Mexico Essentials

Calculating the Value of Old Mexican Banknotes

Old Mexican bank notes can be exchanged for their present-day value at the Bank of Mexico, or sold to collectors who seek to acquire them

Abundant Options for Local Food Shopping in Mexico

Independent neighborhood vendors selling fresh locally-sourced produce remain a thriving part of the Mexican retail landscape

Preparing Your Mexican Home for Earthquakes

It's prudent to take time and review the composition of your habitat and living spaces to mitigate the risk of damage and injury during an earthquake

Lightning strikes power distribution station

Dealing with Electricity Power Cuts in Mexico

Local power cuts are a regular feature in Mexico, especially during thunderstorms and wind storms. Some forward planning can help to mitigate potential problems

Mexico $20-peso new coins old bank notes

Mexico’s Elegant $20-peso Coins Begin to Replace the Notes

Mexico's elegant and distinctive 12-sided $20-peso coins are starting to supersede the old $20-peso banknotes that were printed on polymer

No Hay Cambio — the Art of Making Change in Mexico

With more than 19 billion coins and bills in circulation across Mexico, why does it seem that no one ever has any change?

Torn Money: The Banknote Versus the Joker

In Mexico, merchants of all kinds tend to reject damaged banknotes, but you can exchange damaged notes at a bank if you have at least half of the note intact

Dealing with Counterfeit Mexican Banknotes

If you find yourself having to deal with a fake banknote in Mexico, options depend on the circumstances under which the fake note came into your possession

Volunteer helping to release a sea turtle back into the wild

The Visas You Need for Doing Volunteer Work in Mexico

You can use a visitor permit to volunteer in Mexico provided the work is non-lucrative. This article describes what visa types you need to volunteer in Mexico

Mexico’s (No) Clock-Time Changes in Spring & Fall 2025

Most of Mexico won’t change its clocks this spring & fall, but clock changes elsewhere will create time differences to note when you plan travels and meetings