Cultural adjustments in Mérida. The cultural differences in Mérida aren’t always huge and abrupt—many are subtle but require real adjustments in daily life. Here are the biggest ones Black expats experience:
The Language Barrier – If you don’t speak Spanish, you’ll immediately notice how difficult basic interactions can be at first. Whether it’s ordering food, getting into a taxi, or asking for directions, everything slows down. Unlike in the U.S., you can’t just expect people to speak English, so patience and learning basic Spanish are key.
Sidewalks & Streets – Walking in Mérida is not the same as in the U.S. The sidewalks are uneven, cracked, or missing altogether. Some areas have tree roots pushing up the pavement, making it impossible to walk without paying attention. People in the U.S. are used to walking while scrolling on their phones—in Mexico, that’s a bad idea unless you want to trip and fall. Engage with your surroundings instead.
Bumpy Car Rides – The streets in Mexico aren’t as smooth as U.S. highways. If you’re in an Uber or taxi, don’t expect to comfortably read on your phone—the bumps will make that difficult. It’s an adjustment, but it’s also a chance to mentally reset, reflect, and enjoy the ride.
Food Handling & Street Vendors – Food safety and preparation are very different here. In Mexico, you’ll see street vendors and even some restaurants handling food in ways that would be unthinkable in the U.S. You might see someone using the same spatula for raw and cooked meat, or food being prepared near flies, birds, and open air. While locals grow up with strong immune systems, Black Americans often have a lower tolerance for the bacteria in this environment. Your stomach will need time to adjust.
Homes & Construction – Most homes in Mérida are made of concrete and cinder blocks, built to last 100+ years. This means homes stay cooler but also hold heat longer. Air circulation is different, and air conditioning isn’t always a given. It’s an adjustment, but one that adds to the longevity of homes.
The Heat & Nightlife Culture – In 2024, temperatures hit 110°F in Mérida. Because of the heat, life shifts to the evening. Families don’t go out during the day—they come out at night. At 8:30 or 9:00 PM, you’ll see entire families—kids, parents, and grandparents—eating ice cream, playing in the parks, and socializing together. The family unit is everything here, and that’s one of the most beautiful cultural shifts to witness.
Adjusting to life in Mérida isn’t about trying to recreate the U.S. experience in Mexico—it’s about adapting to a different way of life. Some changes are frustrating at first, but many Black expats learn to appreciate the differences and even prefer them over time.