15 MEXICO TIPS that took us WAY TOO LONG to learn

[@TangerineTravels]

What's something about Mexico that took YOU too long to learn? 🇲🇽 P.S. if you want sneak peeks into our upcoming videos and other behind-the-scenes goodies, subscribe to our email newsletter aw194924.aweb.page/tangerine-travels-email-newsletter-sign-up-

[@spiderman-iq9zz]

Hello a famous of KZbin from Tangerine travels

[@anabelltrejo258]

]vying

[@ventana100]

I'm Mexican living in Mexico and I still don't get used to all the introductory conversations before talking about the actual point. Overall I'm good when that happens in person but now that those kinds of interactions are translated into Whatsapp, for example, I found that sometimes it's too much because virtual conversations are slower.

[@lauriedawes6003]

@Tangerine Travels. LOL! Great set of hints, most of which I am fortunately aware! One thing I saw yesterday that I misinterpreted - I was watering plants on my garage roof and some water sprinkled down onto the road below. I heard a loud comment that included "agua". I peered over the edge to see a man walking up the street who looked rather annoyed. He appeared to be adjusting his hat but now, after seeing your video, I realize that he was doing that rude hand gesture up and over his head! I apologized profusely! Another use of the flashing hazard lights is to slow down and put on your hazard lights when you are traveling in a torrential downpour, which you will experience this summer during the rainy season. Very useful because sometimes it is difficult to see much ahead during a downpour. We don't usually haggle with prices either, but I have seen other expats do it in inappropriate instances such as when buying plants from a garden nursery when the plants are already much cheaper here than in the U.S. I find it rude of Americans to always be asking for a discount when they have so much and many of the Mexican people have so little in comparison. I often find that vendors in a flea market or elsewhere will often lower the price a few seconds after giving their first price without me even asking. I now think that this could be a sales technique to make you think you are getting a discount/deal!

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

VERY INTERESTING VIDEO, muchas! Some comments on your tutelage follows: >> Hand gestures can be so misinterpreted! I just use thumbs up to mean anything positive so that it CANNOT confuse anyone! 😉 >> Mexico uses Euro sizing. Maddie, if you have size 24 feet, you're a baby! I think you meant to say 34 cm. I wear a size 40 cm. Shopping at Zara taught me alll about European sizing. >> Take T.P. everywhere, say I! Too much toilet paper is always better than not having ... ANY! 😳 😨 >> Asking for paper receipts here in America, comes very naturally to me. I am old fashioned enough to looove paper trails, ha, ha. 🙂

[@willpina]

The hand motion to say thanks comes from old times when people would reach to take their hat off to show gratitude. That's why your hand reaches to your forehead level

[@miguel-h]

💯

[@julianv1828]

I'm mexican and didn't know that. Cool!

[@cheyopimienta]

The other one, in wich you close your fist and make an upper, circular motion towards the back of your head does mean F your mom and it's the most offensive hand sign in Mexico.

[@Sonderonyt]

Do both men and women use that gesture.

[@judyprocleaning]

Actually I heard my das saying that it was a fact when a poor man took his hat off when he met a richer guy specially in small towns where people got to know each other.. my das never did that he taught it was racist or when in our catholic country México the men used to put the hat down to the sacerdote or woman as a sign of respect

[@jfperez_quijas8403]

Good morning Jordan, Maddie and Laska, I know at front I am not your intended target watcher. However, I love your videos. As you see in my first line, I am Mexican. I lived more than 20 years in the US and feel so proud of my Mexican roots. So, when I see your videos with that unbiased, fresh and trustable point of view I just know that I really am a Tangerine. And at the end I recommend to all my friends your channel. You are been constantly improving and got very good and accurate information.

[@arturowagner4728]

You guys are like regular anthropologists! You are very observant and insightful! As Mexican, I endorse this video! PS I liked it so much, I watched it twice in a row....

[@navyretired230]

Maddie is glowing. You guys seem so much happier these days. Thank you for sharing your experiences. I experienced the hand juster once and now I understand. All these years I have thought I did something worng

[@sgtfrankrock8875]

Jordan is glowing too.

[@Rick-gy8fz]

They split up...

[@gretchen8472]

I've been living in Mexico for 35 years, and all of these you guys mentioned are like second nature to me now. I haven't even thought of most of them for ages! LOL Another thing that takes some getting used to are the many sounds as vendors selling their wares: tamalero, knife sharpener, the guy selling camotes, the cow bell announcing the trash pickup. OMG There are so many! (That might also be a fun video to put together). Love you guys!

[@Trabaegocer]

The ice cream truck, bread vendors and the guy selling elotes and empanadas are also very typical sounds

[@daniellares7237]

El gaaaasssss

[@bobtoledo8353]

El panadero con el pan 🥐 🥖 el panadero con el pan 🍞 🥐 🎶 🎵

[@robertosierra9820]

Agua Ciel!!!

[@mikecameron4918]

If you guys haven't done one yet, could you do a video on common gestures used in Mexico and maybe one with Etiquette? You touched on a few in this video, but I think these are very helpful! Love you guys! Be well!

[@elefanteluzvioleta]

I loved your video. I ask the tourist or expats living in Mexico not to negotiate prices with the street vendors specially the elderly ones. So many people in Mexico live in poverty and make a living selling their produce or the crafts they make themselves. And most of the time the prices are already very cheap. Unless you think the prices are unreasonable then I agree with negotiating. I have an aunt that always wants to negotiate prices wven when the price is already very cheap and is obvious that the person selling is not making much money at all. This aunt in particular is retired with a good retirement and her grown children make lots of money. So I asked her when she was negotiating a bracelet sold for 10 pesos by one of the indigenous woman in Chiapas to stop trying to lower the price on the items being sold by this poor ppl. I asked my aut is she only wanted her children to earn lots of money but what about the rest of the ppl? We don't bargain when we go to Dillards, walmart, marshalls, COSTCO..etc...etc...so why do tourists think Mexicans do not deserve to earn a decent amount of money for the stuff they grow or make? God has been so good to me that I make it a point to always give extra as a form of a tip to the Mexican ppl. I hope I dont offend anyone with my comments but I know how little Mexicans earn specially the ppl selling their goods on the streets.

[@wallihaley5194]

Celia Garcia, great point!

[@Mountshasta]

Totally true!!

[@cherch]

I wish I could give more that 1 thumb up to this comment

[@tonynes3577]

It's true, its always very important to ask "How are you" first before starting a conversation, even if its just in a text.

[@bazia7927]

I think in the US a lack of etiquette/informality has lead to a lack of empathy. Asking how someone is should be common decency and inform how to communicate in an appropriate manner. Caring for each other is something many need to learn/relearn. It’s likely another result of the fear fed to us as a frequent diet from the media. Thanks for sharing such great and valuable information.

[@anandaadidevi2339]

@@bazia7927 Yes. I think it's a generational thing. I still ask everyone how they are before staring a conversation and have lived in the U.S. my entire life. I consider it common courtesy.

[@annastayziaa]

i wonder what the honk with that tune means....

[@darth1491]

Jordan, about the invoice thing (“recibo”, “nota”, “boleto”...) you can safely use ticket (“tíquet”) almost everywhere. “Recibo” or “nota” should be understood as synonyms; “boleto” is mostly used as the paper giving you right to board or enter somewhere, and yes “factura” is reserved for the legal document that reports the buy/sell to the Tax Authority. Almost safe to say that if you paid in cash or in a local/small store, no “factura” would be involved

[@pacosilva2693]

Hey you guys love the video . I m from Guadalajara and I just wanted to mention I think you forgat to mention that around payday pick pockets are very active so you need to be a little bit more cautious around paydays so you don't get your purse stolen or worse. Love the show.

[@TangerineTravels]

Thanks for bringing that up! We recently heard those two days of the month are super dangerous because people get robbed more often 😩

[@jaime_ejc]

That depends the state. In Jalisco maybe, here in Yucatán it doesn't happen at all. I have never been robbed in my 38 years or life. Saludos desde Yucatán.

[@alexbriseno566]

I live in Ciudad Juarez which is considered one of the 2 most Dangerous places in Mexico, And I've NEVER heard about pick pocketers on Paydays(Or any day) And I don't even live in a Safe or beautiful looking Colonia, So I'm guessing it's mostly a Guadalajara Thing 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@maryjohnson753]

@The Taco Kawaii Yes and the Chinese government knows everywhere you go & everything you do 24 hours per day. It's big brother watching you. No thanks we don't need that here. Read the book called 1984 (written in 1948 by George Orwell).

[@colleenbrown92]

@@maryjohnson753 thats hilarious 🤣 you have a Google account they already know everything about you

[@marylh914]

Thank you! You just made life a lot easier for those who travel and move to Mexico, and for those Mexicans who have to tolerate our ignorance! This is much needed info, so please do more on this subject.

[@jbw53191]

Excellent video and so very helpful! I just arrived in Ajijic a week ago and am in love with this place. BTW, I used your link to Rocket Spanish before I came and it was so very helpful. Thank you for your videos. I can tell you put a LOT of thought into your work. It is very much appreciated.

[@AlakranGtz]

Ask for "la cuenta" and you'll always get your consumption quantity 😉 No matter where you go, people will understand that you want to know how much you have to pay for your consumption PRO TIP: If you are at a restaurant or bar and you make a gesture of "writing on air" to your waiter, he'll know that you want "la cuenta" 😁

[@angelrobles7201]

Some places also call it "La Dolorosa" (The Painful One), because it's a painful time when you realize your "simple break" had turned into a mini-fiesta of sorts: your wallet is in pain now. Have in mind though, that in some other places, "La Dolorosa" could be a drink.

[@goldvideo]

Do they ever use "me cobras?" in Mexico? (It means, "can you charge me?".) This is frequently used in Spain and it kind of subtly separates you from the way tourists say it. Also, in Spain, "la comida" definitely means lunch and they know what almuerzo means but typically don't use that word. I didn't realize that Mexico was the same way. Also typically the word "el tiquet" is used in España to mean the receipt.

[@angelrobles7201]

@@goldvideo It's also used. Also, the phrase can be changed to "se cobra, por favor?" ("can you charge it, please?"), which might sound weird, but that phrase is alluding to the service provided ("can you charge _the service_ , please?")

[@Red-fg9qr]

@@goldvideo "me cobras?" can be seen as rude as it can be seen as an order, rather use "la cuenta, por favor", one way to ask for it if the waitress is far away but coming to you is making a signature gesture with the hand like if you were signing in the air. They will get it.

[@robertolemus3053]

"la cuenta" always works, en "frontera" o "interior" de país. I will never be misunderstood. Love your videos guys!

[@TheNachoman8]

Love being part of your exclusive club! Love the way you see, experiment and love my country. Greetings from México city.

[@Suzannes_Trip]

I knew within the first minute this was one of the most informative travel videos I've seen. Thank you!

[@dianawestrup7416]

I'm Mexican, so that makes me have a point of view, of course. May I tell you ... You guys made me laugh! / Some cultural points: The index finger movement comes from a character extremely popular not only in Mexico, but in Latin America and beyond. The Chavo del Ocho, by the writer and actor Roberto Gómez Bolaños, "Chespirito". This tv series ran for many years and the boy, the "chavo", made this gesture when he meant "yes". So many sayings and gestures come from this tv program, actually several. More than ten, I bet... Greetings from Cancun, Tangerines!

[@jackking2225]

I always wonder how Mexicans would react if I tried out different slang expressions or used the índex finger - would it seem natural or just kind of lame. I've embarassed myself many times when I didn't realize what words like "comida" or "mamacita" actually mean. One thing I got to say is Mexicans are too polite to laugh at you or maybe they're surpressing a laugh. Sometimes while speaking Spanish I might add a word like "pinche" when it seems natural enough in the conversation. I've said "pinche Trump" a few times. When you want to tell someone to watch out saying "aguas" gets the point across real fast.

[@carlosreyes6664]

@@jackking2225 If I saw an american doing the finger sight "yes" that would be funny, also the phrase "pinche trump" sounds hilarious xD

[@jgoodygoods512]

Such a wealth of very accurate insider information! Que lindas las calles de Querétaro!

[@richardsteinbergmakingknives]

Y'all are the best. Both my brother and I watch regularly. Thanks for all you do.

[@terryashley4674]

I love Mexico. Never been there before, but I love it there. 😀

[@davidvalle1048]

It's called "La Quincena" when workers get paid on the 15th & 30th. Yes, It's a very good idea to avoid most shopping, restaurants, and especially banks on those days. Most workers will be getting their money and spending it as soon as they can. It's an easy thing to forget until you find yourself out and about and see the long lines everywhere. Funny Jorden mentioned the "M" on the bathrooms, I have made the mistake several times when I wasn't thinking, Just went with the habit of M for Men. Never had a problem with bathrooms that say Caballeros though. Agree on driving points, the flashers are definitely used for everything. Even when I'm driving, my Mexican wife will put the flashers on when she thinks we need to, and I'm like Porque?

[@erika1935]

Oh man, the bathroom story! Yes, I made the opposite mistake once in a bar under similar circumstances...saw the "M" and was like, we'll that's not the one I want...but oh it was!

[@FilosParaSofia]

I am so glad to have catorcena instead of quincena. Mad times.

[@adrianvargas4642]

That is the beauty of spanish, the language is so deep, and poetic. There's many words for one thing. But tipically " me da mi recibo por favor" Will get you your receipt,

[@jorgearmando1979]

Great video! The hand gesture to say thanks is from the inside to outside, like mimicking having a hat in your hand and doing the "take my hat off" gesture ! It usually comes accompanied with a nod of the head and gesture must be gentle not fast!

[@winshifter]

Regarding food times and names in Mexico and this apply to the whole country. Desayuno is a light breakfast like having just a cup of coffe or juice and something rather light to eat like a small bread (pan dulce) or cookies or toast bread with butter, very light. Desayuno is often as early as 5 am in the morning to around 9 am in the morning. Almuerzo is a more heavy breakfast, usually this is where you can eat like eggs with beans, sandwiches, chilaquiles, or for example tacos as a breakfast, like tacos of barcacoa, chicharron or something like that, is more heavy than breakfast but lighter than lunch. Menudo or Pozole are often eaten as almuerzo. Almuerzo is eaten and served mostly around 8 am to 11:59 am(yes, some restaurants have this litteral schedule to finish almuerzo) in the morning, though sometimes can be as early as 7 am. Comida is the main meal in the Spanish dinning course, this is like dinner in US, where you eat more heavy meals, this could be Enchiladas con Arroz y verduras, Caldo de Pollo or Res, Tinga de Pollo with Rice, Chiles en Nogada, just to name some of the most famous dishes known in the world and when they are really eaten. Comida is usually served between 12 pm to around 3 pm though some restaurants will extend this all the way to 6 pm. Merienda is a light sanck you eat in the afternoon, similar to UK's tea time and similar to desayuno, very light, this can include pan dulce, gorditas dulces, churros, doughnuts. Beverages can include tea, chocolate with milk, coffe and juice. Usually it would be eaten between 4pm and 7 pm. Cena is a light meal in the night...but lately it has become in some areas in Mexico a little more close to Comida in some instances. Most people often eat things you would eat in Almuerzo, like Chilaquiles, Menudo, Pozole, Scrambled Eggs with beans, quesadillas, tacos, burritos. Hamburguers and pizza for example are considered more like Cena dish than Comida dish, but can also be consumed in Comida time though usually as casual comida dish, not a full comida course. Cena can start as early as 7pm and as late as 11pm or 12 am. Now, of the five, people in Mexico will only have three with Comida being the mandatory one. So, for example, an average person in Mexico will have Desayuno-Comida-Cena skipping Almuerzo and Merienda, some others will have Almuerzo-Comida-Cena, skipping Desayuno and Merienda. Merienda is more like a casual thing you would have once or twice every month or couple of weeks...or you had a very light Comida. So, to summarize everything Desayuno = very, if not extremely, light breakfast. Almuerzo = full breakfast Comida = the equivalent of dinner in the US. Merienda = similar to UK's tea time, could be called "snack time". Cena = the equivalent of lunch in the US. Regarding Factura, Ticket, Receipt, Boleto Factura would be like the invoice, but in Mexico Factura is meant for legal taxes. Mexican taxes requires a Factura, this will require your Taxing(as in taxes) information in order to create one. Every Facura in Mexico is electronic, means that you rarely get a physical paper with the amounts and deductions of what you bought, instead you get in your mail two documents, a PDF document with the actual invoice or Factura and an XML document with the metadata information of the Factura. In Mexico, the tax system is what in the US is called "Return Free Filling", basically the goverment already has done all calculations of your taxes and you just have to check if their calculation is correct or they have missed something, for this you require to have all your legal invoices at hand, in this case Facturas. Since all of those are sent to you to your registered mail and have all the metadata available to you, if something is missing, all you have to do is upload it to the system and the SAT (Mexican IRS) will just validate the data and update the information. In Mexico, doing your taxes in April is as simple as ordering from Uber Eats or something like that, it will only get weird when something is not in the system and you have to updload things, but once you do, it goes back to simple. Of course, this becomes quite troublesome for Restaurants, Convinience Stores, Large Stores or anyone who runs a bussiness, but that comes with the territory. If you go to a store and the ask you "Require Factura" they're asking if you want it for Mexican Taxes. Ticket is basically the same as the print ticket you get from Oxxo, sevenelevens or stores that prints tickets when you buy something, it has no legal meaining in Mexico except some places for warranty, like when you buy a TV or computer or something like that. Nota is like a Ticket but done manually. Boleto is like the ticket you get in Movie theaters to get in, buses, airplanes or concerts. Legally they do nothing in Mexico except perhaps some bus tickets and airplane tickets, as some carry a small insurance in case of accident and that depends on city and state in Mexico. Recibo is like Nota, but in some places in Mexico is the same as Factura. To summarize Factura = legal taxing ticket, is electronic and requires your tax information. Ticket = The printed ticket you get when buying something, you can use this word for any ticked, nota or recibo interchangeably in the whole Mexico. Nota = the same as ticket but done manualy by someone. Recibo = Same as ticket and Nota, but in some areas in Mexico will be the equivalent of Factura, so use that sporadically. Boleto = A pass used for concerts, movie theaters, busses and planes or trains, pretty straight forward.

[@margaritaht8553]

Vivo en Querétaro y me pareció muy divertido escuchar descripciones tan literales de lo cotidiano. Me gusta su estilo.

[@XinoXanoLatinoamerica]

Querétaro!!! Una de nuestras ciudades favoritas!!! Un abrazo viajeros!!!

[@darr1954]

As always, a great video! Before I went on an LDS mission to Central America, my father (WWII veteran) strongly advised me to always remember that I was a GUEST in THEIR country. I followed that advice and do to this day whenever I travel internationally. You two seem to display the kind of courtesy and warmth that my dad spoke of. Saludos desde Colorado! Viva TT!

[@jaimecavazos3417]

OMG love the chirping birds.🐦

[@TheTwoTravelersInMexico]

Fantastic video, an absolute must watch especially for people that are newly arrived in Mexico. There is a lot of very helpful information for people here especially in social situations and driving. -Marc

[@gabrielvillegas3926]

We also say "provecho" every time we walk into a restaurant.

[@angelrobles7201]

Which normally is answered with the "Thank you!" gesture, 'cause they are eating and it's uneducated to talk with your mouth full.

[@timgibbs4762]

What does provecho mean in context?

[@angelrobles7201]

@@timgibbs4762 It doesn't have a straight translation, but it comes from "aprovechar" (take advantage of). Basically, you're wishing them that the food feeds them, that they enjoy it, that it does them well.

[@Carolina-yo1kw]

@@timgibbs4762 it's the shorter way to say "buen provecho", which you may know as "bon appetit", basically is just wishing the other person to enjoy their meal

[@boaz7545]

This was super helpful. I love this kind of content. Thanks!

[@1200Moises]

Love these tips guys they have been helpful in understanding Mexico culture

[@toddruth8312]

As the gentleman said....you are both straight up anthropologists. I've also been here in Mexico for 3 years and you guys taught me several things that I should know especially for safety's sake when I'm driving around. This content is wildly interesting particularly as Mexicans chime in and give some background color the the why and wherefore customs are the way they are. Give us more....por favor.

[@juliocesarsalazargarcia6872]

About the Mexican hand gesture meaning "thank you". Think about a gentleman taking off his hat just a few inches above his head and nodding a little just to say "thank you" or "good morning" to another person. That is the intention of the hand gesture, is just that at least in the cities in this day and age most of us do not use hats anymore, except maybe for basebal caps or something like that.

[@66gtoify]

My wife and I love your videos. We lived in Mazatlan for 3 years, from 2007 to 2010, and we loved it. Every time we hear the birds chirping in your videos, it brings back good memories. If we had the money and weren't so old we would move back in a heartbeat. We loved Mazatlan and Guanajuato with its tunnels that ran under the city. Please keep the videos coming.

[@brettd3206]

My go to is "la cuenta, por favor". Don't know if it's correct, but it works.

[@sylviarios5389]

I always look forward to your videos, I love being a faithful tangerinie, love you guys from California

[@Hammocktraveller]

You are right about words having different meanings, although it is Spanish. Like in Spain you can "coger un taxi", tomar is for drinks. But don't do that in Mexico. Also, many times, mañana is not always tomorrow, but "not today". Many Mexican are very polite and they won't say no. They might say yes even if they don't intend to do. At least my suppliers are like that.

[@willpina]

Yup, "a lo mejor" is basically a polite way to say no.

[@goldvideo]

Here's a great Spanish tip, at least in Spain... Use "a lo mejor" (meaning "maybe") to avoid using the subjunctive. Most other forms like "tal vez" or "quizás" typically use the subjunctive but "a lo mejor" never does, at least not in Spain.

[@marions.120]

My Mother passed away one year ago today, 😢 and I was just thinking about her when I came across this video, but she used to tell me that she spoke certain words in Spanish to someone from Spain (my Father’s family is from Spain) and basically insulting them, so she had to eventually learn the difference!

[@synnacastroman3813]

I’m in Argentina and factura is a pastry! Also, receipt is a ticket here. We want to live in Mexico!

[@juliocesarsalazargarcia6872]

Factura is a pastry in Argentina? Waw! That is very surprising for me as a mexican. Is just as surprising as when I learned that calzone is not underware when you are talking about italian food. On the other side, at least in mexico, in some more cultures circles, "factura" is used as a word to mean the way something was done or made. For example, "Esta es una película de muy buena factura".

[@tonyromero8011]

Love that you guys are putting and effort to not fight the local culture and try to impose your culture:; but learm, adapt and embrace it. Some turist dont understand that they are in a different culture and have to put and effort to embrace their new surroundings rather than fight them.

[@82MONAMU]

Haha love this video and your funny stories. Reminds me of when I first moved to Mexico. Some people here use "almuerzo" to mean breakfast or brunch. Also, it's good to know that typically the "comida" (lunch) isn't eaten around 12 like in the US, but rather 2 or 3 pm. And "cena" (dinner) isn't usually 6 pm, more like 8-9 pm. It's good to know when you want to avoid "rush hours" at restaurants. Also, I still find it interesting that lots of people like to have coffee at night (often with fresh bread from the panadero that drives around the neighborhood) instead of in the morning.

[@trudyzire]

One of your best. Thank you!

[@austincook7272]

Agreed.

[@teebee5317]

My wife and I have had a place in Playa Del Carmen for 4.5 years your tips are definitely spot on. We've been coming to Mexico for the past 15 or so. I only recently started driving and yes. I LOVE the use of 4 way flashers in Mexico. In Canada it would be crazy that they ever get used. But in Mexico its practically a must do. The horn thing as well there is many different types of horn use in Mexico. As for the hand signals I really haven't seen that yet but I haven't drove all that much yet... One other thing I quite like I'm not sure if it's like this everywhere but south from Tulum to Chetumal it's a traditional 2 lane highway with wide'ish paved shoulders. If someone comes up from behind you sort of signal and drive into the paved shoulder keeping road speed and they then have the visibility to pass you when they feel is safe. Once they pass you remerge into traffic. I love this I wish roads in Canada were like this it makes so much sense. As for DAC yes that's a very unwelcome surprise. In Quintana Roo (I know you logged significant time in PM) but for others in the area Factura is the formal tax document but ticket is the informal register tape. As for seat yourself vs be seated. Even if the restaurant is super casual. If it's busy they still probably want to seat you in a section or something or they may have reserved a seat for regulars etc. But definitely COVID has changed everything so everything is wait to be seated right now. We're awaiting things to open back up a bit more so we can resume our Mexico tour. First stop Guadalajara home of Birria. I'm absolutely addicted to it.

[@mannex5451]

9:28 Yes, a like that too, i feel more safe when use emergency lights on those situations. Feels like... "hey, BE CAREFUL, things are not going like they used to" or "abnormal situation, pay attention" not just the single meaning of "i'm in trouble" for those lights.

[@RobertoLopez-nn8ty]

You guys are doing a very good Public Service in sharing your experiences in Mexico. Thank you so much. I love you guys.

[@hamilton0526]

You’ve been such a help! My family is planning to visit & possibly move. Love all the videos

[@claudiamarquez3595]

Thank you for the videos, my husband is from Veracruz, and he had never visit Orizaba, we went there 3 weeks ago and we loved it, we visit (el cerro del borrego)

[@davidellis5141]

I am planning on visiting a friend in Guadalajara this August & really appreciate the tips 😀 ! You guys are awesome 👌

[@davidellis5141]

@@davidmag808 Fully vaccinated

[@alexbriseno566]

Wow, Double Davids

[@erika1935]

Great tips and over so many different facets of life in Mexico! I love the use of flashers, too -- also if a taxi driver flashes their headlights at you when driving by at night, that is also not to be creepy, it is to ask if you are interested in a ride (or if neither hork/headlights use, if they point a finger when driving by, that is also to ask if you want a ride). I agree that you both seem well-rested and happy in QTO! I loved all the residential backgrounds, I used to visit friends who lived there and it was such a peaceful escape! The word I always used for a regular receipt was "ticket". Typically the only reason you will need a factura is if you need one for Mexican tax purposes, and the person who prepares the factura for you would need your Mexican RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) to list on it when they write/draw it up. Best wishes!

[@PassengerMX]

Almuerzo means "late breakfast" where I am. The upward hand gesture to say thanks was popularized by politicians on speaches, the "wakanda" style is common with artists and is more warm and personal. Getting a flashing light or full-on beams from a car behind means you're slow and they want to pass. On highways, not everyone obeys the speed limit so if you intend to do so, keep in the middle or right lanes and leave the left one for people who want to go faster. Always turn your blinkers on if something makes you slow down quickly, like finding traffic or a pothole. Blinkers are the main way to alert other drivers of dangers ahead in the road. On bi-directional roads, they will flash their beams from the other side to warn you about accidents, etc. Also, local traffic customs may vary from city to city, but keep in mind there's an additional set of rules shared everywhere for when traveling inter-state roads.

[@fabieCzMz]

Factura = Invoice and it will include your Mexico Tax Id. Boleto = ticket. Mainly for the bus or parking lot. Nota= Receipt it only has the quantity with out a break down. Recibo= receipt but it has a breakdown, and signed by both parties.

[@TangerineTravels]

Thank you, Fabie. Thanks very helpful!

[@fabieCzMz]

I forgot ticket, that is used also for boleto, or the tickets at supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Have a nice weekend 💚

[@donaustin2072]

Hi Maddie and Jordan, This 15 tips videos, I feel, is one of your best. it's taken me nearly six months to watch all of your videos from the very beginning. Each one has been great, but I especially enjoy all the dining videos. The choices of foods makes me hungry every time. It will be even better to watch the newest ones as they come out. Great job keeping us informed about your travels and all the beauty and deliciousness that you share from Mexico. Happy travels!

[@suzettelisuk8850]

Loved this! These little things make such a difference when trying to assimilate. TY!

[@gilbertotoledo1421]

The reason "Almuerzo" is believed in the United States to be lunch is due to a mistranslation. In the English speaking world there are 3 meals traditionally: breakfast, lunch and dinner in that order (let's just ignore brunch and linner). In Spain however there used to be 5 meals instead of 3. Understand that the word comida doesn't just mean food, it also means meal. Listed in order these used to be: 1. Desayuno (Breakfast, right when you wake up, usually very light. Think Coffee or Chocolate and Pan Dulce) 2. Almuerzo (Not lunch. Easily confused for lunch from an English perspective because it comes right after breakfast. But more of a mid morning snack to get you to lunch) 3. Comida ( also called Comida del Medio Día. THIS was lunch at mid day. It was the heaviest meal of the day and is the reason the Spanish and their cultural descendants used to take a nap in the afternoon: the siesta) 4. Merienda (snack to get you to through the rest of the day) 5. Cena (Dinner, not as heavy as dinner in the English speaking world). The thing is that not everyone could afford the luxury of eating all 5 meals. So people would just skip some of them. My father would just list off 1. Almuerzo 2. Comida 3. Cena and as a kid growing up in the USA this puzzled me as I too thought almuerzo was lunch. I later realized that it was probably because my ancestors would skip 1. breakfast in the early morning to get their things ready for work (saddle horses, load carts, sharpen tools, etc.) and instead eat their Almuerzo right before leaving for the fields. Their wives would pack them their Comida del Mediodía (mid day lunch) and they would eat it outdoors, then work the rest of the day, skip Merienda and come back home in the evening just in time for La Cena (dinner). Before my father decided to move to the city this used to be his daily routine, it was my grandfather's daily routine as a farmer, and it was his father's routine as well. Skip Breakfast, have Almuerzo, have la Comida, skip Merienda, have Cena, therfore 1. Almuerzo, 2. Comida, 3. Cena. For similar reasons people use desayuno and almuerzo interchangeably in different parts of the country.

[@KanBig]

In Peru and Bolivia, it is desayuno (breakfast), almuerzo (lunch), and cena (dinner, which could be referred to as comida sometimes.)

[@izzapz]

Que bien lo has explicado... 5 comidas al día, aunque algunas sean solo snacks, al menos así en el sureste

[@aleascott5124]

Thank you for this information. I love to read the comments on this channel. We learn so much!

[@jcbulldog533]

@@aleascott5124 I agree,it's very informative

[@tangulo8869]

I most days make it one meal a day, the longer the fast the longer you will live without aches and pains.

[@vinchenzopaulinezi546]

Lo de la mano significa "me quito el sombrero" una manera de demostrar gratitud y reconocer la cortesía

[@eduo_one]

No realmente. Viene de inclinar el ala del sombrero, no de quitárselo. Por eso se usa para dar las gracias de forma casual y no efusiva.

[@k.s5889]

Mexico 🇲🇽 is beautiful, nice people and rich culture.

[@stanrusk2522]

Such a great compilation of insider knowledge, 🙏. BTW, it is so great to see both of you looking at ease and well. The camera picks it up and it comes across. Priceless. Warm wishes🦦

[@stevetinajero5368]

Wow this video was pretty spot on! Things you don’t really think about but you start to learn the longer you’re here. I’ve been here for 10yrs and it seems like I’m always learning new details. Sadly I just graduated college and couldn’t find work here in my field and I’m in the works to starting a job in Texas. 😔

[@robertburkey5789]

I had to return to Texas after 8 yrs in Mexico, so I feel your pain. Never lost my love for Mexico and in a couple more years I’ll be retiring to MX 😍

[@stevetinajero5368]

@@robertburkey5789 nice that’s awesome. That’s my plan too. When I retire I’m 100% retiring to Mexico.

[@jcbulldog533]

@@robertburkey5789 Good for you... Sounds fabulous enjoy your Future retirement in Mexico 🇲🇽🇲🇽🇲🇽

[@joyoverley5259]

I love that you are continuing to get out really quality videos. Haven't watched since Covid, so it has been like visiting with old friends. Once I waited for your next videos, before spending 8 months in Chapala & Ajijic returned to the US on 2/21/19. Ha, one year ago yesterday. You both are amazing and I am honored to see you create this million dollar lifestyle. Love Joy~

[@mpower6004]

Thank you guys for these useful info . It helps prepare people a lot who not as familiar with Mexico as you are .

[@ofeliamarquez5406]

Hola, generalmente en los restaurantes se dice, la cuenta por favor 😉 Bienvenidos a Querétaro!!

[@eduo_one]

Not useful in la tienda de abarrotes, though. Asking for a recibo is pretty much universal in the country.

[@Nile55555]

The DAC is the house rate, each kilowatt hour costs 6 cents. When you exceed 250 kW / hour per month, the rate rises to more than 5 pesos per kW. And while you have several months of consumption above, the charge will be the average of 6 months of consumption, until you lower it enough to 250 Kw

[@CraigEchelmeier]

This is just the info I have been looking for. Thank You!

[@elcafejapones]

OMG I loved the video! I spent several years in Mexico and I teach Spanish in Canada now, but I just remembered so many of my own experiences. Some funny moments for sure!

[@machelofrancheli9031]

I love how humble you guys are sorry about your breakup

[@AmoDartz]

I love your videos, and i think you are very respectful of Mexican culture. I am mexican and through your videos i rediscovered the love i have for my country, thank you.

[@NashvilleTravelConcierge]

Great video. I learned a few things (practicing my hand gestures today). That one with the upper swoop of the hand will probably get me in trouble.

[@MonykaTex]

In restaurants you say "la cuenta, por favor" to ask for the check. However, maybe in smaller food places (where there may be just a few tables) you may say "¿Cuánto va a ser?" or "me cobra, por favor" like "how much will it be?" A 'recibo' is just like a supermarket receipt, you almost never ask for it, vendors/cashiers usually just give it to you. A 'boleto' is a ticket, for example when you go to the movies, a concert, or a parking lot ticket. I love your videos! I'm from Queretaro so it's really fun to watch you in my city, I hope you are good

[@CarlosMartinez-kx3ny]

I started watching your videos because your native English is good for those like trying to improve our. English, then I found them very interesting and full of information for both foreigner and local people, keep visiting México and let us know your experiences!.

[@MollyDiBi]

Wow! These are so great! Thank you sharing! I can't believe you guys were ever shy, you're such adventurers!!

[@jennyhammond9261]

LOL!!! Maddie had me laughing at the wiggle/toilet paper part!!!!!!

[@TheMetaidea]

Great video guys. Confirmo todo lo dicho en este video.

[@Fat_Twist]

That finger thing comes from El Chavo De 8 and it's usually accompanied by an "eso, eso, eso" 😂

[@michaellivingston501]

Hi you guys! I’m a faithful fan for well over four years and I always leave a comment. Today I’d like to say that one of the best reasons for following you is your delivery of information. I have been living in Queretaro three years, speak Spanish well enough and experienced enough to appreciate how positively and honestly you present the most difficult of topics, situations, or cultural differences. From reading other comments two of many are very important to remember: one, regardless of your status here you are a guest if you are not Mexican and two, when in Rome…..too often expats want the same situations that they left in the U.S., equaling to me the ugly tourist! You spin everything positively and hardly anyone, if any takes offense at your descriptions. I enjoy Queretaro, it’s a part of a hughly diverse country as you both know better than I do, but it’s also very diverse and very different from other parts of the country. I’m glad that you have chosen Queretaro as your home as I have, as Queretaro is a wonderful part of Mexico and you describe Mexico excellently in my opinion.

[@DreamsSketcher]

So very helpful. What a useful video. Only experience can teach us this or…by sharing. So, thanks for sharing.

[@charliebroocks]

The usual way that we use flashers here in Mexico, is that you will change your velocity; that's why you said we use it for parking, exit the parking spot, looking for a turn. Another think important at the moment of driving, we use flashers for accidents ahead, but we keep it turn if we are in a two way highway, so the people who comes in the other direction get alert. Sometimes the people that comes in the other direction aren't really keeping atention to the cars in your direction, so is really usual (at least in Michoacan) to see someone flashing with their high beams to warn you about something. I had to use it the other day because a drunk horseman was bumbling in the two lanes of the road...

[@Marchello5000]

I've been watching you guys for almost a year, i find myself smiling throughout your videos, you are really great and thanks for all the info, you cover the real world useful things which, for sure, is part of the success of your channel. Cheers from Canada

[@neilcronk]

On haggling for price the best way is to simply be prepared to walk away. At the tianguis if tomatoes are 3 kilos for $20mx but you think you can get them a little cheaper over there if you act like you're going to walk away they may come down on the price.

[@kimberlyshalaby1134]

I enjoyed seeing your video & both of you as well. I love your shirt Jordan! I hope you both have a really good week. High paws to Laska!

[@Numismaniac_Canada]

My wife and I absolutely love your videos! We were always afraid of going to Mexico but you’ve certainly shown us some cool things

[@davebonar1]

Who would have thought that Mexico was so different than the US ? I'm glad you guys have learned so much so you can pass it on to others , LOL. I'm a bit older so I wouldn't have had a clue just like some other's I'm sure. Love your energy and fun on saturday's.

[@jcbulldog533]

Well of course Mexico is so different from the USA.. It's obviously a totally different Country... You should go visit whenever you're able, beautiful Country with the friendliest people ever I Love my Mom's Country 🇲🇽🇲🇽

[@AgathaLOutahere]

Correct about the flashers turned on in heavy, slow traffic. Saw it in the Yucatan and was impressed.

[@tylersmith5955]

Very helpful video. I just moved to Mexico 2 weeks ago and I still have a lot to learn about the culture.

[@hipolitoramirez6421]

si es cierto yo también agradezco o doy las gracias así 😊👍

[@julioalvarez9650]

Lol, the "bad" hand motion around 1:30 shouldn't be so sudden. It's more of a gentle extension of the hand, and in my experience, combined with a gentle nod of the head.

[@angelrobles7201]

Indeed. There are some subtle yet meaningful differences: -Smooth movement, open hand, gentle head nod: Thank you! -Rude movement, fist clenched, the other arm hitting the inside of the elbow (sometimes): Shove it in your arse! (The longer the fist travels, the further you should shove it, of course).

[@KanBig]

Indeed, and that thank-you hand gesture comes from when in the past, you would take your hat off and do a little bow to say thanks.

[@marylh914]

Many decades ago, I was taught by my Mexican mother that it is rude to motion a waiter over by pointing one finger in their direction signaling them to come to your table. One should motion toward them with your whole hand. The one finger method is considered disrespectful, as if ordering them to come. Mom was right since I found out the hard way they may see you, but then look away and ignore you throughout the rest of the meal. At that point you may have to tell a different passing waiter that you need "la cuenta, por favor." Then it would finally arrive. All of these tips are priceless whether a visitor or newly arrived expat.

[@CristianLopez-uj5zv]

I got an observation on what was said. It is true as a general idea. However, it also depends on what state are you at cause the gestures and costumes might be slightly different. But as the general idea you're in the right track. Love your channel guys ❤️

[@eduo_one]

Literally mentioned several times in the video.

[@CristianLopez-uj5zv]

@@eduo_one stfu

[@williamreynolds5209]

Thank you , I hope to travel to Mexico soon , and I really appreciate all this information.

[@meelimorenoo]

Hi guys! I just found your channel and I love it!!! Keep on going!!! Btw .. You made me lol when you explained the "thanks gesture" 😅

[@TheParadiseParadox]

In some parts of Mexico they have four meals a day, and I think that's why comida means lunch. Almuerzo means something like morning tea, elevensies The M/H thing is important... Also in the shower, C doesn't mean cold, it means caliente. By the way I've noticed in the past two weeks people seem to be a lot more relaxed about COVID stuff in Querétaro. A lot less people wearing masks. Last night in one of the plazas I saw a lot more people dancing salsa, maybe 50 or 60 people compared to about 12 people a few weeks back Take care

[@mannex5451]

I'll help with that: We have 2 meals in the morning, the first is "desayuno" wich is literally "breakfast" early in the morning, something really really light to start your day... a coffe, a cookie, a tea, yoghurt, bread, etc. Then an hour or couple more we have "Almuerzo" the first complete and formal meal. We can skip the breakfast depends on habits or aviability, if your work or activities let you have it. Then we have "Hora de comida", "Lunch time" around 2pm - 4 pm and Dinner at nights around 9-10 pm.

[@TheParadiseParadox]

@@mannex5451 thanks. Which part of Mexico are you from

[@mannex5451]

@@TheParadiseParadox Jalisco, in the city of Tequila where the famous drink was born. Greetings. 👋🏻

[@TheParadiseParadox]

@@mannex5451 I've been a few times... I normally live in Guadalajara. Saludos desde Querétaro

[@DucksAmongUs]

It's so cool to see how much your knowledge about mexican culture has deepened throughout the years. Like in your first videos about Mexico-US differences you would notice the most obvious things any clever tourist might notice on a 2 week trip, but you guys have a very particular and deep knowledge about almost unnoticeable differences in our cultures, even for me as a mexican! (I had noticed some of these, but hadn't ever thought about how we call 'comida' the meal you usually have around mid day, and, for example, a mexican will usually associate the word 'lunch' with a snack one usually would get around 10-11 am). Also I hadn't thought about our "thank you" gesture before, hahaaha. Keep it up guys, good to see you're well.

[@mariaweitz1275]

I also LOVE the way they use their hazard lights. So extremely helpful! Great video❤️

[@evelynfeltoe2589]

Brilliant. Have experienced some of these in Europe, like the honking. So good to know. Hoping to go to Mexico soon. Love your videos.

[@oscarys]

Loved this video, guys!! It is so interesting seeing at ourselves from your standpoint !! Truly appreciate your respectful and fun tone when speaking about our Mexican oddities. Hey! It also happens the other way around. Countless times I recall being weirdly watched at in Colorado when a grad student there, as I postponed "lunch" saying "it's too early for comida" and then finding no place to eat later, jejeje. All the best !!

[@annabelv.2400]

Okay, I am an European and I used to live in Mexico for 3 years some time ago and love that country to pieces. I have made life long friendships with people over there that last to this day, and I have watched some of your videos some 2 years ago. Recently I came upon one of your more recent videos, and I have to say: Woow what a change! I am proud of you for pinpointing language learning as a very important thing and doing all the efforts you have made to get so much better at it! Also, how you have improved your deepest understanding of mexican culture! I didn't subscribe back then, I just subscribed now! Also about negotating, I found out it is okay in touristy places or for stuff like artesanias/commodities, but NEVER ever for food stuff

[@Ouiyoginamaste]

Ahah loved it! Even here in canada we can put our flashers for pretty much anything. And sit by ourselves in casual restaurants... it was very interesting thank you

[@tomb1598]

Very interesting and good information. Another great video. Keep up the great work!!!! We enjoy your efforts.

[@chrisrobinson79]

I love your videos. You guys come up with some great topics. Very informative 🌴😎👍

[@dianadidiestrada6843]

¡Muy bien chicos! Yo vivi en Querétaro desde hace unos meses y es muy diferente de mi cuidad natal CDMX, que bueno que ayudan a otros a viajar con etiqueta. Me suscribí a su canal porque me parecieron educados y sus consejos son realmente utiles, hay que apoyar a todos quienes hacen bien su trabajo. Gracias y felicidades

[@MrLink-dk7yn]

HAHA that's so funny! (In mexico most people use jaja for haha) About #1, yeah... most people are easily offended if you do not give a starter before the main "dish", meaning, you have to greet by saying: "Hola!", "Como estas?", "Buenos días Ing.", etc... It took me many years myself to accept this formalism, even though I am a mexican. About #2, totally true, although the hand gesture does not give up the middle finger for those who are wondering. 13:32 Here's my take on receipts. The universal way to ask for for proof of payment here in Mexico is by a "recibo". I guess that in some regions the word "nota" is primarily used but these two words generally mean the same thing and as to what word is used the most depends mostly on geographical location. I could be wrong but I guess for the northern part of mexico is "recibo" and "nota" elsewhere. Because you have spent most of your time in the southern parts of Mexico, you could verify this? Anyways, you should be fine by using only "recibo" or "nota". "Boleto" and "ticket" are also proof of purchase but they are not "invoices" (recibos and notas are invoices). "Boletos" and "tickets" are generally 99% of the time receipts for transportation costs, as in an "airline ticket" but they have meaning only for the transaction between the vendor and you. e.g. you could purchase a bus ticket "boleto" from Queretaro to Guanajuato using a specific busline (Omnibus, ETN, Futura, etc.) and that boleto is used by the bus driver as a proof of purchase or more specifically as a way to prove you have rented a specific spot in the bus (like a seat number) but it doesn't mean anything outside that context. When purchasing the boleto (or ticket in english, which mexicans have adopted as an anglicism) in the counter, you should also get without you asking (specially if you paid by electronic means) a receipt, that is a "recibo". This recibo is a proof of purchase but the bus driver will require the boleto, not the recibo (its the same as in an airline ticket). Now, a "factura" can be looslely translated to a commercial invoice because, AFAIK Mexico is one of the, if not the only country that has this kind of proof of purchase. As you have said, the factura not only is a receipt but is a valid legal document that, in theory, all transactions should partake. But as tax evasion is very common, vendors do not usually give facturas and if you request one you'll probably get one of two answers: 1) "I don't give facturas", or 2) "I do give facturas but that will be 16% more" (16% is the IVA in Mexico. IVA stands for Impuesto al Valor Agregado, that is, VAT or Value Added Tax). Most of the time, this happens with informal vendors (like the local furniture makers you visited) but, on more established places, like big chain restaurants, supermarkets or brick&mortar stores, the IVA is already added to the price and if you request a factura there will be no added cost to your bill. One more thing to note though: A factura is only given if you can give the proper legal information (name, address and RFC: which is like the CURP but for tax pruposes)

[@georgianapage7198]

I liked this video, lots of helpful advice!