Mexico offers a breathtaking juxtaposition of modern and traditional, cosmopolitan and provincial, rich and poor. Remnants of the ancient Olmec civilization are preserved and revered, pyramids where Aztec priests performed human sacrifices still stand, and palaces and monuments recall both the conquest of the Spaniards and the victory of the independence revolution. Colonial towns retain the flavor of the Spanish grandeur they once proclaimed; other towns fiercely protect their native indigenous heritage. Mexico City, a metropolis of delightful climate, modern buildings amid historic charm, and withering poverty, lies ringed by snow-capped volcanoes that slope down to pine forests, deserts, and balmy tropical beaches.

The first people to inhabit this land may have arrived 20,000 years before Columbus. Their descendants, including the Olmecs, Toltecs, Mayans and Aztecs, built a succession of highly developed civilizations that flourished from 1200 B.C.E. to C.E.1521. Hernán Cortés landed near modern-day Veracruz in 1519. King Montezuma II invited the Spaniards into his palace and they promptly took him hostage. After the Spanish conquistadors destroyed the Aztec Empire, the position of the conquered peoples deteriorated rapidly. The Indian population fell from an estimated 25 million at the time of conquest to one million by 1605. From the 16th to 19th centuries, a new colonial society emerged, stratified by race and wealth. The upper echelon was European, in the middle were people of mixed European-indigenous heritage, and at the bottom were the descendants of the native peoples, vestiges of this stratification endure today.

In the early 1800s, Mexico was convulsed with the yearning for freedom; the country gave birth to many heroes, Miguel Hildago, Jose Morelos and others. The struggle for independence, declared in 1810, was long and fitful; Spain was not expelled until 1821. Independence, however, was followed by almost one hundred years of unrest and agitation by various factions, punctuated by the US-Mexican War and several years of French subjugation when Maximillian was installed by Napoleon III as the Mexican emperor.

The Revolution of 1910 was the defining event of the 20th century; although Mexico had become relatively peaceful and prosperous, the oppressed peasant population finally erupted, bringing in a chaotic revolutionary period that lasted until 1917 when the current Constitution was drafted and adopted.

Culturally, politically, and economically, Mexico is experiencing profound change. The country is in the throes of broad and rapid urbanization with all the attendant benefits and problems. The economy has dramatically about-faced, embracing open-market policies and free-trade links with the U.S. and countries throughout the Americas. With the dawning of the 21st century, Mexico City has emerged as one of the world's largest cities. The political landscape is marked by transformation as each election brings exciting possibilities of change. Many seek to adapt to a new and promising future, while others defend parochial ways. Mexico is a country in transition and offers itself as a model to the developing world.

The Host Country

Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 7/17/2003 4:31 PM

Mexico is located in North America. It borders the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico between Belize and the U.S. and borders the North Pacific Ocean between Guatemala and the U.S. Its land mass covers approximately 1.9 million sq. kms, or slightly less than three times the size of Texas, and has approximately 9,330 sq. kms of beachfront property. The 2000 census determined the population to be approximately 97.5 million.

Within Mexico, there are 31 states and one Federal District-Distrito Federal, the country's capital. Independence Day for Mexico was September 16, 1810. It is celebrated widely throughout the country. The flag has three equal vertical bands of green, white, and red with a coat of arms-in the form of an eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak-centered on a white band.

With a climate that varies from tropical to desert, the terrain ranges from high rugged mountains to low coastal plains and high plateaus to desert. Its lowest elevation point is Laguna Salada at 10 meters. The highest point is the Volcano, Pico de Orizaba, at 5,700 meters.

Mexican natural hazards include tsunamis on the Pacific coast, volcanoes and destructive earthquakes at the center and south, and hurricanes on the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean coasts.

The main agricultural products are corn, wheat, soybeans, rice, beans, cotton, coffee, fruit, tomatoes, beef, poultry, diary and wood products.

The Mexican currency is the peso. The June 2003 exchange rate was 10.5 pesos=US$1; periodic fluctuations occur with the general rule of thumb being a ratio of 10 pesos to one dollar.

Population Last Updated: 7/28/2003 12:48 AM

Mexico has an estimated population of 98 million. It is the world's most populous Spanish-speaking country and the second most populous Latin American country. Contemporary Mexico is an urban society, with close to 75% of the total population living in cities and 23%, or 22 million people, living in the Mexico City metropolitan area. Mexico began an aggressive and far-reaching national family planning effort in 1973 to reduce the population growth rate from its then all-time high of 3.4%; population growth was reduced to 1.9% in the decade 1990-2000.

Mexico is also a young nation. Almost 40% of Mexicans are less than 15 years old. Nearly 40% of the population lives in the high-plateau central region which comprises 14% of the land area. Mexican customs and traditions are an intricate mixture of the Spanish and the indigenous with about two-thirds of the population being "mestizo" (mixed indigenous and Spanish blood). Mexico has largely avoided racial divisions by proudly considering its population a distinct Mexican race, celebrated as Dia de la Raza on the October 12 annual holiday. Economic conditions determine social class.

Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion. Small groups of Protestant Christians are often affiliated with and supported by U.S. churches.

Spanish is the national language, spoken by 97% of the population. In some remote areas, only Indian dialects are spoken. The literacy rate is about 75%.

Public Institutions Last Updated: 7/11/2003 2:38 PM

The country's official name is the United Mexican States (Estados Unidos Mexicanos). The 1917 constitution provided for a federal republic, which is composed of 31 states and the Federal District where the capital is located. The government is made up of executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The military forces are small and have stayed out of politics since 1946.

The President, elected for a single six-year term ("sexenio"), proposes and executes laws that are passed by Mexico's Congress; the President also has the power to govern by decree in some economic and financial areas. No Vice President is elected; if an incumbent dies or leaves office before a term has been completed, the Congress elects a provisional President.

The Congress is composed of two houses: a 128-seat Senate, and a 500-seat Chamber of Deputies. Both houses are made up of a mix of direct election and proportional representation legislators; Congressional elections are held every three years with 2003 being an election year. Mexico has a stringent term-limit law, allowing no Senator or Deputy to seek re-election. The judicial system, which is based on Roman civil law, consists of a Supreme Court and Federal and local courts. The President appoints Supreme Court justices with Senate approval. Governors serve for six-year terms and each state has a unicameral legislature. There are local governments at the municipal level (no counties). Mayors and city council members are popularly elected for three-year terms.

Until the National Action Party's (PAN) victory in Mexico's 2000 presidential election, the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) had controlled both the Presidency and the Congress continuously since its founding in 1929.

Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 7/28/2003 1:01 PM

Mexico City is the cultural hub of the country. The arts play an important role in national life and are heavily subsidized by the government. Influences of indigenous cultures, the Spanish colonial period, as well as North American contemporary culture, are evident in architecture, literature, and art. The richness and diversity of Mexico's cultural heritage is reflected in murals by Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, and David Alfaro Siqueiros; paintings by Rufino Tamayo; and writings by Octavio Paz, Juan Rulfo, Carlos Fuentes, and Carlos Monsiváis.

Major arts festivals include the Cervantino International Festival in Guanajuato; the Festival of Mexico in the Historic Center of Mexico City; the International Music Festival in Morelia, Michoacán; the International Festival of Contemporary Art in León, Guanajuato; the José Limón International Dance Festival in Mazatlán; and the Festival of the Borders in Mexicali and Tijuana. Nine U.S.-Mexico bi-national centers from Hermosillo to Merida promote understanding etween "Estadounidenses" and Mexicans through the teaching of English to more than 30,000 Mexicans annually; teaching Spanish to foreigners; and sponsoring cultural and educational activities. The Benjamin Franklin Library, part of the Public Affairs Section of the Embassy, is located in Mexico City, but serves audiences through the country.

Mexico's interest in science dates from the pre-Hispanic period when pyramids were constructed that served in part to make astronomical obervations. Today, Mexico, in cooperation with the United States, is constructing a large radio telescope in the state of Puebla, which will be among the most precise instruments of its kind in the world. Mexico provides unique opportunities for study in geology, marine biology and botany, among others; every year hundreds of scientists from U.S. universities and government agencies engage in joint scientific research with Mexican collaboration.

Public Education is highly centralized under the federal Secretariat of Public Education (SEP). Mexicans who can afford to send their children to private schools almost always choose to do so. Still, more than 90% of all students are educated under SEP auspices. Teachers comprise half of the federal workforce. Some 70% of Mexicans complete only primary school; about 10% finish some higher education, including university, teaching training colleges, or two-year technical institutes. The main teacher training institutions are the Universidad Pedagógica Nacional and the Escuela Normal Superior.

Traditionally, Mexican students have attended public universities -- the most prestigious of which is the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the Americas and for many years the only option. Two-thirds of the older Mexican political leaders are UNAM alumni. The political turnover in the Presidential election of 2000 also brought the first Mexican President to have obtained an undergraduate degree from a private school (Universidad Iberoamericana).

Other university options include: the Instituto Politécnico Nacional, the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana with its three campuses in the Mexico City metropolitan area, and 31 autonomous universities, many of which have multiple campuses located in the various states. Today, about 25% of university students are enrolled in private universities. The Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITEMS or the Tec) has 33 campuses linked by satellite across the country. Other highly recognized institutions of higher learning are the five campuses of Iberoamericana University; Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México (ITAM), and the University of the Americas in Puebla. El Colegio de México in Mexico City, home to top programs in international relations and public administration, also has an excellent research reputation and one of the best social science libraries in Latin America.

Given the interest among Mexicans in continuing their studies in the United States, the U.S. Department of State facilitates 14 U.S. educational advising centers across the country. The Institute of International Education (IIE) reports in Open Doors that in 2002 there were 12,516 Mexicans studying in the U.S., making Mexico the seventh (7th) largest source country for foreign students.

Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 7/11/2003 12:20 AM

During the last 20 years, the Mexican economy has undergone a dramatic reorientation away from protectionist policies. After decades of import-substitution practices and extensive state intervention, Mexico is now cited as a model for countries intent on pursuing outward-looking and market-oriented economic policies.

In 1994, Mexico entered into a comprehensive free trade agreement with the United States and Canada--the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA; and in 1999, Mexico concluded a similar agreement with the European Union. Tariff levels, as high as 100% before Mexico's 1986 accession to GATT (now WTO), currently average about 4% on a trade-weighted basis. The Mexican Government's divestiture of airlines, banks, the telephone company, mines, and steel plants were major elements of a successful privatization program that has continued. Reduction and elimination of subsidies made a major contribution toward transforming a fiscal deficit that had reached a height of 16% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 1987. Mexico's deficit was a very manageable 1.2% of GDP in 1998, and in 2003 the deficit is expected to continue on its downward trend to 0.5% of GDP.

By turning increasingly to private capital for such basic infrastructure investment as toll roads and ports, the government has been able to expand budget outlays on education, health, and agricultural development. GDP growth for 2002 was 0.9%. Inflation closed 2002 at 5.7%, and the central bank targeted an inflation rate of 3.0% for 2003.

NAFTA significantly expanded U.S.- Mexican economic ties. In 1999, Mexico overtook Japan as the second largest trading partner of the United States, second only to Canada. NAFTA also raised Mexico's attractiveness as a recipient of foreign direct investment (FDI). During the first five years of NAFTA, the country cumulatively received $36 billion in FDI, twice the amount received during the five years prior to the signing of the accord. FDI reached $13.6 billion in 2002. About 73% of that investment comes from the U.S., which is further evidence of the two countries increasing commercial integration. Awards of major projects to American firms are common and American companies comment frequently on the greatly improved business climate, though security concerns have become a mild deterrent to investment and have affected the profit margins of companies operating in Mexico.

Mexico has a number of strengths heralding a period of sustained economic growth. Mexico is one of the world's major oil producers and one of the top three suppliers of crude to the U.S. The country is also well-endowed with mineral wealth including silver, copper, and zinc. Its manufacturing sector continues to grow. Automotive parts and textiles are its most significant products. Mexico is also an important producer of steel, glass, cement, and petrochemicals. Manufactured products account for about 89% of its exports compared to 80% in 1993 and only 14% in 1982. In-bond assembly and manufacturing are rapid growth sectors and key contributors to Mexico's export growth, employing more than one million workers.

Despite all of Mexico's natural resources and economic advances, the country is experiencing the consequences of a low level of competitiveness. Potential foreign investors now weigh the costs of extra security and the lack of law enforcement against the benefits of a relatively skilled labor force and proximity to the United States. The amount of paperwork and legal steps to open a business is overwhelming, and the effects of corruption are a defacto extra tax on profits. In addition, the cost of electricity is increasing while its dependability declines: the government has been unable to respond to demands to allow private investment in electrical production but also cannot afford the infrastructure investments necessary to keep the sector operating efficiently. Fiscal, judicial, energy, and labor reform all remain pending and are essential to make Mexico globally competitive.

Mexico exhibits extreme regional differences in development. The richer, more vibrant and dynamic North contains the country's most modern industrial plants and is tightly integrated with the U.S. economy. The poorer, lagging South contains outdated plants and an inadequate infrastructure. Central Mexico shows signs of both regions. There are also extreme differences within some sectors, particularly agriculture. Modern and efficient export-oriented industrial estates coexist with poor and inefficient subsistence farms. The banking sector, which had collapsed with the devaluation of the peso several years ago, is experiencing a slow but steady recovery, leaving businesses with limited access to credit. As a result, the formal economy cannot generate sufficient jobs to absorb all of the new entrants into the labor market, pushing many of them (estimates range from 40% to 80%) into the informal sector.

Other challenges in social development include wide disparities in income distribution, low nutrition, inadequate health care, low secondary education levels, and inefficient public services. With a total population of 98 million, forty million people live under the poverty line; 26 million live in abject poverty. Of Mexico's unionized workers, the Confederation of Mexican Workers claims to have 6.5 million members; the Workers' Congress, which encompasses all PRI-aligned unions and labor federations, claims to represent 11 million Mexican workers; and the independent UNT (National Union of Workers) may have as many as 900,000 workers under its umbrella. There are no public figures available to confirm these figures, they are based on information from the unions themselves.

Transportation

Automobiles Last Updated: 8/18/2003 9:46 AM

An automobile is desirable at all posts, both to get to work and for recreation in or out of town. However, some employees use public transportation to avoid contributing to traffic congestion and the problem of air pollution. Buses, taxis, and rental cars are readily available. Official transportation to and from work is not provided.

Types of Vehicles and Servicing. Traffic and parking make power steering and automatic transmissions desirable. Mexico uses speed bumps to control traffic speed; vehicles with high clearances encounter less difficulty in crossing them than do vehicles with low carriages. Use air-conditioning for lower altitude posts, where year-round temperatures reach uncomfortable highs. In Mexico City, drive with closed windows to keep out pollution. In the more temperate climates, such as Guadalajara, air-conditioning is optional but desirable.

General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan, Honda, Renault, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Mercedes Benz, Maserati, Saab, Seat, Porche, Peugeot, Ferrari, Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Infiniti, and Volkswagen cars are sold in Mexico. Adequate repair services are available for those makes and for the American Motors Jeep, which was made in Mexico until 1986. Basic model cars are the easiest to service. The cost of parts is slightly higher than in the U.S., and parts for late model American cars-even though a vehicle with the same model name is manufactured in Mexico-may not be available in Mexico and must be ordered from the U.S.

Some cars, especially large ones with optional equipment, can lose up to 25% of their power in Mexico City's high altitude. Tune vehicles for high altitude driving to ensure efficient operation.

Gasoline. Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), the national petroleum company, sells vehicle fuel. There are two grades (both unleaded): Premium (93 octane) in a red pump and Magna (87 octane) in a green pump. Therefore, retain catalytic converters on your vehicle. A few stations in cities and along major highways sell diesel. Keep fuel tanks at least half full, as stations are fewer and farther between than in the U.S. and may occasionally run out of gas. Fuel is sold by the liter (3.785 liters equal 1 gallon). Use a locking gas cap. Gasoline prices in Mexico are established by governmental authorities in Mexico City and not by individual franchises; in the summer of 2003, one liter of gas costs about seven pesos or $.70, with four liters to a galleon. Since 1991, all cars manufactured in Mexico are equipped with catalytic converters to reduce vehicle emissions that contribute to an acute air pollution problem in the Valley of Mexico-which includes Mexico City and adjacent areas in the State of Mexico.

Driving in Mexico. Driving is on the right. Traffic congestion is common in cities, and extremely severe in Mexico City. Mexico honors a valid driver's license, regardless of origin. Dependents who are more than 16 years of age can obtain a driver's permit for a small fee. Road courtesies in Mexico, particularly on the long stretches of two-lane highway between Mexico City and the border, are different than in the U.S. Two-way traffic will often move over to the shoulders to allow vehicles to pass in the center of the road. Unwary U.S. drivers risk head-on collisions if they do not pick up on this quickly. Also, drivers wanting to pass will turn on their left turn signal and leave it on until the pass is completed. Large trucks, as well as cars, often use the same signal to inform a vehicle behind them that it is safe to pass.

Toll roads ("cuota") are designated by the letter "D" after the highway number and are faster and safer than free ("libre") routes. The toll roads are more expensive than in the U.S.; in some cases, the tolls are exorbitant. For example, the drive from Mexico City to Acapulco costs nearly $50 in tolls, prompting some of the hotels to refund their clients the toll costs. However, it is worth the extra cost since the libre routes are very crowded and in very poor condition. Additionally, the Mexican Department of Tourism provides a highway emergency assistance patrol for the cuotas called "Angeles Verdes" (the Green Angels), easily identifiable in a green truck.

Wandering livestock, unlighted vehicles, and unmarked road hazards make nighttime driving dangerous on all highways. For this reason, employees on official travel are prohibited from inter-city driving after dark and personal travel by car at night is strongly discouraged.

Vehicle Insurance and Registration Mexican law requires drivers entering Mexico to have liability insurance issued by a Mexican company. An employee may obtain coverage under the Embassy's group policy. It becomes effective on entering Mexico, if you advise GSO in advance to allow time to mail or FAX the policy. (Calling from the United States, 011-52-55-5080-2780 is the direct GSO number; also see the web site of post: http://mexicocity.state.gov/gso). Then you must formally apply for the policy within 15 days of entering Mexico. The following information is required to apply for the Embassy policy: vehicle make, model, year, serial or vehicle identification number (VIN), and anticipated date of entry in Mexico. An employee who does not have coverage under this group policy should purchase short-term liability coverage before crossing the border. Several U.S. and Mexican insurance companies offer plans that cover a driver for 30 days after crossing the border.

Comprehensive and collision insurance are available from both U.S. and Mexican companies. The Employee Service Center (A/OPR/ FMSS/ESC), Department of State, has brochures of the U.S. companies. Be sure your insurance is valid in Mexico, as fender benders are common.

Employees and their families may buy one Mexican automobile tax free in addition to having an imported car (see Notes for Travelers: Customs, Duties, and Passage at the end of this Report). The original title (or an original letter from the bank describing the car and stating that the bank holds the title), bill of sale, and certificate of origin are required to apply for Mexican license plates-which can take up to 4 months to obtain. The Secretariat of Foreign Relations (SRE) issues diplomatic, technical and administrative staff, and consular plates upon receipt of the above documentation. SRE will hold the original title or original bank letter until the employee transfers from post; obtain for your records a certified copy of the original title to your vehicle before departing for Mexico. Cars purchased in Mexico come with temporary registration. All imported cars should have foreign registration and plates, preferably valid for at least four months from date of arrival to avoid being stopped by the police until Mexican plates are obtained.

Mexico has no restrictions on types of cars that may be imported. The Chief of Mission and Consuls General can import personally owned vehicles for the term of the assignment, but the value cannot exceed $60,000. These employees also can buy two Mexican cars exempt from value added taxes. All other accredited U.S. personnel are allowed to import only one U.S. vehicle of any brand and its value cannot exceed $40,000. These employees also can buy one Mexican car exempt from value added taxes. If you plan to sell your car in Mexico at the end of your tour, the buyers in all cases would have to pay customs taxes if the free entry permit is less than three years old. Mexican vehicles bought locally may be sold locally; in this case, the buyer is not liable for the IVA tax as long as the vehicle has been in the possession of an accredited individual.

Transportation

Local Transportation Last Updated: 7/11/2003 12:36 AM

There are two types of taxis in Mexico City, "libre" taxis, and "sitio" taxis. The libre taxis are the green taxis that can hailed from the street corner. These are very inexpensive and plentiful, but can be unsafe. Embassy security advises that Americans avoid the metered libre taxis and instead opt for the more expensive "sitio" taxis, which operate from a taxi stand with a dispatcher or from a stand in front of an hotel. Radio taxis are also available. The Mexico City airport offers a pre-pay sitio taxi service that is very reliable.

Many employees and family members use city buses and the metro subway system, observing security precautions that are appropriate for a large city. "Peseros," mini buses that carry passengers over assigned routes, provide a convenient service for about 30 cents one-way. Licensed, chauffeured rental cars are also available, at prices comparable to taxi service in the U.S.

Mexico has extensive, inexpensive bus service throughout the country. Quality of service ranges from air-conditioned, luxury buses with reserved seats, that serve tourist destinations to often overcrowded buses providing the basics.

Transportation

Regional Transportation Last Updated: 7/11/2003 12:38 AM

Railroad passenger service within Mexico is inexpensive, but covers only a few routes-including a very limited number of connections with the U.S.-and is being improved with new equipment.

Air service is good between major Mexican and U.S. cities. Within Mexico, air routes fan out from Mexico City. Domestic air travel, however, is expensive. Air travel between Mexican cities along the border is accomplished more easily by using U.S. airports.

Communications

Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 7/11/2003 12:44 AM

Local and international services are adequate, and both domestic and international calls may be dialed directly. TelMex, the leading private telephone company in Mexico, provides line installation for a reasonable fee. Calls to the U.S. from Mexico are comparable in cost to calls from the U.S. to Mexico. International calls outside of North America are expensive; however, telephone service within Mexico is inexpensive. Telegrams are accepted in English and may be billed to home telephone numbers. Domestic and international FAX service is available.

Long distance service is available by several carriers other than TelMex: Alestra (AT&T-Bancomer), Avantel (MCIBanamex), and Miditel. Most local service is provided by TelMex.

Intercentral office connectivity is by fiber-optics and telephonic equipment is digital, offering such features as three-party conferencing, two calls on one line, and caller identification.

Telephone calls made with a credit card offer a wide variety of applications. Unfortunately, security is not up to the same standards as the U.S., and caution is recommended when using credit cards to place calls.

Communications

Telephones and Telecommunications

Wireless Service Last Updated: 7/11/2003 12:43 AM Along with standard landlines, Mexico has two major providers of cellular phone services: TelCel and USACell. Both providers are affiliated with major telecommunications companies: TelCel with TelMex (Telefonos de Mexico) and USACell with Avantel, a division of MCI. Prices are very competitive between the two providers and only slightly higher than that which is available in the U.S. Both suppliers offer contracts that provide the phone, "free minutes," and access to the cellular network. At the end of the contract, the purchaser owns the cell phone. Typical contracts run for 18 months. TelCel also offers an alternative to a contract called the Amigo phone, where one buys the phone and pays for the minutes separately to be used as needed. The cell phone units offered for both contract and the Amigo plan are the same phones available in the U.S. They include, but are not limited to: Motorola, Nokia, Ericsson, and Philips with both digital and analog features. GSM technology is not supported in Mexico.

Communications

Internet Last Updated: 8/11/2003 11:28 AM

Dial-up Internet access is now widely available in Mexico from several large providers, and broadband in the form of DSL and cable is growing more and more popular and affordable.

The dial-up providers include Telmex (which holds a virtual monopoly), Alestra (a division of AT&T), Yahoo, and AOL. Most providers charge monthly fees in the $20USD range, with no installation charges. Telmex does charge roughly $0.15 per phone call after 100 calls in a calendar month.

DSL access is offered through Telmex in cooperation with Prodigy. Speeds range from 256kbps to 2Mbps, with monthly rates ranging from $50 to $450 depending on speed. Cablevision provides 256kbps service for $45 monthly in some areas of Mexico City. AT&T is offering high-speed wireless connections with speeds from 128kbps to 512kbps for prices ranging from $40 to $90 monthly.

Communications

Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 1/24/2005 5:32 PM

Embassy personnel use the Brownsville, Texas, P.O. Box mailing address as the primary means for sending and receiving mail to and from the USA. Transit time for mail delivery between the Brownsville Post Office and the U.S. Embassy/Consulates is one to two working days for most types of mail. (Standard Department of State pouch restrictions apply to use of the pouch.) Insured, certified, and registered services on incoming mail are available only to the U.S. Post Office in Brownsville. This mail is shipped between the U.S. Embassy warehouse and the post by pouch, at the risk of the sender. Insured and registered service is not available for outgoing mail except for insured service from Mexico City. Outgoing parcels may not exceed 108 inches in length plus girth, or 70 pounds in weight.

Employees may receive packages from the U.S. sent by a parcel express company by using the Embassy warehouse street address in Brownsville (as distinct from the post office box address).

Incoming parcels that exceed the pouch size or weight limits, or contain delicate equipment subject to damage if shipped by pouch, are shipped from Brownsville to post by truck at the employee's expense; costs are reasonable. The mailing addresses are as follows:

Mexico City (Mexico, D.F.)

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Embassy (Office or agency) Box 9000 Brownsville, Texas 78520-0900

Parcels via DHL/FEDEX Service: Full Name U.S. Logistics Center 225 S. Vermillion Avenue Brownsville, Texas 78521

International Mail: Full name U.S. Embassy Reforma 305 Colonia Cuauhtemoc 06500 Mexico, D.F., Mexico

Letter mail via Department of State pouch: Full Name/Section 8700 Mexico Place Washington, D.C. 20521-8700

Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Consulate General Box 10545 El Paso, Texas 79995-0545

Letter mail via pouch: Full Name 3270 Ciudad Juarez Place Washington, DC 20521-3270

Guadalajara, Jalisco

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Consulate General P.O. Box 9001 Brownsville, Texas 78520-0901

International Mail: Full Name U.S. Consulate General Apartado Postal 39-1044171 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Letter mail via Department of State pouch: Full Name 3280 Guadalajara Place Washington, DC 20521-3280

Hermosillo, Sonora

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Consulate-Hermosillo P.O. Box 1689 Nogales, AZ 85628

International Mail: Full Name U.S. Consulate Apartado Postal 972 83000 Hermosillo, Sonora

Letter mail via Department of State pouch: Full Name 3290 Hermosillo Place Washington, D.C. 20521-3290

Matamoros, Tamaulipas

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Consulate Matamoros Box 9004 Brownsville, Texas 78520-0904

Letter Mail via Pouch: Full Name 3300 Matamoros Place Washington, D.C. 20521-3300

Merida,Yucatan

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Consulate - MER P.O. Box 9003 Brownsville, Texas 78520-0903

International Mail: Full Name U.S. Consulate General Apartado Postal 130 97000 Merida, Yucatan

Letter mail via Department of State pouch: Full Name 3320 Merida Place Washington, D.C. 20521-3320

Nogales, Sonora

Mail Direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Consulate - Nogales P.O. Box 1729 Nogales, AZ 85628-1729

Letter mail via Department of State pouch: Full Name 3380 Nogales Place Washington, D.C. 20521-3380

International Mail: Full Name Consulado Americano de Nogales Apartado Postal No. 267 Nogales, Sonora MEX C.P. 84000

Monterrey, Nuevo Leon

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Consulate General P.O. Box 9002 Brownsville, Texas 78520-0902

International Mail: Full Name U.S. Consulate General Apartado Postal 152 64006 Monterrey, Nuevo Leon

Letter mail via Department of State pouch: Full Name 3330 Monterrey Place Washington, D.C. 20521-3330

Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U.S. Consulate Box 3089 Laredo, Texas 78044-3089

Parcels via Parcel Express Service: Full Name U.S. Embassy Warehouse (Post and Office or agency) 620 Logan Street Laredo, Texas 78041-6246

Letter mail via Department of State pouch: Full Name 3340 Nuevo Laredo Place Washington, D.C. 20521-3340

Tijuana, Baja California

Mail direct via U.S. Post Office: Full Name U. S. Consulate General P.O. Box 439039 San Diego, California 92143-9039

Letter mail via Department of State pouch: Full Name 3350 Tijuana Place Washington, D.C. 20521-3350

Unclassified Computer Operations Post's unclassified Local Area Network (LAN) currently supports approximately 500 customers. Embassy and Consulates are certified OpenNet Plus. Applications include: PER, REMS/RPA, Consular NIV and ACS, CAJE, Exchange E-mail and homegrown applications for the various sections: GSO, ESO, OBO, etc.

Communications

Radio and TV Last Updated: 7/11/2003 2:32 PM

The radio spectrum in Mexico City is saturated by radio stations operating mostly with state-of-the-art equipment. All companies, some of which own as many as 12 stations, have at least one morning news magazine program that runs three to four hours. The leading stations include live reports from the U.S. and other world capitals, though they emphasize local and national events. Many Spanish-language AM and FM broadcasts feature music in English. Along the border, U.S. broadcasts are also available.

Mexican television (TV) broadcasts on the same standard (NTSC) as in the U.S., and Mexican TV companies generally operate with state-of-the-art equipment. Two networks dominate Mexican television. Televisa is the older and highest rated one, but TV Azteca-privatized in 1994-has proven itself to be a worthy adversary. Each network broadcasts on three or four channels, featuring soap operas ("telenovelas"), series, variety shows, children's programs, sports (including major U.S. broadcasts), movies, and news coverage. Although most programs are produced or dubbed in Spanish, some movies are shown in the original language with subtitles. Border posts receive both Mexican and U.S. broadcasts. The UHF spectrum is not as crowded as in the U.S. mainly because pay television became available in most major market neighborhoods and in hundreds of small towns, at reasonable prices, before smaller companies resorted to UHF frequencies. Though "pay TV" companies initially simply passed through U.S. network signals, they now relay the "Latin" services that many U.S. companies have set up. There are also cable-only programs (including an all news service in Spanish) produced nationally. C-Band dishes enjoyed an early heyday, but direct-to-home broadcasts on the Ku-Band are taking a greater market share.

Communications

Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated: 7/11/2003 3:01 PM

Although sold at prices substantially higher than in the U.S., a wide selection of U.S. magazines and newspapers and a limited selection of books can be found in most Mexican cities. The international editions of Time and Newsweek are sold locally, as are the editions of such major magazines as U.S. News & World Report, Popular Science, People, and The Economist. In a joint venture with The Miami Herald, the newspaper El Universal launched an English language daily - The Herald - in early 2003; the newspaper reprints The Miami Herald's international section with two pages of local content. The Guadalajara Colony Reporter is also an English language newspaper published in Guadalajara with more emphasis on local content. Delivery of local Mexican papers, as well as a selection of U.S. papers (The New York Times, The Miami Herald, The Los Angeles Times and The Wall Street Journal) is available in Mexico City and at the nine consulates throughout the country. USA Today, the Miami edition of the International Herald Tribune, and papers from neighboring U.S. states are also available.

Mexico has specialized magazines in English on such subjects as computers, cars, scientific innovations, medical journals, and women that are sold in major cities at bookstores and popular restaurants. However, most employees get U.S. magazines and books by subscription or mail from the U.S. Employees should use the U.S. Embassy Post Office Box address for all subscriptions.

Health and Medicine

Medical Facilities Last Updated: 7/30/2003 1:17 PM

The Embassy Health Unit is staffed by a regional medical officer, a nurse practitioner, a contract nurse/CPR instructor, and a laboratory technologist. The unit provides routine office care, physical examinations, and emergency assistance. The regional medical officer -- psychiatry (RMO-P) based in Mexico City -- is also available for consultation and services. The Embassy Health Unit gives all required immunizations, except yellow fever. The Embassy laboratory can perform basic parasitology, blood, and urine exams.

The regional medical officer, in collaboration with the medical adviser of each post, maintains a list of English-speaking physicians and dentists. During periodic visits to each post, the regional medical officer monitors available medical services.

Pharmacies in the post cities carry most drugs at reasonable prices, but occasional shortages occur. Although many prescription and over-the-counter medications that are manufactured in Mexico are manufactured by Mexican affiliates of U.S. firms, there may be some minor differences in formulation; thus, consult with a health practitioner before purchasing locally manufactured medications. Bring prescriptions and an adequate supply of prescription medications. If refills must be sent from the U.S., make arrangements beforehand. A supply of basic medicine chest items should also be brought.

The Department of State Medical Program covers an employee's spouse and children who are unmarried and less than 21 years old. U.S. Government contractors and contract employees, children 21 years of age and older, and other dependents are not eligible for treatment or care under the medical program; nor are they eligible for medical travel. The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB) covers the employee, the employee's spouse, and unmarried children up to age 22. Employees should provide insurance for any children, or other dependents, who, by reason of age or relationship, are not eligible for the Department's medical program or FEHB.

The American-British Cowdray (ABC) Hospital in Mexico City, staffed partially by English-speaking, U.S. trained physicians, is recommended for emergencies and routine hospitalizations. There are other well-equipped private hospitals available with similar staff. Mexico City has many English-speaking, U.S. trained physicians, including medical and dental specialists. For major medical and surgical problems, patients may be evacuated to the U.S. The designated evacuation point is Miami, Florida.

Ciudad Juarez. The full range of medical services is available in El Paso, Texas.

Guadalajara. English-speaking, U.S.-trained physicians and several well-equipped hospitals and clinics are available and provide adequate medical care.

Hermosillo. Hospitals and clinics are adequate for routine and emergency care. Many doctors are U.S. trained and certified. A full range of medical services is available in Tucson, Arizona, a four-hour drive or a one-hour flight away.

Matamoros. The full range of medical services is available across the river in Brownsville, Texas, and other nearby cities in the Rio Grande Valley.

Merida. Merida has been designated an unhealthful post. The incidence of diarrheal diseases and hepatitis is high. Malaria is rare; however, there are incidents of other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. Medical facilities are inadequate despite the presence of competent doctors and dentists. In the event of serious illness, the patient will be evacuated to Mexico City or Miami, Florida.

Monterrey. Medical facilities in Monterrey are modern and adequate. Two large, well-equipped private hospitals have been approved for routine and emergency care. U.S. trained and highly specialized physicians and dentists are available. Difficult or unusual cases may be evacuated to Texas.

Nogales. This consulate has the poorest medical resources of all the consulates. Although it is a border town, most of the medical problems are referred to either Tucson or Hermosillo. Tucson is approximately an hour and a half by car.

Nuevo Laredo. Consulate employees use the medical and dental facilities in Laredo, Texas, or the medical center in San Antonio, Texas.

Tijuana. Complete health care is available across the border in the San Diego or the Chula Vista area.

Tuxtla Gutierrez. A USDA installation is in this southern Mexico region. Private clinics and hospitals are minimally adequate, despite many well-trained physicians. In the event of serious medical problems, evacuation to Mexico City or to Miami, Florida, will be authorized.

Health and Medicine

Community Health Last Updated: 7/11/2003 3:05 PM

Air pollution is widely recognized as a problem in Mexico City. In a study published in the spring of 1999, the World Resources Institute rated Mexico City as the number one city in the world for health risks to children age 5 and under due to air pollution. This pollution is caused in part by rapid urbanization and industrialization, but mostly by the huge and ever-growing number of vehicles. Nonetheless, the air quality has improved in some categories since the early 1990's. According to the Mexican Government, the lead and sulfur dioxide levels are consistently within acceptable levels, as defined by the World Health Organization; and the nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide levels are rarely unacceptable. The levels for declaring environmental emergencies were recently tightened in response to evidence of negative health effects from ozone and particulate matter. Although there were fewer ozone peaks above 330 parts per million annually in the past few years, it is still above acceptable levels over 85% of the year. Suspended particulate matter exceeds the standards 20% to 30% of the year. Because of the continuing concerns about pollution, the standard length of tour remains two years.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Boiling, iodine, or chlorine treatment is necessary. The Embassy Chancery treatment plant provides the Embassy with chlorinated water, which employees can pour into their own containers for home and family use.

Tuberculosis is still present in the general population; thus domestic employees should be screened for it. Malaria and other serious tropical diseases are present only in southern, rural areas of Mexico. Consult the Embassy Health Unit before departure. Persons who will reside or travel in southern Mexico should be vaccinated for yellow fever before departing the U.S. because yellow fever is endemic in parts of southern Mexico and Central America. The Health Unit does not stock yellow fever vaccine.

Intestinal infections are prevalent in Mexico. Most infections are due solely to the fact that Mexican bacteria are different from U.S. bacteria. Nevertheless, parasitic infections (including ameba and giardia) are common. Therefore, select food sources and restaurants carefully. Clean and treat raw vegetables and fruits with iodine. Non-pasteurized dairy products may carry brucellosis and tuberculosis. Therefore, purchase only reliably pasteurized and refrigerated products.

Marijuana and cocaine and other illegal, addictive drugs are readily available, despite Mexican efforts to control drug trafficking. Drug offenders, including teenagers, are often jailed for lengthy periods.

Health and Medicine

Preventive Measures Last Updated: 7/11/2003 3:07 PM

All persons assigned to Mexico City or constituent posts should be briefed by the Health Unit. All adults should receive pulmonary function screening before assignment to Mexico City due to the high altitude. Assignments may not be permitted for people with multiple allergy problems, asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, poorly controlled high blood pressure, coronary artery disease (angina), cardiac arrhythmia, or cardiac valvular disease.

Individuals with sickle cell trait should carefully consider the altitude of this post before applying for assignment. Short term (TDY) assignments carry an added risk because of lack of time for acclimatization. Dehydration and stress from exercise or illness compound the basic risks of high altitude.

Cigarette smokers should be particularly aware that they risk increased cardiopulmonary problems due to the altitude and pollution. The combination of altitude in Mexico's high plateau and pollution in the Valley of Mexico with smoking may be dangerous for pregnant women and the fetus.

Persons assigned to Mexico should not abandon their exercise routines. Numerous health clubs are available throughout the city, as well as a facility in the Embassy. Those who wish to exercise outdoors should do so in the morning, when the pollution levels are lowest.

Rabies is endemic in Mexico, thus keep pet immunizations current. Rabies vaccine is available in the Health Unit for all who wish to be vaccinated. It may be especially advisable for children, joggers, and rural workers to be vaccinated.

Recommended immunizations for Mexico include diphtheria, tetanus, polio, MMR, and yellow fever. Infectious (viral) hepatitis is endemic in Mexico; therefore, Hepatitis A immunization is also recommended.

Newcomers to high altitude should allow time for acclimatization. In the first several weeks at post, avoid overeating, alcoholic beverages, and excessive physical exertion. Light headedness, insomnia, slight headaches, and shortness of breath are common initial reactions to the altitude. Adequate rest and fluids help alleviate the discomfort.

Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 7/14/2003 11:27 AM

The Mission employs a Local Employment Advisor to assist spouses in networking for jobs on the local economy. The program has placed numerous spouses to date and is currently rated number one worldwide in job placement among posts with this program. The Mission also offers many Eligible Family Member (EFM) employment opportunities within the embassy. The majority of positions are full-time in the administrative, clerical, and consular fields. Spanish language proficiency and computer skills are required for many of the consular and other professional jobs.

Occasionally, the Department chooses to staff unfilled Information Management Specialist vacancies with EFMs as Information Management Associates (IMA) and Junior Officer consular slots with EFMs as part of the Professional Associates (PA) program. The IMA positions are advertised locally; PA vacancies for the consular positions are announced worldwide and require training in Washington, D.C. If you are interested in either type of position, please let the Human Resources Office know. Post also has around six consular associate positions. These are visa adjudicator slots that require the consular course offered by FSI and Spanish. If interested in these positions, please contact the Human Resources Office in the Embassy.

Some of the Consulates have positions for family members. Many EFMs assigned to the border posts of Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, Matamoros, Nogales and Nuevo Laredo choose to find work in the United States. Interior posts such as Hermosillo, Monterrey and Guadalajara have a few EFM opportunities in their consular sections, or as office assistants.

For information on employment opportunities overseas, eligible family members will find it useful to talk with the Family Liaison Office and the Office of Overseas Employment in Washington, D.C. Positions currently filled by Embassy dependents are listed on the Family Member Employment Report (FAMER) at http:''hrweb.hr.state.gov/flo/employment/.

We now have in place a de facto work agreement with the Mexican Government that allows spouses to work on the local economy. All employment in the local economy must be approved by the Chief of Mission (COM) beforehand. Spouses interested in working in the local economy should check in with the Human Resources Office for the procedures on requesting COM approval and Government of Mexico approval. The cost of processing fees is approximately US$160.00 per year.

American Embassy - Mexico City

Post City Last Updated: 7/17/2003 10:30 AM

Mexico City, formally known as Mexico, Distrito Federal (D.F.), is a cosmopolitan capital. The glass-walled sky-scrapers lining the Paseo de la Reforma, the stunning architecture of the Museum of Anthropology, the variety of international restaurants, deluxe hotels, the Lomas residential area with its stylish homes, and modern department stores and supermarkets are all signs of a world metropolitan center. Yet surrounding this glittering center are mass housing developments, barrios and degenerating neighborhoods typical of a rapidly growing city of a developing country. Heavy industry and millions of motor vehicles make the city one of most polluted in the world.

Mexico City lies in a long, flat valley on the high plateau of central Mexico. Many of the peaks encircling the city are volcanic-including glacier-topped Popocatepetl, "The Warrior," and Iztacchihautl, "The Sleeping Lady." Popo and Izta, the local, affectionate names for these peaks, provide a spectacular setting for the city on the days when a drop in air pollution makes them visible.

Although Mexico City is only 19 degrees North of the Equator, the high altitude (7,350 feet) creates a moderate climate all year. Thus, despite its tropical latitude, the city normally has a pleasant, annual temperature range of 42 to 79°F. The warmest month is May when the temperature can spike into the upper eighties for a period. The weather is coolest November through February when night and early morning temperatures on occasion may drop to freezing. The two seasons are dry and rainy. The latter lasts from June through September when several hours of rain fall daily, usually in the afternoon and evening; yet mornings are normally sunny. Nights and evenings after the storms are cool and damp. March through May are warm and dusty. These months are at the end of the dry season making this time the most polluted of the year. Average humidity range is 44%-73% and annual rainfall averages 30 inches- 90% of which falls between May and October.

As of July 2003, about 48,500 American residents living in the Embassy's consular district were registered with the Embassy; however, post estimates that 65,000 Americans reside in Mexico City.

Security Last Updated: 7/14/2003 11:50 AM

The Department of State rates Mexico City's crime situation as CRITICAL (its highest designator). Mission personnel are troubled by residential break-ins, armed robberies, and other violent crimes at rates higher than in any large city in the U.S. Employees and their family members should not leave valuables in hotel rooms, carry large amounts of money, or wear expensive jewelry on the street. Wearing a plastic watch and leaving expensive-looking jewelry at home will significantly improve your security profile. Walking in an isolated area anywhere in the city, especially after dark, raises a real risk of armed robbery. The post discourages the use of roving taxis, those with green and white license plates, because of the threat of robbery by the drivers or their criminal accomplices. Further security information is available on the Internet at the State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs web site www.travel.state.gov/mexico.html.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 7/17/2003 10:31 AM

The U.S. Mission to Mexico is the U.S. Government's largest diplomatic mission. To support the enormous amount of official and unofficial interchange between the U.S. and Mexico, the Mission includes the Embassy, nine consulates, and 13 consular agencies. The Mission countrywide employs more than 1,700 people -- more than 60% of whom are Mexican. In addition to the diplomatic relations between the two governments, the Mission fosters closer relations through programs in the fields of agriculture, commerce, tourism, culture, education, labor movement, journalism, economy, transportation, education, law, science, and the environment.

Agencies within the Mission include State, Agriculture (Foreign Agricultural Service-FAS, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service-APHIS, Agriculture Research Service-ARS, and the Agricultural Trade Office-ATO), Commerce (Foreign Commercial Service-FCS), Defense, Justice (Legal attaché, Drug Enforcement Administration-DEA, U.S. Marshals), Homeland Security (formerly Immigration and Naturalization Service-INS and U.S. Customs Service), Treasury (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms-ATF, Internal Revenue Service-IRS/CID, U.S. Secret Service-USSS, Office of Foreign Assets Control-OFAC), Agency for International Development-AID, Environmental Protection Agency-EPA, and the American Battle Monuments Commission-ABMC.

Most offices are in the Chancery -- an eight-story, earthquake-proof building with a marble facade and inner courtyard completed in 1964. It is located at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. Agencies located in Mexico City that have offices outside the Chancery include Public Diplomacy (the Benjamin Franklin Library), Commerce (the U.S. Trade Center), and Agriculture (APHIS, ATO). USDA has program offices in many parts of the country. Several USDA offices within the Embassy consular district are located outside Mexico City. APHIS has personnel in Tuxtla Gutierrez, the capital of the state of Chiapas, in southern Mexico near the Guatemala border. APHIS also has personnel in Tapachula, Chiapas, the southernmost city in Mexico, at the border with Guatemala.

To call the Embassy from the United States, dial 011-52-55-5080-2000 (24-hour service); 52 is the international country code for Mexico; 55 is the city access code for long-distance calls to Mexico City from international and domestic locations.

Arrival at Post Newly assigned employees arriving by commercial transport are met if they inform the Embassy in advance. If not met, arriving air travelers should take a licensed airport taxi to the Chancery or their hotels. Licensed airport taxis are yellow and white and are assigned to the taxi stand ("Sitio") at the airport. Payment is made in advance at a special teller window just outside the customs inspection area. If arriving by car from the U.S., request instructions from the Embassy for the two-day drive from the Texas border. Employees who arrive after office hours may contact the Embassy general duty officer through the Embassy telephone operator for assistance, if necessary.

Housing Last Updated: 7/28/2003 1:19 PM

To assist in housing and schooling, provide the General Services Office (GSO), Human Resources (HR), and the Community Liaison Officer (CLO) by letter, FAX, telegram, or E-mail with the following information :

(1) Employee's name, mailing address, and estimated arrival date/time (if by airline, include flight number, arrival date/time, if available).

(2) Official dependents who will be at post more than 50% of the year and estimated arrival date/time: a. spouse; b. children, by date of birth (DOB), entering school grade, sex; c. any other official dependents.

(3) Type of accommodation desired and related concerns such as: health concerns, handicaps, elderly family members, pets, and choice of suburb or close-in location.

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 7/15/2003 9:43 AM

Post strives to assign incoming personnel to their permanent quarters for immediate occupancy upon arrival at post. Occasionally, incoming personnel could be housed in hotels or leased furnished temporary apartments until permanent living quarters are ready for occupancy.

Housing

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 7/18/2003 5:08 PM

The post Interagency Housing Board (IAHB) assigns housing at post according to the Interagency Housing Policy and Standards established by Congress through Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO), Department of State. The housing assignment is based on the rank of the position to be occupied at post and official family members permanently resident at post (more than 50% of the year). Employee preferences will be considered and honored if possible when housing assignments are made.

An official family member for housing allowance purposes is defined as: (1) a spouse, (2) a child who is unmarried and under 21 years of age, and (3) relatives (including step and legally adoptive parents) of the employee or spouse, when such relatives are at least 51% dependent on the employee for support.

The U.S. Government owns several residences designated for senior officers of Counselor of Embassy rank and above, including the Defense Attaché. Between 1996 and 1998, the U.S. Government purchased approximately 100 residences. Leased quarters augment those that are Government-owned to form a housing pool. The IAHB assigns housing to employees of the civilian agencies, i.e., Agriculture, Commerce, Justice, State, Treasury, Agency for International Development (AID), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The IAHB approves private leases under living quarters allowance (LQA) for DOD uniformed personnel. All housing (both U.S. Government-owned, U. S. Government-leased and private) must be within space allowances established by OBO.

As the Mission does not have space to store household effects (HHE), do not ship HHE that cannot be accommodated in your quarters, as most quarters have little or no storage space. Employees have one year from date of arrival to send a supplementary shipment of HHE within the employee's overall shipping allowance (from storage or newly purchased effects), should quarters permit.

Any special housing needs should be made known to the Real Property/Housing officer as soon as possible. Apartments and townhouses in a variety of styles are available. Due to rising crime, apartments with 24-hour security are increasingly being used for Embassy housing. Most Embassy personnel reside in the west and southwest of the city. Commute time from residences to the Embassy is between 10 to 30 minutes.

Polanco, located two to four miles from the Chancery, is a flat area with both residential and commercial buildings. It has shopping centers and restaurants, small parks, and is adjacent to the original section of Chapultepec Park. Residential properties are a mix of apartments, townhouses, and a few detached houses. Commuting to the Chancery takes about 15 minutes.

Three to seven miles from the Chancery, Lomas de Chapultepec (also known simply as Lomas) is a hilly area of older, detached houses and a few shopping centers. It includes parks, has somewhat less traffic, and the commute is about 20 minutes. It is adjacent to the newer sections of Chapultepec Park.

Some Embassy families are housed in the farther out areas of Techamachalco, six miles from the Chancery, and La Herradura, which is beyond Techamachalco.

New apartment buildings and townhouses in two areas of the southwest portion of the city have been added to the housing pool. Bosques de Las Lomas and Santa Fe are approximately 20-35 minutes from the Chancery. They consist of small canyons and ridges with both residential and commercial areas. The air quality is better and seismic danger less. Santa Fe has the largest mall in Central and South America with many fine restaurants and private security patrols. Many families with children are housed in these areas.

Apartments and townhouses are comparable to the U.S., except that they usually have a servant's room and bath, and sometimes a breakfast room in addition to the dining room or combined dining/living room. Storage space may be limited as few quarters have attics or basements; so one room is often used for storage. Official residences frequently have a living room; dining room, breakfast room, guest bathroom, entry hall, sometimes a family room, one or more servants' rooms with a bathroom, garage, or carport. Yards range in size from similar to the U.S. to almost nonexistent.

Housing

Furnishings Last Updated: 7/15/2003 9:53 AM

Furnished Department of State housing includes the following: apartments designated for all first tour and some second-tour employees (including first tour junior officers, secretaries, and communications officers with no more than one dependent); and houses designated for senior officers of Minister Counselor rank or above. Furnishings usually consist of living, dining, and bedroom furniture, kitchen appliances, bookcases, lamps, and window coverings With the exception of official residences of the Ambassador and DCM, furnished quarters will not include porch furniture, ladders or stepstools, lawnmowers, fireplace sets, portable appliances, or freezers.

Musset. One Government-owned property in Polanco has 40 furnished units. These one and two bedroom apartments usually house first tour junior officer staff, or singles and couples without children.

Department of State personnel who are assigned unfurnished quarters will receive large appliances (stove, refrigerator, washer, and dryer); dishwashers are also provided in most government-owned properties. All quarters are provided with smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors when necessary, and fire extinguishers; further, post supplies air cleaners for each occupied bedroom and a limited number of space heaters, depending on the occupant's requirements. Employees of other agencies should check with their agencies regarding what is provided in furnished and unfurnished quarters.

An employee assigned unfurnished quarters should ship household furniture to post. Household furnishings used in the U.S. are suitable in Mexico. An employee may purchase furniture locally both in Mexican contemporary and Spanish colonial style, ready or custom made. An employee who ships basic furniture to post may wish to wait until after arrival to decide whether to buy additional items locally or order more from the United States.. Upholstered pieces (sofas, easy chairs, etc.) and wool rugs are also available. Quality and selection are adequate. The same is true for upholstery fabrics; upholstery work is reasonable and satisfactory. A variety of drapery material is available, and curtains can be made locally. Window sizes vary; so do not buy draperies in advance. Many new apartments include carpeting and curtains.

Household linens, kitchenware and fine china are available locally. Mexican pottery is attractive and inexpensive, but should not be used for cooking or eating unless it has been made with lead-free glazes, or fired or glazed at a high temperature. Bring wool and/or electric blankets as housing does not contain heating systems and the winter months may be very cool. Thick wool Indian blankets in a variety of colors are available locally. Housing may not necessarily include adequate light fixtures but they are inexpensive on the local market.

In addition to a welcome kit of basic kitchen items, State Department employees moving into unfurnished quarters may borrow (if available) some basic furniture items from the Embassy until their HHE arrives. Employees of other agencies should check with their respective administrative offices for such loans. Basic furniture will consist of one bed and one chair for each family member, a small table, and additional items that may be available.

Housing

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 7/18/2003 5:12 PM

Electricity is the same as in the U.S.: 110 volt, 60 hertz, alternating current. Mexico uses the same two-prong outlets as in the U.S., but most residences have been upgraded with standard three-prong, polarized, and grounded outlets that are more common in the U.S. Electrical blackouts of several hours are not unusual during the rainy season. Voltage fluctuations are very common; so surge suppressers, voltage regulators, and uninterruptible power supplies for electronic equipment are useful to protect your appliances. In local housing, kitchen and bathroom outlets are rarely found with the ground fault circuit interrupters that are required by most U.S. electrical codes. However, most of the housing pool has been upgraded to include this feature.

Buildings use liquid propane (LP) gas for hot water and cooking. LP gas is delivered by truck. For delivery to a home, it is necessary for a representative of the employee to be at home to admit gas delivery personnel. In most apartment buildings, apartment building staff arrange to receive gas. Government quarters have gas stoves, clothes dryers and water heaters. Few Mexican ovens have thermostats; so take an oven thermometer. All gas appliances should have automatic safety pilots.

Central heating is rare and the only provisions for heat in many homes are a fireplace and one-room gas or electric heaters. Electric heaters are useful for the morning or evening chill. Lower wattage or oil-filled electric heaters are preferable. High wattage may overload electric circuits. If you have space heaters, you may wish to bring them. You can purchase portable gas or kerosene heaters locally; however, they can be dangerous without proper ventilation. Department of State personnel are provided a limited number of space heaters, depending upon the occupant's needs and the availability of heaters.

Houses have showers and sometimes bathtubs, but apartments may have only showers. Water pressure varies and is often low; so many residences have reserve storage tanks to occasionally supply water when the city water is off for several hours or days.

Mexico City's seasonal high temperatures are moderated by the altitude. Nevertheless, electric fans are useful when the temperature reaches into uncommon highs which has occurred in the past few years. Few houses and apartments have air-conditioning or even electrical service capable of supporting air conditioning.

Although the Mexican telephone company, TelMex, is engaged in a major program to expand the number of telephone lines, obtaining a telephone line is difficult and may involve a wait of many months. Therefore, the Embassy does not lease a residence or apartment unless it has an operating telephone line. TelMex supplies pulse button or dial-telephone instruments; employees may use their own, if equipped for pulse dialing. Wall outlets and wiring blocks (modular jacks) for U.S.-type telephones are available in supermarkets, department stores, or hardware and electronics stores.

Food Last Updated: 7/15/2003 10:02 AM

A variety of groceries, including fresh fruits and vegetables, packaged foods (both domestic and imported), dairy products, and meats is available. Supermarkets stock fresh and frozen meat and fish, dairy products, fresh produce, and canned and packaged goods. Major U.S. food packagers produce such goods in Mexico as cereals, bakery products, and beverages -- but sometimes with a slightly different taste than what you may be accustomed to. Widely available fresh fruits include pineapple, papaya, watermelon, avocado and cantaloupe year round. Several large markets have both typical and unusual Mexican and tropical fruits and vegetables. Many specialty shops sell ethnic foods -- including Middle-Eastern -- locally produced fresh kosher meats, and imported frozen foods. Most food items are available at reasonable prices, but imported items are only available at prices higher than in the United States. Most of the larger supermarkets feature sections devoted to imported goods. Smaller shops specializing in U.S. products are located in Lomas, Polanco, Bosques, and a few other areas. All necessities and many other items are available. Superama, a large grocery chain owned by Walmart, resembles an American grocery store both in appearance and in items stocked.

Locally produced mixes and canned foods are of varying quality and very limited variety. Prepared frozen and packaged meals are imported and expensive. A large variety of Mexican cheeses are available. Many of the available cheeses are similar to common European and American types. Strained baby foods are expensive and of low quality. Mexican beer is good and very reasonably priced. Bottled soft drinks (including diet sodas or "lite" as they are known locally) are available at modest prices.

The Embassy U.S. Employees Association (EUSEA) commissary periodically stocks selected U.S. groceries (dry, canned, packaged and frozen foods), baby foods, pet foods, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, health and beauty aids, over-the-counter medications, and a limited supply of kitchen and household cleaning supplies. All U.S. employees, including PCS and temporary duty employees, may join EUSEA and obtain access to the Commissary. Employees may special order items, by the case, not regularly stocked through the commissary.

The Embassy cafeteria serves breakfast, snacks, and lunch on workdays. In addition, numerous excellent restaurants are within close walking distance of the Embassy. Many American favorites, including Starbucks, Pizza Hut, Papa John's, KFC, Domino's, Subway, Burger King, Tony Roma's, Dunkin Donuts, Baskin Robbins, Outback Steak House, Chili's, TGIF, and McDonald's, among others, all are conveniently located around the city.

Clothing Last Updated: 7/17/2003 4:49 PM

Clothing needs in Mexico City do not vary a great deal throughout the year. Warm clothing is useful for cold spells in the winter (November to February) and rainy season (June to September). Temperatures normally vary from 40 degrees F to 70 degrees F. It is suggested that you bring a few sweaters, a raincoat, and an umbrella and plan to dress in layers. Lightweight summer clothes are essential for travel to low-altitude areas where the climate is hot and humid, but are only needed in Mexico City from March through June when temperatures may reach up to 90 degrees F. Shorts are rarely worn. Remember that Mexico is approximately 7,300 feet above sea level; so mornings and evenings can be cool and even though it may reach into the 90's in the sun, it can still be on the cool side in the shade.

Clothing of all kinds is available at prices comparable to the U.S., but the quality varies. Mexico City has large shopping malls, several different department store chains, and a large variety of small boutiques. Sears, Liverpool, and Palacio de Hierro are among the larger department stores. A wide variety of locally made and imported clothing is available.

Bring U.S. swimsuits and underwear for children and adults. Some Mexican made clothing, particularly stockings and pantyhose, often do not fit tall women (approximately 5'6" and taller). Mexican shoes are stylish and well made; however, shoes generally do not go beyond American size eight for women and size ten for men. . Narrow shoe sizes are very scarce. Children's shoes and name-brand tennis shoes are expensive.

Clothing

Men Last Updated: 7/17/2003 4:48 PM

In Mexico City, men wear light-to-medium weight business suits. The darker colors (black, brown, charcoal gray) are the most popular. Lightweight suits are comfortable in the spring and for traveling to low altitudes. Mexican shoes are stylish and well made, but do not go beyond American 10 for men. Narrow shoe sizes are very scarce. Bring oorder from the U.S. any sportswear, shirts, shoes, pajamas, underwear, and socks that you will need. These items are sold locally; but the quality and variety may not appeal to American tastes. It is suggested that you take along a supply of buttons (for suits) and thread. Buttons very frequently 'pop-off ' at the most inconvenient time and thread sold locally may not be of very good quality.

Good tailors are available; their prices vary. Hats or shorts are rarely worn in Mexico City, except for sports activities. Black tie is never required for Mexican Government functions; a dark suit is appropriate. However, Mexican and American business representatives and diplomats sometimes specify "black tie" for dinner parties. Many men in the community have elected to have a tuxedo tailor-made while in Mexico; renting one costs about half as much as to have one made.

Clothing

Women Last Updated: 7/17/2003 5:15 PM

Bring wool or cotton suits and dresses with jackets. Mexico City temperatures can change rapidly during the day, particularly during the rainy season. Long-sleeved blouses, sweaters, jackets, and layered clothing are very useful; homes and offices are rarely heated.

The dress for receptions, cocktail parties, dinners, and similar events varies according to rank and representational activity. Most Mexican women wear current U.S. fashions for both afternoon and evening social events. Shorts are not worn except for recreation, or at resorts. Locally made dresses are available in a variety of styles, including both current fashions and Mexican ethnic. Imported clothing from the U.S. and Europe is available. Good Mexican textiles are available; but some are not pre-shrunk, colorfast, or drip-dry.

If you sew, it is suggested that you bring or mail order your favorite materials for sewing and or tailoring. Patterns sold locally cost twice as much as those in the U.S. The selection of such sewing accessories as thread is limited and the quality is often poor.

Well-crafted silver, brass, and copper jewelry is less expensive than in the U.S. Native semi-precious stones—such as turquoise, opals, and topaz in silver or gold mountings—are also available.

Clothing

Children Last Updated: 7/17/2003 4:51 PM

Children's clothes are available in great variety. Price and quality vary, depending upon the store. Some parents bring children's clothes from the U.S. or order online. Dress for all ages is similar to that in the United States, teenagers in Mexico as in the U.S. seem fashion conscious. Some schools require uniforms; check the section on schools or ask the CLO. European-style baby clothing is readily available, but American style clothing is not so common. Disposable diapers like Pampers and Huggies are available on the local economy. Children's shoes and sneakers are available, but can be expensive and of varying quality.

Supplies and Services

Supplies Last Updated: 7/18/2003 5:27 PM

A variety of both domestic and imported supplies and services are available on the local economy. Many U.S. brands of health or beauty aids are manufactured and sold locally. Most medications can be bought at local drugstores without a prescription and may cost less than in the U.S. You should always check with the Health Unit before purchasing medication; the dosage and strength may not be the same. Several hard-to-find items are available at the Embassy commissary or can be specially ordered.

Film and developing are readily available, including 45-minute processing. Prices, quality, and service compare favorably with the U.S. Quality engraving and printing can be done locally. The Embassy commissary carries a limited selection of English-language greeting cards that are otherwise almost impossible to find on the economy. Gift wrapping is most often done at the place of purchase or at the local paper store. Costco, Sears, Office Depot, Wal-Mart and Sam's Club have large stores in almost every neighborhood.

Supplies and Services

Basic Services Last Updated: 7/18/2003 5:23 PM

Dry-cleaners and commercial laundries are competitive in price to those in the U.S. Pick-up and delivery from your residence is also available. Beauty shops and barbershops are numerous and compare favorably with those in the U.S. in price and service. Reasonably priced shoe repair is available. Audio, video, and personal computer equipment repair services are satisfactory; however, some parts are scarce and the work can be expensive. Service and repair on U.S. cars are good. Dealer service is available for nearly every make and model car. It is suggested that you contact your local dealer in the U.S. to verify all warranty information. Should an auto part be unavailable in Mexico, the quickest delivery is usually from dealers in San Antonio, Brownsville, or Laredo, Texas, via the Embassy warehouse address. Employees may use the Embassy warehouse street address in Brownsville, Texas, to receive UPS shipments, which are consolidated and forwarded to the Embassy. There may be a charge for shipping fragile items. Many stores and markets are located close to such tourist centers as the Zona Rosa (Pink Zone), Polanco (a very popular neighborhood), and the Zocalo (Historic Center). The real bargains are in handcrafted silver, gold, copper, tin, onyx, leather, textiles, pottery, blown-glass, and paintings. Stores usually open for business at 10 am or 11 am, and remain open until 7 pm or 8 pm; however, the times may vary according to the owner's discretion. Many specialized stores open only half-days on Saturday and most stores close on Sunday, except for those stores located in the malls. Several stores around Mexico City offer discounts for Embassy employees.

Supplies and Services

Domestic Help Last Updated: 7/18/2003 5:24 PM

Before hiring domestic staff, obtain a copy of the Mission's administrative procedure on the subject. Consult the CLO or the Human Resources Office regarding Mexican Federal Labor Law (FLL) and the Law of the IMSS (Mexican Social Security) as applicable to domestic help. Many U.S. employees have such domestic help as maids, gardeners or chauffeurs; however, few speak English. Truly skilled cooks are hard to find. Almost all domestic employees hired locally are Mexican. An employee who wishes to bring domestic staff to Mexico from another country should consult with the Embassy Human Resources Office. The Government of Mexico is strict about visas and work permits for foreign domestics because of the large number of Mexicans available. Consequently, few employees bring servants from another country.

Although many domestics live in, they can also be hired on a part-time "live-out" basis for laundry and cleaning purposes. Reliable live-in help has been increasingly hard to find in recent years, but families with small children find it helpful to have a live-in domestic to look after children, since good babysitters are very scarce and full-time day care is also scarce. Most homes and many apartments have separate servants quarters.

The cost of a domestic employee's salary, Christmas bonus, meals, uniform, severance pay, and Social Security has increased in recent years; however, it is still significantly less expensive than in the United States. An employer is liable for three months of severance pay once an employee has completed 30 days of employment. It increases at the rate of 20 days a year. Live-in domestic employees are entitled to one day off a week, Mexican holidays, and six to twelve paid vacation days a year. Employers have the option of enrolling servants in the IMSS health program or paying their work-related medical expenses directly.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 7/15/2003 10:26 AM

Mexico City's large English-speaking community is served by several English language religious institutions, including but not limited to Catholic, Baptist, Christian Science, Church of Christ, Greek Orthodox, Jewish (Conservative), Latter-day Saints, Lutheran, Methodist, Quaker, Seventh-day Adventist, Union Evangelical, Interdenominational, and Unitarian.. The CLO maintains a list of religious services offered in English.

Education

Dependent Education Last Updated: 8/18/2003 9:33 AM

Nearly all Embassy dependent children in Mexico attend private schools, most of which have bilingual programs. The caliber of education is generally good, but acceptance standards vary. Several schools require admissions examinations. Special Spanish classes are offered for non- Spanish speakers. A few schools have limited programs for special needs and gifted and talented students. No Embassy families currently home-school their children. A few Embassy families choose to have their children attend school in the U.S. Updated information regarding boarding schools is available from the Office of Overseas Schools (A/OS) and the Family Liaison Office (M/FLO), both of which are in the Department of State, Washington, D.C. Employees may also direct questions to the CLO coordinator at post.

A large number of Embassy children attend the American School Foundation (ASF), which is accredited by the U.S. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), while a smaller number attend Greengates (a British day school), Lomas Altas, and Westhill Institute. ASF, Greengates, and Westhill Institute offer education from pre-school through high school. The schools typically provide bus service for regularly scheduled classes and a later run for after-school activities. Lomas Altas, Sierra Nevada, and Eaton offer programs from pre-school through sixth grade; these schools are located in the Lomas de Chapultepec neighborhood, where many Embassy families live.

The American School Foundation (ASF). (Address: Bondojito 215, Colonia Las Americas, Delegacion Alvaro Obregon, 01120 Mexico, Distrito Federal, Mexico. The. international mail address is the same as the Embassy. Telephone: 52-55-5227-4915). As a bicultural and bilingual school, its program is necessarily different from U.S. schools. It offers accredited co-educational programs in pre-primary, primary (first to fifth), middle school (sixth to eighth), and high school (ninth to twelfth) levels. The SACS in the U.S. accredits the ASF. The school also has Mexican accreditation by the Secretariat of Public Education (SEP) for all grade levels and the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Mexico City, for the high school program.

ASF receives some grant aid from the Office of Overseas Schools (A/OS); but it is not affiliated with the U.S. Embassy and Embassy children are not guaranteed acceptance. Under the terms of the U. S. Government's grant to the school, AFS must accept all dependent children who meet admission standards. Children coming from schools with other than an American curriculum and children with poor academic records may be required to take an admission exam.

AFS has about 2,500 students-approximately 67% of whom are Mexican, 22% American, and 11% other nationalities. Classes in primary school are conducted half-day in Spanish and half-day in English. However, children with little to no Spanish attend "Special Spanish" classes. In middle school and high school, all classes are taught in English with Spanish being taught as a second language.

The ASF campus includes indoor and outdoor play areas, tennis courts, and an indoor swimming pool. An intramural sports program includes American football, soccer, and basketball. The school year starts in mid-August and ends in late June. Two-week vacations occur both at Christmas and Easter. Uniforms are not required.

Summer activities include remedial and enrichment programs, in addition to a half-day Summer Camp Program. Extracurricular activities include drama, Model United Nations, a variety of sports, National Honor Society (NHS), and various clubs.

Greengates. (Address: Avenida Circunvalacion Poniente 102, Balcones de San Mateo, 53200 Naucalpan, Estado de Mexico, Mexico. Telephone: 52-55-5373-0088). A private, coeducational school based on the British system that offers kindergarten through high school. Applicants are tested for acceptance and placement. The school year is from mid-August through late June. Classes are taught in English. Spanish is required as a second language and French is offered beginning in grade six. The school requires elementary and middle school students to wear uniforms. An after-school activity program includes art, drama, music, chess, and photography. About 30 nationalities are represented. Summer programs include, arts, crafts, sports and remedial education. Expenses are within the education allowance.

Lomas Altas. (Address: Montanas Calizas 305, Lomas de Chapultepec, Mexico 11000 Districto Federal. Telephone: 52-55-5520-5375.) Lomas Altas is growing in popularity for younger children (up to the sixth grade). The school is a private, coeducational school for children from pre-school through sixth grade. There are regularly long waiting lists for spaces. Early registration is recommended. No uniform is required. The school year is from mid-August through to the end of June. The majority of children attending the school are Mexican. Beginning in the first grade, half the day's curriculum is conducted in Spanish and half in English. For younger children, the classes are all in English.

Westhill Institute. (Address: Montes Carpatos, No. 940, 11000 Mexico, Districto Federal. Telephone: 52-55-5292-4222.) Westhill is a private, coeducational school, founded in 1992. The school has three campuses: pre-school in Lomas de Chapultepec; K-6 also in Lomas de Chapultepec, and a new, state-of-the-art campus in Santa Fe for K-12 and University. The Santa Fe campus is very convenient to most of the Embassy's family housing units. Uniforms are required. The standard curriculum includes some class work in Spanish and French. Generally,Westhill is not considered as academically challenging as the other schools referenced.

In addition, numerous other schools-such as Montessori, French, German, and religious-are available. Most schools offer summer programs and bus service. With the exception of Greengates School, most schools must conform to the Government of Mexico requirements to teach Spanish at least half of every school day in elementary grades and follow the approved curriculum.

Nursery school. Many nursery schools and kindergartens are available for half-day programs. EUSEA (Embassy of the US Employee Association) offers a pre-school and day care program for ages 2-10 on the Embassy campus, Little Amigos. Hours are convenient for embassy employees and the price is very competitive.

Education

Special Needs Education Last Updated: 7/17/2003 5:02 PM

The American School Foundation and Westhill Institute offer excellent special education services. Applicants must submit an Individual Education Plan as part of the admissions process. Both schools reserve the right to deny admission to special needs children whom they feel the school can not adequately serve. Lomas Altas and the British American School each maintain an education psychologist on staff, but neither offers a specific special needs program. Greengates has been responsive to special needs, but does not advertise an official special needs program. Gifted and talented programs are not commonly available.

Education

Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 7/15/2003 6:33 PM

UNAM (Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico) has a school for foreign students that offers programs in Latin American Studies and intensive Spanish. Most courses are in English, including those in Mexican history and culture. The university offers many degrees-including economics, dentistry, engineering, and the humanities. A wide range of courses and programs is offered at The Ibero-American University (Universidad IberoAmericana) and the University of the Americas, Mexico City (Universidad de Las Americas).

Alliant University, located near the Embassy, is part of the U.S. International University of San Diego, California. The Mexico City campus is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. It offers undergraduate degrees in business administration, general studies, and psychology as well as graduate programs in management and organizational development, psychology, international business administration, and business administration. All course work is in English. Endicott College/Mexico offers a US education of general core course work for one or two years at its Mexico City campus, located in Polanco. The BA/BS is completed at the Beverly, MA campus. Internships are a pre-requisite for graduation, so that students have practice in their chosen field of study. Endicott is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Information regarding correspondence study is available in a leaflet, "The External Degree," available through The Family Liaison Office (M/FLO)., Department of State, Room 1216A, Washington, D.C. 20520-7310. The leaflet includes a list of external degree programs offering associate, bachelor, and masters degrees. It also includes an explanation of different ways of earning credit. Embassy employees and family members may use services of the educational counselor at the PD Benjamin Franklin Library in Mexico City, located near the Embassy.

Recreation and Social Life

Sports Last Updated: 7/18/2003 5:36 PM

EUSEA (Embassy of the US Employees Association) has a relatively small, but well-equipped exercise facility on the Embassy grounds (available for a fee). The American School Foundation (ASF) campus includes lighted tennis courts, an indoor swimming pool, a baseball field and an excellent gym for a nominal membership fee. A swimming pool at the YMCA is available for a small charge. Sport City, which has several sites in Mexico City, offers an Embassy membership rate which waives the initiation fee. Gold's Gym, located in Mexico City, offers various types of equipment and personal trainers for variable membership dues. The Maria Isabel Sheraton Hotel (located across the street from the Embassy) has several athletic club facilities, including exercise classes. Aerobic and yoga classes are offered at the Embassy. The Camino Real Hotel rents tennis courts by the hour. Tai-Chi, karate, tai-kwon-do, yoga, pilates, hockey, and aerobics are offered in all of the embassy neighborhoods. Aquatica Nelson Vargas offers swim classes and swim teams in Interlomas.

Runners must take time to adapt to Mexico City's higher altitude. Heavy traffic and air pollution dampen some runners' enthusiasm, but Chapultepec Park and other locations provide pleasant surroundings for running. Runners must remember that crime is relatively high in Mexico City; so you must be cautious of where and when you choose to run.

As in most Latin countries, soccer is a favorite spectator sport. Other sports include horse racing, jai alai, American football, baseball, softball, basketball, and polo. Bullfights are held almost every Sunday. Horseback riding is popular among Mexicans, yet, few riding clubs are available in Mexico City and its environs. You may rent horses to ride "Mexican saddle" in the countryside around Mexico City.

The Government of Mexico requires special permits to possess firearms or to use them for hunting. Any questions on firearms should be addressed to the Regional Security Office.

Freshwater fishing for trout and bass is good. Some of the world's best deep-sea fishing and beaches are at such Pacific coast resorts, as Acapulco and Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo (Guerrero), Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco), Puerto Escondido and Huatulco (Oaxaca) near the Gulf of Tehuantepec, Mazatlan (Sinaloa), and Los Cabos (at the southern tip of the 1,000-mile-long Baja California Peninsula).

The Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortes) resorts include Guaymas (Sonora). The Gulf of Mexico resorts include Veracruz and Tampico (Veracruz). Caribbean resorts include Cancun and Cozumel (Quintana Roo).

Mountain climbing is popular at the nearby volcanoes of