Hello friends,
As the calendar turns and fireworks echo across Mexico, there’s a familiar feeling in the air — reflection mixed with excitement. Whether you’re already living here or still imagining your next chapter, the end of the year invites us to pause, reset, and look ahead with intention.
Let’s start where Mexico always shines.
🌆 City Spotlight & Food of the Week
Querétaro + Buñuelos
Querétaro continues to attract expats for all the right reasons: walkable neighborhoods, excellent private hospitals, and a calm, high-quality lifestyle.
This time of year, the city fills with the smell of buñuelos — thin, crispy fried dough sprinkled with sugar or syrup. Traditionally enjoyed around New Year’s, they symbolize sweetness and good fortune for the year ahead.
🇲🇽 Spotlight on Mexico’s Icons
Celebration as a Way of Life
While the Grito de Independencia belongs to September, its spirit lives on through Mexico’s year-end celebrations. Families gather late into the night, music spills into the streets, and fireworks mark not just a new year — but gratitude, resilience, and hope.
It’s one of the reasons so many people fall in love with living here.
🌟 Need-to-Know Update
Holiday Closures & New-Year Timing
December 31 and January 1 are national holidays in Mexico. Banks, government offices, and many administrative services will be closed, with normal operations resuming January 2.
It’s also peak travel season. Expect fuller flights, booked-out hotels, and lively public spaces — especially in beach towns and colonial cities.
🏡 Mexico Living Tip
Start the Year with Fewer “What Ifs”
One of the biggest adjustments for expats is healthcare logistics. Mexico offers outstanding private care, but emergencies often require up-front payment if you’re uninsured.
Starting the year with a clear healthcare plan means:
- Faster access to private hospitals
- Less financial stress in urgent situations
- Peace of mind for you and your family
💰 Money Matters
Why January Is the Best Month to Review Your Costs
Living in Mexico often lowers day-to-day expenses — but healthcare, travel, and currency exchange can quietly add up.
January is a smart time to review:
- Insurance premiums vs. out-of-pocket care
- Monthly medical spending
- Long-term travel or residency plans
A small adjustment now can save you significantly over the year.
🩺 Health & Insurance Highlight
Why Expats Work with Brett LaMar
Our sponsor, Brett LaMar, specializes in health and life insurance for travelers, expats, and families living abroad. He helps clients:
- Compare international vs. Mexican plans
- Understand exclusions before they matter
- Choose coverage based on how long they’ll be abroad
If 2026 includes more travel — or a longer stay — this is the right moment to review your options.
👉 Get a personalized quote:
https://brettlamar.com/quote
👉 Learn more on Brett’s YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@BrettLaMar
⚖️ Legal & Residency Corner
Thinking About Residency in 2026?
January is the perfect planning window to:
- Review financial requirements
- Check document validity (passports, certificates)
- Align healthcare coverage with residency goals
Starting early prevents delays and last-minute stress.
📣 Call to Action
One Simple Step for a Confident 2026
If Mexico is part of your plans — whether short-term or long-term — take a moment to review your healthcare coverage now.
Prepared beats reactive. Every time.
🌮 Fun Foodie Fact
Rosca de Reyes Is Just Around the Corner
On January 6 (Día de Reyes), families across Mexico gather to share Rosca de Reyes — a sweet, ring-shaped bread decorated with candied fruit. Hidden inside is a small figurine, and whoever finds it traditionally hosts tamales on February 2 (Día de la Candelaria).
You’ll start seeing roscas in bakeries immediately after New Year’s Day.
You can always catch up on past editions of MexicoFlow here:
https://brettlamar.com/newsletter
Thank you for being part of the MexicoFlow community this year. We’re excited to explore 2026 with you.
Warm wishes for a healthy, happy New Year,
Brook
Sponsored by Brett LaMar Insurance