Welcome to Huatulco! A marvelous paradise located on the coast of the Southern Pacific, where daily life intertwines with the surrounding infrastructure. From the streets we traverse to the services we enjoy, every part of our community contributes to the serene lifestyle found here.
Are you considering making the vibrant coastal town of Huatulco your new home? Whether you’re drawn to its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, or laid-back lifestyle, navigating life in a new country can be both exciting and challenging. To help you settle into your new surroundings smoothly, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to essential services and lifestyle tips tailored specifically for expatriates in Huatulco.
**1. Infrastructure in Huatulco**
Let’s start with the basics: what is infrastructure and why is it so important for our community? Infrastructure encompasses everything from our roads to our public services and plays a crucial role in our daily lives. Imagine life without paved streets, without water services, or without reliable electricity. Infrastructure is the foundation upon which we build our lives and develop our community. Currently, Huatulco is experiencing significant growth, with municipal efforts focused on improving the infrastructure of this beautiful place. Because of these infrastructure upgrades may notice occasional water shortages as efforts are concentrated on enhancing the water supply for all.
**2. Driving in Huatulco: A Unique Experience**
Driving in Huatulco is an experience in itself. Our roads wind along the coast and through lush vegetation, offering breathtaking views at every turn. However, it’s important to consider driving conditions and the importance of proper maintenance. We thank the Municipality for their work in maintaining our paved streets and clean landscapes, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for both locals and visitors. Every year, they ensure streets are presentable and safe to welcome all visitors during the high season.
**Water Services in Huatulco**
Water is a fundamental necessity for daily living, and in Huatulco, you’ll find reliable water services provided by Fonatur, the National Fund for Tourism Development, which oversees the development and maintenance of infrastructure in Huatulco, including water supply systems. Residents can expect clean and safe drinking water delivered straight to their homes. If you ever have to go to their offices, they are located on the main boulevard sectorR, 70987, Crucecita, Oax. There, you’ll be able to address any questions or issues related to the water system in Huatulco.
**Internet Providers**
Staying connected is essential, especially in today’s digital age. In Huatulco, you have several options for internet service providers, including:
– Telmex: One of the largest and most established telecommunications companies in Mexico, offering reliable DSL and fiber optic internet services.
– Starlink: Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet service, ideal for remote areas where traditional infrastructure may be limited.
– MegaCable: A local cable company also offers internet packages, providing high-speed connectivity to residents.
**Mobile/Cell Providers**
For mobile phone services, major Mexican carriers such as Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T offer a range of prepaid and postpaid plans with nationwide coverage, ensuring you stay connected wherever you go in Huatulco. You’ll be able to find an official distributed Telcel center inside Huatulco’s main supermarket, Chedraui.
**Banking in Huatulco**
When it comes to managing your finances, a variety of banking options are available in Huatulco. When setting up your accounts, you’ll need to obtain an RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes), which is the Mexican tax identification number. Here are the top six banks operating in Huatulco:
- Banamex (Citibanamex)
- BBVA Bancomer
- Santander
- Scotiabank
- Banorte
- HSBC México
Also, if you are looking for an international ATM, you’ll be able to find one at the Caja Popular Mexicana, located at Blvd. Salina Cruz S/N M-1, L-10 Sector M. Here you’ll be able to withdraw cash through these ATMs if you happen to have an international bank card.
**Electrical Power Providers**
Electricity services in Huatulco are provided by the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), ensuring a reliable power supply to residents and businesses alike. Their offices are located at 70980, Blvd. Chahue 102, R, 70980 Crucecita, Oax. Right there, you’ll find a couple of machines where you’ll be able to pay your bill and right next to them the offices where you’ll be able to resolve any type of questions related to your electrical services.
**Solar Panel Powering**
Embrace sustainable living by harnessing the abundant sunshine in Huatulco with solar panel installations. Many residents opt for solar power systems to reduce their carbon footprint and lower electricity bills in the long run.
**K-12 Education Centers and Schools in Huatulco**
For families with children, Huatulco offers a range of educational options, including:
– Instituto Mexico Huatulco: One of the best bilingual private schools with educational levels from kindergarten up to high school. For information about this school, we can recommend checking out the tour we did in their facilities, where we talk about their services and educational programs.
There are a few other private schools just like Colegio Chahue & Colegio Santa Cruz that offer educational programs from kindergarten up to middle school and have some good reviews.
And last but not least, Jungle School, specially for kids from ages 4 to 11. Open to older kids as well, this school focuses on teaching in a more dynamic way, with organic agriculture and permaculture projects, music and yoga lessons, nature walks, and much more! You’ll be able to contact and ask for further information at 958 100 1284.
These institutions provide quality education in a supportive and enriching environment, catering to the diverse needs of expatriate families.
To see more in depth information about IMH check out the tour we did through their facilities:
**Getting a Driver’s License in Huatulco**
Thinking about driving in Huatulco? Then you’ll need a local driver’s license. Don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ll guide you through the requirements and procedures for obtaining your license, including important details about the required residency and how it affects the process. Driving legally in Huatulco is essential for your safety and that of others on our roads. As a national, you can obtain your driver’s license very quickly, simply by scheduling an appointment on the SEMOVI portal, making the corresponding payment. In addition to the payment established by the current State Law of Rights of Oaxaca, the following requirements must be met:
– Pass the online exam.
– Present an official Mexican identification.
– Lastly, a current proof of address.
The requirements for a foreigner to obtain a Mexican driver’s license may vary depending on the state and immigration status. However, common requirements usually include the following:
– Permanent residency.
– Valid passport.
– Schedule an appointment with SEMOVI.
– Take the theoretical and practical exams.
– Make the corresponding payments.
– Attend SEMOVI offices to take the photograph.
**Residency in Huatulco: An Important Step**
If you’ve fallen in love with Huatulco as much as we have, you may be considering settling here permanently. Obtaining residency is an important step in this process, and we want to ensure you are well informed. From the necessary procedures to the importance of residency for accessing local services and benefits, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to take this step with confidence.
Here is a list of requirements for obtaining your residency:
Requirements:
Passport.
One photograph.
Be nationals of the country in which they are applying for the visa or prove legal residence.
Financial solvency.
Cover the payment of corresponding fees in the form and amount specified by the Federal Law of Fees.
Present documents proving one of the following situations:
- a) Being retired or pensioned.
- b) Family ties (parents, minor children, siblings, cohabitants, minor stepchildren) with a Mexican or foreign person holding Permanent Resident status or a Permanent Residency visa holder. In the case of spouses, cohabiting partners, or concubines, documentation will be processed with a Temporary Residence visa, subject to meeting conditions that must be maintained for 2 years and subsequently requesting a permanent resident card from the National Institute of Migration (INM).
Cover the payment of corresponding fees in the form and amount specified by the Federal Law of Fees.
Note: The residency card that proves your legal stay and allows you to remain in national territory must be processed within the following 30 calendar days from your entry into national territory.
If you want to explore more about this you can visit: https://www.gob.mx/sre/acciones-y-programas/visa-de-residencia-permanente
As you embark on your journey to Huatulco, we hope this guide serves as a valuable resource to help you navigate essential services and embrace the unique lifestyle of this enchanting coastal town. Welcome to your new home in paradise!