What do expats find most challenging?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Merida. They wrote...

"I think language is the main challenge. Originally, we were going to move to Playa del Carmen where many of the Mexicans speak English as it is a tourist town. We changed plans and moved to Merida and have found that the majority of Mexicans do not speak English, so it is definitely a challenge daily!," said a member in Merida, Mexico.

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"I hate the slowness of the bureaucracy. I don't like the bank fees and exhorbitant fees associated with Mexican banks and US foreign banks in Mexico. I don't like the need to negotiate with others not used to fixed prices because it means I got to figure out what the reasonable price for an item is and then negotiate down. I never liked shopping much so it is not fun to do that for me. But I love buying artistic things that bring me joy to look at it at home. I don't like men ignoring me and asking my husband the question or giving my husband the answer. It is impolite," remarked another expat who made the move to Merida, Mexico.

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What do expats find most challenging?

If you live in Merida, newcomers to Merida would love to hear your answer to this question.