Starting Life Abroad in Mexico
Long time, no hear! It’s been a while, hasn’t it? Nearly three years ago, on December 29, 2022, I packed up my life in the United States and set out on a bold new adventure. To start, I chose Mexico City (CDMX) as the first stop on my journey abroad. This vibrant city is full of culture, marvelous food, and treasured memories. That first month taught me so much about traveling solo, adapting to a new country, and embracing life abroad, lessons that would guide me through the next chapter of my journey in Southeast Asia.
Table of Contents
Early Travel Mistakes in Mexico City
Arriving with a 50-pound Monos Medium suitcase turned out to be a huge mistake. Half of what was packed never even got used, and just unzipping that overstuffed bag triggered my packing OCD. At times, there were tears, realizing there was no way to navigate Mexico with such a bulky suitcase. On top of that, extra baggage fees made the situation even more stressful. And the irony? I absolutely love my Monos, but I misjudged and packed it all wrong. To top it off, I packed my portable luggage scale, yes, the scale which only added more weight. It was pure chaos.
Key Takeaway / Pro Tip: Start with half of what you think you’ll need then remove a few more items. Your back (and your budget) will thank you later.
As if that weren’t enough, T-Mobile failed me completely, leaving me stranded at night without internet access. Navigating unfamiliar streets with no signal was a stressful, eye-opening introduction to life abroad.
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Settling In: My First Month Living in Mexico City
My lovely apartment in Roma Norte became home during my first month. It helped me settle in and feel grounded while exploring everything the city had to offer. Located in the heart of Mexico City, it was surrounded by lush parks, cozy cafés, vibrant restaurants, a nearby metro station, grocery stores, and endless street tacos. With everything just a few blocks away, living in Roma Norte truly felt like discovering a hidden Mexico City gem. My unit had a cozy sunroom, and the building offered a beautiful rooftop terrace that quickly became my favorite spot to unwind.
Mexico City isn’t a cheap place to live. For my lifestyle, I found it comparable to living in Washington, D.C. To live comfortably here, you’ll need solid savings and a steady income. At the time, an apartment in this popular area would easily cost between $1,200 and $1,500 per month. Contrary to some people’s beliefs, CDMX is a very cosmopolitan city.
Living High: Mexico City’s Elevation
At 7,400 feet above sea level, Mexico City’s high elevation was quite the change from DC’s modest 409 feet. During the first 24 hours, pounding headaches and the unmistakable effects of altitude sickness made the adjustment challenging. Combined with the city’s air quality, it wasn’t easy.
Nevertheless, that rooftop view made it all worth it. The sweeping skyline melted away the discomfort and reminded me why this Mexico City living experience mattered. For anyone visiting, stay hydrated, drink plenty of water, and consider ibuprofen or Dramamine for altitude symptoms. I also took Elderberry supplements as a small immune boost while exploring this dynamic city.
My Stay at an Artsy Boutique Hostel
I had always wanted to try staying at a hostel but was skeptical. After two weeks in my Roma Norte apartment, a trusted friend recommended a brand-new hostel with private rooms, and I decided to try it. It turned out to be fantastic!
My first hostel experience was lovely. I stayed in an artsy private room at Hostal Juárez , tucked in Colonia Juárez, one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city. This experience offered a fun and refreshing perspective on Mexico City life, showing that you can enjoy the community vibe of hostel travel without sacrificing comfort or personal space. If you’re curious about staying here, I booked my room through Agoda, it makes finding the perfect spot so easy.
Watch my hostel tour here!
Food, Flavor, and Fun in Mexico City
Trying local delicacies was an essential part of starting my journey abroad. From the very first day, I sampled chapulines, roasted grasshoppers, thanks to a lovely couple who bought them for me. Crunchy, salty, and slightly spicy, they surprisingly reminded me of Lay’s potato chips.
Of course, no food adventure is complete without birria tacos. Hands down, these were the best I’ve ever had. Between street stalls and trendy eateries, Mexico City’s food culture is an explosion of flavor and creativity. If you’re visiting, don’t miss Mercado Roma, a stylish food market offering everything from tacos and mezcal to vegan bites and craft desserts. It’s the perfect place to sample a bit of everything while soaking in the city’s laid-back vibe.
Watch Eating Chapulines (Crickets) in Mexico City & How to Eat Birria Tacos!
A Feast to Start the Year
To kick off the year, I enjoyed a feast at La Docena Oyster Bar. The food was fresh, expertly seasoned, and bursting with flavor. If you’re planning where to eat, this restaurant should definitely be on your list. Between the lively atmosphere and attentive service, it’s a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.
Eating Like a Local Mexico
Mexico City is overflowing with unique restaurants and unforgettable dishes. To make the most of your visit, make a list before you go to ensure you don’t miss out on the city’s top culinary gems. One highlight of my trip was Eat Like a Local Mexico Food Tour, perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike. Guided by passionate local women, the tour takes you through bustling markets, hidden street stalls, and family-owned eateries for an authentic taste of Mexico City’s food scene.
Beyond the food, the tour supports women and small businesses, partnering with local vendors and reinvesting in community initiatives. Overall, it’s a meaningful, authentic, and socially responsible way to explore the vibrant food culture.
Breakfast All Day: Pancakes Anytime
Craving comfort food, I stumbled upon Breakfast All Day, a cozy spot serving pancakes that were light, fluffy, and freshly made. Although I love trying traditional Mexican cuisine, it’s nice to enjoy something familiar once in a while. This restaurant is ideal for travelers looking for a hearty, comforting breakfast or brunch at any hour.
Book Lovers’ Paradise
Calling all book lovers! I discovered Cafebrería El Péndulo, a dreamy mix of bookstore, café, and bar. With locations in Zona Rosa, Condesa, Polanco, and Roma Norte, each space is filled with books, vinyl records, lush plants, and cozy, artistic charm.
During my visit, I met up with two lovely expats, and we spent the day laughing, sipping margaritas, and soaking up the local vibe. Whether you’re co-working, catching up with friends, or enjoying a solo date, this café is perfect for relaxing. Grab a seat on the patio, sip your drink, and enjoy the city breeze.
Watch Cafebrería El Péndulo Tour!
Surviving Montezuma’s Revenge
Unfortunately, my food adventures eventually caught up with me after doing my own self-guided street food tour. I came face-to-face with the infamous Montezuma’s revenge and spent seven days feeling like I was fighting for my life. I know that mini Wal-Mart is still cursing me after I blew up their bathroom. During that time, food was the last thing on my mind. I just had to let it pass and focus on recovery. Still, as any traveler knows, the party must go on.
Word of advice: Stay away from random street tacos unless you have solid recommendations. Even then, be cautious. While they were absolutely delicious, I quickly learned that I don’t have a local stomach. I came prepared with activated charcoal pills and Imodium, but the bacteria was far too strong for either to help.
A Sunday Stroll in Condesa
Once of the best things to do in Mexico City is to start your Sunday at Parque México in Condesa. Here, the city comes alive with lush greenery, sun-dappled paths, and a perfect mix of urban energy and calm. For anyone who loves parks and gardens, this is a must-visit destination.
As I wandered through the park, I saw dogs playing in lively dog parks, artisans displaying their crafts, and cozy cafés inviting me to sit and people-watch. I even stumbled upon salsa dancers moving to live music, framed by beautiful historic architecture. All in all, it’s a place to slow down, connect with locals, and feel the real heartbeat of the city.
Art, Culture, and City Views
Beyond the parks, Mexico City’s museums offer endless inspiration for art and culture lovers.
Mexico City’s museums offer endless inspiration for art and culture lovers. One favorite was the Soumaya Museum, a striking architectural landmark filled with art from European masters to contemporary Mexican works. The building itself is worth visiting, but the art inside makes it extraordinary.
For panoramic city views, head to Torre Latinoamericana, the city’s open-air observatory. Even if you’re short on time, the cafeteria offers the same breathtaking skyline. After a day of exploring, this was the perfect spot to unwind, reflect, and watch the sunset over one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
Watch for Torre Latinoamericana Tip!
Safe Travel Tips: Women-Only Sections on Mexico City Transit
As you explore Mexico City’s metro and bus system, you’ll notice women-and children-only sections. These areas, marked by pink signage and seats, protect riders from groping and harassment. During one ride, I witnessed a man leering at a woman for the entire trip, reinforcing how important these dedicated spaces are. I truly applaud Mexico City for taking proactive measures to make women feel safe while commuting.
Watch my Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers video to get practical advice and helpful insights.
Coyoacán: Culture, Music, and Local Life
Looking for fun and cultural experiences, Coyoacán is a must-visit historic district. On festive Sunday nights, locals gather in the main square to dance, often with elders teaching younger generations. While most visitors come for the Frida Kahlo Museum, Coyoacán offers so much more. Stroll along cobblestone streets lined with artisan markets, galleries, and vibrant murals, or stop by the bustling Coyoacán Market for street food. From the Centro Coyoacán Mall, you can wander colorful streets that feel like a movie set, full of life, culture, and creativity.
You can easily book a Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Museum day tour through GetYourGuide.
Watch Coyoacán Dance the Night Away!
Photo Shoot in Mexico City
Mexico City marks the first chapter of my journey abroad, and I wanted to celebrate this milestone with a photo shoot. Booking in Centro Histórico, the lively downtown district, perfectly captured the city’s historic charm and energy. Working with Jose Carlos and Carlos, twin brothers, was fun and effortless. They’re consummate professionals, and the results reflected the joy and excitement I felt as I began this new chapter. You can reach them on Instagram @fotografia_beauty_art.
Beach Life in Playa del Carmen
After three weeks in Mexico City, I headed to Playa del Carmen to soak up the sun and enjoy some beach time. I ended up seeing a doctor for sun poisoning, and a big shout-out goes to Playa del Carmen Farmacia Similares, which has a doctor on-site. It was a relief to find a pharmacy just two blocks from my hotel, complete with a well-equipped office including a desk, sink, and examining table. The doctor asked all the important questions in English, which immediately put me at ease, and then recommended a treatment plan.
Cost of Services:
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Consultation: 60 MXN (~$3.15 USD)
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Prescriptions: 348 MXN (~$18.51 USD)
Considering U.S. healthcare prices, this was extremely affordable. Even with travel and health insurance, it’s comforting to know low-cost, quality healthcare options are available while traveling in Mexico. Always get travel insurance. I use SafetyWing which combines travel and health coverage for peace of mind wherever I go.
Despite that setback, I loved being a beach babe, spending long days at beach clubs and feeling the happiest and freest I had ever been.
Reflections on My First Month Abroad
That first month was a whirlwind of discovery, mishaps, and unforgettable experiences. Mexico City became more than a destination; it was a teacher, showing me the beauty of spontaneity, the joy in small moments, and the thrill of stepping into the unknown. It truly laid the foundation for starting my journey abroad. Being close to the U.S. allowed me to pivot, fly to St. Louis to repack, and pick up my Travel WiFi before heading to Southeast Asia.
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Until next time, peace!
2 comments
Why did move to Mexico, come to Dallas,and let’s move to KL, Malaysia, let’s talk.
Mexico was the first stop on my nomadic journey. I wanted to visit, and it was an easy first destination to travel to from the USA. Dallas is too far LOL! KL is just right :). Thank you for reading the blog!