Why Expats Go Back Home

Mexico Expat Facebook Group
/ theexpatcommunitymexico
For large moves to Mexico, such as relocating your entire household, schedule a shipping consultation with Pablo’s team www.internationalrelocationpartner.com

[@qroo]

Mexico Expat Facebook Group facebook.com/groups/theexpatcommunitymexico/

[@luikzv]

I'm mexican and I love see foreign people. We learn from them and they learn from us. I think this is amazing because people who are learning become clever and interesting people. Always you're welcome!

[@bjones9942]

I've found that the people who continue to call where they came from 'home' are the ones who move back. When I decided to move to México, the only expectation I had was that it would be different. Different weather (Mazatlán vs Seattle = different!), different culture, different lifestyle, different. And it was/is. Some differences are good, some are not - but my expectations have held to reality.

[@russellbarnes7728]

I'm from the US and have been living in Morelia, Michoacan, for three years now. It's been absolutely wonderful! My wife's a Mexican citizen, and I'm from Reno, Nevada. Assimilation is key, and not getting involved with the wrong people is advised. I've never been victimized by ANY crime in Mexico, and the people are welcoming! You can find trouble if you look for it. It's proven to be the best move I've ever made!

[@chasingtheAmericanDream]

We love Morelia! 👏

[@MexicoAdventurer]

Trouble can find you, too, becauseits looking for YOU. It happened to us while we were in Morelia on one of our many trips there. I live primarily in Guanajuato State, but we have a cabin in western Michoacan and a vehicle registered there, hence, the reason we have business several times a year for several days each visit, in Morelia. Beautiful city, comfy hotels, awesome food and sights... (the aqueduct!) but flat out dangerous at times. Don't anyone lie about that. I'll call you out. We keep our fingers on the pulse of Morelia to see when the lulls in violence occur, so that we can visit. Nowhere in Mexico is "safe" to a point that you can let your guard down. I've got 35 years in Mexico, and will tell you unequivocally that nobody comes here looking for Trouble. But it's here. How to AVOID it, that's the key.

[@chasingtheAmericanDream]

@@MexicoAdventurer That’s very true!

[@russellbarnes7728]

​@MexicoAdventurer I'm reflecting MY personal experience. I'm aware of what CAN happen if you aren't aware of your surroundings. That being said, I feel easily as safe as I did in the States. As I said, my wife is a Mexican citizen, and maybe that helps, or maybe I'm just lucky!

[@MexicoAdventurer]

@russellbarnes7728 You can be aware of your surroundings all you want to (and yes, you should be), but if it's your unlucky day that trouble turns its eye upon you... don't be fooled, you're being watched. By no-good people. Yes, you've been lucky. Your entire experience is based upon luck. Your wife being Mexican actually puts her at risk because of you being a foreigner. You're in the heart of M e n c h o country, and one of his major tactics is sequestering for money. The statistics in Mexico are that 75% of kidnapping victims don't live to tell about it. I'm just a few hours north of you, and some serial kidnappers were arrested with their latest victims, JUST PAST THE END OF MY DRIVEWAY when their green Tahoe that I'd been seeing every day broke down. Two out of three were arrested, and their kidnapping victim was released after debrief. The third kidnapper escaped on foot, and my dogs were going crazy because he cut past my house. That group was kidnapping 4 to 5 schoolchildren and housewives every week. They found the bones of a 14-year-old bicyclist they kidnapped but ended him when the family couldn't pay. In my little town, 100,000 people. You don't hear about it because our friend who started his media business was threatened by both the media and cartel to stop reporting on it. Don't let your wife go anywhere alone. Take precautions. Take off the rose colored glasses. Mexico is not safe, with Morelia high on the "unsafe" list. We had to stop going to Morelia 2 years ago because of all the kidnapping and carjacking on the north side of Morelia in the hills before we enter the city. Federal Fiscalia had their checkpoint, then further down, cartel has theirs. And nobody better report on them or try to stop them. You don't hear about it by design. Another capital city I lived in from 1989 to 2012 had a huge gun battle just outside my house. 8 people were killed, 1,500 rounds fired. By that night, the media had taken to toll down to 4. In a week, down to 2. In a year, down to one. In 5 years, they showed nobody had been x'd. A local reporter was reporting on it and on day 3, he was picked up in a van and driven around the city while being beaten. They were just trying to teach him a lesson but the ended him, droppedhis body on the newspapersteps 5 blocks from my house, and they put a sign on him, "This is what happens when you report on us." You don't hear about it because it's strictly against the rules to talk about or report on it. I'm just giving you a heads up, that the seedy underbelly is hard at work right under your nose, but rose colored glasses make it all disappear.

[@2GringosOnTheGulf]

We are 2 Canadians 🇨🇦 happy to call Mexico home for almost 3 years now. We absolutely miss our family, no desire to move back though. ✌🏼❤️🇲🇽

[@daniellegingras3319]

Where in Mexico and how old are you?

[@2GringosOnTheGulf]

@@daniellegingras3319 We are exploring Mexico 🇲🇽✌🏼 started off in Mérida Yucatán we now in Xalapa Veracruz soon to be moving to the Oaxaca coast somewhere. When we moved I was 54, the wife was 49. Still loving our life here in Mexico.🇲🇽🥰✌🏼

[@mylene_b]

Are you retiring in Mexico or working there? Do you have jobs in Mexico or are your jobs Canadian jobs?

[@2GringosOnTheGulf]

@@mylene_b I was blessed to retire at 54, the wife works online for a Canadian company. Yes we live here full time. We are temporary residents. 🇲🇽❤️✌🏼

[@d.f.9064]

"Opportunities are going to come, if you wait. Take your time. Surround yourself with professionals.". GREAT ADVICE.

[@paigeswartz7389]

Worked with Pablo's service when we moved to Costa Rica. We would highly recommend.

[@pawsitiveleader8710]

Can you work in Costa Rica?

[@MsChicoro]

Truthful, authentic, genuine, informative gentleman.

[@jeanharris2906]

People often don’t realize with major moves and changes wherever they go they don’t realize who they really are does not change when they geographically change locations and experiences.

[@luvablesweetnsassy]

Right, “wherever you go, there you are”

[@billclarke3754]

I've lived in Thailand, the Philippines and Mexico, many expats struggle with language and culture. Learning the language will help you learn the culture IMHO.

[@gmm5550]

Mainly ENGLISH speaking expats.. most European expats have 2-3 languages in the bagage before they even land in se-asia and have a culture of learning new languages. I did speak/read write 3 languages fluent when i did starting to work in Thailand 15 years ago and now i speak pretty good thai to ..writing thai..well..nope..i do read many words thou =)

[@user-mz4uo6we2q]

Learning the language is easier said than done when you've spoken English Primarily for 52 years. Learning Spanish (or any other language) later in life is possible but, FAR more difficult and you'll Never speak or understand that language like the locals. This is why it is important for the locals to learn English; it is the language of science, tech, business, aviation, and is helpful for Native English speakers (esp. Americans) to help them start to figure out and settle in their new homes. I am living in Mexico and what Spanish I do know is not enough and never will be. I'll always be scraping by on decent gringo Spanish. I've had representatives from Mega Cable and Telcel hang up on me when I've asked them to slow down their bullet-Spanish and that my Spanish is minimal (sh_t pretty much). I've given up on ever really being fluent in Spanish frankly.

[@gmm5550]

ps do u want ppl abroad to make american food so u feel like home or do greesy mcdonalds burgers and watery overpriced starbucks "coffee" do? hahaha

[@user-mz4uo6we2q]

@@gmm5550 That was not my point and please do not put sentiments that I did not say or intend in my mouth. (Also, please learn to spell and write in Correct English...)

[@gmm5550]

@@user-mz4uo6we2q You mr American entitled man are a GUEST in THEIR country.. YOU..can't demand others in THEIR country to adapt to YOU. Thank u for showing my all my prejudices about Americans going abroad.🤣

[@LS-id5hc]

Remember you are the same person just different location. I Wish you all happiness and good health. Always keep your dreams alive.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Going home is one of the best feelings in the world alongside one of the worst feelings in the world. I miss my friends back home, I don't miss the state of the US.

[@tonydewit2240]

Interesting video. We are at the 6 month mark now, honeymoon is over 🙂 Still renting, travelling the country using public bus services to see if we want to move or not. Haven't bought a car yet, we will wait it out before putting any serious money down.

[@MEN101]

Wait till you buy a car, have a car accident and then wait 6+ months for a Mexican insurance company to fix your car or pay you out. It does take that long or longer.

[@Mr-lw7gy]

Have had 2 car wrecks in Mexico, one my fault and the other not. So far the process was really quick, one month from accident to repair. I can’t imagine what 6+ months to get it fixed is like. That had to be crippling.

[@gabrielaalejandra1492]

I invite you to visit Miramar beach in the south of Tamaulipas, I offer you my service as a tourist guide.

[@talkcommonsense]

Dos hombres sinceros... bien hecho Paul...

[@tarey05]

Thank you, Paul and Pablo, for this excellent talk. I moved to Merida 3.5 years ago and secured a residence visa thru a very reputable organization-- Yucatan Expat Services. Adriana and her staff assisted me expertly thru the steps and I can call any time if I have any questions. (learned about them on a youtube video). I stay far away from expat groups, as I find them draining and dramatic. I never joined Facebook for this reason, though I know marketplace and community groups such as this can be valuable. When I arrived in Mexico in 2019 after retiring, i never felt more free. I was in fact shocked by how many Americans were buying property and older houses before they had even secured a temporary residence visa! That American mentality of owning everything was never one I could relate to. Part of the freedom is not owning! Thanks again, and see you in the next!

[@gabrielaalejandra1492]

Certainly not possessing gives freedom.

[@Kathryn551]

I agree with you:) Hoping to head out in November... kinda scared bc it's just me and my dog at age 70 but... I lived and worked in LA for 25 years and the language will not be a huge barrier for me nor the culture. I grew up with Spanish speaking people since I was a kid and took lots of Spanish courses. Not fluent bc I don't use it much but... not intimidated either. I have noticed the FB expat groups are some really nasty critters sometimes and they are always the expats, not the locals...I will probably steer clear of those groups when I get situated.

[@torreykillam1384]

Thank you for the great video. As someone who has longed to relocate to Mexico for many years, there is many factors to consider and I appreciate both of you for your candid insights. A large part of my reasoning for moving to to flee from something: Winter. I don't just not want to see snow again....ever. I don't even want to see it on the discovery channel. I know a great many Canadians see living here as some sort of badge of honor. For me, it is all about pain. I used to enjoy winter activities; however, over the years I have have frostbite in my hands and feet several times to the point where they essentially cease to function at about four degrees above freezing. Coupled with osteoarthritis, winter is synonymous with pain for me. The relief I feel when I travel to Mexico (or anywhere with a similar climate) cannot fully be expressed. I hope that this does not fit into the category you spoke of. We do intend to rent for a year or two at first to ensure that we get beyond the "vacation" feeling, but also to ensure that the location within Mexico is what we are looking for.

[@keikofay9804]

Based on the specifics you gave, my opinion is that they are referring to people who do not take care with diligence research ahead of their move... and they do not oftentimes consider whether they are truly willing and/or able to work on leaving those reasons behind (or will they bring that "baggage" with them). Some people avoid Facebook expat groups, but I would like to suggest joining 2-4 groups that cover the parts of Mexico that you may be interested in. IMO, best is to find groups with a mix of expat/immigrants and locals, and spend a few weeks just on reading and key-word searching the group vs. posting a load of questions (chances are, 90% of your questions have already been answered many times over in the group. The answers are there). If I take the time to look through this stuff, I can then ask better questions. In return, I get nuanced, location-specific answers. And the locals like that and tend to open up more. If you can use a few recommendations on FB groups, feel free to message us (my husband and me) on Messenger. Have a great day.

[@whacked00]

Godspeed Pablo. So nice to find a business person with a heart and integrity that can help people succeed in a difficult transition.

[@kellibush9049]

PERFECT advice! We just moved back from Mexico after 2 1/2 years, biggest mistake we made was BUYING a house...we lost money and spent everything we had. Should have rented.

[@yestohappiness2721]

We are moving back too early next year (will be 2 yrs in Mx). We haven't bought here but we sold our home in the USA and now interest rates and home prices are much higher... also sold our cars (we loved one of them) and now much more expensive to buy. But we don't regret living in MX - we tried and had great weather for 2 years... going back to cold Midwest in a few months! So looking forward to go back home though :).

[@d.f.9064]

I bought a house soon after arriving in Ecuador. I love it and at this point (four years) I don't consider it a mistake. But I got lucky and picked a great community before I knew what I was doing.

[@Joce123]

​@@yestohappiness2721Why are you moving back and to wear in the Midwest?

[@Joce123]

The Mexican government takes 25% of the money from your house sale. The IRS takes a chunk

[@antidote234]

@@Joce123 Even if it is your permanent house without renting it? Also, with RFC number?

[@manliveful]

The magic formula is to go and visit the various areas like on vacation and then if you like it rent first for ashorth period of time and then if you like it depending where you are rent for a longer period of time and by that time you will know if you want to stay on a permanent basis without jumping into something that you might not like or is not for you. This is the most intelligent thing to do; you will save your time and outlay of money and make the most logical decision that can be made.

[@jahnacarlson3528]

Absolutely agree with renting/ long term visiting at different times of the year before immigrating on a permanent basis.

[@Nicole-xd1uj]

I'm always surprised at how little research people do before moving here. None of them seem aware that culture shock exist or that Mexico might do things differently. When people ask for advice, I always recommend reading a few books on the subject before upending their lives as well as watching your videos as they were so helpful for me in my move here and I'm sure this one will help people too. (Had a great conversation about your para/por video in my Spanish class last week and we all agreed that your lessons are brilliant)

[@dianaj3139]

I am at home no matter where I live ... because Quite simply I am there! LOL

[@rmanbike]

I always feel better mentally and physically living in a hot and humid climate, Mexico offers more choices of fresh fruits and vegetables all year round than what you will find in any place in the US, plus at a more affordable price. The availability of seafood is also unmatched. Living close to a ocean also has its benefits, and Mexico has as much coastline as any country in the world. And I think many retirees leave the US because of the high cost-of-living and the assisted living facilities are so much better and much less expensive in Mexico.

[@brettd3206]

I get fed up with the ones who bring USA politics to Mexico. They are still angry at something that has little effect in Mexico.

[@gmm5550]

Seen the same here in se-asia..thats why expats from other country's avoid americans often.

[@d.f.9064]

In Ecuador. I left when DJT was in office. I thought I would be able to forget about it all. I was wrong. What happens in the U.S.A. affects the world. It IS important. I HATE all this drama too, but it can't be ignored and most likely it shouldn't be.

[@gmm5550]

@@d.f.9064 promise you that 90% what happens in the us doesn't affect the world..ONLY 4% of the earth population are Americans

[@anne-marieedwards5776]

Politics prevent people from embracing fully the Mexican (or other) experience. Whatever my leanings were/are, it is good to leave them behind.There’s not a lot you can change. Embrace the changes you can make. If that means going back to the US, then go. Do your good there. I love community where I can connect without the politics.

[@rosanneallen-hewlett9973]

Attention-getters they go. 😂

[@MyWorldofMediumship]

It was hard to move from one part of Canada to the other and it does take time to adjust even in our own 🇨🇦

[@fabtup9611]

I was born in Rome.Italy I lived in California 40+ years since I was 16. I have owned a condo in Cabo since 2012. I had no issues adapting at beginning because many things of the Italian and Mexican culture are similar, it was a breath of fresh air when I first moved there. Nicer people, a sense of community, relaxed lifestyle, adapting wasn't a problem. Cabo reminded me of some Italian beach towns, and when I am in Italy at some beach towns specially in the South, they remind me of Cabo. Spanish was never an issue,I am fluent in Italian and French languages, I picked up Spanish quick. But yes in Summer time I come back here to Santa Monica in California for 2-3 months which is where I am right now.

[@glony01]

Great advice from you both. I moved to Mexico 2 yrs ago and now moving to El Salvador (where I have family at). Have lived in PV for over a year and I can finally say 'its not for me'. Grateful for the lessons (and some of them hard lessons) but my time is up here. Suerte a todo. 🙏

[@ravet3254]

We have been in Mexico for 2 years and love it. Has it been perfect? No, but we did not expect it to be either. The hardest part has been navigation of the government with not great español. After three visits we are usually good to go. We bought our place, and it was a broken dream from someone else. Just need patience to find the deal.

[@catobie1948]

Well, they say, wherever you go you are. If you are unhappy or depressed and think a change of scenery will make you feel differently, it may work for a minute or two, but you have to fix the inside not just the scenery.

[@anneli1735]

🤔 I left heavily depressed the country where I lived the first 65 years of my life. Coming to Mexico changed everything! Never been that relaxed, positiv and cheerful as I am in Mexico! And I‘ve got some ideas because of why that „healing“ took place: the DIFFERENCE in mentality, climate, food supply, culture, language and what not leaving behind a ton of bad experiences and memories 🤷‍♀️

[@thegoldendog7991]

@@anneli1735 I’m glad you found peace! I myself am struggling and I find these “moving to” videos a release. I already speak moderate Spanish and I think that I can make a go of it. My wife is dead set against it though and I understand why. I at least would like to go for a minimum of several months, rent a place and experience the life. You can’t outrun your own head though and if my wife won’t try it, then it simply won’t happen.

[@rmanbike]

Everybody is a real estate agent in Mexico!

[@happyinparadise7812]

Reason to buy from owners directly using a notary.

[@LESHAUNWILL]

😂 lol so true

[@happyinparadise7812]

Ask to see their license. If they don't belong to an accredited association. One word ...Adios

[@Airwavetourist]

Learn the tres A's before you move anywhere :Adjust,Adapt, Accept..

[@stevefritz5182]

Great video. I'm happy to see someone take this on honestly. I belong to multiple facebook groups for expats in my area (BCS). I see so many posts of people saying they are moving to my town and then ask, "what's there?". They are moving with an ideal not reality. What you rarely see in the facebook groups is people admitting that they are unhappy and going back. I just did a reverse drive - from north to south in Spring - and witnessed more than I expected of trucks loaded with a household of goods going north, back to the border. Our introduction to Mexico was to move our South American daughter-in-law from Peru to Mexico to be closer to the USA. The adjustment was easier with Mexico being more advanced than the jungle of Peru or less hectic than Lima. To adjust from the USA to Mexico is a different story. Personally, I didn't come with the expectation to stay. I've been here seven years and have no plan to leave, but I keep one foot in the US, knowing it isn't easy here. Things can happen here that wouldn't happen in the US. All good advice on this video. Don't buy right away. Getting caught up in the hassle of building will burn you out fast. Don't jump into the immigration hassle if you don't need to. Don't sweat the language although you do need to try. And don't expect people on the facebook group to help you find poppyseed salad dressing. It's Mexico. They don't care for poppyseed salad dressing!

[@Maya-uy2xx]

This is a great discussion! It is good to point out that safety is not really one of the reasons, since a lot of people (in the US) still think that Mexico is “not safe”. Most people who have this thinking are people who have never been to Mexico (or Costa Rica, etc)

[@JamesG1126]

Safety is a reason and when you live in Mexico you'll see for yourself.

[@jayman48044]

Great video, Paul. Both you and Pablo, in your speaking, really convey a genuine compassion for the people you are trying to reach, and a passion and domain expertise on the subject matters you discuss. I’ve always appreciated the way your honesty and integrity comes through in your messaging. Cheers.

[@allenfrost2148]

That’s good info for taking a healthy look at your reasons for why you’d want to immigrate. It’s so tempting to jump in with both feet but wise to tiptoe in and test the waters for a year or two. I’ve been struggling with not diving in head first. 🤣 🇲🇽

[@jonmeek3879]

Really enjoyed this, thanks for putting this together

[@dvtco.2545]

My wife and I are going to go temp residency first. 6 months and move around MX and see what and where we would like to possibly settle down. She's close to retirement (in medical field), I'm already there but still working (I love my work). Wife was against relocating to MX but when I told her about temp residency (and her watching these videos), she's onboard with it (Yes!). Took awhile but after seeing what others have done and how long doing it, she's willing now to try it and she speaks much better Spanish than I do. We also just joined the Qroo membership group for learning Spanish at a higher level. MX is a beautiful country, and the people we've met have always been helpful, kind and caring, probably because we treat them the way we want to be treated. We don't want to be considered (pushy, demanding, disrespectful) tourists. We also are not that interested in ex-pat communities but then we haven't been to any yet. We don't want to hear about the drama or keeping the USA lifestyle alive in MX. We want to relax, converse (Spanish/Spanglish) and enjoy a better way of life. We see the future as being wide open and new adventures. Will we permanently move to MX? That's why the "try it before you buy it" is what we think is best to start off with.

[@curtramey913]

Thanks for this! I just joined the México FB group 😊

[@JuanMoreno-wo5yb]

I can not imagine living anywhere in which I don’t speak the language or worse yet, never care to learn. I am 71 and could live in any Spanish speaking country with little to no problem or disadvantage. I have visited 13 Hispanic countries. I was investigating Portugal and I am considering living in Spain more just because Portuguese is tough for me to learn and I want to relax and only have Spanish and a bit of English to rely upon now. ❤ From Spain I can visit Portugal and even have a second home if I like it that much!

[@TheRoadruner123]

You guys are awesome, great video..

[@qroo]

Thanks so much!

[@wadeworth]

Thanks!

[@qroo]

Thank you!

[@user-dt2iq7mq5t]

So good to see you again, Paul. I am still in Playa and miss you and Linda. Nice session with Pablo and good information. Thanks to you both

[@ParisianThinker]

Excellent advise!

[@ElAgaveGuy]

Good info. And we can vouch for Adriana. We used her to get our permanent residency here in the riviera maya.

[@CallowG]

Fortunately for me I have no family or friends keeping me here and I live in a frozen hellhole. If Mexico doesn't work out I can just get on a plane and move to BC without losing anything (if I'm moving back to Canada it won't be to a frozen hellhole).

[@colleenjolicoeur6059]

I’m going to go out on a limb here and guess MB?

[@CallowG]

@@colleenjolicoeur6059Bingo!

[@mamaitaliano9774]

What is MB?

[@giljusino]

I experienced some of the issues you covered when I moved from DC to a small town in FL.

[@rosanneallen-hewlett9973]

It's not hot until you join us in Arizona...like about now! 🌞 🌵

[@alanacollins5685]

I have not yet heard the entire interview but I could not agree more! I actually avoid most other expats because I get so tired of people who ran away from some imaginary oppression rather than being pulled towards something, such as a beautiful culture. There’s a guy who drives around here with Canadian plates and with children, with a F@ck Trudeau sign on his truck. I just want to see that guy and say Dude! Let it go!

[@tandanielle3875]

I totally agree with you. I feel the same way. I don’t want to hear about any of it. I’m trying to move on!

[@DianaM.-ht8ls]

Yes! I also agree - what am wanting to create in my life, rather what am I seeking to leave.

[@jimmccann3856]

You forgot violent crime. Two people I used to play tennis with in Lake Chapala left abruptly: One got carjacked (in his own garage by a pistolero), and the other got home-invaded & kidnapped. Personally, I have been home-invaded twice in the 17 years I have lived in Mexico. If you drink beer at the tennis club, or the American Legion, or hang out at the bridge club, or the Donut shop, or the Lake Chapala Society and just talk to folks, you will hear about several incidents every single year. Paul, shit like that WILL make people move back.

[@KiKiQuiQuiKiKi]

Makes me wonder if the type of people who do not assimilate are targeted…🤔

[@asinglewomanontheloose5590]

@@KiKiQuiQuiKiKiNot so sure about that. A person can assimilate all she wants but will still look American, Canadian. Etc. That alone can target her.

[@jimmccann3856]

@@KiKiQuiQuiKiKi The San Fran guy brought his Lexus to Mexico. Big Mistake. So not assimilated. The other, a superb athlete, played on the best local soccer team and party-hosted his teammates at his Very Nice House in Floresta. Big Mistake. So, assimilated, too much. But same mistake for both: Showing Your Money. But I show Zero (stained T-shirts with armpit holes, $50 bicycle), and that did not help me. See singlewoman comment below...

[@jimmccann3856]

@@asinglewomanontheloose5590 Correct. See my additional comment to Kiki...

[@luyzqint3760]

Go back to a place that is the world's capital of mass shootings, drug addicts, crime and toxic people. Ok, that makes no sense 🤷‍♂️

[@Stevenfrijol]

Many Mexicans I know spend time in both the US and Mexico.

[@user-uq4qe2om5y]

YES, and many many Mexicans lived in the US until they or their parents were deported. Sometimes the people who “lived on the other side” are called pochos, which can be a derogatory term or not depending how it’s used. Probably more than two million Americans (like us) live 3-6 months in Mexico each year - making sure to stay less than 183 days in the calendar year because they’ll likely not be sucked into the mexican income tax system then. There is an intricate an d overwhelming interlocking of people and culture and commerce between these countries, even more so near the border, with a whole bilingual bicultural society of people who live substantially in both countries, or who commute from one country to the other.

[@d.f.9064]

Pablo Arias, a great guest, I would use his service.

[@philiphowell1505]

Love to all from my home of seven wonderful years, from a small town, the EU and Gran Canaria, learn the language, integrate, pay ALL your taxes and enjoy a civilized life.

[@300rivers4]

We're still here in the states, but are considering that move. Going to come down later in the year for a month long visit and check it out. People need to seriously remember that Mexico is not the u.s. You can't change where ever you're going so don't try.

[@juancortez4726]

Thank you for your information... thinking about retiring in Mexico... we'll love to talk to Pablo one day... !

[@TravelDiva61]

This is a perfect interview! I did approximately 3 plus years of research on where I want to be and why... I moved here to Costa Rica, January 2023 with Sarah Elena's help, renting and exploring before buying. I'm happy in my decision 😊 However, I encounter people from all walks of life who have come here, either bought a house flat out or rented... some say they're bored (imagine that), some say they have not adjusted to the culture, some say they miss their family. Some constantly complain about Costa Rica’s culture! I also feel that a lot of expats are running away from something. My motto is "everywhere you go, there you are"...I made sure way before coming here that my "WHY" was solid before selling my possessions and my house... I made sure to communicate with my family... I made sure that I am willing to continue my spanish to immerse here... and adapt to this beautiful country. I have even been approved for residency here and I am eternally happy to make any adjustments to be in my new country. 😊🇨🇷

[@mamaitaliano9774]

I heard there's a lot of petty theft and home invasions there. Why people left Costa Rica.

[@sandrabedard7848]

Pura Vida 😊 welcome to CR

[@whacked00]

Fantastic video. So important to know who you are and work on yourself. IF retiring it takes time and forethought to decide what kind of life you want and rethink who you are and what you want to be. Going from a career to retirement and 60 hour work weeks in Chicago to the countryside in Mexico with nothing to do is a recipe for failure.

[@Kathryn551]

Pablo is awesome:) I hope I meet many people like Pablo when I become an immigrant in Mexico:) I just put my Intention out there...

[@jenifertravelssolo5387]

Going on 3 years in Mexico and have no desire to back up there right now. I suspect when my health fails me I might need to.

[@manueljnegrete5048]

Hello Paul, Paul is right on as to people moving. I was a realtor for years and my observation was that a percentage of home buyers are having marriage issues and think a new home is going to fix things and it only makes things worse. Thank you for this excellent subject.

[@colleenpurcha8821]

Our dream is to move to Mexico in 9 years. We are just starting our research on EVERYTHING, lots of questions. Yearly visits and not to the tourist areas. Starting to learn Spanish. We want to make sure this is what we want. Cross the t’s and dot the i’s

[@meatgravylard]

Another reason is they feel like leaving. Most of the gringos I've known in my years of living in Yucatan are people of means and can make that choice easily without having any issues mentioned by broke and triggered KZbin comment section addicts. We've been here fifteen years and have stayed because we wat to, and would leave for no other reason. It's a big world, we can move almost anywhere in it, that would be a reason.

[@ltdodgen]

I think we’re a small percentage of the population, lucky enough to do just that.

[@wasabiginger6993]

I lived in Alamos Sonora for one Winter. At first I hated it but then slowly feel in love with the people & culture. I live Hawai'i, which has it's own issues but it's HOME.

[@richardhart6548]

Good information. Thanks Pablo and Paul. Paul I hope this question is not too personal but I been wondering why you moved back to the USA.

[@richardg8651]

Great advice to rent before buying. People are way too impulsive.

[@belliott4844]

Tamarindo Rich in Costa Rica warns of this!

[@r-cdmx]

I do find it interesting how there’s no American neighborhoods outside of the U.S. But every foreign country has a neighborhood in the U.S.

[@elginb]

One can find just about every US fast food restaurant around the world, which are the symbols of American neighborhoods. So no need to feel nostalgic about American culture when trotting the globe. Just pop in a Starbucks and make yourself at home.

[@theladygeorge]

Maybe because there was the Red Line real estate agents lived by. Immigrants where internally not sold homes or could rent in other neighborhoods. It’s against the law now but the damage is done. And one of the favorite and first moves “expats” do is build a golf course and a gated community in the countries they go to.

[@jahnacarlson3528]

Some people are most comfortable in a chaos environment (lots of change and transitions).

[@ParisianThinker]

Lovely man & one I would do business with if he could move me out of France.

[@matthewbaker5084]

Yikes... something to think about. My wife is mexican and we are moving there in June. We have a 6 apartment building already and a house in a small town. I hope I'm making the right move.

[@pattiarmstrong5583]

No the must frustrating thing for me is to find the most basic things like now finding CoQ10 or u get the drift but not enough for me to move back, that being said the housing prices r ridiculously high that is often too much

[@allisa-vi7lp]

Do many people return because of crime and/or feeling unsafe? I apologize if you mentioned this.

[@rochelleglam]

What about shipping to Colombia 🇨🇴?

[@cynthiapittman1236]

😊

[@alalesc3796]

In general Mexico is still the best country in Latin America to move to and one of the best in the world!😀

[@jj-bp3fr]

In general as a mexican I can say I'll never trust a central or south American, we learned the hard way in mexico.

[@pawsitiveleader8710]

I understand that immigration changes and the government wants proof of income and savings... But can I work in-person in Mexico as an American?

[@MaryGwenDungan]

Yes, you can. If by in-person you mean as an employee of a Mexican company, you'll need a work visa. If you mean as a digital nomad, you won't, nor will you have to pay taxes.

[@charmainejones2284]

How can I get in touch with Pablo?

[@takencareofbidness]

One word - Grandkids!

[@randyross9426]

We are trying to decide the best choice about buying a car and bringing to Mexico or buying in Mexico?? We own a home in Cajititlan. Any advice?

[@qroo]

If you have residency in Mexico, my advice is always to buy in Mexico. The reasons are too numerous to list in this comment. ;)

[@randyross9426]

@@qroo thanks much

[@randyross9426]

BTW, we have temporary residency

[@kellyname5733]

You are going to have to do a ton of research and learn all the caveats. Everybody that has researched this issue says by the time they pay all the imports it is not worth bringing your car.

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

On a Temporary Resident Visa you can drive your foreign plated car for up to four years before having to sell it or import it. You need to get a TIP (temporary import permit) outside of Baja and the money you spend on that is refundable when you leave to sell it in the US. I would say keep it until then because you may decide you don't really need a car after you move here. I brought my car down to Baja with me and very rarely drive it around town. I still like to go remote beach camping and surfing so I am glad to have the option. I will probably always own a car here because of the freedom it offers to just get up and go somewhere with out any hassles. BTW- I understand they will be changing the laws to make it easier and less expensive to import your car.

[@Joyexpanded]

Nobody mentioned the lack of ability to drive safely and park at a trailhead and hike with your kids without thinking about the unthinkable… everything from car broken into (or insane car accident) to kidnapping at gunpoint. I have lived in MX for 2 years and have 3 girls- one of which is Mexican. My husband and I don’t feel comfortable driving across the country and I can’t take my kids for a hike by myself between the dogs and people. I love our community, but I can’t do two things that I love- travel and spend time in nature. We RV’d full time in the US national parks for 2 years and it was amazing. I would never do that in MX. It’s not safe.

[@JamesG1126]

The only way to get outside and exercise safely in Mexico is to live in a gated community and use trails inside the community. Definitely agree it's not safe to drive long distances and go hiking in Mexico.

[@monicarowe7915]

It’s one of the reasons I’m spending less time in Mexico as I miss the roadtrips, long walks and hikes in nature- You just feel free, safe and mixed in with other people who enjoy the same.

[@rmanbike]

@@JamesG1126 m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYDVXn6eYqZ6p5o&pp=ygURSWNoeSBib290cyBtZXhpY28%3D

[@tonynes3577]

It's funny I moved from Canada to USA for my job career, and to escape the bad weather and it was no problem. Then I bought a small condo in Cabo, Mexico but that's all. I love the Mexican culture and people but I think I will not live there, not full time anyway. I'm single maybe I'll meet a Mexican lady. Hopefully not to be scammed.

[@happyinparadise7812]

I married a Beautiful Yucateca. 8 years ago. We are living the dream! In Mérida.

[@kenjohnson4423]

I gave up US citizenship in 2019, my last tax return was 2018, i never been happier. The best part, no more 1040 forms, i live free. keep all my money, well i pay some taxes, thats ok, i like police and fire. I moved to California, the weather is beautiful. I ain't neva going back to the Unites States ever again, except when i visit the National Parks.

[@chasingtheAmericanDream]

Since you gave up US citizenship, do you have another citizenship?

[@anneli1735]

🤔 you moved to California - that’s in the United States mate! Maybe you want to say „Baja California“ which is Mexico?

[@erikdominguez923]

@@anneli1735 and I quote: California is Mexico. Roffl

[@geanitsucuneli4791]

Guys as far as I know in Mexico is not very expensive ....when is coming to pay out of pocket! In USA the insurance ,doesn't cover 100%.So you have to pay a lot out of pocket.I am telling you from our own experience.We went in India for an operation .Was cheaper then our copay in USA.Implant in Mexico are very ,very cheap.In USA $2700 for a molar.So is not a big different !

[@jerrysegal2903]

love mexico. the climate, people, culture. my only concern is that as a 79 year old person, if a serious medical codition happens, I want to be in the states. I know there are good hospitals, doctors, surgeons in mexico but i believe the most up to date fcilities and equipment are in the states. If or when i learn different, I would be living in mexico right now.

[@kellyname5733]

@@jerrysegal2903 Ever herd of medical tourism in Mexico? People from around the world have been going to Mexico to get superior medical treatment since the 1950's. The only downside to going to another country for medical treatments is you have no recourse if things go bad. Mexico has cutting edge medical treatments with the latest equipment. Doctors in Mexico still do house calls and will give you their cell # if you need to contact them. Many, many doctors go to medical school in Mexico because the cost is way less. Then they practice in their home country, usually the USA/Canada and some go home to Europe or...they stay in Mexico.

[@sallylee6934]

We would love to move to Mexico but the government is making it too hard for us who don't have the income required for them when here in Canada we have enough to maintain our house and living. It would be nice if the lower it so we can sell our house and rent something nice along the coast.

[@MaryGwenDungan]

There are a few channels that address that problem. Jose Arteaga Travels is one and Mexican Relocation is another. There are ways around it, at least for some people.

[@sallylee6934]

@@MaryGwenDungan yes there are ways around it by buying property but not everyone can do that.

[@MaryGwenDungan]

@@sallylee6934 There's another loophole for people who have been travelling to Mexico during a certain timeframe, basically the last several years. No proof of financial "suitability" required. Mexico Relocation and Jose Arteaga Travels has covered it.

[@user-uq4qe2om5y]

Start with temporary residence, as the proof-of-income or proof-of-liquid-savings requirements are getting higher for temp residency but nowhere near as extremely high as permanent residence. We were lucky to get permanent residence without proof of income or savings after my wife gave birth in Mexico - we applied from inside Mexico, which is allowed for such so-called Family Unit Residencia Permanente applications.

[@DenLD]

I love living here. I can’t wait to nationalize in a couple of years.

[@user-uq4qe2om5y]

You’re going to place people’s assets under federal government ownership? ;) The word you wanted is “naturalized.”

[@danielb516]

i would only do the move for the winters . live in the northeast so the snow bird thing appeals to me .

[@user-uq4qe2om5y]

If you’re looking for warm to hot winters, tens of millions of Mexicans live in places that will not fit the bill: Mexico City with 20-million-plus people and the Pacific coast of Baja CA (at least norte), which are consistently cooler than people realize. But if you need warm to hot winters, sure, they’ve got that too.

[@espartaco2028]

My student of English in Lima, Perú taught me so much about being human. I’m sorry all I could give him was help getting his Cambridge C1. Perú, at that time, seemed like a perfect place to live. Wow! The culinary capital of SA, people dying to learn English, etc. «You would hate it here, Merréll», he kept telling me. One reason I chose Spain was the perception of racism. It is literally impossible to be South of the Border and not have many someones at all times seeing you as, call you as, accusing you of being «an Imperial, gentrification racist». They even make up new words to accuse you of stuff. Truth is, I have zero times, with that one student exception, where a Latino didn’t offer me sex in exchange for a chance to come to the States or to send them money. The poverty is pure desperation and the people are risking death to leave where Americans are trying to go. There is intense resentment, envy, and adverse hardship with nearly a guarantee of theft and possibly violent crime. People don’t understand how desperate and dangerous Latin America, including Mexico is.

[@mellamodiego8458]

There are definitely a segment of people who are like this. Most are not. But I did notice they get paid very little down there and I immediately understood why they are risking their lives to cross the border. I thought to myself if I was doing what they were doing I would leave for the USA immediately

[@DanielGomez-jk6bv]

Immigrant, the proper term for a person who moves to another country other than the one they were born, they are immigrants I was born and raised in Mexico, moved to the US over thirty years ago, if I start saying I am a Mexican ex-pat, let's face it, I would sound ridiculous, I am an immigrant.

[@mylene_b]

I completely agree with you, I'm Canadian and I live in Canada. I'm tired of Canadians, Americans and Europeans going to the Global South saying they're expats. They're not expats. They're immigrants. Period. It doesn't even matter if they're permanent or temporary immigrants, they're still immigrants

[@SteveFelt67]

I love coming to Baja, Mexico in the winter in my RV and go back to the US for the summer to escape the heat and humidity. I’m still camped on the beach but it’s getting hot now.

[@user-uq4qe2om5y]

Not all that much heat in Rosarito and Playas de Jardines de Tijuana, though, even in the summer.

[@gecko2000405]

Excellent video Paul. Question: Can you do a video of about people who want a job or side hustle in Mexico or another country? I know Mexico has Visa laws like most countries that forbid foreigners from holding a job over a Mexican. I work for a Sheriff's Office in Florida much like you did. I'm worried about being bored out of my mind once I leave the States, but don't really want to hold out for the DROP program with my employer. Hopefully, that would be a good video.

[@Anonymint-vj7bt]

Grass is always greener on the other side of the mountain, until you get there. There is no perfect fantasy place. You will miss many things. You had better be very sure about the reasons you are moving, and that they outweigh the tradeoffs. Also for sure moving an entire family or couple, is especially fraught especially you are not retired (i.e. do not depend on your local activities/infrastructure, etc) and know each other very well.

[@clarencehammer3556]

I have always wanted to at least spend some time in another country and I think instead of a permanent move it would be better to only make a temporary move for maybe six month maximum and then decide whether to stay or not. But no such move is possible for me now. My main reason for wanting to spend time in a Spanish speaking country is for Spanish immersion. And for that the country of my dreams is Spain. But that can never happen. I’m too old and too poor and have so many obligations here so I could not ever disconnect from my life here much less establish myself elsewhere.

[@ltdodgen]

😢

[@mylene_b]

I did Spanish immersion for free from the comfort of my home in Canada. I watched Spanish novelas on KZbin (back then I didn't have a Netflix subscriptions), completed physical grammar books and signed up on websites and apps like Tandem and hello talk to practice with native speakers.

[@user-uq4qe2om5y]

Excuses. Just get going.

[@michelle-pt2vk]

Don't understand all their relocations, hugh

[@kellyname5733]

Many folks are 'locked' into Mexico because they spent all their money on a house, car and other things. They could leave for another country or go back to their home country but they would take a huge financial loss.

[@monicarowe7915]

Absolutely

[@thegoldendog7991]

I think that renting for a while is the best option, unit you’re sure about where you want to live, or even to stay.

[@user-uq4qe2om5y]

You assume that everyone leaving will sell his or her home at a loss. Why do you assume that?

[@d.f.9064]

Good advice, wait two years before you get too settled. Rent, investigate, learn the language. Politics: from the U.S. to Ecuador! Yes, i didn't know what I was in for. But because all the things I DID know about Ecuador keep me here. It is the people that make or break the quality of life. Could you be homeless, poor, begging in the street and live or would you die? The people in Ecuador would feed me, would help me. Side note: After four years the only people I have trouble with are gringos from the US.

[@brettd3206]

A friend lost his home in Durango to his ex-wife and her familia.

[@luyzqint3760]

Hey, Paul. Nice to see you again. In my opinion, those who are going back to their country or move to another country, did not do their homework; they usually don't know that the Mexican culture is in many ways, the opposite of the US and Canada. In Mexico we love music, parties, people, and we love the way we live - for the most part -, and those who complain about anything, are usually the ones that don't like, loud music, parties, be around people, and some want to change the way we live. In doing so, they created friction between Mexicans and foreigners from the US and Canada that live in Mexico and like Mexico the way it is. If you pay attention, some of the same problems exist in Panama, Ecuador, Colombia, Portugal, Spain and pretty much every where they moved to. At the end of the day, they will leave and we, Mexicans and those who like Mexico, will be happier ✌️

[@stevefritz5182]

I don't know how much of what I am to say is real versus perspective. It would appear Mexico has changed a lot in the seven years I have been here. Mexico used to have an appeal for being somewhat "lawless", in that people didn't care what you did or where you went. Nowadays, I hear more and more about immigration crackdowns and crackdowns on cars (you need to match residency to the car you are driving). It used to be you came here because it was cheap. Now, only Californians might think it cheap. There has been a great deal of inflation and the Peso is strong. Buying and living here is equivalent to much of the USA. I hear more anti-gringo talk. People use the terms gentrification and colonization more - both terms being used improperly, but still used to stir dislike for foreigners. Maybe if I just stay out of facebook none of this would matter. I would be blissfully unaware as I sit in my very comfortable backyard watching palm trees sway.

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

Don't believe everything you hear. I live like a Rey on less than $1200us per month in one of the more expensive places to live in Mexico. That includes private insurance. For any thing small it's easily affordable to just pay out of pocket. I got my teeth cleaned last week for $30.00us. An avocado costs around $0.44us and a liter of fresh squeezed organic juices runs about $2.00us. After surfing a couple hours this morning on the walk home I had a lunch of freshly caught fish tacos con todo for $27 pesos or around $1.58us each. When I got home I took a short siesta in my palm frond covered rooftop hammock overlooking the ocean while listening to the muffled sound of a mariachi concert at the distant beach malecon. Buena suerte!

[@davidcryer2413]

Can you share with me Pablo email address, my wife and i live in Puerto Vallarta and looking to move back to Canada.

[@DrAJ_LatinAmerica]

Yes, rent the house, rent the girl friend, buy used car..... Yes have seen many people go back when they have a issues with cartels. Be VERY careful in the coffee, avocado, mining, jewelry, bars and import / export businesses