Chinese FAW cars to return to the Mexican market

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February 5, 2024

Gallery1 — Chinese automaker FAW will return to the Mexican market, 16 years after an unsuccessful partnership with Grupo Salinas. (FAW)

FAW, a Chinese automaker that had previously entered the Mexican market in 2008 without success, is set to launch its cars in Mexico starting in March.

The company will introduce four different models of its Bestune brand vehicles, including the B70 sedan, B70S crossover, and T77 and T99 SUVs. All will be equipped with either a 1.5- or 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine.

The Bestune T77 SUV is amongst the models that will be imported. (FAW)

Shanghai Auto Assembly Group (SAAG), a Mexican subsidiary of Mirage – an importer of air conditioners – will import the vehicles. Their launch is scheduled for March 14.

SAAG also plans to introduce the JIM brand pickups, owned by Jiangling Motors Corporation Group (JMC). The brand’s product range includes 4×2 and 4×4 models, with manual and automatic transmission.

The CEO of SAAG, Zaid Leyva, told the newspaper Expansión that the company seeks to offer unique features that differentiate them from other Chinese brands on the Mexican market. “We believe that we have found the right formula to provide something different to potential customers in Mexico,” Leyva stated.

When FAW first entered the Mexican market 16 years ago, it did so under the umbrella of Grupo Salinas, after reaching an agreement for the marketing of three models via the retailer Elektra: the F1, F4 and F5.

FAW also plans to move it’s ELAM-FAW truck assembly business to Colima. (ELAM-FAW)

However, Grupo Salinas suspended the sale of FAW vehicles, resulting in the cancellation of the project and the termination of a deal with mechanic workshop Speedy for after-sales service.

This time around, SAAG will create a network of dealerships that groups of distributors will operate.

SAAG plans to open 15 to 20 distributors across Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey by the end of 2024. It has already signed contracts with six distributor groups that will open the first SAAG dealerships. Twelve more groups are currently in the decision-making process.

SAAG will also launch a financial institution, SAAG Financial, to offer financing options with competitive rates.

In Mexico, FAW also has a partnership with the cargo truck manufacturer Latin America Truck Assembly (ELAM) known as ELAM-FAW. They have announced plans to move their current manufacturing plant located in Hidalgo, to expand production capacity in the country and reduce logistics costs.

According to the Colima state government, ELAM-FAW has signed a letter of intent with the state to install their assembly plant there, which will require an initial investment of 7 billion pesos (US $408 million).

Founded in 1953, FAW is one of China’s oldest and largest car manufacturers, and today also makes electric vehicles under the Hongqi, Bestune and Jiefang brands.

With reports from Milenio, Reforma and Expansión

S & P Global Ratings says outlook is ‘stable’ in Mexico

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MND Staff

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February 5, 2024

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A computer screen with the words "S&P Global Ratings" — S & P Global has maintained Mexico's investment grade credit rating and stable outlook. (Shutterstock)

S & P Global Ratings, one of the “big three” credit rating agencies, believes that “cautious macroeconomic policy” will continue in Mexico regardless of who wins the June 2 elections, but anticipates that the country’s economic growth will be below that of its “peers” in the coming years.

Late last week, S & P affirmed its BBB long-term foreign currency and BBB+ long-term local currency sovereign credit ratings for Mexico. “The outlook remains stable,” the agency added in an article.

The affirmation of the BBB and BBB+ ratings allows Mexico to maintain “investment grade” status as it is deemed as having adequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.

S & P said that “the stable outlook reflects our expectation that cautious macroeconomic management will prevail over the next two years, notwithstanding complex global conditions.”

“This horizon includes the run-up to June’s national elections, the presidential transition period, and the start of the next administration. Our base case assumes that whatever the outcome of June’s elections, the next government will extend Mexico’s record of cautious macroeconomic policy execution, including prudent monetary policy and a return to low fiscal deficits,” the New York-based agency said.

“We do not expect advancement of major policy initiatives that either improve or hurt Mexico’s business climate — or affect trend economic growth — amid the elections in the U.S. and Mexico this year.”

Claudia Sheinbaum speaks at a podium — Morena party candidate Claudia Sheinbaum is strong favorite to win the presidency in June. (Daniel Augusto / Cuartoscuro.com)

Recent poll results indicate that ruling Morena party candidate Claudia Sheinbaum will win the June 2 presidential election and succeed President Andrés Manuel López Obrador this October, and that Morena will be the dominant party in the next Congress.

Downside and upside scenarios

S & P said that “the credibility of Mexico’s independent central bank … and its ability to pursue an inflation-targeting monetary policy in the face of challenging circumstances” as well as Mexico’s “solid external position” were key factors in its assessment of economic conditions in the country and consequent decision to affirm its prevailing ratings.

Moving forward, “unexpected setbacks in macroeconomic management” or in relations between the USMCA partners “on strengthening cooperation, supply-chain resilience, and cross-border linkages would likely weaken investor sentiment and investment and could lead to a [credit rating] downgrade over the next two years,” the agency said.

It also said that “persistently higher general government deficits that lead to a sharper-than-expected rise in general government debt would heighten fiscal risks … and could also lead to a downgrade.”

Conversely, “effective political and economic management that bolsters Mexico’s subpar growth trajectory, such as with a more dynamic investment outlook, could lead to an upgrade,” S & P said.

Similarly, initiatives that “bolster budgetary flexibility, support fiscal buffers, and broaden the non-oil tax base to mitigate the potential contingent liability posed by state-owned companies in the energy sector would improve creditworthiness,” the agency added.

Growth outlook

S & P estimated that economic growth remained above 3% last year (preliminary data showed a 3.1% expansion), but forecast that “it will slow to an average 2.2% in 2024-2027.”

Such growth would put Mexico’s per capita GDP at about US $14,700 on average in 2024-2027, the agency said.

A construction site — The economy’s early 2024 growth has been bolstered by public infrastructure projects like the Maya Train and the Isthmus of Tehuantepec trade corridor. (Elizabeth Ruiz/Cuartoscuro)

“We expect real per capita GDP growth to remain below that of peers with a similar level of economic development in 2024-2027,” it said.

S & P said that the anticipated slowdown in 2024 “stems from global and U.S. conditions, with growth higher in the first part of the year as the government finishes flagship projects,” such as the Maya Train railroad and the Isthmus of Tehuantepec trade corridor project.

“We do foresee continued solid consumption, supported by employment gains and remittances and manufactured goods exports. Investment, however, after a jump in 2023, is likely to slow as some projects conclude and the policy priorities of the next administration remain uncertain,” it said.

While foreign companies made announcements last year in which they committed to invest more than US $100 billion in Mexico, “prospects for nearshoring to bolster trend growth have yet to be realized,” S & P said.

It highlighted a range of challenges that will need to be overcome in order for the nearshoring phenomenon to enable “higher trend growth.”

Those mentioned were “energy and water security, infrastructure needs, qualified labor, and rule of law.”

S & P said that “lingering negative private-sector sentiment toward some of the current administration’s policies, particularly those in the energy sector, have limited upside.”

President López Obrador has remained committed to his nationalistic energy policies — including strong support for the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and the state oil company Pemex — despite both the United States and Canada filing challenges against them under USMCA in 2022.

S & P said that the way in which current policies “evolve under the next government will be key to realizing upside from nearshoring or ‘friend-shoring’ opportunities” created by Mexico’s proximity to the United States and competitive labor costs, among other factors.

A view of the city of Monterrey — Though northern cities like Monterrey, Nuevo León, hav seen industrial growth from nearshoring, the trend has yet to make a major impact on national economic growth. (David Liceaga/Unsplash)

Looking back, S & P said that despite “cautious macroeconomic management” in recent decades, Mexico “has not enjoyed as much economic dynamism as other emerging markets.”

Both Sheinbaum and Xóchitl Gálvez, presidential candidate for the PAN-PRI-PRD opposition alliance have spoken with optimism about Mexico’s nearshoring opportunity, while Nuevo León Governor Samuel García — who for a brief period was planning on contesting the 2024 presidential election — said last year that the relocation of foreign companies to Mexico could spur annual economic growth of up to 10%.

The government responds to S & P’s latest ratings

The Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP) said in a statement that the rating agency’s “ratification” of its investment grade sovereign rating “will allow the country to continue with favorable access to national and international markets.”

The SCHP added that it “maintains its commitment” to stability in finances and the management of public debt.

Deputy Finance Minster Gabriel Yorio noted on social media that Mexico currently has investment grade ratings “with a stable outlook with the eight ratings agencies” that assess the country.

Mexico News Daily

Meet Grammy-nominated Silvana Estrada: The next Mexican global music star

By

Camila Sánchez Bolaño

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February 5, 2024

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Qué+locura+estar+aquí+@recordingacademy — Estrada was nominated in the category of Best Overall Musical Performance. (Silvana Estrada/Instagram)

One name in the Mexican contemporary musical landscape resonates with a blend of nostalgia, authenticity and raw talent: Silvana Estrada. She was born in Coatepec, Veracruz, a region steeped in rich musical heritage best known for its traditional son jarocho and fandango. Silvana’s journey into the world of music began at an early age; she comes from a family of luthiers which allowed her to grow up surrounded by instruments and musicians and shaped her musical instincts with the melodies of traditional Mexican folk and jazz. “My music is made of who I am,” she asserts in an interview for Forbes.

Silvana’s musical journey is not just about her beautiful voice or her virtuoso skills on the Venezuelan cuatro (a form of guitar); it’s about the immense power of storytelling through music. Her lyrics are original poems that simultaneously serve as windows into an old and a recent Mexico. Each verse weaves tales of love, broken hearts, longing, violence, gender and just life in Mexico.

But Silvana’s rise to prominence wasn’t very smooth. Like many artists unwilling to transform their art into what is trending, she had to navigate the music industry, facing challenges and setbacks along the way. However, her passion and dedication to her craft kept her forging ahead and thanks to her determination and clarity of mission, she carved a niche for herself in a competitive landscape without sacrificing her beliefs. Now, people of all ages and backgrounds listen to her music because she speaks to the Mexican context and universal feelings.

What sets Silvana apart is her ability to infuse traditional Mexican folk with a contemporary twist, creating a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. Whether she’s singing a heartfelt ballad or a more jazzy number, there’s an undeniable authenticity to her music that captivates audiences far and wide.

Silvana Estrada — Milagro y Desastre (Video Oficial)

Watch this video on YouTube

The Mexican star made waves with the release of her EP, “Abrazo,” following her dual nominations at the Latin Grammy Awards 2023 for Best Singer-Songwriter Album and Best New Artist. Remarkably, she clinched the Latin Grammy for Best New Artist in 2022 at just 25 years old.

While she didn’t take home the award, her nomination at the 2024 Grammy Awards for Best Global Music Performance with her song “Milagro y Desastre” is an exciting accomplishment. A song that was born from her belief that life-changing events are both a miracle and a disaster. “This idea has helped me a lot to understand and heal my experiences over the years. In this song, I wanted to vindicate all the facets of love, even the love that hurts when it ends,” she said in an interview in Spanish with Rolling Stone magazine.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Silvana Estrada (@silvanaestradab)

Collaborations have been a significant part of Silvana’s journey, having performed and recorded with artists like Natalia Lafourcade, Andrew Bird, Devendra Banhart and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Notably, jazz guitarist Charlie Hunter was one of Silvana’s first collaborations in a live show in New York featuring Antonio Sánchez.

Silvana Estrada — Brindo (con Charlie Hunter, Antonio Sánchez y Michael League)

Watch this video on YouTube

Also, her collaboration with Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 2023 propelled Silvana to international recognition.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Silvana Estrada (@silvanaestradab)

Moreover, her voice extends beyond her music as a feminist voice in the context of Mexican violence. She addresses pressing social issues through her lyrics and activism, sparking important conversations and advocating for change. ‘Si me matan,’ a song about gender violence has become an anthem for resistance in the Mexican feminist protests and context.

Silvana’s childhood home recently served as the stage for a Tiny Desk (Home) Concert for NPR. In a world dominated by fleeting trends and manufactured pop stars, Silvana’s emergence represents a return to the roots of Mexican music, where heartfelt lyrics and melodies matter the most.

Silvana Estrada: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert

Watch this video on YouTube

As Silvana continues to enchant audiences with her mesmerizing performances and soulful compositions, one thing is clear: her journey is far from over. With each strum of her guitar and each note she sings, she carries on the rich legacy of Mexican music, ensuring that its soulful melodies echo for generations.

Camila Sánchez Bolaño is a journalist, feminist, bookseller, lecturer, and cultural promoter and is Editor in Chief of Newsweek en Español magazine.

Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will host first match of 2026 World Cup

By

MND Staff

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February 5, 2024

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The opening match of the men’s World Cup soccer tournament in 2026 will take place at the Estadio Azteca (Aztec Stadium) in Mexico City, the sport’s ruling body announced on Sunday.

The schedule released by the International Association Football Federation (FIFA) revealed that group-stage matches from June 11-27, 2026 will start in Mexico and that the final on July 19 will be at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The June 11 opening match will pit Mexico’s national team against a to-be-determined opponent; Mexico receives an automatic bid to play as a host nation.

The tournament will expand to 48 teams in 2026, and for the first time, it will be jointly hosted by three countries: Mexico, the United States and Canada. Teams and matchups won’t be determined until the qualifying process is completed over the next 14 months.

Guadalajara will host four group-stage matches at Akron Stadium in Zapopan, Jalisco, while Mexico City and Monterrey (BBVA Stadium) will each host three matches in the group stage. The first Guadalajara match will be on June 11, 2026, the same day as the first Mexico City match.

The granting of the opening game to Mexico City was a nice nod to the nation’s soccer heritage Mexico previously hosted World Cups in 1970 and 1986 — meaning Aztec Stadium will become the first venue ever to stage matches in three different World Cups. The legendary stadium now seats about 83,000 after being scaled back from 105,000.

Mexican fans at World Cup 2022 — The 2026 World Cup games in Mexico are sure to sell out fast when they go on sale in 2025. (Photo: Archive)

Matches will begin June 12 in the United States at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and in Canada at BMO Field in Toronto.

The knockout stage, which will begin on June 28 with a record field of 32 teams, will include one game each in Monterrey (June 29) and Mexico City (June 30).

Mexico City will host one more game, on July 5, a round-of-16 battle to determine one of the teams in the quarterfinals. The quarterfinals and beyond will be contested on U.S. soil.

In all, there will be a record 104 matches held throughout the three nations, with 13 in Mexico, 13 in Vancouver and Toronto, and the rest in the United States. Sixteen stadiums will host games.

The Mexican national team will play two matches in Mexico City (June 11 and 24) and one in Guadalajara (June 18), FIFA announced.

The last men’s World Cup was Qatar 2022, where Mexico was eliminated after a 0-0 tie vs. Poland, a 2-0 loss to eventual champion Argentina and a 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia. It marked the first time since 1978 that Mexico failed to advance to the knockout round.

With reports from Forbes and USA Today

Truckers strike against highway insecurity across Mexico

By

MND Staff

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February 5, 2024

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Trucks on a highway in Mexico City — Despite a meeting with government officials on Saturday, truckers have gone ahead with their planned strike on Monday. (Cuartoscuro)

Truckers went on strike across Mexico on Monday to protest insecurity on highways and demand action from authorities to remedy the situation.

The national strike went ahead despite the federal government saying Sunday it had reached an agreement with unions to avoid the planned stoppage.

👉En la México-Pachuca aún no inicia el paro de transportistas.🚘 Sin embargo, hay dos camiones que apenas llegaron y aseguran estar esperando a más compañeros. Se identificaron como parte del Sindicato Nacional de Operadores y Transportistas. VIDEO: @LauraBruges. pic.twitter.com/EqLsTw5jbZ

— Grupo Fórmula (@Radio_Formula) February 5, 2024

Truckers in Veracruz, Chihuahua, Querétaro, Chiapas, Jalisco, Nuevo León, Guanajuato and Nayarit were among those who stopped work to protest insecurity on Mexico’s highways, where robberies are commonplace.

Ignacio Granados, a member of Indeco — one of the groups with which the government said it had reached an agreement — said in a radio interview on Monday morning that around 150,000 drivers were expected to take part in the national strike.

He said there was no agreement with the government and that “we don’t understand what the intention of the Interior Ministry (Segob) was” with the statement it released on Sunday saying the strike was canceled.

The statement said that the government had reached an agreement with transport organizations to engage in dialogue in order to “continue conciliation work” aimed at “guaranteeing greater security on federal highways.”

As a result of a meeting between federal officials and representatives of four unions on Saturday, the transport organizations “informed that they wouldn’t carry out any national strike nor a blockade of federal roads,” Segob said.

The ANTAC truckers’ association, which wasn’t involved in the talks with the government, published the SEGOB statement on social media with the word “false” superimposed on it in red letters.

“Don’t be fooled colleague, join the national strike this Feb. 5,” the union said.

Truckers protest in México state. — Truckers protested over the same unsafe conditions in March 2022. (Photo: Archive)

While thousands of truckers stopped work on Monday, there were no immediate reports of major disruptions on highways due to blockades. The El Economista newspaper reported that the Mexico City-Querétaro highway was blocked near a toll booth in Tepotzotlán, México state, but only briefly.

Truckers indicated that they planned to mainly protest on the sides of highways and not block lanes, or at least not all of them.

The strike on Monday comes less than a month after the president of the Confederation of Industrial Chambers (Concamin) told a press conference that some 85,000 transport trucks have been targeted in robberies since President López Obrador took office in late 2018.

José Abugaber Andonie said that such robberies — which include the hijacking of trucks in some cases — cost the economy over 7 billion pesos (US $407 million) per year and asserted that insecurity is “rampant” and “out of control” in Mexico.

Foodstuffs, construction materials, auto parts, medications, fuel, clothing and footwear are among the products criminals are stealing on the nation’s highways, Abugaber said, adding that stolen goods may not just be sold on the black market, but also reincorporated into the formal market as a result of criminals pressuring stores to purchase them.

Presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum, who will represent the ruling Morena party in the June 2 election, said Sunday that her team has a two-pronged — and very simple — plan to provide security on the nation’s highways.

Truckers, or transportistas, in León gave a speech over a casket to emphasize the risk faced by drivers. (@BexTransportes/X)

It entails “the presence of the [National] Guard on highways in some areas” of the country and “at the same time the arrest of people who dedicate themselves to robbery,” she said at the event in Colima.

Sheinbaum also said that insecurity must be addressed by attending to the causes of crime, as the current government has focused on doing through the delivery of a range of welfare and employment programs.

The Morena candidate’s main rival for the presidency, Xóchitl Gálvez of the Strength and Heart for Mexico opposition alliance, stressed during an interview given in New York last week that “we need to return security” to Mexico’s highways, which are used to move essential goods around and to get huge quantities of exports to the United States.

Javier Robles, director of public relations and sales at the private security company Grupo Multisistemas de Seguridad Industrial, told the La Jornada newspaper last month that “unfortunately there is no presence” or only a “very minimal” presence of the National Guard on Mexican highways.

“The majority of robberies are now with violence and weapons,” he added.

With reports from El Financiero, El Universal, ADN 40, Radio Fórmula and Reforma

The week in photos from Mexico: Oaxaca to Tlacotalpan

By

MND Staff

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February 3, 2024

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A rainbow over the US-Mexico border near Tijuana — Feb. 2: After several rainy days, a rainbow appeared over the border between Mexico and the United States in Tijuana. (OMAR MARTÍNEZ /CUARTOSCURO.COM)

Mexico City

Oaxaca city, Oaxaca

Baby Jesus figurine held up by a woman — Feb. 1: On the eve of Candlemas (Día de la Candelaria), Catholics in Oaxaca dress their figures of baby Jesus in preparation for the event, which commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple. (CAROLINA JIMÉNEZ/CUARTOSCURO.COM)

Ocumicho, Michoacán

Two people light a flame in Michoacán ceremony — Feb. 1: Every year, hundreds of people from the four Purépecha regions of Ciénega de Zacapu, Región Lacustre, Cañada de los Once Pueblos and Meseta Purépecha gather to celebrate a new cycle of life by lighting the New Year Fire, or kurhíkuaeri k’uinchekua on the first of February. (GRACIELA LÓPEZ/CUARTOSCURO.COM)

Ocoyoacac, México state

People buying tamales from vendors — Feb. 2: People line up to buy tamales at the annual tamal festival held in Ocoyoacac for Candlemas. (CRISANTA ESPINOSA AGUILAR /CUARTOSCURO.COM)

Tlacotalpan, Veracruz

Boat with a religious procession — Feb. 2: Celebration of the traditional procession of the Virgin during the Candlemas festivities in Tlacotalpan, Veracruz. (ALBERTO ROA/CUARTOSCURO.COM)

Tuxtla Chico, Chiapas

A young boy smiles while preparing colored sawdust for a religious event — Feb. 2: In Tuxtla Chico, Chiapas, residents prepare carpets of colorful sawdust for the pilgrimage of the Virgin of the Conception. (DAMIÁN SÁNCHEZ/CUARTOSCURO.COM)

What you need to know about dermal fillers in Mexico

By

Henrietta Weekes

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February 3, 2024

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sam-moghadam-khamseh-2rrsfMN4hn8-unsplash — Non-invasive cosmetic procedures like peels, fillers, lasers and related skin procedures are on the rise. (Unsplash)

Thinking of taking advantage of the medical tourism boom in Mexico? You’re not alone — the industry is thriving, not just due to Mexico’s proximity to the United States and Canada, but also because it offers the best bang for your buck. According to Statista, the Mexican medical tourism market is likely to grow 350% by between 2016-2024. Professional clinics in Mexico offer highly trained doctors, top quality amenities and a high level of one-on-one attention in consultations and follow-up care.

Non-invasive cosmetic procedures like peels, fillers, lasers and related skin procedures are on the rise. They’re rapidly becoming one of the most popular aesthetic treatments, as they require no recovery time and provide immediate results.

We asked Dr Lara, expert dermatologist and cosmetic aesthetician, founder of Clínica de la Piel Dermantra in San Miguel de Allende, about getting dermal and lip fillers in Mexico and how they can improve your face, lip volume and structure. What should you be aware of when seeking a clinic and practitioner? What are the price comparisons with filler treatment in the US? Which products would she recommend for faces and lips?

Dr Lara, what can dermal fillers do and what treatments are available?

My industry has been using dermal fillers safely since the 1980s. Fillers can improve skin quality, restore volume to skin and lips and even help to remodel areas of the face.

We can volumize lips, plump cheeks, fill in forehead lines, reshape the nose or chin, eliminate nasolabial or marionette lines, vertical lines above the lips, ‘tear troughs’ (under-eye bags), and even reduce the appearance of scars — safely and with instant results, which is pretty incredible!

Hyaluronic acid delivers instant hydration and volume

Medical-grade filler injections are typically made up of hyaluronic acid or collagen, which occurs in the skin naturally. Injecting hyaluronic acid in the face attracts water, which keeps the skin more hydrated. As we age, we suffer bone, fat and muscle loss and our skin begins to thin. This dermal filler acts by delivering instant hydration and plumpness to the skin, reducing wrinkles and folds and what’s amazing is you can expect to see instant results!

What type of hyaluronic products are available in Mexico and how do you feel about them?

Anytime we talk about fillers in your body, purity matters. The best product is exceptionally pure and will be high density, so that you need very little of it. We want to avoid any inflammation after the procedure which can occur if products are mixed or diluted.

Two popular products, Belotero and Aliaxin, are known for ultrapure hyaluronic acid, which seamlessly integrates into the skin.

I have also worked with top products, brand names like Juvederm and Restylane, but since the COVID vaccination, I have observed a few adverse reactions in my patients who chose the formulation that is in Restylane and Juvederm. I couldn’t tell you the exact science behind that, or the reasons for it, but it’s an observation that I think is important to share.

Biostimulants stimulate collagen production

I also use biostimulants; injectables that differ from dermal fillers because they address volume loss over time. They provide rehydration to the skin and stimulate collagen, which ultimately also slows down the aging process. The injections restore collagen that is lost due to aging, which creates the effect of filling in wrinkles and plumping volume in the chosen area.

I recommend, and work with brand names Radiesse and Sculptra, as they are the most biocompatible, natural, fillers. They are completely synthetic, and promote the new formation of collagen, with a minimal chance of inflammation or adverse reaction.

Sculptra produces this ‘new tissue’ or ‘new collagen’, which is a bit like scar tissue and needs to heal, like a scar would, depending on your skin type and age. If that’s not ideal for a person, then Radiesse may work, because the calcium it contains matches the calcium in our own body and therefore stimulates the fibroblast cells directly (the cells that promote natural collagen).

What current treatments are you recommending for your patients right now?

At a dermatological congress I attended in 2019 I had the privilege of listening to Dr. Nabil Fakih (who now practices between Lebanon, Dubai, and Spain). He’s one of the best craniofacial surgeons in the world and he promotes a hybrid technique, mixing Belotero and Radiesse, which has produced powerful results.

I was lucky enough to undergo intensive training from him over the last two years, and so I can confidently use this technique in my patients. This product hybrid nicely restores volume, and also improves skin quality by promoting new collagen formation – what I call ‘young’ collagen (Type-I collagen).

Here’s a list of 6 common facial areas where fillers can be used

Volumizing Lips

Thanks to a variety of celebrities (who, depending on your taste, may overplump!), volumizing the lips might be the most well-known use for dermal fillers currently. Lip filler treatments can be personalized, achieving a subtle boosting of the natural shape of the lips and evening out the texture by creating symmetry and filling in lines.

Plump Cheeks

Expertly injected fillers can restore the volume and appearance of youth to the cheeks without the effects associated with Botox, commonly known as ‘face freezing’. Where facelift surgery is more invasive and requires a fairly lengthy recovery period, cheek fillers can create a younger, more energized and radiant-looking face.

Fill in Forehead Lines

Fillers reduce the appearance of visible static lines, unlike Botox, which temporarily paralyzes muscles to eliminate the movement causing wrinkles. The injections fill in the lines with hyaluronic acid or biosynthetic stimulants.

Reshape the Chin or Nose

Dermal filler injections are also used as a nonsurgical option to fix common complaints in aging people! It is possible to reshape areas such as the jawline, chin or nose, improving a patient’s side profile and reducing a sagging neck.

I have special training in bolometric lifting, which I took in Brazil, Vienna, Argentina and Korea with Merz Pharmaceutical. Bolometric lifting is when you inject in the upper corners of the face, which effectively lifts the lower face and nasolabial folds.

Marionette lines and nasolabial folds can be eliminated!

Marionette lines are the lines below each corner of the mouth that can add to the appearance of aging. Fillers can easily fill in that lost volume and instantly brighten and balance the face, adding a more youthful appearance. Nasolabial folds are the lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, and fillers here can easily create a more youthful, softer and natural look.

Reduce the appearance of scars

Scars can create indentations or an anomalous facial texture in one area, and even if they are hardly noticeable to others, facial scars can make people feel very insecure and uncomfortable. Fortunately, dermal fillers can be used in this instance too, to even out the surrounding texture. Fillers are a great option instead of opting for a surgical procedure, and I’ve often seen an extraordinary boost of confidence in my patients overnight.

I really think that’s the point of surgery in the modern world. Women are happier, just from receiving these small, and less invasive cosmetic procedures.

Cost of a filler treatment in Mexico compared to the United States

This kind of treatment is more affordable in Mexico than in the United States, Canada or Europe, by about a third. Some of my patients will come for this treatment and combine it with a vacation, or when they come for the winter months.

How do you look for the best cosmetic treatment provider?

In Mexico, we have the great advantage of being able to work with certain U.S., European and Korean brands as we don’t have the strong lobbying groups that exist in the United States. Eighty percent of my clients these days — both returning and new — travel from the United States.

You should always thoroughly investigate a doctor’s background and credentials and patient reviews before choosing a provider. A direct recommendation — when you can see the results of someone’s procedure — is even more preferable! A good doctor should also always present a wide variety of the brands I have recommended above (among others) to choose from. This is important because you want to ensure that providers only carry authentic brands in their stock.

Doctors, including myself, might suggest alternative treatments like microneedling or laser treatment, depending on your skin type and age. In Mexico, and certainly, at my clinic, you should expect to have an in-depth consultation to discuss major concerns, exactly what you’d like to see in the results and the details of the procedure.

I see a lot of “snowbirds” (those who migrate to Mexico for the winter months) now deciding to live full-time in Mexico! I think it’s a warmer country, not only in climate but in spirit. This is no different in medicine and I think people want to feel that they’re being genuinely cared for, and that the doctor is truly committed to getting the best results. I certainly operate under that principle. I think these personality traits are prevalent in the medical profession in Mexico.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. The writer and Mexico News Daily assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content on this site. Individuals should always consult with qualified professionals regarding medical procedures, including plastic and/or cosmetic surgery, and medical aesthetic treatments, as well as consider their jurisdiction’s applicable laws and regulations.

Henrietta Weekes is a writer, editor, actor and narrator. She divides her time between San Miguel de Allende, New York and Oxford, UK.

My weekend in Las Vegas reminded me why I love living in Mexico

By

Travis Bembenek

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February 3, 2024

12

Las Vegas sphere at night — While in Las Vegas, Travis Bembenek reflected on how his habits and experiences are different in Mexico versus the United States. (Shutterstock)

To me, going to Las Vegas is a masterclass in observing human behavior. I don’t like to gamble, but was meeting some family there for a long weekend, so I took advantage of the time to do some introspection.

I enjoy observing and learning from different people, and Las Vegas gives one a lot of material to study!

I understand that the city is about as far from typical as you can get, but it is a fascinating cross-section of humanity. People of all ethnic backgrounds, ages and socio-economic levels enjoying the same few miles of hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, stores, and of course, casinos.

Spending a few days there reinforced a few important things to me about my life in Mexico:

I feel much less temptation to buy things in Mexico than I do in the United States

The marketing has become so damn good in the US that it is increasingly hard not to want to buy things. Sales, promotions, campaigns, free delivery, easy parking, perfect product placement, easy return policies, great availability and variety all make it too hard to resist buying things in the U.S.

In Mexico, in most places we have much less of that consumerist pressure. There are very few sales, product selection is more limited, returns are not easy, the marketing and sales efforts are not omnipresent and perfectly crafted, delivery is not yet as good, and we rarely have easy parking! As a result, I find that I buy significantly less “stuff” in Mexico. It’s just not as fun or convenient or tempting — and I think that’s a good thing!

I eat a lot less food in Mexico

Similar to the products in stores mentioned above, the temptation to eat frequently and much bigger quantities is much higher in the United States. The parking at restaurants is often easy, there are unlimited refills of soft drinks, portions are beyond huge, seating is plentiful, and the service is fast and efficient. In Mexico, it’s usually totally different.

Many restaurants in our town don’t have parking and some don’t even have many seats to sit in. I think that eating a taco while standing up might even improve the taste! Free refills? No way! Fast service at most places? Forget about it! Portions tend to be much more reasonable. Rarely am I hard-sold appetizers or drinks or desserts in Mexico. You just order what you want and that’s it. I am not good at saying “no” to these upsold items (as I suspect is the case with many people), so I am happy to not have the pressure to consume more.

I eat a lot healthier in Mexico

I am finding that it is increasingly hard to find the combination of reasonably priced AND healthy food in the US. You can find healthy, but it is often very expensive. You can find cheap, but it is often not at all healthy. It makes for a frustrating dilemma. In Mexico, most days and most meals I eat are relatively inexpensive and very healthy – and I must say that results in a very satisfying combination. I can’t stress enough how great it feels to have access to affordable and healthy food on a daily basis – its life changing!

My daily carbon footprint is dramatically less in Mexico than in the U.S.

I spend so much time in the car and driving in the United States — as many people do. Of course in most cities in the US, there is little choice and it’s made very easy to drive everywhere. The convenience of driving in the US is unparalleled, with great infrastructure, quick drive-throughs, ample parking everywhere, and long open hours at most places — but that ultimately results in a lot of time in the car and on the road. Many places in Mexico — as they are in many parts of the world — were built around the ability to walk to do many of the daily activities you need to do and as a result (or consequence), driving and spending time in the car is often much less common. I understand that this is not the case in many parts of Mexico’s growing mega-cities.

The amount of garbage I generate in the United States on a daily basis is significantly higher

We ordered some food at a restaurant in Las Vegas and they brought it to us in Styrofoam containers and a plastic bag — to eat inside the restaurant! I have no idea why. On a separate occasion, in a bar I ordered a soft drink and it was brought to me in a disposable plastic cup, inside the bar! One morning my wife and I had breakfast at a coffee shop that resulted in a huge amount of trash. The coffee shop we go to in our Mexican town has reusable cups and plates, resulting in essentially zero trash. Most places in Mexico have mandatory reusable bags in grocery stores — they simply don’t have plastic bags available. I find that in the U.S. in most places you still see very, very few people using them. The packaging on many food products in the U.S. is a landfill-filling nightmare of plastic. In Mexico, we often have to wash and disinfect our fruits and vegetables (which of course isn’t as convenient), but they come without disposable packaging.

The pressure I feel to “keep up with the Joneses” is significantly lower in Mexico

Many parts of Mexico — not all of course, as it’s changing here as well — still aren’t as overrun with the consumption and personal appearance pressures so common in the United States. In general, I find less judgement in Mexico, of one’s home, car, clothes, brand of handbag, brand of shoes, body features, etc. Many people just don’t seem to care as much about these things — for themselves or for you!

I don’t watch nearly as much sports on TV in Mexico — and I don’t miss it

I have always been a typical fan of televised sports, both college and professional, but I find that — once again — in Mexico the general lack of televisions everywhere makes it less likely to be watching games.

In the United States, there is hardly a restaurant anymore that doesn’t have TVs in every corner showing random games. The other day in a pizza place having dinner with my parents we ended up watching a random college women’s softball game between two teams we knew nothing about. Why, you might ask? Because there were so many TVs playing the game it was pretty much impossible not to watch. As a result, we communicated with each other a lot less as we found ourselves staring at the multitude of screens throughout the dinner.

I smile a lot more in Mexico

I find that people in the United States don’t make as much eye contact as (I think) they used to. Is it just me who has noticed this? Very few people greet you when you walk by with a “good morning” or “good evening”.

In Mexico, I find myself smiling a lot throughout the day. There still seems to be a level of joy and friendliness and happiness that I seem to have a harder time finding these days in the United States. The random acts of kindness are also something I find very common here.

I am not in any way saying that Mexico is perfect, and most definitely not saying that the United States is a bad place. However, I am increasingly aware as someone who has lived and experienced both countries how our surroundings shape who we are, and I enjoy how living in Mexico is changing my wife and me. Our recent trip to Las Vegas further confirmed to us how grateful and fortunate we are to be in Mexico right now.

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

5 budget-friendly ways to add Mexican colors to your home

By

Sarah DeVries

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February 3, 2024

0

konrad-burdyn-kZtSMLv9Q1Q-unsplash — If you’re as enchanted with the rainbow of Mexican colors as I am, you may be looking for ways to incorporate them into your own abode, whether here or abroad. (Unsplash)

What’s most people’s first impression of Mexico? Ask around, and I bet you’ll hear mention of its many colors in the first sentence. The combination of such an impressive array of Mexican colors truly is a sight to behold.

And we’re not talking just nature, though there’s plenty to marvel at there, as well. Amid the lush greens of the forests, the warm tans of its arid lands, and the wildly bright floral colors just begging to be noticed, humans contribute with their own additions, from azul rey (that deep, saturated blue) to rosa mexicana (a bright, cheery pink with just a touch more red than “bubble gum pink”).

Use vibrant colors to paint your walls. (Mestizmx/Instagram)

As someone who cares deeply about the beauty of one’s physical surroundings, I was immediately enchanted by Mexico’s colorful landscape. Coming from the United States, the “wildest” house color I’d seen was dark gray-blue. Entering Mexico for the first time, I felt like Dorothy stepping out of her dreary black-and-white house and into the dazzling world of Oz (without the munchkins or witches).

It was love at first sight.

If you’re as enchanted with the rainbow of Mexican colors as I am, you may be looking for ways to incorporate them into your own abode, whether here or abroad. Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! Here are my top tips for bringing Mexican colors into your home.

Paint some walls! Really. Don’t be scared! Painting one’s interiors (or exteriors) is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to make a major statement and quite literally fill your world with the colors you love. Heck, do a mural! The sky truly is the limit.
Granted, you may want to ask your landlord about this first, who will probably just say, “Do whatever you want but paint it white again before you leave.” And as one commenter on my last decor article pointed out, you’re very likely not getting your deposit back anyway (this, unfortunately, is true).
Don’t like what you painted? No problem. You can always paint again, which is one of the things I love most about doing it. We don’t always nail it the first time, and that’s okay — it’s an easy fix. I myself have a wall in my house that’s currently on its fourth color, and I’m already imagining the fifth. Sometimes it just takes getting the color up and seeing it, which to me, is always time well spent.
Paint some furniture! If you’re a novice painter, perhaps focus on furniture that was relatively cheap to get, like the simple pine shelves and tables that you can get at small carpentry shops.
If you’re (understandably) shy about changing the colors of the walls in your home, a simple chair or TV stand can easily be transformed. To do this, you’ve got two choices: you can either stain the wood using tinta (stain, of which a variety of colors can be found at certain Comex and PolyForm stores) and then cover it with a clear barniz (varnish), or you can simply paint it with whatever you have on hand. Pretty much any kind of paint can be mixed with plaster of Paris to create that famous “chalk paint,” and you can put some clear varnish over that too if you really want to protect it.
Bring the outside in (or at least in front of your windows). Remember those colorful flowers I mentioned? Go to your local vivero (plant nursery) to find some native plants for your space to add touches of my personal favorite color, green, all around. Plenty of plants sprout some gorgeous blooms as well, so talk to the people there to figure out which ones would be best suited to your space.
Another great option? Bouquets of flowers. They tend to be quite a bit cheaper here than in the U.S., so it’s a luxury that most people can afford. I love going to the market, especially right before some kind of convivio (get-together) in my house for a bright and colorful arrangement (or arrangements!) to make my home look especially welcoming.
Go shopping! As you know, there are beautiful handicrafts to be found all over Mexico, from ceramics to textiles to the perfect little calaverita for your nightstand. So support your local economy and see what people in your community are making and selling … chances are you’ll find something (or a few somethings) to bring the rainbow of colors outside in.
Remember, el diablo is in the details. Not a “maximalist” like me? That’s okay — most people aren’t. But that doesn’t mean you can’t add some striking color to your space. Whether it’s the perfect throw pillow placed just so in an otherwise minimalist apartment or a surprising shock of color behind the books of your bookshelf, there are so many ways to incorporate Mexican colors in a way that respects your personal style.

Green is always the best color! (Maye Ruiz/Instagram)

Down here, whimsy’s the name of the game. Whether you’re going all out or placing the perfect pillow cushion just so in a minimally decorated apartment, you’re bound to find the ideal balance between your personal style and the magical colors of, as far as I’m concerned, the most beautiful country in the world.

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

Best weekend getaways from Mexico City by bus: Part 2

By

Bethany Platanella

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February 3, 2024

7

gerardo-martin-fernandez-vallejo-ukIew--AEOc-unsplash — Some argue Guanajuato is Mexico’s most beautiful city, and I wouldn’t disagree. (Unsplash)

The journey continues! Read Best weekend getaways from CDMX by bus: Part 1 for an overview of CDMX’s most luxurious bus lines, where to board them, and the first 4 of 10 destinations you can reach in 5 hours or less!

Valle de Bravo

Spend the day sailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake. (Unsplash)

Best for: Outdoors

The highlights: Lake Avándaro, Cerro de la Cruz, Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

What to eat: trout, barbacoa de borrego, sopa de hongos

Why you should go: It’s a well-rounded getaway for active travelers who like a bit of Hamptons-style elegance. Spend the day sailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake. The surrounding hills offer activities from the relaxing, like hiking, to the more extreme, like paragliding. Downtown is quaint, colonial, and full of restaurants.

How to get to Valle de Bravo from Mexico City:

From PONIENTE

The Zina Bus line runs up to 26 departures per day. The journey lasts 3.5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 261 pesos.

Tepoztlán

Best for: Spiritual retreats

The highlights: El Tepozteco National Park and Pyramid, Tepoztlán market, a temazcal

What to eat: Tepoznieves, tamales de amarillo, cecina con nopales

Why you should go: Legend has it that Quetzalcoatl was born here, and because of that the town’s energy is said to be healing and purifying. It’s a popular escape for meditation, yoga, and those seeking treatment through shamanic practices. It’s also beautiful, surrounded by mountains and unobstructed views of the stars. Don’t forget to hike up the mountain to the temple at the summit.

How to get to Tepoztlán from Mexico City:

From SUR

ADO’s OCC line runs up to 23 departures per day. The journey lasts 1.5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 140 pesos.

San Miguel de Allende

Best for: Art

The highlights: Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, Jardín Allende, El Jardín Botánico, Colonia Guadalupe Arts District

What to eat: enchiladas mineras, el fiambre estilo San Miguel de Allende, tumbagón

Why you should go: San Miguel Allende is a 16th-century town with sophisticated amenities. The well-manicured center is bustling with shops, galleries, and restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. A short drive away are hot springs to fend off the possible resaca (hangover) resulting from a typical weekend here.

How to get to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City:

From NORTE

The Futura line runs up to 1 departure per day. The journey lasts 5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 575 pesos.

The ETN line runs up to 8 departures per day. The journey lasts 4-5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 688 pesos.

The PrimeraPlus line runs up to 3 departures per day. The journey lasts 4 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 608 pesos.

From SUR

The ETN line runs up to 3 departures per day. The journey lasts 5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 688 pesos.

Morelia

Best for: History

The highlights: Morelia Cathedral, Jardín de las Rosas, Mercado de Dulces, Morelia Aqueduct, Rose Conservatory

What to eat: carnitas, uchepos, chongos zamoranos

Why you should go: Aside from the 200-plus historical buildings made of pink stone, Morelia is a classy haven for art, architecture, music, and food. The zócalo is home to what many argue is the finest cathedral in Mexico. It’s also just 45 minutes from the pueblo magico of Patzcuaro, well worth a day trip.

How to get to Morelia from Mexico City:

From NORTE

The Futura line runs up to 2 departures per day. The journey lasts 5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 531 pesos.

The ETN line runs up to 10 departures per day. The journey lasts 4 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 648 pesos.

From PONIENTE

The ETN line runs up to 10 departures per day. The journey lasts 4 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 648 pesos.

From SUR

The Futura line runs up to 1 departure per day. The journey lasts 5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 704 pesos.

The TuriStar line runs up to 1 departure per day. The journey lasts 5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 679 pesos.

Guanajuato

Best for: Culture

The highlights: Callejón del Beso, Museum of the Mummies, Calle Subterránea, Museum of Diego Rivera, Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato

What to eat: Caldo de oso, enchiladas mineras, Gorditas horneadas

Why you should go: The university town is a maze of brightly colored buildings, lively squares, and an underground tunnel system originally built as a flood defense, but used today for vehicular traffic. Some argue it’s Mexico’s most beautiful city, and I wouldn’t disagree.

How to get to Guanajuato from Mexico City:

From NORTE

The ETN line runs up to 8 departures per day. I’m pushing the 5 hour limit here but I think Guanajuato is worth it. The journey lasts 5 – 5.5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 882 pesos.

The PrimeraPlus line runs up to 8 departures per day. The journey lasts 4.5 – 5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 779 pesos.

Xalapa

Best for: Coffee

The highlights: Museo de Antropología de Xalapa, Parque de los Tecajetes, Palacio de Gobierno, Francisco Javier Clavijero Botanical Garden, its three central markets

What to eat: Mole xiqueño, huachinango a la veracruzana, zazamite

Why you should go: For youthful vibes with a scenic backdrop and plenty of lush vegetation, Xalapa is the best of the tropics without the heat. It sits below the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range and is surrounded by coffee, tobacco, and tropical fruit farms. It’s also a good place to break up the 7+ hour ride if your ultimate destination is the port of Veracruz.

How to get to Xalapa from Mexico City:

From TAPO

The ADO line runs up to 27 departures per day. The journey lasts 4.5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 523 pesos.

From NORTE

The ADO line runs up to 2 departures per day. The journey lasts 4.5 hours. The cost per ticket starts at 566 pesos.

And there you have it! Now, all you have to do is pack. For the ride itself, don’t forget snacks, tissues, headphones, and something to read or watch, (already downloaded). As previously mentioned, wifi is advertised but not guaranteed.

Most importantly — if you haven’t yet been granted a residency card, bring your passport just in case it’s required for boarding. Otherwise, you’ll be Ubering home. Trust me.

Bethany Platanella is a travel planner and lifestyle writer based in Mexico City. She lives for the dopamine hit that comes directly after booking a plane ticket, exploring local markets, practicing yoga and munching on fresh tortillas. Sign up to receive her Sunday Love Letters to your inbox, peruse her blog, or follow her on Instagram.