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.
Cost of living is rather variable too, depending on the economic levels and personal tastes of the particular foreigners. Food, medical care, and other basics are quite reasonable. Many of us can afford gardeners and maids, since their wages are much lower here than back home. But in the popular expat colonies, rental costs and the prices of homes for sale are surprisingly comparable to those North of the Border, or as we say, NOB.
A third aspect of why so many North Americans like living in Mexico is that the Mexican people are generally very pleasant and well-mannered. They have ready smiles, and are willing to figure out our fractured Spanish with patience. A difference in our cultures that you should know, however, is that Mexicans would rather give you inaccurate street directions than say they don't know where a particular place is!
Cynics may argue that the friendliness is because the Mexicans know which side their bread is buttered on. The foreign population certainly provides a large boost to the income of many Mexicans in the popular expat centers. But all you have to do is sit on a park bench and do some people-watching to see how both courtesy and warmth come naturally to the Mexicans.
But there is no use trying to convey how different it is to live here. If you haven't been to Mexico, and life here has an appealing ring to it, come down for a visit. Stay more than a week or two, and don't buy a house on that first trip. Inform yourself. Living in Mexico is not for everyone, but for those who adapt, it offers many pleasures.
