17 Jun 2024

Ciudad de México - My host, was more like a housemate than a landlord!

Tell us about your homestay experience.

Check out this view out of my bedroom window! The breakfasts were delicious, with ingredients I'd never tried before like cactus, and fruits that taste of chocolate pudding, all served with espresso. My room was spacious and beautifully decorated. There was a kitchen with espresso machine, and a communal living room with comfy couches, and a widescreen TV.

What did you do in Ciudad De México?

I went to celebrate the marriage of my friends. But while I was in town, I visited many other places. Teotihuacan Pyramids, the Mercado de Jamaica, the Lucha Libre (wrestling), and the Museum of Anthropology were the attractions that really stood out. But simply walking through the streets of the historic center was intense - so many people and so much going on!

Any tips or advice for other travellers?

A little bit of holiday Spanish goes a long way. I'm guessing I would need sunscreen any time of year. Make sure you plan how you'll get a mobile signal. (I used an eSIM.) If you use a map app, download the city before you set off. If you're travelling with Mexican friends, be nice to them! They will help so much with translation and advice. Better still, stay with a good host who is willing to help you out.

How was your experience with your host?

I didn't know what to expect when I arrived. I'm used to accomodation where I'm handed a key and left to it. My host was in contact long before I arrived, and was there when I got out of the cab from the airport. He showed me around the city, and we had many great conversations. He was more like a housemate than a landlord. Host is accurate.