These Guys Retired Early in Mexico (Before Age 50.)

[@cindyk3076]

I love your interviews, Brighton, and I love Craig and KJ! This was fun!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you Cindy. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!! This interview was a BLAST! KJ

[@Resmith18SR]

Who else agrees with me that they look like they could be twin brothers? They even dress alike.

[@MariaGonzalez-zt4oy]

True!

[@Resmith18SR]

@@MariaGonzalez-zt4oy They say that dog owners look like or start to look like their dogs. I've noticed that a lot of married couples both gay and straight look like each other.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

They totally look like brothers. I had to keep track of their shirt color to remember who is who ;-)

[@Resmith18SR]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Amazing isn't it?

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

We get that all the time. One of my Mexican friends told me - "You know you gringos all look alike!" LOL

[@davebaker489]

As my Dad approached 55 he started talking retirement. They (Mom & Dad) bought a place in Boynton Fla. then the place in Nova Scotia. Then he (literally) invited Mom to retire with him and move to NS summers and Fla. winters. He never looked back and loved every moment until his health quickly went down hill. Had he waited his life would not have been near as fulfilling. If you can do it NOW. If you can't FIND a way. I wish you guys all the best and nothing but. P n D

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you so much! Yes, I lost my dad when he was 60 and I watched so many people work until their end and they regretted not seeing more of the world, so I decided very young to design my life to do it differently. Thanks! KJ

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for sharing! Sounds like Pam and Dave need to get their butts to Mexico!

[@davebaker489]

I do understand. Before Dad reached 55 he had lost 2 brothers and several good friends. Thus he wanted to retire while he still was alive and could enjoy life. Kinda like Dooglas & Esperanza Live before you die.@@TrulyRemarkableLife

[@davebaker489]

You are right (sorta). But the ever ready bunny next door keeps on going. I promised Dad I would look after Mom as he died in my arms. It's not a promise I take lightly. @@AlmostRetiredinMexico

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Ohhh… I have a video for you coming soon. Actually, 2 videos. Elder care in Mexico and Bringing Mom to Mexico. Does she play bridge? KJ and Craig can hook her up!

[@dianaj3139]

Nice work Brighton! You discovered the amazing Craig and KJ! These guys have the ability to create a sense that I have known them for years not days! When I saw some of the terrific stories on their KZbin channel I wasn't terribly surprised that you found them! They are good people and show the best side of Lake Chapala and the happy environment there... I was hoping to get over there my last trip of nearly 2 months but got rather caught up in the daily life in Puebla once again... but Chapala is on my list for the next trip. Great stuff guys!!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!! 😊

[@dianaj3139]

@@TrulyRemarkableLife Hope to meet ya in Person someday... :)

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

That would be great!

[@reefglider]

You guys are so loving, sweet and respectful with one another. Very nice energy! Loved hearing your story. Thank you!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you so much for watching

[@pedrozatravel]

Great interview, thank you for sharing. Great to see how different people make their retirement.

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

😍👍

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you!

[@LC-bk7zw]

Funny how many of the people I follow on here end up meeting in person. But I was surprised you didn't ask/show the costs (rent, utilities...) like you do in all your other interviews. It is one of the main reasons why I love to watch your videos. You are even open about your own costs of your personal place, which I greatly appreciate. I like Craig and KJ, but never understood why they don't like to talk about their rental cost.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I tried to get Craig and KJ to reveal their rent, but they weren't budging ;-) Some folks are private about stuff like that, and they also seem to be getting a deal from their landlord so it might not be representative of average costs. I just released a rental video (for La Paz) and I learned that rents vary widely. One couple was paying less than half what their neighbor paid for an identical unit.

[@LC-bk7zw]

Which is odd because they discuss most of their other expenses on their channel. Also, they did mention whet they paid in the US and then mentioned that they pay almost 1/3 that, so it's not hard to figure it out. ; ). Again, one doesn't have to say exactly, but a ball park is always appreciated. I know I watch most of the videos on Mexico to get a better idea of the cost of things and always appreciate you asking and sharing that information. I did watch the La Paz video you mentioned, and was shocked at what the guy upstairs was paying for almost an identical place just below. Crazy... Thx again for your in depth videos!!! @@AlmostRetiredinMexico

[@Aiday2008]

Yeah, that's why I'm not watching anymore

[@susans7091]

Very helpful video! Thanks to the three of you:) I just don't want to live near so many expats that are mostly interested in speaking English. The climate sounds wonderful. I wonder if there are other small towns near there where the culture and residents are vast majority Mexican? I would like to be immersed. I am 77 and started learning Spanish at 69! But it definitely needs improvement. What would be ideal for me : I would love to live in a small town in Mexico that has a Spanish language school where I could attend to improve my Spanish and do a homestay so that I am immersed, I would also be glad to do English tutoring while I am there.

[@dlwilliamson5644]

So happy to learn that you are still learning! Yaay team Susans7091 (I turn 59 in 2 weeks).

[@PaulL66]

Fantastic collaboration, Brighton. Really enjoyed the videos on both channels. Thank you!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad you enjoyed them! Thanks for watching!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!!

[@jackbaldwin3649]

Another excellent interview Brighton!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you, Jack!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!

[@jackbaldwin3649]

@@TrulyRemarkableLife Thank you!! My partner and I are looking forward to watching your videos as well. Ajijic is definitely on our short list for possible retirement destinations.

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

It's awesome!! KJ

[@jguritus]

Love these guys!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Me too!

[@jmac3327]

Thank you for this interview.

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

This interview with Brighton was an absolute blast!! KJ

[@jorgeg1000]

Hey Brighton, you are the man, great work

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you Jorge!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

He's awesome, isn't he? :-)

[@edmourgagnon1504]

Good luck to you guys. Hay que aprender español ahora...

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Gracias! Aprendemos mucho aqui! KJ

[@mimi1o8]

How different from the USA, I met people that lived in the 🇺🇸 for decades and they don’t speak English.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Si. Claro que si!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@mimi1o8 The suggestion is to learn Spanish, but unfortunately, most people from the US and Canada living in Mexico don't speak Spanish. My guess is that people from Mexico moving north are far more likely to learn English and people from the US moving south are to learn Spanish.

[@MonteBell-zg8kg]

Thanks! Very cool guys!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!! 😊

[@kd8199]

Great interview! Thank you.

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@MariE-go7ol]

What fantastic men! Love them and their story!! 😊

[@BlackOpal_Rising]

I’ve watched about 4 of these videos in a row and I am sold. I’ve always wanted to retire abroad. And I have lived abroad before. Retire by 55 is my goal. I’m 48 now, so I just have to start the planning now. These videos totally let me know how possible it is. Thank you 😊

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I love to hear this. Anything is possible when you look beyond the ordinary!

[@simply_nd_a]

I'm loving your videos!! What would be the most affordable safe place you can recommend for a 45 year old single female. I'm not a nightlife type and live pretty simply. A plus for something within reach to the beach.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I'm a fan of La Paz (where I live part time.) Great beaches nearby. Family friendly (but there is some nightlife.) Not touristy. Still pretty affordable. I know a number of single women living here.

[@simply_nd_a]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you so much!

[@nadiamoajir7132]

I am 66 years old from Canada and also thinking in retiring somewhere in Mexico warm beside the beach and affordable

[@francescastruita694]

I love KJ and Craig! Great to see you guys!

[@marytyndall8044]

It did my heart good when I saw the dog wall. I was there two years ago. Thank you.

[@tangoist4]

useful video

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks much!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!

[@Kiwiwanderer]

Can you please show more 1 berm accommodation in and near La Paz and some other good places - costs etc

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I have a rentals in La Paz video coming soon.

[@belliott4844]

Beautiful house!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!

[@josecuriel1328]

They make a good couple 😮congratulations

[@TheHec34]

I need help to retire in Mexico. I retired in 2022 and work more now to be able to keep up w daily expenses. Where do I start 😳

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Watching KZbin is a great start. Mexico Relocation Guide is a wonderful product and YT channel.

[@dandee831]

Mexico Relocation Guide is worth joining.

[@wjstophere]

Great video! Oh I hope to retire in 5 years 🤞🏼. Never heard of this area before but sounds very interesting.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Follow their channel to learn more about Ajijic. It’s a great little town - you’d love it.

[@dianavillasenor8238]

I’m not sure if it was mentioned , but approximately how much is the Townhouse monthly? It’s a beautiful area , love the house!!! Always love your vids Brighton !

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

The rent for these types of townhomes vary - especially depending on location. But in Ajijic proper, you could expect to pay between $800 -$1100 USD/ mo for something similar, depending on location.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks y’all!

[@Mongoose-ct6us]

How is Jalisco doing these days? How are the beaches in Puerto Vallarta compared to La Paz? Thanks in advance. Saludos

[@jerrycallender7604]

Today IS the 'future'!

[@eelfood]

Right on!!!!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thank you!

[@santyserra]

I think to retire and travel around the world 🌎 congratulations have fun guys 🎉

[@kfergus3662]

I’m thinking about it

[@patrickbodine1300]

Do you need a passport in order to visit Mexico?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yes

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@howard9691 is that to re-enter the US?

[@penelopegreenland3537]

Is the lake clean?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Not so much :-(

[@Yellowrose3737]

How is the safety in Mexico.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Very safe in most areas that foreigners choose to live. Not too many foreigners choosing to move to areas that are controlled by warring cartels!

[@deedeew4040]

How much do they pay in rent?

[@bettymartinez8118]

Could you please send me a list of homes for sale in the mid $150,000 please .

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

There's one for $165,000 here: www.accesslakechapala.com/for-sale-listings/ You'll probably find better deals on Facebook Marketplace. That's more common for locals to post there.

[@rose10425]

THANK YOU FOR THIS VIDEO, VERY INTERESTING AND INFORMATIVE. I HAVE A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS. JUST RETIRED, NEWBY TRAVELER HERE. MY DAUGHTER AND I ARE PLANNING A 2 WEEK VACATION TO MEXICO EITHER IN NOVEMBER OR JANUARY 2025. WE DONT WANT TO MAKE IT TOO COMPLICATED SINCE IT WILL BE NEW FOR US BOTH. WE WERE THINKING 2-3 CITIES OR AREAS TO VISIT; ONE OFCOURSE BEING A BEACH AREA. IM A FAN OF SMALLER CITIES, ART, CULTURE, FOOD, LIFESTYLE AND COOLER TEMPS AND MORE MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN AND OFCOURSE THE BEACHES. WE WOULD KIND OF LIKE THESE AREAS CLOSER TO EACH OTHER AND OFCOURSE SAFETY A MUST..... THANKS AGAIN FOR ANY INFO OR RESOURSES TO CHECK OUT. WHO KNOWS, IT COULD TURN INTO A RELOCATION... IM READY!!!!

[@63saruman]

After watching some of your interviews, what would some Americans do without Mexico? And what would some Mexicans do without the US? It's a symbiotic relationship.

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

I agree it is a very symbiotic relationship on so many levels! KJ

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@TrulyRemarkableLife Exactly - the countries are closely tied together. I just wish everyone could appreciate that!

[@kd8199]

No matter which direction people cross the border, they all have the same goal. They want to make life better for themselves and their families. ❤

[@aripg359]

Is that true retirement? Are they receiving retirement income? Or they just stopped working early?

[@tcb1017]

Ok, for the record nobody get's retirement income as we all may think of SSA or whatever. But people who ok in their own saying that they retire early lives on their own investments or getting an income from like you tube or teaching english or whatever to live on. Hopefully this answers your question. Earliest as getting a so called retirement from ok SSA is being 62 when you then get the minimum. And getting as they say if you have paid in to it that medicare you need to be 65.

[@tcb1017]

So, they retired from their jobs not retiring getting SSA.

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Correct - retirement can mean a multitude of things, not just drawing SSI. We have a monthly retirement income from our previous careers that we are able to draw prior to SSI retirement age.

[@nala3038]

@@TrulyRemarkableLifeit’s SS not SSI, two completely different programs.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@nala3038 is correct. KJ was talking about SS (Social Security, which can be taken overseas) vs SSI (Supplemental Security Income, which cannot be taken overseas.) I'm not sure who was in charge of naming two programs with almost the same initialism. But the point remains that you don't need to draw government money to retire. You can even take out your private retirement savings before you turn 55 without penalties. (with a 72(t) SEPP) BTW, I have a video that talks about SSDI and SSI in Mexico: kzbin.infozIl0KMq3hpQ

[@funride58]

i didn't hear how much the rent wasn't???

[@roundpaws]

You didn’t say what their rent is which you usually do

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

KJ and Craig were kinda private about that. But, they replied "In Ajijic proper, you could expect to pay between $800 -$1100 USD/ mo for something similar, depending on location."

[@ChristopherAlanUSA]

🥹😳🥹 Glad that expat LGBTQ 🏳️‍🌈 is there in Ajijic 👍 Thanks for sharing 🙏🙏🙏

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yup. And I have another video coming soon about being LGBTQ in Mexico. it's a couple that Craig and KJ connected me to in Ajijic.

[@ChristopherAlanUSA]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico 🙏Thank you so much my friend 🙏

[@lmgbebe]

Are they a couple???

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yes, they are.

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Yes - we've been together 12 years

[@lmgbebe]

Awesome couple. Love the content on living and retiring in Mexico

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

@@lmgbebe Thank you so much! 😍

[@dandee831]

They’re so cute together.

[@ElreyRayo]

Im next @ 62😅

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

It's never too late to retire early!

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Woo Hoo!!

[@kimkuks6370]

SO A COUPLE IDEAS..1. .Interview a lesbian couple, and 2. like your male version of your dating in Mexico, do one from a woman's point of view either with expats or with Mexican men.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for the suggestions - I have a lesbian couple coming up. And I have a friend (famale) marrying a Mexican guy this spring. Maybe I can interview her!

[@franciscomedina3522]

A jiji it’s to spend se

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yes - more expensive than a lot of Mexico.

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Ajijic is more expensive than alot of Mexico, but it's less expensive than some areas too.

[@elunico13]

I retired in Ajijic younger. Part 2 😂

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

How young?

[@elunico13]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico 42. I know a lot of the young crowd here that may be of interest to you. I just discovered your channel.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@elunico13 43 is a great age to retire! I don’t have any current plans to return to Aiijic (so much of Mexico I still need to explore) but I want to return to Ajijic with my wife at some point.

[@elunico13]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Enjoy your travels and creating great videos

[@georginadominguez7113]

are you guys a couple.??

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Yes - we've been together over 12 years. ❤

[@edmourgagnon1504]

Oh...

[@richardlynch1094]

Great to see some gay expats. Just wondering if any other bears thought that Brighton looks just like a boy version of Laura Linney. Like twins separated at birth similar. Come clean Brighton! Lol

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks Richard. I think I see the similarity! I'll take that as a complement ;-)

[@richardlynch1094]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico please do! Laura is a gay icon! :)

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

ROFL!!! I didn't see it before, but now I can't unsee it!! I guess your wife will be concerned if I start calling you Laura??? KJ

[@retrodesignworkshop9429]

There is no country called "Mexico" and there never has been. At first Mexico was called "Empire of Mexico, a year later it was called "Mexican Republic" and we had several names. Now we are "Unites States of Mexico". Wha is Mexico then? For me Mexico is a State-of-being, and its territory is in the hearts of those who love this country.

[@Resmith18SR]

I've lived here in Mexico for many years and I think the vast majority of Mexican people are very proud of their country. They do think of Mexico as a country.

[@retrodesignworkshop9429]

You are talking to a mexican one. I don't say my country doesn't exist. I'm saying that the real Mexico is much profound. You know in spanish language "ser" is one thig and "estar" is an other thing. . If I sey "Estado de ser" I taking about an spiritual thing. If you lived in Mexico and you had contact with mexicans, especially those that come from the original towns, like mixtecos, zapotecos or nahuas. You become a little Mexican. That is why Mexico is a nation that has no limits.@@Resmith18SR

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Mexico is very dynamic and rich with many different regional cultures and histories. It is amazing!

[@Heywood.Jablome]

😂😂😂

[@tidy]

🏳️‍🌈❤

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

Thanks!! ❤

[@stinksterrekerinski4450]

Why do I smell cheap wine when I listen to your videos?

[@TrulyRemarkableLife]

LOL