Is That Salsa Too Spicy?

Plus RFC hacks, chilcuague, and lime exports

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Exhausted from Independence Day celebrations? Don't put away your party sombreros just yet—we're just getting started. This week, we’ve got the scoop on must-attend events, the secret to staying healthy with a powerful Mexican root, and why getting your RFC sorted is a must.

Plus, we’ve got the insider tip for finding out if that salsa just has a kick or a five-alarm blaze.

Hot Sauce Burn GIF by Pudgy Penguins

Gif by pudgypenguins on Giphy

📣Que Paso

🏨 Mexico shines in hospitality with 87 hotels awarded Michelin Keys, including 3 with the top Three Key rating, 21 Two Key hotels, and 63 One Key hotels.

✈️ Aeroméxico celebrates its 90th year by expanding its fleet by 61%, becoming one of the top 10 airlines worldwide.

🍋 Mexico remains the world's second-largest lime and lemon exporter, supplying 20.5% of global production with most exports heading to the U.S., Netherlands, and the U.K.

🌎 Coca-Cola temporarily suspends its distribution in southern Morelos due to growing insecurity in the region.

🌤️ Unexpected dry air might keep the Mexican Caribbean out of the hurricane path for the rest of the season — fingers crossed.

🍎Your Health Pulse

Can I Get Health Insurance in Mexico If I Have a Pre-Existing Condition?

By far, this is one of the top questions expats living in Mexico (or those looking to move here) have. For some, it’s critical and can be a deal breaker before moving to Mexico full-time – or the reason you may need to move back to your passport country.

Check out this article for everything you need to know about pre-existing conditions and obtaining health insurance while living in Mexico.

📍Immigration Essentials

Do You Need Mexico's RFC? Here's Why You Might.

If you’re a legal resident in Mexico, the RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) is a must-have! This tax ID issued by SAT (Mexico's IRS) is key for managing taxes, opening bank accounts, buying property, and even purchasing a car.

Without it, you could miss out on important tax benefits, find it tricky to make big purchases, or face extra red tape. Curious about how the RFC affects your expat life?

Learn a Language in Just 10 Minutes a Day

It’s Learning Season! Whether you’re headed back to school or just looking to explore something new, Babbel is your private tutor in your pocket. Their bite-sized lessons (just 10 minutes a day!) fit seamlessly into your routine, helping you confidently start real-world conversations in as little as three weeks. With Babbel, learning a new language is flexible, fun, and easy. For a limited time, get up to 55% off your subscription.

🪷 Viva Wellness

Chilcuague: The Mexican Plant with Powerful Medicinal Uses

Think you know Chilcuague? Think again! This versatile Mexican medicinal plant does way more than just spice up your favorite dishes.

For centuries, Chilcuague has been a go-to natural remedy for a wide range of health issues: from easing toothaches and soothing sore throats to supporting digestion and boosting immunity. Discover the incredible benefits and see why it deserves a spot in your pantry.

🎉 Vamos! Can’t Miss Events

🎬 Monterrey International Film Festival – September 25 - October 2, Monterrey
Get ready for a week of cinematic magic! From indie gems to global hits, this festival is a must for film lovers. Dive into screenings, workshops, and all things film. Check it out.

🍇 El Festival del Vino Mexicano – September 28-29, Guadalajara
Sip, swirl, and savor at FEVINO, celebrating a decade of Mexican wine culture! Join over 70 wineries, tastings, food pairings, and conversations with industry leaders at Parque Ávila Camacho. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just love a good fiesta, this is the event to explore Mexico’s finest vinos. Get tickets here.

🏃‍♂️ Querétaro Maratón – October 6, Querétaro
Get your running shoes ready! The Querétaro Maratón returns, offering a scenic course through the city's historic streets and beautiful landscapes. Choose your challenge with 5K, 10K, half, and full marathon options, and join thousands of runners from around the world. Click here for details and registration.

🐾 Referral Contest: Refer a Friend, Save a Paw 🐾

For each new like-minded expat friend or family member you refer who subscribes to El Expat Insider, we will donate 50 pesos to Angelitos Sanctuario. The contest runs now through September 30th.

Use your unique referral link below to share with your community!

💡 Say It in Spanish

"¿Qué tan picante está?" o "¿Está muy picante?"

Translation: How spicy is it? or Is it very spicy? Critical questions to ask when you’re about to dive into a dish and want to gauge the heat level.

But here’s the kicker: Sometimes what’s “not spicy” to a Mexican can feel like a mini explosion to foreigners. So, if you really want to know the truth, try this question:

"¿Picante a tu nivel o al mío?"

Translation: “Spicy to your level or mine?” 😅

This line is your secret weapon to finding out if that salsa is a delightful kick or a five-alarm blaze! Use it with a grin, and you might just get an honest answer before your taste buds go up in flames.🔥

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