Life in Paradise Isn’t What We Expected (Puerto Escondido)

[@OurFreedomYears]

This is the video that you voted for! Let us know if you want more of the same...😊

[@DestinationRetirement]

Great video. Would love to see more of these but I also look forward to your go to topics. Stick with the arrival day videos and the cost summary videos. Day in the life is great also. Where were the pups? In an air-conditioned dog spa?

[@OurFreedomYears]

@@DestinationRetirement Back at home having a nice, long snooze!

[@2cartalkers]

Yes, more of Puerto Escondido; weather, cost of living, and what you found interesting both pros and cons.

[@OurFreedomYears]

@@2cartalkers Here's our wrap up video about Puerto Escondido bit.ly/3y5ajcl

[@20pump]

My wife Sandy and I were perusing videos about Puerto. We spend 3-4 months there every winter. We were interested in the title of your video to see what you thought of our home away from home. Then we realized it truly was our home away from home. When we saw you were staying at Jim and Connies place we roared laughing. We stayed in that unit for over six months in total over the last several years. Although it is warm, the breeze up there is always nice. We had Jim install those roller shades while we were there, as it truly helps in the heat of the day. Thanks for sharing.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Hilarious! We really had a great time in that apartment despite our struggle with the elements and all the insect life 😂 It really made our stay in Puerto quite memorable. Hopefully you had a chance to watch our final cost of living video from Puerto...we shared some highlights from when the hurricane rolled through town!

[@latebloomerabroad]

I was recently in Thailand for 2 months and had to get up by 6-7am so I could get a few hours of walking in before it got too hot. It was hard to wake up so early after my retirement, but it was definitely necessary.

[@OurFreedomYears]

6am was my favourite time of day back when we lived in Singapore 😂

[@Moorea2008]

I'm with you, Late Bloomer. I'm all about getting up early to avoid the heat.

[@user-ss3ud7pp7f]

Theses gringo Vlogs are hilarious. Who would ever think it would be hot at the beach near the equator?

[@OurFreedomYears]

😂

[@9344music5]

Ladies you knew full well you we’re going in the hot season. Too many complaints about the heat. But in the end, you. Got with it. We need to be flexible. Great video!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Maybe next time we'll plan for a place with AC 😂

[@Outlawes]

Haha nice to see a Puerto Escondido video that isn’t simply an “omg this place is AMAZING” blog. Thanks for showing the reality. We’ve lived in Puerto on an off for years and have seen the changes (and influx of vlogs) over the years 👌

[@OurFreedomYears]

So glad you enjoyed it! We're all about being honest about our travel experiences. 😊

[@keirongillespie6913]

Love your videos! I spent five months in Honduras and learned there is a very good reason why most of those cultures have mid-day siestas. Do stuff in the morning. Do stuff in the evening. Find a nice cool ace to chill for the mid-day.

[@OurFreedomYears]

We have learned to love siestas! They're a necessity. 😂

[@jotsandtittles]

Hey ladies! We started our travels in June 2021 with 5 months in Puerto Vallarta. The people were lovely, food was great, city was fun, and it was so hot I thought I was going to die. Going out after noon became a Hard No until about October. Hang in there!!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thanks! Glad to hear we're not the only ones hiding out inside for the afternoon. 😂

[@bw5911]

I was all over Spain in Feb. and had to change up my normal routine because so many places closed between 1-4. I ended up going back to my Airbnb during that time and taking a nap and freshening up before heading back out for the 2nd half of the day/evening. I ended up loving it.

[@OurFreedomYears]

We found the same when we were in Spain and learned to love it as well. It became a nice lifestyle. 😊

[@freshpr796]

Puerto escondido es para surfers y gente amante d la naturaleza . No for old people 😂

[@OurFreedomYears]

😊

[@melhenline8438]

I feel your pain. We went to Miami and Key West on vacation a few years ago and I thought I was going to die! I was melting into a puddle and my husband could barely convince me to come out of the A/C to do anything. I tried, but it was a challenge! I am not a hot weather person. 🙂

[@OurFreedomYears]

It turns out neither are we! Although I think having no air conditioning at all helped us acclimate better over the month -- at least that's what I keep telling myself. 😂

[@mmeb7250]

Hello! We travel a lot, to many different climates. We had one trip to Costa Rica a couple of years ago that did not go as planned initially (for many reasons). At first, with our small child in tow, I was ready to drive back to the airport, seriously. We were able to regroup the next day, and we changed locations and had much better experiences after that. It was a lot of pivoting in the moment but we have great stories that we still tell from that trip. So glad I hung in there after my inital shock. On a separate note - I had told my husband to plan that trip to Costa Rica "because it was always me". Never asked him again, and I changed my mindset to realize that is more my skillset. This is not a dig on my husband - it is the wisdom to realize that I needed to change my expectations of my partner.

[@OurFreedomYears]

What a great story! So good that you persisted and made it work. We find that being flexible and open minded is really the secret to travel -- especially because our plans go off the rails so often! We're also in favour of dividing up the travel planning based on skill set - works better for everyone that way.

[@janellr6321]

Love the grasshopper experience. I'm sure I'd share Stephanie's reaction.. no thank you! Gearing up for 2 weeks in Puerto Vallarta in July. Know we'll melt every day but love the people, the area and even the hot 🔥 🥵 weather! Safe travels!

[@OurFreedomYears]

You're going to have an amazing time in PV! Sure it's hot but nothing that a dip in the water and a cold drink can't fix! 😊

[@johnperkins5450]

Stephanie’s reaction to the grasshoppers was priceless!!!!! 😂 Good sport for trying! 👍🏼

[@OurFreedomYears]

I gave it my best but they were actually even less appealing than I expected 😂

[@johnperkins5450]

@@OurFreedomYears 🤗

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

@@OurFreedomYears You should know the free range hoppers are better than the farm raised. They are a little more expensive but you'd know why if have you ever tried to catch a bunch!

[@OurFreedomYears]

@@davidsebastianelli1326 Great tip - thanks!

[@OurFreedomYears]

@violamateo Great tip! I'll see if I'm brave enough to try them again 😊

[@southboundseahags5587]

Y’all get to the mountains. Mexico is amazing. You can drive to a different season in a couple hours. You guys will love the weather in the San Miguel Allende/ Guanajuato area. Thanks for the great videos!

[@OurFreedomYears]

We can't wait! Beach life has been fun but we're ready for those cool mountain breezes.

[@gif24gt60]

The heat and humidity in southern Mexico along the Pacific coast is stiffling even the Gators hibernate in the shade.

[@OurFreedomYears]

We've had a great time here but happy to be heading to cooler climates next!

[@ross2142]

Buy a rash guard shirt. Surfers wear them to swim in. They are breathable spandex shirts. Keep it wet like, dunk it and ring it out and wear it all day. It’s a great way to stay cool, especially if it’s a bit breezy outside. Body temperature will stay lower.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Great tip - thanks! Staying cool is a top priority here 😂

[@loricarrasco1256]

We are moving to Mexico in July. I’m a hot weather kind of girl, but my partner is not. I am hoping for some adjustments in our routine as well to accommodate the warmer climate. Love your videos, and we can all learn from switching things up a bit!

[@OurFreedomYears]

That sounds like quite the adventure ahead of you! Good luck with the move and also with finding a new routine that works for you. 😊

[@alalesc3796]

Puerto escondido is awesome! The hotel and restaurant owners are mainly from Europe. Nightlife is amazing.

[@OurFreedomYears]

It's a great place - we really enjoyed our time there. 😊

[@pritipanwar7316]

Love your videos....and eagerly look forward to them

[@OurFreedomYears]

So sweet - thank you so much! 😊

[@omrouk]

I have to say this video had us both chuckling. We were both cringing as you both ate the crickets and Stephanie’s reaction was priceless!!!

[@OurFreedomYears]

I just had another opportunity to try grasshopper...and it was a very, very firm no. 😂😂😂

[@omrouk]

@@OurFreedomYears We're both on team Stephanie here.

[@dariodiaz5200]

Great video and excellent pointers regarding flexibility in life, and lessons learned. That being said, unless you are staying put ONLY in that part of the country then yes it will be hot. However, in the central part of the country (what was called the silver route region during colonial years) the weather is amazing, it is indeed eternal spring. If you are looking for cooler, amazing food and architecture, mountainous or drier heat but not extreme humidity, check out the cities of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Queretaro, Puebla, and CDMX. If you must stay in Oaxaca, then visit the mountainous region of San Jose del Pacifico only 3-4 hours away from Puerto Escondido. We stayed at the Rancho Viejo Cabins, it is a completely different experience from the heat of the Oaxacan coast, lush green pine trees, cooler, mountainous and the views are amazing - literally living in the clouds There are plenty of KZbin videos about this place, to switch your experience. I would suggest to travel to other areas and don't get trapped in the heat. Have you considered visiting Oaxaca City? Another gem and interesting-adventurous experience. Hopefully, some variety in your destinations within Mexico will change your experience for the better. Have fun, and maybe is time to surf to cool off! Cheers

[@OurFreedomYears]

This is amazing...your tips cover off all our upcoming destinations! Although we're only going to a handful of the places you mentioned. 😊 The beach has been fun but we're definitely looking forward to exploring mountain life in Mexico.

[@aurainesheinz3103]

Looking forward to La Punta. And that was darn good Spanish there when you asked the taxi driver about the fare!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thanks! I've been practicing a lot so I'm glad to hear it's paying off 😊

[@travelvideos]

I think it is possible to go without AC. I don't use AC, because I don't like the difference between cold and hot. But it is possible to pass out when doing something mental or physical in the heat.

[@OurFreedomYears]

So far we've done well without the AC and just avoided anything strenuous during the peak heat of day.

[@julissacotillo]

The puppers! Im in Mexico City for a month too and likewise I found it more difficult to adjust than expected. We also don’t have a/c and thought the heat would be more forgiving. You both have been champs adjusting to Mexican cuisine but I been struggling with the salsas and the tortillas. Thankfully there’s plenty of other options here in the city. My dog absolutely loves the city though, she goes with us everywhere and is welcomed in every venue.

[@OurFreedomYears]

That's so great to hear about your dog because we'll be heading to Mexico City eventually. Nice to know that it's so dog friendly. 😊

[@Nottyboy50]

As long as you stay on the coast, you will be HOT at this time of year. Go up to Oaxaca city and you will find an almost perfect year-round climate. In San Cristobal de las Casas, you may actually feel chilly. In Mexico, everything is about the altitude.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Our next stop is in the mountain region and we can't wait to feel chilly! 😊

[@rookiemaquillage]

Why did you choose to go to Mexico during the hottest months rather than winter?

[@OurFreedomYears]

We spent the winter being chilly on the coast of Turkey...really need to work on our timing! 😂

[@yew6981]

What was the monthly cost living like in Puerto Escondido?

[@OurFreedomYears]

We shared all our costs in this video: bit.ly/3y5ajcl

[@ovh992]

I am loving your videos!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thank you so much! We have a lot of fun making them 😊

[@travellingwithcrowsfeet]

Yes, adaptation is the key with this new destination ladies. Hope the boys are OK? Safe travels

[@OurFreedomYears]

They're all good and enjoying a big snooze 😊

[@lizs502]

Thanks for making these videos. You inspired me to sell my stuff and travel with my cat. We are only in our first destination (Chicago), and I'm glad we don't have to adapt to a different climate because still getting used to not using the bed, desk chair, kitchen, etc that I used for the last decade. Good luck with the heat, I wonder if you'll get so used to it that when you return to a cooler climate you'll feel too cold.

[@kimberlylalley7255]

@Liz S, I'm going to Chicago to live with my cat for a few months. Are you in the city? I've been surprised at the high cost of Airbnb's. How long will you be there? I'm looking forward to Jazz Fest.

[@OurFreedomYears]

So amazing - on the road with your cat! I'm sure you'll find nomad life to be a big adjustment but also a lot of fun. 😊

[@andrews3978]

Hi Stephanie and Jillian. Just discovered your videos and I must confess that you are now replacing my Pandemic Netflix addiction. I have had the travel bug for years and have been so fortunate over the last 20 years to have circled the globe(during vacations from work) with my mom who shares my passion for experiencing new cultures. I am getting SO close to reaching FIRE and have done so much research on how to manage this successfully and your videos are the perfect mix of my passion for travel and the philosophy of living every day to its fullest potential when you have saved enough to do just that. I so appreciate how open and honest you both are about what has gone great and pitfalls and mistakes you have made. You both seem to have the most amazing attitude towards dealing with curve balls and inspire me in many ways. You both seem amazing and I look forward to following your life experiences.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Hi Andrew - Our huge apologies for the delayed response. Your message got caught in the KZbin spam filter for some reason and I've only now found it! Thank you so much for sharing your story and congrats on being so close to FIRE...you'll be there before you know it! It's so gratifying for us to know that our videos have been helpful to your journey. Please do stay in touch and keep us posted on your adventures.

[@stanlygarcia33]

Y'all are awesome! Thanks so much for the info!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Glad it was helpful! 😊

[@williamsharpnack5534]

I've lived in pto for 19 yrs, so funny to see johnny come latelys come and figure things out, mainly why Mexicans take a siesta...

[@OurFreedomYears]

It seems that a siesta is a necessity!

[@NomadShifu]

Puerto Escondido is definitely one of the best places to visit in Mexico.

[@OurFreedomYears]

It's a beautiful town - we're loving our time here. 😊

[@RedroomStudios]

you are basically learning what I learned a year ago in Puerto Vallarta. I am not sure though what you mean about "now vs the rainy season" now is the start of the rainy season and it doesnt get any cooler. in fact I wouldnt say it gets much cooler until December. and now I wouldnt stay on the ocean other than Jan-Mar when the humidity finally goes away. most days last summer there was no breeze at all and the nights barely cooled off. getting inland and up in the mountains you will find slightly more moderate temps and less humidity. have fun exploring!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thanks! Next time we hit the coast of Mexico, we'll try to time it better 😊

[@katherron8789]

How has eating in mexico been? No belly issues from eating out?

[@OurFreedomYears]

We had a couple incidences of tummy trouble over the course of four months...not too bad! We tried to follow all the best practices for food safety and that was helpful.

[@davefair2969]

Thanks for a great video. I went to Mexico for the first time last November. I booked an Airbnb and it was a great view as described. But the owner had dogs that howled out on her balcony all night, other dogs came around to join in. Then the roosters started up at about 5 am. It was impossible to get a good night's sleep. I got some kind of food poisoning thing on day 7. I realised when I was there that I'm not really a full on in the sun person, if I was a plant I'd be a partial shade plant, more a 16 to 25c person, definitely not over 30c.. oh and the 40c in Thailand... no thanks, maybe when I was younger. I still like the idea of travel, but I find the reality of it to be a bit hit and miss. A bit like rolling dice, sometimes 6's and sometime 1's and 2's.. but when they come up 1's and 2's it's such a long way to come home.

[@OurFreedomYears]

This is an excellent description of the travel lifestyle...some hits and some misses! We always take the misses as a learning opportunity and try to plan better the next time. 😊

[@kcfd28]

You both are approaching this with a great attitude!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thanks! We always try to make the best of every situation 😊

[@stjules66]

I love your positivity and honesty when things didn’t live up to your expectations. I’m also not good with the hot weather though I keep travelling back to Bali as an Australian. I couldn’t do without aircon. Definitely want to spend some time in Mexico in my future slow travels and will make sure to try and avoid high summer. Missed the doggies but great see you both trying the grasshoppers and enjoying the mezcal 😃

[@OurFreedomYears]

Bali is so beautiful - how could you resist going again and again! We certainly miss aircon but at least we're getting a chance to really acclimate 😂

[@ian230570]

The pooches are missing. Did you leave them in an air con facility for a day of glorious cool? At least you will have learned some valuable lessons from this experience. And experience is SUCH a valuable commodity. I must say that I was pretty excited before you went out to Mexico because it’s a destination that I’ve thought about before but it is out of my comfort zone because I’m mostly found in Europe destinations. But I shall use your experience to inform my own future choices. Coming at you from the Loire Valley, France where it is mid 20s Celsius max. Hoping you guys pull through this without melting away.

[@OurFreedomYears]

20 C in the Loire Valley - sounds like heaven! We left the doggies behind with a sitter in our very hot and humid open air apartment! 😂

[@triciahowley824]

This was a great video I really appreciate your transparency about how travel reality sometimes doesn’t live up to the dream!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Glad you enjoyed it! We have definitely found that full-time travel isn't all Instagram moments. 😊

[@dogtiredtravels5286]

Good morning, ladies! I loved the video today (actually I love them all). But this was one was especially good because you showed us that even if things aren't exactly as you thought they would be you can still turn them around into something really good. I have to commend you for your courage to rent a place w/o A/C down there. I know I could never do it and my poor little doggie would like it either, but again, you're switching up your routine to make the best of it. Your lunch was hilarious! Stephanie, even mezcal couldn't convince me to eat grasshoppers. LOL. It's interesting to note that what you think is normal (food or otherwise) is very much a product of what you learned when you are growing up. In much of Mexico (and other places) eating grasshoppers and other insects is just what they do, while in most of the West we wouldn't dream of it. Continued Happy Travels!

[@OurFreedomYears]

So glad to hear you enjoyed the video! We had a lot of fun making this one...although I don't think I'll be trying grasshoppers again in a hurry 😂

[@yazminmojica4458]

So, what month was it?

[@OurFreedomYears]

This was May and it was sizzling!

[@yazminmojica4458]

@@OurFreedomYears Thank you 👍🏻

[@k.johnson1256]

I bow down to you both for trying the grasshoppers, that was awesome! 👏

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thanks! All it took was a shot of mezcal 😂

[@thecricketshow001]

What month was that ?

[@OurFreedomYears]

It was May - very hot!!

[@inea-fijourney22]

love these kind of videos! Cant wait for y'all to come to my home Puerto Rico. 🔥🇵🇷 you'll love it!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Maybe one day! From everything we've heard, it sounds like a beautiful country 😊

[@AlexAlex-gj4jd]

I live in the suburbs of Seattle. We are not used to very hot weather most of the year! What I have found is that if I go swimming in the one outdoor pool near me, even for an hour or two in the hot afternoon when the pool is open, it somehow cools my whole body for the rest of the day. I also use it as a workout/lap swim so it's a double whammy! Sometimes I keep my swim top on that is still wet when I get home and that helps too. If I stay home and try and get through the day inside, I end up roasting and being miserable. Is there a pool somewhere or is the ocean temperature too hot to cool you off? Enjoying your vlogs! ☀🌊🌈 🩱☀

[@OurFreedomYears]

So glad to hear you're enjoying our videos! 😊 Fortunately we have a pool just downstairs...it makes the afternoons so much better when we take a dip at peak heat of day.

[@DestinationRetirement]

Hey Alex, I live in Portland (Seattle 22years) and last summer was insane. In Mérida at my air bnb house I have a "dipping" pool for that very reason.

[@raizafernandez8247]

Take a look to Ajijic. How are the dogs doing in Mexico? I have been thinking that my next adventure is Mexico too. Good Luck!

[@OurFreedomYears]

The dogs are surviving the heat and even having a good time playing on the beach. 😊

[@armenxo]

Are you guys still down there? Just wondering with the Hurricane and all.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Fortunately the hurricane passed to the south of Puerto Escondido so we were safe and sound.

[@shackbikechick7414]

Thanks for sharing the grasshopper challenge :) Interesting, the need to change up the daily routines based on the (extreme) weather. We've discovered this ourselves now too.

[@OurFreedomYears]

It's amazing how much weather and other factors can affect how we go about everyday life! 😂

[@bjones9942]

I did a bus trip down the pacific coast in October, 2020. It was in the 90's the whole way from Mazatlán to Puerto Escondido. I stayed in hostels that didn't have air conditioning, but was saved because I had my evaporative cooling towel with me. I have one that covers half of me from neck to ankle. It was great for getting to sleep at night. Amazon sells them - and they're inexpensive.

[@OurFreedomYears]

So interesting...we'll have to research this towel -- never heard of it before!

[@bjones9942]

@@OurFreedomYears I also travel with a rainleaf microfiber towel because some hostels don't provide a towel for the shower. Don't leave one drying unattended though - your roommate in Paris might steal it! Lol. Both of these will fold up and fit very compactly in a backpack.

[@vernonshoemaker8238]

Love that you tried the chapulinas! They are an "aquired" taste! But, really great source of protein and they are raised in sustainable style habitats. We spent 3 months in Sayulita (Nov-Jan) and found the pool to be a requirement to deal with the heat. Just work on your tans and embrace the siesta lifestyle...early morning and evening are the only times to be out and about. Just an FYI, do not drink the water. Period. Even ice cubes...make your own ice using bottled water at the AIRBNB for cocktails and stick with caned or bottled beverages in ALL restaurants! Enjoy you two! Always fun to see your vids!

[@vernonshoemaker8238]

Also, be very aware of salads in restaurants! They wash the greens in water you should NOT drink. Make sure your veggies are ALL cooked!!!!

[@OurFreedomYears]

So many good tips here and we're trying to follow all of them. So far so good! 😊

[@martbright]

I was in Zipolite in April and it was hot but I actually really love heat. A hat does help! Also an accommodation with a pool! We plan to spend winters in Mexico after we retire. Exploring different areas. You don’t have to go far to escape the heat-one of the many awesome things about Mexico. I am a vegetarian but I did try chapulines.

[@OurFreedomYears]

We were so happy to have a pool at our place...it really made the hot afternoons much more bearable!

[@roadtriprob8442]

Any thoughts about visiting more temperate areas such as San Miguel or Queretaro

[@OurFreedomYears]

Yes! In fact, San Miguel de Allende is the very next stop for us.

[@carloscarlos7044]

Did you drive from the U.S. ? I ask because I'm wondering how you got your dogs down there

[@OurFreedomYears]

We flew in with them from Canada. They came in the cabin of the plane.

[@travelrefocused]

Love that you are adventurous enough to at least try the grasshoppers. My first opportunity to try then was a mezcal place in San Miguel de Allende called Mezcal Art. While I'm Puerto Escondido, we spent a lot of mornings at the beach but typically left by 12:30 or so for a lunch spot... Typically Los Buzos for fresh seafood on the beach. The smaller beaches, Like Carazalillo got a bit crowded by then and, of course, hotter. interestingly enough, we didn't spend much time on La Punta. But, we did return to the beaches later in the day to view the sunsets. It will be interesting to see how you adapt to the rest of your stay in Puerto. BTW... I'm not sure what the rest of your Mexico itinerary looks like, but the mountainous regions in central Mexico have beautiful weather. We spent quite a bit of time there.

[@OurFreedomYears]

The mountains are the very next stop in our journey...really looking forward to some cool breezes in San Miguel de Allende. We also limited our time in La Punta as it was a bit too lively for us -- but it was good to visit a couple times at least.

[@alainbergeron4520]

Thanks for the insightful comments and very informative presentation. I hope you are enjoying the place. It is hot 🔥 but worth visiting..am I right?

[@OurFreedomYears]

It's worth visiting if you are keen on a beach destination with surfing, sundowners, dolphins and turtles! It has a quiet vibe which we really enjoyed.

[@jamesdellaneve9005]

No dogs so far! A few minutes in. Maybe you can buy a cheap box fan. Blow wet hot air on yourselves. Perhaps a swim before bedtime would cool you down.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Having a swim every afternoon has been an absolute lifesaver 😊

[@CallateCarnal]

Soy nacido en México D.F., pero vivo en Suiza 🇨🇭. I love Puerto Escondido, surfing at the Playa Zicatela in November is my favorite Spot I ever was surfing ‼️ Not Durban or Hawaii, not Portugal, no, Puerto Escondido has the Waves I love more than anything else! You can go in all places, if you are not acting like an arrogant Gringo, you also get the best Snow 😂 you want. 2$ is nothing, here in Switzerland I pay more than 100$! Y Motta, hay todo que quires. I lived many years there, do nothing than Surfing and enjoy the life. Now I am a bit older, so if you want to go to travel, do it! As younger as better! I don't mean Cancun where US Citizens are going for Spring break and have no respect to the culture, those moments when exactly those kind of tourist get ripped off are the only good thing in the Zona Hotelería in Cancun!!😂😂

[@OurFreedomYears]

It's a beautiful place! So wonderful that you had a great time there. 😊

[@freetowandernow]

Hi guys! This comment coming to you from the North Shore of Lake Superior. I must say I did expect a bit more warmth (it’s June! And a high tomorrow of 12!) though after 4 months in Mexico I’m embracing the cool 😎

[@OurFreedomYears]

It sounds just perfect! 😊

[@slowmads]

With a little research on how locals adapt, we alter our waking, napping, walking, sleeping and eating times to accommodate the weather and culture!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Exactly the right thing to do! It's an essential for each destination.

[@pierretrudeau5549]

Funny i think i met one of you girls at the Shish kabab restaurant in Baccocho...guess it was in feb 2022. But hey, regarding weather....let me remind you you were in Mexico...and pretty near the northern part of central america.

[@OurFreedomYears]

I don't think that was us as back in February we were in Turkey! Yes, we're learning that the coast of Mexico is pretty hot 😊

[@Moorea2008]

How do you find the time to create so many high-quality videos? I'm impressed. ¡Buen viaje a San Miguel de Allende!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thanks so much! It does take up a few hours but we really enjoy having it as a hobby.

[@AuntyJack123]

Great video and I appreciate your honesty. We've been slow travelling for the last 14 months. Started in Phuket Thailand then did 5 months in Mexico and then headed to Central America. We have twice just admitted it's a no to places we've prepaid on airbnb and, although we were refunded a little from each, we accepted the loss rather than stay somewhere we weren't going to enjoy at all. Yes it's very hot but we still go out for little walks and get a cold drink maybe sit and people watch. Your staying with no air-conditioning at all is a thing I couldn't do where it's hot and doesn't cool down much at night. Definitely need air-conditioning for sleeping if it's hot 😃

[@OurFreedomYears]

Sounds like you're having quite the adventures with your world travels! Yes, we'll aim for quiet afternoons with a nice cold drink. 😊

[@andrewreno6424]

how did ya'll handle the hurricane? We had to jump to CDMX a week early

[@OurFreedomYears]

Fortunately it passed by south of us so we missed the worst part of the storm.

[@greytravels4311]

I noticed that you both had sling bags. Can you share what brand? Thanks, Lonnie

[@OurFreedomYears]

They are Patagonia Atom bags and we love them! They can fit a surprising amount of stuff. I got mine first and Gillian copied me a year later.

[@gif24gt60]

How come you didn't negotiate the taxi ride?

[@OurFreedomYears]

Great catch! Normally I do but Stephanie was in a hurry for us to get to La Punta!

[@GeorgiaandDavid]

We are heading to PE in December. Weather should be a bit cooler and our Airbnb has AC in the bedroom. Missed seeing the doggies in this one. SMA should be quite a bit cooler especially in the evenings, we just left there. Glad to see you are making the best of it!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Sounds like you'll have a much easier time of it in September! Enjoy that AC! 😊

[@charles6762]

please share this video with all your friends .

[@oscardiaz3968]

Great Video 🙏

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thank you 🙌

[@bobyonker3100]

Thanks for sharing the grasshopper challenge. It is nice to at least try new things but you don't have to ever do it again if the answer is a definite no. Enjoy your beaches and sunsets.

[@OurFreedomYears]

I think it's a no for the grasshoppers but fortunately there's lots of other amazing food to try here 😊

[@DestinationRetirement]

Ask a local about "tomar el fresco" a lovely tradition in Mexico.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Sounds intriguing...we'll look it up!

[@pgpc6448]

im from the SW US, I love the heat!! Is it dry heat or humid?

[@OurFreedomYears]

It's a humid heat...maybe you'll enjoy it!

[@pgpc6448]

@@OurFreedomYears or maybe not. Texas is humid yuck! Arizona is dry heat, a bit nicer for me.

[@NaeOnYT]

Most of my students from very hot countries (parts of Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Burkina Faso, etc.) told me it was really normal in such places to "hunker down" during the hottest part of the day, like you guys are. Many people either start their day jobs really early in the morning, or more towards the evening, and nobody does anything during the hottest part of the day if they can avoid it! Some of them also brought me grasshoppers to try, and while I didn't mind the actual flavor, the texture was just very off-putting to me. Maybe Stephanie should try it again to see if it's an acquired taste! ;)

[@OurFreedomYears]

I would be open to trying them again -- as long as they're served with a hearty pour of mezcal 😂

[@Nyhiker]

Great video ladies. Love the grasshopper tasting. We tried them once at a Mexican Restaurant in DC but I couldn’t get over the thought that I was eating grasshoppers. I think you will get used to the heat. We’re from upstate NY not too far from Toronto and we eventually got used to in during our three months further down the coast in Oaxaca. But maybe it’s hotter now. Can’t wait to see your next destination.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Sometimes we feel like we're acclimating to the heat...and then 2pm rolls around and we realize just how sizzling it is! 😂

[@jamesdellaneve9005]

I went to Florence in August. We were lucky that the weather was good for the first week and the last 3 days were hot and muggy.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Fortunately there are so many museums and galleries and churches there for cooling out!

[@lorill2631]

Missing: Where are the dogs? Sweltering in paradise is still better than most places :) I get it, it’s hot! Reminds us to slow down and nap in the hottest part of the day… and stay poolside and drinking lots of slushes … I super pale and have danish genes… so it takes a lot Out of us! just think how clean your pores are! Ha!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Our pores must be absolutely sparkling clean by now! 😂

[@dannymann7976]

Not everyone might RELISH traveling with pets. Up until now you've MUSTARD the patience to do so. Perhaps your uncool accommodations and the soaring mercury are the reasons why there are no HOT DOGS in this video?

[@OurFreedomYears]

Hilarious as always! So nice to see your comment here Danny! 😊😊😊

[@LoveToday8]

Came across your video searching for Puerto Escondido content. Cool seeing a lesbian couple travel KZbinrs.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Glad you enjoyed the video! 😊

[@dennishassler605]

You are ONLY staying for one month, so how will you ever adjust to the climate unless you live there for a while? YOU might just go to a higher elevation so it won't be hot and, then, you can walk all day long without getting so hot. It's a choice - get used to hot and humid, or go to higher elevations like Oaxaca City.

[@OurFreedomYears]

We did go to Oaxaca and had an amazing time. The video is here... bit.ly/3S67Fva

[@dennishassler605]

@@OurFreedomYears So pleased you are open and having a great time in Mexico; also, getting around to experience various locations, too. I just got fed up with overpricing and substandard work by mechanics, so had a head gasket that went out (AGAIN) because the mechanic didn't rethread a bolt hole that holds down the head. I actually towed the car down to Nogales Mexico and had it repaired with other work there. Well, we drove the car home yesterday with everything repaired and with new rack-and-pinion installed - drove like a dream and paid less than half the cost for a mechanic good enough to repair the threaded hole and do extra things, too. I've learned to respect Mexican mechanics!!!

[@elterrifico9522]

Where to next?

[@OurFreedomYears]

San Miguel de Allende! We're looking forward to seeing what everyone loves about it...we've heard a lot of good things.

[@elterrifico9522]

I hear it’s expensive and full of gringos. Hopefully you make it to Queretero for a review. I need to get out of Toronto ASAP.

[@kimberlylalley7255]

Where are Huxley and Jasper?

[@OurFreedomYears]

Safe and sound at home with a dog sitter. 😊

[@dominiquetheeasyminimalist]

The dogs are missing! 🐶

[@OurFreedomYears]

Yup! They stayed at home. 😊

[@junkboxxxxxx]

There's so much content on KZbin now and they all feel exactly the same

[@lucieteal7201]

Where are the dogs and how they adjusting to the heat

[@OurFreedomYears]

They're doing great although I think they're looking forward to cooler climes as well. 😂

[@williamsharpnack5534]

You missed the best restaurant on the point, El Lugar run by Sue and Gustavo, on the main corner of the main street at the point.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Thanks for the tip - will check it out.

[@carolwebber5280]

Whete are the pups?

[@OurFreedomYears]

Snoozing at home! 😂

[@thevahandbook]

No doggos or gym? I'm in Split at the moment and even though it's only June, I stay at home all day with the aircon/fan on and shutters down. I have to walk my dog very early and then again pretty late. Even at 7.30am and 8pm it's hot though. It sounds nice to be warm (I'm from the UK where we complain about the cold all the time) but being covered in a film of sweat all the time, not sleeping and worrying about getting a (another) kidney stone isn't fun at all.

[@OurFreedomYears]

I can just imagine how hot Split must be right now! We were there in October and it was a perfect temperature - just the right amount of heat.

[@sylviemorissette7668]

The dogs are missing!!!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Indeed! They stayed behind with a sitter this time. 😊

[@amdelorey]

Loved so much of this - tiny bikinis, mezcal, grasshoppers and end of afternoon grumpiness! ;) And tropical evening bliss! Cabarete DR is an lively late afternoon vibe of kite surfing and beach activity. Not our usual afternoon but when we are there (and highly recommend) we always head to beach to watch the lively activity.....and maybe get a 2for1 cocktail.

[@OurFreedomYears]

Sounds like a fun time! We've really learned that the tropics are all about late afternoon and sundowners 😂

[@ginasalinas7892]

I live in Puerto, crickets are good though, and that cab tried to charge you double

[@OurFreedomYears]

Normally we negotiate our cab rides but we were in a hurry to get to La Punta this time 😊

[@TRIPONTHIS]

Prices for your meals? taco?

[@OurFreedomYears]

Coming next video! We'll be providing a complete summary of all our experiences and costs.

[@hughlawson5399]

stinking hot, horse flies everywhere, dengue and malaria, lots of poverty. heaven for surfing!

[@OurFreedomYears]

Yes, lots of issue but very good surfing.

[@chattieh10]

Your puppies!!!

[@OurFreedomYears]

That's right!

[@tehilash7292]

Where are the doggies?

[@OurFreedomYears]

At home having a nice long nap! 😊

[@migueldiaz9683]

No es por la cultura ..la pura verdad ..es porque es barato .

[@OurFreedomYears]

Gracias por compartir

[@kikasokino6754]

You leaved Balkan on time, we have enourmos heat here, +32c but I see its same there :D

[@OurFreedomYears]

Exactly the same over here...maybe even hotter! 😊

[@4nshale]

Your puppies are not exploring with you.

[@OurFreedomYears]

That's right! We left them at home this time.

[@chrism69337]

Dogs....Where are they?

[@OurFreedomYears]

Snoozing at home! 😊