Welcome to the Expat Blog
Take a look around, find a good read, stay as long as you'd like.
Articles
Wednesday, April 6th 2022
Making Sense of Spanish Diminutive Names
In short, a Spanish diminutive name is a nickname that you use in place of a typical Spanish given name. We do this in English all the time without realizing it. Bob for Robert, Jack for Jonathan, Suzie for Susanne. . . etc. A classic Spanish example would be Mari for María. Using a diminutive name is a way of denoting affection—and it never hurts to let people know that you’re working to become a part of their culture.
Friday, March 18th 2022
Guide to La Huasteca Potosina
La Huasteca Potosina Natural Reserve and Water Park is where you want to go to get that adrenaline fix while taking in one of the most idyllic natural wonders in all of Mexico. Let’s just say, if you’re into photography, then you’ll surely find that one incredible Instagram-worthy spot that will make your portfolio.
Monday, March 14th 2022
What is Huapango?
Huapango is a Mexican musical genre that has different specific styles throughout Mexico. The most common forms of huapango are the *arribeño, norteño, huasteco,* and the *huapango de mariachi*. We’ll cover these in more detail later in the article.
Monday, March 7th 2022
What Is An Ejido?
Ejidos were a way of fixing this injustice. From the Latin word “exitum”, ejidos are a communal land that workers can farm. They don’t *own* the land, they retain sole right to the fruits of that land. In this article, we’ll explain what an ejido is, tell you the history of an ejido, and how it can affect you today.
Monday, February 28th 2022
Wait—Caesar Salad is Mexican Food?
We’ve all tried a Caesar salad, but did you know that it was invented in Mexico? That’s right. Caesar Salad is Mexican food. The Caesar salad is generally attributed to Caesar Cardini, a restaurateur in Tijuana.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2022
What Are Escamoles?
A Mexican delicacy, escamoles have a long tradition of consumption in Mexico. Some expats may not find the idea of eating escamoles palatable, but a few adventurous eaters might discover they really love this dish. Escamoles are known by many names, though “Mexican caviar”, “insect caviar” are the most common. I’ve even heard them called “land caviar”. They are most often served in tacos.
Wednesday, February 16th 2022
La Paz, Baja California Sur Guide – Part II
To better understand the region of Baja California better, and in particular La Paz, we thought a basic overview of the history of the area would be helpful. (If you’re interested in the restaurant and bar guide to La Paz, scroll down to the next section).
Tuesday, February 8th 2022
Guide to La Paz, Baja California Sur
Located at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, on the eastern shore with the Sea of Cortez (which is also known as the Gulf of California), La Paz feels more like a small town than a city of 250,000 residents. La Paz offers a different southern Baja experience for those expats and nomads who want something less hectic and touristic than nearby Los Cabos.
Saturday, January 29th 2022
What is Dia de la Candelaria?
The Christian holiday of Candlemas takes place on February 2nd. It is celebrated widely in Mexico combining some ancient Aztec holiday traditions with Christian traditions brought by Europeans much later. Historical records attest to Candlemas celebrations taking place more than 16 centuries ago. Called Día de la Candelaria in Spanish, we invite you to celebrate the end of the holiday season with tamales, atole, and more!
Thursday, January 27th 2022
What Are Toques in Bars?
If you’ve been in bars in Mexico City, you may have seen people walking around, clinking two metal handles together. That’s a toques machine (*toques* meaning “touches” in Spanish), and this curious device has become a staple drinking game among younger Mexicans.
Thursday, January 27th 2022
Cheek Kiss: Kissing on Cheeks to Say Hello
Are you an expat or traveler from a country that doesn't cheek kiss as a greeting? Do you want to avoid awkward scenarios when kissing on cheeks to say hello? This article will offer helpful tips on what to do, and what to avoid when you are kissing cheeks around the world. Click here to learn more!
Wednesday, January 12th 2022
The Hunt for the Mexican Hangover Cure
It’s no surprise that in a country with spirits flowing from every pore, Mexicans have a handle on the dreaded hangover that comes the next day. I reached out to my friends and family from all over Mexico—both expats and nationals—in my hunt for the perfect Mexican hangover cure. The answers I received varied widely. However, I was able to group them into a series of categories that I would offer as suggestions for how to cure your hangover in Mexico. So now you can get on with your day!
Feeling Overwhelmed?
Let our experts guide you through your insurance options with a free, no-obligation consultation.
