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10 years ago

A Long Way Home

10 years ago
Hi everyone! I'm an Asian Canadian male, who has spent most of his adult life and has worked only in the US, thus my retirement accounts are also only in the US. I'm in my middle age and considering to move overseas mainly for the financial reason. I used to work as a sub teacher for public schools in California and, looking long-term, my retirement funds are simply too skimpy to allow me to live in North America.

I've been researching lately trying to find an inexpensive destination to move to, with the possibility of long term stay or emigrate to. And Mexico is a well-known choice for many Americans. I'm also interested in Latin culture. But since money is the main (despite not only) reason I'm considering Mexico, I'd like to know just how much it will cost to live there.

Below is the cost of living in Mexico City. Please advise how accurate they are.

http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/city_result.jsp?country=Mexico&city=Mexico+City&displayCurrency=USD

Someone by the name of Kathleen Peddicord has been promoting hard on Puerto Vallarta, saying it's a great choice, but I'm not sure if that's not just another saleswoman's pitch.

I'm open to any city besides Mexico City or Puerto Vallarta as long as it has what I'm looking for in a "home."

My main concerns are:
1) rent / real estate prices
2) how easy / difficult to get a tourist / PR visa?
3) Is it possible for expat to get jobs there since I still need to work. Unless I can afford a piece of real estate and rent out rooms, but I prefer to work.
4) Are they tax / expat friendly?
5) Low crime
6) Affordable and good quality medical care.

A few other concerns:
(in random order)
Warm weather (80 degree F is the optimum temperature to me, and I'd rather hot than cold, ideally not too humid)
Easy access to beach and mountains,
Has affordable gyms with at least doable equipments,
Clean, with good infrastructure
Reliable, at least not too bad internet / cell phone services
English-friendly is a plus, but not a must
As an Asian from English speaking countries, how well received will I be there?

In terms of job, my Mandarin is quite good (just came back from Taiwan). Will that be an asset?

I know these are a lot of questions / concerns, and these are the ideal. Please feel free to respond to any of them.
Much obliged!

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William Russell
William Russell

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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Contribute to Mexico Network Contribute
Help others in Mexico by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Mexico.

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