I have found that this phrase, “First time in Cabo?” is a frequent one spoken by the locals in the service professions. I have been asked this by countless cab drivers, time share salespeople, and shop keepers throughout the years. Guess I still do not look like a local!
I’m sure that this is a common ice breaker around the world. As I have moved from answering, “Yes”, to “First visit in a long time”, to “I live here part time,” I have witnessed various reactions. The first two answers elicit recommendations for restaurants, the best beaches, and discounts for tours. Once you say you live here part time, the timeshare salespeople walk away in search of new potential clients, and most others do not share their recommendations. So I started asking!
There is no better way to get to know a new place than to talk to the locals. And I think that when you share that you are in their home year-round, or even part time, like us, you get some recommendations beyond the tourist traps. This requires some stepping out of my comfort zone. If you haven’t read before, I was a shy kid and remain an introvert (as they call us now!) so I struggle to initiate conversation. Throw in a language barrier, and I am even more reluctant to engage. But I continue to force myself for three reasons: 1. The benefits far outweigh the risks. I have learned so much about our new home by talking with local people. 2. This is the best way to practice and continue to learn Spanish. 3. Casual conversation is much more expected in Mexico than in the US. The people are friendly and assume that you will exchange the occasional “buenos dias” and “como esta? “ It is also customary to wish strangers “provecho” (enjoy your meal) when passing by their table in a restaurant. These are just a few of the customs I have noted, and I have much to learn. So, “First time in Cabo?” “No, but more importantly, it won’t be my last”!