Babs G.
American expat in Mexico
Forum posts
81
Contacts
22
About me
American
Speaks English, Spanish
Registration: 10 August 2014
New but not2 MX--looking for my soulmate city by myhomemycountry
I need some good info and advice. I am retired professional with some health problems looking for a final destination. I have been all over MX, but not recently. If you can help with suggestions or good advice, I would be happy. Here is what I am ...
Check out Veracruz--Coate[ec. Xico, San Marcos--all within easy reach of Xalapa for big city stuff, including a world class orchestraa. No beach, but great climate at about 4000 feet altitude. Read More
Expat in Mexico considering relocating by searun
Hello. I'm an American living on the Oaxacan coast these past 5 years. I love Mexico. Change is inevitable, and my slice of paradise made for me a major change. Covid restrictions were ignored in what was a relaxed town with a nice balance of ...
You might want to try moving away from the coast. I lived on the beach in Quintana Roo for 13 years, but we got tired of the heat and the tourists everywhere. Did some research and discovered a small city in Veracruz that is ideal. The tourists are ... Read More
Most Mild Climate? by Tony_Amigo
Hi everybody. My first post here. What cities/regions have the mildest climates in Mexico? I am not a fan of intense heat and humidity, and know that parts of Peru and Ecadour have cooler climates. What about Mexico? Gracias!
I agree with both Travellight and Mexicogc and would add the hills behind Veracruz. Coatepec, Xico, Teocelo, all deserve a look, and if you like larger cities, Xalapa. Not as cold or as high as Zacatecas, and sometimes a little humid, but I have ... Read More
Life as a female expat in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello, While moving to a new country and discovering new cultures is definitely an exciting adventure, everybody experiences it differently. It can be particularly different for women, in both positive and negative ways. What are some positive ...
I agree totally with Travellight. As a woman who lived here with a husband for many years, and now as a widow living alone (cats don't count) for six years, I saw no change in attitude with my change in status. People have been unfailingly ... Read More
Auto deposits to Mexican banks by jim&nyna
How do we handle US Social Security and pension deposits while living in Mexico? Can we open a local bank account without residency status? We'd like to use pesos and avoid any fees on transferring from dollars to pesos.
For several years now, I've had my social security deposited directly to my Mexican bank account (Santander). I have had no problem, but in order to set it up I had to register my Mexican address. As I recall, I also had to stop by the embassy ... Read More
Intercultural relationships in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share some fun anecdotes and information regarding intercultural marriages and relationships in Mexico. This will provide some insight to current and future expats regarding relationship norms in mixed relationships and ...
For 25 years in Quintana Roo and in Veracruz I have never had a Mexican family abuse my hospitality! I've never heard of anything like that either, and I frequently eat out with Mexican friends. No one joins us unless specifically invited. Read More
long time resident seeks advice from other long-timers by CasaColibri
I refuse to call us "old-timers"! That brings up an image of toothless dotterers. (My apologies to any denture-wearers or jubilados... Is there a specific word in Spanish for long-time expats?? Like "sourdoughs in Alaska? ...
I think it probable that anyone who has been here as long as you (and I) have will have become happily entrenched in their niches. Your cohousing plan is interesting, but except for the possibility of visiting to see how it works, I don’t plan ... Read More
Best city with interesting surroundings by SpaceLobster
Hi, So I am thinking of moving to Mexico but I am not sure where exactly yet. I was thinking of Playa del Carmen but I am afraid there isn’t much to do beyond beach activities and the nightlife. My fiancée is a photographer so she wants ...
Hi Chris-- Guanajuato is all very well, and I'm sure it's a nice place, but I recommend Coatepec, Veracruz as the ideal. Small, yet close to a larger town (Xalapa) which has a world-class symphony, an excellent museum, and several ... Read More
naturalizing as a mexican with a mexican born child
I have been a naturalized Mexican since 2008, but I have no Mexican children. I am also a widow, living alone; my husband was not naturalized. A different situation, but I might be able to help. I do know someone who became a Mexican after giving ... Read More
What's the cost of lunch in cheap cafes/market?
Comida corrida in Coatepec, Veracruz is 50 pesos in several places. Taco stands and the counters in the market cost less. Read More
growing garden in Mexico by Itobys
Since I am still trying to figure out the best place to move, I wanted to ask this question. I like to eat healthy, lots of fruits and veggies. I know they are cheap in Mexico but having my small farm is my ultimate goal. After travelling for a year ...
Things are a little different in the hills. I have a friend with a small coffee farm; she also grows tomatoes and strawberries. I have a really small garden, mostly full of flowers, but I do grow basil, ginger and curcuma. I couldn't grow ... Read More
How have you dealt with the earthquake
Even though the epicenter was in the Pacific Ocean, we felt it in the Veracruz hills. A full minute of gentle rocking woke me about midnight, A friend called from Xalapa, and my current house guest came in to talk for a while. It was some time ... Read More
Why have you chosen the place to live that you have chosen. by travellight
People thinking about moving to Mexico often are not sure what would be the best place for them. Those of us who have chosen a place to live in might help with those decisions by sharing our process, Each of us has made a decision to live in a ...
John and I came to Mexico to SCUBA dive, and lived on the east coast in Paamul from 1993 to 2000. Then we moved down the coast to Puerto Aventuras for the next 7 years, still diving sometimes. In 2007, we stopped diving and discovered it was too hot ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Try Paamul. 50 or so miles south of Cancun, 12 south of Playa. My husband and I lived there on the beach from 1993 to 2000, in a trailer with a palapa. Things there have become a lot more fancy these days, but it's still a lovely place, I'm ... Read More
Inquiring by Leener
Hello everyone, I was so excited to find this forum. I would be driving from Florida which sounds gutsy just seeing it on the screen! I have so many questions...SS, Medicare, doctors, housing, cost of living, schooling/homeschooling, electronics, ...
Leener: Tried to send you a personal message, but got a message saying you had disabled personal messages? Is that so? Read More
Inquiring by Leener
Hello everyone, I was so excited to find this forum. I would be driving from Florida which sounds gutsy just seeing it on the screen! I have so many questions...SS, Medicare, doctors, housing, cost of living, schooling/homeschooling, electronics, ...
Okay, at the risk of adding to your confusion, let me tell you about one Mexican mountain town. I live in Coatepec, Veracruz. Enough of everything here--two schools with English, a great organic market on Saturdays and the regular market is probably ... Read More
Full Time RV'rs in Mexico by rovtype
My wife and I are planning to relocate from Texas to the Quintana Roo area of Mexico. We had planned on buying a Class A Diesel Pusher to live in and travel in Mexico, Central America and the USA. I was hoping to connect with expats or visitors ...
Puerto Aventuras is a gated community 12 miles south of Playa del Carmen, full of condos and private homes. Fully developed, with a school (English and Spanish) and lots of hotels and restaurants. Paamul is still a trailer park two miles north of ... Read More
Full Time RV'rs in Mexico by rovtype
My wife and I are planning to relocate from Texas to the Quintana Roo area of Mexico. We had planned on buying a Class A Diesel Pusher to live in and travel in Mexico, Central America and the USA. I was hoping to connect with expats or visitors ...
When my husband and I retired in the early 1990s, we decided we’d like a change of scenery. We lived in Seattle, and John didn’t really want to leave the comforts of home. We bought a 27’ motor home to solve that problem, and it ... Read More
Naturalisation and citizenship in Mexico by Bhavna
Hello everyone, What are the requirements for acquiring citizenship in Mexico? For example, length of residence, language requirements, employment etc.. What formalities are involved in the process? What is the policy on dual-citizenship in ...
teoaztec--they kept your birth certificate!!!! That's shocking. I always get my original papers back, and they always want originals for everything. They may keep them for a while, but they have to give them back. I have been a citizen since ... Read More
Cave of the Crystals - Travel Information / accommodations...
The Cave of the Crystals in Naica, Mexico, to the best of my knowledge, is closed to the public. Located 1,000 meters below the surface, humid, and so hot it can only be visited for a few minutes, it is sometimes available to scientists. I have ... Read More
Having a car in Mexico by travellight
I thought it would be helpful to find out what has been your experience with having a car. How do you get repairs done and what did it cost ? What about tires ? are you getting them more often and where is the best place to get them ? Do you ...
I have always had a car in Mexico. Until 2013, I never flew to the states; my husband and I always drove, either a motor home or a car. After I was widowed, I bought a new small car for myself, a red Toyota Yaris. I have been happy with it. It still ... Read More
How to drive through mexico by vantravels
Hi all, I am a Canadian looking to drive from the USA to Central America and am quite nervous about driving through Mexico in July 2017. I have heard both good and bad but with all the upset going on between the US and Mexico right now I am worried ...
"I am a Canadian looking to drive from the USA to Central America and am quite nervous about driving through Mexico in July 2017. " I would be much more nervous about driving through some parts of Central America! My husband and I ... Read More
is it true ? too much robberies ? by moreto62
posted by cathy Dupree 2 months ago I live in Ajijic which is beautiful but want to give another slant on living in Mexico. I am leaving after 5 years because my partner died and the mess that was left with no will was magnified by the corrupt ...
I was in San Miguel last week for a conference, and it is a little uncomfortable for me. Having lived on the east coast for 14 years, I enjoy the proximity of the sea, but don't require it all the time. We are not a tourist town, though, which ... Read More
Considering Moving to Mexico; complex medical issues - please advise by Professor_X
Hello (I am cross-posting this in part from another forum and hope that is okay), I am widely traveled and am not sure where to post, precisely, to a particular country forum since I am open to the issue of expatriating and do not have a particular ...
I think we are straying from the topic; why don't we get back to Professor X and her problems? Read More
Considering Moving to Mexico; complex medical issues - please advise by Professor_X
Hello (I am cross-posting this in part from another forum and hope that is okay), I am widely traveled and am not sure where to post, precisely, to a particular country forum since I am open to the issue of expatriating and do not have a particular ...
The first one of the articles Katzgar cited was from July 1, 1930. Another is an incident from 2012, I think that's digging a little too deep. I have lived in Mexico for 23 years, and have traveled widely. I have not seen or experienced any ... Read More
is it true ? too much robberies ? by moreto62
posted by cathy Dupree 2 months ago I live in Ajijic which is beautiful but want to give another slant on living in Mexico. I am leaving after 5 years because my partner died and the mess that was left with no will was magnified by the corrupt ...
We looked at houses in Merida in 2007, found it too hot and too crowded for us. It's also not on the water, which is something you wanted. Coatepec, where I live now, has great weather if you don't mind a little winter chill. It also has ... Read More
Speaking Spanish in Mexico by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Spanish is essential for a successful integration in Mexico. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Spanish? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
Duolingo is my favorite. Very diverse opportunities for learning. Read More
is it true ? too much robberies ? by moreto62
posted by cathy Dupree 2 months ago I live in Ajijic which is beautiful but want to give another slant on living in Mexico. I am leaving after 5 years because my partner died and the mess that was left with no will was magnified by the corrupt ...
I lived in a palapa on the beach for 7 years, diving every time I could; then down the beach in a condo for another 7 (in Quintana Roo). We moved in 2007 to Coatepec, Veracruz for the climaate, since we weren't diving anymore. When my husband ... Read More
is it true ? too much robberies ? by moreto62
posted by cathy Dupree 2 months ago I live in Ajijic which is beautiful but want to give another slant on living in Mexico. I am leaving after 5 years because my partner died and the mess that was left with no will was magnified by the corrupt ...
Travellight, I have had almost the same experiences, except I've lived in Mexico for 23 years, and in 4 places. :) Read More
Backlash against US citizens in Mexico since the election? by CaribeGal
For those of you from the US and already in Mexico, I am curious as to whether you have experienced any negative comments or other forms of backlash against US citizens following the election, given the president-elect's comments about Mexicans ...
I have had a similar experience, Travellight. The merchants I deal with in the mercado are all sympathetic. The people I meet downtown are all consoling, and ask how such a thing could happen. I am not too concerned, as I've been here for 23 ... Read More
Are you happy in Mexico? by Priscilla
Hello everyone! According to the 2016 UN World Happiness Survey, Denmark, Switzerland and Iceland are the happiest countries on earth. How about you? Are you happy in Mexico? Do you feel happier today in your host country than before in your ...
In Mexico since 1993; citizen since 2007. I don't plan to leave. I have lived in many places in the world, but Mexico is my home. Read More
Thinking about moving to Lake Chapala for retirement- from San Diego by blondee
I am living in San Diego and looking forward to retirement. I am seriously thinking about mexico. I used to cross the border back in my youth when things were so much different. Spent a few vacations in Puerto Vallarta. I want simple and happy ...
Mountain towns? Take a look at Coatepec, Veracruz. Close to Xalapa but not too close, 4000 feet, and the climate is delightful. We grow coffee and orchids. Rjight now it's mango season. Always something going on here or in the surrounding small ... Read More
Moving to Mexico with a Cat and no Car by nikolas4squid
I've been looking around the forums for an answer to the various parts of my questions, but I don't seem to becoming up with exactly what I want to know. When I move, I won't be bringing tons of stuff- just my clothes, a couple of ...
With cats, I think we are their comfort creatures. Read More
Moving to Mexico with a Cat and no Car by nikolas4squid
I've been looking around the forums for an answer to the various parts of my questions, but I don't seem to becoming up with exactly what I want to know. When I move, I won't be bringing tons of stuff- just my clothes, a couple of ...
There are legitimate comfort dogs--you can't tell just by looking why they are needed. I'm sure they had some sort of paperwork to prove the dog was necessary. But airlines do allow cats and dogs below a certain size to fly in the cabin in ... Read More
Moving to Mexico with a Cat and no Car by nikolas4squid
I've been looking around the forums for an answer to the various parts of my questions, but I don't seem to becoming up with exactly what I want to know. When I move, I won't be bringing tons of stuff- just my clothes, a couple of ...
Tried to send you a message, got a note saying you had disabled private messages. **** for suggestions on birding, good climate, music, etc. Read More
Moving to Mexico with a Cat and no Car by nikolas4squid
I've been looking around the forums for an answer to the various parts of my questions, but I don't seem to becoming up with exactly what I want to know. When I move, I won't be bringing tons of stuff- just my clothes, a couple of ...
Probably won't help. Jet Blue, like most of the other small airlines (Frontier, Volaris, etc.), flies into Cancun and México City. The smaller ones are more pet friendly, though. Read More
Moving to Mexico with a Cat and no Car by nikolas4squid
I've been looking around the forums for an answer to the various parts of my questions, but I don't seem to becoming up with exactly what I want to know. When I move, I won't be bringing tons of stuff- just my clothes, a couple of ...
Jet Blue has the best pet policy, but I don't know where you're headed so that might not be a good choice. Read More
Moving to Mexico with a Cat and no Car by nikolas4squid
I've been looking around the forums for an answer to the various parts of my questions, but I don't seem to becoming up with exactly what I want to know. When I move, I won't be bringing tons of stuff- just my clothes, a couple of ...
A friend just flew from Cancun to Utah with a cat--no problem, the cat was allowed in the cabin with her (in an approved carrier) and there didn't seem to be much restriction. There are airlines that welcome cats and small dogs in the cabin and ... Read More
Best Mexico Golf Communities for young retired Expat Couple by NorbertG
My wife and I are a young retired couple from Canada looking to retire in a golf community in Mexico. We intend on golfing almost every day so a course that has annual memberships is a must. We prefer the areas that are up and coming or not as busy ...
Try the area between Cancun and Akumal. I personally recommend Puerto Aventuras, a gated community on the sea with great places to live, many adjacent to the golf course. I lived there for 7 years, and still visit sometimes, even though I live in ... Read More
Where Do I want to live? by gudgrief
I have been living in Zacatecas, Zac for 7 years and enjoyed it immensely. But the years are catching up with me and the 7900' altitude and hilly terrain are wearing on me. The cold winters are getting to me too. Ideally, I like a place at ...
If you're interested in ruins, you could visit Palenque on the way. Read More
6 month Tourist Visas - Issues involved by singledd
Hello, I will be moving to Mexico... the Tulum area, soon. Initially, I will only have a Tourist Visa. I imagine that there are many people who have spent more than 6 months in Mexico, without getting anything more then the Tourist Visa. I am ...
Wow! Things must have changed a lot in the last 7 years! We used to regularly renew our visas at the town on the Mexico side called Subteniente Lopez--there was a regular window and all. Never crossed the border at all! Read More
New members of Mexico forum, introduce yourself here 4th quarter of 2015 by Julien
Newbie on Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your expat projects ...
Lots of good questions! Lets see if I can catch them all. I live now in Coatepec, Veracruz. I've been here since 2007, widowed since 2012. I am retired from the US and receive my SS directly to my Mexican bank. I sold my property in the US ... Read More
New members of Mexico forum, introduce yourself here 4th quarter of 2015 by Julien
Newbie on Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your expat projects ...
Merida is too hot for me, without the advantage of a sea breeze. It's 50 miles from the coast at Progreso. I lived in two places on the east coast for about 14 years. First for 7 years (1993-2000) in Paamul, a campground 10 or so miles south of ... Read More
Drying clothes in Mexico by Guestposter651
Does anyone use an electric clothes dryer?if so could you tell me of the running cost.The rainy season will start here soon during which time most everyone uses the lavandería to dry clothes.if the running cost is not to steep I would consider ...
I have a stacked gas washer/dryer, and although I only use the dryer when it's raining, it doesn't cost much. I have a big rooftop gas tank and use gas for cooking and the dryer, altogether about 1500 pesos a year. Read More
The letter in Spanish required for residente temporal by travellight
The letter in Spanish required for residente temporal. Do any of you know about this requirement ? If so what is the format, what are they looking for ? A letter of intent or ? Any experienced response appreciated.
I didn't know there was such an impuesto! Doesn't include pensions, does it? Read More
The letter in Spanish required for residente temporal by travellight
The letter in Spanish required for residente temporal. Do any of you know about this requirement ? If so what is the format, what are they looking for ? A letter of intent or ? Any experienced response appreciated.
Barry, I noticed in one of the latest US embassy bulletins that it said dual citizenship was perfectly fine. I think it depends on the interpretation of the Mexican person in each jurisdiction. I started the process in Cancun in 2005 and finally ... Read More
The letter in Spanish required for residente temporal by travellight
The letter in Spanish required for residente temporal. Do any of you know about this requirement ? If so what is the format, what are they looking for ? A letter of intent or ? Any experienced response appreciated.
When did it get so difficult? We never had to do much except the proof of solvency, passport, proof of domicile, and that letter. I became a Mexican citizen in 2007 and never worried about it again. I've also heard that becoming a citizen now is ... Read More
The letter in Spanish required for residente temporal by travellight
The letter in Spanish required for residente temporal. Do any of you know about this requirement ? If so what is the format, what are they looking for ? A letter of intent or ? Any experienced response appreciated.
I wonder if what you want is the letter we used to always write for renewal of the FM3. John and I wrote the same letter every year from about 1998 through 2012. The one we used went something like this: INSTITUTO NACIONAL DE MIGRACIÓN (Local ... Read More
what is a 'car hotel' ? by Lash
We want to drive to Cancun via Texas this November. Someone said to reserve 'car hotels' for sleeping every night. this way your car and its contents are secure while you are sleeping. Anyone heard of this?
Between Texas and Cancun, a route my husband and I drove every year between 1993 and 1998, when we moved permanently to Mexico, there are several auto hotels that I would recommend. The best ones we found were on the road before Villahermosa, and we ... Read More
Character of different cities in Mexico by ThatGuyJay
Trying to figure out where I want to move in Mexico. Things I think about what would make a city I'd like to call home - a vibrant arts and music culture - genuinely nice friendly people - a city that has stuff to do but isn't super big - ...
If you don't insist on a beach, you might be happy with Coatepec, Veracruz. A "Pueblo Mágico," Coatepec has a population of about 50,000 and comparatively few foreigners. Four rivers run through the town, and there are some ... Read More
hi - planning to live in Mexico by latebloomer
I am not sure about the place to live in , in mexico, where exactly to move, but I just saw this post by a member here.. and this seems good for me. My question is , is this a realistic estimate, if so what areas fits this budget in mexico, please ...
Utility costs depend upon where you live. I live on the edge of town and pay about $140 MX every two months for electricity, $390 MX every month for telephone and internet. I have no TV. Water has gone up this year: I now pay $500 MX a year. My ... Read More
hi - planning to live in Mexico by latebloomer
I am not sure about the place to live in , in mexico, where exactly to move, but I just saw this post by a member here.. and this seems good for me. My question is , is this a realistic estimate, if so what areas fits this budget in mexico, please ...
You might also consider the Xalapa area. Xalapa is the capital of Veracruz, and is quite metropolitan, but it is also surrounded by smaller, more economical, towms. Two of them, Coatepec and Xico, are "pueblas magicas" which means they try ... Read More
Passport and Visa going to Expire soon...!
I have always thought you become an expat the moment you cross the border out of your home country. I don't much like the term because it implies "not home" and I am very much at home in Mexico. And---congrtulations to you and your ... Read More
Residente Permanente, My Experience FWIW by gudgrief
Two months ago I went into the Zacatecas INM office and asked about the rules for changing from Temporal to Permanente. They gave me 4 xeroxed pages of step by step. When I went to work through it, I noticed that www.inm.gob.mx had changed quite a ...
INAPAM Senior Discount Card An INAPAM card is an ID card issued by the Instituto Nacional de Las Personas Adultos Mayores identifying the bearer as qualified for certain senior citizen's discounts ranging from 50% fare reductions on interstate ... Read More
hi - planning to live in Mexico by latebloomer
I am not sure about the place to live in , in mexico, where exactly to move, but I just saw this post by a member here.. and this seems good for me. My question is , is this a realistic estimate, if so what areas fits this budget in mexico, please ...
I agree that $570 seems low, but not too much if you stick to smaller towns and stay out of tourist areas. Also, small towns near big ones are pretty good, because you have the convenience of a nearby bigger town, but not the prices. I would say ... Read More
vegan in Mexico? by creativeCat
Okay, so I'm wondering how possible it is to be a bona fide vegan in Mexico. I plan not to live in the "expat bubble," but to get my groceries in local markets, eat in local restaurants/cafes. I am completely aware that I'll need ...
Yes, I have several friends who are vegan--I'm more or less vegetarian. Here in Coatepec we have many markets for fruits and veggies, all fresh, organic, and plentiful. Coatepec, Veracruz is not a tourist destination, and is hard to get to by ... Read More
Residente Permanente, My Experience FWIW by gudgrief
Two months ago I went into the Zacatecas INM office and asked about the rules for changing from Temporal to Permanente. They gave me 4 xeroxed pages of step by step. When I went to work through it, I noticed that www.inm.gob.mx had changed quite a ...
I do have IMSS insurance, but I will only use it for emergencies. I pay a little higher rate, being over 80, but private medical assistance is so economical and convenient I usually use a private doctor for the few complaints I have. Read More
Residente Permanente, My Experience FWIW by gudgrief
Two months ago I went into the Zacatecas INM office and asked about the rules for changing from Temporal to Permanente. They gave me 4 xeroxed pages of step by step. When I went to work through it, I noticed that www.inm.gob.mx had changed quite a ...
I'm surprised you don't have an INAPAM card! It has saved me a lot of money in the 15 years I've had mine. You get it from DIF, and they'll give you a list of what you need. The usual little photos, proof of residence, etc.and it ... Read More
health insurance
In April 2013, I paid $3,733.30 MN for the year. in 2014, it was $4,650. MN. I am 80. The private practitioners I have found are very good, reasonably priced, and don't require long waits. However, I will keep the IMSS in case of an accident or ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
You'll be fine, Bob! I used to drive every year, 1400 miles each way, between 1994 and 2007, from Texas to Playa del Carmen. That was before the roads were very good! I don't drive by myself, though, and not for the past few years. Be ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
I like your attitude toward speaking Spanish, but regarding expenses, there are many more things here cheaper than rent if you don't live so close to the border. I spend much less for much fresher food than I would in the states. I also find ... Read More
Internet connection in central Mexico
I use TelMex, which gives me telephone and wifi with one bill. A few problems, but nothing much. For a brief time, I had the local cable, but that didn't work as well, and included a TV hookup, useless to me as I don't have a TV. I'm ... Read More
Canadian living in Tehuacan English Teacher by mgirard
I am a Canadian English teacher living in Tehuacan. I am looking for a new placement for January 2015. I would prefer a city comparable to Tehuacan. Any suggestions.
Yay! So glad you chose Istanbul! Always wanted to go there, might get to yet. Spent 4+ years in Ethiopia in the 1970s and will never either forget or regret. Enjoy! Read More
Canadian living in Tehuacan English Teacher by mgirard
I am a Canadian English teacher living in Tehuacan. I am looking for a new placement for January 2015. I would prefer a city comparable to Tehuacan. Any suggestions.
For me, San Luis Potosi would be too big, and too high as well. 6,000 feet! Coatepec is 4,000 and the climate is just right, even a little cool in winter. There is at least one language school here, and probably a couple more in Xalapa, a short ... Read More
Canadian living in Tehuacan English Teacher by mgirard
I am a Canadian English teacher living in Tehuacan. I am looking for a new placement for January 2015. I would prefer a city comparable to Tehuacan. Any suggestions.
Of course, if I were offered Turkey, I'd be gone already! Except it's a bit dangerous right now. What's neat about Coatepec is that it's not a big city, but close enough to Xalapa so we don't have to go far for big city ... Read More
Canadian living in Tehuacan English Teacher by mgirard
I am a Canadian English teacher living in Tehuacan. I am looking for a new placement for January 2015. I would prefer a city comparable to Tehuacan. Any suggestions.
Maybe. Have you considered Coatepec? Close, about the same size, I think, with a few opportunities for teachers. Depends on what else you like to do. Read More
health insurance
I have health insurance with IMSS. I've had it for about 5 years. It's a bit of a hassle to get, with the forms and all. The price is reasonable, but I only plan on using it for emergencies, since the cost of a doctor's visit is so low. ... Read More
Dia de Los muertos! Day of the dead! Where is the best festival locate by Newbie traveler
Hello Again everyone as we all know October 31 is coming up and I want to know where is the best place in Mexico that you have celebrated this unique traditional holiday and if you could also tell me about your experiences it would be great thank ...
Most of the small-to-medium sized towns in central Mexico have Day of the Dead displays, and everyone I know has a private altar as well, full of photos and marigolds. Here in Coatepec (Veracruz highlands) there is always a display in the Palacio, ... Read More
Which towns to stop at and which to avoid ? by CWO 3 military retired
We hope to RV down to Baja Norte and check out towns with RV parks,If we like anything we may do a long term lease and bring our granddaughter whose will In the1st grade and hope to find a Bi lingual school, to attended. Our hopes will be we can ...
While you can live comfortably in Cancun or Playa on the amount you mentioned, I'd recommend you look a bit further south. Akumal is a very pleasant small town, as is Tulum. Even Puerto Aventuras (if you like a gated community) is ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Now that's a useful map, Travelight. I have been hesitant to drive to the border for a couple of years, but with this map I might be able to find a good way to go to avoid hassles. I have always (every year since it opened) crossed at Los ... Read More
Living in Rosarito Beach, Baja Ca, Mex by paxvobiscum
If you want to live well, in a Pacific coastal town, semi arid, never too hot or cold, no poisonous insects or snakes, about 40 minutes from San Diego USA, tranquil, affordable and safe...then move here. I've travelled all over Mexico, even ...
I do so agree with you and PaxVobiscum, Travelight! And I would appreciate some information about the ferry as well. My daughter and I plan to visit Baja next year. We promised ourselves to go for the whale watching the year she turned 60 and I ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
If there is a drawback to living in this area it probably is that it's hard to get to by air. The Veracruz airport is 80 miles away and difficult to drive to and from; the alternative is landing in Mexico City, followed by a 4 hour long bus ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
There's lots to do, besides hiking in the cloud forest and visiting waterfalls. This is a coffee producing area, famous also for orchids. Coatepec has an organic market every Saturday, and an artisan market at the palacio on Sundays. I run a ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Sounds to me, Chino, that you'd be much happier in Veracruz. I live in the mountains at 4000 feet, and the climate is, well, with exceptions, perfect. Range in a year between 60 and 80F. (mas o menos). Coatepec is a small town but near ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
I have driven to the coast to visit friends a couple times since moving to Coatepec. Next time I go by Campeche, I'll wave. If the ferry from Progresso starts up again, I'll be visiting the area again for sure. Since I've been here ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Thanks for the welcome, travelight. I don't know how much help I can be, but I'm always willing to try. There is a small community of expats here in Coatepec and I think I know most of them because i run an English book exchange and anyone ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourself here by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Mexico forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
I've lived in Mexico for about 20 years, the first 7 as an active SCUBA diver on the east coast, then another 7 as an occasional diver. In 2007 we moved to Veracruz for a better climate. I have been here since then and plan to stay. I am a ... Read More