Cancun Guide for Expats: Everything you need to know

Cancun Guide for Expats

Cancun is a vibrant destination for expats and digital nomads looking to explore the exotic beauty of Mexico. From its pristine beaches and breathtakingly blue waters, to its cenotes, luscious flora and fauna, good weather and vibrant nightlife, Cancun provides something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just a place to relax and unwind, this Mexican paradise has it all.

Things to do in Cancun

Things to do in Cancun are endless, whether you’re looking for an adventure or a chance to relax and unwind. From its pristine beaches and stunningly blue waters, to the vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone.

One of the most popular activities is swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters around Isla Mujeres. Here you can glimpse a variety of beautiful sea creatures up close, as well as uncover various sunken ships and underwater caves that have become popular attractions. There are also several tour companies offering scuba diving trips with experienced instructors who will provide all the gear you need to explore this magical world beneath the surface.

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For those seeking some cultural experiences, Cancun has plenty to offer. Take a stroll down Avenida Kukulcán to admire the impressive architecture and ancient Mayan ruins dotting the area. Or take part in one of the many interactive workshops like tequila tasting or salsa dancing lessons – perfect for learning about local culture while having fun!

Take some time out from exploring Cancun’s wild side and visit one of its many shopping malls, where you’ll find everything from designer clothes and jewelry to traditional souvenirs like hand-woven garments and vibrant folk art pieces. And when it’s time to refuel and unwind after a long day of sightseeing, there’s no shortage of amazing restaurants serving up delicious Mexican cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds!

Cancun is also well known for its incredible nightlife scene that keeps locals and tourists alike entertained until daybreak. Enjoy live music at any number of bars in El Centro or make your way up to La Zona Hotelera where you’ll find luxurious nightclubs filled with pulsing beats until sunrise. With so much energy coursing through the air, it’s no surprise that Cancun has earned its reputation as one of Mexico’s top party destinations!

Moving around Cancun is easy with buses running every few minutes along most of the main streets. Taxis are also readily available and are often used by expats when heading out of town or onto Isla Mujeres – a popular excursion from Cancun with its beautiful white sand beaches and picturesque landscape. There are also car rental services available at various locations throughout the city if you’d rather explore independently.

The culinary scene in Cancun is one of its highlights especially for those who love seafood! From fresh ceviche served on the beach to tasty tacos from street vendors – some of which have been passed down over generations – foodies will be spoiled for choice! Besides authentic Mexican cuisine, there are plenty of international options available as well so don’t forget to check out some of the top-rated restaurants in town for an unforgettable dining experience.

Best Neighborhoods for Expats in Cancun

If you’re looking to settle in Cancun as an expat, there are plenty of great neighborhoods to choose from. The city is divided into two parts: El Centro and La Zona Hotelera. While both areas offer plenty of amenities and attractions, each have their own unique features that make them desirable for expats.

El Centro is the downtown area of Cancun, home to many hip restaurants and bars that provide a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s also the most affordable option for those on a budget, with one-bedroom apartments starting at around US$600 per month. Many expats opt for this area due to its close proximity to the beach as well as its central location within the city.

La Zona Hotelera is where most of the tourist activity takes place and it houses some of the city’s most luxurious resorts. This area provides more upmarket options with higher security but comes with a price tag – one-bedroom apartments can cost upwards of US$1,200 per month depending on their location relative to the beach. Despite this, it remains popular among expats who prefer comfort and convenience over affordability.

It’s important to note that certain areas are more well-suited to different lifestyles — if you’re a night owl who loves partying late until dawn then El Centro may be your best bet; if you prefer luxury living closer to the beach then look no further than La Zona Hotelera; while those after something in between should consider neighborhoods like Puerto Juarez or Puerto Morelos which offer a mix of both affordability and convenience.

No matter what kind of lifestyle you’re after, there’s sure to be a neighborhood in Cancun that will fit your needs perfectly! Explore all available options before settling down so you can find a place that will make your experience as an expat truly unforgettable.

Cost of Living in Cancun

Cost of living in Cancun is relatively affordable and the cost depends largely on the type of lifestyle you choose. The majority of expats who come to live in Cancun settle in La Zona Hotelera, where they can enjoy more luxurious accommodations and a higher level of security compared to some of the other neighborhoods. This area also offers access to some of the best beaches and tourist attractions, making it a popular choice among those who want to make the most out of their stay.

The cost for one-bedroom apartments in La Zona Hotelera can start from around US$1,200 per month depending on their location relative to the beach. On the other hand, El Centro is much more economical with one-bedroom apartments starting at about US$600 per month — perfect for those looking for more affordable accommodation options.

Aside from rent, you should also budget for basic necessities such as food and utilities. Food prices vary across different areas but it’s generally cheaper than what you would find in other parts of Mexico or The United States. Grocery stores like Wal Mart offer reasonably priced produce while local markets tend to be even cheaper — just remember that these are often closed after 7 PM. As for utilities, rates are fixed by an energy provider so you won’t have any surprises when it comes to your bill at the end of each month.

Overall, living expenses as an expat will depend greatly on your lifestyle and spending habits; however, many agree that Cancun is still relatively affordable compared to places like New York City or London! With careful budgeting and smart decision-making when it comes to choosing accommodation, you can make your money stretch further so that you can really make the most out of your time in this beautiful city.

Bottom Line

And last but not least, don’t forget about Puerto Vallarta when visiting Mexico – just two hours away by car or bus – puerto Vallarta boasts stunning sunsets over Banderas Bay and even more spectacular nightlife than Cancun’s! Enjoy exploring its cobblestone streets lined with art galleries and artisanal boutiques before unwinding on one of their gorgeous beaches where you can take part in kayaking tours or go snorkeling among sea turtles! Whatever your preference may be, Puerto Vallarta truly has something to offer everyone – making it an ideal destination for expats who want a unique Mexican experience they won’t soon forget!

Official language in Cancun is spanish but almost all workers in the tourism industry speak some english.