Start the Year Learning About Mexico at Puerto Vallarta’s IFC!

We are so glad and grateful to be returning to the International Friendship Club (IFC) early in 2026 for a series of lectures about Mexico covering many interesting topics. This will happen every other Monday, starting January 9, 2026. Carlos Navarro will be holding six “Mexico Conversations” with expats who are not only fully committed to learning more about Mexico but also raise their hands and contribute enormously to these cultural dialogues.

Visit the IFC's calendar for tickets here.

Here's a description of each of the lectures/conversations:

1.  Mexico’s 4th Transformation: The Movement Shaping a New Political Regime.

Monday, January 12, 2026. 4:30 – 6:00 PM.

Mexico is undergoing a profound political metamorphosis that is recasting the way its government operates and impacting the lives of millions of its citizens. Explore the ongoing social, political, and economic Fourth Transformation of Mexico—a profound change that is fundamentally reworking the nation's governance and priorities. Gain insights into how it affects you and everyone else living here.

2.  The Treasures of Mexican Media: Tools for Learning, Dialogue.

Monday, January 26, 2026. 4:30 – 6:00 PM.

Mexican media—from newspapers and magazines to broadcasts—is an enjoyable and effective window into the country and a great tool for dialogue with Mexicans. Those media outlets are in Spanish but there are tricks to translate them all. Find out how to take advantage of the huge realm of this country’s expansive media environment to discern, connect, and converse.

3.  Angeles Mastretta: Mexico in the Voice of a Contemporary Writer.

Monday, February 9, 2026. 4:30 – 6:00 PM.

Born in Puebla in 1949, Angeles Mastretta is a relevant figure in contemporary Mexican literature. Through titles like Tear my Heart Out and Women with Big Eyes, she expertly explores the complexities of Mexican society—its comforting and supportive ties, alongside its violence and misogyny. Her life, feminist writings, and connection to her beautiful city will unveil the intricacies of Mexico’s many social contracts.

4.  Mexican Muralism.

Monday, February 23, 2026. 4:30 – 6:00 PM.

Immerse yourself in this monumental public art form that served as a visual history textbook for a nation. This “Mexico Conversation” will take you beyond Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera to uncover the post-Revolutionary anecdotes revealed in the murals. It will also trace how this influential tradition carried on over decades, impacting other Mexican art forms.

5.  Violence and crime in Mexico: Who is to blame? Are you at risk?

Monday, March 9, 2026. 4:30 – 6:00 PM.

This year marks two decades since the Mexican Government deployed soldiers to the streets to combat criminal organizations—a strategy followed by an undeterred, rising wave of violence. How did this get so out of control? What is the status of law enforcement and the justice system? We’ll explore the many complex factors involved in this Mexican dilemma and discuss how it may affect you.

6.  Up Close and Personal: Outstanding Mexicans of Today.

Monday, March 23, 2026. 4:30 – 6:00 PM.

This country is being designed, built, and transformed by Mexicans who endeavor to bring about positive change. Hear the stories of outstanding contemporary Mexicans from all walks of life—finance, politics, sports, the arts, and more. You will be startled by the way they carry out their ambitious dreams for Mexico through deliberate daring, unfailing enthusiasm, and inspiring proficiency.