Workers tasked with the unpleasant job of collecting rubbish from Chapala households follow a tradition that encourages residents to give a holiday bonus during the Christmas season. They typically leave a printed envelope at the entrance of each home they service.
Later, the collectors return, ringing a bell as the garbage truck approaches, to pick up the envelopes containing cash tips. These contributions help cover holiday party expenses or provide some extra pocket money.
The amount is optional, but many expats commonly give at least 200 pesos per worker to show their appreciation for those who handle their waste.
A word of caution: Residents in Riberas del Pilar and Mirasol have reported scams involving fake garbag1e collectors. Men wearing red or orange vests have been ringing doorbells, picking up trash bags, and waving empty envelopes at unsuspecting residents. If they don’t arrive with a garbage truck, it’s likely a scam.