The first thing people ask me when I tell them my dad lives in Mexico is not “What part?” or “Which state?” It’s always the same thing: “Why did he move there?” “Isn’t it dangerous?” “Is he a drug dealer?” Those people don’t realize how rude they sound or how wrong they are.
Mexico is a beautiful country with kind people, but it is stained by the infamous El Chapo, drug wars, the poor abuelas begging for money. Contrary to what most people in the United States believe, Mexico is safe. It's only some of the states on the borders that are unsafe. It’s just like United States. Some places in the U.S. are worse than others. There are mafias and drug dealers and underdeveloped neighborhoods just like Mexico. But Mexico and the U.S. both have beautiful cities and historic landmarks and wonderful people. Some Americans refuse to see this comparison, because they continuously only see the good in the U.S., overlooking the homeless man and the crack dealer on the corner. The U.S. has just as many flaws, but we aren’t as infamous for them.
Behold, the delicious Elote, corn with mayonnaise, chile powder, and lime juice. La Parroquia, the famous cathedral of San Miguel de Allende, sits in the middle of the city.
My dad moved to Mexico because life is simpler. Because people here care about family and health, and aren’t as big on the need for technology. Health care is cheaper and just as effective. Everyone says, "Buenos dias" and, "Hola" as you pass them on the street. Loved ones are greeted with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. The food is amazing and good beer is 10 pesos. What more do you need than friends, family, food, and a good Mexican beer? And I’m not talking about Dos Equis -- Victoria with lime, all the way. I firmly believe that Mexico is a better country than the United States because of these things.
Sun setting behind Cathedral de San Franciscoin San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
First of all, the people here are way less judgmental than in the United States. I have never once felt targeted because I’m a different ethnicity. I have never felt embarrassed here about who I am or where I’m from. Imagine how being Mexican and living in the United States feels. They are constantly being stereotyped and made fun of. Second of all, everyone in Mexico is bilingual, or knows at least a little English. How many Americans can say more than hello or beer in Spanish? Third, have you ever tried more delicious food than Mexican food? And I’m not talking about the sadness that is Taco Bell. I mean elote and street tacos and real, fresh churros. The food is better, the people are nicer, and it might just be more beautiful.
Looking down Calle Hospicio en San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
Mexico may have a more simplistic lifestyle, but it just might be better. I love the United States and being able to say that I am an American, but I’m proud to say Mexico is my second home. Think before you judge other countries. Sometimes all it takes is to enjoy a Victoria in a beautiful city to realize that the United States is too judgmental.