Living in Mexico: Joys and Challenges

By: Rosana Hart

Living in Mexico is becoming more and more popular with Americans and Canadians. While many are snowbirds who come from late autumn till springtime, a lot of foreigners have moved to Mexico for good. Sure, they may often go back to visit family -- grandchildren are a big draw -- but home base becomes Mexico.

Why do we come and stay here in Mexico? Few of us speak Spanish really well; complaining is a major pastime in expat communities; and we are baffled by the customs of the people in our new country of residence. So what is the draw?

There seem to be two main reasons: climate and money. Naturally, in a country as varied as Mexico topographically, there are many different climates. The many expats who live in the area around Lake Chapala brag about its famous climate. The rain falls in the rainy season (from June to October, roughly) and winter days are warm and sunny. Yet at five thousand feet elevation, the heat is rarely oppressive. Coastal cities will be hotter and more humid, but then they have those sweet ocean breezes! The clincher is that no matter where in Mexico you live, you can leave your snow shovel in the US or Canada.

It is hard to generalize about what any given person or couple from the US or Canada will spend for average monthly expenses, because people differ a lot. Fresh produce in the local street market, all the tortillas you can eat, and local meat are very economical. Health care is typically lower in cost than up north, and so are other basics. Many expats who took care of their own housework and yard back home find they can afford a gardener, a maid, or both. One area that will not necessarily provide big bargains is that of housing. In places where a lot of foreigners congregate, prices may be very much like home.

There's another factor that is less often mentioned that might actually be even more important -- it's certainly at least as important as climate and costs. The Mexican people themselves are wonderfully courteous and welcoming to us. They are patient with our struggles to speak Spanish, and very helpful. One of the cultural differences that every expat has to get used to is that it is very hard indeed for Mexicans to say no to any request. They will very kindly give you inaccurate directions if you ask where a particular street is and they don't happen to know.

You may say, "But of course they are kind and helpful. Expats are a huge help to their economy." While that is undeniable, and many Mexicans I know are grateful for it, courtesy and enjoyment of life are a natural part of their culture. Just walk around anywhere and observe.

No amount of reading will really prepare you for the actual experience of living here. If you are intrigued, come for a trip, preferably of several weeks or even several months. Go to places you think you might like. While living in Mexico may not be your cup of tea, maybe it will be -- come see!

Article Source: http://www.retirementlivingarticledirectory.com

Wondering about retiring or living in Mexico? Rosana Hart's popular blog, created from her home near Lake Chapala, provides you with information about what it's like and how you can do it. She includes photos and videos. How to learn to speak Spanish is a frequent topic.

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