Who Knew?

Welcome to “Don’t Come to Mexico If”—Where learning to live here starts with learning what not to do.

Bienvenido a Mexico

#1-You Can’t Flush Toilet Paper in Most of Mexico

If you’ve spent your whole life flushing without a second thought, Mexico’s plumbing is about to humble you. 💀

In most of the country, toilet paper goes in the trash can, not the toilet. It’s not because Mexicans love extra bathroom décor — it’s because most pipes are narrow and older systems can’t handle the extra paper. Flush it, and you risk a mess that’ll make you very unpopular with your Airbnb host.

You’ll usually see a little wastebasket next to the toilet (sometimes with a lid, sometimes not). That’s where your used TP goes. Yes, it feels weird at first. Yes, everyone else is doing it. And no, it doesn’t smell terrible if you empty it regularly.

🧻 Pro tip:
Keep a small roll of your own TP in your bag — public restrooms don’t always stock it. And when you see a sign that says “Por favor, no tire papel en el baño,” take it seriously.

Why it matters:
Doing this simple thing shows respect for how local systems work — and saves you from being that tourist who floods the baño.

The takeaway:
When in Mexico, trust the basket.

#2 — Tipping Isn’t Optional (and Locals Notice)

If you’re from the U.S., you might assume tipping customs are similar in Mexico — or even that prices already include it. Nope.

Here, tips are an essential part of people’s income, not a bonus. In restaurants, cafés, and bars, 15–20% is standard.

If service was great, go up to 20%. If it was just okay, never go below 10%.

And yes, that includes small things like:

  • The guy bagging your groceries (5–10 pesos)

  • The person who pumps your gas (10–20 pesos)

  • Hotel staff, delivery drivers, and street performers

Why it matters:
Mexicans take pride in hospitality, and tipping generously is a way to honor that. Leaving a single U.S. dollar on a 500-peso meal?

Not a good look.

Pro tip:
Always carry small bills and coins. You’ll use them more than you think.

The takeaway:
If you can afford to move to Mexico, you can afford to tip like you belong here.

#3 — “Mañana” Doesn’t Always Mean Tomorrow

If you take “mañana” literally, you’re going to be stressed a lot here.

In Mexico, “mañana” doesn’t just mean “tomorrow” — it’s a flexible concept that can also mean “later,” “eventually,” or even “I’ll get to it when I can.”

It’s not laziness. It’s a different relationship to time — one that prioritizes people and peace over rigid schedules. Mexicans tend to value being present and polite more than being exact.

So when your plumber says he’ll come “mañana,” it might mean tomorrow… or Thursday… or next week. The best strategy? Stay calm, stay kind, and follow up — politely. (“¿Cree que pueda venir hoy?” works wonders.)

Why it matters:
Getting frustrated won’t make anything happen faster. Adapting to the rhythm of life here is part of what makes living in Mexico so rewarding.

The takeaway:
In Mexico, “mañana” isn’t procrastination — it’s permission to slow down.

#4 — You Can’t Take an Uber from the Airport

Uber can drop you off at Mexican airports, but they can’t pick you up from federal zones like airports, train stations, or archaeological sites.
The “Uber vs. taxi” debate is real — and the taxis have the upper hand in those areas.
Tip: Book a taxi through the airport counter or use official apps like “Didi Taxi.” It’s not about preference — it’s about jurisdiction.

#5 — Some Small Airports Don’t Sell Plane Tickets

If you’re flying out of smaller airports (like Matamoros), surprise! You can’t buy a ticket at the airport itself.
You’ll have to visit a sucursal (sales office) in town beforehand — even if the flight leaves in an hour.
Tip: Always double-check where you can actually purchase your ticket before you head out.

#6 — Liverpool Won’t Honor Your Warranty Unless You Call Their Technician

Liverpool is one of Mexico’s best department stores — but their warranties come with fine print.
If you buy something like a treadmill, you can’t open the box or assemble it yourself. You must call their authorized technician to do it — otherwise, your warranty is void.
Tip: Before buying large items, ask how the warranty works. Every store has its own rules.

Raise your hand if you’ve learned this one the hard way 🙋‍♀️

#7 — You Might Have Three Different Addresses

In new housing developments, you might end up with three different addresses:
1. One for CFE (electricity),
2. One for your internet provider, and
3. Another that Amazon recognizes.
They all point to the same house — but not to each other.
Tip: Keep a list of every version handy. It’ll save you countless headaches.

#8-Parking Rules Aren’t Always Marked

In Mexico, no-parking zones aren’t always clearly labeled. A faded yellow curb or “E” with a slash means “No estacionar” — don’t park.
Sometimes, the only clue is a line of cars with parking tickets.
Tip: When in doubt, ask a local or look for curb paint — yellow or red is your warning.

#9-Technicians Might Text You on WhatsApp

Plumbers, electricians, and delivery drivers often confirm appointments via WhatsApp — not phone calls or emails.
Tip: Get comfortable using WhatsApp professionally. It’s how everyone communicates here — from landlords to doctors.