Building Relationships with Locals and Foreigners in Mexico

Mexico's rich culture and diverse population offer numerous opportunities to build meaningful relationships with locals and expatriates. Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-term resident, fostering connections can enhance your experience in this vibrant metropolis. Here are some effective strategies that work for me when I’m meeting new people.

Attend Networking Events

One of the best ways to meet people is by attending networking events. These gatherings often attract a mix of locals and foreigners, providing a relaxed atmosphere for mingling. Look for industry-specific meetups or general networking events on platforms like Meetup or Eventbrite. Keep an eye out for professional associations or business groups relevant to your field if you’re interested in working in the country later on.

Join Groups Like Internations

Internations is a global community for expatriates that hosts various events, including social gatherings, workshops, and cultural experiences. Joining Internations can help you connect with fellow expatriates and locals interested in intercultural exchange. The events provide a welcoming environment to share experiences, make friends, and gain insights into the local culture.

Take Classes or Workshops

Consider enrolling in language classes*, cooking workshops, or art courses outside of your university. These settings naturally encourage interaction and provide a shared interest to bond over. Plus, learning something new can lead to organic connections with both locals and fellow expats who are also looking to integrate into the community.

*Seriously, I can't say this enough: learning Spanish is the best way to have a safe and authentic Mexican experience!! If you want a head start, read my article "How not to be a Gringo" 😉

Volunteer

Volunteering for local charities or community projects is a rewarding way to meet people and give back. Many organizations welcome volunteers, providing opportunities to work alongside locals and other expatriates who share a passion for social causes. This can deepen your understanding of local issues while fostering connections with people who care about similar topics.

There are lots of opportunities to volunteer in Mexico that provide other benefits for travellers as well. Internations has a volunteer group in Mexico City, which is a good starting point. Beyond that, sites like Worldpackers, Volunteer HQ, and Workaway are known volunteering sites worldwide.

Now, if you know me, then you definitely know I love turtles. Mexicos' Pacific coast has turtle-specific volunteer programs near Puerta Vallarta that are worth checking out. Alas, I have yet to do them myself, but they're on the bucket list. Here are two that are well-regarded and could be interesting for fellow turtle lovers: Project Tortuga | IFRE Volunteers

Use Social Media and Apps

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X can be powerful tools for connecting with others. Join local groups focused on expat life, cultural exchange, or specific interests (like food, art, or sports). Engaging with these online communities can lead to offline meetups and friendships.

Facebook isn’t just for moms in Mexico! It’s still very popular among young people, and lots of businesses use a Facebook page instead of a traditional website. 

Explore Local Events and Festivals

Mexico is rich in cultural events, from festivals to art exhibitions. Attend these events to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet people. Whether it’s a music festival, food market, or art show, these gatherings often attract a diverse crowd, offering ample opportunities for conversation and connection. If you want to learn more about events and festivals, you can read my article “Exploring Festivals and Events in Mexico”. 

In the end

Building relationships with locals and foreigners in Mexico can significantly enrich your experience in this dynamic country. By engaging in networking events, joining groups like Internations and participating in classes or volunteer work, you’ll create a network of friends and acquaintances that will enhance your understanding of the culture and community. Embrace the opportunity to connect, and you’ll find that Mexico has a welcoming spirit that makes it easy to form lasting bonds.