How to Pay Your Predial in Playa del Carmen (2026 Homeowner Guide)
If you own a home or condo in Playa del Carmen, you are required to pay an annual property tax, known in Mexico as Impuesto Predial. The good news? Predial in Playa del Carmen is very affordable by international standards, and the city offers generous early-payment discounts each year. This guide explains what Predial is, […]
How Non-Mexican Residents Get an RFC to Pay Rental Taxes in Playa del Carmen & the Riviera Maya
If you own rental property in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Akumal, or anywhere in the Riviera Maya, and you are not a Mexican resident, you are still legally required to register for taxes in Mexico and declare your rental income. The key requirement is obtaining an RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) from Mexico’s tax authority. […]
How to Use Colectivos in Playa del Carmen Like a Local (2025 Guide)
Routes, prices, stops, safety tips, and how to travel to Tulum, Akumal & Puerto Morelos. If you want to travel around the Riviera Maya cheaply, quickly, and like a local, colectivos are one of the best options. These shared vans run constantly up and down Highway 307, connecting Playa del Carmen to Tulum, Akumal, Puerto […]
How to Get Around Playa del Carmen Without a Car (Complete 2025 Guide)
One of the best things about living in—or visiting—Playa del Carmen is that you don’t need a car. The city is compact, walkable, and filled with cheap, reliable transportation options. Whether you’re here for a week or settling in long-term, getting around is easy, safe, and budget-friendly. Here’s your complete guide to navigating Playa del […]
How to Get Mexican Health Insurance: Public vs. Private (2025 Guide for Expats)
If you’re planning to live or retire in Mexico, having health insurance is essential. While the country has a robust healthcare system, navigating the options—public vs. private—can be confusing for newcomers. This guide explains your choices, costs, coverage, and tips to get the best plan for your needs. 1. Understanding the Mexican Healthcare System Mexico […]
How to Receive Social Security in Mexico: A Complete Guide for Expats
If you’re planning to retire or live long-term in Mexico, understanding how Social Security (U.S. or Canadian) works in Mexico is crucial. Millions of expats successfully receive their Social Security payments abroad, and with the right preparation, you can too—without interruptions or penalties. This guide explains how to receive your Social Security payments in Mexico, […]
Building Credit in Mexico: A Step-by-Step Guide for Expats
If you’re planning to live, work, or invest in Mexico, having a strong credit profile can make life much easier. From renting apartments and financing vehicles to getting favorable loan rates, a solid credit history is key. While credit works differently in Mexico compared to the U.S. or Canada, it’s possible for expats to build […]
Understanding Mexican Etiquette & Customs: What Every Visitor & Expat Should Know
Mexican culture is warm, welcoming, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you’re visiting Mexico for a week, staying for the winter, or moving here full-time, understanding local customs will help you blend in, avoid misunderstandings, and build more meaningful connections with the people around you. Here’s a clear, practical guide to Mexican etiquette, from greetings […]
Permanent Residency in Mexico: Requirements, Costs, and Timeline
For many expats, digital nomads, retirees, and long-term Mexico lovers, permanent residency is the ultimate goal. It gives you the right to live in Mexico indefinitely, removes the need for renewals, and makes life here much easier—especially for banking, property ownership, utilities, health insurance, and travel. This guide explains who qualifies, the requirements, estimated costs, […]
How to Get Temporary Residency in Mexico (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you’re thinking about staying in Mexico longer than the 180 days granted by a tourist permit, temporary residency is your best next move. It’s the legal pathway for anyone who wants to live in Mexico full-time or part-time, open a bank account, sign long-term rentals, buy a car, or work with the proper permissions. […]