Gentrification in Mexico: A Guide to Responsible Travel 

Mexico’s stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage make it an irresistible destination for tourists, digital nomads, and expatriates.

However, as more and more foreigners settle in places like Mexico City, Oaxaca, Tulum, Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita, gentrification is reshaping local communities.

Gentrification in Mexico is a growing concern. It is a complex issue that occurs when wealthier individuals move into low-income communities, driving up property values, changing neighbourhoods and often commercializing traditional lifestyles.

Tourism and foreign investments bring both opportunities and challenges, and visitors have a role to play in minimizing harm. We can help minimize these impacts by making daily conscious choices.

This guide offers some practical tips for travelers, remote workers, and expatriates on how to explore Mexico mindfully.

I share things I continue to reflect on and actively try to practice (again and again) while traveling throughout Mexico. I hope these insights inspire you to approach travel with care and respect for the communities and lands we visit.

Let’s dive into the issue of gentrification, examine its impact, and get into tips to travel responsibly, together!  

What Gentrification in Mexico Looks Like

Gentrification in Mexico’s coastal regions is driven primarily by tourism, real estate speculation, and the influx of foreigners looking for a more affordable lifestyle.

Both Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita, located along the Pacific coast, are prime examples of how these forces change once-sleepy beach towns into bustling tourist hubs. 

Puerto Vallarta: From Fishing Village to Expat Haven

While tourism has provided jobs and boosted the local economy, it has also displaced many long-time residents who can no longer afford rising rents.

Traditional businesses, such as family-owned taco stands and mercados, are increasingly being replaced by high-end restaurants and trendy bars that cater to tourists.

Sayulita: A Surf Town Under Pressure

Rising rents and overcrowding make it difficult for residents to maintain their way of life, and basic infrastructure – such as water and waste management – has struggled to keep up with the town’s growing population.

Sayulita’s charm lies in its vibrant community and coastal vibe, but many locals worry that tourism has diluted the town’s cultural identity.

Gentrification in Mexico makes some residents feel excluded from the benefits of tourism, while others have been forced to relocate to more affordable areas outside the town center.

Consider Yourself a Guest in Mexico

One of the most important shifts we can make to reduce gentrification in Mexico is in our mindset as responsible travelers. Let’s think about ourselves as a guest in someone else’s home, rather than a tourist.

Mexico is not just a vacation destination – it’s a vibrant country with ancient and deep-rooted cultures, traditions, and communities that have existed for centuries!

Whether we’re visiting for a week or staying for several months, it’s essential to approach our time in Mexico with respect, humility, and gratitude.

By seeing ourself as a guest, we can avoid behaviours that may unintentionally harm locals or disrupt the rhythm of daily life. 

The Difference Between Being a Tourist and a Guest

Tourists often consume experiences without fully considering their impact on the places they visit.

On the other hand, guests are mindful of how their actions affect their hosts, the environment, and the community.

This difference lies in small but meaningful gestures – such as learning basic phrases in Spanish, respecting cultural traditions, and behaving thoughtfully in public spaces. 

For example:

• Tourist mindset: “I paid for this vacation, so I deserve convenience and comfort.” 
• Guest mindset: “I am fortunate to be here, and I want to make sure my presence benefits the people and place that are hosting me.” 

By adopting a guest mindset, we’ll become more aware of the ripple effects our actions have – whether that’s how you interact with a vendor at the market, the way we negotiate prices, or the energy you bring into a space. 

Being a Guest Means Resisting the Urge to Change Things

Part of being a respectful guest is understanding that you are stepping into a place that is already steeped with its own histories, cultures, and ways of life.

It’s important to resist the urge to “improve” or change things to suit our preferences or expectations or to solely profit.

Many communities, especially in places like Sayulita or Puerto Vallarta, are seeing an influx of foreign visitors who bring new trends, ideas, and businesses.

While these influences may seem harmless or even beneficial, they often lead to unintended consequences, such as shifting cultural values, the displacement of local traditions, and higher costs of living for residents (aka. Gentrification in Mexico).

Instead of expecting things to operate the way they do at our home, embrace the differences – whether that means adjusting to slower service at a restaurant, accepting that some locals don’t speak English, or respecting unfamiliar traditions with an openness to learn.

Remember, being a guest is about appreciating the uniqueness of the place you are visiting, not trying to mold it to fit our lifestyle or expectations.

If we approach travel with humility, we’ll find the most rewarding experiences come from immersing ourself in the local way of life and learning from it.

Practical Tips for Being a Respectful Guest in Mexico

1. Recognize Our Privilege

It’s important to acknowledge that many travelers from Canada, the United States, and Europe enjoy a level of privilege that gives them access to resources and experiences that locals may not have.

Be mindful of this when you’re negotiating prices or deciding where or how to spend your money. While bargaining is common in some places, driving a hard bargain for every purchase can be unfair – especially when the seller depends on that income for basic needs. 

• Instead of: “This seems too expensive—what’s the lowest price you can offer?” Try: “I really appreciate the craftsmanship. Is this the final price?” 

By practicing empathy and awareness, you can create more respectful interactions that benefit everyone!

2. Learn Basic Spanish

While many locals in popular destinations may speak English, taking the time to learn a few basic Spanish phrases shows respect and appreciation.

Even simple greetings like “Hola,” “Gracias,” or “¿Cómo estás?” can make a positive impression. When you make the effort to communicate in the local language, it fosters opportunities for relationships and makes them more meaningful.

Some key phrases to learn:

• ¿Dónde está…? (Where is…?) 
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much does it cost?) 
• Perdón / Disculpa (Excuse me) 
• Lo siento (I’m sorry) 
• ¿Puedo…? (Can I…?) 

3. Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Mexico’s rich cultural heritage means that certain practices and customs may differ from what we’re used to at home. In public spaces, take cues from locals!

For example, in some smaller towns or traditional spaces, modest clothing is appreciated. When visiting churches or sacred sites, ask if photography is allowed and be mindful of how you behave.

Or, if you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta during a local festival or holiday, such as Día de los Muertos, participate respectfully. Instead of treating it as a photo opportunity, learn the meaning behind the celebrations – understand that it’s a time for families to honour their loved ones first.

4. Be Conscious of Noise and Party Culture

Many travelers are drawn to Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita for their lively nightlife scenes. While it’s perfect to enjoy yourself, be mindful that locals also live and work in these areas.

Noise pollution – such as late-night parties, loud music, or unruly behaviour – can disrupt the community.

Consider whether your actions are respectful of the locals who are going about their daily lives.

Example: If you’re staying in a vacation rental, be aware that your neighbours may be families with school-aged children or elderly residents. Keeping noise levels down and following local quiet hours is a small but important way to show respect.

5. Ask for Permission Before Taking Photos

In many Indigenous and rural communities in Mexico, taking photos without permission is considered disrespectful.

Even in tourist-heavy areas like Sayulita, it’s polite to ask vendors or artisans before taking pictures of their work (sidenote: never copy or reproduce artwork as these traditions are centuries old and have cultural teachings and meanings!).

If you see a traditional ceremony or street performance, pause and ask whether it’s appropriate to take photos or videos. 

Polite ways to ask:

• ¿Puedo tomar una foto? (Can I take a photo?) 
• ¿Está bien si grabo un video? (Is it okay if I record a video?)

6. Give Back to the Communities You Visit

Traveling as a guest means looking for ways to give more than you take.

This can mean leaving positive impacts by supporting local businesses, participating in community initiatives (such as beach clean-ups), or donating to local organizations working to improve conditions for residents. It could also mean spending time volunteering or contributing to programs that support environmental conservation.

Example: If you enjoy surfing in Sayulita, look for surf schools that offer lessons while also engaging with environmental causes. Some surf schools collaborate with marine conservation organizations or organize events that give back to the community!

7. Leave No Trace: Minimize Our Environmental Impact

Tourism in coastal towns like Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita puts a strain on natural resources.

Part of being a respectful guest involves leaving Mexico’s beautiful lands just as we found them (or better!). Whether you’re relaxing on a beach in Puerto Vallarta or hiking through the jungles near Sayulita, practice the ‘Leave No Trace’ principles.

Some tips to reduce our environmental footprint:

• Use reef-safe sunscreen when swimming or snorkeling to protect marine life
• Stick to marked trails when hiking to prevent erosion and protect native plants 
• Properly dispose of waste: Use designated bins for trash and recycling
• Avoid single-use plastics: Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag
• Respect marine life: Avoid touching coral reefs or wildlife while swimming or snorkeling
• Choose eco-friendly tours: Book with companies committed to environmental conservation

Support the Locals: Tips to Spend Money Mindfully

1. Stay in Locally Owned Accommodations

How to choose responsible accommodations:

• Stay at Mexican-owned hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, or eco-lodges. These places reinvest profits into the local economy and often have a deeper connection to the community. 
• Avoid Airbnb properties in central neighbourhoods where locals are being displaced. Instead, look for guesthouses or family-run inns located just outside the tourist zones. 
• If you must use Airbnb, rent a room in someone’s home instead of booking an entire apartment. This ensures that locals can still live in their communities while benefiting from tourism income.

Examples of local stays:

• Puerto Vallarta: Stay at Hotelito Mio, an eco-boutique hotel just outside the city, known for its sustainable practices. 
• Sayulita: Choose Casa Love, a family-owned guesthouse with deep community ties and a commitment to sustainable tourism. 

2. Eat and Drink Local: Support Traditional Mexican Cuisine

Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita are filled with trendy restaurants and cafes catering to international tastes, but it’s important to also support traditional Mexican eateries and food vendors.

Local restaurants not only provide more authentic food experiences but also ensure that tourism dollars benefit the people who live and work in these communities.

How to eat mindfully:

• Visit local mercados (markets) and try regional specialties, such as ceviche, birria, and fresh seafood. 
• Avoid international chain restaurants and eat at family-run fondas, where meals are prepared with traditional recipes and ingredients. 
• Ask locals for food recommendations – they’re often proud to share the best spots in town for authentic food. 

Local food recommendations:

3. Shop Mindfully: Buy Directly from Local Artisans

Mexico is famous for its vibrant textiles, jewelry, and crafts. However, mass-produced souvenirs sold in tourist areas can exploit local traditions and underpay artisans.

Travelers can support ethical shopping practices by purchasing directly from artisans and cooperatives.

How to shop responsibly:

• Ask about the origin of the products you’re buying. Look for items that are handcrafted by local artisans rather than mass-produced. 
• Visit artisan markets and cooperatives where you can buy high-quality arts directly from the makers. 
• Avoid bargaining too aggressively. A fair price ensures that artisans are properly compensated for their artistry and labour!

Where to shop:

• Puerto Vallarta: Visit the Olas Altas Farmers Market or the Cuale Artisan Market for handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles. 
• Sayulita: Stop by Evoke the Spirit, a gallery that collaborates with local artisans to create high-quality, handcrafted goods.

4. Engage Respectfully with Locals and Ask Thoughtful Questions

Meaningful interactions with locals are one of the most rewarding aspects of travel. However, it’s important to approach these conversations with curiosity and respect.

Asking thoughtful questions shows that you care about the community and encourages locals to share their stories.

How to ask mindful questions: 

• Instead of: “Why is everything so expensive here?” Try: “How has tourism affected the cost of living for locals? What can visitors do to help?” 
• Instead of: “Why are there so many foreigners living here now?” Try: “What has changed in your community over the years, and what do you hope will stay the same?”

These small shifts in language can make a big difference, fostering more open and respectful conversations!

Traveling Mindfully in Mexico: Travel as a Guest, Leave as a Friend

The rise of gentrification in Mexico is a complex issue, but travelers can play a role in mitigating its impact. The more we commit to being conscious of our impact, the better chance communities have to retain their identity and thrive on their own terms.

Avoiding gentrification entirely is difficult. There’s no perfect formula for responsible travel, but what matters is staying mindful and making intentional choices.

It’s about doing your best to support locally owned businesses, respecting cultural spaces and traditions, and being aware of how your presence – whether short or long-term – might affect the people who live there.

The goal isn’t to get everything right all the time, but to keep thinking critically about how your actions influence the places you visit!

Small steps, like asking locals about the challenges they face or choosing to participate in community-led tours, can help ensure that your impact is thoughtful and positive.

Approaching your trip to Mexico as a guest rather than a consumer will not only enrich your experience but also deepen your connection to the people and places you meet.

By being respectful, open, and intentional, we can honour the hospitality and generosity of the communities that welcome us.

As the Mexican saying goes, “Mi casa es tu casa” – My home is your home” (and they really mean it!). And just like in any home, being a respectful guest ensures that doors will remain open for future travelers and for the Mexican people who call these places home!

✨Keep Exploring Mexico Magic✨

👉✨Traveling by Bus in Mexico: A Beginner’s Guide

👉✨Best Time to Travel to Oaxaca: A Guide to Seasons, Festivals, and Coastal Treasures