9 Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make When Moving to Mexico 😱

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  • čas přidán 24. 02. 2021
  • Moving to Mexico 2021 | 9 Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make 😱 // Planning on moving to Mexico from the US? Learn what mistakes NOT to make when moving to Mexico as an American. Real advice from an expat in Mexico about living in Mexico.
    #movingtomexico2021 #movingtomexico #backpackingbrunette
    Residency in Mexico made easy! Snag your copy of the Mexico Residency Roadmap with the "must-have" 10-step checklist, translated forms & more // backpackingbrunette.com/mexic...
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    backpackingbrunette.com/best-...
    ✨ Moving to Mexico? Snag the 11-point Move to Mexico Checklist PLUS my top tips for finding an apartment in Mexico & a handy renting in Spanish cheat sheet ⬇️
    **Download the FREE 32-page Move to Mexico Quickstart Guide (PDF) // backpackingbrunette.com/mexic...
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    Why I Moved to Mexico at 25 // • WHY I MOVED TO MEXICO ...
    How I Make Money in Mexico as an American // • HOW TO MAKE MONEY IN M...
    Follow me on INSTAGRAM for snippets of my daily life in Mexico:
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    • 9 Mistakes You Don’t W...

Komentáře • 216

  • @alex-wittman
    @alex-wittman  Před rokem

    Apartment hunting tips, renting in Spanish cheatsheet & 11-point Move to Mexico Checklist! Download the FREE 32-page Move to Mexico Quickstart Guide (PDF) 👉🏼 backpackingbrunette.com/mexicoguide/

  • @ebouwens
    @ebouwens Před 3 lety +36

    Enroll in an intensive Spanish course in one of the towns you are considering to move to. Your course will likely include cultural appreciation to help you get your head around cultural differences and your daily routine of going to school will help you get used to the rhythm of life in the town. Learning language intensively will also help you to understand the vast differences in culture, history and the way people think. You will not be able to enjoy Mexico unless you can appreciate the culture. Being cheaper than your home and having sunshine will not be enough to sustain you.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +4

      Really valuable insight, Eric! Yes, knowing Spanish is so much more than the ability to order in a restaurant or go to the dentist. As you you said, understanding a language helps you to understand the culture. It's very difficult for one to happen without the other. Enrolling in an intensive Spanish course is an excellent suggestion for anyone moving to Mexico!

    • @jpsmusicandmore5457
      @jpsmusicandmore5457 Před 2 lety +2

      Great advise and it seems like you could meet people there to learn from and practice with which can then become friendship.

  • @jordancaley4554
    @jordancaley4554 Před 3 lety +8

    Great video, Alex! Another recommendation I would make for moving abroad in general (especially if you're a US citizen/resident) is understanding your tax liabilities at home and abroad. For Americans, even if you don't owe US taxes, you still have to file! 🙃 I used Greenback for the first time this year because they specialize in expat taxes and I'm really happy with their webinars and other services.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +2

      Thanks for the suggestion, Jordan! I hadn't heard of Greenback & I'm going to check them out 🤓

  • @JohannaEarthlyRamos
    @JohannaEarthlyRamos Před 3 lety +9

    My favorite expats CZcamsrs are: The Yarbros, The Grateful Gypsies, Tangerine Travels and your channel 💖

    • @JohannaEarthlyRamos
      @JohannaEarthlyRamos Před 3 lety +1

      Oh and The Eternal Expat!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      I'm not familiar with The Grateful Gypsies. I will have to check out their channel 🤓 thanks for watching, Johanna!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +3

      Laura (Eternal Expat) and I were just chatting & saying that we hope we can do a video together soon!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Haha, I hope you think my information is valuable too 🤓

    • @JohannaEarthlyRamos
      @JohannaEarthlyRamos Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman that would be aweeesome! She is how I found you :).

  • @curiousbunny2573
    @curiousbunny2573 Před 3 lety +10

    Subreddits for your preferred Mexican city/state are super helpful! You may need to translate some things because posts may be in Spanish.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      Awesome suggestion for a great moving to Mexico resource, Curious Bunny! Thanks for sharing 🤓

  • @esthercasoluengo2732
    @esthercasoluengo2732 Před 2 lety +3

    Thank you so much for living in México! And for encouraging more people to come!, you help our economie, is win-win relationship! We love you

  • @margaretwheeler8681
    @margaretwheeler8681 Před rokem

    Awesome advice Alex

  • @JUANRGB
    @JUANRGB Před 3 lety +6

    Great tips also for Mexicans planning on moving back to Mexico after many years abroad👍

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +2

      Thanks for watching, Juan & I'm so glad to hear you found the advice helpful 🇲🇽

  • @carlab3866
    @carlab3866 Před rokem +1

    Good advice! Banco Intercam is set up specifically for foreigners in Mexico, so expats can get a bank account in Mexico and transfer usd to mxn when the exchange rate is good.

  • @giljusino
    @giljusino Před 7 dny

    Very good advice!

  • @JorgeLopez-dg7ei
    @JorgeLopez-dg7ei Před 3 lety

    Thank you for all the information!

  • @ALEXPKQ
    @ALEXPKQ Před 3 lety +12

    I had a Boss who tell me: "Smart its the person who learn from their own mistakes... Wise its the person who learn from another mistakes"

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +2

      Hopefully some of my wise subscribers will be able to learn from the mistakes I made when I moved to Mexico 🤓 Thanks for watching, Alejandro!

    • @edurnerobles9377
      @edurnerobles9377 Před 3 lety

      In spanish We Would say " nadie escarmienta en cabeza ajena"
      It means nobody Would lern in some body ealse experince

  • @caryrodin5360
    @caryrodin5360 Před 2 lety

    Love your videos!

  • @TheTwoTravelersInMexico
    @TheTwoTravelersInMexico Před 3 lety +3

    I love the line "scrolling through listings while you’re supposed to be working". Great video.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Haha, if you know, you know! Thanks for watching!

  • @jpsmusicandmore5457
    @jpsmusicandmore5457 Před 2 lety

    Really valuable information in this video. Thank you

  • @kevonionia
    @kevonionia Před 3 lety

    Great perspective, good advice.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching! I hope anyone thinking about moving to Mexico will find this video helpful 🤓

  • @charlieramz3126
    @charlieramz3126 Před 3 lety +5

    Awesome advice, yours are some of the best I’ve seen.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching, Charlie! This video is really packed with some of my best advice for moving to Mexico 🤓

  • @pamelalueschen1062
    @pamelalueschen1062 Před 3 lety

    Very informative, thanks 🌷

  • @rt193682
    @rt193682 Před 3 lety

    Excellent video, you do a really great job!

  • @jeronimogonzalez7325
    @jeronimogonzalez7325 Před rokem

    Awesome I enjoyed
    It very mich

  • @alex-wittman
    @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +9

    Thanks for watching! For these common mistakes when moving to Mexico, I'm guilty of 1, 6 & 8 🙈 Leave a comment & let me know which of these mistakes you're most determined not to make when you move to Mexico!

    • @rasheedahabdullah8799
      @rasheedahabdullah8799 Před 2 lety

      Renting/neighborhood; Charles Schaub; Spanish and other suggestions. Thanks

    • @lologonzalez443
      @lologonzalez443 Před rokem

      Thanks for 8 and learning about Charles Schwab 🙏 since ATM fees do add up. I've got 3 more years to go before heading down south.

  • @annastayziaa
    @annastayziaa Před 2 lety

    alex thanks so much for your videos! they're so helpful to come back to!!

  • @telefrk49
    @telefrk49 Před 3 lety

    Awesome video and info!! Thank you!!!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks for watching, Marc!

    • @telefrk49
      @telefrk49 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman You're very welcome !! I am jst retiring and looking to spend lots of time , and eventually live there !! Hope you don't mind if i have a question or tow along the way:) Thanks !!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      @@telefrk49 of course, I am here to help!

  • @bakay9566
    @bakay9566 Před 3 lety +1

    Your hair looks AWESOME in this video and that says a lot since your hair always looks great!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      Thank you, Barbara! My sister got me a new curler for my birthday & I think I'm finally getting the hang of it 🤓

  • @YiNkZZ
    @YiNkZZ Před 3 lety

    Honestly I agree with all your points!! I have been living here for 2 years and I think this is great info for people planning to live here.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks for watching! I hope people moving to Mexico will find this advice helpful 🤓

    • @vivveene1675
      @vivveene1675 Před 3 lety

      YiNkZZ; how safe is it in mexico or it depend on where you live?

  • @annastayziaa
    @annastayziaa Před 2 lety +1

    girl, i am currently struggling with my USA phone plan giving me a hard time and i came back to your channel to find this video!!! lol i remember you mentioned something about a phone plan and i'm so happy i found this section 8:35 😭😭😭😭😭😭 thank you SOOOOO much!!!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 2 lety +1

      Glad I could help!

    • @misshulagirl05
      @misshulagirl05 Před 2 lety

      Did you cancel your USA phone plan once you got to Mexico?

    • @annastayziaa
      @annastayziaa Před 2 lety

      @@misshulagirl05 not yet. I'm going to port my phone number probably over to google voice so I can keep my number and that's how I'll cancel my USA phone plan ❤️xo

  • @taylorwteaches692
    @taylorwteaches692 Před 3 lety +2

    Great video!! Congrats on 5k; you deserve way more!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching! Eek yes, 5k ahhhh very exciting stuff 🎉🥂

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      @@chacmool2581 he's always working lol I have to ask him to take a break to watch my videos 😜 Taylor is super supportive of the whole CZcams thing & he even helped me organize the advice in this video!

  • @doraray9964
    @doraray9964 Před rokem

    Im from Durango México and Im moving back after 30 years living in Bakersfield Ca. Your videos help a lot

  • @krsiebeast6758
    @krsiebeast6758 Před 3 lety +1

    Great info as always! We're making the move later this year so this is extremely helpful. Not sure where we'll land long term, but Queretaro will def get an extended visit at the least!
    Cheers!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching & I'm glad to hear you found this video helpful 🤓 wishing you all the best with your move to Mexico!

  • @robertor4531
    @robertor4531 Před 3 lety +1

    Excelent recommendations, I am Mexican living in Queretaro and I like a lot your channel. Regards.

  • @orlandotorres6065
    @orlandotorres6065 Před 3 lety

    Thanx for the tips Alex

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      I hope you found this advice for moving to Mexico helpful, Orlando!

    • @orlandotorres6065
      @orlandotorres6065 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman hello Alex
      Would it be wise to open a Charles Shwabb account before heading into Mexico 🇲🇽

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      @@orlandotorres6065 yes, if you're in the US I definitely recommend it, unless your current bank already reimburses you for foreign ATM fees 🤓

    • @orlandotorres6065
      @orlandotorres6065 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman gracias 🙏🏼

  • @scsangler9373
    @scsangler9373 Před 3 lety +1

    Great video and excellent advice! The other CZcamsrs In Mexico I enjoy are Laura on Eternal Expat, and Paul and Linda on Two Expats Mexico.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching! Ah I am honored to be in such excellent company 🤓

  • @annastayziaa
    @annastayziaa Před 2 lety

    i'm rewatching this video after moving to mexico and this is so accurate!!! looolll!!! even the part about needing to be flexible! it's so true!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 2 lety +1

      Yesssss, flexibility is a must! I hope you are liking Mexico!

    • @annastayziaa
      @annastayziaa Před 2 lety

      @@alex-wittman oh i'm in LOVE with mexico!! 😂❤️ i'm in the right place at the right time. it's so magical!

  • @leeloo1701-D
    @leeloo1701-D Před 2 lety +2

    I am new to the channel and really enjoying your videos. October will be 5 years since we moved from Colorado to Nayarit and we love it. I could tell you how amazing the people are, how fantastic the food is, how beautiful it is, how empowering it feels dealing with Murphy’s Law getting here, but managing any problems as the arose, despite our pigeon Spanish.
    We adopted 2 mottos when we first got here that have made our life here fun, helped us step out of a few comfort zones, and I believe helped us assimilate a little quicker.
    Número 1- porque no?
    (Why not)
    Number 2- just because it’s different doesn’t mean it’s wrong.
    I agree wholeheartedly you have be flexible and patient.
    Also be willing to step out of your comfort zone at least now and then.
    Looking forward to watching some of your other videos and will keep my eyes open for new ones. 😊♥️🖖

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 2 lety

      I love your mottos! Actually, number 2 is something I say all the time! I'm so glad you're so happy in Nayarit & welcome to our community 🥰

  • @lapantera2022
    @lapantera2022 Před rokem

    I am at a point where I am narrowing down my retirement destination options. I have learned to speak basic Spanish, live simply and have even visited SMA. I considered Panama, Ecuador, and now back to Mexico, name Guanajuato... I appreciate your practical, easy to follow video, ( and yo are very easy on the eyes too)😊

  • @kevinmiller8576
    @kevinmiller8576 Před rokem

    I'm moving to Merida next weekend.

  • @alixandrinafortis5044
    @alixandrinafortis5044 Před 3 lety +2

    Hi! I love your channel. Glad I found it! I am a senior planning on retiring in Mexico. Queretaro is attractive to me for the weather (not a fan of caliente!) and because of the architecture and the universities. I am a native NYCer and have intellectual and cultural needs. I was wondering what recommendations you have for finding rental agencies. I already speak intermediate Spanish and, of course will top off. 😁 I also speak Italian. I am grateful for any pointers. You already gave so many in this video. I will get your guide as well. Am targeting 2023 for move, but will start visiting when travel restrictions are lifted. Take care of yourself and God Bless.

    • @MHdollrevievs
      @MHdollrevievs Před 2 lety

      We spent 3+ weeks in Puerto Vallarta January 2022 at an Air B&B In a middle class neighborhood about 2.5 Km from the water. It was a huge learning experience for us,Neighborhood was very noisy not as bad as Las Vegas but definitely 2nd,Several trucks drive threw during the day with load speakers blasting music too sell stuff,Water,Propane,Food products you name it.The dogs run wild and bark at ALL HOURS,House party’s can go ALL NIGHT with music blasting and people yelling. A/C is a must if you want to sleep just to cover up the noise. Weather was great and prices are cheap,We used Uber over the taxi’s as you just enter we’re you want to go in the app and it gives you a price and the driver doesn’t get lost.

  • @bakay9566
    @bakay9566 Před 3 lety +1

    PS I love the "WELCOME BACK" and the hand wave! I have started to coopt that in my life. When I see someone I know, I do the hand wave and say "Welcome Back". I hope you don't mind, lol!

  • @Suz52
    @Suz52 Před rokem +1

    CZcams channels: Yours, of course. Mariana Lange, Mexico Relocation Guide; Retired Life in Mexico (even if you’re not planning to retire😊), and Spring Spanish for a fun, free way to learn basic Spanish for many situations!!!

  • @ddchoco2895
    @ddchoco2895 Před 2 lety

    Great video! What expat mail forwarding service do you recommend?

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 2 lety

      This post has a good roundup of services: expertvagabond.com/best-virtual-mailbox-service/

  • @willie9smith875
    @willie9smith875 Před 3 lety

    cool thanks.....

  • @robc9019
    @robc9019 Před 2 lety

    Fidelity also reimburses all atm fees. Love your videos, thanks and see you soon, maybe.

  • @marycoyne1889
    @marycoyne1889 Před 3 lety +1

    Ally bank also provides free withdrawals at ATMs with partner banks. Many mexico banks (in cdmx anyway) are partner banks, so found Ally to be super helpful.

  • @fcboss3524
    @fcboss3524 Před 3 lety +1

    True to the noises me an my wife wore Living in San Juan Del Rio for 2 months December and January and the fire works was alot and we wore near to the highway alot of noise from the trucks but it was ok for us because we enjoy every moment together in Mexico

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      I'm glad to hear the noise wasn't a dealbreaker for you! I am mostly able to tune out the fireworks now!

    • @fcboss3524
      @fcboss3524 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman ok, continue to do the good work i enjoyed your videos

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      @@fcboss3524 thanks for watching! Glad to have you here 🤗

  • @lologonzalez443
    @lologonzalez443 Před rokem

    You are so wonderful. Taylor is a lucky guy.

  • @waynevandermeer3139
    @waynevandermeer3139 Před 3 lety

    Wow I would never thk att is down there. Yes I will call them to se if I need something additional. And I will get a debit card. Thks for the advice.

  • @gregorgman
    @gregorgman Před 2 lety +2

    Fidelity does the same thing as Charles Schwab.

  • @genaroignot3332
    @genaroignot3332 Před 3 lety

    Good video honey

  • @jeffjohnston6054
    @jeffjohnston6054 Před rokem

    Si es muy importante aprender español

  • @anitamendez116
    @anitamendez116 Před 3 lety +3

    Great information. My husband and I plan to move to either Merida or Queretaro Mexico, leaning more towards Queretaro because I’m a senior and I have difficulty with high humidity. I have thought about visiting Mexico first before deciding to move, however, we do not have the finances to visit then move. We will only have the money to move. Anyway, I am a Native Hawaiian and my husband is part Argentinian and speaks some Spanish. I’m telling you this because we are both aware of how life is totally living off grid (which I know that would not be the case in Mexico) on the Big Island of Hawaii and all the differences there is in living on the Big Island and living on the U.S. continent, very different in all ways.
    I watch many of your videos and I have subscribed to your channel. Thank you for sharing your experiences, it is very helpful to us and I’m sure many others.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching, Anita & I wish you all the best for your future move to Mexico. If you have any questions about Queretaro, please feel free to reach out!

    • @robynelcock6670
      @robynelcock6670 Před 3 lety

      Hello Anita, My suggestion would be to Queretaro, Merida is very humid especially in the summer. My husband and daughter have been in Queretaro for the last month, but we have been in Mexico since July of 2020. We went first to Merida and I thought I was in a sauna the whole month. We have been to Oaxaca and Mexico City and Guadalajara. Queretaro is a great city, with restrictions we were not able to explore much together. We stayed in an Airbnb in Santa Fe area. There is grocery store within walking distance and the Costco was only a 15 min Uber driver away. I can also recommend San Miguel de Allende. A large expat community in both cities.

    • @jeffjohnston6054
      @jeffjohnston6054 Před rokem

      You definitely need to visit first and stay for a month or so it will be much more expensive you you decide Mexico is not for you take her advice don’t just move to Mexico without visiting first the cultural is very different so is the weather and food etc

  • @nternalPractice
    @nternalPractice Před 3 lety +1

    Alex, I'm considering 6 months in Mexico City and would LOVE to get your take on the proper procedure for washing produce i.e. even though there is a risk of Giardia is the tap water adequate for washing vegetables (and brushing teeth etc).

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      I brush my teeth with the tap water & wash veggies in it too! There are disinfectant tablets at the grocery store you can put in the water before your wash your veggies.

    • @nternalPractice
      @nternalPractice Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman Thanks Alex. Do you think Mexico City water is better or worse?

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      @@nternalPractice I think it depends on where you are in the city.

  • @Alejandro-rh4ck
    @Alejandro-rh4ck Před 3 lety +3

    This video is just in time.. I want to move within the next 45 days. Thank you.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      I hope you found this video helpful for your move to Mexico, Alejandro! Wishing you all the best!

    • @Alejandro-rh4ck
      @Alejandro-rh4ck Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman thank you, your videos have convinced me to move to queretaro.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      @@Alejandro-rh4ck woohoo! That's what I like to hear 🤗

    • @Alejandro-rh4ck
      @Alejandro-rh4ck Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman do you think it's safe to travel by bus from texas all the way to queretaro. I don't want to bring my car to mexico.

    • @fireeye6446
      @fireeye6446 Před 3 lety

      @@Alejandro-rh4ck right now land travel across the border is banned for non-essential purposes. You can however, travel by air.

  • @fergomez3817
    @fergomez3817 Před 3 lety

    Very informative and concise, the 11 min flew by. One question, is there a Costco in Querétaro? I know there is one nearby in Celaya which is about 25 miles from there. 🖖🇲🇽😀

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks for watching, Fer! There is a Costco in Querétaro & it's actually relatively close to the city center 🤓

    • @fergomez3817
      @fergomez3817 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman thank you for the quick response, my US Costco card should be good all over Mexico from what I remember😀

  • @ornelaalquicira3487
    @ornelaalquicira3487 Před 3 lety

    I'm from Mexico living in another country🤪 but GRACIAS!!!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Haha probably some of the advice could be applied to moving to any country!

  • @deborahquinette4569
    @deborahquinette4569 Před 3 lety +1

    Hi Alex 😊 thank you for another awesome video !!! I really liked your places that you recommend for expats to live in 2021 !!! We will be arriving in Querétaro In March ! So excited ! We are also interested in Huatulco as another location to check out as a possible retirement location ! We have been to Querétaro before and loved it but we have lived in Hawaii for the past 15 years so are also drawn to Huatulco !! We do plan on flying down to Huatulco to check it out ! Hopefully it won’t be too hot 🥵 have you been there ?

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Hi, Deborah! I'm glad to hear you found the blog post about the best places to live in Mexico helpful 🤓 I've spent a lot of time in Puerto Escondido which is just down the coast from Huatulco. I love that whole little stretch of the Pacific coast, but I'm not sure I could live there year round due to the humidity. I much prefer Querétaro's dry heat!

    • @deborahquinette4569
      @deborahquinette4569 Před 3 lety

      I love the idea of living at the beach but I worry that I wouldn’t be able to take the humidity either ! What do you think of Tequisquiapan ? 😊

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      @@deborahquinette4569 I only visited Tequis for a day a few years back (it was actually for Valentine's Day), but I really liked it. Charming little town! I would like to visit again for a long weekend...maybe do a vlog!

    • @deborahquinette4569
      @deborahquinette4569 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman that would be great and make a video !!!

    • @jaymo8206
      @jaymo8206 Před 2 lety

      Aloha..Im a former Kamaaina from Big Island, Puna side. I had to leave 16 years ago due to high cost of living. Been in SE Asia, but time to move on. Looking for a chill slice of life in Mexico. Good luck.

  • @esthercasoluengo2732
    @esthercasoluengo2732 Před 2 lety

    Lol!! Laughed a lot! I’m mexican and love to see expats videos because is funny to see how we or our country is perceived... YES! I hace travel around the world México is different and FYI Spanish is not easy AT ALL!! You’ll pick it but never speak it correctly with out taking classes

  • @leew3rd
    @leew3rd Před 3 lety

    Another great video Alex. I was typing a paragraph about Tourist Visas and Resident Visas in the form of questions. However the laptop didn't like what I was typing and all my questions vanished. I will just tell folks to watch Alex's ordeal and delay in obtaining her Temporary Residency card. You spelled it out so well Alex.
    Question for you: Have you heard from other expats about which Mexican Consulate is the easiest to deal with? Laredo? Austin? Phoenix? etc. Surprising to many, I'm sure, all Mexican Consulates do not do things exactly the same. Some Consulates will require 12 months of bank statements while others will not, and the same is said for the amount of income one must receive Some will require a higher monthly income in order to qualify for Residency while other Mexican Consulates will require a lesser amount. Each consulate will vary.
    Saludos y abrazos. Hablaremos pronto. (I don't have a Spanish keyboard :-( )

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching, Leland! I'm actually meeting with an immigration consultant today to film a future video about residency in Mexico & plan to ask her some FAQs. I will add this one to the list! In the meantime though, if anyone in the comments wants to sound off with their experience, be my guest 🤓

    • @leew3rd
      @leew3rd Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman If it is not too late? I think I know the answers but just to be 100% certain.
      1. You must apply for a resident visa (Temporary or Permanent) in your home country. (This we know)
      2. Each Mexican Consulate will be different with the requirements to obtain a resident visa. (This we know)
      3. Question: Which consulate location is the best to deal with to obtain residency?
      4. Question: If you are in Mexico on a TOURIST visa and you return to the U.S. to apply for a Resident Visa, are you allowed to re-enter Mexico on the same TOURIST visa while awaiting for approval of your Resident Visa application?
      5. Question: When notified of your Resident Visa approval, and you return to the U.S. (in my case), to pick up the approved application papers, you should NOT return to Mexico using the unexpired TOURIST visa? I am fairly sure that if you re-enter Mexico with the TOURIST Visa, it will VOID your new RESIDENT Visa!
      6. Upon entering Mexico with your new RESIDENT Visa, you then have 30 days in which to present yourself to a Mexican Immigration office closest to you, in order to finalize the process and receiving your Resident card. (You will receive it soon, or in your case Alex, it languished in the Immigration office for a couple of months!)
      I MAY make the move to Mexico on a Tourist Visa, then go to Laredo or San Antonio to apply for my Resident Visa a few months later. I REALLY don't want to commute to downtown D.C. to apply at the Mexican Embassy......

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      @@leew3rd hi, Leland! Okay, I am going to do my best to answer all your questions 🤓 1) You don't necessarily need to apply in your home country. Just at a consulate outside of Mexico. For example, an American could apply in Costa Rica.
      2) Yes, each consulate varies slightly with its requirements & process.
      3) I asked Ivonne (the immigration specialist) about this today & she said she doesn't have a favorite consulate. Sometimes, it can just depend on who you talk to. I have heard from some subscribers that San Diego is notoriously tough.
      4) After you apply for your resident VISA, you have six months to use that one-time entry to Mexico. You will show your visa at immigration (airport, land crossing, wherever) and they will stamp your FMM for 30 days. You must go to INM within 30 days to finish the second part of the process and get your residency CARD.
      5) Once you submit the paperwork to INM in Mexico for the second part of the process. You must stay in Mexico until your card is ready to be picked up. My case was very extreme due to COVID and a digitization mishap. It shouldn't take more than a month. In some places like CDMX, you get your card back the same day.
      6) I think I answered this in #5, but I also have a detailed blog post about the residency process if you need further clarification: backpackingbrunette.com/temporary-resident-visa-mexico/
      I hope that clears everything up! Thanks for being an awesome part of this community, Leland 🤓

  • @gaming-zombie1392
    @gaming-zombie1392 Před 2 lety

    I watch this video and Why not now video...

  • @bettier
    @bettier Před 3 lety

    Great video, just subscribed! Your video was recommended in my YT feed after watching a bunch of videos from La Karencita (also @lakarencitaa). She's a native Mexican that is married to a Brit and they live in Queretaro. They make videos (mostly in English) about living in Mexico.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for subscribing! I'm so glad to have you here 🤓

  • @tcb1017
    @tcb1017 Před 3 lety +1

    Also one thing that will help me out already me moving to Mexico someday is that I'm a big fan of Juan Gabriel and Frida kallio. I even have them both tattooed on my back.................that's how crazy I am about Mexico. So with that, I think I will be fine LOL living there in the future. Hopefully someday when I'm out there walking I will bump in finding my Amor so we both can then sing Juanka's song Amor Eterno. TCB.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      It sounds like you're ready to move to Mexico!

    • @tcb1017
      @tcb1017 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman I would be there already but I'm going to wait till the world is healed and we are all vaccinated so I have time. Gosh, the only thing in my life that I have is time so I can wait LOL. Everything good LOL !

    • @tcb1017
      @tcb1017 Před 3 lety

      @CO That's a good one, mucho amor.

  • @tcb1017
    @tcb1017 Před 3 lety

    Alex, very good video again, as you knw I'm a big fan. You explain everything so up front and honest. I watch good old Bill in Lake Chapala also, he is just as good as you being a man. So anyway, Me myself, I'm preparing my life also to hopefully move to Mexico someday and what I have already planned is that ok, just like you said.............rent first, but what I will do even better for me rent through RNBNB that has everything so no need to just rent an empty apartment and then buy everything you need in the apartment so for me, first RNBNB and then later is so who knows. Like you said also, stay on that 180 day tourist visa and enjoy life and if you then whatever that day you need to fly over the boarder ok, then take a few days vacation fly to Vegas and gamble a little and then back for another 180 days ok, there so went your 1 year already so ok, everybody has there own baggage but mine, mine is easy since I only have me and 1 suite case with a few t shirts, maybe 1 par of shoes why even try to bring lots of stuff there since you can but everything there. I heard and seen people bringing everything I'm saying everything including some old flowers wow...........................................don't Mexico have flowers LOL ! Ok, end of my story. TCB.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching, TCB! It sounds like you have a great plan in place for moving to Mexico. I moved to Mexico with just two suitcases and a backpack. It really wasn't difficult or expensive to furnish our house--I actually enjoyed the process! Your plan to rent an Airbnb to start is a great idea if you just want to settle into life in Mexico & not spend three months on the phone with the sofa people (that was me October-January 😅)

    • @tcb1017
      @tcb1017 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman Hi again, I'm going to bring only 1 suitcase that's all. Plenty of everything in Mexico so for me why bring whatever no, only 1 suitcase and myself and my debit and credit cards that's all. I have a simple very relaxed stress free life so I will be just fine when I'm in Mexico starting my new life so if it will be 2022 or 2023 hopefully no longer an 2023 then I'm all there. Meanwhile I keep watching and learning from you and also to support you because you need the money I don't I'm retired and only myself to take care of LOL !

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      @@tcb1017 I appreciate the support!

    • @tcb1017
      @tcb1017 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman You are welcome. I'm all in supporting you, you make super great videos explain everything so clear and well. Keep trucking LOL, as they say in our good old USA.

  • @thedeo6557
    @thedeo6557 Před 2 lety

    Do you have any videos or interviews or insights not yet shared about moving to Mexico with a toddler?

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 2 lety

      As of now, I don't have any content about moving to Mexico with children.

  • @pacopeso8474
    @pacopeso8474 Před 3 lety

    Good advise, moving to Mexico was difficult but I married a Latina and she has spoiled me. I like the pace of Mexico you can't come down and expect it to be like the US.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching, Paco! Yes, I totally agree with you. The pace & cadence of life is just different in Mexico. People who move here must be ready to embrace that.

  • @bananapatch9118
    @bananapatch9118 Před 2 lety +1

    Can you recommend a dentist in Queretaro that does implants PLEASE ? We are in desperate need. Thank you so much !

  • @waynevandermeer3139
    @waynevandermeer3139 Před 3 lety

    Good info. Looks like I’m coming down for first time (Veracruz) in April. So for just a 2-3 week would u recommend I get a debit card? And one more thing I was wondering is phone service. I’m in the Midwest with ATT service. Just wondering when down there how we make calls back to the states. I’m sure there’s no ATT cell towers down there. ???? Thks for any insight

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Hi, Wayne! I have AT&T down here and am able to use my phone when I'm in the US, so I am guessing it would also work the other way around...maybe double-check with the company though because I don't want you to get hit with any crazy charges! As for the Charles Schwab account, it wouldn't hurt to get one now to always have as your travel debit card to use in the future. Those ATM fee reimbursements are really nice!

  • @FierceFearlessTravel
    @FierceFearlessTravel Před 2 lety

    So people say you should do a trial run with a visitor visa but then you go back then does the 6 months of pay stubs income required start again? That’s my concern. I plan on visiting just a week at a time from work.

  • @Lukresia909
    @Lukresia909 Před 2 lety

    Fireworks can be so annoying even for the locals...😪

  • @cruzalejandro2915
    @cruzalejandro2915 Před rokem

    The mistakes are things that happening when do not are information or questions
    Saludos hermosa mujer encantadora brunette 😘

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před rokem +1

      Gracias por ver!

    • @cruzalejandro2915
      @cruzalejandro2915 Před rokem

      @@alex-wittman yeah! I like so much your videos son bien interesantes🧡 👌👌

  • @jeronimogonzalez7325
    @jeronimogonzalez7325 Před rokem

    I’m looking for a villa in our around
    What about 5 star villa

  • @testoyobservando822
    @testoyobservando822 Před 3 lety

    Do you rent or bought property? What about advantages of having a bank account in Mexico versus the U.S.??You might have mentioned this before but I missed it. And thinking that by now you have a RESIDENT VISA. Thank you!!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Hi, thanks for watching! I rent my house. When you have a Mexican bank account, just a few of the benefits I can think of off the top of my head are being able to join rewards programs and paying for large purchases on a payment plan.

  • @jvillaro
    @jvillaro Před 3 lety

    Hi Alex, thanks for the info.
    I wanted to ask something about the visa you applied for. As you're no married, I suppose both you and your boyfriend applied for one. But do you know if a married person can apply for the whole family?
    Thanks in advance if you can reply. Keep up the great work!

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Hi, José! I'm actually meeting with an immigration consultant later today to film a future video & plan to get the answers to some FAQs about applying for residency in Mexico. I will add your question to my list!

  • @cheesepizza20340
    @cheesepizza20340 Před 21 dnem

    Very broadly, if Madrid was Mexico City, is Guadalajara like Barcelona?

  • @mixnmichael1
    @mixnmichael1 Před 3 lety

    Staying at a 5 star resort probably doesn't qualify. I keep thinking I should give it a year and see how it goes.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      A year will definitely give you time to adjust and see if Mexico is right for you. Thanks for watching, Mike!

  • @bananapatch9118
    @bananapatch9118 Před 3 lety

    We are moving there in 3 years. We have a short list of cities with Queretaro and San Cristobal de las Casas as our top 2, BUT we’d visit 10 or 12 cities before just bailing on the whole country. And if we just hate the entire country, we are off to Colombia, Ecuador...or SE Asia. I think we’ll find a home there somewhere. Our must haves-
    Cool weather, safety, good hospital close by just in case, lots of things to do, good food, good cost of living.
    We watch Vagabond Awake, Tangerine travels, two travelers in Mexico, your channel, and many others.
    We speak Spanish and have lived abroad before. We do have one question...if you get a Mexican cell phone service but have financial accounts in the US, when they send you a code to verify you....can you get the code ? THANKS !

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      To answer your question about the two-step verification, a Mexican # works fine for Google, but I run into problems with banks. I usually rely on a trusted family member to help me out. Thanks for watching & sharing your must-haves! It sounds like you've put a lot of thought into your move already which means you'll be super prepared when the time comes 🤓

  • @Mmmmkaaay
    @Mmmmkaaay Před 3 lety

    There are so many language courses out there. Do you recommend one that offers many levels beyond Duolingo or Rosetta Stone?
    One that will bring you to fluency?

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      As far as courses, I have heard good things about Lingoda. Personally, I like to use italki to find private tutors who will design a curriculum to fit my needs and goals as a student 🤓

    • @Mmmmkaaay
      @Mmmmkaaay Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman Great! Thanks so much. 😁

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      @@Mmmmkaaay good luck!

  • @rasheedahabdullah8799
    @rasheedahabdullah8799 Před 2 lety

    Exodus Summit; Yar bos; Solo Travelers; Traveling over 60

  • @gregorgman
    @gregorgman Před 2 lety

    Does Mexico have a postal system?

  • @brianpan6453
    @brianpan6453 Před 3 lety

    Are ATMS attached to banks plentiful in Quero. and any other cities you have visited to withdraw cash using a Schwab card?

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching, Brian! There are lots of ATMs in Queretaro & I've never had any issues withdrawing money with my Charles Schwab card. The only place in Mexico where I've had problems was Tulum. It didn't have anything to do with my card just there were very few ATMs, and due to high demand, they ran out of money!

    • @brianpan6453
      @brianpan6453 Před 3 lety

      @@alex-wittman , thanks! 😃

  • @jeffjohnston6054
    @jeffjohnston6054 Před rokem

    She doesn’t talk about Canadians open an account with Scotia Bank there are many in Mexico to avoid ATM fees I opened the account on Canada and use my bank card in Mexico at any Scotia Bank In Mexico

  • @chrisburns2
    @chrisburns2 Před 3 lety

    You can open an account with Santander. They're not supposed to, but they'll do it.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Interesting. I hadn't heard that. Thanks for sharing your experience, Chris!

  • @chefebispo
    @chefebispo Před 2 lety

    Also add re cell phones the common American mistake of buying any new cell phone that does NOT support dual SIM. With it, you won't have to choose between your old cherished US account and the new, much more affordable Mexican one. Just downgrade your US number to the cheapest PAYG plan around, switch your phone data settings to your Mexican SIM, and voila, best of both worlds.
    Note that dual-SIM is the norm in most of the world, but *not* in the United States (or, I presume, Canada). Samsung, OnePlus, and probably many more manufacturers include dual SIM on all the new phones they sell around the world, EXCEPT here. So if you're in the US, thinking of moving to Mexico or even thinking of traveling abroad at all, *don't* buy the crippled model they distribute here. Find a model you like, then search for its global version on eBay. You'll be glad you did.

  • @boink800
    @boink800 Před 3 lety +1

    And Mexico gives out 180-day tourist visas to many other countries as well -- Mexico is one of the most generous countries with that 180-day tourist visa. And best of all, Mexico tolerates visa runs. When your tourist visa is finished, leave the country and go back in ... you get another 180 days.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Yes, the tourist visa is so so generous! And like you said, so many more countries on the "no visa" list than just the US & Canada. I really try to encourage people to take advantage of giving life in Mexico a trial run before going all in.

    • @leew3rd
      @leew3rd Před 3 lety +2

      ​@boink800 @@alex-wittman Be careful of the game of renewing your Tourist Visa by going out and coming right back in on a new Tourist Visa. I've heard there are some border crossings that are frowning on this practice. I know it is done a LOT, but there is a chance you may encounter an Immigration Official who hasn't had his 2nd cup of coffee yet and not be in the best of moods.

  • @porfiriogarcia8132
    @porfiriogarcia8132 Před 3 lety

    Hola bonita

  • @luvablesweetnsassy
    @luvablesweetnsassy Před 3 lety

    I enjoy your videos and wish you the best in building up your channel! I also enjoy Tangerine Travels and Two Expats Mexico. Paul of Two Expats also has a great Spanish learning channel at qroo.us and on CZcams.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks for watching, Lainey! I'm so happy to have you here!

  • @ovh992
    @ovh992 Před rokem

    Smooth move on how you used the word "onus"! 👎👎🏽👎🏿👎🏻

  • @catobie1948
    @catobie1948 Před 3 lety

    YES YES YES pictures really lie. Especially furnished apartments. Seeing in person is believing.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching & backing me up on that very important point, Cat!

  • @LUKKA2020
    @LUKKA2020 Před 5 měsíci

    Such a cutie you are!!!🥰🥰

  • @genaroignot3332
    @genaroignot3332 Před 3 lety

    Hi honey Happy day

  • @eduardobaz6413
    @eduardobaz6413 Před 2 lety

    you are right Mexico is not for everyone, and most americans shoujld stay in the usa.

    • @alex-wittman
      @alex-wittman  Před 2 lety

      I think whenever a person moves to another country, it's important to do so with the right attitude.

  • @Luckey900
    @Luckey900 Před 4 měsíci

    Siesta : ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.................................

  • @alexwittman2204
    @alexwittman2204 Před 3 lety +6

    I hope you find this advice for moving to Mexico helpful! Looking back, I probably could have done better with mistake 9 as well 🤔