If you’ve been reading any of my columns, I hope I’ve provided you with some laughter about trying to get acclimated to Mexico. Hence, the title of my column…most times I find myself guessing. Sometimes I nail it; other times I fail miserably, but I’m a work in process.
I have three examples for you. First, I thought it would suit me well to learn Spanish. That seemed appropriate and a necessity. I took some private lessons and was doing okay until I tried to have an actual conversation. It seems if you start speaking Spanish to the locals, they answer in rapid-fire Spanish. Despacio, despacio became my most used word. My most-used phone app is a translator! I have to say the more I use Spanish, the easier it is becoming, but I’m FAR from getting there!
Example #2 – the money thing. I’m not sure I’ll ever get this! When we first moved here, the exchange rate was quite a bit higher than it is now. If I recall correctly, it was 18.75 or higher. I am no math wizard; in fact, numbers confuse me on a regular basis. Prior to the bank account fiasco I described in an earlier column, I got a Wise card. I could transfer American money onto the card and convert it to pesos. Very handy. As the exchange rate changes, so does my confusion. I have a few favorite local restaurants, and one day I will pay a certain amount for a meal, and the next day or certainly the next week, the same exact meal will cost more in pesos. As I said, I’m a work in process. I do know this – it’s better to pay in pesos and to leave the tip in cash. Progress.
Example #3 – Gas. This one is easy – I DON’T GET IT! In the States, I have an app that will tell me the cheapest gas stations. Even if I had one for Rocky Point, I wouldn’t get it – price per liter, liters to gallons. Price per gallon. Oh heavens, who knows…here’s my Wise card!
As I said, I hope my column brings a laugh or two. Perhaps, as the saying goes, you’ve “been there, done that”. What’s the learning curve anyhow??
Temperatures are rising, and like a lot of others, I’m headed for cooler temperatures, but I still have A LOT of guessing to tell you about. So, for now, stay cool, and if you are leaving Rocky Point for a bit, drive safe.
¡Hasta Luego!
