Fifteen students of the study programme Urban Planning made a weeklong field trip to Mexico City, accompanied by Prof. Dr. Monika Grubbauer and Luisa Escobar. Aim of the field trip was to explore current urban processes outside Europe. The focus was on mechanisms and challenges in informal settlements, housing practices and changes in inner-city quarters. The students meet with local activists and residents. They also gained insights into the research project housing microfinance in Mexico.