GDP growth could remain sluggish in 2025, as Mexico struggles to make the most of the nearshoring opportunity. (BYD)
What does the potential new nearshoring investment from China mean for the future of the Mexican economy, and what will it bring to the country?
As Chinese companies continue to make announcements on investment in Mexico, we dive deeper into the topic. What is motivating these large investment announcements? Will they actually come to fruition? Are the good for Mexico? What do they mean for the USMCA, U.S. tariffs, and the auto industry in the country?
More importantly: Is there any substance to repeated claims that the largest electric car company in the world, Chinese giant BYD, is going to build a plant in Mexico?
MND Deep Dive: Chinese investment in Mexico
This podcast was produced using AI tools. All information collected and discussed in this episode was investigated, written and edited by human journalists. Compiled from Mexico News Daily articles by Travis Bembenek, Thomas Buckley, Felicity Bradstock and Peter Davies. Edited by Kate Bohné, Michelle Aguilar, Caitlin Cooper, Rose Eglhoff and Chris Havler-Barrett. Podcast produced by Chris Havler-Barrett.
In what is one of Mexico's best beach breaks, our local guide has everything you need for an unforgettable trip. (Hotel Amaca/Instagram)
No matter how many times you have visited the Jalisco coast, whether you’re a first-timer or a decades-long veteran, experiencing the Zona Romantica is a must. The deliciously eclectic, historic neighborhood is a sun-kissed playground where bohemian cool, vibrant nightlife and seaside charm intersect on every cobblestone corner. The problem is that Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romantica has so much to offer, it’s daunting to think about beginning to explore without a guide.
This neighborhood brims with places to eat, drink, and play that’ll have you fully immersed in the energy, and falling in love with this city on the sea. Let’s take a spin through the best spots to stay, dine, and soak up the magic of Zona Romantica.
Where to stay: A room with personality
Fancy a boutique hotel stay in the heart of the city? Look no further than Hotel Amaca. (Hotel Amaca/Instagram)
If boutique charm is calling your name, Villa Mercedes Petit Hotel is an artsy little sanctuary just steps from the action. It’s adults-only, with lush courtyards and tucked-away nooks where you can recharge. If you’re looking to mix luxury with a bit of “seen-and-be-seen,” Pinnacle Resorts offers the best of both worlds — think rooftop infinity pools, chic rooms with kitchens, and unbeatable Bay of Banderas views.
Another classic pick is Playa Los Arcos Hotel Beach Resort & Spa, with prime beachfront access that means you’re never far from the sound of the waves. This is the place for traditional Mexican charm, with colorful tiles, archways, and a location that puts you right on the sand.
Almar Resort is a great choice if you’re looking for an upscale, LGBTQ+-friendly spot with a ton of personality. Their rooftop events draw crowds for good reason, and the views from the rooms and suites are hard to beat. For something a little more boho-chic and cozy, Hotel Amaca is the perfect mix of charm and affordability, making it an ideal base for all your Zona Romantica explorations.
In Zona Romantica, the food scene is a glorious blend of down-to-earth taco joints, inventive culinary hotspots, and everything in between. Start at Tuna Azul, a seafood gem with ceviche that’ll knock your flip-flops off. The vibe is relaxed, and the seafood is as fresh as it gets.
Tre Piatti has built a loyal following thanks to its fresh pasta and intimate, tucked-away courtyard. Italian food lovers will adore this spot for a romantic night out. Looking for something totally unique? Tintoque mixes traditional Mexican flavors with modern flair, creating dishes that are as bold as they are unforgettable. Their location overlooking the Rio Cuale sets the scene for an intimate, quiet dinner with innovative cocktails and a constantly evolving menu.
When it comes to tacos, everyone here has their favorites, but Panchos Takos is legendary. There’s usually a line, but the al pastor quesadillas are worth the wait, trust me — they are even better than the tacos. If seafood tacos are your thing, don’t miss Mariscos Cisneros — the shrimp tacos are a local favorite, and one bite will show you why. For a casual bite that packs a punch, Burning Burrito is your go-to for hearty burritos, while Tacos El Moreno serves up no-frills goodness with tacos that satisfy every craving.
If you’re in the mood for some beachfront elegance, La Palapa is the kind of place where you can dig your toes in the sand while savoring fresh seafood dishes. Finally, 116 Pulpito is a fun spot for tapas and creative cocktails in an upbeat setting, ideal for kicking off a night out.
Nightlife hotspots: Where to drink and dance
The Top Sky Bar offers photo-worthy food and photo-worthy views – what more could you ask for? (Top Sky Bar)
As the sun sets, Zona Romantica transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub. For a relaxed start, head to El Soñador, a rooftop bar where you can sip a casual beer and shoot some pool. If you’re in the mood for a bit more buzz, Mr. Flamingo is your lively open-air go-to with a come-as-you-are vibe and a crowd that’s always ready to party.
For a touch of sophistication, Twisted Palms Rooftop Lounge delivers martinis with a side of movie nights and live music, while Top Sky Bar serves up sweeping views and Instagrammable cocktails in a trendy rooftop setting. Over at La Noche, three floors of fun await, with rooftop seating and lively drag shows that make it a favorite for LGBTQ+ travelers and allies alike.
Craft beer fans will feel right at home at Los Muertos Brewing and Monzon Brewing Co., both pouring excellent brews and serving up a friendly atmosphere. And for those who prefer a bit of glam with their nightcap, Garbo Piano Bar serves live jazz and martinis in a chic, low-key setting that’s perfect for a sophisticated end to the evening. For a more laid-back vibe with great live music, Awaysis offers a casual setup and a constantly rotating roster of live bands.
When it comes to daytime fun, Zona Romantica has no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. For a slice of local flavor, make your way to the Olas Altas Farmers Market on Saturday. Here you’ll find handmade crafts, tasty eats, and everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods — it’s the perfect spot to pick up unique souvenirs.
Art lovers will appreciate the Art Walk, a self-guided tour through local galleries showcasing works by Vallarta’s vibrant art scene. And if a beach day is calling your name, Playa de los Muertos is where it’s at. Rent a beach chair, order a margarita, and watch the world go by. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to the Los Muertos Pier and hop on a boat for a day trip to nearby hidden beaches or snorkeling spots.
Of course, a simple stroll along the Malecón is a must. This oceanfront promenade is dotted with sculptures, street performers, and endless people-watching opportunities. Take your time exploring the local vendors and art installations, or grab a snack and enjoy the seaside breeze.
Zona Romantica’s cobblestone streets are a pleasure to wander on foot. You’ll discover hidden courtyards, flower-draped balconies, and vibrant murals around every corner. Simply take the time to wander from street to street and soak in the funky, friendly, eclectic energy that makes this Puerto Vallarta neighborhood truly legendary.
Meagan Drillinger is a New York native who has spent the past 15 years traveling around and writing about Mexico. While she’s on the road for assignments most of the time, Puerto Vallarta is her home base. Follow her travels on Instagram at @drillinjourneys or through her blog at drillinjourneys.com.
Mexican aguas frescas come in as many colors and flavors as you can imagine, with myriad regional variations as well. (Manuel Gomez Ruano/CC-BY SA 3.0)
Refreshing and flavorful, aguas frescas are a treasured part of Mexico’s gastronomic heritage. Sold widely by vendors, shops and restaurants, the non-alcoholic drinks are instantly recognizable. Both by the barrel-shaped yet transparent glass or plastic vitroleros that often contain them and by the inevitable kaleidoscopic array of colors whenever more than a few are placed side-by-side. Indeed, the colors of aguas frescas are like a map of Mexico done in miniature, tracing the abundance of fruit, flowers and seeds that flourish in various locales.
The history of aguas frescas in Mexico
People have been flavoring water with fruit and flowers in Mexico since ancient times. Sugar, the most common sweetener for modern aguas frescas, was introduced later, after the Spanish invasion of the early 16th century.
You can find aguas frescas in markets and street stands across Mexico. (Margarito Pérez Retana/Cuartoscuro)
Many of the popular aguas frescas found in Mexico today — notably, jamaica and horchata — were made possible by the trade network the Spanish established during the colonial era. However, aguas frescas developed regionally with locally available ingredients, from grains and legumes like barley and alfalfa to nuts and seeds like almonds and chia and flowers and spices like hibiscus and cinnamon. Fruits were even more frequently used, of course, thanks to a natural bounty that included introduced plants like grapefruit, mango, melon, orange, papaya, passionfruit, peach and local ones including sapote, soursop, guava, tejocote and xoconostle.
Regional variations still abound for these drinks, with recipes richly evocative of their place of origin. For example, agua de betabel (beet), associated with Tlaxcala, mixes water with fresh beet and orange juice. Agua de matalí, a favorite in Chiapas and Tabasco, features the edible leaves of spiderwort plants. There’s also agua de nance, a fruit-based specialty native to Nayarit; and agua de horchata con tuna in Oaxaca, which pairs the rice-based, cinnamon-flavored horchata with fruit from the prickly pear cactus. Agua de xonocostle hails from Guanajuato, with its cactus-fruit pulp sweetened with sugar, as virtually all of these drinks are. The list goes on and on.
Clay pots were the original containers that kept aguas frescas slightly chilled a few degrees cooler than room temperature so that little or no ice was needed. Hence the word fresca, or fresh, as a descriptor. Some traditional producers, like Casilda Aguas Regionales in Oaxaca, still use clay pots. However, the distinctive vitroleros and bottled versions are now more common. As for the best time to drink aguas frescas, there are no bad options, but summer is the ideal season, and lunch is considered the perfect meal; largely, one presumes because so many restaurants offer aguas frescas as part of lunchtime menu deals.
Agua de jamaica
Despite the myriad regional variations, a few aguas frescas are widely popular and readily available throughout the country. Agua de jamaica (hibiscus) is one of them. This crimson-colored sipper owes its existence to the Manila-to-Acapulco galleon trade that began in 1565 and connected the Spanish colonies of the Philippines and Mexico. One of the first global trade routes, the yearly Nao de China ships brought Asian specialties to Acapulco and, after a trip overland to Veracruz, on to Spain for 250 years.
Dried hibiscus flowers ready to be made into agua de jamaica. (Gobierno de México)
Even though hibiscus is native to Asia and Africa, it was only via this peripatetic journey that it finally arrived in Mexico. Perhaps not surprisingly, the state of Guerrero, where Acapulco is located, continues to lead the way in its production, followed by neighboring Michoacán. In 2019, per the Agriculture and Rural Development Ministry (Sader), over 11 million pounds of hibiscus was grown in Guerrero to sate the national appetite for this beloved agua fresca flavor. Most recipes contain only four ingredients: water, hibiscus flowers, sugar and ice.
Agua de horchata
The origins of horchata are in Northern Africa, where the drink is thousands of years old. However, the Spanish recipe for horchata de chufa, made in Valencia with tiger nuts, was the likely genesis for the later Mexican version, which was introduced to Mexico following the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. This domestic agua fresca eschewed tiger nuts in favor of rice, leading to a much creamier, milk-like beverage. It’s also a tastier one, thanks to the addition of flavor-rich ingredients like cinnamon and vanilla.
Although consumed nationally, regional horchata variations remain common. In Comitán, Chiapas, melon seeds are included in the traditional mix, as are almonds and sometimes orange peel. Almonds, it should be noted, are also a favorite in Colima. In Campeche, meanwhile, coconut is the go-to extra. In Veracruz, it’s coyol, a fruit sourced from a species of palm tree. In Oaxaca, as previously noted, tunas, or the fruits of the prickly pear cactus, are a popular flavor enhancer. But so, too, is jiotilla, another cactus fruit. Milk can likewise be added for sweetness. In Mexico City, condensed milk is preferred.
Horchata is beloved around Mexico and across the world. (Weeknd Whisk)
Agua de limón y chía
Chia seeds are considered a superfood and like a lot of other wonderful things — chocolate and vanilla, to name a couple of biggies — they’re originally from Mexico. Sourced from the flowering plant Salvia hispanica, these seeds and the attendant fruit pulp have been consumed in Mexico for thousands of years, with the Olmec culture noted as the first to domesticate them for everyday use.
In the United States, chia seeds are commonly packed into baked goods for added nutritional value. In Mexico, they’re a key ingredient in one of the country’s most popular aguas frescas: agua de limón y chía. This beverage has only four ingredients — lime, chia, sugar and water — and its green hue means it can be lined up next to vitrolero jugs of horchata and jamaica on patriotic occasions to mimic the colors of the Mexican flag.
Agua de tamarindo
Tamarind, like hibiscus, came to Mexico via Africa and Asia during the colonial period. Due to its balanced blend of sweet and sour, it has has long been prized as a culinary ingredient to flavor candies, cocktails, sauces and — yes — aguas frescas. The recipe for agua de tamarindo is as elegantly simple as the name would suggest, requiring only tamarind pods, water, sugar and ice. It’s another widespread favorite.
What’s the most consumed agua fresca in Mexico? There are no definitive figures, but tamarindo, jamaica, horchata and limón y chía are the most typical examples and thus the best introduction to these delicious drinks.
Chris Sands is the Cabo San Lucas local expert for the USA Today travel website 10 Best, writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook, and a contributor to numerous websites and publications, including Tasting Table, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, Porthole Cruise, Cabo Living and Mexico News Daily. His specialty is travel-related content and lifestyle features focused on food, wine and golf.
These articles have sparked conversations with my friends and family, who often come to me with fruits, dishes, and drinks that they think I should try. A good friend of mine, who is passionate about food and books, told me, “You have to write about Mark Twain’s favorite fruit.” I replied, “Sounds like it won’t be Mexican.” He looked at me as if I didn’t know anything about life and said, “C’mon, chirimoya is the most Mexican fruit I know.” I began to doubt my own knowledge about the origins of fruits. “No,” I finally answered, “chirimoya is from Perú, isn’t it?” I could see that he was starting to question himself as well. “What am I, ChatGPT? Look it up!”
And so I did. He’s partially right. Mark Twain did try cherimoya during his travels in Hawaii and described it as “the most delicious fruit known to man” in his travel journals (not in “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” as my friend originally believed).
If it’s good enough for Mark Twain, it’s good enough for you. (Wikimedia)
Is chirimoya mexican?
Until a few years ago, it was believed that chirimoya (Annona cherimola) was endemic to the high valleys of Peru and Ecuador. However, recent discoveries have shown that the Annona family extends from southern Mexico to northern Chile, and includes over 170 species. Therefore, we can confidently say that it originates from the Americas. The name “chirimoya” comes from the Quechua word meaning “cold seed,” which refers to its ability to grow in cooler environments and high altitudes.
Unlike the Andean civilizations and Mark Twain, who appreciated its unique, tropical, and luxurious taste, our indigenous ancestors did not share the same enthusiasm for chirimoya. Unfortunately, it appears that the younger generation continues to overlook this delicacy; my cashier recently asked me about the name of this weird-looking fruit.
Amigo, Mark Twain was right, cherimoya is one of the most delicious fruits known to man. Its flavor is both sweet and tangy, with a custard-like consistency that makes you want to grab a spoon and dive right in. You can taste hints of pineapple, banana, and even bubblegum.
The flesh is incredibly tender, creamy, and smooth, making it truly delightful. However, be cautious of the seeds, as they are toxic. Enjoying this fruit serves as a reminder of the importance of moderation in pleasure.
Why You Should Be Eating More Cherimoya?
Cherimoya is not only a delightful fruit but also packs a surprising nutritional punch. Here’s why it deserves a place in your diet:
It turns out that cherimoya is also really, really good for your body. (Directo al Paladar)
Antioxidants: Cherimoya is loaded with antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which help fight oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting your body’s defenses against chronic diseases, and promoting long-term health.
Vitamins and Minerals: A single serving of cherimoya provides a healthy dose of Vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and keeps your skin glowing. Additionally, it is a good source of potassium and magnesium, both of which are essential for heart health and regulating blood pressure.
Supports Digestion: Being high in fiber, cherimoya is great for your digestive system. Furthermore, it can help you feel full, making it an ideal snack for weight management.
Mood Booster: Surprisingly, cherimoya may also enhance your mood! It contains B-vitamins, particularly B6, which assist your body in producing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These brain chemicals are vital for regulating mood and may reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. So, probably Mr. Twain was just in a serotonin rush while talking about the cherimoya.
Eye Health: With its high content of Vitamin C and carotenoids, cherimoya supports eye health and may reduce the risk of conditions such as macular degeneration and cataracts. It’s a delicious way to keep your vision sharp!
How to eat cherimoya like a pro
All you need is a ripe cherimoya, a spoon, and maybe a bit of restraint, because once you start, it’s hard to stop.
Fresh and Raw: The most common way to enjoy cherimoya is by cutting it in half and scooping out the creamy flesh with a spoon. It’s dessert in its purest form.
In Smoothies and Bowls: Cherimoya blends beautifully into smoothies and yogurt bowls. Its naturally sweet flavor means you won’t need much else for a rich, tropical taste.
Frozen Treat: For a refreshing twist, pop cherimoya chunks in the freezer for a few hours, and you’ll have a quick, sorbet-like snack that’s perfect on a hot day.
Cherimoya Smoothie Recipe: A simple treat to start your day
Here’s a quick and easy recipe that highlights cherimoya’s creamy texture and sweet flavor – a smoothie that tastes like a tropical vacation in a glass.
Ingredients:
• 1 ripe cherimoya, peeled and deseeded
• 1 banana
• ½ cup milk (any milk of your choice)
• 1 tbsp honey or agave (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
• Ice (optional, for a frosty version)
Instructions:
1. Scoop out the cherimoya flesh, discarding the seeds, and place it in a blender.
2. Add the banana, coconut milk, and sweetener.
3. Blend until smooth. For a chilled version, add a handful of ice and blend again.
4. Pour, sip, and feel the tropical vibes wash over you.
Amigos, In a world of apples and oranges, be a cherimoya. Or at least, try it.
María Meléndez is a Mexico City food blogger and influencer.
As part of MND's mission to inform and entertain, CEO Travis Bembenek unveils two new subscriber-exclusive AI podcasts. (Will Francis/Unsplash)
Mexico News Daily’s team of over 50 writers and editors is honored to be your front row seat to Mexico, each and every day. Our mission is to educate, inform, and entertain you about the country — while doing so in an apolitical and unbiased way.
As many of you have noticed, we recently covered both the Mexican and U.S. elections in a fact-based manner. We reported day in and day out, providing expert analysis of what top politicians, business leaders and political analysts had to say. We took great care to present voices and perspectives from both sides of the political aisle. We presented you with the facts and information to form your own opinions without telling you how we think you should think. We are proud of being your impartial guide through two very polarizing elections — something not many news outlets can say in 2024.
Our team is constantly thinking about how we can better serve our readers. That is why we have recently launched our MND Local sections with expanded local content and the opportunity to read the stories in your area that matter the most to you. That is also why we recently launched a YouTube channel with digital video shorts of a portion of our content. Have you checked out our YouTube page yet? It’s pretty cool.
It is also why we continue to launch a variety of new content series like: “Water in Mexico,” “My American Dream is in Mexico,” and “Taste of Mexico” — just to name a few.
Leveraging new technologies to improve our offering
Our new podcasts will help you understand the nuances of Mexico’s economy, people and politics in the same great MND style. (CDX PDX/Unsplash)
I am excited to announce today that we are now going to begin offering our paid subscribers two new cutting-edge products that we are certain will help further deliver on our mission to educate, inform, and entertain you.
The first one will be called MND Deep Dive. Starting today and on a regular basis going forward, our team will be bringing you an audio podcast “Deep Dive” by using AI tools to analyze MND articles and create a podcast discussion on some of the most important topics facing the country.
Our first Deep Dive will focus on the arrival of Chinese car companies, specifically BYD, who are evaluating the possibility of nearshoring in Mexico in order to access the North American market more effectively. In upcoming weeks, expect to hear other trending stories like the movement of the Mexican Peso, the case for the Maya Train, and the potential of Mexico’s railroad alternative to the Panama Canal.
The podcast will arm you with additional information, present different opinions and perspectives, and shed new light on complex topics in an accessible manner. MND willanalyze and summarize a number of our articles to bring you an overview podcast that helps make sense of it all.
MND Deep Dive: Chinese investment in Mexico
The second product is calledMND Perspectives. Here, we will analyze my CEO perspectives articles and present you with interesting and different ways to think about the topics we cover each week. Today, we will dive into Mexico’s minimum wage and the pros and cons of President Sheinbaum’s plan to increase salaries to US $500 per month by the time she leaves office in 2030.
The MND team has used AI tools to create these discussions and give you new perspectives on important topics in an effort to help you better understand them.
MND Perspectives: Minimum wage in Mexico
It’s important to note that both of these podcasts, despite being AI voices, had a heavy human touch. The articles were written and edited by humans. The podcast preparation and editing were done by humans. We expect both of these products will improve and evolve quickly over the next weeks and months as the technology and our use of it improves.
The Team at MNDis committed to continuing to get betterand we are reinvesting every penny of our subscriber revenue to be your best source of news and information on Mexico. We are confident that the Mexico News Daily podcast series will be another platform to further educate, inform, and entertain youThank you for supporting us and for reading, watching, (and now listening to!) MND. The best is yet to come!
Travis Bembenek is the CEO of Mexico News Daily and has been living, working or playing in Mexico for over 27 years.
Pioneering therapy techniques that see horses help disabled children have been quietly operating across Mexico for years. Meet some of the organizations making a difference. (All photos by Elisabeth Ashe)
Horses have been a part of my personal and professional life for over 35 years. Living part time on Eden Valley Farms, in Ontario, Canada, I first learned about equine therapy from owner Mandy Carson and her partner Toni Cromwell’s program, the HARP-Art of Whitespace. HARP stands for Human-Animal Relationship Program, and in addition, as a treatment for children and adults with disabilities, it offers nature walks and forest bathing. Carson encouraged me to open a center in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, where I have lived since 1995. I knew there was no other equine facility in my area; the only previous one had closed years ago, and the closest one was a five-hour drive away in neighboring Michoacán. In fact, equine therapy in Mexico is still something of a rarity nationwide.
It took a bit of research, but I found an online course on hippotherapy. In simple terms, equine or hippotherapy is a form of therapy in which a therapist uses a horse’s characteristic range of movements to address a human patient’s physical or mental disorders.
Client at The Seahorse sanctuary & Equine Therapy Centre 2
Armed with some knowledge and a burning desire to build a dream, I was fortunate to be lent land to use for the program’s first two years by the Aguilars, a local family. I gathered a group of people to build from scratch and opened The Seahorse Sanctuary and Equine Therapy Centre in Coacoyul, a small town 15 minutes outside of Zihuatanejo.
Training and courses in equine therapy available are as numerous and varied as patients’ motivation and results therapists seek to achieve, but they include names like EAL Training Centers, the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International, the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (Eagala) and the Mexican Association of Therapeutic Riding (AMET). Many centers specialize in working with children with disabilities or special needs, primarily with issues ranging from autism to cerebral palsy, as well as emotional issues such as anxiety and trauma. Others treat professionals who suffer from PTSD due to work in high-stress situations.
Some organizations, including mine, work with seniors. Horses can serve as emotional support animals or help older people who have mobility issues due to age or medical procedures such as hip replacement surgery. With all patients, young or old, the gentle movement of the horse causes stimulation through the spinal column, which goes to the brain and affects the nerve branches. From there, this movement releases certain chemicals at the brain level, which generates stimulation in the body. The gentle movement of the horse also helps to massage the afflicted areas
There are several highly qualified centers for equine therapy in Mexico spread out across the country. Follow along to learn about four of them.
Amigos de Riendas para la Vida, a civil association based in Guadalajara, was founded 15 years ago by Mercedes Arámbula. Arámbula started her journey with years of horseback riding experience, a love of horses and a desire to combine that love with helping others. She was impacted personally by the birth of a nephew with a severe disability, and she began to investigate how horses could help people like him. Her research showed very little training in Mexico, so she decided to obtain her certification at the High Hopes Therapeutic Riding center in Old Lyme, Connecticut, through PATH International.
In 2010, Amigos de Riendas was established with the new team certified by the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (Eagala). Today, the center boasts nine horses, 35 to 40 clients at any given time and volunteers and staff. The organization is almost completely funded by the government of Jalisco through agencies such as the Directorate for the Inclusion of Disabled Persons (DIPD) and the Social Aid System (SAS), as well as local and corporate companies and private benefactors, so that 75 percent of clients do not have to pay the 650-peso fee per class.
What made Arámbula sure this was the path for her?, “Being with horses, seeing kids grow, learn and improve is wonderful,” she says. “Seeing children walk who could not walk before, or who are now talking, is why I do what I do. And working with the children and their families for years is very special and rewarding.”
Further research took me to Michoacán, where I spoke to founder Carolina Escobedo of Crece, a non-profit in Morelia, Michoacán. Escobedo, a special education teacher who graduated from the University of Puebla, has extensive horse experience and a love of competition, which makes her approach slightly different from most centers, although equally effective: Escobedo believes in incorporating sporting events as part of therapy.
Competition sports at Crece S.A 1
“These kids can learn to ride and there is no reason why they can’t learn to jump too,” she told me. “Especially the kids with autism. And future plans and a possible source of revenue would be hosting competitions for kids with autism. We want them to feel as if they can achieve something. That there is something they can be good at and excel in. And so we do more than just physiotherapy: we do sports.”
Therapy and courses can start for children at three years of age and continue to classes for adolescents aged 12 to 17 and beyond. In operation for eight years, Crece’s 80 students mainly come from Morelia and the many surrounding towns. Courses range in cost and are dependent on income. Some students pay full price, while others pay only 50 per cent or nothing.
“The government does not help much, although the family services agency (DIF)at the state level does give them some money,” Escobsays. “But applying for it is a lot of work. To keep afloat we have other businesses such as buying and selling horses.”
Jean Gerber has had a love affair with horses for much of her adult life, and San Miguel de Allende is where she can feed her passion. A friend told her about a relative who had severe neurological issues and how the only thing that helped him was the equine therapy classes he was taking. “It planted a seed,” Gerber said, leading her to investigate everything she could about equine therapy.
Gerber teamed up with fellow horse enthusiast and therapist Lisa Attridge de Gordillo, who also owns Rancho Corazón de Nopal, and started a 6-week pilot program. Today, they have three therapy horses and 14 students at Equinoterapia SMA.
Recently, the organization achieved non-profit status, but further certifications are needed to attain donation status, which will allow them to receive donations. “Only then will the government do much to help financially,” says Gerber, “however, local investors such as Daniel Ortiz of Coldwell Banker Smart in SMA and Vinedos San Lucas and a regional organization, Ninos con Autismo SMA help fill in the funds needed. In addition, the expat community and locals give generously.”
Equinoterapia SMA founder Jean Gerber. (Equinoterapia SMA)
Fundraising is ongoing and headed by volunteers. “It’s wonderful how our volunteers and therapists become so invested in the project, asking to come two to three times a week to help their kids. They embrace this as if it were their own business.” says Gerber. “It is so rewarding to see the results from the therapy — to see children who were afraid of horses now become accustomed to them. The parents are telling us about the results the children are experiencing in their homes. It fills the heart. Everyone is smiling and happy.”
Founded in 2012 by Evelyn Trejo, Equinaterapias Hossana is a non-profit organization supported by the San José del Cabo-based Los Cabos Children’s Foundation. Trejo fell in love with horses at 15 years old, but as an adult, she became an accountant who worked in a government agency. While there, she learned there were many disabled children and adults in the area and no therapy available for them. She approached friends with horses, obtained some land and started her therapy center.
Their organization developed a very different method, incorporating psychologists and therapy to assess a child’s needs and develop activities to help them reach their goals.
“Some of our programs are free to children of low-income families, while others are very low cost, depending on the socioeconomic situation,” Trejo told me. “Our therapists are certified by the Mexican Association of Therapeutic Riding, and we have a psychologist, a physiotherapist and a wonderful group of teachers on our team. Equinaterapia Hossana’s goals have always been to improve children’s muscular tone and coordination and to help with their psychological attention, understanding, self-esteem and memory ability.”
Incorporating play with horse therapy at Equinterapia Hossana.
Over the years, Equinaterapias Hossana has served more than 500 children from the municipality of Los Cabos. They feel strongly they have achieved wonderful results with children and young people. But, says Trejo, “Horses are expensive and so are the professionals we work with, so we look for other ways to make money. We also have a farm, and every Saturday, we offer farm tours and allow families to tour our facilities and interact with the animals. We also offer horseback riding lessons that teach children the sport that it is.”
When asked what drew her to this line of work, she says the same thing that all three of the other women — and myself — say about equine therapy: “It’s my passion.”
The writer divides her time between Canada and Zihuatanejo.
It's on your water, your beer and even your Coca-Cola. What are you meant to do with retornables? (Diego Simón Sánchez/Cuartoscuro)
When it comes to buying liquid in Mexico, not everything is as straightforward as you might think.
I myself realized this the first time I was sent out by my family to buy a two-liter Coke at the local neighborhood store. As I started out the door, my then-mother-in-law said, “Hey, you forgot the Coke bottle!”
There’s nothing like the great taste of Coca-Cola, especially when you can get your deposit back at the end. (Coca-Cola)
“What?” I said. “What?” she responded.
This is how it went for a bit until I finally made the connection. We had a retornable.
What’s a retornable?
A retornable — literally, a returnable — is what it sounds like: a bottle of sturdier plastic or glass than the disposable kind that you can take to the store to return or “refill” by switching it for a full bottle. Doing this has a couple of benefits. The one that people seem most keen on is that it’s cheaper. But it’s also ecological: switching out one piece of plastic or glass for another instead of throwing one away is a “granito de arena” (grain of sand), as they say.
Initially, you need to buy a new one. The brand matters, as does the condition, when it comes to switching them out. If the garrafón is damaged or broken, the people at the store will not let you exchange it. If they do not have any new water-filled garrafones of the brand you have and want to exchange, then you’ll have to go somewhere else.
Empty garrafones ready to be returned and refilled. (Shutterstock)
Garrafones are distributed by bottling companies — Bonafont and Ciel are big ones — and there are often delivery trucks you might be able to catch and ask to come to your home every week or so. Smaller local companies will also distribute to local stores or deliver.
Walk into a store with your empty garrafón and show the attendant. They’ll usually tell you to leave it on the stand and grab a new one.
If you don’t want to exchange them, there are also places called expendios de agua or purificadoras — water dispensaries — where you can wash them and fill them back up. This is usually a cheaper option. These are less common in major cities but are a staple of small towns across the country.
Because garrafones are so heavy, I recommend having them delivered if you’re able to. With this option, just hand them to the delivery person and they’ll give you new ones.
Coca-Cola
As you’ve probably realized, Mexicans love their Coke. You might have noticed the harder plastic bottles in the refrigerators of your local store of Coke. Here it’s the same dynamic as with garrafones, though you don’t always need to buy one initially.
Often, you can pay an importe (fee) of around 10 pesos instead. When you bring back the envase (container), you can get the importe back. However, you’ll probably just take the envase back to get another full one, this time without paying an importe.
Caguamas and cartones
Delicious caguamas ready to deliver beer-flavored goodness. For an importe, of course. (Graciela López/Cuartoscuro)
A caguama is a liter-sized bottle of beer, and a cartón is basically a box of 24 bottles of beer. And guess what? They’re also retornables and you can also leave importes if you don’t have anything to exchange yet.
As you can probably guess, this is a very popular option for parties. Just be sure everyone knows — if they’re foreigners, I mean, because Mexicans will know — not to throw away the beer bottles.
Assorted goods
Though not a drinkable liquid, there are also places where you can go to refill your cleaning supplies. You just need to take your own envases to get filled there instead of exchanging them. These places are called jarcierías, and you can get things like liquid and powdered cleaners and laundry detergent here, usually by the liter.
Happy shopping, and don’t forget your retornables when you head out!
Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard celebrated Toyota’s investment, one of the first major announcements following the uncertainty of the U.S. presidential elections. (Omar Martínez/Cuartoscuro)
Anticipating a new sales record this year, Toyota demonstrated its confidence in Mexico by announcing a US $1.45 billion investment in factories in two Mexican states.
The Japanese carmaker will renovate its facilities in Tecate, Baja California, and in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato. The funds will help adapt manufacturing for Toyota’s new Tacoma pick-up truck and its hybrid model.
The Japanese carmaker will renovate this facility in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato, as well as another factory in Tecate, Baja California. (Cuartoscuro)
The new investments will also create 1,600 new jobs, Toyota México President Luis Lozano said on Thursday, after meeting with Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard.
Ebrard confirmed the news in a post on the social platform X, adding that Toyota “is one of the companies with which we are working closely, and it has a great future in our country.”
Ebrard celebrated Toyota’s news, highlighting the importance of creating certainty for investors in a challenging economic environment, the newspaper El Sol de Acapulco reported, especially as foreign direct investment plays such a crucial role in Mexico’s economy.
What will the Toyota investment bring to Mexico?
Toyota — which boasts 98 car dealerships in Mexico offering 18 vehicle models — said that not only will the investment increase production capacity at the two plants, but it will also incorporate new technologies that optimize use of resources and help reduce emissions.
After reporting a 22% increase in sales during the first half of the year, Toyota projected it would surpass 105,000 in combined sales — both internal combustion engine and hybrid electric vehicles — in 2024, according to El Financiero.
The company sold 58,081 vehicles — 27% of which were hybrid — during the first six months of the year, even after projecting sales of fewer than 100,000 cars in 2024. The initial forecast was influenced by supply problems — since resolved — involving semiconductors and other parts for hybrid vehicles.
Lozano said the latest investment announcement is in addition to those already made, and will bring Toyota’s total investment since arriving in Mexico 22 years ago to US $2 billion by the end of 2024.
En Toyota reafirmamos la confianza en México con una inversión de USD 1.45mil millones que ha creado 1,600 empleos al cierre de 2024 para producir Tacoma, sumando a los casi USD 2mil millones ya invertidos.
Last year, the carmaker invested US $328 million in its Guanajuato plant, as it first moved to convert production processes for the new Tacoma hybrid. Overall, Toyota has invested close to $1.2 billion in the state since operations began there in 2019.
Last year’s investment converted Guanajuato into a key player in Toyota’s electrification production strategy, the company said in a June 2023 statement.
The success of Guanajuato’s transition is reflected in a study carried out by the digital platform Directorio Automotriz earlier this year.
The report found that in terms of suppliers, Guanajuato is home to 16 of the 67 electromobility and electrification component suppliers in the country, and to 18 of the 52 raw material suppliers nationwide. Since the beginning of 2023, 13 new investments directly related to electromobility have been established in Guanajuato.
President Claudia Sheinbaum calls on a reporter during her Friday morning press conference. (Presidencia via Cuartoscuro)
Foreign Affairs Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente spoke about the upcoming G20 Summit at President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference, or mañanera, on Friday.
Here is a summary of his remarks, as well as those made by the president in response to questions about her telephone conversation with Donald Trump and the “main challenge” of her six-year term in government.
“President Sheinbaum will be there the first day because she has decided … to return on the 19th to be here on the 20th for all the celebrations of the anniversary of the [Mexican] Revolution,” he said.
De la Fuente, formerly Mexico’s permanent representative to the United Nations, said that among the issues world leaders will discuss at the G20 meeting are the international economy, “the fight against hunger and poverty” and the energy transition.
He also said that various G20 countries have requested bilateral meetings with Mexico.
Foreign Affairs Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente said multiple G20 countries have requested bilateral meetings with Mexico’s new administration. (Andrea Murcia Monsivais/Cuartoscuro)
“I’m going to mention them in alphabetical order: Canada, China, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea and the United Kingdom. Obviously it won’t be possible to meet with all of them, there won’t be enough time, so we’re in the process of trying to establish [which meetings will go ahead],” de la Fuente said.
The foreign minister also noted that Sheinbaum is the only female leader who has so far confirmed she will attend the meeting in Rio.
The president herself said that Mexico’s delegation, including de la Fuente and Energy Minister Luz Elena González, will fly on a commercial airline to Brazil.
“A time came when he said, ‘there’s the issue of the border,’ that’s all he said. And I said to him, ‘yes, there’s the issue of the border, but there will be … [another time] to talk about it,” she said
Sheinbaum said that Trump also sent his best wishes to López Obrador, “with whom he said he had a very good relationship,” and invited her to his inauguration in January.
Sheinbaum described her call with the U.S. president-elect as “very cordial.” (Gage Skidmore/CC BY-SA 2.0)
“He said ‘see you soon,’ nos vemos pronto, in other words, and I said, ‘Yes, see you soon.'”
Sheinbaum subsequently said that having a good relationship with the United States is “one of the challenges” of her six-year term in government, albeit not the biggest.
The main challenge of Sheinbaum’s sexenio
Sheinbaum told reporters that the biggest challenge of her six-year term, or sexenio, and the one to which her government will dedicate the most time, is the construction of “well-being and peace in Mexico.”
The government will dedicate 24 hours a day to achieving that goal “if necessary,” she said.
Sheinbaum, like López Obrador, is dedicating huge amounts of money to social and welfare programs as she seeks to further reduce poverty and inequality in Mexico. She hopes that that focus will aid the government’s efforts to combat crime across the country.
President Sheinbaum has avoided using the phrase "hugs, not bullets," which defined her predecessor's approach to organized crime. (Daniel Augusto/Cuartoscuro)
Is President Sheinbaum’s new federal government forsaking the “not bullets” component of the so-called “hugs, not bullets” security strategy pursued by the administration of former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO)?
In a report published on Thursday, the Associated Press said that “a string of bloody confrontations” during the first month of President Claudia Sheinbaum’s six-year term “suggests the government is quietly abandoning the ‘no bullets’ part of that strategy and is much more willing to use the full force of the military and the militarized National Guard.”
Before we look at the alleged evidence that the Sheinbaum administration is moving away from the security strategy championed by AMLO, let’s first take a step back.
What is (or was) the ‘Hugs, not bullets’ strategy?
In a nutshell, the “hugs, not bullets,” or “abrazos, no balazos,” strategy is an approach to public security in which addressing the root causes of crime through government social programs is favored over combating criminal groups with force.
The previous government poured huge amounts of money into social programs, including employment schemes that aim to provide work opportunities to disadvantaged young people who might otherwise be tempted to join the ranks of criminal groups.
In support of the “no bullets” aspect of the strategy, López Obrador directed federal security forces to avoid violent confrontations with cartels whenever possible, although clashes still occurred.
López Obrador gave more power to the military, but directed it to avoid direct confrontations with cartels where possible. (Presidencia/Cuartoscuro)
The Sheinbaum administration presented its national security strategy a month ago, and one of its four core tenets is attention to the root causes of crime, i.e. the “hugs” component of AMLO’s approach. The government is maintaining all existing social programs, and adding new ones, as part of its strategy to reduce crime.
What about the ‘not bullets’ part?
The “bloody confrontations” AP referred to in its report are the following:
Mexican soldiers killed 19 suspected members of the Sinaloa Cartel after they were attacked by more than 30 gunmen near Culiacán on Oct. 22. No soldiers were killed or wounded. AP reported that the killing of the 19 drug cartel suspects in “a lopsided encounter” in which soldiers “suffered not a scratch themselves … awakened memories of past human rights abuses, like a 2014 incident in which soldiers killed about a dozen cartel suspects after they had surrendered.”
In late October in Guerrero, soldiers killed 17 cartel gunmen, most of whom were Guatemalan. No soldiers were killed in the confrontation, which occurred after the cartel gunmen killed two local police officers in the coastal municipality of Técpan de Galeana.
Does the use of force by federal security forces in the incidents outlined above provide evidence that the government is abandoning the “not bullets” part of AMLO’s security strategy?
“There are traces of a change in tone toward organized crime, but it’s too early to call,” Falko Ernst, a security analyst, told AP.
“It seems unlikely that the Sheinbaum administration would risk a politically inconvenient, steady stream of violent imagery by betting on wholesale balazos [bullets]-only strategy,” he said.
The new administration may be more willing to confront “the most overt” power displays by criminal organizations. (Margarito Pérez Retana/Cuartoscuro)
However, Ernst added that the government may be more willing to confront “the most overt and brazen displays of power” by criminal organizations.
David Saucedo, another security analyst, has a different view.
“The hugs not bullets strategy ended some time ago,” he told AP.
The Associated Press reported that Saucedo pointed to “an increased number of high-level drug arrests and extraditions of suspects” to support his claim.
“The U.S. government pressured Andrés Manuel López Obrador to resume the capture of high-level drug lords,” Saucedo said.
Presenting the government’s new security strategy last month, Security Minister Omar García Harfuch said the neutralization of “generators of violence and criminal networks” was an objective, but he didn’t say security forces were prepared to use a heavier hand to achieve it.
Instead, he emphasized the importance of other crime-fighting tools, such as intelligence.
What has Sheinbaum said about her government’s security strategy?
Although her government is perpetuating virtually all of AMLO’s policies as it seeks to build the “second story” of the so-called “fourth transformation” of Mexico, Sheinbaum “has studiously avoided using the ‘hugs, not bullets’ slogan popularized by her predecessor and mentor,” AP reported.
However, she has said on repeated occasions that her government won’t pursue the kind of militarized “war” against drug cartels that former president Felipe Calderón launched shortly after he took office in December 2006.
Those remarks appear to indicate that she doesn’t have any great appetite for increasing the use of force against criminal groups.
Sheinbaum spoke of the risks of using “firepower” to quell cartel infighting in Culiacán, though more than 1000 troops have been sent to the region in recent months. (Cuartoscuro)
After García outlined the national security strategy on Oct. 8, Sheinbaum declared that her government wasn’t seeking to carry out “extrajudicial executions,” and would use “prevention, intelligence and presence” of security forces to combat crime.
While she avoids using the “hugs, not bullets” slogan, it would appear unlikely that the president and commander in chief of Mexico’s armed forces would agree with claims that her government, in its first month in office, has shown it is prepared to use more force than its predecessor to combat the country’s notorious cartels.
A fuller picture of the government’s security strategy, and the extent to which it is prepared to use military and National Guard firepower to respond to Mexico’s many and varied security challenges, will only truly emerge in the months and years ahead.
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