Experience in México, D.F., Mexico by Diego

What is it like to live in México, D.F.? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It is very chaotic and busy, but there is always something going on, and you'll always find something to do. I would recommend it if you don't mind a bit of chaos in your life. The city is massive and each district is very different from the rest, so there are several sub-cities and sub-cultures within the city, so it's hard to say what all of Mexico City is like.

What is the student lifestyle like in México, D.F.?

Depends on the university you go to. But people are very friendly, it's very easy to make friends in Mexico and there is always a party to attend.

How much does it cost to live in México, D.F.?

Depends on how well you want to live, but between 20k and 40k a month, in Mexican pesos that is of course.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in México, D.F.? Is there any advice you can give?

I don't know this one, I never had to find accommodation on my own, but I guess it can be hard because universities there don't have dorms, usually.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is amazing!!! You have to go to other cities in Mexico to try the regional cuisines. However, to start I recommend "tacos al pastor", "carnitas" (order "maciza" at first, then decide what type of "carnitas you like), "barbacoa", "mole poblano" (there are a million, sort of speak, types of "moles", but "poblano" is the most famous one), "ceviche" (make sure it's super fresh, don't risk it), and "suadero".

What places would you recommend visiting in México, D.F.?

The historical city center and all the buildings and museums there, the Roma neighborhood, as well as the Condesa and Polanco, go to the "cineteca nacional", go to both of the Vasconcelos libraries (the one everyone goes and the one in the "ciudadela"), go to San Angel on a Saturday morning to enjoy "el bazar del Sábado", go to the "plaza Garibaldi" to enjoy the mariachis, go on a Friday night to "las luchas en la Arena México" (Mexican wrestling), and whatever the locals recommend.

Is it good to eat out in México, D.F.? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

It is great!!! Go to "los Panchos", "la taquería del huequito" (the original one), go to "el Cardenal" (they're all great), and ask the locals for recommendations for taco stands and restaurants.

Is the nightlife good in México, D.F.? Where is good to go?

It is really fun, but stay away from any really posh place. Go out in the Roma and Condesa neighborhoods, I recommend going to the Patrick Miller (beware the long queue).

What advice would you give future students heading to México, D.F.?

Make a lot of Mexican friends and go on trips to other places in Mexico!!! Oh and try to never be alone, preferably in large groups, this goes for boys and girls.