Best places to visit in Mexico - Winter Edition
Here’s a quick summary of top spots to visit during winter:
- Playa del Carmen: Beach lifestyle, coworking spaces, and affordable living ($500/month rent).
- Puerto Vallarta: Stunning scenery, LGBTQ+ friendly, and fast internet (up to 1,000 Mbps).
- Mexico City: Cultural hub with coworking spaces and strong internet (65 Mbps).
- Mérida: Colonial charm, budget-friendly living ($850/month total expenses).
- San Miguel de Allende: Artistic vibe, coworking options, and mild weather.
Quick Comparison:
| City | Avg Internet Speed | Avg Monthly Rent | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playa del Carmen | 11 Mbps+ | $500 | Beach lifestyle, coworking scene |
| Puerto Vallarta | 47 Mbps+ | $500 | Fiber-optic internet, scenic surroundings |
| Mexico City | 65 Mbps | $900-$1,300 | Cultural hub, strong connectivity |
| Mérida | 35 Mbps | $358 | Budget-friendly, colonial charm |
| San Miguel de Allende | – | – | Artistic vibe, mild spring-like climate |
These destinations combine reliable internet, affordable living, and vibrant communities, making them ideal for digital professionals seeking warmth and productivity during winter.
Amazing Remote Work Destinations in Mexico
1. Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen, located along Mexico's Caribbean coast, has become a popular destination for digital nomads, thanks to its warm weather and growing remote work community. With a population of about 150,000, the city offers a welcoming environment for professionals escaping colder climates and looking for an ideal work-life balance [4].
The city’s compact layout and reliable infrastructure make it easy to navigate and meet remote work needs. Internet speeds average 11 Mbps, though coworking spaces often provide faster connections. For example, Bunker Coworking (4.7 stars from 99 reviews [7]) offers flexible workspaces starting at $14 per day. Another option, Nest, provides monthly passes for $250 and boasts an active community [6]. When it comes to living arrangements, Playa del Carmen offers something for every budget:
| Area | Monthly Rent | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | $500–$1,000 | Close to shops and restaurants |
| Playacar | $1,200–$1,800 | Modern condos with pools and gyms |
| Coco Beach | $2,000+ | Luxury beachfront accommodations |
A typical monthly budget for digital nomads here is about $2,745, which covers rent, coworking memberships, groceries, and dining out [3].
For staying connected on the go, Telcel offers affordable SIM cards for $1.50, with data plans ranging from $2.50 to $15 [3]. Popular cafes like MiDogo Cafe and Choux Choux Cafe are favored by remote workers, offering WiFi speeds as high as 200 Mbps [8].
The best time to visit is during the winter months (November to April), when the weather is ideal for combining work with beachside relaxation. With a strong expat community, making connections is easy through Facebook and WhatsApp groups. The city’s 16% return visitor rate speaks to its charm and appeal [4]. Networking opportunities and leisure activities are plentiful, making it a well-rounded destination for professionals.
Getting around is simple, too. Bike rentals [5] are a great way to explore the city while enjoying the pleasant winter weather. For those arriving from Cancun International Airport, the ADO bus service provides a convenient and affordable option, costing less than $20 [3].
2. Puerto Vallarta
Tucked between the Sierra Madre mountains and the Bay of Banderas, Puerto Vallarta offers pleasant winter temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F [11]. This vibrant city has become a popular destination for remote workers, blending stunning scenery with modern conveniences.
For digital nomads, Puerto Vallarta boasts several coworking spaces. Angulo Cowork features a lightning-fast 1,000 Mbps fiber optic connection, soundproof offices, and a relaxing outdoor terrace [13]. Vallarta Cowork, located near Rio Cuale, provides ergonomic seating, meeting rooms, and a phone booth, with day passes starting at $10 [12]. Beyond these structured spaces, the city's neighborhoods offer a variety of lifestyles to suit different preferences.
If you enjoy working from cafes, Puerto Vallarta has plenty of options with dependable internet:
| Cafe Name | Rating | Internet Speed | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Green Place | 4.8 | 47 Mbps | Vegan menu, coworking table |
| A Page In The Sun | 4.6 | 73 Mbps | Cozy atmosphere |
| Bean and Brick | 4.9 | 50+ Mbps | Comfortable seating, great coffee |
The city's neighborhoods each have their own vibe. Versalles is a favorite among digital nomads, offering coworking spaces and a thriving food scene [10]. 5 de Diciembre provides a more local feel, with cobblestone streets and authentic taco stands. Meanwhile, the Romantic Zone combines beach access with a lively nightlife scene. This mix of amenities and charm makes Puerto Vallarta a great choice for remote workers.
"Living in Puerto Vallarta, you have to pinch yourself constantly. The Sierra Madre mountains and the Bay of Banderas combine to create postcard-worthy scenery that often results in those 'Is this real life?' moments." – Sasha Savinov, Goats On The Road [10]
For long-term stays, you can find a furnished two-bedroom apartment in Versalles, complete with a rooftop pool, for around $70 per night [14]. Fluvial Vallarta is another option, offering lower rental costs while still providing access to key amenities [14].
The ideal time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between December and April [10]. With its strong internet infrastructure and a welcoming expat community active in Facebook groups, this city offers a comfortable and affordable alternative to pricier U.S. cities like New York [9].
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3. Mexico City
Mexico City’s mild winter weather, averaging 64°F (18°C), makes it an appealing choice for remote workers seeking a mix of productivity and cultural experiences. The city has become a hotspot for professionals working remotely, especially in areas like Condesa and Roma, which balance work-friendly amenities with vibrant lifestyle options.
For those in need of coworking spaces, Mexico City has plenty to offer. Here are some top-rated options:
| Coworking Space | Rating | Key Features | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Openhub Condesa | 9.7/10 | Free workspace, private rooms, strong Wi-Fi | Variable |
| WeWork Varsovia | 9.5/10 | 24/7 access, dog-friendly, phone booths | Check app |
| Público Condesa | 8.9/10 | Rooftop terrace, Mom's Room, bilingual staff | $190–$320 |
| Colony Spaces | 8.6/10 | Air-conditioned, terrace, scooter borrowing | Variable |
If you prefer working in cafes, there are excellent options as well. Blend Station in Condesa is a favorite among remote workers, offering local coffee and fast Wi-Fi for about $2.75 per drink. Cardinal Casa de Café in Roma is another go-to spot, known for its reliable internet and cozy atmosphere.
The city’s neighborhoods cater to various lifestyles and budgets. Roma and Condesa are popular choices, with monthly apartment rentals typically ranging from $900 to $1,300. For a more upscale vibe, Polanco offers rentals between $1,000 and $1,500. If you’re looking for an artistic setting, Coyoacán is a great option, with easy access to coworking spaces, cafes, and nightlife.
Internet connectivity in Mexico City is solid, with average speeds of 67.04 Mbps for downloads and 40.15 Mbps for uploads [16]. A monthly budget of around $1,800 is generally enough to cover rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. Plus, the city operates on US Central Time, making it convenient for collaborating with North American teams [15].
Mexico City’s popularity among digital professionals is growing fast. In 2022, the city issued nearly twice as many temporary residency permits compared to 2019 [15]. To make the most of your time here, consider joining coworking communities like PÚBLICO Roma, which hosts events such as networking meetups, cocktail hours, and yoga sessions.
4. Mérida
Mérida offers a warm winter climate, ranging from 68°F to 85°F (20°C–29°C), and combines colonial charm with modern conveniences, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. With living expenses around $850 per month, the city caters to both work and leisure needs [2].
The coworking scene in Mérida is well-suited for remote workers, with several standout options:
| Coworking Space | Daily Rate | Monthly Rate | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conexion60 | $12 | $205 | 24/7 access, 80+ Mbps Wi-Fi, ergonomic furniture |
| Terraza60 | $10 | $123 | Outdoor terrace, pet-friendly, art workshops |
| Enter_Work | $12 | From $117 | Modern space, 24/7 access, common areas |
These spaces provide the perfect balance of functionality and comfort, enhancing the city's reputation as a remote work hub.
For those who prefer a more casual setting, Márago Coffee and Manifesto Casa Tostadora Calabrese offer reliable Wi-Fi and cozy seating options [17]. The city's average internet speed is 35 Mbps, and many parks and public areas provide free Wi-Fi access [2].
Housing in Mérida's central areas averages $358 per month [2], while mobile plans remain affordable, with 10 GB of data costing about $7.80 monthly [2].
During the winter, Mérida's P.º de Montejo, Plaza Grande, and the Mayan World Museum come alive with cultural events. Day trips to Valladolid or taking a Yucatecan cooking class add to the experience.
"Digital nomads have praised Conexion60 for its spacious and clean environment, comfortable desks and chairs, and impressive wifi speeds (80+ Mbps). The space is open 24/7 and offers good security." – Two Tickets Anywhere, June 2024 [17]
Mérida's growing popularity among digital nomads has led to a variety of coworking spaces. Conexion60 remains a top choice, while Enter_Work offers a sleek, modern option outside the historic center [17].
5. San Miguel de Allende
Just a three-hour drive north of Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende boasts a pleasant "eternal spring" climate, with winter temperatures ranging from 42°F to 84°F [18][20].
If you're working remotely, the city has plenty of coworking spaces to suit different needs:
| Workspace | Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Space Coworking | High-speed internet, private offices | Professionals staying long-term |
| San Marcos Coworking | Community events, shared spaces | Those looking to network |
| Selina San Miguel de Allende | Coliving option, 24/7 access | Digital nomads wanting flexibility |
A standout is Santa Tere Espacio, a newer coworking hub. Founder Nadyeli Quiroz Radaelli describes it as "a shared space for offices and creative community use" [21]. These coworking spots pair well with the city’s lively café scene and its variety of cultural events.
For reliable Wi-Fi and a cozy atmosphere, check out these cafés:
- Inside Cafe: Ranked #1 on TripAdvisor, offering plenty of power outlets and vegetarian menu options [22].
- Geek Coffee San Miguel: Features dual fiber Wi-Fi and tech support in a garden setting [19].
- Ki'Bok Coffee SMA: Known for its rooftop terrace and steady internet [19].
San Miguel de Allende isn’t just about work - it’s also packed with winter activities. February brings the San Miguel Writers' Conference & Literary Festival, while March 21st marks the Equinox Concert at the Charco del Ingenio [23].
"Creatives, foodies, and romantics converge in San Miguel de Allende, adding a cosmopolitan flair to its authentic Mexican character." – Zachary Rabinor, T+L A-List advisor and CEO of Journey Mexico [24]
Other notable spots include La Casona SMA, with its fast Wi-Fi and on-site café, and Co404, which combines coliving and coworking [19].
The dry winter season (November through May) is perfect for wandering the city’s cobblestone streets and admiring its colonial architecture [24]. In 2024, Travel + Leisure readers named San Miguel de Allende the No. 1 city in the world [24].
Pro Tip: Pack layers! While afternoons are warm, mornings and evenings can be chilly [18].
Conclusion
Mexico offers a variety of winter destinations that blend reliable infrastructure, vibrant local culture, and remote work-friendly environments. Here's a quick overview of what some top locations have to offer:
| City | Avg Internet Speed | Avg. Monthly Rent* | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playa del Carmen | Fast Wi-Fi | $500 | Beach lifestyle with a thriving coworking scene |
| Puerto Vallarta | 47 Mbps | $500 | LGBTQ+ friendly, with fiber-optic internet options |
| Mexico City | 65 Mbps | $500 | A cultural hotspot with excellent connectivity |
| Mérida | 35 Mbps | – | Known for colonial charm and budget-friendly living |
| San Miguel de Allende | – | – | Artistic vibe paired with a mild, spring-like climate |
*Average rent reflects the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center [1].
For digital professionals, Mexico City stands out with its variety of coworking spaces and fast internet speeds. On the other hand, coastal gems like Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta offer the perfect mix of work amenities and stunning beachfront settings.
Internet speeds across major hubs range from 35 to 65 Mbps [2], ensuring a reliable connection for remote work. For added convenience, you can grab a local 4G SIM with 6 GB of data for just $25 [25].
Mexico's popularity continues to grow, with over 32 million international visitors annually and a 30% increase in recent years [1]. For those looking to balance work and leisure, the country remains a top choice.
Pro tip: Plan your trip during the shoulder seasons (April/May or October) to enjoy fewer crowds and better prices [1].