10 Things I love about living in Mexico | San Cristobal de las Casas Chiapas Expat Life

[@Juanvaldez-u5j]

Go Girl! My wife and I are old so were are a bit hesitant to do what you've done. We're proud of you.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Aww thank you! It's never too late! It may be a great time for a change. 😊

[@AUTHORJohnMartinson]

Mexico treats the elderly better than the USA. I lived there for seven years. I'm going back. The USA is too expensive, and treats males as second-class citizens.

[@sklanguage589]

The cost of living caught my attention! Sounds perfect for retirement or working for an American company online.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

It certainly is!

[@JuanSanchez-nn1db]

Heading to San Cristobal next month. Thanks for your advice

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Enjoy!!

[@JuanSanchez-nn1db]

@@EricaRayLanguage 🙏

[@JuanSanchez-nn1db]

@@EricaRayLanguage Just like any city or town you have your good and not so good places. Any suggestions of areas for renting or maybe purchasing?

[@bethanybaker7791]

ok. I just paused the video. $175?! My guess was $500, my hub said $600. Then you said $175. My husband laughed out loud and I cussed hard. $175? What am I doing with my life? LOLOLOL! Ok I'll watch the rest of the video now and try to not cry myself to sleep tonight.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Haha! The exchange rate has been favorable too for those who earn in dollars and it has been for years now. When we came a dollar was worth 12 pesos and now it's worth 20.

[@acajudi100]

There have been rooms for $50.oo per month.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

True!

[@darkbuddha3307]

@@EricaRayLanguage How much do you think for a smaller simple home? I will be moving alone. Like $100 USD potentially?

[@EricaRayLanguage]

$100 may be pushing it. But it's possible. It will vary so much just according to the location and what's available, maybe even on how much Spanish you speak or if you get a local to go ask for you so that you don't get the foreigner price tag tacked on. In any case, it's often best to budget higher and then be pleasantly surprised if you find something less expensive. We got a good deal on this place so if we were to move somewhere else in the local area, I would probably budget at $250 USD (5000 mxn) and then be happy if it's less :)

[@susanmcnally6408]

Thanks for your sharing your experience in San Cris. I’m a Californian who is looking for a friendly community in Mexico and San Cris weather sounds great for me plus I like the idea of finding a way to help the indigenous peoples there if I could. I’m an artist and I’m tired of the lack of openness in my small city in a rural region. Born in New York and grew up in LA so I want freedom of self expression. Thanks again

[@harrymadray6362]

You and your beloved family seem so happy in Mexico! Thank you so much for your important information about living in Beautiful Mexico!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

You're very welcome!

[@actionjackson5759]

Erica Ray, Hi there, Please do a dedicated cost of living video for us.

[@yellowbubblequeen]

You got me thinking of emigrating!! I’d love to see a cost of living video! -Shalishah

[@EricaRayLanguage]

OK awesome!

[@BoydJones]

Yes, please! Dedicated cost-of-living videos would be much appreciated!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I'm working on it now! Coming soon. :)

[@ashleyshante6362]

Also I felt the WARMTH from the doctors and everyone in your birth photo 😭😭 LOVE IT!!!!!! ❤️

[@EricaRayLanguage]

🤗Yes, it was a nice experience. ❤️

[@annastayziaa]

the medical care satisfaction and pricing you mentioned gives me so much peace of mind . Tysm

[@La-zs7tg]

San Cris is an amazing city! I really enjoyed spending time there.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

It is!

[@PriceGroove]

Your channel is a Godsend!! It’s smart and informative without being annoying. I’m really considering San Cristobal now!!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thank you! Glad you're enjoying the channel.

[@ashleyshante6362]

I appreciate this video so much! Having been in the country so long, being married to a Mexican man, and being fluent in Spanish really gives your perspective great value to me as it's clear you really integrated into the experience!! I would love to see ALLLLL the videos you mentioned and also one about dating in Mexico!! Im currently learning spanish and getting a solid stream of income online as I prepare to take the leap. Thank you so much for sharing! #newsubbie 🤗❤️

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Awesome and welcome! Well I can do all of those videos except dating in Mexico because since I was already married when I moved to Mexico I have no experience there.😂

[@ashleyshante6362]

@@EricaRayLanguage Awe shucks. Haha! Well, I'll take what you can give! 😊🙏🏾

[@sliggon8892]

I am so excited to have stumbled upon your video. I and my family are moving to Chiapas and really taking in this information organized and laid out is helpful. I would love to hear about having a baby in Chiapas. Yes a break down of how you found the property you live in. Have you thought about purchasing? WHy or Why not?

[@ZaBuZaMoMoChi86]

Finally moving to Mexico after a 4 weeks trip in Chiapas this summer... 💪🏻💪🏻 If by any chance you'll be hanging around San Cristóbal con tu marido,nos tomamos un cafecito y charlamos un rato! Gracias por compartir este vídeo con todas estas buena herramientas,un saludo desde Italia!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Qué emocionate! Me alegro por ti!

[@findingmytribe]

The weather sounds Fabulous!!! 🙌🏾🌟

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Yes! I love it. I only complain during December and January when it's too cold for my taste. Haha!

[@juanhernandezsantiago9376]

Hi, Erica. I think you guys make a good couple. You guys live in chiapas. I am from Oaxaca neighboring state. Living in u.s. I am moving back to Oaxaca pretty soon for good. Erica, I have a question for you how did you learn Spanish? Your Spanish is better than my Spanish. God bless you and your family. I am not surprised that you like Mexico at all..

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Awesome! Welcome home! Here are the videos about how I learned Spanish. :) kzbin.info/aero/PLHm6cDu7EjUDit_2tMnYOQzeVGihsY2V2 AND kzbin.info/www/bejne/emiofHmvn6uFfcU

[@joseizaguirre4887]

En Uruapan Michoacán.the rent are same like I'm chiapas for a house..around 2.000 pesos..

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Amazing! Thanks for sharing!

[@raineynight]

I've always wanted to move south, way south. I'm constantly looking at expat videos. Thank you so much for this info. Also, your spanish videos are wonderful. New subscriber.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Welcome and thanks so much! 🤗

[@acajudi100]

Thank you for sharing. I love the beautiful Acapulco since 1962, and earthquakes were the deal breakers for not retiring there. Stay blessed always.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

❤️

[@tiffanyr-jester1557]

Im glad a ran across your page. You make it sound so much better then what was in my head.

[@lance7607]

I'm going to San Cristobal de las Casas in mid-January 2024 (if I have all my duckies in a row by then). This video is informative and although it's two years old, it gives very specific and practical information. Thanks! I shall subscribe. I hope to settle there but I'm taking a trip first to check things out. Of course, if I really like it I might just not leave!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Hope you enjoy it!!

[@lalabarry4096]

I just made a Native friend that sparked my interest about this place. Im intrigued to say the least. So glad I found you💯

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Awesome!

[@Mary-od4gi]

Loved your video...very informative. I dont want yo live in touristy area as well as expats. So thanks again. Keep up the good work.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@VentanitaDeAdonai]

I’m so grateful your video showed up in my feed! I’m actually Mexican having lived my whole life in the US but now wanting to move back. I’ve been thinking of moving to San Cristobal. I’ve never been there but my sister in law says it’s pretty and the weather as your described is perfect to me.🥰 I’m having a hard time convincing my husband though because he’s worried about us not being able to support ourselves. Your video was so helpful though! Thank you so much!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

You're so welcome! Yes, I always recommend finding work online. That's what I've always done since I've been in Mexico. :)

[@JonathanESmithOfficial]

Can you do a video on how to move there as a single person? I’m coming in September and I want to stay in a local area where I can learn Spanish, but I’m single with no pets. Solo yo!

[@EduardoTorres-pf5kc]

Bendiciones .. god bless all u family .. y mi compa take care u woman .. saludos desde Texas

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thank you!

[@yolandas211]

Can you please do a cost of living video? By the way, I love your videos! I'm starting to learn Spanish and your videos have been so helpful. Thank you!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Will do! And I'm so happy to hear that! 🤗

[@susanmcmanus664]

San cristobal was great. I recently came back home to the UK but if you've been around 7 years then for sure way may have seen eachother around san cristobal de las casas! Thank you very much for the video, getting emotional wishing i could still be back over there.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I bet we have run into each other! 😊

[@canadianqueen76]

Yes, Kentucky weather is so unpredictable. 😆

[@EricaRayLanguage]

You ain't lyin'! 😅

[@Amarillobymorning777]

Queen: in North Texas , we can have the whole four seasons of the year in a single day. Including snow. That's crazy

[@paulbucklebuckle4921]

Very interesting, I want to visit , might be for me . 👍😎

[@karelfagan6846]

Yes to more cost of living info. Thanks.

[@MNDanno]

I've watched zillions of these vids. Really nice job Erica!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I appreciate it!!

[@jeffpf38]

Love this video! So informative and interesting!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Glad you enjoyed it!!

[@soulquesthealingmusic2307]

Great video, especially how you broke down the costs. I backpacked to San Cristobal in 1983 (you can be shocked), plan to return next year long term. I'm an old geezer now, but I remember I enjoyed my stay.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

How cool! I hope you enjoy your trip back! 😃

[@tonyramirez4058]

I like your sense of humor

[@gm-qn8ri]

Run that by me again did you say $175.00 USD per month for a 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath rooftop and garage condo .Bless your heart Dear, because they are killing us out here in the USA with rental and Housing prices.You are a smart woman,you have to get away from touristy and large expat areas to find awesome housing prices like yours. Congratulations

[@EricaRayLanguage]

So true and thank you. I hope you get to experience the same if it's something that you desire! :)

[@marydavis7978]

Townhouse!

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

Lived briefly in the US and one thing I noticed immediately was how clueless so many Americans are and due to programming and the provincial media there haven't a clue. I can't see why anyone who could move elsewhere for better quality of life would stay in the US. It's such a stressful toxic culture.

[@Ajuwah]

Truth.

[@jaxxon98]

Great video. So informative, so many things about Mexico that I never knew. Thank you!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

You're very welcome! Glad it was helpful.

[@JRosemarieonPurpose]

Perfect weather for me.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I love it!

[@charmainehicks9632]

Fantastic video! You've given me a lot to think about! We've lived in different countries, and as we get closer to retiring, MX is looking very doable! Thanks!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

My pleasure! Glad it was helpful.

[@JordanMoyerFit]

We have the same saying about the weather in Edmonton 😅😅

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Haha!!

[@lucianacosta3904]

It's an amanzing video, thanks for sharing with us.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

My pleasure!

[@cherylswisher6688]

This video is excellent. You really cover everything. I am learning Spanish now, so thank you for posting Spanish courses opportunities.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SpockMonroe]

Re: Healthcare in Mexico: I go to the public system -- under the Seguro Popular -- and have experienced all the same benefits of doctor's who are great and care about you in such a warm and human way and it is free.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

That's fantastic! What state do you live in?

[@SpockMonroe]

@@EricaRayLanguage I live in Baja. Ensenada. I have been here for some six years and spent three in Tijuana. I have never been to Mexico proper or any exotic place, but being poor and living in the neighborhoods with the people I have learned a bit and so benefitted. Where do you live? To access medical benefits, get a driver's license, and or work/open a business, one needs to obtain one's permanent or temporary residence. I took advantage of the Amnesty program for Americans who had been living here "illegally." Otherwise, dependent upon the services offered -- and thanks to AMLO they have increased significantly -- one can do well. I found out about this while watching AMLO's "Conferencia Matutina." This daily conference of a President taking the time to speak to the nation has helped me quite a bit in learning about Mexico. Also, his slow, articulated manner of speaking is excellent for this Spanish student's comprehension. Glad to hear you are having a positive experience here. I have not returned to the States and hope I never have to. I look forward to visiting your program and soon, starting or collaborating upon one of my own. Cheers.

[@keeperofmyhome]

Wow!! Love it!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thank you! ☺️

[@Lumieredumonde-x]

Holà Erica ! Bueno, voy a intentar escribir este comentario en español, sera una buena oportunidad de practicar 😅 Me encanta mucho tu canal. Lo he descubierto hace algunos días. Soy curiosa, podrías hacer vídeos sobre tu experiencia en México [as a foreigner, and as a black woman specifically] ? Much love from France ☺️❤️

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Muchas gracias! Qué bien que te están ayudando los videos ☺️ Sí claro, tengo tu idea en mi lista. Lo haré lo mas pronto posible. Gracias de nuevo! 😁

[@gtr5racer]

Bravo señora, bravisimo! Excellent effort.

[@theblackmigotbm7501]

Hola Jo Mones como estas ... Parece que eacribes bien ...

[@iamwombmyn]

Subbed and contracting you for teaching!

[@denisemcbrayer523]

Hola! I'm just discovering you and just ran across this video and loved it! I so wish I could talk to you directly. I will try and go to your blog and see if I can connect there. Thanks so much and thanks for keeping it real! 😊

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@denisemcbrayer523]

@@EricaRayLanguage Yes, and I just recently realized that we are sisters, so even more so look forward to connecting! 🤗

[@dwalker6868]

Thank you

[@darias71]

me encanto tu canal, llegue aqui por este video. y me encanto como hablaste de Sancris, yo vivo aqui tambien, tengo mas de 10 años viviendo aqui, pero tengo como 34 de venir. en encanto tu canal y cualquier cosa que quieras saber sobre lo que pensamos los Mexicanos sobre Sancris, con gusto te puedo ayudar... pero como ya tienes mucho tiempo viviendo aqui, pues ya no hay mucho que te pueda colaborar. en fin, encantado de conocer tu canal y estare atento a tus nuevos videos!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Muchísimas gracias por el lindo comentario! ☺️

[@lvncsr6166]

Just found your channel! I definitely would love to live in San Cristobal because of exactly what you said, not so 'touristy'. And you have such a beautiful home:) I want to relocate and settle in permanently as you have. And what you pay for rent? OMG!!! That would be such a blessing especially with my only income of SS. Yes, please, do a video on All costs and where one could find a nice place on/near the beach. Hoping to be there very soon.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Welcome! Your plans sound exciting! Yes, I will be doing that video ASAP. :)

[@rosaglem1905]

Thank you for this video, I am looking into staying in the area for an extended period of time, this sounds like just the area of Mexico, I was looking for. I've stayed in Quintana Roo for a year in 2020 and again for 3 months 2020 - 2021, loved my time there, but, the weather was unbearable most of the time. Hope to be in SCris sometime this coming May.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I hope you enjoy it!

[@actionjackson5759]

Erica Ray Mrs Ray, please do a dedicated cost of living video and tour of the food markets and restaurants and wonderful sights and things to do Please. Thank you for your videos, I'm trying to learn Spanish, it may take me years but I'm watching your videos and taking your advice on learning Spanish, CONGRATULATIONS 👏 ON YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND LIVING IN A NEW COUNTRY, I WOULD LIKE TO LIVE IN A SPANISH FOR A YEAR OR TWO FOR EXPLORATION AND ENJOYMENT. THANKS AGAIN 😊, 🤝🏽

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I'll do my best! To be honest, we've mainly been going out only for essentials during the pandemic. It has hit hard here again. But as soon as I can I will do more tour around Mexico videos. :)

[@retireforlesscr5871]

Your credibility is very high, because you've lived in Mexico for 7 years and you're married to a Mexican, so you know. The only caveat is you're young so you're probably healthy as opposed to retirees such as myself who might need more medical attention. If you remember we live in Oaxaca and we moved to Oaxaca from Costa Rica after 12 years. I don't know why you don't have more subscribers as your credibility is very high. I don't like it when young people who have been there for a few months try to tell me how it is. They have no credibility with me

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Haha, yes, we have been here for a while. But you're right. Our experience will be unique to us and all who come will need to find their own way. But I do find it helpful and interesting to see how other expats here in Mexico, of all ages, are living. :)

[@rubylimey7614]

Im surprised your numbers are not higher..i just found you n im very impressed with your teaching style...loved the" real world" Spanish

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thank you and welcome! ☺️

[@maigematthews5620]

Hey Erica, I would love to see a medical cost and care video. I think you have a lot of viewers looking to retire and would love to know more about that. Also, it'll so cute to see a child birth video. Especially if you have some tips on how to prepare before, during and after we give birth. Thanks!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thanks so much for the input!

[@aurorarene9909]

I love how they present mexico as this utopia. I up and moved to hermosillo Mexico because I too wanted to live nicely. Me and my mexican boyfriend had a 1bdrm for a nice $150 a month with a dormitory small refridge, a hot plate for a stove (can only cook one thing at a time), had to wash my clothes by hand and the biggest bonus was the water was shut off at 12pm everyday and turned back on at 6am the next day. We kept a garbage can with water in it to use thru the day. Never kk eft home without a roll of toilet paper. Stores or restaurants didn't have this in restrooms. I was not living in an area with tourists either and experienced alot of loneliness, unfriendliness, and finger pointing because I was black and in that town they're not use to seeing us.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

So sorry you had a bad experience. We've never rented anywhere that was furnished (meaning that appliances don't come w the place either) but I actually like that better because we've purchased our own appliances to our liking (refrigerator, stove, washer/dryer). But maybe you were just staying temporarily and may have done better with a place that already had those things. We lived in one place without washer/dryer hookups and would use the laundromat. That gets pricey over time but it was nice to drop off clothes and get them returned washed, dried, and folded for a reasonable price (I think like $3?). True about some public restrooms not having toilet paper but with kids I always have some baby wipes with me anyway. Haha. The loneliness sounds like the worst. So sorry about that. Do you speak Spanish? People stare at me too but I've not usually experienced negative stares.

[@aurorarene9909]

@@EricaRayLanguage thanks for your informative video. Great you had a better experience in your area. I have been to different parts of mexico and first fell in love with it when I studied Spanish at the Autonomous Univ. In guadalajara. I loved it ever since. It's funny but I went with a group of white women and the Mexican men were fascinated by me and the women in my group were surprised. I felt like a queen, but when I came back to the US, reality set back in that I was not special...lol...Been to puerto vallarta, guanajuato, puebla and other areas. It's so much culture there and the food alone makes me want to go back. I've been told by mexicans that I speak very good spanish. My boyfriend didn't know English so I was happy to let him teach me spanish. Luckily I knew some before we met. I love puerto vallarta, but too many Americans there. But I found myself returning 3times. I plan to visit other areas. I won't let that one area discourage me from returning to mexico.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Lovely to hear your story and I'm so glad that you won't let that experience discourage you! ☺️

[@harlyredhonda9938]

Wow sxb I can’t believe it ! I was searching Spanish teachers and saw your review of rocket Spanish and other videos. I’ve been to sxb half a dozen times I have a bike there (motorcycle) lots of Mexician friends in sxb tuxla and comitan...sorry for my excitement...I enjoy you videos... because of Covid haven’t been back since 2019 so sad

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Welcome! I'm so glad you found the channel and I hope that you're able to visit again soon!

[@Ferdinand_FE]

Thank you for sharing. Can you do a video about Healthcare please? Health insurance? I've been considering living abroad for the reasons you mentioned but I worry about Healthcare and insurance

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I will add that to my list. Thanks! :)

[@bananapatch9118]

Retiring in 3 years and San Cristobal is #1 on our list ! We LOVE chilly weather. We love to see cost of living and apartment tour videos. Sounds like your total monthly costs may be under $1000/month ? Thx !

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Adding things like food for our family of 4 (really 5, because our housekeeper cooks and eats two meals per day with us), full-time housekeeper/babysitter, gas for the car, educational expenses for our kids, health insurance, etc...our actual expenses come out to about $1,600 per month currently. If we were just two people we could definitely live for under 1K. ;)

[@bananapatch9118]

@@EricaRayLanguage Wow ! That is really incredible. We feel like we are slowly crawling to the finish line 3 years from now. Until then we will have to live vicariously through you. 😉 May I ask about the cost of a housekeeper ? I think we would really just like someone to come in maybe on e a week for a half day. Thank you so much !

[@EricaRayLanguage]

@@bananapatch9118 3 years will fly by, especially with the exciting prospect of a move right on the horizon! :) We generally pay about TWICE the minimum wage to our housekeeper who works full time (which is based on the day, not by the hour). Currently, the federal minimum wage is 141 MXN per work day.

[@bananapatch9118]

@@EricaRayLanguage I hope u r right about time flying by. So it looks like for housekeeping that works out to about $15/day plus meals and pleasant conversation ? Incredible ! Thx very much !

[@EricaRayLanguage]

You're very welcome! Best wishes!

[@josephquillian2866]

¡Buenos días! ¿Cómo amaneciste? (my favorite expression in Spanish) :-) I happened upon your video and thoroughly enjoyed it! I have shared it with friends and family. My husband Jorge and I are moving from Dallas, Texas, to Querétaro in six months. We are super excited! San Cristóbal just may be a place we’d like to live at some point. ¡Felicidades! ¡Saludos de Joseph (Jody) Quillian! ... en español soy Pepe

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thank you! And how exciting! Best wishes!

[@bananapatch9118]

Erika, Have you lived in other larger cities in Mexico ? Numbeo is usually fairly accurate, and it shows Sam Cristobal as maybe 20-30%cheaper over all cost of living than Puebla and Queretaro. That is remarkable if that’s correct. Thx !

[@EricaRayLanguage]

The only other city I've lived in is Cabo San Lucas. San Cristobal is dramatically less expensive compared to living there. :)

[@heidimasanga892]

What an interesting and informative video. My husband and I are a mixed race couple in our 50s. The racism and violence in the US only seems to be worsening. We talk about moving out of the US a lot. Mexico is definitely an option we would consider. I’m dedicated to learning Spanish and your channel is super helpful! Do you feel the racism towards Black people in Mexico is similar to the US or significantly less?? Would love to hear your thoughts. Thank you for all you do!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

So glad you're enjoying the channel and your plans to move abroad sound exciting! I haven't personally experienced any obvious racism here in Mexico and many other black expats here in Mexico echo the fact that they feel that it is significantly less than in the U.S. People will definitely stare at me and my girls, but in a "fascination" type of way and they'll come over to ask us where we're from, compliment our skin/hair, and congratulate my husband on his family (LOL)...We don't mind our hair being touched, but I know some people do. Haha. I have heard that unfortunately Afro-Mexicans are discriminated against, but I don't live in an area where there is a large population of Afro-Mexicans to comment on this personally. In Mexico there is a lot of classism and this is far more evident to me than racism. Do keep in mind that police checkpoints are very common and you will need to have your travel/residency documents on you to show when asked to show that you're here legally. Locals and foreigners are stopped for any multitude of reasons, but naturally, looking different could cause more frequent requests for your paperwork. I hope that helps!

[@SpockMonroe]

American black people typically do not experience the level of overt racist treatment due to the fact that they are American "Citizens of Rome" and carry wallets stuffed with cash to match. But it does exist. What she said regarding "classicism" applies. That being said, along with acceptance of homosexuality, the conscious humane treatment of animals, and of course, Mexico -- an 80% Roman Catholic nation -- legalizing abortion, all signs point to positive and significant progress here. In contradistinction to what is being threatened by a certain political party in the states right now.

[@TruthBeToldIsMe]

Yes please do a video on cost of living!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Coming soon! ☺️

[@TruthBeToldIsMe]

@@EricaRayLanguage 🤎

[@armindagracia5857]

Thanks for the information

[@EricaRayLanguage]

You're very welcome!

[@oya270]

Erica I just want to give a shot out to you for doing such as professional, insightful, and informative video. I work as a journalist and educator and have lived in two other cities in Mexico: San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca City. I'm back in the states now but have been seriously considering relocating to San Cristobal. My Spanish is very limited so I may even consider taking one of your classes. How realistic would it be for an American ex-pat to move to San Cristobal de Las Casas Chiapas with very limited Spanish language skills? Looking forward to hearing from you.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thank you very much! Your question is very good, but unfortunately very difficult for me to answer. :) I've not experienced life here from the perspective of someone who has limited Spanish, therefore there are things that I simply don't notice, such as how much of an ex-pat population there is, if there is help in English for basic transactions, etc...Someone asked me the other day if the driver's license written test is available in English and I simply have no idea. It's not something I asked when I went to take it. :) That being said, I know there are plenty of other ex-pats (in forums, etc..) with limited Spanish who would be much more qualified to answer your questions. Of course, your experience and enjoyment of life here will be elevated if you speak Spanish so I hope you stick around here for help learning. 🙂

[@oya270]

@@EricaRayLanguage Appreciate you thank you.

[@Ajuwah]

How limited is your limited Spanish? I lived in San Cris for a few months a couple of times and did ok. I can hold limited conversations. I find I understand a lot more than I speak, but I can get myself around. And you know the people are so warm and helpful🥰

[@2272charlie]

Thank you for all this great info, Erica! Who would I contact to find inexpensive apartment rentals in San Cristobal, similar in size, price, etc., to where you and your family are living? I definitely would not want to live in the expat or tourist areas. I'm in my mid-60s and looking to retire in a few years in Mexico. I'll be living on my Soc. Sec. Many thanks.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I have a friend who works in real estate. You can email me at [e-mail] for her info :)

[@ibelieveinjesuschrist8911]

i love this!!!

[@BeckyInCa]

Yes. Please do a cost of living in your city. 😊

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Will do! 😊

[@maddie9077]

please please do a cost of living.... rent at different prices. nice areas....

[@tashs949]

what area there is the house and how did you find that? I've not seen anything close to that?? Wow

[@meyliflores7216]

Hello Erica, thanks for this video. I loved it, I am from El Salvador and have lived in USA for a while, my wife is Mexican and we are considering to move to Chiapas even though she is from Puebla, we might be in Chiapas México by Dec. or 1st quarter of 2022, We would love to meet you guys so that way my children can keep their English with new Friends there..... once again thanks for making this video

[@tonyramirez4058]

Good job 👍

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thank you!

[@TropicalArtPaganMéxicoVideos]

Thank you great info 💛

[@EricaRayLanguage]

My pleasure!

[@nubeflo86]

Wow, your electricity bill is amazing, we live in Cozumel, Q,Roo and we pay around 4,000 (200 US) pesos every 2 months. We do need to use the aircon during the day or night EVERY DAY =(

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Yes, A/C is a killer. When we lived in Cabo San Lucas and had to use A/C I think ours got up to 1,000 or 2,000 per month. I don't recall which because I can't remember if we paid every month or every two months.

[@marisolvaniabonampak359]

Hi , I am from Chiapas but I live in Austin , TX . I pay 1000 dollars on rent If I save all the money for a few years I could buy a small nice house in Chiapas with the money I am paying here , my water bill is 80 dollars , electricity 60 or 90 in hot weather is really too much ! Just working to pay bills . But I will have to retire first

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I hear you! It's not easy, but there are advantages and disadvantages to every place, so I think we have to enjoy where we are at every stage in our lives. Your future plans of buying a house in Chiapas sound really exciting though! 😊

[@BiG.AsH313]

💘 LovE Your Channel & The Informative Information you provide! Yes! Can you please do a Video on Giving birth in Mexico 🇲🇽 God Bless you& The Family Much Love ❤ Peace and Blessings All the Way From Detroit, Michigan

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thanks so much!

[@noboundaries-lifecoachfeli9985]

Retiring soon. Do you teach via zoom? We want to visit Mexico and Africa to decide which is the best option. The cost of living, healthcare, and technology are number 1 factors.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Hi there. Not sure if you were asking if I teach Spanish or teach about Mexico via Zoom. If the first, I do language coaching (not Spanish tutoring) and you can email me at [e-mail] if you were interested in learning more. :)

[@noboundaries-lifecoachfeli9985]

@@EricaRayLanguage Yes, I will contact you asap. Planning on coming to visit this fall.

[@traceyarnold2955]

I just got to San Cris 2 weeks ago, love it so far. We were in Playa Del Carmen for a few months before and I definitely prefer San Cris for all the reasons you talked about. Do you have any suggestions for schools for my 2nd grader?

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Awesome! My children have done homeschool and virtual school (bilingual) for the past several years, so I don't have suggestions for local schools at this time. :)

[@tiffanyr-jester1557]

My husband is currently there and looking to move our family there soon. I was wondering if you could give me some wisdom on how to obtain a rental.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Please email me at [e-mail], if you haven't already. :)

[@TeacherNiaTeacherNia]

I am in need of a street map of all of San Cristobal (the city and possibly neighboring areas in the municipio).Do you have any clue as to where I can get a paper map of more than the "centro"? Or do you know of any particularly attractive colonias or residential developments?

[@uditnarayan921]

Awesome video

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Thanks! I've glad you enjoyed it!

[@bananapatch9118]

Hey Erika ! Time is ticking by and we are now about a year away from moving to San Cris ! Our biggest challenge is going to be moving with 4 senior dogs and finding a rental apartment that will allow 4 dogs. We have been told to look away from the city center, preferably south or west of the city. My wife is a native Spanish speaker and will be flying over there about a month before our move, to go ahead and rent a place for 6 or 12 months so upon arrival we have a place to live already. Any thoughts or ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thx !

[@EricaRayLanguage]

How exciting! It's great that your wife is coming first in order to already have a place settled. That always makes things easier. I've never owned pets (and where we are renting right now we can't have them) so I'm sorry that I wouldn't have suggestions about where to rent with 4 dogs, although the suggestion to look outside of the city center sounds reasonable to me. :)

[@therehastobesomethingmoore]

We are very excited ! Would you agree about looking on the south and west areas of town ? Thanks !!!@@EricaRayLanguage

[@3mijax]

That's my challenge too I have 3 dogs.. have you found a place

[@bananapatch9118]

@@3mijax We wont be in San Cris until this time next year.

[@3mijax]

@@bananapatch9118 me to :) I'll be going some where in Mexico

[@ubaldoperez8881]

Excellent

[@vapoiu56548]

Very Cool, Chica

[@karelfagan6846]

I’m interested in retiring either to Oaxaca or SanCristobal de las Casas. If you could do a compare and contrast for these cities it would be great! Love your videos!

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I've never been to Oaxaca, sorry about that! 😊

[@gopalbhatia8835]

Dear Erica ! Good evening to you.this video Impressed me. You know I watch every day Televisa Monterrey ( Mexico TV progarmm) two hrs , kindly let me know if you know some other Live TV programm from Mexico citys. Its for sure one of the Mexico city wil bring my rest of retirement years. Thanks for your information.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Hello! I don't watch much TV so I don't have the best recommendations, unfortunately. :(I prefer Netflix for foreign language entertainment. Sorry I can't be of more help on that! Perhaps someone else will chime in. :)

[@christopherhouse7937]

Is Oaxaca a little warmer climate than San Cristobal? Do you think it’s possible to find cheap rent in Oaxaca?.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I haven't been to Oaxaca (I really want to go!). I think it is warmer than San Cris and I couldn't comment on the price of rent as I haven't been.

[@Bubbleszthecreative]

Was it challenging to get your Visa? Is there an income requirement?

[@freddyandbriangamer3176]

Hello! Hope all is well with you and your family. I am thinking about moving to San Cris within the next two years. I joined an expat community on FB looking for info on internet access and prices. I saw some outrageous prices, $600 pesos for basic service, and $800 for streaming. I just can’t see the locals paying those prices. From your experience, do those prices seem normal for internet service?

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Are you referring to monthly? If so, then yes, that would be right. We pay I think $749 MXN for fiber optic internet + Netflix + home phone line. So that's about $38 USD. And in the past we've paid anywhere in the 400-600 MXN range for a more basic internet + cable + additional similar extras.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Oh, forgot to mention that we have Infinitum and since we got fiber optic the internet has been great, fast, and reliable. We had Megacable before and it was very unstable. You can go to any of those websites and check out the prices yourself. :)

[@tones_2466]

did you make the cost of living video?

[@EricaRayLanguage]

I actually have not. Here's an article I wrote about the subject though: ericaraylanguage.com/cost-of-living-in-mexico/

[@rcardoosuna6491]

How does this rent compare to the rent in Cabo San Lucas where you said you lived before?

[@EricaRayLanguage]

In Cabo we paid about 500 pesos more per month for a much smaller house. In general, everything was more expensive... groceries etc. That was several years ago though. I'm not sure how the two compare in this moment.

[@therealmellyb]

What is the area 3hrs away near the beach?

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Are you referring to the city of San Cristobal? We're about 3 hours away from a beach.

[@theblackmigotbm7501]

Hello there your story is absolutely impressive... I too have learned Spanish fluently ...I'm a african american self taught amigo.. No one in my family speaks Spanish.. I would love to hear from you ...I have scores of ideas and would love your input...Thanks

[@yenelifestyle8459]

Love your video. The rent is awesome, it’s In Which area ? Did you have an agent to find the house? Thanks in advance

[@Hitman-tk6en]

Yeah I been think for years to get my Mexican citizenship and move down their (since my mother is Mexican born) like I love the sates but I keep saving up for a home here and price keep going up and up even in my small city and me working 60 hour weeks and literally just been home to sleep and shower it’s burn me out

[@EricaRayLanguage]

That is rough! Consider it carefully, but sometimes it really is time for a change.

[@lillyrice2241]

How are things Sis? Haven't seen new content from you in a while. I hope all is well.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Hi Sis! I'm doing fine! Thanks for checking in. I appreciate it. :) I just uploaded a YT video this past Saturday, but you're right. I took a looong break (like a month I think!) from YT. I've been really busy behind the scenes building out my new course. But I'm here! I'm hoping to now be back on the consistency train with my videos. Haha

[@lillyrice2241]

@@EricaRayLanguage Glad to know you are well Sis! I look forward to all your new content and courses. How's Covid in your area? What are good areas in San Cristobal for expats who want to retire?

[@acajudi100]

I do speak Spanish as a second language. I spend $1300-$1500 per month, but you can get a $300. 00 per month electric heating bill, so I only use fans in the summer for my 880 sq ft. apartment. I do order every 6 months for a Walmart home delivery, but I want to live, where I can walk to the grocery stores. Better than hot or super cold weather. Meria is hot and human. I will be living in Queretaro, Mexico on 11/2/2021. USA doctors are paid pill pushers.

[@stanleyonyilimba7802]

Hi Erica..... I got admission to University of Azteca Chalco. I would love to get some review about that city. Thank you in advance.

[@EricaRayLanguage]

Unfortunately I know nothing about that city. So sorry!

[@mimigomt]

Wow! eso pagas de renta, increíble! en qué barrios recomiendas vivir, si no tienes carro pero quieres estar cerca del centro, pero también cerca de la naturaleza?

[@michaelhawk8297]

Damn, they're trippin up here in Mexicali. I'm up here paying 6000 mxn for a small studio that's open space with no separate rooms.

[@ellacarr6037]

Hello. So Im researching for short term rentals with airbnb and hostels in Mexico and none have tallied up to 175 monthly? What am I missing?

[@EricaRayLanguage]

You'll never find prices like that on Airbnb or online. :) We've found our places after arriving, "on the ground" so to speak by asking around, and in the case of where we live now, through a friend who works in real estate.