History
María Encarnación Mares, a woman who defied societal norms, joined the Mexican Revolution as a Soldadera, a warrior woman. These women, often overlooked, played a crucial role in the fight for freedom, serving as soldiers, caregivers, and providers.
Business
Financial expert Maricruz Jaén Figueroa urges responsible financial education in a world of easy online banking and credit. She emphasizes budgeting, exploring diverse financial institutions beyond big banks, and understanding the role of banks in sustainable development.
Cancun
Indigenous
Mexico's constitution recognizes indigenous and Afro-Mexican rights, but implementation, especially regarding prior consultation, has lagged. A recent reform to Article 2 strengthens these rights, mandating free, prior, informed consultation on measures impacting their lives and environment.
Travel
This piece advises discerning travelers on souvenir hunting in Mexico. Ditch the tacky tourist traps (sombreros, maracas) for authentic finds: Oaxacan textiles, Puebla's Talavera pottery, Taxco silver. Seek handcrafted, culturally rich items that tell a story, not mass-produced junk.
Travel
Mexico is a beautiful country, but it's not without its annoyances. From the "no problem" attitude to the siesta syndrome, traffic nightmares, and even the occasional dog encounter, Mexico can test your patience.
Business
Mexico faces a looming fiscal crisis, predicted for 2025, despite prior warnings. Experts highlight the need for increased public income to meet development goals, yet current discussions downplay this necessity.
Travel
Mexico hotels: From all-inclusive purgatory (think lukewarm buffet hell) to boutique bankruptcy and hipster Tulum. Mexicanist's guide reveals the locations, potent tequila, and iguana-infested paradises. Ditch the resorts and find the REAL Mexico (Speedos optional, skepticism essential).
Travel
Forget your worries, grab your rod, and head to Mexico! From marlin-mad Cabo to Yucatán's cenote bass, this fishing paradise has something for everyone. Just remember, catch and release is the new "reel" deal, so you can keep coming back for more!
Acapulco
Hurricane John ravaged Acapulco, leaving widespread destruction and a housing crisis. Residents face the dilemma of leaving damaged homes representing their life's work. Government aid is being distributed, but the long-term recovery remains uncertain.
Baja California
Baja, a land of contrasts: rugged desert meets serene ocean, ancient culture clashes with modern luxury. From off-road adventures to world-class dining, it's a playground for the adventurous palate. Indulge in luxurious retreats, explore historic missions, or simply bask in the sun.
Travel
Dark tourism explores humanity's morbid fascination with death and disaster. From concentration camps to cemeteries, thrill-seeking travelers visit sites of tragedy and macabre attractions. Driven by a need for unique experiences, some seek "slum tourism" or "trips of no return".
Culture
Mañana—Mexico's most maddening yet magical word—means more than "tomorrow." It’s a philosophy of chaos and patience, teaching us to embrace the unpredictable. Forget deadlines; grab tequila. Life’s too short to sweat over air cons and goat-blocked roads. There’s always, well, mañana!
History
The Spanish conquistadors, a bunch of gold-hungry, God-fearing adventurers, stormed the Americas. They plundered, enslaved, and proselytized their way across the continent, leaving a trail of blood, treasure, and cathedrals.
Newsletter
This month's Mexicanist newsletter covers a wide range of topics, from Trump's impact on US-Mexico relations and trade (including USMCA review and nearshoring potential) to lighter fare like turtle-friendly shrimp, soursop's US debut, and festive Mexican Christmas celebrations.
Politics
Latin America faces a new era marked by economic slowdown, geopolitical tensions, and declining institutional capacity. The region needs to embrace long-term planning, invest in education, and strengthen institutions to navigate these challenges and secure a prosperous future.