¡Hola, amigos! This week, Mexico’s political stage gets a shake-up as AMLO clocks out of office – quite literally, with a surprise watch raffle! Meanwhile, new President Claudia Sheinbaum steps into office today at 11 am…but it seems Spain hit “decline” on the invite. Oof, moving on! 😬 Let’s dive into what’s happening this week in Mexico!

📣Que Paso

📅 Claudia Sheinbaum will officially take office as Mexico’s first female president today. The inauguration begins at 9 AM, with the presidential handover at 11 am, followed by Sheinbaum’s speech. The event will last about 1 hour and 40 minutes, with a public rally scheduled later at 4 pm in Mexico City’s Zócalo. Here’s a rundown of the day’s events.

📉 The peso dropped over 1.30%, reaching 19.74 against the USD, as Mexico’s central bank’s recent interest rate cut from 10.75% to 10.50% sparked concerns about inflation and a larger-than-expected trade deficit.

🚂 Mexico-US Agricultural Trade Stalled by Rail Delays: U.S. rail operators like Union Pacific and BNSF have suspended grain permits to Mexico, disrupting over 53% of cross-border agricultural trade. Nearly 200 agricultural groups sent a letter to the White House last Friday to denounce delays in rail transportation.

🎟️ Instead of his usual Q&A session with journalists, President López Obrador surprised everyone at his last morning press conference by raffling off his own watch (valued at around $100 USD). Watch it here.

🎶 Ex-El Chapo Lawyer Turns to Music: Mariel Colón, known for defending El Chapo, launches her music career, is raising eyebrows with her latest single, which pays tribute to Guzmán’s wife.

🇪🇸 President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum reignited tensions by not inviting King Felipe to her inauguration after Spain refused to apologize for colonial-era abuses. In response, Spain’s Prime Minister called the decision “unacceptable” and pulled out of the ceremony.

🍎 Your Health Pulse 

How to Appeal a Denied Health Insurance Claim

Having to appeal a denied international health insurance claim can be a real pain.

And, the appeals process can be stressful and confusing — especially if you don’t know the proper steps. Find out why claims get denied, the steps to filing a successful appeal, and tips to get your money back from your insurer.

📍 Immigration Essentials

What to Do If You Lose Your Residency Card Outside of Mexico

Losing your Mexican residency card while traveling outside of Mexico can be a stressful experience, but don't panic. There is a two-stage process to replace your lost or damaged card, starting at a Mexican consulate abroad and concluding when you return to Mexico.

First, report the loss to the local police and obtain a report number. Then, make an appointment at the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate that issues replacement visa stickers. Not all consulates issue a visa for residency card replacement, so you might have to travel to one that does. Be prepared to provide details about the loss, complete paperwork, and pay a consular fee. You'll need to leave your passport with the consulate and this can take for to two weeks to receive the visa.

When you get your visa, you must use it to re-enter Mexico, presenting it to the border official. Whatever you do, do NOT enter as a visitor or tourist. If you do, this mistake will cause you to lose your residency visa, and you will be required to start the process again.

The final step is you will need to go to your local INM office (the one where you are registered) within 30 days of the visa's issue date to begin the card replacement process.

Find More Info Here.

🪷 Viva Wellness

Mexican Herbs and Remedies for Cold and Flu Season

As the cold and flu season draws near, it's the perfect opportunity to explore traditional Mexican remedies for relief. While over-the-counter medications are readily available in Mexico, natural alternatives often provide a gentler approach to managing symptoms.

Mexico's time-honored remedies, ranging from herbs found in your own backyard to staples at local markets, offer simple yet effective ways to alleviate cold and flu discomfort.

Keep reading for 9 Mexican herbs and remedies you’ll want to have on hand for the season.

🎉 Vamos! Can’t Miss Events

🙏 Fiesta de San Francisco de Asís: Oct 1-5, Real de Catorce, San Luis Potosí
Join the thousands of devoted pilgrims in Real de Catorce to celebrate San Francisco de Asís, affectionately known as "El Charrito Milagroso." Known for his miraculous deeds and nightly walks through the town to aid the needy and calm disputes, his legend has deeply touched the community. The festivities are filled with tradition, devotion, and a strong sense of faith. Click here for more info.

🍛 National Mole Fair: Oct 4-27, CDMX
The National Mole Fair is back with 24 restaurants serving up the best moles, from classic red and green to unique flavors like almendrado and pipián. Enjoy lively music, traditional dances, local crafts, and live concerts — an event that blends flavor, culture, and fun! Find out more here.

🎡 Fiestas de Octubre: Oct 4 - Nov 4, Guadalajara
This year’s Fiestas de Octubre in Guadalajara will feature big names like Christian Nodal, Alejandro Fernández, and Pepe Aguilar. Held at the Benito Juárez Auditorium, the event kicks off with Natanael Cano on October 4 and wraps up with Julión Álvarez on November 4. Expect a mix of traditional and modern Mexican music from 18 top artists. Click here for more info.

🎭 International Cervantino Festival: Oct 11-27, Guanajuato
The largest cultural fiesta in Latin America is back! With over 3,200 artists from 24 countries, this year’s edition features Brazil and Oaxaca as guests of honor. Explore 133 performing arts events, 35 visual art exhibitions, and 50 film screenings across this vibrant city. Set against the backdrop of Guanajuato’s stunning colonial architecture, the festival’s diverse lineup includes free street performances, concerts, and family-friendly activities. Click here for details.

🍷 Morelia en Boca: Oct 11-13, Morelia
Savor the best of Mexican cuisine and wine as top chefs and emerging culinary talents gather to celebrate Mexico’s rich gastronomic heritage. Experience tastings, discussions, and presentations from sommeliers, enologists, and food experts in a festival that highlights Mexican cuisine as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This year’s theme is "Family and Food," honoring the unbreakable bonds formed around the table. Get more details here.

🎡 Feria de San Francisco: Sept 26-Oct 20, Pachuca, Hidalgo
Experience one of Mexico’s most iconic fairs in Pachuca, Hidalgo. The Feria de San Francisco offers a vibrant mix of attractions, including commercial, artisan, and food pavilions, thrilling mechanical rides, and traditional events like palenques and bullfights. Whether you're shopping for crafts or indulging in local cuisine, this fair is packed with entertainment for all ages. Enjoy live shows, cultural exhibitions, and so much more at this can't-miss celebration of Mexican culture. Click here for more info.

🎡 Fiestas del Sol: Sept 27-Oct 13, Mexicali
Baja California’s biggest celebration is back! Enjoy exciting performances from top Mexican and Latin American artists, thrilling rides, and a mouthwatering variety of food. Check out the full artist lineup and grab your tickets for the Isla de las Estrellas and Palenque shows. Click here for details.

💡 Say It in Spanish

"¿Qué día pasa la basura?"

Translation: What day does the trash get picked up?

This is super useful for staying on top of local schedules and making sure you’re in sync with the neighborhood’s waste collection routine. It’s also a great way to start a casual chat with your neighbors.

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