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American Living in Mexico

Are you tired of the cold winters in the United States? Are you looking for a place to retire that is warm and sunny year-round? If so, Mexico may be the perfect country for you! In fact, over 1.5 million Americans have made a move south of the border, and they love it.

From the lower cost of living to beautiful weather and a relaxed lifestyle, there are many reasons why people are moving to Mexico. But if you are thinking about moving to Mexico, there are a few things you need to know before you pack your bags. These include: 

Learn How to Navigate the New Culture and Customs

The culture shock can be a bit overwhelming for Americans moving to Mexico. Even though it is a neighboring country, there are still many differences between the two cultures.

One of the biggest culture shocks is the pace of life. In Mexico, things move at a much slower pace than in America. This can be frustrating for Americans who are used to always being on the go. However, you will quickly learn to appreciate the slower pace and enjoy the relaxed lifestyle.

Another big difference is the way Mexicans view time. In America, time is money, and people are always rushing around to get things done. In Mexico, time is not as important, and people do not stress about being late. This can be confusing for Americans who are always punctual.

One of the best ways to navigate the new culture and customs is to learn some Spanish. Although many Mexicans speak English, learning at least some basic phrases will help you feel more comfortable in your new home. It will also allow you to meet more people and make friends more easily.

Understand the Mexican Healthcare System

Before moving to Mexico, it’s essential to understand how the healthcare system works and what your options are for obtaining medical care. 

The healthcare system consists of employer-funded, private, and public programs. Every program has different healthcare protocols, doctors, and pharmacies. Each system also operates as an independent network, and individuals can only use the services in their healthcare network.

The Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) is the country’s employer-funded healthcare program. International expats who work in Mexico are qualified to be covered by the IMSS, and self-employed individuals may willingly enroll and make their contributions directly.

But if you’re not employed in Mexico, it’s advisable to use the private healthcare program because it offers the highest standard of care. The private healthcare system also features more comfortable healthcare facilities and shorter wait times.

It’s Easier to Find Familiar Shopping Brands

Mexico is home to numerous American chain stores such as Home Depot, Costco, Walmart, and Sam’s Club. You can find all your favorite American brands such as Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Hershey’s, L’Oreal, Maybelline, Nike, Adidas, and many more.

If you become homesick, you can easily find familiar foods to eat as well. Brands such as Kraft, Heinz, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, General Mills, and Nabisco are all available in Mexico. You can also find fast food chains such as McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, Subway, Dominos, Pizza Hut, and KFC.

Mexicans are very proud of their culture and traditions. However, they’re also very welcoming to foreigners, and you’ll find that most people are willing to help you adjust to your new surroundings.

Find the Perfect Place to Live

Mexico is one of the most diverse countries in North America. This diversity is well reflected in the country’s housing market. Here, you can find everything from American-style suburban homes to apartments in the heart of the city to a charming beach house on the coast. You can even purchase a piece of land and build a custom house based on your specifications. No matter your budget or lifestyle, there’s a place for you in Mexico.

One of the best things about living in Mexico is the low cost of living. According to a report, the average cost of living in Mexico is $667, 66% lower than in the U.S., which is $2016. 

For this reason, you can easily find a comfortable place to live without spending a fortune. Even if you choose to live in one of the country’s more expensive areas, such as Puerto Vallarta or Mexico City, your costs will still be lower than they would be in the United States. Hence, you can enjoy a higher standard of living without breaking the bank.

Consider Your Safety

Gang violence and cartel activity are a reality in many areas of Mexico, and as an American living here, it’s important to be aware of the risks. While the vast majority of Mexicans are kind, hardworking people, there are some who will take advantage of foreigners.

It’s always a good idea to consult with locals before traveling to a new area and to take extra precautions when traveling alone. When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution.

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when traveling around the country:

• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or clothing that could make you a target for thieves.
• Keep your cash and valuables in a safe place, out of sight.
• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
• Avoid traveling alone, especially at night.
• Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
• Keep your phone charged and with you at all times.

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that your time in Mexico is enjoyable and safe. Understanding the risks and taking precautions can help you avoid becoming a victim of crime. Remember, if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. So, trust your instincts and stay safe.

Bottomline

Overall, living in Mexico has a lot of benefits. The cost of living is low, the food is great, and there are plenty of familiar American brands to be found. Mexicans are also generally very welcoming to foreigners. However, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with gang violence and cartel activity in certain areas of Mexico. By taking some basic safety precautions, you can help ensure that your time in Mexico is enjoyable and safe.