SteveandMarty
American looking for information about Mexico
Forum posts
101
Contacts
3
About me
American
Speaks German, English, Spanish
Registration: 15 August 2018
Wife and I are considering our options for retirement by terriandralph
We are both 58, and are considering retiring. Currently between the both of us, our retirement checks per month total about $3000. We would sell our house to put a little aside for a rainy day fund and to eliminate any bills we are currently paying ...
O boy, can I tell you stories about traveling by RV if you're not mechanically inclined. Done it. Makes for a funny story now, years later, but my advice: DON'T DO THE RV THING. The repairs can get very expensive, few garages work on RVs ... Read More
Adopting a pet in Mexico by Loïc
Hello, Are you a dog or a cat person? A pet can add life to a home and make an ideal travel companion during your expatriation in Mexico. However, formalities or regulations might put you off traveling with your pet making adoption a better ...
We live in SMA. Different parts of the city have different dog problems. I'm sorry you had a bad experience. It's certainly safer to adopt from a shelter. Read More
Adopting a pet in Mexico by Loïc
Hello, Are you a dog or a cat person? A pet can add life to a home and make an ideal travel companion during your expatriation in Mexico. However, formalities or regulations might put you off traveling with your pet making adoption a better ...
The number of dogs on the streets appears large because many local people don't have a place for their dogs to relieve themselves, i.e. a garden. So they open the front doors, the dogs go for a walk, then return home. Of course nobody picks up ... Read More
Question about working remotely in Mexico. by Remoteworker3
I make $2400 per month (after taxes) in California. I work for a manufacturing company. I recently moved to this state 6 months ago and had to take whatever job I could find. I'm not making much right now. I worked in web design/development ...
I would not open a bank account in Mexico, though. Supposedly, if you have a Mexican bank account, you need to file a Mexican tax return, although not necessarily pay taxes. We've tried repeatedly to open a bank account in San Miguel de ... Read More
Negotiating purchase of house in SMA by Yorkgayle
My husband and I feel like we have found a great house to purchase for our future retirement and move from the US. We have bought and sold many houses in our 20+ years together so we have a lot of experience in the US market. Not sure if this ...
I haven't tried to buy, but from what the realtors say, there's a glut of houses for sale right now, and more being built every day. BUT: I was also told that that doesn't mean the sellers will come down on the price. At least ... Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
Julie, there is a no-kill SPA in town, also a cats-only shelter (Santuario Felino I think it's Macalled). I would try those first. If you absolutely cannot find a solution, let me know and we'll think of SOMEthing! Email address is *** ... Read More
Is San Miguel the place for me? by haskellbob
Hello! I am intrigued by the possibility of moving to San Miguel de Allende, and would like to communicate with you all about that. Here's a short brief about me: I'm from California. Have a BA in Humanistic Psychology from UC Santa Cruz and a ...
I've seen those "very unhealthy air quality" notices before, too, and I have no idea what that's based on. My husband has asthma which usually is in full bloom in Houston, where we live(d). Ever since arriving in SMA, he was able ... Read More
Long term rental in San Miguel de Allende by bereid710
Looking to rent a furnished house in San Miguel de Allende for a minimum of a year. At least a 2/2 w/ outdoor terrace. Moving to SMA late fall 2019/early 2020.
Kind of "catty" of you to ask, no? Read More
Housing market in San Miguel May 2019 by KLOremus
Just came home from a 10 day trip to San Miguel. My trip was mostly to educate myself on what's available for housing costs, best location for my money, price range options etc. to determine if San Miguel could be a do-able option moving ...
Well, we're looking for long-term rental right now. So if you find something, let us know and we can do it! Read More
Housing market in San Miguel May 2019 by KLOremus
Just came home from a 10 day trip to San Miguel. My trip was mostly to educate myself on what's available for housing costs, best location for my money, price range options etc. to determine if San Miguel could be a do-able option moving ...
In Houston, which is a fairly wealthy and multi-cultural city, we have lived in the barrio for 13 years now. We're the only gringos within several blocks. Our Hispanic neighbors - documented or not, who cares -- mainly from Mexico, but also a ... Read More
Housing market in San Miguel May 2019 by KLOremus
Just came home from a 10 day trip to San Miguel. My trip was mostly to educate myself on what's available for housing costs, best location for my money, price range options etc. to determine if San Miguel could be a do-able option moving ...
Yep, that tardiness and having only one or two workers show up for a couple of hours was making me nuts in Houston, too. And then that evil deal at the end, that he didn't pay his undocumented workers because he knew they had no recourse -- ... Read More
Housing market in San Miguel May 2019 by KLOremus
Just came home from a 10 day trip to San Miguel. My trip was mostly to educate myself on what's available for housing costs, best location for my money, price range options etc. to determine if San Miguel could be a do-able option moving ...
Mike - how difficult was it to deal with the contractors during the construction? The last 2 times we had alterations made to our Houston house and had to deal with contractors were absolute NIGHTMARES, and I mean the capital letters. Trying to ... Read More
Long term rental in San Miguel de Allende by bereid710
Looking to rent a furnished house in San Miguel de Allende for a minimum of a year. At least a 2/2 w/ outdoor terrace. Moving to SMA late fall 2019/early 2020.
Hi Bereid 710 and/or Barbara and/or whoever else could help us- could you please also send the rental realtor's information to us -- since they won't let us do it on the website, here's our email address: ***. Similar situation as one ... Read More
Housing market in San Miguel May 2019 by KLOremus
Just came home from a 10 day trip to San Miguel. My trip was mostly to educate myself on what's available for housing costs, best location for my money, price range options etc. to determine if San Miguel could be a do-able option moving ...
Mike GB: In which part of town are you building? Can you give us an estimate of the land cost? Read More
Housing market in San Miguel May 2019 by KLOremus
Just came home from a 10 day trip to San Miguel. My trip was mostly to educate myself on what's available for housing costs, best location for my money, price range options etc. to determine if San Miguel could be a do-able option moving ...
I can't find who is saying what about crime in SMA "skyrocketing"? I recently read the 2018 statistics and they seemed very mild to me, not only in comparison to US murder rates, but also in comparison to other Mexican cities. And ... Read More
Single Retiree Receiving a Pension of $1,900 USD Per Month by Halfwaytree
If I choose to take early retirement now at age 58, my monthly pension would be 1,900 USD and will increase each year indexed to inflation. Realisticly, after paying for health insurance, rent for a studio or one bedroom apartment in a beach ...
You're right, Alleycat's view was fairly on the negative side. But then, there will be that much more room for those of us who love Mexico! yeah! Read More
Single Retiree Receiving a Pension of $1,900 USD Per Month by Halfwaytree
If I choose to take early retirement now at age 58, my monthly pension would be 1,900 USD and will increase each year indexed to inflation. Realisticly, after paying for health insurance, rent for a studio or one bedroom apartment in a beach ...
That's why the Russians had to build the Wall around East Berlin: the "workers and peasants' paradise" was losing too many intelligent, educated people to the freedom of West Berlin. And that miserable Wall stayed up for 28 ... Read More
Single Retiree Receiving a Pension of $1,900 USD Per Month by Halfwaytree
If I choose to take early retirement now at age 58, my monthly pension would be 1,900 USD and will increase each year indexed to inflation. Realisticly, after paying for health insurance, rent for a studio or one bedroom apartment in a beach ...
Totally depends on the region. San Miguel de Allende: rentals depend on where you want to live, from dirt cheap (but I'm not sure I'd want to live there) to very pricey, and everything in between. Food and restaurants: plentiful, great ... Read More
flying to San miguel from Austin, Texas by SlV2393
Any suggestions on the best fares for flights from Austin to Leon?
About when was that? I mean the $25 from Leon to SMA. Because I thought we had used them in 2018 and it was $75, I remember the dollars. Read More
flying to San miguel from Austin, Texas by SlV2393
Any suggestions on the best fares for flights from Austin to Leon?
Melanie, can you give us an approximate price from Leon to SMA via Bajio GO? Read More
Moving to San Miguel, good idea or bad idea? by jbills1953
My wife and I are planning to come to San Miguel for the first time to explore the possibility of moving there on a permanent basis. Any advice or helpful tips would be appreciated.
Wow, are we talking about the same place here? Black fingernails, black snot? Can't say I have experienced any of this, nor have I heard any other expats mention it. You want to experience pollution? Go to Houston, TX and stay for a few days. ... Read More
Accommodation in Mexico: scams you should look out for by Bhavna
Hi, Committing to renting or buying accommodation when youre new to or have not moved to Mexico just yet is always a stressful endeavour. Would you like to help us in putting together a handbook of what to look out for when house hunting in ...
Where do you keep your boat, what kind of boat - sail or stinkpot? I spent 3 full years sailing on a 46' boat, ended up in Guatemala and lived there for another 4 years. Let me know! Read More
travel and live alone in SMA, perhaps teach English, security, safety by jon wolaver
So, I am thinking of moving to SMA and leaving 40 years of marriage. Even though the marriage is stifling, there is an element of safety, perhaps boring safety, but safety never the less. I am concerned about moving there, being isolated, sick and ...
Hmmm. Did it ever occur to you that your brother's "disappearance" might be voluntary? Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
Ok, we just made the treck. I'm sure it'll make for a funny story a few years down the road, but right now we're still a tad exhausted. But then, we're no spring chickens. We have 4 cats and 2 dogs and wanted to wait out the summer ... Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
Also they wouldn't go on social media and make a big public drama out of every little hiccup. Their FaceBook is the nearest tree where they can "read" the pee-mail left by other dogs. :D Hope to see you in SMA. I'll be able to ... Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
I dare say that my dogs would be better behaved than some of those people on the plane. Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
Sure you can drive if you get all the border paperwork in order. I'm told it's about a 10 hour drive, including potty breaks for people and dogs. Being in Houston, our vets are familiar with the vaccination/de-worming/de-flea-ing and the ... Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
For that money, you could almost buy a small plane! We have pet transport services here in Houston and I had to use one once to ship a critter to Europe. I about had to take out another mortgage on the house... Read More
looking for housing in San Miguel de Allende by SteveandMarty
We are a retired couple living in Houston. We are looking for affordable housing in San Miguel for the period of 4-1-19 to 8-30-19. The hitch: we have old pets that we cannot leave here in Houston for that long, they'd have to come with us, 2 ...
We found a 2 BR, 2 1/2 bath through Vacation Rentals by Owner, for $1,500 (dollars)/month. The landlady knows that we're coming with our flotilla of pets, no problem. Read More
The pet culture in Mexico by Priscilla
Hey everyone, Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Mexico just to make sure that their little ...
Well,it's not always wonderful. Last night a very sick looking cat walked up to our house, couldn't eat. I took him to the vet this morning, he was feleuk positive, very far into it, and I had him put to sleep. So, here I sit bawling ... Read More
The pet culture in Mexico by Priscilla
Hey everyone, Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Mexico just to make sure that their little ...
About the dachsies: that's odd, I've never seen an abundance of dachsies anywhere - unless they're mixed with chihuahua. Not a particularly gorgeous mix - and both of my dogs are mixed breeds and rescues. Read More
The pet culture in Mexico by Priscilla
Hey everyone, Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Mexico just to make sure that their little ...
Well, you can add a few more locations to my resume: Berlin 26 years (not one single solitary stray animal ANYwhere; strict laws and almost empty shelters); Indianapolis 10 years (not too bad), then Guatemala (4 years) and the heartbreak of that ... Read More
The pet culture in Mexico by Priscilla
Hey everyone, Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Mexico just to make sure that their little ...
I heard expats talking about a monumental effort with the stray dogs in San Miguel de Allende, and it sure shows in the streets of SMA. At least in the main streets. When you wander into purely Hispanic areas of town, the picture is still pitiful. ... Read More
Good health insurance agent/broker? by promobabe
Anyone have a good insurance agent/broker for health insurance they'd recommend? Right now, I'm looking for major medical "emergency" type coverage if something big and expensive were to happen to me while I was in Mexico. I'm ...
Stumpy, I can't figure out how to do that. Could you please help me out? Marty Read More
Good health insurance agent/broker? by promobabe
Anyone have a good insurance agent/broker for health insurance they'd recommend? Right now, I'm looking for major medical "emergency" type coverage if something big and expensive were to happen to me while I was in Mexico. I'm ...
Could you please email me the info? We're heading for San Miguel in May, and I want to have all bases covered. *** Read More
Good health insurance agent/broker? by promobabe
Anyone have a good insurance agent/broker for health insurance they'd recommend? Right now, I'm looking for major medical "emergency" type coverage if something big and expensive were to happen to me while I was in Mexico. I'm ...
I've had the same experience living in Guatemala. In Guatemala City (not so much in the backwoods), all physicians are US trained and speak fluent English. And yes, they care! The doctors walk you to your lab and other tests, the office ... Read More
The pet culture in Mexico by Priscilla
Hey everyone, Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Mexico just to make sure that their little ...
About the puppies vs. adult dogs: I've seen exactly the same thing here in Houston with my Hispanic neighbors. They pay $50 for a puppy, parade it around on a leash for a few weeks. When that puppy stops being cute, grows and jumps up on ... Read More
The pet culture in Mexico by Priscilla
Hey everyone, Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Mexico just to make sure that their little ...
Here goes my meager experience: dogs are much more common than cats, but lots of those are pit bulls chained 24/7, used as alarm systems. For indoor pets, Central Americans prefer Chihuahuas. O yeah -- heartworm pills are usually not in the ... Read More
Flying to Mexico with Two Cats: Advice Needed by kimberaw
Hello expat community! I am considering a short-term (with potential for long-term) move to Mexico from San Diego, CA. I have friends in Huatulco, Oaxaca, so my original plan was to go there for a year and see how I like it -- especially as a single ...
Hi - We've travelled extensively with our "flotilla" of pets (4 cats & 2 dogs), and in May we plan to head to San Miguel for the summer, by car, with the whole gang since we intend to stay for 4 months. As far as health records ... Read More
Clearing your belongings through customs in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, During ones big move abroad, shipping personal belongings to the host country can be stressful. Customs regulations differ from one country to another and you never quite know what to expect when trying to recover your belongings ...
Pets are fine IF you bring all the required veterinary documents: fresh rabies shots, health certificate issued by the vet, and proof of "de-warming" (no joke, that's how it's spelled over and over on the Mexican website). We ... Read More
Flying to Mexico with Two Cats: Advice Needed by kimberaw
Hello expat community! I am considering a short-term (with potential for long-term) move to Mexico from San Diego, CA. I have friends in Huatulco, Oaxaca, so my original plan was to go there for a year and see how I like it -- especially as a single ...
Nice to find somebody who travels with a "flotilla" of pets the way I do! After living in Guatemala, I brought back to the States 3 big dogs and 3 cats. USA didn't even look at the papers, and from Guatemala there were no de-worming ... Read More
Moving to San Miguel, good idea or bad idea? by jbills1953
My wife and I are planning to come to San Miguel for the first time to explore the possibility of moving there on a permanent basis. Any advice or helpful tips would be appreciated.
I've heard that Happkamper is a troll. He/she sure sounds like one. Read More
Flying to Mexico with Two Cats: Advice Needed by kimberaw
Hello expat community! I am considering a short-term (with potential for long-term) move to Mexico from San Diego, CA. I have friends in Huatulco, Oaxaca, so my original plan was to go there for a year and see how I like it -- especially as a single ...
Ok -- plenty of cat and dog transportation experience here. You need a recent rabies vaccination and a statement from the vet that the cats are healthy. Vets know about this, they do it all the time. As far as the carrier: I still have one of ... Read More
Fishing?
A few days ago there was a message on the SMA website that a person wanted to be contacted. I did, thinking they might need help. Here is what I received today, including several pictures of a pretty young woman. I asked her to go fishing on a ... Read More
Accessing Money from US by mejms
Moving from Boston to Queretaro in about a month and will continue to have income deposited into my US bank account. Would love to hear how people access their money. I will likely open a bank account in Mexico but am unsure whether I will ...
Please do come back. It makes sense that they have to make their money somewhere. Read More
Accessing Money from US by mejms
Moving from Boston to Queretaro in about a month and will continue to have income deposited into my US bank account. Would love to hear how people access their money. I will likely open a bank account in Mexico but am unsure whether I will ...
Whichever one you use: tell them ahead of time that you're going to Mexico, and that it's not one of those robbers and murderers that stole your credit card. It's a royal pain to get stuck in a foreign country without cash. Read More
Accessing Money from US by mejms
Moving from Boston to Queretaro in about a month and will continue to have income deposited into my US bank account. Would love to hear how people access their money. I will likely open a bank account in Mexico but am unsure whether I will ...
AmEx charges a foreign exchange fee every single time. Read More
Accessing Money from US by mejms
Moving from Boston to Queretaro in about a month and will continue to have income deposited into my US bank account. Would love to hear how people access their money. I will likely open a bank account in Mexico but am unsure whether I will ...
James, you said the financial institution reimburses you the ATM fees. If that's Fidelity -- and sorry people, I have to spell out the name here -- you're in trouble. They blocked our ATM card when we were in Mexico. I called, they ... Read More
Keeping fit in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Keeping fit during your time in Mexico is of utmost importance. How about sharing with us and your fellow expats how you keep healthy in your host country? What are your daily health hacks in Mexico? Do you exercise ...
I will definitely hunt down some Tevas. I'm of the Croq generation, so last time we were in SMA I wore the Croq sandals -- not a good idea. The soles aren't thick enough, there was no support. Thank you. Read More
Keeping fit in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Keeping fit during your time in Mexico is of utmost importance. How about sharing with us and your fellow expats how you keep healthy in your host country? What are your daily health hacks in Mexico? Do you exercise ...
Sandals? You're tough! I wear those in the city on flat ground, but with those cobble stones I'd stub my toes every day. I'll go to Academy and try on some. Teva is a good idea, they should carry them. Thanks! Read More
Keeping fit in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Keeping fit during your time in Mexico is of utmost importance. How about sharing with us and your fellow expats how you keep healthy in your host country? What are your daily health hacks in Mexico? Do you exercise ...
So, like (to start out with a bit of Valley-talk :D ) what kind of shoes do you wear and where - like - did you buy them? Read More
Keeping fit in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Keeping fit during your time in Mexico is of utmost importance. How about sharing with us and your fellow expats how you keep healthy in your host country? What are your daily health hacks in Mexico? Do you exercise ...
Speaking about walking on cobble stones: I'm sure SOMEbody must have found some shoes that support the ankles AND look acceptable? Non-leather only. I'm sure plenty of you have the - ahem - middle-age-ankle-twisting problem and somebody ... Read More
Is SMA city management working effectively with expats by RobertoDeVallarta
How is SMA Mayor and others working effectively with the expat community. Is it a safe place? Is it Clean, Is Traffic well managed. How is the infrastructure for clean waters, sewers, etc
They combined SMA with Celaya, about 30 miles away. Meaning you have the statistics for 2 cities rather than just one. Still a heck of a lot lower than Houston, Texas or any other big city in the USA. But thanks for sending the info. Read More
Moving to San Miguel, good idea or bad idea? by jbills1953
My wife and I are planning to come to San Miguel for the first time to explore the possibility of moving there on a permanent basis. Any advice or helpful tips would be appreciated.
It's Guanajuato. You're welcome. And 2500 troops! Wow! Impressive. Please let us know where that took place so we can avoid the area where YOU live. Read More
Mexico travel warnings by katesparks
How are people reacting to the US travel warnings to Mexico? Is anyone concerned about the drug cartels in Michoacan moving into Guanajuato in particular SMA? Is anyone concerned about what the warnings will do to the housing market in SMA? I was ...
Thanks for letting us know about the troll. Should we take up a collection to make it easier for him to move away from SMA? :lol: But please don't send him to Houston just now: we can't get out of here until this summer, and we don't ... Read More
Mexico travel warnings by katesparks
How are people reacting to the US travel warnings to Mexico? Is anyone concerned about the drug cartels in Michoacan moving into Guanajuato in particular SMA? Is anyone concerned about what the warnings will do to the housing market in SMA? I was ...
The travel warnings are issued by the US government. The same government that is now starving its employees so "it" can build a wall. Of course they need to keep us from going to Mexico, otherwise we would figure out that their their ... Read More
Moving personal household items through border by Billyjoek
We are near completion of our condo in Mazatlan and want to transport some household items for the condo, driving across the border. What should we expect? What do we need to know? How do we accomplish it? And if anyone has a suggestion, with the ...
No, I hadn't. We found the rental apartment through Vacation Rentals by Owners I believe. That's what we normally use when travelling. But I'll make a note of your address. Read More
Moving personal household items through border by Billyjoek
We are near completion of our condo in Mazatlan and want to transport some household items for the condo, driving across the border. What should we expect? What do we need to know? How do we accomplish it? And if anyone has a suggestion, with the ...
:( O yeah? Where were you when we were looking for a longer-term rental for this summer? Just joking. We found one that looks good enough. We have friends in Seattle, love the city and the whole area. And the people!!! We're in ... Read More
Border Run Expats in Mexico by Halfwaytree
I am just at the beginning of my research for a possible move to Mexico as an early retired expat I thought I would get my feet wet by maybe spending 6 to 12 months as a border run expat with a tourist visa before deciding if I should apply for ...
http://www.imss.gob.mx/derechoH/segurosalud-familia this is the website for the health insurance I believe. Try it. Read More
Border Run Expats in Mexico by Halfwaytree
I am just at the beginning of my research for a possible move to Mexico as an early retired expat I thought I would get my feet wet by maybe spending 6 to 12 months as a border run expat with a tourist visa before deciding if I should apply for ...
Mexicogc is just the "name" of one of the forum participants here. Actually, when I googled it, that particular post came up. Way under "Amazon mexicogc", Target mexicogc and the other usual suspects. Just keep scrolling down. Read More
Border Run Expats in Mexico by Halfwaytree
I am just at the beginning of my research for a possible move to Mexico as an early retired expat I thought I would get my feet wet by maybe spending 6 to 12 months as a border run expat with a tourist visa before deciding if I should apply for ...
On an annual basis, that would be a bargain! We're on Medicare and are planning trips back to Houston for our annual physicals, but there might be situations when we're not ambulant enough to get on a plane. Other than that: I've ... Read More
Border Run Expats in Mexico by Halfwaytree
I am just at the beginning of my research for a possible move to Mexico as an early retired expat I thought I would get my feet wet by maybe spending 6 to 12 months as a border run expat with a tourist visa before deciding if I should apply for ...
Is that a monthly amount? Read More
Moving personal household items through border by Billyjoek
We are near completion of our condo in Mazatlan and want to transport some household items for the condo, driving across the border. What should we expect? What do we need to know? How do we accomplish it? And if anyone has a suggestion, with the ...
Probably an appointment with the Mexican consulate would be in order. That's what we're planning to do before our trip later on this year. Read More
Moving furniture from Houston to Morelia, Michoacán
Please -- do tell me about how you do it. We're planning some of the same later in the year and could profit from your experience. *** Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
Yes, Walter, Facebook this is not, thank goodness. As far as too old to move: we're 69 and 74 years old, respectively -- yes, never too old to start something new. We visited San Miguel last year just to check it out and found a little ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
Much more so now than he was say 3 years ago. Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
Thanks for the input. I'd still like to know how the bank found out -- almost a year after our Cuba visit -- that we had been there when we had not touched that account anywhere south of Miami. Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
About drawing money out of your ATM: we had problems with Citibank last year. They blocked our account because Mexico is a "sanctioned" country. Really. Mexico. Said they "thought" my debit card had been stolen. This time ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
We're contemplating moving to SMA this coming year. Treenahope mentioned that there are problems obtaining a Mexican bank account? I've lived in other Central American countries before and most certainly had a bank account. Does anybody ... Read More
Relocating to San Miguel de Allende questions by nikbus99
Hello, I am planning to take a couple of trips to SMA in the next few months and see if it's a place I'd like to relocate to for retirement. I currently live in Texas, but only because my job is here. I've never felt like I belong in ...
What would you do with the u-haul once you arrive at your destination? There would also be insurance issues. I know that most car rental places will not let you take vehicles out of the country. Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
Pam, have you checked out San Miguel de Allende? I'm older than you by a few years, but husband and I plus 4 cats plus 2 dogs are heading there for the summer of 2019. Maybe longer if the political climate here in the States keeps ... Read More
Relocating to San Miguel de Allende questions by nikbus99
Hello, I am planning to take a couple of trips to SMA in the next few months and see if it's a place I'd like to relocate to for retirement. I currently live in Texas, but only because my job is here. I've never felt like I belong in ...
SMA has a -- poorly funded -- no-kill animal shelter which is always full to the brim. It's staffed mostly by ex-pats. We'll move there next summer and I'm looking forward to doing volunteer work there, too. And in the library. And ... Read More
Relocating to San Miguel de Allende questions by nikbus99
Hello, I am planning to take a couple of trips to SMA in the next few months and see if it's a place I'd like to relocate to for retirement. I currently live in Texas, but only because my job is here. I've never felt like I belong in ...
Celadon: Heck, I have to deal with that problem here in Houston, Texas. We live in the barrio, and our immigrant neighbors treat their dogs and cats the way they used to back in Mexico. Pit bulls in the yard -- when they're not running loose ... Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
Our big dog is 55 pounds, too, but regular nose. Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
That is totally bizarre -- who could pay that? Let me ask my husband tonight about the contact info for the Mexican outfit that will send us the driver. We have a total of 6 critters, and $950 from Laredo is steep but not outlandish. We had ... Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
Yes, please let me know if you find out a price range per pet or per pound ;) or per crate... Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
Yes, please let me know when you get your vet's quote. The track from the border to San Miguel will set us back $950. But we figure by the time we buy 2 plane tickets and pay for transporting all the critters to Leon and from there by shuttle ... Read More
Dog Transport from United States to San Miguel de Allende by GuestPoster7890
I will be moving to San Miguel de Allende and need to get my dog there. I believe he is too big for the airlines to allow in the cabin and due to his breed (Boxer) he is not allowed to be shipped in Cargo. With that said, are there any ...
Where do you start out? We're in Texas and intend to rent an SUV and drive it to the border (we're talking multiple animals here) There a Mexican transport service will pick us up and carry us to San Miguel. Expensive, but then we ... Read More
English Speaking Doctor Shingles Shots by Mellowmarsh3
I'll be arriving in SMA early November. I'll be looking for a a general doctor-family practicioner or internist, etc. Any recommendations would be welcome. I prefer an English speaker, but my Spanish is more that passable, so it is not ...
Danno, your arguments have been proven incorrect. Read More
Language barriers in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello, Learning a new language is a part of the expat process. Let's find out how crucial it is to know the language in Mexico. What is the official language in Mexico, and what are the other popular spoken languages? Is it possible to live ...
Do you really think that the languages have anything to do with the poverty? Not the fact that the wealthy people are systematically suppressing and squeezing the indigenous? All those Central American countries receive foreign aid from the US. ... Read More
Language barriers in Mexico by Priscilla
Hello, Learning a new language is a part of the expat process. Let's find out how crucial it is to know the language in Mexico. What is the official language in Mexico, and what are the other popular spoken languages? Is it possible to live ...
Try Guatemala: they have 23 Mayan dialects. Often people cannot understand each other from one village to the next. Spanish is the common - second - language. I learned Spanish there which was wonderful because the indigenous people speak ... Read More
looking for housing in San Miguel de Allende by SteveandMarty
We are a retired couple living in Houston. We are looking for affordable housing in San Miguel for the period of 4-1-19 to 8-30-19. The hitch: we have old pets that we cannot leave here in Houston for that long, they'd have to come with us, 2 ...
Heidi, are you in SMA now? I'll probably need a referral to a good vet there. Let me know. Marty in Houston Read More
Mexico travel warnings by katesparks
How are people reacting to the US travel warnings to Mexico? Is anyone concerned about the drug cartels in Michoacan moving into Guanajuato in particular SMA? Is anyone concerned about what the warnings will do to the housing market in SMA? I was ...
Unfortunately, you are not exaggerating. It's become a strange country full of hateful, armed people. Read More
Mexico travel warnings by katesparks
How are people reacting to the US travel warnings to Mexico? Is anyone concerned about the drug cartels in Michoacan moving into Guanajuato in particular SMA? Is anyone concerned about what the warnings will do to the housing market in SMA? I was ...
I find that lots of the "travel warnings" for Mexico have been politically motivated lately. Read More
Mexico travel warnings by katesparks
How are people reacting to the US travel warnings to Mexico? Is anyone concerned about the drug cartels in Michoacan moving into Guanajuato in particular SMA? Is anyone concerned about what the warnings will do to the housing market in SMA? I was ...
That happycamper never lived in Houston, TX, did he? He'd find SMA a haven of safety, in comparison. Read More
looking for housing in San Miguel de Allende by SteveandMarty
We are a retired couple living in Houston. We are looking for affordable housing in San Miguel for the period of 4-1-19 to 8-30-19. The hitch: we have old pets that we cannot leave here in Houston for that long, they'd have to come with us, 2 ...
Heidi, thanks so much for responding. We did find a small house for rent and already committed us. Marty Garfinkel Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
There's a guy (sorry, I don't remember the gent's name) in SMA who plays the folk harp beautifully and gives regular concerts at the public library. He might steer you in the right direction. Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
Sad to leave Texas? I hope that was sarcasm. Read More
How did you learn a foreign language and how did it affect your life? by GuestPoster348
In my case, that is English. I have nothing to be proud of my English. I know that my pronunciation is not yet good. But anyway, I can use English pretty well. Sometime I’m asked: ‘how did you learn English’ or ‘why ...
"Bloomer" or "blooper"? Read More
Experience in exchanging languages by trtrbb
Hey guys So I'm not an expat yet but are definitely planning to become one. As far as I'm concerned, language is probably one of the utmost importance when it comes to living in another country. So i'm just curious of you guys' ...
You're a brave human to start with German. If I hadn't been born into that language... Germans often judge the educational level of another German person by his/her proper use of the German grammar. Read More
How did you learn a foreign language and how did it affect your life? by GuestPoster348
In my case, that is English. I have nothing to be proud of my English. I know that my pronunciation is not yet good. But anyway, I can use English pretty well. Sometime I’m asked: ‘how did you learn English’ or ‘why ...
You're correct about some cultures frowning upon incorrect use of language, whether it's their own or a foreign language. I came from such a culture and was mortified to speak another language for fear of being ridiculed for mistakes. ... Read More
Experience in exchanging languages by trtrbb
Hey guys So I'm not an expat yet but are definitely planning to become one. As far as I'm concerned, language is probably one of the utmost importance when it comes to living in another country. So i'm just curious of you guys' ...
Coming from the Vietnamese language would definitely be a handicap. Most of us use languages coming from European roots, i.e. Latin (French, Spanish, Italian), German (English and Nordic languages) with some Greek touches. For me, Spanish was easy ... Read More
New members of the Mexico forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 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 ...
Hi - Steve and I live in Houston. We visited San Miguel de Allende earlier this year and fell in love with it. We're planning to spend about 4 months there next summer. I'm a retired CPA, Steve is still working part-time as a theater ... Read More
looking for housing in San Miguel de Allende
We are a retired couple living in Houston. We are looking for affordable housing in San Miguel for the period of 4-1-19 to 8-30-19. The hitch: we have old pets that we cannot leave here in Houston for that long, they'd have to come with us, 2 ... Read More