Job Discussion Forums

[MikeySaid]

So I will be getting on a plane in about 5 weeks for Torreon and I'm not really sure how to pack. One week's worth of work clothes? Two? (What's that... ten shirts?)

What's the most important stuff to bring?

I'm on top of toiletries and that sort of stuff, and I know I won't be able to find shoes on a regular basis (i'm a 12�/13US)... so my questions are more related to

[Guy Courchesne]

It's stinking hot in Torreon...you'll sweat and so need to wash clothes often. Since you'll be there for a year, you'll inevitably buy some clothes to wear...local wear. I'd say pack the clothes you want and be ready to acclimatize.

Shaving cream and razors if use them...bring lots and lots as they are much more expensive in Mexico. Cologne too, which is subject to luxury taxes.

You might have a tough time getting skis, I mean shoes, in your size. Border runs for shopping might be in your future...

[lozwich]

I knew someone who lived in Saltillo (quite near Torreon, if I'm not mistaken) and she used to do frequent border runs for clothing. I shouldn't think you'd need 10 shirts, but beware if you go to the laundry because they'll destroy your clothes in no time.

[MikeySaid]

[MELEE]

Seeing as you've been there before, I'm kind of surprised you'd ask.
You should have an idea about what is and is not available, and considering that nowadays just about everything--well excluding asian food items--is available in a small town in Oaxaca, I imagine there isn't much you can't get in Torreon!

In addition to shaving cream, sunblock is really way more expensive here. So if you are fairskinned, bring plenty of that.

Three or four pairs of shoes, if something happens to your only work shoes you don't want to be forced to do a weekend run to Texas just for footware!

Guys don't care about this as much, but Mexican towels and sheets tend to be poor quality and the top quality stuff --Costco is a good source for it--- can be mighty pricey! so I usually tell people to bring a set of sheets and a nice towel, provided they have space for it.

I alluded to this in my post about your flag, but really the only thing you can't get are things about you, photos of family and friends, post cards of places around you city or other places you've been. Something to decorate you apartment, desk, office or classroom and show your students and new friends because they will be curious about you and where you are from.

Something to do, if you play sports or an instrument--bring everything you need to do that here. You can buy that stuff here but it will probably be more expensive, or of poor quality.


And for Heven sakes bring gifts for your girlfriend's family!!!

[danielita]

I'm a big foodie, so I brought along some curries and spices that I needed to make some of my favourite recipes. I mostly did this until I could find them in the local stores, but there are still a few things that I can't find like Thai fish sauce (I still have lots though). Being Canadian, I also brought along Maple Syrup and good Canadian Whiskey as hostess gifts. People were really impressed to receive it. Of course, you are flying, so your weight allowance is limited, so you will definitely need to prioritize.
Also, blue tack (the sticky stuff to stick up posters). It is pretty much impossible to find here.

D

[davechile]

So How big do they sell shoes to? I am a 11 US and headed to Costa Rica. I need another pair of shoes like a shot in the head. I am going to drive through Mex on my way to CR. But, I'd love to get a custom pair of sandels..authentic man!