’s largest desalination facility for human consumption.

📈 Mexico’s annual headline inflation rose to 3.26% in early August, up from 3.10% a month earlier.

💰 Mexico’s central bank says inflation may not return to its 3% target until late 2027.

🚰 Hundreds protested in Guadalajara demanding clean water after studies found E. coli and heavy metals in tap water.

🚙 Mexico unveiled its Olinia electric mini-truck, expected to go on sale for around 150,000 pesos in late 2027. Check out this cutie. 

🌳 Mexico City plans to plant 1 million native trees by 2030.

🍓 The U.S. hit Mexican strawberries with preliminary tariffs over claims they were being sold below fair value. 

🐄 Mexican cattle imports to the U.S. finally resumed yesterday after a yearlong ban.

🍎 Your Health Pulse

What Exactly Is Medical Tourism Insurance?

Whether it’s dental implants in Mexico, cosmetic surgery in Turkey, or stem cell treatment in Bulgaria, traveling abroad for medical care has become an option for everything from major dental work to elective procedures.

But what happens if you have a complication?

If you think travel insurance picks up the tab, think again. Traditional travel insurance is generally designed for unexpected events that happen while you're traveling.

That’s where medical tourism insurance comes in.

It’s designed specifically for medical and dental procedures outside your home country and can cover eligible complications related to your treatment – including, in some cases, complications diagnosed after you’ve returned home.

Read More

📍Immigration Essentials

3 Ways Couples Can Apply for Permanent Residency in Mexico

Applying for Permanent Residency as a couple doesn’t automatically mean both partners will receive the same residency status.

Whether you’re married or common-law partners, the deciding factor is whether you both qualify independently or one partner’s application depends on the other.

Read More

🇲🇽 Viva México

A Closer Look at the Angel of Independence

Instantly recognizable, the golden figure of the Angel of Independence has stood above Paseo de la Reforma since 1910. The monument was inaugurated on September 16, 1910, for the centennial of Mexican Independence. She has since become one of Mexico City's most beloved symbols.

Despite her nickname, she isn’t actually an angel. The sculpture is a Victoria Alada (Winged Victory), representing Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. “El Ángel” is the popular nickname that stuck.

She stands atop the 36-meter column of the Monument to Independence. Inside, a 200-step staircase leads to an observation deck near the top.

In her raised right hand, she holds a laurel wreath to crown the triumphant insurgents; from her left hangs a broken three-link chain, symbolizing three centuries of Spanish rule. At the base are allegorical figures representing Law, War, Justice and Peace, along with a lion led by a child, representing strength in war and intelligence.

The monument is also a mausoleum.

Fourteen heroes of Mexican Independence are entombed inside, including Miguel Hidalgo, José María Morelos and Vicente Guerrero. Leona Vicario, a journalist who helped finance the independence movement, is the only woman among them.

Mexican architect Antonio Rivas Mercado designed the monument, drawing inspiration from European monumental columns including Trajan’s Column in Rome and the Victory Column in Berlin. Italian artist Enrique Alciati created its bas-reliefs and sculptures, including the Angel herself. Cast in bronze and covered in gold, she stands 6.7 meters (22 feet) tall and weighs seven tons.

She remained atop the column for nearly five decades.

Then, on July 28, 1957, a powerful earthquake sent her crashing to the ground.

El Ángel broke into pieces. Over the next 14 months, the monument was restored and reinforced, then re-inaugurated in September 1958.

One piece of Alciati’s original never returned to Reforma: her battered bronze head. Today, it is displayed at the entrance to the Archivo Histórico de la Ciudad de México in the Centro Histórico.

🪷 Viva Wellness

The Health Benefits Behind Those Ruby Seeds

Granada season is in full swing, with Mexico’s harvest running from roughly July through early October. Known botanically as Punica granatum, granada originated in a region stretching from Iran into parts of Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Spanish missionaries brought it to Mexico, where it became established in central Mexico. Puebla is believed to be where the first crops took hold, with Tehuacán becoming an important production area.

Long before modern researchers became interested in granada, different parts of the fruit and plant were traditionally used to treat diarrhea, intestinal parasites, sore throats, and other ailments.

Modern research has focused heavily on its polyphenols, naturally occurring plant compounds known for their antioxidant activity. It also provides vitamin C, folate, potassium, and fiber.

A 2024 analysis of 22 randomized clinical trials found granada consumption significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, although researchers noted considerable differences among the studies.

Research also suggests it may modestly lower blood glucose. Granada's polyphenols also interact with gut bacteria, which convert some of them into compounds called urolithins currently being studied for their potential effects on intestinal health.

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🎉 ¡Vamos! Events

Gran Fiesta Franco-Mexicana – September 1–November 29, 21 Cities Across Mexico
Mexico and France mark 200 years of diplomatic relations with a major cultural program across 21 Mexican cities. Nearly 200 events are planned. The program spans exhibitions, theater, dance, film, literature, and gastronomy. Major French participants include the Centre Pompidou and Comédie-Française. More info here.

Copa Internacional de Natación – September 3–6, Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro
Some of the world’s leading swimmers head to Querétaro for four days of international competition. Olympic champions Adam Peaty, Kyle Chalmers, and Thomas Ceccon are among the headline athletes. Tickets are available to the public. More info here.

Festival Cultural del Hongo – September 4–6, San José del Pacífico, Oaxaca
San José del Pacífico celebrates its mushroom traditions for three days in Oaxaca’s Sierra Sur. Forest walks focus on observing and identifying local fungi. Talks cover mushrooms, conservation, and traditional medicine. The program also includes food and artisan markets, live music, and the festival’s first trail run. More info here.

Cocinarte 2026 – September 5, Tecate, Baja California 
Around 20,500 tastings are planned for the 21st edition of Tecate’s long-running food festival. More than 35 exhibitors showcase Baja California flavors, from BajaMed cuisine to regional wines and craft beer. Seventeen Tecate chefs also take part in live cooking demonstrations using local ingredients. More info here.

XXV Campeonato Charro – September 5, Guadalajara, Jalisco
The International Mariachi and Charrería Festival closes with a celebration of Mexico’s national sport. The 25th Campeonato Charro brings nine teams to the Lienzo Charro “Nito” Aceves for three competitions. Escaramuzas and live international mariachis add to the atmosphere throughout the day. More info here.

Baja’s Best Arts & Crafts Festival – September 5–6, Playas de Rosarito, Baja California
CEART Rosarito hosts more than 60 artists from Mexico and the United States for this free festival. Meet the artists and browse original work available for sale. Local wineries, craft beer, food stalls, and live music add to the weekend atmosphere. More info here.

Feria Artesanal del Café y Chocolate – September 11–13, Coyoacán, Mexico City
Coffee and cacao take center stage at this free three-day fair in Coyoacán. Producers from across Mexico showcase artisanal coffee and chocolate, with tastings and products available to buy. Visitors can also discover Mexican crafts and enjoy live music and cultural experiences. More info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

¿Con quién podría hablar para resolver esto?
Translation: Who can I speak with to get this resolved?

Ever tried fixing a billing issue only to get passed around like a hot potato? This is a polite way to skip the runaround and ask for the person who can help resolve the problem.

Use it at the bank, a doctor’s office, with your internet provider, or anytime you need to get to the right person without sounding demanding.

🎯 Trivia Answer

A: Chile Chontal.

Chile Chontal was created in 2023 after Tabasco was invited to participate in the first International Chile en Nogada Festival in Mexico City. Chef Jorge Orozco challenged the state to create its own version of chile en nogada using regional ingredients.

Tabasco turned to chef Alfonso Castañeda, who created a poblano chile stuffed with buffalo rib eye, pork, plantain, regional fruit sweets, almonds and capers. It’s covered in a sauce made with four cheeses, cashews and 70% chocolate, then topped with candied cacao nibs.

The result was Chile Chontal – a Tabasco-style version of chile en nogada designed to showcase the flavors and ingredients of Tabasco, including the cacao and chocolate for which the state is famous. 

Chontal is a Nahuatl word meaning “foreigner.” The Maya-Chontal people of Tabasco actually call themselves Yokot'anob or Yokot'an, or “the people who speak the true language.”

See the full recipe here.

👋 Before You Go

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Mexican immigration law recognizes married couples and common-law partners, including same-sex partnerships.

Just because you’re applying as a couple for Permanent Residency doesn’t automatically mean both partners will receive the same residency status.

The deciding factor is whether both partners qualify independently or whether one partner’s application depends on the other.

For direct Permanent Residency based on economic solvency, applicants must be retired or pensioned, even if they meet the financial requirements.

There are three ways couples can apply:

1. Apply Together as principal Applicant and Dependent Partner

At a Mexican consulate abroad, one partner can apply as the principal applicant for Permanent Residency and the other as a dependent.

The principal applicant must meet the financial requirements for Permanent Residency plus an additional 220x UMA for the dependent partner. The couple must also provide a marriage certificate or proof of a common-law partnership.

If approved, the principal applicant receives a Permanent Residency visa, while the dependent partner receives a Temporary Residency visa, initially issued for 1 year (then renewable for 3 more). Both visas must then be exchanged for residency cards in Mexico.

The dependent partner renews Temporary Residency after the first year for a further three years and can apply for Permanent Residency after four consecutive years.

2. One Partner becomes Permanent. The Other Applies through Family Unity.

One partner can obtain Permanent Residency through a Mexican consulate first. The other can then enter Mexico as a visitor and apply in Mexico through Family Unity (Unidad Familiar).

If the first partner applies using a jointly held account, the account must show double the required income or savings/investments.

Under this route, the second partner is typically granted up to two years of Temporary Residency. After two years, they can request Permanent Residency if the relationship still exists.

Additional proof of economic solvency is usually not required for the Family Unity application.

Married couples need an apostilled or legalized marriage certificate and, when required, a Spanish translation by an officially recognized translator. Common-law partners should confirm with the local INM office what evidence is required.

3. Both Partners Apply Independently.

If each partner independently qualifies for Permanent Residency using individually named income or savings/investment accounts, each can apply separately. A marriage certificate is not required in this situation.

If they use jointly held accounts, those accounts must show double the required income or savings/investments, and a marriage certificate is required.

Health insurance in Mexico doesn’t have to be confusing.

Planning your life in Mexico comes with plenty of decisions. Health insurance shouldn’t be one of the complicated ones.

Skip the endless searching and connect directly with a vetted broker who can match coverage to your needs. Peace of mind starts with the right policy.

Find your broker today

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¡Hola amigos! This week, Mexico struck a deal to buy U.S. military drones, 3 banks failed the Mexican Treasury’s performance review, and President Sheinbaum wants to release some people jailed for minor offenses or held without a sentence.

Plus, what happens if your Mexican cell phone gets disconnected, the question every foreigner should ask before buying property in Mexico, and the teenage healer Porfirio Díaz called “the most dangerous girl in Mexico.”

And our new Insider Mexico Reading List is live. More on that below.

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❓México Trivia

Which August 22 tradition traces its date to Veracruz in 1873?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.

📣 México News Roundup

🛡️ Mexico and the U.S. signed a defense deal that will let Mexico buy drones and anti-drone systems through the U.S. Army’s marketplace. 

🏦 The Mexican Treasury gave 3 banks a “zero” rating: Shinhan Bank, Bancrea and Credit Suisse Bank. The other 46 banks passed.

📰 A Wall Street Journal columnist accused President Sheinbaum’s administration of using new media rules to “muzzle” the press. We covered the proposed new rules last week.

💵 6 major banks agreed to pay $86.4 million to settle claims they rigged Mexico’s government bond market. 

🚗 Mexico is pressing the U.S. to eliminate or reduce tariffs on Mexican cars and steel during the USMCA review.

🔓 President Sheinbaum said her government is working on releasing people imprisoned for theft or minor offenses, as well as people who remain detained without a sentence. 

🌾 China and Mexico are looking to expand agricultural trade.

🇲🇽 Mexico is among more than 40 countries accused by the White House of helping China dodge U.S. tariffs.

📱 President Sheinbaum will consult more than 1 million teachers next week before moving forward with nationwide rules on cell phones in schools.

💼 Goldman Sachs’ president met with Sheinbaum as her administration seeks to attract institutional Wall Street capital.

🍎 Your Health Pulse

In Case You Missed It 

• Health insurance in Mexico comes with its own language, and not knowing it can lead to costly mistakes. Here are 7 Spanish health insurance terms you need to know.
  

• What if you’re comfortable paying for everyday healthcare in Mexico, but want a backup plan for the big stuff? Here’s when catastrophic health insurance may make sense.
  

• Adding your kids to a health insurance policy doesn’t always mean they get the same benefits you do. Here’s what families need to know.

🧩 Life in Mexico

_{Guest Expert Jeffery Kimmel, Kimmel Realty Group}

The Mexico Property Trap: Who Is Really Protecting You?

For foreigners accustomed to buying real estate in the United States, Canada, or Europe, purchasing property in Mexico can involve a fundamentally different legal and financial process.

The transaction may look familiar on the surface: find a property, make an offer, sign a contract, deposit money and close.

But beneath that familiar sequence is a different system – with different responsibilities and, most importantly, a different answer to a question many buyers never think to ask…

Who is actually protecting my interests?

Read more 

Daily news for curious minds.

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🇲🇽 Viva México

The Most Dangerous Girl in Mexico

The year was 1889. Teresa Urrea was just 16 when she suffered convulsions and fell into a coma. Her family believed she had died. They built her a coffin, dressed her for burial, and gathered for her wake.

Then, during the wake, she sat straight up.

Afterward, she entered a prolonged trance-like state that reportedly lasted nearly 3 months. When she finally recovered, Teresa believed she had been given the gift of healing.

Using her hands, herbs, earth, and oil, she treated anyone who came to her. Word spread fast. Soon, more than 200 people a day were reportedly making the journey to Cabora, Sonora, seeking cures from the young woman they called La Santa de Cabora.

But she rapidly became much more than a curandera.

Teresa spoke out against injustices committed by the clergy and President Porfirio Díaz’s government. She championed equality and the rights of the poor. Her message resonated especially strongly among Yaqui and Mayo communities. Many were confronting land loss and government repression.

Then her name became a battle cry.

Rebels in Tomóchic, Chihuahua, shouted “¡Viva la Santa de Cabora!” Similar cries accompanied an Indigenous uprising in Sonora. There’s no conclusive evidence Teresa organized either rebellion. But her name had become impossible for the government to ignore.

In 1892, at just 19, she was expelled from Mexico. Díaz reportedly called her “the most dangerous girl in Mexico.” Exile didn’t silence her. From across the border, Teresa continued healing, attracting followers, remaining a constant challenge to Díaz’s government.

Her influence followed rebels into battle. During later uprisings in northern Mexico, fighters reportedly carried images of La Santa de Cabora in their pockets as symbols of protection, freedom, and justice.

Teresa went from nearly being buried to becoming a sought-after healer and symbol of resistance – all while still a teenager. Mexico’s “most dangerous girl” didn’t need a weapon. Getting people to believe change was possible was dangerous enough.

🪷 Viva Wellness

The Sonoran Desert’s Gift to Your Skin

Long before jojoba made its way into modern beauty products, Indigenous communities were using it to protect their skin from one of North America’s harshest environments.

It softened and protected skin exposed to intense sun, dry air, and wind. Jojoba was also used for burns and wound care. During times of severe hardship, people ate the seeds raw or roasted and even brewed them into a coffee-like drink. 

Native to the Sonoran Desert of Mexico and the southwestern U.S., jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) is built for extremes. The hardy shrub thrives in intense heat with very little water. Its thick, waxy leaves limit water loss, while deep roots seek out moisture underground. Among the Comcaac people of coastal Sonora, jojoba is known as haat.

Its use in Baja California was documented as early as 1789, when historian Francisco Javier Clavijero described Indigenous communities using jojoba for food and wound care.

About half of each jojoba seed is made up of the substance we call jojoba oil. Despite the name, it’s actually a liquid wax that closely resembles our skin’s natural sebum. That similarity makes jojoba especially effective at supporting the skin’s natural barrier.

Jojoba also contains vitamin E and antioxidant compounds that help combat inflammation and oxidative stress. Research suggests it can support collagen formation and skin elasticity and help soothe sunburned skin.

🎉 ¡Vamos! Events

Materias Indóciles – August 21–28, Aguascalientes
Art breaks out of its usual boxes at this new festival devoted to work that crosses creative boundaries. Seven projects bring different artistic disciplines together. The free program also includes conversations and masterclasses. The focus is on experimentation and new approaches to contemporary art. More info here.

FASMA 2026: From the Vatican to San Miguel – August 23, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato
FASMA’s final weekend brings a rare opportunity to hear the principal organist of St. Peter’s Basilica. Josep Solé Coll performs a free recital at the historic Templo de la Tercera Orden. The program travels through centuries of German, French, and Italian organ music, played on the church’s pipe organ. More info here.

Feria Nacional de Tijuana 2026 – August 28–September 27, Tijuana, Baja California
A full month of festivities takes over Parque Morelos, anchored by 17 concerts at the Palenque. Grupo Firme, Los Tucanes de Tijuana and Banda MS are among the announced performers. Beyond the music, the fair brings regional food, carnival rides and artisan exhibitions. General admission is 50 pesos. More info here.

Mass “Thriller” Dance – August 29, Monumento a la Revolución, Mexico City
Hundreds are expected to gather for a mass performance of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” choreography. The free event starts at 1 p.m. No dance experience is needed, and zombie costumes are encouraged. More info here.

Shorts México 2026 – September 1–30, Mexico City
Shorts México returns for its 21st edition with an entire month devoted to short-form cinema. The program includes Mexican, Ibero-American and international competitions spanning fiction, animation and documentary. More info here.

Galas de Mariachi “Época Dorada” – September 3, Teatro Degollado, Guadalajara
Part of the International Mariachi and Charrería Festival, this special night looks back to Mexico’s Golden Age of music and cinema. Mariachi Los Camperos and Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlán perform with the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra. The two-hour concert takes place inside Guadalajara’s historic Teatro Degollado. More info here.

Hay Festival Querétaro 2026 – September 4–6, Querétaro
More than 100 writers, thinkers and artists descend on Querétaro for three days of ideas and debate. Booker Prize winner Kiran Desai is among this year’s guests. Conversations tackle literature and artificial intelligence, as well as major issues facing society today. General-program tickets cost just 10 pesos. More info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

¿Me lo puede guardar?
 Translation: Can you hold onto this for me?

Handy when you need a hotel to hold your luggage after checkout, a shop to hang onto a purchase while you keep browsing, or a neighbor to keep a package for you until you get home.

Guardar does more than just "hold." Depending on the situation, it can also mean to keep, put away, store, or save something for later.

Here are a few ways to use it:

¿Me lo puede guardar hasta mañana? – Can you hold it for me until tomorrow?

¿Puede guardar esto en el refrigerador? – Can you put this in the refrigerator?

No olvide guardar el recibo. – Don’t forget to keep the receipt.

Ready to take your Spanish further? Find a teacher in our Spanish Teacher Insider Guide. 

🎯 Trivia Answer

A: Día del Bombero.

On August 22, 1873, a volunteer fire company was formally organized in Veracruz. It was long considered Mexico’s first official fire corps. In 1956, its anniversary became Día del Bombero.

But Mexico’s firefighting history goes back further.

Mexico City’s fire department traces its origins to January 25, 1856, when President Ignacio Comonfort ordered the creation of a Cuerpo de Zapadores Bomberos – 17 years before Veracruz.

Then there’s Guadalajara. Municipal records from 1864 show an attempt to organize a fire company there, although political turmoil prevented it from developing continuously.

Whichever city came first, August 22 remains a day to honor Mexico’s bomberos and the vital work they do.

👋 Before You Go

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