7 Tips for Living in Guanajuato
Summary: Advice for people moving to Guanajuato or thinking about moving there.
This is a must read if you're moving to Guanajuato or thinking about moving there.
Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. It's a popular destination for expats and digital nomads, offering a unique blend of traditional Mexican charm and modern amenities. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
1. Learn the Language
While many locals speak English, learning Spanish will greatly enhance your experience in Guanajuato. Not only will it make daily tasks easier, but it will also open doors to deeper cultural understanding and friendships. There are numerous language schools in the city, such as the Escuela Falcon, where you can take intensive Spanish courses.
2. Explore the Neighborhoods
Guanajuato is made up of several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. The Centro Historico, the city's historic center, is a must-visit with its narrow, winding streets and colorful buildings. The student-friendly neighborhood of Embajadoras is known for its lively market and beautiful park. Meanwhile, the upscale neighborhood of Marfil offers a quieter, more residential feel. Spend time exploring each one to find your favorite.
3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is through food. Guanajuato offers a variety of delicious local dishes, from enchiladas mineras to guacamayas. Be sure to visit local restaurants like Truco 7, known for its traditional Mexican cuisine, and Las Mercedes, a popular spot for seafood. For a sweet treat, stop by La Vie en Rose for some of the best pastries in town.
4. Embrace the Local Culture
Guanajuato is a city rich in culture and tradition. Attend local festivals, such as the Cervantino Festival, one of the largest arts and culture festivals in Latin America. Visit the city's many museums, like the Museo Casa Diego Rivera, the birthplace of the famous artist, or the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a historic granary turned museum. And don't miss a performance at the Teatro Juarez, one of the most beautiful theaters in Mexico.
5. Get Involved in the Community
Getting involved in the local community is a great way to feel more at home in Guanajuato. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer, depending on your interests. Whether it's helping out at a local school, participating in a neighborhood clean-up, or lending a hand at a community event, your efforts will be appreciated and will help you form meaningful connections with locals.
6. Navigate the City's Transportation
Getting around Guanajuato can be a bit of a challenge due to its hilly terrain and narrow streets. The city's public transportation system is reliable and inexpensive, with buses running regularly throughout the city. Taxis are also readily available. However, one of the best ways to explore Guanajuato is on foot. Just be prepared for some steep climbs and bring comfortable shoes!
7. Stay Connected
As a digital nomad, staying connected is crucial. Guanajuato offers plenty of cafes with reliable Wi-Fi where you can work, such as La Vie en Rose and Santo Café. The city also has several coworking spaces, like Convivio Coworking, that offer a quiet place to work and the opportunity to network with other digital nomads.
Living in Guanajuato, Mexico, as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding and enriching experience. By embracing the local culture, exploring the city's neighborhoods, and getting involved in the community, you'll not only make the most of your time in Guanajuato, but also create memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.