Tuesday, July 22, 2025

I’ve seen Latin America, but Mexico’s still my favorite country for retirement

From Cuenca's chilly weather to Medellín's sprawl, here's why, for this U.S. expat, other popular Latin American retirement destinations don't measure up to Mexico.

A short history of immigration in Roma and Condesa

1
Immigration in Roma Norte hasn't always been contentious — but it has always happened.
An aerial view of the Angel of Independence monument on Reforma Avenue in Mexico City, looking down the tree-lined boulevard surrounded by tall city buildings.

Before you move in: An architect’s guide to finding the right Mexico City location for you

1
Architect Benjamin Bross spoke to Mexico News Daily about life in the capital — and where he'd tell someone to buy property.
A map of the Maya Train at a press conference

Maya Train freight service set to begin operations by end of 2026

0
Construction on the freight network began in April and is currently at 5% completion, the general in charge of the project said.

A short history of immigration in Roma and Condesa

1
Immigration in Roma Norte hasn't always been contentious — but it has always happened.
An aerial view of the Angel of Independence monument on Reforma Avenue in Mexico City, looking down the tree-lined boulevard surrounded by tall city buildings.

Before you move in: An architect’s guide to finding the right Mexico City location...

1
Architect Benjamin Bross spoke to Mexico News Daily about life in the capital — and where he'd tell someone to buy property.
A map of the Maya Train at a press conference

Maya Train freight service set to begin operations by end of 2026

0
Construction on the freight network began in April and is currently at 5% completion, the general in charge of the project said.
BETA Version - Powered by Perplexity
Dancers in traditional garb including long colorful skirts dance on a stage a Guelaguetza in Oaxaca

Guelaguetza kicks off in Oaxaca with performances and the festival’s first ‘Monday on the...

0
The 92nd edition of the festival is now underway, celebrating Indigenous traditions from around the state.
Anti-gentrification ptoresters in Tlalpan

As anti-gentrification sentiment grows, a second Mexico City march targets World Cup speculation

5
Violence including book burning marred the otherwise peaceful protest. As in the first march, the vandals appeared to be interlopers.
A poster reading El Lazo de Petra with a Mexican charra horseback rider twirling a lasso

Director Gigi Saul Guerrero’s new short film mixes Western, horror and charrería

1
The 10-minute thriller, shot entirely on iPhone, tells the story of a woman's quest to save her town from monsters.
Chassis and machinery inside a car factory

In Nuevo León, companies are skipping investment announcements to avoid US scrutiny

0
Though investment remains strong, businesses are taking a cautious approach to public announcements, state officials say.
A section of forest clear-cut

Mennonite groups facing criminal charges for illegal forest clearing in Yucatán Peninsula 

7
Authorities discovered some 2,600 hectares of destroyed forest during an operation in May and June.
An expansive panoramic view of Guanajuato City, Mexico, showcasing its vibrant, colorful houses covering rolling hills, with prominent landmarks like the yellow Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato and other historic buildings, under a partly cloudy sky.

I’ve seen Latin America, but Mexico’s still my favorite country for retirement

3
From Cuenca's chilly weather to Medellín's sprawl, here's why, for this U.S. expat, other popular Latin American retirement destinations don't measure up to Mexico.
Bacalar lagoon

Is Bacalar a foodie destination now?

2
Bacalar's restaurant scene got a culinary upgrade in recent years, now featuring Michelin key-chefs and unforgettable lakeside dining.
A group of LGBTQ rights suppoerts in the streets of Puerto Vallarta

How Puerto Vallarta became Mexico’s queer capital

9
The Bay of Banderas is home to Mexico's most vibrant LGBTQ scene, with parties and celebrations like no other.

When Acapulco was the center of the world

7
At the height of New Spain, Acapulco became the first true global trade hub, thanks to a little help from some old Chinese ships the Phillipines and natural geography.
Nellie Huang walking on a cliffside path in the Riviera Maya

Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 Guide: Luxury travelers

5
From coast to coast, and even places inbetween, there is no shortage of luxury options for travelers in Mexico.
Flor de calabaza

Taste of Mexico: Flor de calabaza

0
Part staple food, part everyday talisman, flor de calabaza has nourished Mexican society for centures in more ways than just one.

The “golden cage” of San Miguel de Allende: A local perspective on gentrification in...

31
It may be the best city in the world, but gentrification in San Miguel is pushing locals out, explains a born-and-bred San Miguelense.
Dancers in traditional garb including long colorful skirts dance on a stage a Guelaguetza in Oaxaca

Guelaguetza kicks off in Oaxaca with performances and the festival’s first ‘Monday on the Hill’

0
The 92nd edition of the festival is now underway, celebrating Indigenous traditions from around the state.
Anti-gentrification ptoresters in Tlalpan

As anti-gentrification sentiment grows, a second Mexico City march targets World Cup speculation

5
Violence including book burning marred the otherwise peaceful protest. As in the first march, the vandals appeared to be interlopers.
A poster reading El Lazo de Petra with a Mexican charra horseback rider twirling a lasso

Director Gigi Saul Guerrero’s new short film mixes Western, horror and charrería

1
The 10-minute thriller, shot entirely on iPhone, tells the story of a woman's quest to save her town from monsters.
Chassis and machinery inside a car factory

In Nuevo León, companies are skipping investment announcements to avoid US scrutiny

0
Though investment remains strong, businesses are taking a cautious approach to public announcements, state officials say.
A section of forest clear-cut

Mennonite groups facing criminal charges for illegal forest clearing in Yucatán Peninsula 

7
Authorities discovered some 2,600 hectares of destroyed forest during an operation in May and June.
An expansive panoramic view of Guanajuato City, Mexico, showcasing its vibrant, colorful houses covering rolling hills, with prominent landmarks like the yellow Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato and other historic buildings, under a partly cloudy sky.

I’ve seen Latin America, but Mexico’s still my favorite country for retirement

3
From Cuenca's chilly weather to Medellín's sprawl, here's why, for this U.S. expat, other popular Latin American retirement destinations don't measure up to Mexico.
A blonde woman walks past graffiti reading "Fuera gringo" in Mexico City

With Mexicans feeling let down by the United States, what can YOU do about...

65
As Mexicans perception of the US becomes increasingly negative, Mexico News Daily CEO Travis Bembenek shares ideas about what can be done.
A man in sunglasses in front of a building entrance sign reading Casa Hogar La Esperanza de Loreto

Kids, tires and turtles: Our CEO’s whirlwind tour of Loreto in Baja California Sur

10
Once a Baja skeptic, Mexico News Daily CEO Travis Bembenek found inspiration in the peninsula's natural beauty and great people on a recent trip.
Piles of old newspapers

Is long-form journalism dead? A perspective from our CEO

11
As attention spans shrink, a good deep-dive story still has the power to captivate, CEO Travis Bembenek writes.
Travis and Tamanna Bembenek raise styrofoam cups to toast with Luis, an elderly Mexican man, on a plane

Lessons on life from seat 2C: A perspective from our CEO

22
Travis Bembenek shares what he learned from a brief encounter that left a lasting impact.
Chassis and machinery inside a car factory

In Nuevo León, companies are skipping investment announcements to avoid US scrutiny

0
Though investment remains strong, businesses are taking a cautious approach to public announcements, state officials say.
Ensenada

Ensenada looks to attract big tech with US $300M in public works investment 

3
The Baja California port and tourist city is focusing on attracting capital in three priority sectors: electronics, biotechnology and green energy.
China-Mexico trade

Mexico’s trade deficit with China reached nearly US $120B in 2024

3
Mexico has doubled its trade deficit with China over the past 10 years, with exports of only US $10 billion in 2024, compared to a whopping $129.8 billion in imports.
MXN - Mexican Peso
USD
18.61
CAD
13.67
EUR
21.87
Chassis and machinery inside a car factory

In Nuevo León, companies are skipping investment announcements to avoid US scrutiny

0
Though investment remains strong, businesses are taking a cautious approach to public announcements, state officials say.
barbed wire in front of shipping containers

Trump’s tariff threat could hamper Mexico’s growth into 2027, J.P. Morgan warns 

7
The U.S. president's aggressive trade posture could convert the supposedly routine review of the USMCA into a drawn-out struggle that would stall Mexico's recovery.
MXN - Mexican Peso
USD
18.61
CAD
13.67
EUR
21.87
Two photos, one of Mexico president claudia sheinbaum and the other of Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney

As Trump threatens tariffs, Sheinbaum and Canada PM Mark Carney strategize to strengthen collaboration

8
Sheinbaum said Carney has accepted an invitation to visit Mexico, though the date is not yet set.
Sheinbaum and Jeffrey Lichtman

Sheinbaum files defamation lawsuit after lawyer for ‘Los Chapitos’ calls the president a cartel...

8
Jeffrey Lichtman’s controversial comments came after his client, Ovidio Guzmán, pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and organized crime charges in U.S. federal court. 
An expansive panoramic view of Guanajuato City, Mexico, showcasing its vibrant, colorful houses covering rolling hills, with prominent landmarks like the yellow Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato and other historic buildings, under a partly cloudy sky.

I’ve seen Latin America, but Mexico’s still my favorite country for retirement

3
From Cuenca's chilly weather to Medellín's sprawl, here's why, for this U.S. expat, other popular Latin American retirement destinations don't measure up to Mexico.

Meet the nonprofit preparing Mexico for climate change

2
The nonprofit is helping communities prepare for disease, agricultural disruption and to strengthen education and awareness across the country.
Oaxaca mayor Raymundo Chagoya speaking at a podium with "Transformando Juntos la Capital" banner behind him as people sit in antique-style carved wooden chairs watching.

Oaxaca Mayor Raymundo Chagoya is saving his city’s water with people power

3
Raymundo Chagoya's plan to revitalize Oaxaca uses neighborhood groups to excite residents about creating a cleaner, environmentally healthier city together.

Unhappy with its flights getting pushed to AIFA, US announces restrictions on Mexican airlines

20
The so-called "America First" actions could end a longstanding partnership between Delta Air Lines and Aeroméxico, Mexico’s flagship carrier.
Bacalar lagoon

Is Bacalar a foodie destination now?

2
Bacalar's restaurant scene got a culinary upgrade in recent years, now featuring Michelin key-chefs and unforgettable lakeside dining.
Nellie Huang walking on a cliffside path in the Riviera Maya

Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 Guide: Luxury travelers

5
From coast to coast, and even places inbetween, there is no shortage of luxury options for travelers in Mexico.

Meet the nonprofit preparing Mexico for climate change

2
The nonprofit is helping communities prepare for disease, agricultural disruption and to strengthen education and awareness across the country.
Oaxaca mayor Raymundo Chagoya speaking at a podium with "Transformando Juntos la Capital" banner behind him as people sit in antique-style carved wooden chairs watching.

Oaxaca Mayor Raymundo Chagoya is saving his city’s water with people power

3
Raymundo Chagoya's plan to revitalize Oaxaca uses neighborhood groups to excite residents about creating a cleaner, environmentally healthier city together.
A man in sunglasses in front of a building entrance sign reading Casa Hogar La Esperanza de Loreto

Kids, tires and turtles: Our CEO’s whirlwind tour of Loreto in Baja California Sur

10
Once a Baja skeptic, Mexico News Daily CEO Travis Bembenek found inspiration in the peninsula's natural beauty and great people on a recent trip.
Piles of old newspapers

Is long-form journalism dead? A perspective from our CEO

11
As attention spans shrink, a good deep-dive story still has the power to captivate, CEO Travis Bembenek writes.
A collection of unique, handcrafted Mexican ceramic art pieces in shades of green and yellow, including tall stacked sculptures, vases, bowls, and whimsical figures, arranged on a textured grey surface.

How a Mexico City studio is championing truly fair artisan partnerships

0
Artist Melissa Ávila's interior decor studio's support of Mexican artisans goes far beyond simply collecting and reselling their handicrafts.
A bright, full exterior shot showcases a large, modern luxury home with a rectangular infinity pool in the foreground. The house features a striking contemporary design with white and earth-toned facades, expansive dark-framed windows and sliding glass doors, and multiple levels. A grassy lawn surrounds the pool, and in the distance, other residential buildings and clear skies with scattered clouds are visible.

Want to buy property in Mexico? Check this guide to Mexico’s real estate expos...

0
Prepare yourself for navigating Mexico's thriving property market with our comprehensive guide to the country's top real estate trade fairs.
Dancers in traditional garb including long colorful skirts dance on a stage a Guelaguetza in Oaxaca

Guelaguetza kicks off in Oaxaca with performances and the festival’s first ‘Monday on the...

0
The 92nd edition of the festival is now underway, celebrating Indigenous traditions from around the state.
A poster reading El Lazo de Petra with a Mexican charra horseback rider twirling a lasso

Director Gigi Saul Guerrero’s new short film mixes Western, horror and charrería

1
The 10-minute thriller, shot entirely on iPhone, tells the story of a woman's quest to save her town from monsters.
poster of woman and soccer players

Eva Longoria’s docuseries on Club Necaxa is set to premiere in early August

0
The famed Hollywood actress and director of Mexican descent considers the 10-episode series to be as much about Mexican culture and tradition as about sports.
A photo of Angelina Jolie in an airport and another blurry image of Salma Hayek leaving the airport.

Here’s what we know about Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek’s meeting with the governor...

4
Upon arrival in Hayek's home state, the pair were greeted by the state culture minister.
Bacalar lagoon

Is Bacalar a foodie destination now?

2
Bacalar's restaurant scene got a culinary upgrade in recent years, now featuring Michelin key-chefs and unforgettable lakeside dining.
Nellie Huang walking on a cliffside path in the Riviera Maya

Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 Guide: Luxury travelers

5
From coast to coast, and even places inbetween, there is no shortage of luxury options for travelers in Mexico.
Flor de calabaza

Taste of Mexico: Flor de calabaza

0
Part staple food, part everyday talisman, flor de calabaza has nourished Mexican society for centures in more ways than just one.
Pitahaya Dragon Fruit

Taste of Mexico: Pitahaya

4
A fruit that tastes incredible and helps your health? Surely it's not true.
Oaxaca mayor Raymundo Chagoya speaking at a podium with "Transformando Juntos la Capital" banner behind him as people sit in antique-style carved wooden chairs watching.

Oaxaca Mayor Raymundo Chagoya is saving his city’s water with people power

3
Raymundo Chagoya's plan to revitalize Oaxaca uses neighborhood groups to excite residents about creating a cleaner, environmentally healthier city together.
people walk through mexico city with umbrellas, with the latin america tower in the backgound

An unusually rainy June brings drought relief and flooding to Mexico

8
Midway into the rainy season, Mexico's reservoirs are 45% full on average — a big improvement over last month, but still less than historical norms.
A woman with outstretched arms

Spiritual tourism in Mexico: Are the rituals really ancient?

8
Are Mexico's litany of "ceremonial experiences" actually real, or are they a creative way to part tourists from their hard-earned money?

All you need to know about Eastern medicine in Mexico

3
Traditional Chinese medicine in Mexico is bigger than ever, with licensed practitioners all over the country offering a variety of techniques.

A short history of immigration in Roma and Condesa

1
Immigration in Roma Norte hasn't always been contentious — but it has always happened.
Dancers in traditional garb including long colorful skirts dance on a stage a Guelaguetza in Oaxaca

Guelaguetza kicks off in Oaxaca with performances and the festival’s first ‘Monday on the Hill’

0
The 92nd edition of the festival is now underway, celebrating Indigenous traditions from around the state.
A poster reading El Lazo de Petra with a Mexican charra horseback rider twirling a lasso

Director Gigi Saul Guerrero’s new short film mixes Western, horror and charrería

1
The 10-minute thriller, shot entirely on iPhone, tells the story of a woman's quest to save her town from monsters.
A group of LGBTQ rights suppoerts in the streets of Puerto Vallarta

How Puerto Vallarta became Mexico’s queer capital

9
The Bay of Banderas is home to Mexico's most vibrant LGBTQ scene, with parties and celebrations like no other.
poster of woman and soccer players

Eva Longoria’s docuseries on Club Necaxa is set to premiere in early August

0
The famed Hollywood actress and director of Mexican descent considers the 10-episode series to be as much about Mexican culture and tradition as about sports.
A photo of Angelina Jolie in an airport and another blurry image of Salma Hayek leaving the airport.

Here’s what we know about Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek’s meeting with the governor of Veracruz

4
Upon arrival in Hayek's home state, the pair were greeted by the state culture minister.
Anti-gentrification ptoresters in Tlalpan

As anti-gentrification sentiment grows, a second Mexico City march targets World Cup speculation

5
Violence including book burning marred the otherwise peaceful protest. As in the first march, the vandals appeared to be interlopers.
A section of forest clear-cut

Mennonite groups facing criminal charges for illegal forest clearing in Yucatán Peninsula 

7
Authorities discovered some 2,600 hectares of destroyed forest during an operation in May and June.
News quiz

The MND News Quiz of the Week: July 19th

0
Tariffs, traditions and tech workers: Have you been following the news in Mexico this week?
A lake

As Lake Texcoco recovers, rising water swallows the ruins of the canceled airport

4
The flooding of the abandoned project marks a symbolic turning point in the perception of the lake's role itoday n the Valley of Mexico's topography.
An aerial view of the Angel of Independence monument on Reforma Avenue in Mexico City, looking down the tree-lined boulevard surrounded by tall city buildings.

Before you move in: An architect’s guide to finding the right Mexico City location...

1
Architect Benjamin Bross spoke to Mexico News Daily about life in the capital — and where he'd tell someone to buy property.
A collection of unique, handcrafted Mexican ceramic art pieces in shades of green and yellow, including tall stacked sculptures, vases, bowls, and whimsical figures, arranged on a textured grey surface.

How a Mexico City studio is championing truly fair artisan partnerships

0
Artist Melissa Ávila's interior decor studio's support of Mexican artisans goes far beyond simply collecting and reselling their handicrafts.
A bright, full exterior shot showcases a large, modern luxury home with a rectangular infinity pool in the foreground. The house features a striking contemporary design with white and earth-toned facades, expansive dark-framed windows and sliding glass doors, and multiple levels. A grassy lawn surrounds the pool, and in the distance, other residential buildings and clear skies with scattered clouds are visible.

Want to buy property in Mexico? Check this guide to Mexico’s real estate expos...

0
Prepare yourself for navigating Mexico's thriving property market with our comprehensive guide to the country's top real estate trade fairs.
water in the Cutzamala System

Cutzamala System recovers to 56% capacity after historic rainfall in central Mexico

0
The Cutzamala System, which supplies water to the greater Mexico City area, currently has 27.6% more water than it did at this point in 2024.
Oaxaca mayor Raymundo Chagoya speaking at a podium with "Transformando Juntos la Capital" banner behind him as people sit in antique-style carved wooden chairs watching.

Oaxaca Mayor Raymundo Chagoya is saving his city’s water with people power

3
Raymundo Chagoya's plan to revitalize Oaxaca uses neighborhood groups to excite residents about creating a cleaner, environmentally healthier city together.
people walk through mexico city with umbrellas, with the latin america tower in the backgound

An unusually rainy June brings drought relief and flooding to Mexico

8
Midway into the rainy season, Mexico's reservoirs are 45% full on average — a big improvement over last month, but still less than historical norms.
A medical device at a Los Cabos hospital

A guide to medical tourism in Los Cabos

2
These Baja California Sur hospitals are modern and clean and cost a fraction of the price of those at home, worth considering for an upcoming procedure.
A woman with outstretched arms

Spiritual tourism in Mexico: Are the rituals really ancient?

8
Are Mexico's litany of "ceremonial experiences" actually real, or are they a creative way to part tourists from their hard-earned money?

All you need to know about Eastern medicine in Mexico

3
Traditional Chinese medicine in Mexico is bigger than ever, with licensed practitioners all over the country offering a variety of techniques.
Chassis and machinery inside a car factory

In Nuevo León, companies are skipping investment announcements to avoid US scrutiny

0
Though investment remains strong, businesses are taking a cautious approach to public announcements, state officials say.
Ensenada

Ensenada looks to attract big tech with US $300M in public works investment 

3
The Baja California port and tourist city is focusing on attracting capital in three priority sectors: electronics, biotechnology and green energy.
China-Mexico trade

Mexico’s trade deficit with China reached nearly US $120B in 2024

3
Mexico has doubled its trade deficit with China over the past 10 years, with exports of only US $10 billion in 2024, compared to a whopping $129.8 billion in imports.
Nellie Huang walking on a cliffside path in the Riviera Maya

Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 Guide: Luxury travelers

5
From coast to coast, and even places inbetween, there is no shortage of luxury options for travelers in Mexico.
Flor de calabaza

Taste of Mexico: Flor de calabaza

0
Part staple food, part everyday talisman, flor de calabaza has nourished Mexican society for centures in more ways than just one.

The “golden cage” of San Miguel de Allende: A local perspective on gentrification in...

31
It may be the best city in the world, but gentrification in San Miguel is pushing locals out, explains a born-and-bred San Miguelense.
anti-gentrification protesters in Mexico City smash a window

Another side of the story: A Mexican perspective on gentrification

68
Long-time Roma Norte resident María Meléndez shares her views on Mexico City's recent anti-gentrification protest, and what's really behind them.
Bacalar lagoon

Is Bacalar a foodie destination now?

2
Bacalar's restaurant scene got a culinary upgrade in recent years, now featuring Michelin key-chefs and unforgettable lakeside dining.
Flor de calabaza

Taste of Mexico: Flor de calabaza

0
Part staple food, part everyday talisman, flor de calabaza has nourished Mexican society for centures in more ways than just one.
Pitahaya Dragon Fruit

Taste of Mexico: Pitahaya

4
A fruit that tastes incredible and helps your health? Surely it's not true.
A statue of a dinosaur overlooking a vineyard in Coahuila, Mexico

Coahuila — Mexico’s newest wine country behemoth: Part 2

1
Sommelier Diana Serratos continues her deep dive into the vineyards and grapes that make this northern state a titan of viticulture.