Mexico has convenience stores in almost every barrio and colonia in the country. Most are family owned independent ones run essentially out of a family house. There are also international chains such as 7-11 and Circle K but the iconic Mexican convenience store chain is undoubtedly Oxxo. During the past 30 years it has become a Mexican icon as much as Mariachis and telenovelas. It is found almost everywhere and serves everything you would expect from a convenience store. Junk food, coffee, beer, lottery tickets, SIM cards and much more.  It also handles refills on SIM cards, paying bills and  money transfers. You are very likely to visit an Oxxo store if you’re in Mexico for more than a couple of days. It has something for everyone. When you visit Oxxo remember to be patient. There are often long lineups which proceed very slowly at busy times such as weekend evenings. Of course the prices at Oxxo are often  more than at the local supermarket but then again that’s why it’s called a convenience store.