The Best Place to Live as Expats & Snowbirds in Mexico | San Miguel de Allende

[@RetirementTravelers]

We loved our latest visit to Mexico and plan to return in the near future. San Miguel is an amazing city, especially for the retiree looking for great weather and an interesting place as an international snowbird or expat. Be sure to check out some of our other restaurant and hotel guides from Mexico. retirementtravelers.com/world-countries/north-america/mexico-travel-information Happy journeys, John and Bev

[@loub1733]

It is so good to hear about the beautiful and positive aspects of Mexico and the popularity of this destination for Americans. What we hear globally is a lot of rhetoric about rapists and murders coming into the US from Mexico and other places. An alternate narrative is more than important.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks. We had a great visit in Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@agasque]

Thanks for your great video about San Miguel! My husband and I have made SMA our homebase for the last three years. I think your video does a good job of accurately portraying our lovely city. But I do think your video and most other current videos about SMA underestimate the cost of living here. It is definitely significantly less than most places in the United States - we think we’re living on less than half of what it cost us to live in Washington, DC. But prices are rising. And if someone moves here wanting to have all of the comforts of a home in the US, that is going to cost a lot more per month than $1500-2500. Grocery prices are also on the rise. I would never want to dissuade someone from considering this wonderful magical place. But I’ve seen too many people arrive here with unrealistic expectations of what it would cost to live here.

[@CDLCDL702]

The cost is rising cause you gringos keep gentrifying it and inflating the prices

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for the feedback and glad you are enjoying SMA. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@melhenline8438]

My husband and I took a vacation there this past April. We rode the bus from Mexico City. We had a great time! It's a lovely town. We were fascinated by all the little shops hidden in alleyways that just wind between the streets and buildings. Most of the restaurants have beautiful courtyards so you can dine alfresco. People were friendly and we were actually stopped by a middle school class doing a project to practice their English. They interviewed us on video for their class. They were so sweet. 🙂

[@RetirementTravelers]

That sounds amazing. Thanks for sharing your wonderful experiences. It is great city to visit, live, or snowbird. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@Group_Anonymous]

So cool 😝😝

[@cristinavalencia7870]

Thank you so much for visiting us! Your video and explanation of our beautiful town is amazing and accurate. Hope to see you soon and for a longer visit.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks again for your time to help inform us of the housing options in SMA. It is a wonderful place and we do plan to return for a longer visit. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@hannahcoy8644]

Looks like such an awesome place. The City Market looks amazing!!! Thank you for sharing!

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks so much. The City Market is an incredible grocery store. We hope you get to visit San Miguel de Allende someday. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@simplifyyourlifewithgwen]

What a beautiful place. ❤️ John and Bev, you have the best travel channel. I’ve watched the channel evolve from the airstream days into what it is today. I enjoyed the early videos because YOU make the videos. You’re interesting people with a good presence. And the videos today… they’re incredible. All your hard work is evident and I appreciate that you share your journey with us. You inspire a lot of people. 😊🙋🏻‍♀️ I love seeing the Saturday morning notification that you’ve uploaded another video. You are a blessing. 💗

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thank you! We still edit our own videos and make them ourselves. We’re glad you enjoy them! John and Bev

[@simplifyyourlifewithgwen]

@@RetirementTravelers impressive!

[@johnkennettle7567]

Ah, yes, one KZbinr praising another KZbinr. Ha ha.

[@sandraburruspropertygroup]

We visited San Miguel for a wedding last summer and absolutely fell with it. It reminded us a lot of the vibe of Santa Fe, New Mexico. I agree hundred percent we felt very safe walking around and locals were extremely friendly and welcoming will definitely go back!

[@RetirementTravelers]

So cool! Thanks for sharing. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@melissatravelgal]

Bev, you look beautiful, so vibrant. Mexico agrees with you! 💕

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for the kind words and following along with us. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@davidchilton4301]

Nice orientation to San Miguel de Allende and Mexico in general, which figures into our retirement plans. As of now, I expect to spend 3 months in language school next summer to finally get over the hump with my Spanish.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks so much and glad you enjoyed it. Good luck with the Spanish school. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@ListerBliss]

Have you picked a language school to attend? Wondering which ones to narrow down to.

[@RetirementTravelers]

@@ListerBliss No, we weren’t there long enough on this stay. John and Bev

[@1EQUALS-INFINITY]

You'll be most welcome here brother.

[@RetiredNomadAdventures]

Thanks for taking us along! We are really interested in learning more about this beautiful place! Your video was very informative!

[@RetirementTravelers]

Glad you enjoyed it! It's a wonderful spot in the world! John & Bev

[@retirementbudgettravel699]

Wonderful video! San Miguel looks amazing! Thank you for sharing! 😁👍🏼

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for watching! It was such a fun place to visit. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@renatoperez7911]

Im in love with this town 🤩💟🤩🤩🤩🤩 everything its good 💯💯💯💯💯💯💯

[@RetirementTravelers]

We're in love with it too! John & Bev

[@SoloRetirementwithLydia]

Beautiful! I've never heard of this town. I'll have to give it a visit!

[@RetirementTravelers]

It is one of the top rated cities in the world for US and Canadian expats. We plan to make more trips down there over the coming years. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@SoloRetirementwithLydia]

@@RetirementTravelers I really like that it's close enough to the U.S., not too hot, and so charming! The only prohibitive part for me for long-term living is learning Spanish better. French is my second language and, while I know some basic Spanish, it will require some focus to learn a third language. But maybe!

[@mishu3271]

Hi guys. Another excellent video! 🥇

[@mishu3271]

My question seem to get cut off. Does the high altitude affect people’s health? I have CHF and wondered if it would limit me. SMA has been on my bucket list forever. Mx feels like a second home to me.

[@RetirementTravelers]

We didn't have any issues, but typically takes some adjustment to altitude if you are used to it. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@Anonymous-One1]

That looks like a beautiful place! I had never heard of it. I learn so much by watching your videos! It was a bit surprising that it is 6200' in altitude. Thank you for sharing the information you learned.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Glad you enjoyed it! There is a large area of central Mexico that is higher elevation. Fun place that you should put on your bucket list. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@lauragasque4292]

A very large part of central Mexico is situated at similar altitude.

[@MEANJEAN2U]

Hello Bev and John! I was hoping you would visit our beloved SMA...but when we were there! We also found it is a wonderful town with a rich cultural heritage! We love the town center with its friendly locals & many family centered events, markets with fresh produce (Chinaberry Farm). Next time you visit (see what I did there?), you must visit the pyramids, the colorful ceramics of Delores de Hildago and the hot spring/ spas!!! Happy Travels indeed! Jean- not- so -mean

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing. We had such a wonderful visit to SMA and can't wait to return and explore area cities as well. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@javierbenavides4145]

Hola excelente muy bonito el lugar gracias

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks so much. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@430LAFAYETTE]

Great intro to SMA as I hear about it constantly. It looks almost too perfect & I wonder how soon it will become flooded with expats & overtourism?

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks. It is a beautiful place. Let's hope it doesn't get too crowded. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@maryjoan4128]

Thanks so much for your beautiful video... It should be noted that immigration at airports is not an automatic 6 months tourist visa...all the Best in your next adventure

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for the info! Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@traveler65]

My husband and I were just there a couple of months ago. Very beautiful but living there 6 full months? I think I would go bananas. I don't see that there is that much to do. What is there to do there? Yes tons of beautiful restaurants (especially at night)all lit up!!!!⭐👍 but very expensive. YES...They had an awesome humongous grocery store... never seen anything like this store. Right?? Happy travels 👣

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing. Yes, that is one incredible grocery store. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@jenniferbonilla4145]

Nothing to do? That sounds fabulous after traveling 150 days/year for 30 years for work!

[@davidcattin7006]

Thank you. Would love to live there. Is the 180 days a total for a year? Then you come back to the states, or somewhere else, and get another six months?

[@RetirementTravelers]

We think it is 180 days at one time, but you would need to consult with Mexican officials on the frequency of re-entry. Happy journeys, John and Bev

[@ghilly_one1720]

ok then. your vote for "if we were ready to live as full-time expats" is the thing that gives me confidence to consider this city.

[@RetirementTravelers]

We still aren't ready for living in any one place, but we will certainly return to this wonderful city many times. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@musiccreation1198]

Uh ... I live in SMA. April & May 2024 were at 93-98 degrees every single day.

[@RetirementTravelers]

We heard there was some unusually warm weather. We are glad that isn't the norm. Thanks for sharing. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@user-bg9em7ch6k]

⁠@@RetirementTravelers Ajijic also experienced more than a month of days in the 90s… this has never happened before, and although we hope it isn’t the new normal… quien sabe?

[@Sheilawisz]

April and May are a pair of mofos really, some years they get really bad. Americans expect the heat in July, but instead it’s April and May that run a reign of terror here haha!

[@musiccreation1198]

@@Sheilawisz Indeed. 2024 was exceptionally horrible. Hopefully an outlier, but I'm moving to Europe in 18 months to 2 years.

[@Sheilawisz]

@@musiccreation1198 Good luck!

[@deansmallman2126]

The retirement visa is too expensive for the majority of expats at this time. Currently you have to prove that you have $4600.00 guaranteed income per month.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing. Perhaps snowbirding is a better option for many. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@missmayflower]

Or you can apply with your savings.

[@tyncam24]

We’re planning a to San Miguel in the Spring, do you have any recommendations for Airbnb’s?

[@RetirementTravelers]

We don't stay in Airbnb's for a variety of reasons. So, we're sorry, we don't have any. John & Bev

[@tyncam24]

@@RetirementTravelers Thanks, other recommendations?

[@livingworkingoutsidebox]

It's a beautiful town. The traffic getting in and out was a bit straining. Nothing like Mexico City though. Loved the food and art scenes.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks. We loved the food and art as well. Fortunately, traffic was too bad when we there, but it wasn't peak season. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@astargmoneynevaendz999]

San Miguel de Allende is lit

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing. John and Bev

[@ilikequiet6474]

Mexico City not far away is in the middle of a water crisis. What is the water situation in San Miguel De Allende?

[@RetirementTravelers]

It rained every day we were there and were told that they had a problem with lack of water a few months ago in CDMX, but the tropical storms and hurricanes brought in the needed water. We aren’t sure how this impacts their long-term situation. John & Bev

[@lauragasque4292]

This year the rains were very abundant, so all water reserves have increased significatively.

[@mississippiapple1078]

What's your best strategy to book repositioning cruise?

[@RetirementTravelers]

We know the general areas and timing. (i.e. cruises return from Europe to US in late fall.) We start searching by cruise company and try to find something that fits our budget, timing, and locations. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@mississippiapple1078]

@@RetirementTravelers thank you

[@elizaC3024]

Beautiful location. 😊

[@RetirementTravelers]

It really is. We loved our visit. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@myitaliantherapyginafiore4414]

Love your channel. I have spent 3 months in San Miguel in 2012. Over run with expats. Too many Gringos and it'a expensive...Not my kind of experience abroad. The whole reason is to enjoy the culture. When there are too many expats it's not the best experience. Cheers. Gina in Upstate New York USA moving to Italy/Portugal

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing your perspective. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@missmayflower]

It’s a good soft landing for new travellers. Lots of us enjoy it. You do you.

[@myitaliantherapyginafiore4414]

@@missmayflower yes it is the perfect place to get acclimated into Mexico.It's charming. My favorite part is the botanical gardens. I spent a lot of time up there

[@laurastaley7627]

Thanks for the video. Did you hear anything about the drought affecting the Mexican highlands and any effects there?

[@RetirementTravelers]

We heard a little about it, but then they got plenty of rain from a tropical storm and it rained more when we were there. They seemed to be doing much better in that area now. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@laurastaley7627]

@@RetirementTravelers Thanks! That’s great to hear.

[@anabrugos6340]

Nice video, thanks! I must be missing something. The prices of rentals and real estate you link to are very expensive. Am I missing something? Thanks

[@RetirementTravelers]

There are a wide range of options. The realtor we met with has more higher end selections. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@ParisianThinker]

Thank you for this video. Spanish language is Mexico's language. Also you must pay taxes on your US income in Mexico. Understanding Mexican culture is also very important. I am retired, and prefer France over Mexico.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing your perspective. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@tommckinney1489]

thanks for the video. If you become a permanent resident, I assume you're still a US citizen and get to keep your passport?

[@RetirementTravelers]

Yes and yes. We would never lose our US citizenship. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@dcole6328]

I heard that San Miguel has deep holes in the walkways and lots of people break legs and bones. I had actually signed up for an art workshop but cancelled it because I did not want to be returning home in cast. No problem? And I heard there are very few banisters to go up and down stairs.. True?

[@RetirementTravelers]

The USA is hands down most ADA compliant; with that said, every location in Central and South America has issues for people with mobility issues. We didn’t encounter holes we could fall in, but the sidewalks are often cobble stones and there are tripping hazards from time to time, just like in Europe or Asia, but it’s not worse than those places. We hope you take a chance and visit yourself! John & Bev

[@Chelalagringa]

A person needs to pay attention when walking on the sidewalks. The cobblestone sidewalks are narrow and become very slippery when it rains.

[@dcole6328]

@@RetirementTravelers I had problems in Bulgaria because of the steep hills with cobblestones, unlike anything I have seen in the USA. They are 100's of years old and so lovely but treacherous for someone who falls easily.

[@gracealleman4102]

Then you as the retirement couple" should mention these streets difficult to walk instead of having the comments and "fans" to do it!!!

[@gracealleman4102]

​@@RetirementTravelers ya'll should have brought these dangerous walking streets up. You Replied with those with mobility issues where everyone will have a mobility issue if they're tripping Uber bad cobblestone streets, you don't have to go there to have a mobility issue. You should mention that in your commentaries and videos.

[@lindylee1139]

It’s not close enough to an international airport for me.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing. You do need to be willing to take about an hour bus ride. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@Sheilawisz]

Querétaro international airport is very close to SMA.

[@RexPonder-y6b]

Sorry but we found it more expensive than the United States and the new government is very scary now. Be careful things are changing

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing your perspective. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@holyspacemonkey]

What is scary about the new government? And are you talking about the local government or national?

[@extremeAdvil]

Are you thinking about moving there?

[@RetirementTravelers]

Probably not moving there, but we could see ourselves spending a month down there in the winter. We have so many places around the world that we enjoy. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@Frances864]

❤

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@raininmysoulwhite]

It is said and seen in the news that Mexico is dangerous, many drug cartels, many cartels, many robberies and murders, can you talk about security in Mexico? The truth is, dangers?And what is the economy like? Is it a cheap country or as expensive as Costa Rica?

[@RetirementTravelers]

From what we can tell, some areas are safe, while other areas of the country are not. It is usually related to the location of the drug cartels. Also, some areas are more expensive than others. If you stay away from touristy areas, the costs are generally lower. John and Bev

[@meridatradicional567]

I hate to rain on anyone’s parade, but with my perspective visiting San Miguel for over 50 years and living here for 30 years, I would advise taking a deep breath and consider current events and likely future developments before deciding to live here. Most of the positive things in this blog are true, but we’re also living in a time of great change. Much of what made San Miguel so attractive is also leading to a much less desirable situation. Real estate speculation has doubled the price of homes in the last two years, starting at an already high priced level in comparison with much of the country. Small condos and small homes in desirable neighborhoods are 300,000. USD, this does not compare favorably with safe college towns in many areas of the U.S., for instance. The historic center exudes charm, but you have to double your housing allowance to live in the historic center. Meanwhile, one only has to walk 10 minutes outside of the center to experience visible lack of urban planning, traffic congestion, and blight that looks a lot like inner city blight in the U.S., with a worrisome lack of water resources and conservation. But perhaps most important is the current political situation in Mexico. Reading the blog there is no mention of the political crisis and security crisis in the country. San Miguel used to be in a bubble of sorts, an artist colony in a historic village known to a few …..but the bubble is long gone, we’re part of the national economy and affected directly by everything that happens on a national level. Besides the political situation, the growing power and influence of cartels is very real, and it’s an illusion to think somehow San Miguel is an island unto itself. The perception of feeling safe is important, but when perception and reality diverge we’re in a different situation. Anyone who has lived here for a long time can recite the many instances of impunity that have affected friends and neighbors. Yes, it’s true that one can be a victim of crime in the U.S., the difference here is widespread impunity. I have come to believe that the greatest challenge for foreigners to live here and do well is the lack of language skills, combined with a lack of knowledge about real political and social currents affecting the country and our locality. Enjoy the enticing blogs, but also read the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Forbes, and English language versions of El Financiero and other serious Mexican news sources. Mexico is a complex country with many challenges, and many issues of concern for foreign residents.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing your perspective and experience. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@infolandsend]

Great content! As expats living in Mexico for over 15 years, we love seeing resources like this that help others navigate life here. We specialize in expat health insurance tailored for Mexico and would love to explore a collaboration with you to bring even more value to your audience. Let us know if you’re interested in connecting!

[@ElizabethCastañeda-i6u]

Inmigrantes ❌ Expats ✅

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@mysticheart4685]

Definitely immigrants.

[@thinkpositive550]

Whatever you do, don't move to Costa Rica and waste savings on living.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing your perspective. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@crisriver6442]

No, please do not come to Mexico, you guys make it incredibly expensive for us to live here

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing your perspective. John and Bev

[@champigranja1179]

Ustedes se llaman "expats", para nosotros son simples migrantes.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Ok.

[@Sheilawisz]

Expats are luxury migrants. They are privileged, plain and simple. That’s why prices in places like SMA are so high, because we know they are loaded. People should just accept it and stop commenting the same thing in every video of this kind.

[@champigranja1179]

@@Sheilawisz No, te juro que en México nadie les llama así. Decimos "migrantes" o "gringos retirados", pero jamás usamos la palabra "expatriados".

[@Sheilawisz]

@@champigranja1179 Toda mi vida les hemos dicho gringos, y ya. Puede que sean canadienses, pero igual les decimos así. Personalmente, yo les digo la gringada. Antes no había tantos como ahora, por eso lo de expat es algo reciente. Mi punto es que existe una gran diferencia entre esta gente, y los migrantes comunes. Qué importa si les gusta llamarse expats, al final es verdad que ellos están en su propia categoría socioeconómica.

[@j.whisper2379]

Gringoland in Mexico! Expensive!

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@johnkennettle7567]

I'm not sure what they mean by pedestrian friendly. It's got narrow, uneven sidewalks and cobblestone roads that are very uneven. If you ask any doctor at a hospital, they'll tell you the most common reason for visits to the hospital is people falling down. That said, I live here and love it, but not because it's pedestrian friendly. Ha, ha, Not exactly an objective video. It looks like a paid ad for San Miguel.😛

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for your feedback and no we didn't get paid. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@MrZackaro]

welcome to San Miguel, but you are immigrants, don't try to change the reality, Expats is a joke word ahahaha immigration is for everyone not just for latinos.

[@RetirementTravelers]

Thanks for your feedback. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/

[@holyspacemonkey]

I agree. It irritates me the way Americans can’t seem to acknowledge that we migrate to other countries just like other people. Even if it’s for retirement, if you’re American and you move to another country with no plans to return to the US soon, you’re an immigrant!