How To Integrate!
By Patricia Ann Talley, Editor
People always ask me why I came to Mexico. I came to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico, from Chicago, where I ran a promotional marketing agency, to conduct one year of research for a doctorate in sustainable economic development. That was 27 years ago.
Over the years, I operated a boutique hotel, owned and operated three restaurants, developed a vocational English training service, purchased properties, and published this magazine. I joke with my academic colleagues and students that I am a slow learner.
Today, there is a new segment of diverse and progressive travelers from the USA, Canada, and other parts of the world who are moving abroad. Millennials often work online and are more mobile. Seniors with retirement income can enjoy a higher standard of living at a lower cost.
So, here are some tips that I have learned over the years. . .
Integrate!
Understandably, foreigners who do not know the language or customs usually seek out Expat groups for comfort and information. But, unfortunately, many foreigners live in gated communities and only interact with their Mexican maids or gardeners. I call this, “The Patrona Syndrome.” If you are going to move to MEXICO, then immerse yourself in MEXICO! Get out and integrate! Mix with the people. I have been to events where the Expats sit on one side and Mexicans on the other. I always sit with the Mexicans.
Spanish!
There is an old local saying, “If you speak three languages, you are tri-lingual. If you speak two languages, you are bi-lingual. If you speak one language, you are American.”
Last year, I met an American couple that was new to the area who told me that they had no intention of learning Spanish. “My US Dollar will talk for me,” the man said. So, when we went out to dinner and everyone turned to me for help with their orders, I told them to ask their US Dollar! I work hard for my Pesos! I got just what I ordered, but there was a lot of confusion on the other side of the table. The quicker you immerse and learn the language, the faster you can integrate!
I still have my coffee-soaked chart of Spanish verbs on my office wall.
Buy Local!
Why buy at Sam’s Club to support the Walton Family when so many local families could benefit from your expenditures? One of the joys of living in Mexico is having access to fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and poultry. When I came, we did not have any supermarkets; we always shopped at the local marketplace. Now, I buy from the kids of the vendors whom I’ve known for years.
Cook!
My first friend in Mexico was a little 4-year-old girl whose mother was teaching her how to swim in our condo’s pool. I fried some chicken one day and gave her a drumstick. She loved it and asked me to make it for her 5th birthday party. Well, that led to requests from all the mothers at the party for catering, and that led to me opening three restaurants in the area.
You do not have to open a business – just cook and invite your neighbors. I still cook big meals on Sundays, like my grandma did, and my neighbors still “sniff” around. We love to share.
Teach!
Cooking, teaching, and volunteer work have helped me to integrate into my local Mexican community. English is a required subject in our schools, and there is always a shortage of teachers, especially native speakers.
A work visa is required for employment or opening a business. But, you can always volunteer at a local school or university. Do your homework! The kids are BAD-ASS! When they ask a question that you do not know, say, “That is an excellent question. I will research it and get back to you.”
Volunteer!
Pick an international or local charity and volunteer! For me, I chose May Peace Prevail on Earth International that has activities and programs for communities and youth – Peace Poles, Children’s Art Contest, and the Essay Contest for Youth. What a joy!
Commit to a Cause!
Most do not know that in colonial days, Africans outnumbered Europeans in Mexico by three to one. But, like in the USA, this history is seldom taught. Until my last breath, I will work for political, social, and economic justice. For me, as an African descendant in Mexico, and now a dual citizen, I stand proudly with Mexico Negro, A.C., which is like the NAACP of Mexico. I help with international relations. Afro-Mexicans were counted for the first time in the 2020 census.
Join a Church!
Rather than going to an English-language church, I bought a bi-lingual Bible and went to a local Spanish-language one. There are two classifications of religion in Mexico: “Catholica” (Catholic) or “Cristiano” (Protestant). A person’s race is not on any document in Mexico, but a person’s religion is frequently indicated. The church is also a great place for activities for children.
Join a Club!
Club Rotario (Rotary Club): Rotary Club is an international charity organization with local chapters in most communities. They meet weekly. Joining Rotary Club is a great way to meet the local business community and to learn about the various charitable projects in your area.
The photo featured at the top of this article was taken at an annual fundraising dinner for Club Rotary. I bought a ticket and went alone. After greeting the people, I sat at a table alone. Well. . . in walked the banner guard from the local Navy Station – SEVEN young, handsome Naval officers! I invited them to sit at my table and had the waiter remove the extra chairs so no other woman could join us! I spent the WHOLE evening learning about their lives and careers. It was an evening I will never forget. They said the same. HA!
Scouts: Yes, Mexico has Scouts! It is an international organization. In Mexico, boys and girls in all age groups participate TOGETHER in their local Scout Troop. There are no Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts – just SCOUTS. Their motto: “Siempre listos” – We are always ready!
Resources
Over the years, I have compiled articles about various subjects relating to moving abroad in our Expat Section. New articles are added every month. Sign up for our newsletter, at the top of every page, to receive an announcement. Enjoy the read!
I did mention that I have my DUAL CITIZENSHIP now! Soy Mexicana!
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