I love going to the dentist…in Mexico

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August 26, 2024

Dentists in Mexico are modern, clean, efficient and friendly. With the high standards of professional care and ease of access, even difficult procedures are a breeze for patients. (Bel Woodhouse)

I realize it’s not just me: most people hate going to the dentist. And when people think Mexico plus healthcare, they ask the question: Is a Mexican dentist safe? Well, I can safely say that my experiences have been safe, caring, and relaxing. My dentist genuinely cares. He is warm, well educated, very professional, easy to get an appointment with, and I never have to wait.

One of life’s ickiest experiences isn’t scary anymore! In Mexico, I don’t dread it. My dental emergencies, both times, have been outstanding experiences. Now I understand why dental travel is a thing.

Dr. Poot was a consummate professional who made me feel immediately at ease. (Bel Woodhouse)

How much does dental work cost in Mexico?

Mexican dentists are very affordable and well-priced. Ask yourself this: How much does an annual checkup with your dentist cost where you live? To give you an idea of the affordability, I’ll give you an example. My emergency visit to the dentist a couple of months ago was US $26.

With a huge and painful swelling in my jaw, I knew I couldn’t put off a dentist visit any longer. I had to get an appointment— right away. I got one that afternoon. But that’s not the astonishing part. The astonishing part is that the visit was only 500 pesos (US $26). Yes, that’s total. 500 pesos for everything.

This included the consultation and dental x-rays, plus a second consultation with a specialist and a procedure that had to be done on the spot. I’ll spare you the details.

Suffice it to say it wasn’t a little thing we were dealing with. I was looking at two weeks of two types of antibiotics plus three antibiotic shots. Those were cheap too: a nurse at the pharmacy gave me the injection for 20 pesos, or about a dollar (fluctuating exchange rates be damned). After antibiotics, an extraction of the infected molar would have to happen.

Professional and caring

Even follow-up treatment is extremely affordable, with antibiotics and additional appointments simple and cheap to schedule. (Edgar Negrete/Cuartoscuro)

Like all of Mexican healthcare, the warmth of dental professionals is amazing. As is the state-of-the-art equipment. Sparkling-clean implements were laid out. But my favorite was the comfy reclining chair. I’m not joking, I almost had a nap while waiting for the local anesthesia to take effect.

My lovely dentist, Dr Poot (pronounced Pot), kept asking if I was okay. He put on soft music to help my nerves as I find that the dentist can be a bit of a stress trigger. Plus, I don’t mind sharing that when it comes to a big ouchie like this, I get a little scared. Both about the pain and the cost. Like most people who know they’re in for major dental work, I guess.

The whole visit was smooth sailing and stress-free. Afterward, at the pharmacy, it was the same thing. The nurse giving me an antibiotic injection at the pharmacy was very sweet, calling me “cariño,” and I didn’t feel a thing. It was the best injection I’ve ever had.

Major dental work wasn’t stressful

If you’re curious about the price for my molar extraction, it was 2000 pesos, $116 US. Now I know back home in Australia it would have been more like $1,000 dollars. Molars are the most expensive teeth to have taken out. But here in Mexico, this 2,000 pesos included everything. X-rays to see that the infection had gone down sufficiently. Along with the anesthetic and the extraction procedure.

The professionalism of the Mexican dental team really dispelled many of the negative stereotypes around Mexican dental care. (Edgar Negrete/Cuartoscuro)

As it turns out, it wasn’t easy. Fun fact: Human molars normally have two roots. My molar had three roots. So this extraction was not only going to take longer, but he had to work really hard to get it out. It was not a fun experience.

Even so, the whole thing took less than an hour, and I didn’t feel a thing. That in itself amazed me. While I lay back listening to soothing Spanish guitar, Dr Poot kept asking if I was alright. As if that was the most important thing. I must say, he’s the kindest dentist I’ve ever had.

Do I recommend a Mexican dentist?

Yes. I highly recommend Mexican dentists. If you’re worried about a Mexican dentist being safe, don’t be. They are caring, warm, professional, and genuinely care about your well-being. Reflecting on this whole experience, I can see why dental travel is on the rise. It’s a win-win. With the money you save, you can have a holiday while recovering. Even with a holiday, it is still probably cheaper than getting major dental work done in the US.

The warmth of the Mexican people makes them excellent healthcare professionals. They genuinely care. About you as a person and your comfort while being treated. This goes for specialists, doctors, dentists, and surgeons. I’ve lived in Mexico for eight years. During that time, I’ve had two trips to the dentist. Each time, the visits have been fantastic. So much so, that now I’m not scared to go to the dentist anymore. In fact, I love going to the dentist, in Mexico. I think I’d still be anxious back home, but here in Mexico, it’s great.

Mexico Correspondent for International Living, Bel is an experienced writer, author, photographer and videographer with 500+ articles published both in print and across digital platforms. Living in the Mexican Caribbean for over 7 years now she’s in love with Mexico and has no plans to go anywhere anytime soon.

The little philosopher with big ideas: Mafalda in Mexico

By

Monica Belot

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August 25, 2024

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Mafalda and Quino — How did a stereotypical family from the 1960s become an emblem of life in modern Mexico - and what does that say about the country? (Facebook)

I’ve seen her around Mexico, and you probably have too.

She’s a dark-haired six-year-old with a round face and expressive eyes. Though she’s typically spotted in a signature red dress and matching bow, she’s been known to change it up now and again. She’s almost a scribble in her visual simplicity. She has an aversion to soup and strong opinions on important world issues. A voice for the younger generations, she’s witty and insightful, with critical perspectives on adult society. She’s especially known for her rebellious spirit and fierce rejection of societal norms and expectations.

I’m referring to Mafalda, the comic book-turned-cartoon character beloved by generations of Mexicans, Latin American populations, and numerous others worldwide.

“Watch out! Irresponsible at work” is definitely a theme we can all get behind. (Facebook)

Created in 1964 by Argentine cartoonist Joaquín Salvador Lavado Tejón (better known as Quino), Mafalda began life as an advertising mascot for the appliance company Siam Di Tella. But she quickly outgrew her commercial roots, evolving into a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with audiences today. In Mexico, her popularity is comparable to that of Charlie Brown or Garfield, cementing her status as one of the Spanish-speaking world’s most iconic characters.

The birth of a pint-sized icon

At first glance, Mafalda appears to be a typical six-year-old girl from a middle-class Argentine family of the 1960s. Her father works a mundane office job and her mother tends to the home. At the same time, her relationship with her younger brother Guille reflects the typical mix of sibling rivalry and affection. The family dynamic embodies societal norms of the time, but beneath this veneer of normalcy lies Mafalda’s sharp wit and a deeply inquisitive mind that constantly challenges the status quo.

While Mafalda engages in typical childhood activities — school and playing with friends — her innocently presented perspectives often have a philosophical bent. Throughout her daily life, Mafalda reflects on various social issues, expressing her thoughts through musings and humorous observations. An avid reader, she stays informed about current events, which fuels her desire for justice and change.

Contrasting opinions: Mafalda’s social circle

Mafalda’s world is populated by a colorful cast of characters who serve as contrasts for her progressive ideals. There’s Susanita, the materialistic girl who dreams of landing a wealthy husband and having lots of babies. Mafalda’s interactions with her friend frequently involve her challenging Susanita’s views on marriage, beauty standards, and the role of women in society. When Susanita expresses her desire to marry a wealthy man, Mafalda questions her motivations and encourages her to pursue her own goals. “Para qué ser mamá? No es la única meta en la vida.” (“Why be a mom? It’s not the only goal in life.”)

Themes of exploitation, masculinity and religion remain as topical as ever, keeping Mafalda ever relevant. (Facebook)

Manolito, the son of a shopkeeper, is obsessed with money and business. Mafalda’s and Manolito’s debates about capitalism, consumerism, and social inequality are recurring themes. In one exchange, Mafalda argues that Manolito’s family’s wealth is not earned through hard work alone but rather through the exploitation of the working class. “No se puede ser rico sin hacerle daño a otros.” (“You can’t be rich without harming others.”)

Felipe, the romantic daydreamer and the most introspective of Mafalda’s friends, provides a foil to Mafalda’s pragmatism. He often serves as a sounding board for her philosophical musings. Their conversations delve into existential questions about life, death, and the nature of humanity. In one strip, Mafalda asks Felipe if he believes in God, leading to a thoughtful discussion about faith and the meaning of life. “Crees que hay vida en otros planetas? Yo creo que sí, pero también creo que no hay vida en este.”(“Do you think there is life on other planets? I believe there is, but I also believe there is no life here.”)

Mafalda’s group of friends, their stories, personalities and perspectives represent the differing societal perspectives of the time. Through their discussions, Mafalda creator Quino addresses themes such as capitalism, gender roles, societal expectations, immigration, and political ideologies. The characters’ differing viewpoints allow readers to explore complex topics through the lens of childhood innocence and humor, while also provoking thought and reflection on many of the issues still relevant today.

Enduring wisdom in Mexico & beyond

In Mexico and across Latin America, Mafalda has become a symbol of resistance and social commentary. Her image can be found on everything from T-shirts to protest signs, with her witty observations shared widely on social media. In Buenos Aires, statues of Mafalda and her friends draw fans eager to snap selfies with this pint-sized revolutionary.

Even today, statues to Mafalda can be found across her adoptive nation of Mexico. (Alan Concepción Cuenca/Facebook)

What makes Mafalda’s popularity in Mexico particularly fascinating is how her perspectives align with Mexican culture, even today. Though born in Argentina, her concerns about social justice, equality, and humanity’s future strike a universal chord. In a country struggling with complex social and political issues, Mafalda’s views are particularly relevant.

“The problem is that there are more people interested than interesting people,” Mafalda quips in one strip, addressing modern society’s self-absorption. Such observations feel as fitting in 2024 Mexico City as they did in 1960s Buenos Aires.

Mafalda’s challenges to gender norms resonate strongly in contemporary Mexico. As the country wrestles with machismo and women’s equality, Mafalda’s rejection of traditional female roles feels particularly relevant. Mafalda also advocates for work-life balance, often asking why life must revolve around work.

Her concern for peace and social justice strikes a chord in a nation familiar with violence and inequality. “Everywhere they bake beans, but nobody dares to strangle the maitre’d,” Mafalda observes, highlighting the gap between acknowledging problems and taking action. It’s a sentiment many Mexicans, frustrated with known corruption and systemic issues, relate to. She adds, “I like people that say what they think. But above all, I like people who do what they say.”

Mafalda has even found her way into Mexican schools. (Facebook)

Beyond social commentary, Mafalda has become an educational tool in Mexico, her comics are used in schools to teach critical thinking and social awareness. Her sophisticated vocabulary and complex ideas, presented accessibly, introduce young readers to important concepts.

Mafalda Today

Mafalda’s comic strip run ended in 1973, though she may be poised for a resurgence. Netflix recently announced plans to develop new content based on the character, introducing her to a whole new generation of viewers.

As Mexico and the world grapple with issues of inequality, climate change, and political upheaval, Mafalda’s blend of optimism and pragmatism offers a voice of reason in a complex world.

“Wouldn’t it be more progressive to ask where we are going to go, instead of where we are going to stop?” Mafalda asks in one strip. It’s a question that could apply to any contemporary issues, from technological advancement to social change. By encouraging her readers to think critically, and empathetically and dream big, Mafalda continues to inspire generations of Mexicans to imagine a better world.

So next time when you encounter Mafalda, perhaps she’ll remind you to keep questioning, keep dreaming, and never stop working towards a better tomorrow. Just don’t try to make her eat any soup.

Monica Belot is a writer, researcher, strategist and adjunct professor at Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she teaches in the Strategic Design & Management Program. Splitting her time between NYC and Mexico City, where she resides with her naughty silver labrador puppy Atlas, Monica writes about topics spanning everything from the human experience to travel and design research. Follow her varied scribbles on Medium at https://medium.com/@monicabelot.

MND Where to Live in Mexico 2024 Guide: Bajío Trio

By

Greg Custer

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August 25, 2024

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Queretaro city, MND Where to Live in Mexico 2024 Guide: Bajío Trio — Colonial history and a high-tech future collide in today's three cities, as we take a look at where to live in the Bajío region. (Shutterstock)

This week in the MND Where to Live in Mexico 2024 Guide: Bajío Trio, we are moving inland to explore three central Mexican locations that don’t get a lot of coverage in the “where to live” online ecosystem.

San Luis Potosí, Querétaro, and Aguascalientes might be the three largest cities you’ve never heard of. These eponymous cities are by no means “unknown,” having a combined population exceeding 6.5 million inhabitants. Two cities are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the three states combined have 17 Pueblos Mágicos. Each has traits particular to their central role in Mexico’s Spanish colonial legacy and 21st century economy. San Luis Potosí and Querétaro share a border, while Aguascalientes is a landlocked island of sorts, as well as one of Mexico’s smallest states by population and landmass. Another similarity is a seasonally moderate high plateau climate (temperate, semi-arid; more arid in northerly San Luis Potosí). The temperature may spike higher in May-June and lower in December, but stable, low-humidity highland living is the norm.

Colonial charms abound in the area -and none are more iconic than Querétaro’s aqueduct. (Turismo del estado de Querétaro)

When it comes to connectivity (one of our six criteria in the Mexico Living matrix), Querétaro leads this trio of places. Its international airport offers more choice for US and Mexico destinations (though still limited), when compared to Aguascalientes or San Luis Potosí. It’s also a 2.5 hour drive to Mexico City (120 miles) and may soon feature passenger rail service to the capital.

Querétaro also leads this trio when it comes to a booming economy. While Aguascalientes is an automobile manufacturing town (Nissan) and San Luis Potosí carries its BMW pedigree, Querétaro’s economy is mega-diverse. Central to this success is the “Triple Helix Model,” a framework of close cooperation between government, industry, and academia. Automobiles, aerospace and appliances dominate. Querétaro also leads in medical care. One 2021 ranking gives Querétaro six of Mexico’s top 10 hospitals. It’s also a great location for box-store shopping, should such things matter to you.

Aguascalientes

Capital of the state bearing the same name, Aguascalientes (altitude 6,200 feet) is today a burgeoning commercial and industrial center in the heart of a state known for its brave bullfighters, fine wines (a four hundred year tradition), gentle climate and relaxed provincial character. It is Mexico’s second smallest state in terms of area; however, it enjoys an important commercial position thanks to the factories that ring the city that produce a good portion of Mexico’s high-tech manufacturing output.

City attractions include thermal springs (Ojocaliente, Balneario Valladolid), museums, green spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets, and the state’s annual fair. The Feria de San Marcos, dating back to 1604, is held each April-May and is one of the world’s ten largest agricultural fairs. There are dozens of distinct “barrios” surrounding the urban core – too many to include here. Other than the city’s foreigner, managerial manufacturing workforce, you won’t find many foreign-born retirees or remote workers in Aguascalientes. This can feel either refreshing (with very affordable home rental costs to boot) or isolating, depending on your desire for an authentically Mexican experience.

San Luis Potosí

Continuing due east is the city-state of San Luis Potosí (170 km). This vast state stretches across the windswept, sunbaked plains of north central Mexico, refreshingly cooler in its Veracruz-facing Sierra Huasteca tropical highlands. Its importance in Mexican history spans four centuries of influence, making its capital city of the same name (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) a city of renown.

Mexico has too many “best kept secret” places to explore, but the state capital is certainly one of them. A mining boom in the late 16th century was followed by an era when San Luis Potosí assumed the role of Mexico’s most important northern city, whose domain once stretched from Louisiana to New Mexico. For much of the colonial era, its mining and ranching wealth bestowed on the city many elaborate neoclassic and baroque public buildings, mansions and churches. It has one of Latin America’s longest pedestrian thoroughfares (Calzada de Guadalupe, stretching some 3 kilometers) and Mexico’s second largest urban park.

The historic center, beautifully illuminated at night, features tiered esplanades, several handsome plazas, flower-filled parks, and an active cultural scene. Three fine museums (Federico Silva, Leonora Carrington, Museo Nacional de la Mascara), concerts, film, and theaters (Museo Francisco Cossío, Teatro de la Ciudad, Teatro de la Paz) keep locals and a smattering of foreigners engaged socially. The dining and nightlife here are more varied than in many colonial cities.

The surrounding state’s topography is similarly diverse, due to the Sierra Madre Oriental range that runs through the eastern part of the state. Also running north-south is the Sierra Gorda range (part of Querétaro state), creating a myriad of valleys and plains. Much of the state’s pre-Hispanic and colonial influence can still be seen today in the towns and villages of this region (there are six Pueblos Magicos, including two of Mexico’s most bizarre — abandoned mining town of Real de Catorce and whimsical jungle sculpture garden at Xilitla).

Querétaro

When it comes to Mexico living, Querétaro State might just be the hardest to pronounce (“que-REH-tah-roh”) and easiest to embrace. It earns a very solid “4” on our 1-5 scale. Growth has diminished, in some ways, the city’s provincial town character but also bestowed the city with one of Mexico’s highest living standards and best-educated populations.

A commercial center of nearly one million inhabitants, Querétaro lies at the junction of two major interstate highways, routes 57 and 45 (construction delays are endemic of late). Located only 220 kilometres from Mexico City, Querétaro has become a satellite of sorts for the Capital. Several large manufacturing plants have relocated to the city’s outskirts, and thousands of businessmen commute between the two cities.

The city has preserved its historic downtown and has taken steps to beautify many areas. The Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, as an exceptional example of a colonial town whose layout symbolizes its multi-ethnic population. It is also endowed with a wealth of outstanding buildings, notably from the 17th and 18th centuries. Querétaro holds several treasures, and a friendly sense of civic pride prevails. The historic city center is filled with lovely colonial mansions, immaculate pedestrian walkways and quaint plazas little changed since colonial days. Its 18th century Acueducto of 74 towering arches (some standing 100 feet tall) are dramatically lit at night, stretching for miles across a broad valley on the City’s eastern edge.

Living here means finding an outlying, suburban neighborhoods of El Refugio, Jurica, Juriquilla and El Pueblito are all excellent options. If that doesn’t appeal, then try a surrounding hillside suburb or a spot in the historic city centre — which is refreshingly quiet for a city this size. More central living can be found in the Jardines de las Haciendas, Carretas, Alamos, and Campanario areas. There’s housing variety and general affordability, along with some choice assisted-living options (Spanish chain Ballesol is one of Mexico’s best options). Expats are scattered across this landscape or living in “compound-like” gated communities, so it will take some effort to connect with other English speakers, though the opportunities are there for those who seek them.

One blogger describes living here (compared to, say Guadalajara) this way: “Querétaro is a button-down corporate town, where people work for others and have the more conservative lifestyle that (sic) dictates. I think this tamps down the exuberance I’ve grown to love elsewhere in Mexico. Locals are friendly and educated, but readily admit to being more reserved than their fellow countrymen.”

Sounds pretty good to me.

The ratings

A full breakdown of our rating system can be found here.

What did we get right? What do you disagree with? Let us know in the comments.

You can see more of our Where to Live in Mexico 2024 series here, including ratings for Yucatán, Oaxaca, Quintana Roo, the Baja California peninsula, Jalisco and a Pacific trio of beachside cities.

Author Greg Custer lives in Mexico. He’s worked for over 40 years in international tourism, educating travel advisors around the world about Mexico and other Latin American destinations. He helps folks explore Mexico for living at www.mexicoforliving.com.

The numbers behind the Los Cabos tourism trends of 2024

By

Chris Sands

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August 25, 2024

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Tourists in Los Cabos — With visitors numbers climbing ever higher, Chris Sands take a dive into the real figures behind Los Cabos' tourism data. (Los Cabos Tourism Board)

For the past three years, tourism in Los Cabos has been like an arrow shooting straight up. That trend has applied to costs, with the asking prices for everything from hotel rooms to restaurant entrées rising inexorably. It has also applied to the number of vacationers visiting Baja California Sur’s southernmost municipality.

Thus, the big question has been: how long can this continue? Eventually, one presumes, some tourists will balk at the higher prices, preventing record-setting visitation numbers at the end of each calendar year.

Los Cabos’ luxury hotels continue to pull in visitors from all over the world. (Grand Velas)

With the release of data for the first six months of 2024 by the Los Cabos Tourism Board (Fiturca), it’s possible to take a more nuanced look at the tourism statistics. Yes, hotel rates are higher than a year ago, and people are still visiting in droves, but not everything is at an all-time high. Decreases can be seen in some areas for the first time since the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021.

Higher room rates haven’t deterred tourists from Los Cabos

The number of visitors flying into Los Cabos has risen each year, from 2.8 million in 2021 to 3.3 million in 2022 and a record 3.86 million in 2023. Simultaneously, the average daily rate of the region’s hotel rooms has climbed as well, reaching US $417 in 2022, $452 by 2023 and climbing even higher to $517 in 2024.

The correlation between these two statistics suggests visitors are unfazed by room rate price hikes. The numbers in 2024 confirm it. Occupancy percentages for Los Cabos hotels are at 76% this year, slightly better than the 70% achieved in 2022 and 2023.

Looking for budget-friendly travel? Choose your Los Cabos resort location carefully

Interestingly, average daily room rates fluctuate significantly depending on where the accommodations are located – at least based on Firtuca’s latest figures for that statistic . Resorts in the Tourist Corridor connecting cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo commanded an average room rate of US $626 in 2023, while rooms in San José del Cabo proper averaged $383, and those in Cabo San Lucas “only” $316.

Why are Tourist Corridor-based hotel rooms so much more expensive on average? This 20-mile coastal corridor is home to many of the most luxurious properties in the Los Cabos municipality, including exclusive properties like One&Only Palmilla, Las Ventanas al Paraíso, Montage Los Cabos, Esperanza, and Chileno Bay Resort & Residences. Cabo San Lucas, meanwhile, is the site of many of the region’s best budget-friendly hotels.

Fewer domestic travelers are visiting Los Cabos

The total number of passengers who flew into the area through May this year was 1.64 million, a figure down slightly from a year ago. But the reason wasn’t a drop in international visitors. Their numbers have been up, albeit by a fraction of a percent. Rather, domestic travelers accounted for the slight decrease in arrivals.

A little over 544,000 people visited Los Cabos from within Mexico through May, 7.1% less than did so during the same time frame last year. This could suggest a distaste by some Mexicans for the higher hotel rates – Los Cabos, famously, is the most expensive destination in the country. On the other hand, this could be an entirely predictable slide after massive visitation numbers by domestic travelers in 2023. Last year, for example, domestic passenger numbers were up 34.8% in January, 30.1% in February, 27.6% in March, 21.4% in April and 14% in May. Those incredible numbers simply weren’t sustainable.

Despite more international flights, most tourists hail from U.S. or Mexico

Los Cabos is easier to reach than ever, with flights now available from 30 cities in the U.S., 16 in Mexico, 11 in Canada and two in Europe. The European markets — Frankfurt and Madrid — are an important addition in terms of connectivity but don’t be deceived: the overwhelming majority of tourists coming to Los Cabos in 2024 fly from North American destinations, with nearly 56% of flights originating in the U.S. and 38% from Mexico.

Los Cabos International Airport now sees more international routes than ever – but is anyone actually traveling from Europe? (Trip Support)

These numbers are even more remarkable given that a few select destinations provide most of the traffic. Nearly half of all U.S. visitors fly from airports in California or Texas, with Mexico City the most common debarkation point for domestic travelers.

Cruise ship visits and passenger numbers are down this year

The last two years have been banner ones for the Cabo San Lucas cruise ship economy, as the Land’s End city welcomed 226 ships bringing 540,773 visitors in 2022 and 236 ships carrying a staggering 735,686 passengers in 2023. This year to date has not been nearly as good, with 50 fewer ships visiting through the first four months relative to the same period in 2023.

However, these numbers are not indicative of a long-term trend, at least according to a well-placed source, who credited last year’s robust numbers in part to the slow recovery of other cruise destinations from the COVID-19 pandemic earlier in the decade. Thus, ships not normally dedicated to Mexican Riviera or Cabo San Lucas cruises were rerouted in 2023, benefitting the local market. The good news for Cabo San Lucas is that despite the decline so far in 2024, over 257,000 cruise ship passengers have already visited, and 2025 is expected to be even better.

Visitor projections for the remainder of 2024 and what they mean

Projecting forward, visitor numbers should be close to, if not slightly better than in 2023. Fiturca expects more than a million more visitors from the U.S. to arrive by air before the end of 2024, with nearly 900,000 scheduled from within Mexico. Add that 1.98 million expected airline passengers to the 1.64 that arrived through April and the 302,000 in May and you get 3.93 million total, a number slightly above the 3.86 million who flew in last year.

There’s still plenty of time to buy tickets, too, so the recent streak of record-setting annual totals in Los Cabos looks poised to continue.

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.

Taste of Mexico: Carnitas

By

María Meléndez

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August 24, 2024

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Carnitas tacos are a real taste of Mexico — Vegetarians look away: The meatiest way to enjoy your pork is described inside. (Inspired taste)

I want to begin this article by apologizing to all those who do not eat meat for any reason. Please know that you have our deepest admiration, and thanks to you, the world is indeed a better place. This article will express my love for meat, but I will also provide some relevant facts about an essential ingredient in Mexican cuisine that truly gives us our identity: pork. So please, stay with us just this one.

Pork in the Americas

Carnitas tacos — The porkiest pork in all of Mexico. (Serious Foodie)

Pork was introduced to the American continent in 1493 during Christopher Columbus’s second expedition. On that occasion, he arrived in what is now the Dominican Republic and Haiti with eight pigs.

Various subsequent expeditions, such as those made by the Spanish, French, and English, spread different varieties of pigs throughout the continent. Today, from Argentina to Canada, pork has played a significant role in feeding people. Each country and region has developed their own recipes and ways of enjoying this delicacy. For example, I’m thinking of a plate of pulled pork with a bun on the side and my mouth is starting to water.

Carnitas!

I don’t want to overwhelm you with a long list. I’d like to discuss a simple yet delicious dish: carnitas.

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A post shared by Mexico News Daily (@mexiconewsdaily)

The preparation is quite simple. Lard is melted in a large pot. Once it’s liquid (but not boiling), the cleaned and cubed pork is added — along with all the other parts of the pig, because in this country nothing goes to waste. Then, orange juice, a bulb of garlic, a variety of herbs, and salt are added. Some places also add Coca-Cola (secretly the most Mexican ingredient of them all) for flavor and color, and condensed milk to soften the meat. This mixture is left to cook for 3 hours or more until it becomes crispy and golden on the outside, and tender and pink on the inside.

When the carnitas are ready, you gather your family or friends. When everyone is at the table, put the carnitas at the center accompanied by a bunch of tortillas, limes, salsas, chopped cilantro, chopped onions, and pickled jalapeños. With all the confidence and informality the occasion allows, you dive into the tortillas and start making your taco. Grab your tortilla, carefully select your most desired pieces of carnitas, put salsa or jalapeños, cilantro, and onion and squeeze a lime. The lime juice will bring together all the flavors of your taco. Finally, lovingly close the tortilla and “provecho.”

The first Mexican dish?

Carnitas can be found all over the country, but the best ones are in the central states of Mexico. Michoacán is first, followed by Guanajuato, Estado de México, and Hidalgo. They all claim to be the originators and undoubtedly have the best recipes. Carnitas emerged almost simultaneously in these states, but there are no documents to prove who was the first to prepare and eat carnitas as we know them today.

P.S. Don’t you love the unsettling nature of our logos? A cheerful pig inside a burning pot. Logically, this should discourage consumption, not encourage it. (Carnitas El Eden)

The belief that carnitas are the first mestizo dish because they combine Spanish pork and pre-Hispanic tortillas is incorrect. According to early chronicles of the Spanish conquest, a banquet took place where pigs from Cuba and cornbread (how Spaniards referred to tortillas) were consumed separately. Despite this, hundreds of years later, in the book “Cocina Mexicana” (1967) by the Mexican writer Salvador Novo, he mentioned that carnitas tacos were served during this banquet. I have a deep love and respect for the writer, but it seems like he never read — or at least paid attention to — the chronicle as it does not mention carnitas tacos being served. This misconception has persisted to this day, and recently a senator urged people on social media not to eat carnitas tacos to avoid celebrating our Spanish heritage. Waaaaaaay too much, if you ask me.

In any case, whenever you encounter carnitas and an image like the one below, I highly recommend trying a carnitas taco. You’ll thank me later.

María Meléndez is a Mexico City food blogger and influencer.

I am not a foodie — could Mexico News Daily turn me into one?

By

Travis Bembenek

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August 24, 2024

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Travis Bembenek points to prickly pear fruit — Mexico News Daily CEO Travis Bembenek is ready to explore more of the exotic flavors of Mexico with the expanded MND Food & Drink section. (Courtesy)

Everyone loves food, but not all of us appreciate it in the same way. Some are far more adventurous than others, and as a result, are willing to try new foods anytime they have the opportunity to do so.

I am most definitely not one of those types of people. Every week, when shopping at my local fruit and vegetable vendor here in San Miguel de Allende, I tend to buy the exact same things week after week. I overlook dozens of exotic-looking fruits and vegetables that I see others eagerly picking up.

Why don’t I buy them? I’m not exactly sure. I grew up in rural Wisconsin, an area not exactly known for its variety and diversity of food. Many of us Wisconsinites still feel that beer, cheese curds, brats, and corn make up the four food groups!

Throughout my professional career, I traveled extensively around the world — what better time to try new foods than with local hosts and on a corporate expense account? But alas, I was always the person at the table saying “no way!” to trying the chicken feet and duck tongue in China, the odd-looking sausage in Germany, the exotic sushi in Japan, the weird-looking cut of meat in Argentina, or the chapulines (grasshoppers) and ant eggs here in Mexico.

I traveled so much to China that the first words I learned in Mandarin were “white rice” and “Coca-Cola” — which is what I mostly survived on during my trips there. I once took a taxi for 90 minutes each way from a hotel in rural China to a Pizza Hut in Shanghai. I am not proud of this story, but I might have died from starvation had I not taken that taxi!

As I reflect back on my hesitation to try so many exciting and exotic foods over the years, I think the main reason was that I just didn’t feel like I understood what I was being encouraged to eat. Traveling on an airplane almost every week made me very nervous about the risk of getting sick, and so I rarely, if ever, tried anything different.

Well, it’s time to change. Life is too short to not try and experiment more.

And with that confessional-style introduction, I am the unlikely person to introduce to you MND’s significant expansion of our Food & Drink section.

Mexico is a world leader and exporter in food and beverages — and for good reason. The country has over a thousand years of culinary history, and the alcoholic beverages made here are increasingly being discovered and appreciated around the world. There are enough fruits and vegetables and insects and meats and corn varieties to experiment with and try to last a lifetime.

With that in mind, Mexico News Daily has decided to “double down” and expand our Food & Drink section to bring you exciting new content and formats.

You will find recipes to make typical Mexican dishes, as well as ones that use Mexican ingredients to spice up other favorites.

We will bring you the Taste of Mexico series each week to educate and inform you about a Mexican food or drink that you likely have seen, but have been afraid to try.

We will publish reviews of the top new restaurants, chefs and food events throughout the country.

We will bring you insight into Mexico’s flourishing wine industry to help you choose which wines to try and which vineyards to visit.

We will be doing this in a way that is entertaining and accessible, with a variety of new multimedia formats combining articles and videos.

We have hired several new writers — from foodie expats who have lived in Mexico for years to young, hip locals passionate about their food, culture and traditions.

I once read that “it is impossible to not have a great time while eating in a Mexican restaurant,” and I think the same applies to eating in Mexico in general.

So let’s have some fun, some laughs, and learn about all of the awesome flavors of Mexico.

We are just getting started and have lots more coming, so stay tuned and thank you for being a subscriber to MND! We are honored to be your front-row seat to Mexico.

Travis Bembenek is the CEO of Mexico News Daily and has been living, working or playing in Mexico for over 27 years.

Think pink: Why Calvillo is Aguascalientes’ most famous town

By

Meagan Drillinger

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August 24, 2024

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Monumental letters with the name of Calvillo. — Calvillo, the self-declared Guava Capital of the World, is a Magical Town full of culture and tradition. (Meagan Drillinger)

One of my favorite ways to explore Mexico is by visiting its Pueblos Mágicos. These “Magical Towns” are smaller cities and villages that have been incorporated into a federal tourism initiative for their cultural value. While the area around my adopted home of Puerto Vallarta is peppered with beautiful Magical Towns, these often feel overrun and overwhelmed, thanks to a growing amount of tourism.

But not all Pueblos Mágicos are on the mass tourism trail. There are nearly 200 scattered across Mexico, and most fly below the international tourist radar. Calvillo, Aguascalientes, for example, located just 52 kilometers from Aguascalientes city, is a refreshing change of pace.

Street in Calvillo with decorative umbrellas. — One of the many picturesque streets that highlight Calvillo’s magical town status. (Meagan Drillinger)

What sets Calvillo apart

The pace of life in Calvillo is slower than the Magical Towns near to where I live. Its lack of international tourism means that things move with character and tradition. It’s a slice of real living Mexico, rather than one that feels performative, complete with cobblestone streets, 19th-century architecture, leafy plazas and the faint scent of sweet guavas lingering in the air.

Calvillo is easy to reach for a day trip, but I suggest staying a night or two to take your time here. Cupped by the Sierra Fría range, Calvillo is tucked within a small valley. Historic streets are flanked by colorful facades while papel picado flutters overhead.

Calvillo was founded in 1771, and evidence of its Spanish influence can be seen all across town. The main square is home to the stunning Templo del Señor del Salitre, a beautiful 200-year-old baroque-style church. The church is a place of pilgrimage for many, who come to pay their respects to the Señor del Salitre, the town’s patron saint. Nearby, the municipal palace is another example of the town’s Spanish-influenced architecture. With its arches and balconies, this elegant building serves as the seat of the town’s government.

But what really puts Calvillo on the map is its reputation as the Guava Capital of the World. Between Calvillo and neighboring Zacatecas, there are more than 4,500 guava producers in the region. More than a cash crop, guava — called “guayaba” in Spanish — is deeply ingrained in the local culture, and you’ll find it in everything from sweets and pastries to drinks and even cosmetics.

Basket of guavas. — While Calvillo has beautiful colonial architecture and a pleasant climate, it’s guavas that really set the town apart. (Sakurai Midori/Wikimedia)

The Guava Capital of the World

You can get to the grassroots of Calvillo by visiting its guava orchards for a guided tour and tasting. Or, you can cut to the chase and head to the town’s many sweets shops. You can find a few of them on Calle 5 de Mayo, like Don Emiliano, where you can indulge in guava-based treats. Ate de guayaba is a sticky, sweet spread that pairs perfectly with cheese, while guava rolls and jelly bake the fruit into breakfast treats. Wash it down with agua de guayaba, a lightly sweetened guava-infused water, or kick it up a notch with an artisanal guava beer.

Beyond snacks and sweets, Calvillo’s culinary scene is a festival of flavors, with guava playing a starring role. The town’s restaurants and street vendors serve a variety of traditional food, like birria de guayaba, made with goat meat, seasoned with spices and served with a side of guava salsa. You can even try guava mole at the pocket-sized Alebrije restaurant.

The annual Guayaba Fair is a celebration of Calvillo’s beloved fruit, drawing visitors from all over the region. Held in December, this lively festival features music, dance and an abundance of guava-based foods and drinks. Unlike the festivals in more touristy towns, the Guayaba Fair retains a sense of community and tradition, with events that are more focused on local customs than catering to visitors.

If you’ve had your fill of guava, you can try fruit-free dishes, like tacos de guisados, which are soft corn tortillas filled with a variety of stews, like chicharrón, picadillo or rajas. For dessert, you’d be remiss to pass on the pastel de guayaba, a soft guava cake heaped with creamy guava frosting.

Pastel de guayaba from Calvillo — Pastel de guayaba, or guava cake, is a typical Calvillo dessert. (Photo.MarioVG / CC BY-SA 4.0)

Into the mountains

But Calvillo’s treasures extend beyond the guava trees into the Sierra Fría. Surrounded by rugged natural beauty, this is one of the best places in Mexico for outdoor adventure. The Presa de Malpaso, for example, is a gorgeous reservoir just a short drive from town. The glassy, clear water is perfect for kayaking or fishing. The Cañón de Jaltiche is webbed with hiking trails leading to dramatic mountain views. You’ll also find the El Tepozán Natural Park, which is perfect for a stroll amid colorful flowers and wildlife.

In town, you can hike up to the Santa Cruz de Calvillo monument, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Crowned with a large cross, the hilltop has a sweeping view of the surrounding mountains. The hike to the top is lined with pathways that follow the Stations of the Cross. At the summit, a revitalized welcome center features a smattering of restaurants and art galleries. Plan your hike for close to sunset so you can watch the sky transform with color as day melts into evening.

On the way back down, stop by Chuy Bombas Bar for a Calvillo legend and their signature drink: the Bomba. The deceptively deadly concoction is made with grenadine, red wine, brandy Bacardi white rum, vodka, lime juice and Squirt. You’ve been warned. This bare-bones cantina puts on no frills and no fuss. It’s a warm, welcoming watering hole where you’ll find residents gathering for good conversation and zero pretense.

The bottom line about Calvillo is that it’s a town living its history every day. As much as I love the Magical Towns in the more touristy areas of Mexico, there’s something special about venturing into the unknown. The streets are absent of souvenir stalls and chain restaurants. Instead, you’ll find local shops, markets and eateries that cater to those who live here. Calvillo’s historic architecture is not just a backdrop for Instagram photos but a testament to the town’s rich heritage, and its people take pride in their town’s traditions and are eager to share them with those who take the time to visit.

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.

Miraculous Mexican memes to maft the soul

By

Sarah DeVries

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August 24, 2024

2

Miraculous Mexican memes — What does top MND memeologist Sarah DeVries have in store for us this week? Let's find out.

The time has come, my friends! If you’ve been patiently waiting for your bimonthly memes, fear not: they have arrived.

Trying to learn Spanish? Humor is as good as anything else. And plus, now when you speak Spanish you can be funny! I don’t know about you, but that’s top motivation for me personally.

Enjoy!

Meme translation: “Finally, a little peace.”
“Mars is flat.”

What does it meme? Think you can head to Mars for a bit of reprieve from the silliness? Think again.

If you ask me, the internet generally and social media specifically are at fault for all these stupid ideas floating around. Think about it: before, if you wanted to publish something, you had to get it approved by some sort of publication or publishing house. Nowadays, if you’re good at convincing people that you’re knowledgeable and you have an internet connection, the sky is pretty much the limit!

Meme translation: “Objective: go running in the mornings.

Obstacle: running is for cowards.”

What does it meme? Why yes, that is quite the predicament. What to do, what to do?

I think we all know the answer to this one. It’s to show your bravery by sleeping in and then scrolling your social media feeds in bed until you have to get up to pee… right?

Meme translation: “If you can’t help, get in the way. The important thing is that you’re seen participating.”

What does it meme? It does seem that lots of people take this advice, doesn’t it? And who can blame them? Sometimes, if you want to keep your job, you just need to look busy.

So get in there, champ, and stand around, preferably near where something’s getting done.

Meme translation: “Only God and the all-seeing neighbor in front can judge me.”

What does it meme? I don’t know if you heard, but Mexicans have a certain reputation for being ”chismosos” — “gossipy. Actually, I’m sure you’ve heard.

If you know how people are, you might as well have a sense of humor about it. And if you’re really feeling expansive, don’t hold back – put on a good show!

Meme translation: “Don’t forget: use the market and capital to satisfy the people.
Capitalists: ‘Use the people and the market to satisfy capital, got it.’”

What does it meme? Sigh. This almost seems like not a joke, right? No wonder “evil” and “capitalist” are so often used in the same sentence.

When I see particularly egregious examples — and there are a lot of them — I often think to myself: what do people think the purpose of capitalism is?

Surely we wouldn’t have all agreed to it if we thought it would lead to, literally, working lots and lots of people to the bone to produce a handful of Elon Musks.

Sarah DeVries is a writer and translator based in Xalapa, Veracruz. She can be reached through her website, sarahedevries.substack.com.

A ‘seedy situation’: US border agents seize US $5M of meth disguised as watermelons

By

MND Staff

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August 23, 2024

0

Meth-filled watermelons in large containers — The agents discovered nearly 5,000 pounds of methamphetamine disguised as watermelons. (U.S. CBP)

United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently encountered what it described as a “seedy situation” at the Mexico-U.S. border: phony, meth-filled fake watermelons hidden among a shipment of bona fide watermelons.

The CBP said in a statement that officers at the Otay Mesa port of entry between San Diego and Tijuana seized more than US $5 million worth of methamphetamine “disguised and concealed within a shipment of watermelons.”

The incident occurred last Friday when a 29-year-old man arrived at the Otay Mesa Commercial Facility in a tractor trailer. The driver was “seeking entry into the United States from Mexico, hauling a shipment manifested for watermelons,” CBP said.

The man and his cargo were sent to a secondary inspection area, where the watermelon shipment was offloaded for further examination.

“Upon careful inspection, officers uncovered 1,220 packages wrapped in paper, disguised as watermelons within the shipment,” CBP said.

“The contents of the packages were tested and identified as methamphetamine, with a total weight of 4,587 pounds [2,080 kg]. The estimated street value of the drugs exceeds $5 million dollars,” the agency said.

A meth-filled fake watermelon — The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol reported on an unusual drug bust of US $5 million worth of methamphetamine disguised as watermelons. (U.S. CBP)

CBP officers seized the meth and the tractor-trailer, while the driver “was turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation,” CBP said.

In the past, smugglers have attempted to hide drugs in shipments of a range of different produce including strawberries and onions. Earlier this month, CBP officers at Otay Mesa found almost 300 kilograms of meth hidden in a shipment of celery.

Smugglers have tried to conceal narcotics in even more inventive ways, including by inserting fentanyl pills into tamales and filling tequila bottles with liquid meth.

Rosa E. Hernandez, Port Director at Otay Mesa, said she was “incredibly proud of our team for their exceptional work over the past few weeks in uncovering sophisticated and diverse smuggling methods.”

“As drug cartels continue to evolve their smuggling techniques, we will continue finding new and better ways to prevent these dangerous drugs and other contraband from entering the country,” she said.

Mexican cartels manufacture methamphetamine and other synthetic drugs in clandestine labs.

The navy last month dismantled one such lab in Sinaloa, confiscating at the same time 3,920 kilograms of material presumed to be methamphetamine along with 28,600 liquid liters and 2,250 kg of precursor chemicals.

Mexico News Daily

AMLO and Sheinbaum rebuke US ambassador after judicial reform criticism

By

MND Staff

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August 23, 2024

28

President López Obrador speaks angrily as he rebukes US Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar for 'interfering' in Mexican judicial reform — The president characterized Salazar's criticism of his judicial reform proposal as "imprudent" and disrespectful. (Lopezobrador.org.mx)

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador rebuked United States Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar on Friday, asserting that the diplomat’s statement on the federal government’s judicial reform proposal was “unfortunate, imprudent” and demonstrated a “lack of respect.”

At his morning press conference, López Obrador also read out a “note of protest” sent to the United States Embassy in Mexico over what the government called Salazar’s “meddlesome declaration.”

In a statement on Thursday, the ambassador declared that the proposed judicial reform — which seeks to allow citizens to directly elect judges — poses a threat to democracy in Mexico and the U.S.-Mexico trade relationship. He also said it would benefit drug cartels.

“I believe popular direct election of judges is a major risk to the functioning of Mexico’s democracy,” Salazar said.

“… I also think the debate over the direct election of judges … as well as the fierce politics if the elections for judges in 2025 and 2027 were to be approved, will threaten the historic trade relationship we have built, which relies on investors’ confidence in Mexico’s legal framework,” he added.

“Direct elections would also make it easier for cartels and other bad actors to take advantage of politically motivated and inexperienced judges,” Salazar said.

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar speaks at a podium — Ken Salazar said Thursday that the direct election of judges would put Mexico’s democracy at risk. (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro)

Asked about the statement, López Obrador told reporters that the federal government doesn’t accept “interference” in Mexico’s internal affairs.

“We don’t accept any representative of foreign governments intervening in matters that are solely up to us to resolve,” he said.

In the “note of protest,” or diplomatic note, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) expressed its “profound disapproval” over Salazar’s remarks about “internal matters,” and declared that his statement is “an unacceptable act of interference” and a violation of Mexican sovereignty.

“It doesn’t reflect the degree of respect that characterizes relations between our governments,” the SRE added.

López Obrador said that the government would also send a diplomatic note to the government of Canada after Ambassador Graeme Clarke said in an an interview that Canadian investors are concerned about the judicial reform proposal.

AMLO noted that he, as president, has the authority to send reform proposals to Congress, and that the legislature has the power to approve them.

He sent the judicial reform proposal to Congress in February, and the ruling Morena party submitted a modified version of the bill to a lower house committee last Friday. It could be approved as soon as next month, when Morena and its allies will have a supermajority in the lower house of Congress and a strong majority in the Senate.

An official document rebuking U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar for 'interference' in Mexican affairs — The Mexican government issued an official note of protest in response to Salazar’s comments. (Gobierno de México)

Opponents of the bill say that the direct election of judges from candidates nominated by the sitting president, the Congress and the judiciary itself threatens the independence of Mexico’s justice system. Judicial elections, in some cases, would coincide with political elections, a situation that critics believe could lead to politicization of the judiciary.

The SRE’s diplomatic note sought to dispel concerns about the reform proposal, affirming that “the government of Mexico is committed to a judicial power that enjoys true independence, autonomy and legitimacy” and can thus strengthen the rule of law and improve access to justice for everyone.

López Obrador explained the government’s motivation for overhauling the judiciary.

“Why are we proposing this reform? Because the judicial power is plagued by corruption. It’s full of corruption; it’s hijacked … and at the service of a greedy minority, those who previously felt they were the owners of Mexico,” he said.

“And never in recent times, in modern history, has the judicial power delivered justice for Mexicans. Rather it has become an instrument at the service of a minority,” said López Obrador, who has been irked by court decisions against his government’s policies and infrastructure projects.

On Friday afternoon, Salazar sought to reframe his remarks on the judicial reform.

On X, he said that “the concerns” he expressed about the direct election of judges were made in the “spirit of collaboration.”

“As partners we seek honest and open dialogue to continue with the great democratic and economic progress we have achieved,” Salazar wrote.

The United States and Mexico have “created an unprecedented relationship as partners and equals,” he said, adding that “communication is crucial” especially when “our common goals and our trade relation” are at stake.

The Supreme Court of Mexico — Under the proposal, federal judges — including Supreme Court justices — would be elected from a candidate pool chosen by the sitting president, Congress and the judiciary. (CDMX Servicio de Medios Públicos)

The ambassador also said he is willing to speak with “the leadership of Mexico about the direct election of judges and exchange opinions about different models.”

Sheinbaum: The US elects judges by popular vote

Around seven hours after Salazar issued his statement on Thursday, President-elect Sheinbaum took to social media to provide what she described as “very relevant information.”

“In 43 of the 50 states of the United States of America judges are elected by popular vote,” she wrote.

According to nonprofit organization Equal Justice Initiative, five U.S. states select all of their judges through partisan elections, and 39 states use elections to choose at least some of their judges.

In June, Dr. Michael Kang, a professor at Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law, said that “judicial elections are very, very common in the United States” and noted “that’s kind of unusual internationally speaking.”

Mexico doesn’t currently hold judicial elections, with many judges appointed by the Federal Judiciary Council.

Speaking at a U.S. Department of State event, Kang highlighted that “judicial elections occur at the state level” in the United States, while “at the federal level, the judges, the justices of the Supreme Court, are selected by the president.”

“They’re appointed by the president, and they are approved by the Senate, with the advice and consent of the Senate. … It’s not an election system,” he said.

Información muy relevante: en 43 de los 50 estados de los Estados Unidos de América se eligen los jueces por voto popular.

— Dra. Claudia Sheinbaum (@Claudiashein) August 23, 2024

Under the Mexican government’s proposal, citizens would elect federal judges, including Supreme Court justices.

If the reform is approved, all 11 Supreme Court justices — who are appointed for 15 years — could be replaced in elections in 2025. López Obrador has been critical of Chief Justice Norma Piña and other justices who have handed down rulings against the government.

Sheinbaum told a press conference on Thursday that the judicial reform proposal includes “rules” to prevent the president of the day from directly appointing a judge or interfering in judicial elections.

She also said that the process to select candidates would be “very transparent” and that prospective judges would have the required experience to do the job.

Under the proposal, Sheinbaum asserted, the sitting president will have less of a say in the appointment of Supreme Court justices, not more, as critics of the bill argue.

“The president will no longer have a hand in appointing justices,” she said.

“… It’s a very complete process,” Sheinbaum said, referring to both candidate selection and judicial elections.

“It’s new, but it has nothing to do with this idea … that [judges] are now going to be more aligned to the president. … It’s a complete proposal that guarantees autonomy [for the judiciary],” she said.

With reports from Proceso