Living in Mexico

"There are many people from the USA, Canada and Europe have visited Mexico, love it and have considered relocation. Many visitors also spend their Mexico trip to the top resort areas at the best time of year to be there. This being the winter months. The down season is usually from May through October and the top resort areas are ghost towns. Reason for this is the abysmal heat and humidity. I once spent a month in Mazatlan in August. Mazatlan is just the start of the tropics and the heat and high humidity were abysmal and almost impossible to tolerate. Even walking a short distance can be very unpleasant as are the temperatures that can top 120 degree with 98% humidity. The only tolerable place to be are inside with the air conditioning on high. I love and visit the tropical areas yet only in the winter. I live in the South area of Rosarito Beach, Baja California. Year round climate is beautiful. Never too hot or cold. Winters are very mild and similar to San Diego, Ca. I have friends in Rosarito that spend their summers here and winters in the tropics. Living in the tropics is most certainly not the ideal area for most people. Even the locals hate the low seasons. I have not seen this topic get a lot of attention here yet what I have said is absolutely true," wrote one member in Mexico.

"I suggest you never secure a 6 mo lease until you see and feel the property. Committing to 6 month online is not recommended whether you get a 180 day visa or not. Get a hotel when you arrive and make that your base camp to find longer arrangements. Don't think what you see online is what is actually there. Bait and switch happens in Mexico....and don't forget it. Once they have your money you are behind the curve," remarked one expat who made the move to San Carlos.

"Read www.yucatanliving.com and www.meridainsider.com for information on living here," explained one expat living in Yucatan, Mexico.

"Mexico offers many attractive benefits for retirees looking for a warm climate and a lower cost of living. Before retiring to Mexico, expats should familiarize themselves with the country's laws, customs, and culture. Additionally, they should investigate the cost of living in their preferred location, as prices and availability vary greatly depending on the region. Expats should also consider enrolling in Mexico’s medical insurance program or purchasing private coverage to ensure they have access to quality medical care. Additionally, expats should be aware that many medicines not available in Mexico can be ordered online or imported. Finally, many retirees in Mexico find it beneficial to learn some conversational Spanish, since the language is widely spoken throughout the country," said one expat in Mexico.

"I have a 3 bedroom, 3 bath in a nice gated community. Very safe and quiet well except for the fireworks!!! Be prepared for 2 weeks in September. The weeks from Sept 6 to Sept 20th, Magdelena has a Saints Festival with almost nonstop fireworks,fiestas, parades and music. Then it goes into the week of Sept 16 fireworks, fiestas and music!! In December we have the posadas. The rest of the time it is quiet. We have marvelous hot air balloons, or on the ground tours of all the marvelous wineries," said one expat who made the move to Tequisquiapan.

"If you are working here, start with work colleagues. An organization called MEXPAT also hosts monthly events for expats here," wrote a member in Mexico City.

"Stroll the malecón in the evening, hang out at Captain Don's bar in 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, and at probably lots of bars in Old Town ("Zona Romantica")," commented one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"Expats in Mexico often join social clubs, language classes, and online forums devoted to helping foreigners adjust to life in Mexico. Additionally, many expats will connect with local expat organizations such as the International Newcomers Network, which coordinates events and activities for expats around the country. Another way for expats to meet people is by becoming involved in social volunteer work, such as helping out at a local soup kitchen or animal shelter. Many cities, particularly touristy destinations, also have local arts and music scenes that expats can become involved in. Finally, Mexico is known for its vibrant nightlife, so expats can often make friends while out at bars, clubs, and cultural events," remarked one expat living in Mexico.

"There are lots of activities in San Carlos. In the winter, Club Deportivo hosts an Educational series along with the usual bingo and such. There are several non-profit organizations to join, The Rescate (EMS) thrift store collects and sells items to support ambulance service. The Castaway Kids supports the local orphanage. The Rotary - and more. If you want to be involved there are many avenues. Most of the support groups are run by English speaking people, so there should be no hesitation if you haven't entirely grasped the language," wrote one member in San Carlos.

"We have two groups to meet other ex-pats. One is for couples, they meet weekly and go to dinner. Their name is Thirsty Thursdays. The other is a ladies lunch group. we meet once a month at the restaurant El Tablau, at 1 pm. Everyone is welcome and we generally have a speaker. From these two groups you can learn about the charities and opportunities in Manzanillo," remarked one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Mexico often find that life there is full of opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Mexico's mild climate, friendly locals and vibrant cities make it a desirable place for many expats and digital nomads looking to settle down in a new country. The country also offers a variety of activities and locations for expats, ranging from its stunning beaches, old-world colonial cities, and incredible nature preserves. Expats and digital nomads in Mexico enjoy a low cost of living, and they are able to find affordable housing, transportation, and food. Although learning the local language can be challenging due to the lack of English-speaking facilities and programs, the country is known for its welcoming culture and its legal system that aids expats in obtaining visas and permanency. Overall, Mexico is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads, who can enjoy the warm weather, low cost of living, and vibrant culture while continuing their work abroad," commented one expat who made the move to Mexico.

"People tend to work long hours during the week, not much on the weekends which is generally reserved for families. If you have kids you will be invited to tons of birthday parties, parents are expected to attend, not just drop the kids off. The parties are quite extravagant compared to the US," remarked one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Generally the expats are retired and their lives revolve around golf, tennis, bridge, socializing, walking or swimming in the ocean, reading, and whatever else they feel like. We have quite a few artists and others willing to share their knowledge. There are charities and animal welfare groups always looking for help," wrote one member in Manzanillo.

"Renovating old colonial homes, enjoying the beach, learning about the Mayan culture," remarked one expat who made the move to Yucatan.

"Tequis is a small, colonial town that caters to weekend tourists, mostly from Mexico City and surrounding environs. Many of them own weekend homes here and come to get away from the hub-bub of big city life. Local denizens are very family oriented and making a living is just a normal part of everyday life. No big corporate presence here, just small businesses and many restaurants. Tons of small specialty shops," explained one expat living in Tequisquiapan, Mexico.

"There is less crime here than where we lived NOB. There is some petty crime.. burglaries and an occasional mugging. But these appear to be no worse than many places up north," remarked one expat living in Ajijic, Mexico.

"This town is the perfect blend of the local community and expats. Although one would recommend learning the language of any country where you live, English speakers can get by very well in San Carlos without it. So many expats have made San Carlos their home, that it is a well known "English" community. If you are looking for total immersion in the Mexican culture this may not be the place," remarked one expat living in San Carlos, Mexico.

"This school is a properly run school in that it requires the students to comply properly with discipline - unlike most other private schools here. The teachers are excellent and the school has a good, varied curriculum strong in sciences. It offers a two-year prepa. Most importantly it is a LAY school - not religious - so there is none of the time-wasting religious ritual found at some other schools," explained one expat living in Monterrey, Mexico.

"San Miguel de Allende is now one of the more expensive locations in Mexico with prices recently reported as being higher than many of the beach resorts. The town is promoted by the local politicians as an "up market" destination and it is no longer the ideal destination for ex-pats on limited budgets that it was 20 to 30 years ago. The plans to develop an international airport just outside the city will further drive this type of tourism. Obviously, it is possible to live cheaply if you avoid renting near the historic center and go for one of the more "popular" non-expat colonias. Shopping in local markets and avoiding eating out too much can also minimize expenses. The recent strength of the peso combined with high inflation has also made Mexico more expensive for ex-pats," wrote one member in San Miguel de Allende.

"I think that is a very personal question. You CAN find rental houses for about 5000 pesos per month, plus power and water, telephone and satellite. Then it depends on wether you eat the local fruits and vegetables or want something imported. Beer and alchohol are very reasonably priced, walking on the beach is free. I expect that for about 1000.00 US a person could live here comfortably. For 2000.00 you can live VERY well," remarked one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"I live in San Miguel de Allende and this is a tourist and expat destination with a dollar economy. Supermarket and utility prices are on par with the rest of Mexico but rents, wages for staff and service providers are high. A meal in a mid market restaurant will cost $US100 for 2 without going overboard and nearer US200 if you go for expensive cocktails, brandy or tequila. Rents var enormously depending upon location so you can find a 3 bed house in a so so area for US$450 but in a better area will be $900-1200 and in the historic center the sky the limit. Medical costs - a consultation with a general doctor or specialist US$40-50, blood/urine analysis US$100. Excellent medical services but if you need hospitalisation, long term cancer treatment etc you need to budget US$1m+ say for 5 years of chemo, radio, surgery and end of life care. Although private medical care is far less expensive than in developed countries it soon adds up and for me at age 68 in pretty good health, medical expenses insurance premiums and pay as you go represent 30% of my monthly expenditure. For young families you must budget for private education and medical/dental care," explained one expat living in Mexico.

"You can live in Puerto Penasco on as low as $400 per month, small apartment (not in the tourist area) and utilities and some food. Add more for going out to eat," said one expat.

"In Mexico, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and sports complexes. Beaches are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. Parks provide a great place to relax, take a walk, or have a picnic. Sports complexes offer a variety of activities, such as tennis, basketball, and soccer. Mexico also has a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theaters. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Mexico has a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and mountain biking," said one expat.

"I live farther north on the Sea of Cortez, San Carlos, Sonora. Right now [July] is 96deg and 63% humidity. It has not rained since December. I love it here where the desert meets the sea. You have to be tougher than most to put up with the heat and humidity in the summer. If you want to know temps just put the town in Accuweather and look for yourself. Like everywhere else in the world near the water is humid," mentioned an expat living in San Carlos.

"From what my friends in Mazatlan report, the summers there are hot and humid. Not as bad as PV but definitely uncomfortable. The central highlands have much more temperate climates year round, cheaper cost of living, and less touristy than the beach areas. I plan on arriving in Mazatlan in January, staying until the summer weather gets too rough for me, then heading to Morelia or Queretaro," said an expat in Mazatlan.

"Hot, hot, and hotter! Humid, humid, and humider! Well the high season between Dec and April is still pleasant and not as humid. Summer is a killer," remarked one expat in Playa Del Carmen.

"There are many night clubs with live music, from Salsa to Blues. There are too many restaurants to mention, from low end to high end. You will not want for a night life or if you are a foodie. I am a nght person, so I am speaking from personal experience," said one expat living in Merida.

"Bars, restaurants, clubs, live music, DJ's, street food vendors come out at night and lines form. We have sushi, burgers, seafood, oyster farms, hot dogs Sonora style (wrapped in bacon) menudo, birria, cabeza and lengua tacos, Sopas, so much yummy food," mentioned one expat inPuerto Penasco.

"We have so many large grocery stores in Playa, that I wonder sometimes how they stay in business. We have two Walmarts. Local produce markets are not easy to find. There is one very small one in town once a week," said one expat living in Playa Del Carmen.

"There is everything in Merida from local street vendors, market stalls, to Super Duper big box markets. There is a Walmart that is a step above what you find in the States, Sears, and a few super duper markets that sell everything from household goods to groceries, all in one place. Several malls have recently opened, so you can shop from high end to low end, and Centro has many streets of unusual and unique shops. You will need to guard your money as these unique shops have lovely hand made items," mentioned one expat inMerida.

"Super mercado Leys grocery store in the center of the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta has most everything and more than many U.S. supermarkets. La Comer, a large gourmet grocery store, puts Whole Foods to shame. It has quality wines, liquor, all cuts of meat, vegetables, canned goods and specialty gourmet items," commented one expat who moved to Mexico.

"We have Super Ley, Ley Express, Bodega Aurrera (Walmart) Sam's Club, Local vegetable and meat markets, Oxxo convenience stores, and a local store that brings special U.S. food here for our convenience (salami, bacon, sausage, bagels, english muffins, diet sodas, cheeses, spices, pies, etc) and special orders," remarked one expat living in Puerto Penasco.

"SHOPPING is great. Many do their grocery shopping at Wal-Mart, Sams Club, Chedraui (the Mexican version of Wal-Mart that is fantastic) the Mega store and others. Fifth Avenue is known for its lively, atmosphere with stores, restaurants with all types of specialty foods such as Mexican, Argentinian, Brazilian, French, Italian, Seafood, Steak and even fast food places like McDonald's and Burger King, Domino's Pizza, KFC. We have Office Depot, Home Depot, DHL, Fedex...just about everything," commented one expat.

"The process of applying for a visa in Mexico depends on the type of visa you require. Generally speaking, you will need to submit a visa application form, photographs, your passport, a valid return ticket, and the required visa fee to the Mexican consulate. Additionally, depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may have to provide additional documentation such as a proof of address, a medical certificate, documentation of sufficient funds, employment records, and proof of relationship to a Mexican citizen. The process of applying for Mexico residency is slightly more involved and documented evidence will often be required from you. In most cases, an application will be required that contains your personal information, orientation for the request, and a copy of your passport. Additionally, you will need to submit evidence of sufficient financial resources, proof of accommodation in Mexico, a medical certificate, a criminal background check, and proof that you have been a resident of Mexico for at least two years. After submitting the application and the required documentation, you will be called for an interview and your documents will be verified. Finally, after being approved, you can collect your residency card," said an expat in Mexico.

"The main thing to know is that you must start your residency request outside of Mexico, at a Mexican consulate. Then you have 30 days to present yourself to the Mexico immigrations. There are professional groups that will do all of this for you, for a fee, of course," remarked one expat in Merida.

"It has been over 3 years since we went through the process at the Seattle Consulate. They were very specific and they looked at our investment income with social security AND our savings accounts. We provided 2 years of statements downloaded from the brokerage house as well as deposits into our accounts from income. We knew that we would qualify for PR status so it was a breeze. There was no mention about notarization of downloaded documents but we were well organized and made it easier for them. I am unsure about future income from work since we were both retired, but I would think it will be more difficult to convince them that you will have ongoing income from work unless you provide a letter from HR or some other source that shows that you will continue to have income while residing in MX. The best method is to go fully prepared to show your financial qualifications absolutely meet or exceed their requirements," wrote one expat living in Merida.

"This is still a bit of a nightmare. You must apply for your residence from your home country and then there will be a few appointment with immigration. It took us 5 months to get our temp residency and we have to be in Mexico 30 days prior to our 1 year expiration date to renew. Keep you posted on that. At one point we were temp residents but gave it up as we were never in the country longer than 6 months at a time. We travel a lot. But the Mexican govt really wants you to have your residency," commented one expat who moved to Playa Del Carmen.

"This should be addressed at the immigration office here in Playa. Many come in on a Tourist Visa that is generally given for 180 days. After that, the person has to leave the country and return to hopefully get another Tourist Visa. However, their requirements for getting a Temporary or Permanent Visa are online and are affordable," said one expat.

"Medicare and supplements are only of use within the US except for certain life threatening emergencies when traveling. If you have substantial financial resources and a high respect for the health services in major cities you can pay for private care. Most insurance in MX will not cover preexisting conditions and the premiums are out of reach, especially for people over 70 or so. Staying connected with doctors and hospitals in the US is the most logical thing for us, we make several trips a year to see our doctors but are prepared to pay for care here in MX as needed," mentioned an expat living in Merida.