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

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

It is a very bustling, sometimes crazy but also very lovely and charming place. Paradoxically, it appears greener as most cities in Germny. And considering the size of the city..:)
I can definitively recommend living here, but it might be a bit frightening and chaotic in the beginning.

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

As it is a tremendous metropolis with various universities, one cannot give a general statement..The students I know have been very into partying and dancing. There are a lot of activities for foreign students. As, especially Europeans, are highly popular here, there are NO obstacles to get in contact with local people who are always very interested and helpful.

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

It depends on your lifestyle and especially the Colonia you live in..In comparison to the rest of the countdy housing and food are very expensive, whereas public transport is ridicilously cheap.

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

The better the colonia, the more dificult it is..it does also depend on your budget, as housing prices have been rising dramatically during the last few years. I can recommend the websites compartodepa.com and dadaroom.com .

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

MEXICN FOOD! Please do not mix it up with the Tex-Mex things we know in Europe!!!!
It does have much more flavour and yeah fat as well...but putting crema and limón in everything you eat is just heaven!
My favourite dish is pozole, a spicy soup with lettuce, chicken, beans and tostadas.

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

Colonia Condesa/Roma/Polanco
Torre Latinoamericana
Bellas Artes
Xochimilco (!)
Teotihucán and Tepotzlan near Mexico DF

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

Yes, and very cheap..My favourite spots are the Flora Lounge in Condesa and the Tacos of Alvaro Obregon in La Roma Norte

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

It is very loud, happy and full of people. I prefer going to a bar than to an antro (club) as the drinks are cheaper there and there is always a possibility to dance. My favourite spots are La Pata Negra and Phoenix, both in Condesa and both with free entrance!

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

If you come in January, take some warm clothes, as it can get quite chilly during the night.
Take a kinds of teas with you - for a cold, your blatter, your lungs, or whatever, as you will not find anything like that here.
Sunblocker is very expensive here, take it with you.

Apart from that: get prepared to lose your heart in Mexico while being in DF or traveling..it is going to change your life!

P.s.: eat chilaquiles after a night of party, it is the best anti-hangover food ever!