1. Focus on yourself and less on what others are doing

If we told you to focus on yourself 10 years ago, it would’ve been so much easier. You wouldn’t even be aware of what anyone else was doing. The best part? You wouldn’t even be tempted to find out. But with social media being a huge part of our daily lives, you can now find out what anyone’s up to from your childhood crush to your barber.

The temptation to tap into someone else’s life is real when it’s quite literally at your fingertips and only a click away. But this doesn’t mean you should give in to it.

People only put their best selves forward on social media, similar to a dating app (that you most definitely should not be on when embracing single life). They only show the highs and not what it took to get there. The lows aren’t picture perfect and have no place on Instagram.

If you wouldn’t post a picture of yourself mid mental break down head first in a tub of ice cream, (or whatever equally messy situation you find yourself in to wallow), why would anyone else? 

When we’re in a relationship, we’re subconsciously factoring in our partner into everything we do and how it would affect them. You’re not stalking them on social media (we hope), but they cross your mind just the same.

Remember that thing your ex hated? Do it. Do it 10 times. Or that thing your friend in a relationship is forbidden to do? Do it for them. Being single is a good opportunity to focus on yourself and fulfill your needs, so don’t waste it by thinking about what others are doing. You can’t possibly live your best life if you’re focused on someone else’s.

2. Fall in love with yourself

Self-love is the new #relationshipgoals. Before you go searching for love outside of yourself, you should learn to love yourself first. Relationships come and go, but the one you have with yourself lasts a lifetime. We all have so much love to give, but amazing things happen when you choose to give it to yourself. The possibilities are endless.

Self-love isn’t loving everything about yourself. No one’s perfect. It’s about recognizing you have flaws and still deciding you’re worthy of love. It’s sticking up for yourself and saying no when you deserve better. It’s taking care of yourself first and foremost. It’s doing what makes you happy, regardless of what it looks like to anyone else. Basically, it’s doing anything you’d do for someone you love, but for yourself.

When you love yourself, you become complete on your own. You see a partner as an extra piece, a great addition, but you know you won’t fall apart without them. This will lead to healthier relationships as you won’t rely on them entirely for your happiness, which isn’t fair on them or on you. When you give someone complete control over your happiness, you also give them the power to take it away.

Loving yourself also sets the boundaries and expectations that you want others to meet. If you treat yourself with the utmost respect and love, others will follow. This goes for romantic relationships and friendships. We attract what we are after all. If you want better, be better.

3. Figure out what you want in life

Many people tend to lose themselves when in a relationship. You become a team. “I want” becomes “we want” and “that’s better for me” becomes “that’s better for us.” And this isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you want the same things in life.

But how many of us have forgotten about the dreams we had before the relationship? Relationships involve compromise, but sometimes we get so caught up in it all that we don’t realize how far we’ve come from what we wanted just to keep our other half in our lives.

But it’s not the relationship at fault. It’s our own. If you take the time when you’re single to figure out what you truly want in life, you’re less likely to give it up. Even for love. Entering a relationship without knowing what you want to do with your life is like signing your soul away.

You’ll be easily influenced by what the other person wants. Figuring out what your life goals are is the first step to achieving them. 

4. Hang out with other singletons 

If you spend most of your time with people in relationships or couples, you’ll only ever see the cons of being single. Especially with all the PDA going on.

Ever felt left out by friends in relationships and not been included in plans because it’s a “couples thing?” It makes you feel bad for being single and no one wants to feel this way. But what you do about it is up to you. We suggest going to do a “singles thing” and making them wish they were single too.

People in relationships lead different lives, they have different priorities to you. This isn’t to say cut them off entirely, but hanging out more with fellow singles will help you to see the pros. They don’t have to be home at 11 PM, they’re better wingmen (but they do come with a chance of stealing your crush), and they definitely won’t ask you for relationship advice. 

5. Build meaningful friendships

Being single is basically a free ticket to hang out with the lads without worrying about your phone blowing up. We always talk about the importance of improving our relationships, but what about our friendships? You could spend seven years in a relationship with someone for it to come crashing down overnight.

They’ve stood by your side for what feels like a lifetime. But when all is said and done, they’re nowhere to be seen. They vanish out of thin air and become a distant memory. And who is it that shows up for you to pick up the pieces? Your friends – who definitely don’t get enough credit for it.

You should treat friendships like you treat relationships. If you don’t put in the work, they fade out. Take the time to get to know them on a deeper level. Plan fun adventures. Show them how much they mean to you. When you’re in a relationship, you have to balance your partner and your friends. But when you’re single, all you have to think about are your friends. Take advantage of it.

Strong friendships can even lengthen your lifespan, so if you’re wanting to stick around as long as possible and have a good time, hit up your friends for a night out and come back at dawn. Or next weekend. 

6. Get comfortable with being alone

Being alone doesn’t have to mean lonely. It only means lonely when someone isn’t comfortable with being alone (sorry if this is you. Truth hurts). But we must admit, it’s easier to feel lonely these days when you’re at home scrolling through Instagram and see everyone out and about.

Especially if you have major FOMO. But the reality is, you can’t possibly be with someone 24/7. So would you rather be that guy frantically flicking through his contacts in a panic trying to find anyone to hang out with or that guy who keeps his cool and can afford to be selective of who he hangs out with? We’re pretty sure it’s the latter. 

If being alone makes you uncomfortable, you’ll be more accepting of letting people into your life that don’t deserve to be there. It’ll drive you into the wrong types of friendships and relationships out of fear.

Being at ease in your own company won’t allow you to settle for less than you deserve. And when you do find someone you’d like to settle down with, you’ll be able to accept and respect their boundaries. No woman wants to be followed around by a man child. 

7. Become the best version of yourself

After spending time alone with your own thoughts and feelings, you’ve probably realized things about yourself that you’re not a huge fan of (the real reason why you had an obsession with avoiding your own company being one of them).

There’s nothing worse than finding the love of your life and realizing you’ve still not shaken your fear of commitment. Or lose them in the heat of the moment thanks to your short fuse. Whatever it may be, now is the time to fix it. We all have baggage, but you don’t want to drown them in it.

Get a therapist or hop on Google (ah, to be Google and know all the weird and wonderful things people search), but don’t forget to clear your search history when that first date does come. You know, just in case you get lucky.

1. Salute the sunset in style at the Salón Ríos near the Monumento a la Independencia

Within Mexico, a major symbol of both Mexico City and the country itself is the Angel de la Independencia. It’s a must-have photo opportunity as it sits on one of the most important throughways in town, Av. Paseo de la Reforma.

The Angel was constructed in 1910 to celebrate the country’s centennial since the start of the war that led to Mexico’s independence. After selfie-time, you can enjoy a swanky drink at Salón Ríos. Order the flan, and wash it down with a mezcal. 

For bonus points, put this plan into action around sunset on your first night in DF. Be prepared, however, for the magic of the city to consume you.

2. Take Notes at the Museo Nacional de Antropologia

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Visiting a museum is a luxury that is lost on some people. Those who would rather be doing anything else than learning are reminded that a little cultural education is a good thing now and again, and that’s what the Museo Nacional de Antropologia is all about. You can’t go to Mexico City without expecting to take in some history, too.

Near the famed Bosque de Chapultepec (the heart of the city in many regards), the museum puts Mexican, Mayan, Aztec, and other Mesoamerican cultures right at your fingertips. History buffs, art lovers, and photographers are sure to enjoy eyeing the intriguing artifacts.

TripAdvisor fans note that although some online sources list the museum as temporarily closed, they have been able to enter by buying a ticket at the door. Double-check the current status of the museum and its operating hours before heading out. After your visit to the museum, take a nice walk around the park and enjoy its hidden gems.

3. Panoramic pics at the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Torre Latino

The Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Torre Latino are icons in their own right in Mexico City. If you’re into exploring the city by public transit, head to metro Bellas Artes. One of the most remarkable metro stations in town takes travelers to the streets of Paris with the traditional art nouveau facade. 

From there, scope out the Palacio. Inside, the marble interiors show off the city’s rich cultural roots. Meanwhile, murals and a small cafe await those who are hoping for a pitstop. Some weekends, the museum sets up outdoor spaces so passersby can catch an opera show, literally “on the house” thanks to a large projection screen set-up on the side of the building.

Across the street, the Torre Latino stretches over one of the city’s most frequented shopping districts. Catch a glimpse of all the action, and take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity by taking it to the next level. Floor 44 offers spectacular panoramic views.

On the way up, impress your travel companions with a little trivia: The Torre Latino was the tallest building in Latin American at the time of its construction in 1956.

4. Practice your Spanish at Quintonil

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Mexico City has gained international notoriety as one of the world’s most esteemed food capitals. Netflix makes documentaries about its food, and if that isn’t a testament to its delicious, spicy flavors, we don’t know what is.

And believe this, there’s no better time to dust off that old Spanish than when ordering food at a restaurant in Mexico. Waiters are usually friendly and happy to help you along, even if it’s a struggle.

In Polanco, Mexico City’s elite wine and dine on the regular. Where are they heading? Beyond the old standbys, locals recommend Quintonil. Established in 2012, the restaurant’s concept specifically accentuates traditional Mexican flavors.

The name refers to a herb commonly used in Mexican plates. The in-the-know local’s comment that the dishes are always fresh and tantalizing thanks to Chef Jorge Vallej’s local produce-based menu. In recent years the restaurant maintained its fame by landing exclusive spots on the World’s 50 Best Restaurant list as well high rankings in Latin American Restaurant categories. 

5. Take in a private concert on a Xochimilco Cruise

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On the outskirts of town, there’s a neighborhood with a waterway – Xochimilco. Here, something mesmerizing happens as the maze-like roadways yield to a dock filled with festive and colorful barges called trajineras. The jetsetter seems to enter another realm.

A boat ride in Xochimilco is exactly what you make of it. The ride can become serene and romantic, fiesta and alcohol-fueled, or a family-rated event. The vibe is up to you.

Think gondolas but with Mexican design elements. The park offers canals where the boats float lazily through natural greenery. Along the way, vendors float up peddling drinks, food, souvenirs, artwork, and music. You can book your own private concert right on the water.

The music is authentically Mexican, so be prepared for samples that touch on marimba, ranchero, or other traditional sounds. Some of the gondoliers even tell ghost stories if you’re interested (but they’ll most likely be in Spanish). Of course, this activity is subject to availability. Book a tour knowing what’s to be expected at the time of your trip. 

6. Explore the artsy side of the city with a tour of the Museo Frida Kahlo

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In Coyoacan, there are two bucket list items not to be overlooked. The first is eating quesadillas in one of the local stands at the market or the plaza. There are vegan options on the menu, too, which makes the trip especially unique.

In Mexico City, by the way, the locals do not put cheese on a quesadilla unless it’s specifically stated. If you’re feeling cheesy, be sure to practice saying “con queso, por favor” when you order.

The second destination in Coyoacan is the Frida Kahlo Musuem. The house the painter once shared with Diego Rivera stands as a shrine to the creative energy she brought not only to DF but to the world.

The pros know that buying tickets online is highly recommended as the wait to buy a ticket in person often wraps around the block. Even then, for some, the visit to the Casa Azul is still worth it! 

7. Sit back with a good book at the Biblioteca Vasconcelos

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If you’ve ever wondered what a spaceship library might look like, la Biblioteca Vasconcelos comes pretty close. Architecturally, the building has an interesting story to tell. Opened in 2006, it was soon closed due to safety concerns regarding the construction. Millions of dollars were poured into the repair so that the library remains standing, now safely, for all to enjoy.

This library’s got it all – breathtaking architecture, urban appeal, and a robust English selection. It’s a great place to relax when the heat makes wandering the streets a little tiring. In a world where we’ve got the whole internet on our mobile devices, it still feels good to stop and read a physical book once in a while.

8. Sip on Sangria at Cafetería El Péndulo en la Zona Rosa

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Mexico has colonial ties to the Spanish, and the culture shows up throughout the city. If you’re in the mood to explore Mexico-Spain fusion experiences, you might try the literary haunt famous for its piano bar and sangria.

El Pendulo now has a few locations across town, but the most well-known finds itself on the backstreets of Zona Rosa, Mexico City’s LGBT+ community where the nightlife is generally vibrant and all sorts of people are open to having a good time.

Beyond the clubs, big and small, tranquil options captivate locals and tourists alike. Sipping on Sangria, enjoying a cabaret show, and hanging out around the city can make for an exciting but low-key evening affair.

9. Get some fresh air with a trip to Teotihuacán

Teotihuacán is pretty far from the city itself, but not so much that it didn’t make the cut. It’s about an hour or two away (the city is famous for its traffic, too). The mini-road trip sends travelers to the foot of the pre-Columbian ruins. In fact, it’s one of the most visited sites in all of Mexico.

It’s a history lesson and a chance to catch some fresh air all in one. The pyramids were constructed between the first and seventh centuries AD. In fact, it’s believed to be one of the first (and biggest) cities built in North America. As the years went by, local people called the area Teotihuacán, which in Nahuatl, translates to “where the Gods were created.”

Beyond the cultural significance, the picture potential is huge. These are the types of shots that make people react! Your followers will be in your DMs asking for Mexico City travel tips.

10. Shop and stop for a drink in San Angel

Mexico City’s shopping is like no other. There are plenty of centros comerciales to go around, yet the local neighborhood markets and boutiques often have their own one-of-a-kind style options. Self-proclaimed shopaholics will feel right at home. As they say, “mi casa es su casa.” The city’s south side offers a lot to those looking to pick up some new goods while in Mexico.

In San Angel, BAZAAR SABADO is the place to check out for furniture, jewelry, and wear. According to the store’s website, the name of the game here is “creativity, knowledge, and tradition.” It’s the perfect place to snag a molcajete (mortar and pestle), a special tool used to make salsas and guacamoles.

Later, expand on the authentic Mexican experience with a stop at the elegant and airy San Angel Inn.

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Make a reservation online for breakfast on the Veranda. Monday through Friday, they’re open from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, on weekends from 8:00 PM to 12:30 PM. 

This might be the perfect “last stop” before heading back to the airport on your final day, especially if you’ve got a later afternoon flight. Plenty of time to eat and make it to the gate before takeoff.