Social media posts are shedding light on a growing trend among foreigners reconsidering their decision to settle in Yucatán. Through platforms like Facebook, particularly the group “Chilangos en Yucatán,” users are expressing their difficulties adjusting to life in the state and seeking advice about relocating to other parts of Mexico such as Mexico City, Puebla, and Querétaro.
The posts reveal various reasons prompting this change of heart. Among them are cultural regionalisms, Yucatán’s overwhelming heat, and the state’s notoriously low salaries. Eduardo “L,” one such user, pointed out the exclusivity of social circles in Yucatán, making it tough for outsiders to integrate. “It takes years to adapt,” Eduardo lamented.
For Karina “C,” even marrying a Yucatecan has not shielded her from feeling like an outsider. Despite her familial ties, she shared that her mother-in-law continues to refer to her as “la gabacha,” a term denoting foreignness.
Economic concerns also play a pivotal role. Xóchitl “R” criticized the high cost of living in Mérida coupled with inadequate wages, which she described as “ridiculous.” Furthermore, the region’s blistering heat remains a formidable challenge, as newcomers report struggling to acclimate.
Critics of the state’s allure warn of misleading portrayals that emphasize Yucatán’s charm while downplaying its challenges. One commenter wrote, “Many do well here, but the opportunities aren’t the same for everyone.”
Additionally, complaints extend to infrastructure and environmental issues, including poorly maintained streets riddled with potholes, swarms of mosquitoes during the rainy season, and controversies surrounding real estate developments.
As these discussions continue to gain traction online, they paint a nuanced picture of Yucatán—a region celebrated for its rich culture yet grappling with complexities that affect its attractiveness to outsiders.
Source: Por Esto
