Experience in Monterrey, Mexico by Fernanda

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

Living in monterrey is strange and fun, the weather changes drasticaly and without notice, the mountains are amazing and provide a feeling of constant awe and confort, the city is big and has areas for all personalities. There is a growing music scene involving metal, punk-rock, indie, electronic, synth-pop, trap/rap/hip-hop.

What is the student lifestyle like in Monterrey?

Many foreigners live in monterrey so you can always find someone to go drink a beer with, although on sundays after 6 p.m no beer is sold legally. Most nightlife involves student held parties. Students usually get involved in clubs, rock climing, hiking, cave exploration is popular becuase of the famouse areas near the city (La Huasteca, Potrero Chico)

How much does it cost to live in Monterrey?

Living in monterrey can be more expensive than other parts of Mexico because of the high number of business men and women that live in the area. You can find high couture stores as well as great restaurants. Some neighborhoods are cheaper.

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

no it is not difficult to find acomodation. Posters in the streets near most universities inform students of vacancies.

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

In Monterrey Carne Asada is the typical saturday get together, people take out the grill, drink Carta Blanca and cheer for their favorite soccer teams. Other typical mexican foods such as enchiladas, tacos, flautas, sopes and frijoles can be found in all the city.

What places would you recommend visiting in Monterrey?

La Huasteca
Potero Chico
Barrio Antiguo
Macro Plaza
Marco + Museums of the area.
Tampiquito
Fundidora

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

Yes, many restaurants can be found in the San Pedro and central area, most restaurants are great and have great service.

Yamato
Pase Usted Café
X Box Café
Aka be
Tierra Libre
13 Lunas

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

Nightlife is just recently resurrecting in Monterrey, after the insecurity that struck the city in 2010 most nightclubs closed due to Narco intervention. Centrito in San Pedro area is where most nightclubs can be found although bars and nightclubs are re-opening in Barrio Antiguo Area. Restaurants and Bars are open all through San Pedro area and have really nice and fancy feel to them.

What advice would you give future students heading to Monterrey?

Public transportation is not very efficient in the city, although it can take you places it doesn't take you everywhere so be sure you take that into consideration when choosing where to live.