¡Hola amigos! This week, we’re covering President Sheinbaum’s massive Sunday celebration in the Zócalo, a hopeful rebound for the eastern monarch butterfly population, how to handle medical accidents in Mexico, and the best way to see this beautiful country from a whole new perspective.

Plus, if someone’s “throwing dogs” at you, don’t run – take it as a compliment. We’ll explain what it really means.

📣Que Paso

🇲🇽 President Claudia Sheinbaum turned a planned tariff response into a massive celebration on Sunday in Mexico City's Zócalo, marking the suspension of U.S. trade measures. She reaffirmed that Mexico is a free, independent, sovereign, and democratic country and stressed the importance of dialogue and mutual respect in its relationship with the U.S. Sheinbaum vowed to strengthen Mexico’s economy by boosting self-sufficiency in food and energy, increasing public investment, and continuing cooperation to combat fentanyl. Watch highlights of her speech here.

🔩 Despite the U.S. delaying new tariffs until April 2 for goods exported under the USMCA, Mexico’s steel and aluminum exports remain in limbo, with a 25% tariff still set to take effect March 12. Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard confirmed negotiations with U.S. officials to prevent the measure.

📉 JPMorgan downgrades Mexico’s market outlook to neutral, citing economic headwinds and reduced growth expectations.

💰 Mercado Libre to invest US$3.4 billion in Mexico this year – a 38% increase from 2024.

🌊 UNAM researchers develop drywall using sargassum, offering a sustainable solution to the millions of tonnes of seaweed washing up on Mexico’s shores.

📈 Mexican exports to the US hit a record high of US$41.6 billion in January, marking a 6.2% increase – the largest January growth since 1985.

🚧 Highway repairs from Maya Train construction damage now 60% complete, according to the Secretaría de Infraestructura, Comunicaciones y Transportes (SICT).

🦋 A new report from Mexico shows the eastern monarch butterfly population nearly doubled in 2025, occupying 4.42 acres of forest, up from 2.22 last winter — but still below historical averages.

🍎 Your Health Pulse

How to Handle Medical Accidents in Mexico

A tumble on uneven cobblestones, a car accident, or a fall in your own home – everyday accidents can turn complicated fast in Mexico.

Handling a medical emergency isn’t always as straightforward as calling an ambulance and heading to the hospital.

For foreigners living in or visiting Mexico, the process can feel like a puzzle. Emergency services work differently here, insurance rules can trip you up, EMS cannot enter your home without consent, and language barriers add another layer of challenge.

Keep reading for how to handle medical accidents in Mexico before they happen.

📍 Immigration Essentials

Permanent Residency vs. Citizenship

If you plan to live in Mexico long-term, you may be considering permanent residency or citizenship. While both allow you to stay indefinitely, they come with key differences in rights and responsibilities.

Permanent Residency

Permanent residency allows foreigners to live and work in Mexico without time restrictions. It can be obtained after four years of temporary residency or under certain conditions, such as having Mexican family ties or qualifying under Mexico’s points system.

• Live in Mexico indefinitely

• Work and open a business

• Keep your original nationality

• No need for visa renewals

However, permanent residents do not have the same rights as Mexican citizens. While residents are subject to most of the same laws and benefits, there are key restrictions:

• Cannot vote in government elections

• Cannot buy land in restricted areas (within 50 km of the coast or 100 km from international borders) without a fideicomiso (trust)

• Cannot participate in public protests

Residents may continue to receive consular support from their home country, but their status can be revoked by immigration authorities if they fail to comply with national laws.

Citizenship

Citizenship, or naturalization, grants full legal rights as a Mexican national. Most foreigners qualify after five years of residency (or two if married to a Mexican citizen). Unlike permanent residents, citizens can vote, own land freely, and apply for a Mexican passport.

• Full political and legal rights

• No need for an immigration card

• Own property without restrictions

• Mexican passport access

Some applicants must renounce their original nationality, depending on their home country’s laws.

Bottom line: Permanent residency lets you stay, but citizenship fully integrates you into Mexico.

Thinking about becoming a Mexican citizen? Find out more about the process.

🇲🇽 Viva Mexico

The Molcajete: A Love Story Written in Stone

The molcajete, a pre-Columbian mortar and pestle made of volcanic rock, has been a staple of Mexican kitchens for centuries​. But beyond its practical use, some say its very origins are tied to one of Mexico’s most tragic and enduring love stories…

The legend of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl​.

Long before the Spanish arrived, the mighty Aztec Empire ruled over the Valley of Mexico, demanding heavy tribute from neighboring towns. One of their fiercest enemies was the Tlaxcaltecas, whose chief had a daughter of unparalleled beauty, Princess Iztaccíhuatl. She was deeply in love with Popocatépetl, the tribe’s bravest warrior, and before leaving for battle, asked for her hand in marriage.

Her father agreed, promising they would be wed when Popocatépetl returned victorious. But a jealous rival, envious of their love, deceived the princess, telling her that Popocatépetl had died in battle. Overcome with grief, Iztaccíhuatl passed away.

When Popocatépetl returned and learned of her death, he was devastated. To honor their love, he carried her body to the highest mountain, built a grand tomb of ten hills, and knelt beside her with a burning torch, vowing to watch over her forever. The gods took pity on them, transforming them into two great volcanoes – Iztaccíhuatl, the sleeping woman, and Popocatépetl, the warrior who still smolders with grief​.

According to legend, the volcanic rock used to carve molcajetes comes from Popocatépetl itself. When the warrior mourns his lost love, his grief shakes the earth, sending smoke from his torch into the sky​.

This tragic love story has several versions. Some say the town chief was against the relationship and sent Popocatépetl to war to ensure he never returned. Others tell of the warrior himself building two great pyramids – one to guard his beloved and one to mourn her.

So the next time you hold a molcajete in your hands, remember you’re holding more than just a cooking tool. You’re holding a piece of Mexico’s soul, shaped by fire, stone, and a love that never died.

🪷 Viva Wellness

Find Your Trail, Find Your Balance

It’s easy to get caught up in city life or beachside routines, but some of Mexico’s best experiences start off the beaten path.

Stepping into nature isn’t just a way to explore — it’s a way to see the country from a whole new perspective. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing scenic walk, a heart-pounding trek, or an easy-access adventure, there’s a trail waiting for you.

Need a laid-back escape? Wander through the lush, jungle-filled trails of Parque La Estanzuela in Monterrey or the butterfly-filled forests of Valle de Bravo.

Craving a challenge? Tackle the rugged heights of Nevado de Toluca or hike to the crater of Volcán Paricutín — one of the youngest volcanoes on Earth.

Looking for wheelchair-friendly trails? Believe it or not, Mexico has 173 accessible routes with smooth paths and scenic views, from Bosque de Chapultepec in CDMX to Malecón in La Paz.

No matter your pace, there’s a trail to match. Ready to explore? Check out AllTrails, a site with over 9,812 trails across Mexico, featuring hand-curated maps, reviews, and photos to help you find the perfect adventure.

🎉 Vamos! Can’t Miss Events

🎉 La K'uínchekua 2025: March 13 - 16, Tzintzuntzan, Michoacán Immerse yourself in Michoacán's rich cultural heritage at La K'uínchekua, the state's premier festival. Over 4 days, more than 360 artists from indigenous communities will showcase traditional dances, music, and rituals against the historic backdrop of the Las Yácatas archaeological site. This year's festival honors the invaluable contributions of women to Michoacán's traditions. Admission is free, but tickets are required. Get more info here.

🎉 Festival of San José del Cabo 2025: March 15 - 22, San José del Cabo, Baja
Join the vibrant celebration honoring the city's patron saint, Saint Joseph, during this lively festival. Over nine days, experience parades, traditional dances, live music, and cultural performances that fill the streets with joy. Indulge in traditional Mexican cuisine, explore locally-made crafts, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region. Get more info here.

🌮 Taco Chilango 2025: March 15, Monumento a la Revolución, Mexico City 
Prepare your taste buds for the ultimate taco experience! Taco Chilango brings together 70 of Mexico City's top taquerías in one place, offering a mouth-watering array of tacos— from al pastor to suadero, carnitas, barbacoa, cochinita, and more. Get more info here.

🍽️ Festival de la Gordita y la Dobladita 2025: March 16, El Carrizo, San Juan del Río Get ready for a day filled with flavor, tradition, and fun! This free-entry festival brings together cultural performances, a kids’ zone with inflatables, artisan stands, live music, and, of course, plenty of delicious gorditas and dobladitas. Get more info here.

🏊‍♂️🚴‍♂️🏃‍♂️ IRONMAN 70.3 Campeche 2025: March 16, Campeche, Mexico 
Get ready for a unique race experience in the historic "Walled City" of Campeche. The event features a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) swim in the Gulf of Mexico, a 56-mile (90 km) flat bike course along the Mérida Highway and Malecón Avenue, and a 13.1-mile (21 km) run through Campeche's Marine Fountains, Malecón Avenue, and downtown areas. The race kicks off at 6:10 AM with a rolling start at Campeche Country Club. Get more info here.

⛵ Banderas Bay Regatta 2025: March 18 - 22, Vallarta Yacht Club, Nuevo Vallarta Sailors and spectators, get ready! The 32nd annual Banderas Bay Regatta brings five days of exciting races, themed boat parades, and lively celebrations on and off the water. Whether you're competing or just enjoying the view, this is Mexico’s premier sailing event. Get more info here.

🎇 Tultepec International Fireworks Fair 2025: February 28 – March 23, State of Mexico
This annual festival features jaw-dropping pyrotechnic shows, a dramatic castillos (firework castles) competition, and the famous torito burning – where people run through the streets carrying firework-adorned bull structures. Get more info here.

💡 Say It in Spanish

"¡Te están tirando los perros!"

Translation: Literally, “Someone’s throwing the dogs at you.” But don’t worry — no actual dogs involved! This is Mexico’s way of saying “Someone has a crush on you.”

If a charming stranger is laying on the compliments, buying you drinks, or going full-on Casanova, your friends might nudge you and say, “¡Te están tirando los perros!”

Now you’re in on the secret — just don’t be surprised when you hear it in the wild. 😉 

Want to level up your Spanish and actually catch these phrases in real life? Check out our Insider Pulse Toolkit.

Why El Expat Insider Mexico? Life abroad isn’t just about relocating — it’s about reinventing. Every sunrise in Mexico brings new opportunities to explore, learn, and connect. Whether you’re here for a season or a lifetime, we’re your compass for making the most of every moment. Because life’s too short to live on autopilot.

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