THE FIELD NOTES
Practical Spanish guides for the trip you’re planning and the everyday life you’re building.
How much should you tip in Mexico? See common amounts for restaurants, hotels, gas stations and grocery baggers, plus the Spanish phrases for paying, and what to do if a tip is added to your bill.
Read GuideIn Mexico, "ahorita" can mean right now, in a while, a moment ago or a polite "no." Here's how to tell which one you're hearing and what to answer.
Read GuideRenting in Mexico? Learn what depósito, aval, fianza and póliza jurídica mean, what landlords usually ask for, and the Spanish to ask about getting your deposit back.
Read GuideIn Mexico, "¿Mande?" is the polite way to say "Pardon?" or "Yes?" when someone calls you. Here's what it means, when to use it, and why it sounds better than "¿Qué?"
Read GuideJust moved to Mexico City? Here's the Spanish you'll need week by week: getting a SIM, water and gas delivery, trash day, the bank, the pharmacy and your neighbors.
Read GuideHeard "no tengo cambio" when paying in Mexico? Here's what it means, what the seller may ask next, and the exact Spanish to answer, ask for change or pay another way.
Read GuideWe used Rocket Spanish for 30 days to see how well it prepares you for real conversations in Mexico. Here's what helps, what it won't do, and who it's for.
Read GuideDropping off laundry in Mexico? Learn how to ask for washing, drying, and folding, confirm the price, explain special instructions, and arrange pickup.
Read GuideUnderstand Mexican rental listings with an explained example. Learn what “amueblado,” “mantenimiento incluido,” and “servicios aparte” tell you—and what to ask next
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