10 Unwritten Rules in Mexico You NEED TO KNOW Ep17

[@selfscience]

We Mexicans are polite not because we care what people would say, we are polite because in our education, the infinite value of people is a very important and ancient idea. Don’t be polite to fit, love and admire everyone on purpose and you will be naturally polite.

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing such a beautiful perspective! The idea of valuing the infinite worth of people is truly profound and something we deeply admire about Mexican culture. Politeness rooted in genuine love and admiration for others creates such a warm and welcoming community. Your words are an inspiring reminder to approach interactions with intentional kindness. Thank you for sharing this wisdom - it really resonates with us!

[@oldchild527]

In my family it was "treat people as you wish they would treat your family", it works for me, I always see my family in other people's faces, it pains you when they are in trouble and you wish someone help's them because your wish that there's someone to help your family in times of need

[@jacquelinehelgaJohnson-V-ho9ve]

Muy Cierto. Dicen que somos muy directos - it's VERY True - they always Say we're rude - NOW i THINK it's SO NICE to be courteous & polite. just manners.

[@SunnyandHector]

I absolutely loved this video-thank you for sharing such a thoughtful take on the subtleties of Mexican culture! As someone married to a Mexican, I’ve experienced firsthand how these ‘small’ things, like saying 'muchas gracias' and acknowledging others in everyday interactions, create such a powerful sense of connection. At first, saying 'muchas gracias' repeatedly felt a little unnatural, especially when coming from a culture where it’s less frequent, but I quickly realised it’s not just politeness-it’s a way to build warmth and mutual respect. Oh, and 'de nada'-you have to say it! 😄 What I love about your video is how it reminds us that cultural integration isn’t just about learning the ‘what’; it’s about appreciating the ‘why.’ I work with women who are navigating relationships with Mexican partners, and I often say that food and language are the gateways to understanding. Customs like these go beyond etiquette-they reflect the heart of Mexican culture: community, family, and belonging. Thanks for highlighting these important nuances so beautifully! Your content is such a gift for those of us seeking to connect on a deeper level with this incredible culture.

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you so much for your beautiful comment - it truly means a lot to us! We love how you’ve articulated the deeper meaning behind these everyday interactions, like saying ‘muchas gracias’ and ‘de nada.’ You’re absolutely right - it’s about creating warmth, respect, and connection, and it reflects the heart of Mexican culture so well. It’s wonderful that you’re working with women navigating relationships with Mexican partners. Your perspective on food and language being gateways to understanding is so powerful, and we couldn’t agree more. Customs like these really do go beyond etiquette - they embody the values of community and belonging. Thank you for sharing your insights and for connecting with our video on such a meaningful level. We’re so happy to be part of your journey in exploring this incredible culture!

[@mswhatmeworry]

I enjoyed this video, thank-you. One thing that I have noticed frm my times in Mexico (Cancún area) is that when scooting by someone in a grocery aisle for example, you must acknowlege them, typically with "con permiso". I have received dagger-eyes on occasion when I have failed to do this. This custom and other such acknowlegements of strangers, are particularly challenging for me, a lifetime resident of a North American city noteworthy for impersonal anonymity culture.

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for watching and sharing your experience! You’re absolutely right - saying ‘con permiso’ or even a quick nod of acknowledgment is such an important part of everyday interactions in Mexico. It’s interesting how these small gestures can feel so different, especially coming from a culture where anonymity is the norm. Adjusting to these customs can definitely be a challenge at first, but they add such a personal and respectful touch to daily life. It’s all part of the fascinating journey of adapting to a new cultural rhythm. We’re glad you enjoyed the video, and we appreciate you joining the conversation!

[@bernardpaulsen825]

Your best video yet.

[@AandFBeyond]

@@bernardpaulsen825 Thank you so much!

[@evareyes7211]

I LOVETHIS VIDEO THANK YOU FOR TALK ABOUT MEXICO RULES

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for watching, and thanks for your comment!

[@juannoval69]

Great video and fun to hear about the customs in Mexico. I have lived in Spain, Mexico, and the US and still have family in all three. It is interesting how the rules change depending on the country and I find that I have to be aware of those social rules to make sure I don't offend. Anyway, I like it when people are courteous and as the saying goes "lo cortes no quita lo valiente". So, be kind and courteous. Felices fiestas ☺️

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing your experiences-how amazing to have lived in and connected with three such rich and diverse cultures! It’s so true that social rules can vary, and being mindful of them is such an important part of building understanding and respect. We couldn’t agree more with the saying 'lo cortés no quita lo valiente'-kindness and courtesy always go a long way. Wishing you and your family in Spain, Mexico, and the US very felices fiestas! Thanks for watching and for your lovely comment! 😊

[@melindagarcia4497]

Mi desayuno favorito es chilaquiles en salsa verde con huevo.

[@AandFBeyond]

Que rico!

[@Yuyayayu872]

I lived in Germany very recently. I knew this before moving, but it was jarring when actually experiencing it: you don't smile or even look at people walking by in your neighborhood, it's not customary to say excuse me, you just squeeze by and I was even pushed in crowded areas. I was constantly saying excuse me in German, especially at the grocery store, and it made everyone know I was not German, since that word is rarely used.

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing your experience - it’s fascinating how cultural norms can be so different, even when you’re prepared for them! It must have been quite an adjustment to navigate that in Germany, especially when courtesy feels second nature. It’s amazing how something as simple as saying 'excuse me' can reveal so much about where we’re from. Those little cultural nuances really highlight the importance of adapting while also staying true to who we are. Thanks for watching and for sharing your perspective!

[@garrett7101]

So true, Germans seemed really rude to me especially in grocery stores. They would just barge in front of you to get what they wanted instead of waiting.

[@NarsilRenewed]

Ha! As Canadians, we also tend to be easily picked out from thr crowd in some other countries because we apologize excedssively, even when something is not our fault (like, someone bumps into you or stepa on your foot, and you immediately go "Sorry!") Q: What's Canadian for "Ouch!"? A: "Sorry!"

[@AandFBeyond]

@@NarsilRenewed hahahaha. Interesting.

[@alannahprestaynofbraavos5759]

I’m so glad to be a New Yorker of a certain age! We do say hello to store vendors and thank you when we leave; it’s the people not from NYC who don’t say that. And we eat pizza 🍕 and other street food with our hands! My stepdad’s dad is from Bangladesh 🇧🇩, so we eat with our hands often 🥰. Thanks for all the tips!

[@AandFBeyond]

Interesting perspective on NYC. Thanks for your comment!! Glad you found the video helpful.

[@mwiebe2663]

It may not be an absolute social requirement, but it is very common to ask about someone’s mother and family. And to send them “saludos”!

[@AandFBeyond]

Absolutely! Asking about someone’s mother and family, and sending ‘saludos,’ is such a beautiful way to show care and connection. It’s one of those cultural gestures that feels so genuine and warm, and it really reinforces the importance of family and relationships. Thank you for highlighting this lovely custom - it’s such a meaningful part of daily life! Saludos!!

[@NarsilRenewed]

Solid content, thank you, subscribing

[@AandFBeyond]

Much appreciated!

[@mariettajones3093]

I've lived in mexico of and on for 15 years in Puebla. And it took me a long time to adapt to how polite the mexicans are. On thing, and if you know what it means please share, i havent been able to understand what it means when they say: "al RATO, nos vemos". What dies RATO mean in actual time. I had a friend that said this to me, and 3 years latter, im still waiting for her 😂😂😂😂 Also, i love it when you are in a restaurant eating and everyone that comes in says: BUON PROVECHO. And anyone leaving does the same thing. Beautiful customs, beautiful culture. Im planning to move to mexico very soon. Just dealing with health issues but cant wait to move. Happy new year. Enjoyed your videos❤

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing your experience and kind words! Isn’t it amazing how those little gestures, like ‘buen provecho’, make everyday interactions so special here? Regarding ‘al rato’, it’s one of those flexible phrases in Mexico! Literally, it means ‘later,’ but the actual time can be anywhere from a few minutes to an undefined point in the future-it’s more about the sentiment than a set timeframe. Your story about waiting for three years made us laugh - so relatable! We’re so glad you’re enjoying the culture and traditions, and we wish you the best with your health as you prepare for the big move. Happy New Year to you, and thank you for watching and supporting us! ❤

[@mariettajones3093]

Thank you for clarifying .... I'll try not to take it so literal next time. Happy new year to you also. 🎉

[@SilverAukahzy]

it's "Buen provecho" because it's in spanish, not italian.

[@jeffsitka]

Your comments regarding email communication are on point. They apply to text messaging as well in my experience.

[@AandFBeyond]

Yes. Texting definitely applies. Francisco didn’t know he was coming across as “dry” by not starting with a greeting until someone pointed out. Glad they said something!!

[@christianfimbres9236]

The sign with the finger to signify "yes" comes from a popular TV program called "El Chavo del 8", I think.

[@AandFBeyond]

Really? We didn’t realize that’s where it started! Thanks for your comment.

[@GlobalAdventurer]

One thing that's not mentioned on most vlogs like this, is the fact that the locals will stick together on an issue even if it is wrong. They won't be too eager to back a foreigner, and many are very private when it comes to their household, and therefore won't be welcoming you with open arms into their homes. There's exceptions of course, but that's their culture and they don't like to admit they are wrong or be confronted in anyway. They would rather go into hiding.😁

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing your perspective. Cultural differences like the ones you mentioned can definitely shape interactions, and it’s always valuable to approach them with understanding and patience. While it’s true that privacy and close-knit communities are important values in many parts of Mexico, we’ve also experienced incredible warmth and kindness from locals over the years. Building trust and relationships often takes time, but the connections can be deeply rewarding. It’s all part of navigating and appreciating cultural nuances. We’re grateful for your insight and for joining the conversation!

[@GlobalAdventurer]

@@AandFBeyond That's why I said there's exceptions. I've been a permanent resident for seven years now and have experienced both sides of the spectrum.

[@edwardmoran1739]

Very well done, thank you!

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you too!

[@peacefulself7848]

Thank you so much for the information!❤

[@AandFBeyond]

No problem 😊

[@JoseAugusto-oc9hu]

Es Panecito jajajajajaja , estuvo muy genial su video, espero ver mas de Mexico

[@AandFBeyond]

Jajajaja. Gracias!!

[@Littlebird50]

I am 74 and from the southern part of the U.S., this exactly what I learned growing up here. When you see anyone on the street say Good Morning , how are you ? and really mean it. When in the grocery store if you must walk in front of someone say excuse me and smile. When did things change here ? I still obey the rules of politeness .

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing! It’s so heartwarming to hear that you’ve held onto these beautiful traditions of kindness and connection. Politeness truly never goes out of style, and it’s inspiring to know you still practice it every day. It’s unfortunate that some of these gestures seem less common now in certain places, but it’s a reminder of how much impact small acts of respect and friendliness can have. We can all take a page from your book and keep these traditions alive!

[@floatippity]

❤ Mexico!!!!!!😍😍😍😍

[@AandFBeyond]

Siiii

[@selfscience]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="968">16:08</a> There is an exception for the not rush rule and that is when a non reservation restaurant is full and there are people waiting to get in, sometimes in the middle of the day for comida, when everyone has to return to their jobs soon. sometimes they play fast or a bit loud music. You understand that you should take your reunion somewhere else.

[@AandFBeyond]

That’s a great point- thank you for sharing! It’s true that there are moments when being mindful of others, like in a busy restaurant with people waiting, takes precedence. It’s fascinating how even in these situations, there’s a subtle cultural cue, like the music, to gently remind everyone of the rhythm of the day. We love how these unspoken rules reflect consideration for others’ time and space. Thanks for adding this insight - it’s such an interesting nuance!

[@moremusic691]

Maybe the sign with the finger for saying yes is from "el Chavo" the Chespirito character that said "eso, eso, eso...." Using the finger

[@AandFBeyond]

It could be! That show brings us back to our youth!

[@manueljnegrete5048]

Hi, I am Californian and the one that always confused me was the nick names based on appearance especially from a culture that is so kind to others. In my childhood I recall names of family friends such as Don Gollo laganas. Don Juan el panzon, etc. But if I truly want to live the american dream then I must move to Guadalajara Chapala area where my family originally came from. I went to visit an aunt to Guadalajara in 1972 and fell in love with the land and people.

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing such a personal and insightful comment! The nicknames based on appearance can definitely feel surprising at first, especially coming from such a warm and kind culture. It’s fascinating how these nicknames are often used affectionately, even though they might seem unusual to outsiders. Your connection to Guadalajara and the Chapala area sounds so special - what a beautiful dream to return to the land and people that captured your heart! It’s amazing how places can leave such a lasting impression. Wishing you the best on your journey toward living your dream!

[@StanH1966]

My family (Dad) referred to me as "cabezon," which was slang translated as "big head." Eventually, the entire neighborhood called me that. Some of my friends still do. I hated it as a kid, but now, when I think of my Dad, it makes me smile. BTW, my response was "more head, more brains." 😉

[@NarsilRenewed]

​@@AandFBeyondI kind of suspect this might be due to the fact that sarcasm and irony seem to be pretty essential to many Latin cultures, and fundamental to their sense of humour. (I might be wrong, this is just my impression)

[@cmdgdl]

I would say “panecito”, just because “pancito” sounds like “pancita” (like small belly)😊

[@mwiebe2663]

I’ve only seen the index finger wagging up and down to say yes among my Mexican friends. When I’ve asked my friends from other Latin American countries, they don’t use that gesture. I agree it seems more common in younger people (maybe under 50?? Although I’m 63 and I do it now…) I’ve personally also noticed it done more by women than men, but maybe I just haven’t paid attention…

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing your observations! It’s so interesting how certain gestures can be specific to particular cultures or even age groups. The index finger wagging to say yes definitely seems to be a uniquely Mexican trait, and it’s fascinating how you’ve picked it up too! We hadn’t thought about it possibly being more common among women - now you’ve got us wanting to pay closer attention to see if that’s the case. These little cultural quirks are so fun to notice and talk about - thanks for adding to the conversation!

[@crystalgarcia2143]

People from Honduras have a funny way to point at something or someone they Don't use the finger like everyone else they use their lips like blowing a kiss lol

[@mwiebe2663]

@@crystalgarcia2143 “Lip pointing” is common throughout Central America and many other Latin American countries. It’s usually accompanied by a slight movement of the head and raising of the eyebrows. One more thing that’s so second nature to me I forget it’s not universal. Although even non-Latin Americans seem to understand what I mean when I do it.

[@mwiebe2663]

@@AandFBeyond I seem to pick up accents and gestures unconsciously. One friend even observed how I “code switch” when speaking Spanish, depending on if I’m with Colombians vs. Mexicans vs. Guatemalans vs. Argentines, for instance. Not only using “vos” vs. “tu” vs. “Ud”, but also refri vs nevera (Colombia) vs heladera (Argentina). O “friJOLes” (México/Central America) vs “FRIjoles” (Colombia) vs “porotos” (el Cono Sur). Or palta vs aguacate, fruta bomba vs papaya, etc. Once when I was in Argentina, someone came up to me at a restaurant and asked if I was Central American based on my accent. It is interesting, because the first Spanish I learned was with Guatemalan and Salvadoran refugees in the US in the early 1980s.

[@AandFBeyond]

@@crystalgarcia2143 Yes! Having Guatemalan and Nicaraguan backgrounds, we do that too! jajaja

[@2ndlife-ql1hc]

As from Europe and Asia, about tipping I don't think 15% or 10% is norm here in Mexico, it is actually even lower. what you said might be true about San Miguel, where not many NorteAmericans have de facto raised up, but I traveled many other non touristy places, over there I asked many locals Mexicans who lived almost their whole life there, they told me and I saw they just round up, for example, we ate 190 pesos, and just round up to 200 pesos is totally fine, you calculate the 10/190 is less around 5% is okay 🎉

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing your experience! You’re absolutely right that tipping norms can vary greatly across Mexico, especially between touristy and non-touristy areas. In places like San Miguel, where there’s a larger foreign and tourist presence, tipping 10-15% has become more common. However, in smaller towns or more local spots, rounding up as you described is often considered perfectly acceptable. It’s always great to ask locals and adapt to the customs of the area you're visiting. Thanks for adding this valuable perspective!

[@2ndlife-ql1hc]

@AandFBeyond and also depends you pay cash or card? If you choose pay by card, especially credit cards recognizable from America or somehow they assume you are NorteAmericans, and can present you a charging terminal with 15% or more preset default. But you pay with pesos cash, or can speak some Spanish, behaved like a local, have exact round up amount of cash, even in touristy places, for example my food costs 285 pesos, I give 300 pesos, it's less than 5% but they're more happily accepted. Please share this as non American I never like the American over tipping culture. It's ripping off.

[@AandFBeyond]

@@2ndlife-ql1hc Thank you so much for your insight!

[@mwiebe2663]

It never even occurred to me to think of chicken with breakfast as unusual, but I guess from a North of Border perspective it kind of is. Although I come from a non-Hispanic/non-Latin American background, I’ve been immersed in the culture since age 21, with influences from all over Latin America (mostly Mexico, Guatemala & other Central American countries, and Colombia, as well as influences from dear friends from Chile and Argentina). I sometimes forget how foreign some customs can be to those from NOB, because they are completely normal to me. I, too, will sometimes greet people on an elevator and get strange looks. Or with my family of origin or non-Latin American friends, it feels so strange to arrive at a gathering and not go around giving each person a greeting with a hug/handshake/air kiss. And then to leave without doing the same. Also to talk about something planned for the future without saying “primero Dios” or “Dios mediante”. Todos mis amigas/amigos latinoamericanos dicen que nací en el lugar equivocado porque en la cultura latina me siento más “yo”. ❤

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you for sharing such a beautiful reflection! It’s amazing how deeply immersed you are in Latin American culture-it clearly feels like home to you. The customs you describe, from greeting everyone personally to saying ‘primero Dios,’ are such meaningful expressions of connection and community. It’s true that some of these can feel foreign to those from NOB, but they’re part of what makes the culture so rich and warm. And we totally relate to getting strange looks for being friendly in unexpected places - sometimes those little cultural habits stick with you no matter where you are! It sounds like you’ve found where your heart belongs, and that’s such a gift. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@oscargluja426]

"Hola😊" Is enough. "how's the family and kids?" is not required. PANECITO 👍 = fine

[@AandFBeyond]

@@oscargluja426 Hola!! Thanks for your comment.

[@49Lika50]

Great info. We look forward to seeing you (again, after our brief encounter of the street during a parade earlier this year) so we can give you a hug and a non-wet kiss on the cheek. We still have not sold our Maui home, so we have not yet made our permanent move to San Miguel de Allende.

[@AandFBeyond]

Thank you so much for your kind words! We remember how festive and fun the parades are here - what a great way to have crossed paths! Sending you a virtual hug and a non-wet cheek kiss back. Fingers crossed for the sale of your Maui home; we know that’s a big step. Whenever the timing feels right, San Miguel will be here to welcome you with open arms. Wishing you all the best in this transition!

[@49Lika50]

​@@AandFBeyond Muchas Gracias, Dawn y Rick

[@waynevandermeer3050]

i think youll see mexicanos wearing shorts in the tourist towns..not all but enough to notice. theyre catching on to us.

[@AandFBeyond]

@@waynevandermeer3050 Yep. We have noticed that too.

[@greggbambu411]

This a latin American thing not just México.

[@AandFBeyond]

Great point! Many of these customs, like politeness and community-oriented gestures, are indeed shared across Latin America. It’s amazing how these cultural similarities create such a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the region. Thanks for highlighting that!

[@outsideguy02]

If you want something right now use a double - ahorita ahorita, it will generally work to define that you mean right now. Also I was told that they generally use the entire pig for carnitas, hard to find bacon or anything other than turkey ham at the supermarkets.

[@AandFBeyond]

We get our bacon from Costco 😅