Experience in Monterrey, Mexico by Emilio

What is it like to live in Monterrey? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Monterrey is a northern city of Mexico, and it is the second or third largest city of Mexico. Living in Monterrey is very hot in summer, it is constantly about 36 celcius. In Monterrey you will generally need a car to move around the city, because public transport is really horrible; but do not worry, you can take taxis (the university shall tell you where you can take the safe ones) and your fellow mexican classmates will generally help you out with a ride.

I love Monterrey, because I have lived there all my life, but it is not a tourist city and it is not that nice as other cities in Mexico.

You will always see huge and beautiful mountains, people are friendly, there are good universities, you will probably have a good time!

What is the student lifestyle like in Monterrey?

It is really different from europe. Mexicans are very friendly, I assure you that in your first class you will have mexican friends.

Students, and mexicans in general, always like to party, starting, generally, on wednesday. Near the universities there are bars and some clubs, but the good clubs are in San Pedro.

There are generally student associations, you generally do not have to pay to be a member, and there are always activities in the University.

How much does it cost to live in Monterrey?

It depends where you live. If you live in San Pedro, it is going to be more expensive. If you live in Monterrey, like near the TEC, you can find a good room for 4,000 pesos, you will or can spend less than 400 pesos in food per week, and what you spend in parties is up to you.

If you have at least 10,000 pesos per month I believe you will be fine.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Monterrey? Is there any advice you can give?

I dont think so, universities also offer rooms. Check out the following websites for more options: dadaroom.com and compartodepa.com

Visit the room and the roommates, and live near the University. Ask a local if you will be living in a safe zone and go with someone.

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

Meat, Meat and meat. The noth of Mexico is well known of its meat and BBQ. You can also eat mexican dishes such as chilaquiles, enchiladas, etc.

Chilaquiles are my favorite dish.

What places would you recommend visiting in Monterrey?

Go to chipinque and matacanes (a nature walk), you can hike the cerro de la silla, go to a futbol match, visit Barrio Antiguo on sunday afternoon, and visit Santiago (a little town near by).

Is it good to eat out in Monterrey? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, very good and you can find many cheap places.

My favorite sport is football, everybody loves it over there.

Is the nightlife good in Monterrey? Where is good to go?

Yes, you have to go to San Pedro to be in a good and "safe" place, but always be careful and never get into a fight. There are many places in San Pedro where you can have fun, specially in a bloc known as Centrito.

Barrio Antiguo is starting to have night life again, and I heard that there are two good clubs.

What advice would you give future students heading to Monterrey?

If you are going to the Tec de Monterrey, I will definitively recommend it, specially if you are doing a science, engineer or business studies.