living in mexico

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Cabo San Lucas, Destinations, FAQ, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Real Estate, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Investing in Mexico: Choices To Consider

Do you want to invest in Mexico? Are you hoping to buy real estate for a permanent move, or do you want a vacation home? Or do you want to invest in a vacation club where you can enjoy regular vacations at the top resorts, all while staying on budget? There are many choices to consider including our exclusive beachfront residences at Villa La Estancia. At Villa La Estancia, we offer luxury beachfront homes in Riviera Nayarit and Cabo San Lucas. Read below to learn about the different ways you can invest your money in Mexico.

  • Timeshare Ownership: 

Timeshare ownership is a good choice for travelers who don’t have a ton of time to travel, but want to stay at the best resorts. If you prepay for future vacations at today’s low rates, you actually save money, too. Villa Group Resorts is one of the top timeshare providers in Mexico. They have 9 luxury resorts in the best locations including Riviera Nayarit, Puerto Vallarta, Loreto, Cancun and Cabo San Lucas. To learn more about timeshare ownership, you can tour a property and watch their sales presentations. All the fine details regarding timeshare ownership are in the membership contract. Then, you schedule your vacation time on the timeshare calendar. That way, you secure your preferred travel dates on the official timeshare calendar. All that is left to do is show up for your vacation and have the time of your life.

  • Hotel-Condo Concept at Villa La Estancia: 

A modern concept for investing in Mexico is the hotel-condo concept. A condo-hotel is a condominium or private residence that is attached to other units located in a resort. At Villa La Estancia, our valued homeowners enjoy the benefits of homeownership, but also have access to resort-quality amenities. Our amazing amenities include a professional concierge, room service, beautiful pools, well-equipped gyms, and onsite restaurants. Plus, maid service and private chefs are available as well. For homeowners that travel a lot, a hotel-condo is a great idea. When you leave your property, you know that property management will keep an eye on your home while you are gone. With 24 hour security, you don’t have to worry about your investment. As stated above, Villa La Estancia is a top hotel-condo property with locations in Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. We have a limited number of beachfront residences for sale. Plus, we also offerfractional ownership where multiple unrelated parties share partial ownershipof a high-value property. That way, each fractional owner can use the home for a set time period each year in their vacation home. Fractional ownership is a great choice for individuals who want a vacation home without the full financial commitment of buying a home outright. Want to learn more? Contact us at Villa La Estancia today to schedule a property tour and request more information. We even offer a Try and Buy program for qualified applicants to test out their dream home in Mexico.

  • Traditional Condominiums and Homes: 

Some foreigners decide to invest in Mexico and buy real estate. Whether they choose a condo or stand alone home, coastal real estate is typically less expensive in Mexico when compared with similar properties in the US or Canada. However, maintenance and upkeep is something to think about if you don’t want to waste your vacation time doing housework. Condos will charge monthly maintenance fees, and standalone homes will require you to find people to handle repairs and maintenance of your home.

Since homes require a lot of maintenance and upkeep, many expats decide that timeshare ownership or a hotel-condo concept like Villa La Estancia is the best choice. That way, they can focus on enjoying a better quality of life in Mexico. What are you looking for in your second home in Mexico?

What type of Mexican real estate do you want to invest in? Remember, Villa La Estancia is a top choice for expats. Our gorgeous beachfront residences allow you to enjoy amazing views, great weather, and access to premiere amenities and services, too. Shouldn’t every day feel like vacation? Contact us Villa La Estancia today to see what you’ve been missing. Don’t forget to see if you qualify for our Try and Buy program too. Make the most of life and take a leap of faith and experience the good life in Mexico. At Villa La Estancia, your second home in paradise awaits.

by VLEAdminRE,
Cabo San Lucas, FAQ, Real Estate, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Thanksgiving at Villa La Estancia

Did you know that Thanksgiving has become more popular in Mexico due to the influence of more than 1 million American citizens live in Mexico? Today, many expats and native Mexicans who lived in the U.S. for some time before moving back home, celebrate Thanksgiving in Mexico. Are you an expat living in Cabo or Riviera Nayarit at Villa La Estancia and want to celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday, Nov. 28th, 2021? Whether you decide to cook at home in the comfort of your spacious beachfront residence, or decide to enjoy a nice dinner at a restaurant in the Banderas Bay area, keep reading below to learn about Thanksgiving in Mexico.

Thanksgiving Celebrations in Mexico 

While Thanksgiving traditions in Mexico are quite similar to those in America, there are some differences. In Mexico and in the U.S., Thanksgiving celebrations focus on a harvest concept including decorations such as fall leaves, pumpkins, assorted fruits, regional flowers, and autumn color schemes. Thanksgiving is a time where people give thanks to God for their blessings and spend time with their family and friends. It is common practice in Mexico for guests at a Thanksgiving meal to share a short prayer of gratitude at the beginning of the meal. Although a religious component of Thanksgiving is still evident in some American households, it is especially common in Mexico with more than 82% of the Mexican population identifying as Catholic.

Flavors of a Mexican Thanksgiving 

American style Thanksgiving meal usually consists of a cooked turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes & gravy, vegetables and cranberry sauce. Mexico has added some unique foods to make Thanksgiving in Mexico an extra special event. Did you know that some people celebrating Thanksgiving in Mexico will prepare traditional dishes such as marinated roast pork instead of turkey? If a cooked turkey is on the menu, it may be made with a green mole sauce or contain spicy chipotle peppers. Some parts of Mexico you will find turkey enchiladas, chorizo pumpkin soup or a candied pumpkin dessert on the Thanksgiving menu. Are you going to be in Mexico at Villa La Estancia in Cabo or Riviera Nayarit during Thanksgiving this year?

Thanksgiving at Villa La Estancia

At Villa La Estancia in Cabo and in Riviera Nayarit, many homeowners in the exclusive enjoy preparing a Thanksgiving meal at their vacation home to invite friends and family to celebrate with them. Villa La Estancia beachfront residences are Ideal for entertaining and the spacious patio gives great ocean views that your guests will love. The indoor-outdoor living concept really opens up your home, yet it still feels cozy and warm. If you aren’t in the mood to cook or do dishes, Villa La Estancia homeowners can also head downstairs to La Casona to enjoy a delicious gourmet Thanksgiving meal.

Villa La Estancia homeowners, Thanksgiving is nearly here! This time of the year means that we should all be thankful for our blessings and enjoy celebrating together with friends and family.

Celebrate with us Thanksgiving at Villa La Estancia Riviera Nayarit.

 

Thanksgiving Dinner Villa del Palmar Event

 

Read more:

5 Tips for Enjoying Retirement In Mexico

Moving to Mexico Checklist

 

by VLEAdminRE,
Cabo San Lucas, Destinations, Real Estate, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Moving to Mexico? Read this First

Mexico is a very popular country that attracts thousands of visitors every year due to its fantastic weather, natural beauty, and tasty cuisine. After visiting Mexico, many people decide they love the country so much they want to move to Mexico full time, or buy a vacation home. Are you moving to Mexico and hoping to own property at Villa La Estancia? If so, read this first! Below are 7 tips for expats moving to Mexico. After you read it, you will see that if you have patience, understanding, and appreciation of this incredible country your move to Mexico will allow you to have a new life that is better than you ever expected it could be.

Learn Basic Spanish

You don’t have to learn fluent Spanish when you move to Mexico, but you should at least try to learn basic Spanish. That way, you will have a better understanding and generally improved experience while living in Mexico. When you are able to communicate with local people it will build trust and friendship, which will benefit you when you move to Mexico. It will provide a better cultural experience which will add value and fulfillment to your life. When you learn basic Spanish, it could also bring you new employment opportunities that you wouldn’t have gotten otherwise.

A Proper Greeting Is Important 

No matter where in the world you live, a proper greeting is important. If you are moving to Mexico, then you need to learn the standard proper greetings that are practiced by the locals. In general, Mexican people usually greet new people or friends and acquaintances with a firm handshake, a hug, and sometimes a kiss. You should always start your interactions with a proper vocal greeting as well, depending on the time of day. If it is morning, then you will say “Buenos Dias” (Good Morning), if it is afternoon, then you will say “Buenas Tardes” (Good Afternoon), and if it is evening “Buenas Noches” (Good Evening). Also, when you walk into a room where people are, it is expected that you greet every person in the room before you start a conversation. It is also very important that you say “Provecho” (Bon Appetit) when you are leaving a restaurant to be polite to other diners. By saying “Provecho,” you are simply wishing people enjoy their meal and it is considered the way to execute an appropriate departure.

Understand that Tardiness is Culturally Accepted

Mexicans are known for being laid back and carefree in many areas of life, including when it comes to showing up on time. Although, this is one of the best and worst features of Mexico, foreigners that are moving to Mexico need to prepare themselves if they are waiting on someone, because it is possible they will arrive late. Not every Mexican is always late, but lateness is culturally accepted with events, parties, work and responsibilities at school. If you don’t know about a specific time to arrive, then you should ask. You don’t want to show up at a party too early or on time and the guest isn’t ready for you. It is generally recommended that you show up 30 minutes to an hour late for events, parties, and social gatherings.

It’s Not Common to Be Blunt 

Did you know that many Mexicans find it rude to be direct or blunt? While Americans find it okay to be direct, in Mexico it can be considered rude. A common scenario is: if a Mexican offers you food and you are not hungry, you should still accept it, because they will think you are rude if your refuse the food. You can just take the food, then not eat it discreetly. Also, on another note, Mexicans may agree to do something, but they later don’t follow through. In Mexico, it is acceptable to agree to something and not do it later instead of being honest from the start. If you invite friends to your event and they agree to come, but they don’t come, then don’t be surprised or hurt. This is culturally common and not intended to be rude or disrespectful.

Don’t Judge Others In Your New Home

Moving to Mexico will open your eyes about lifestyle differences compared to your life back home in the United States or Canada. Foreigners that are moving to Mexico are often troubled with the significant trash problems and the stray cats and dogs they see around town. Foreigners from developed countries often can’t comprehend why Mexicans don’t appear to care as much as they do about stray animals and environmental problems. However, the truth is many native Mexicans can’t financially afford to help and it is a luxury many people have not had. While there are numerous educated Mexicans who are concerned about these issues, regular residents that have a hard time providing food and housing for their family will not worry as much over social issues. You will have to understand, empathize and respect that each individual’s situation is different and avoid being judgemental.

Enjoy Traditional Mexican Cuisine

Moving to Mexico comes with an amazing benefit, which is enjoying the incredible delicious cuisine. Some of the best food can be found at inexpensive street vendors and small restaurants. Don’t believe what others say about the food from street vendors will make you sick. This is generally untrue! Do you want to know where to go to eat the best tacos? That’s easy. You should patronize the street vendors or restaurants that are crowded and avoid those that are empty. Did you know you will likely be eating the freshest foods at street vendors? You are, because the high turnover means always getting fresh foods. You will also be able to eat fresh fruit all year, because it grows in Mexico’s pleasant climate all year long. For only a dollar or so, you can enjoy fresh squeezed green, carrot, and orange juice.

Take Part in Activities and Hobbies

Now that you have moved to Mexico, you will have extra time to enjoy many different activities and hobbies. Mexico’s natural beauty allows new expats to enjoy gardening, swimming, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, biking, photographing, and more. You can also sign up for different workshops such as painting or a cooking class, and you will meet new people that you can become friends with. The options are endless!

Moving to Mexico is ideal for foreigners who want to enjoy a slower paced, more fulfilling lifestyle. Mexico is well-known for its natural beauty, tasty food, and rich heritage. You will not regret moving to Mexico. What are you waiting for? Your new life in paradise awaits you in Mexico. Contact us at Villa La Estancia today to see what incredible beachfront residences are still available for sale. With premiere locations in both Riviera Nayarit and Cabo San Lucas, Villa La Estancia could be the dream home in paradise you have been searching for foreigners who are moving to Mexico.

You should read:

Real Estate Options for Expats in Mexico

Pre-Construction Real Estate in Mexico: What To Know

by VLEAdminRE,
Cabo San Lucas, Destinations, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Real Estate, Riviera Nayarit

5 Tips for Enjoying Retirement In Mexico

What comes to mind when you think of retirement? Do you imagine sitting peacefully as you read a book or engage in a crossword puzzle as you comfortably relax? While these tranquil hobbies are in no doubt super satisfying for some people, there is so much more out there if you want to live life to the fullest. How do you plan to make the most of your retirement in Mexico? Villa La Estancia residents listen up! It is time to enjoy your second youth to the fullest by implementing the below 5 tips for enjoying retirement in Mexico.

Retirement in Mexico Tip 1: Exercise and Eat Healthy 

Regardless of whether you are retired or still in the workforce, daily regular exercise and a healthy diet are crucial. Keeping your body and mind fit are some of the benefits of regular exercise, and it will certainly make your life better. Get outdoors and enjoy nature at the same time and you reap double benefits. Swimming, walking, hiking and yoga are great activities to stay in shape regardless of your current fitness level. Thanks to Villa La Estancia’s ideal locations in Riviera Nayarit and Cabo San Lucas, you have convenient access to walk some of the best beaches in the area right at your front door. In addition to exercise, eating healthy is especially important during your older years. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables, and try to limit your intake of processed foods. Treat yourself to your favorite foods and drinks, but remember everything in moderation.

Retirement in Mexico Tip 2: Travel

For many people, travelling is one of the best parts of life. Exploring new locations and seeing different cultures is interesting and enjoyable. For those lucky enough to enjoy retirement in Mexico, you are fortunate to have access to a bounty of great places to visit. Beachside towns, quaint mountain towns, and colonial towns are all found in this incredible country. Which places interest you most? Take the time to do some research and hit the road and make your travel dreams during retirement in Mexico a reality.

Retirement in Mexico Tip 3: Get a Part Time Job or Volunteer

Have you heard that some people experience a feeling of loneliness when they retire? It is very common to feel a bit lost or useless when you first retire. However, to avoid the retirement blues, get a part time job or volunteer at a local organization. It’s a great way to stay busy and socialize as human connection and interaction with others is very important. Also, you now have the freedom to choose something that really interests you. Spend time doing something you love whether it is working with children, animals or an environmental organization. Give back to your community and you will enjoy a more fulfilling life at the same time. Ask Villa La Estancia front desk if they have any suggestions on activities and organizations who could use a helping hand.

Retirement in Mexico Tip 4: Take Up a Hobby

Did you spend your years working without having time to devote to a hobby or pastime? Now that you’re enjoying retirement in Mexico, take advantage of your free time and take up a hobby. What comes to mind when you think of your favorite hobby? Is it music, arts and crafts, painting or something else? Do you want to finally write that great novel you’ve been daydreaming about, or get serious and learn photography through a class or workshop? With retirement, you have the chance to discover your passions. Try out a variety of activities so you can find something that will make your retirement in Mexico even more enjoyable.

Retirement in Mexico Tip 5: Prioritize Family Time

Time spent with family is one of the greatest rewards to enjoy during retirement in Mexico. If you are lucky enough to live in paradise at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit or Cabo San Lucas, it will be easy to invite your family to visit… in fact, you may even have to kick them out if they get too comfortable at your incredible beachside oasis. While adult children often have busy lives that make it difficult to visit, prioritize family time now that you’re enjoying retirement in Mexico and try to connect regularly. Do you have grandchildren? If so, take extra time with them to create lasting, special memories that both you and them will treasure forever.

Make the most of your second youth by using these 5 tips for enjoying retirement in Mexico to the fullest!

You should read:

Moving to Mexico Checklist

Travel Tips for Expats in Mexico

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, FAQ, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Real Estate, Residences

A Simpler Life: Expats in Mexico

What is the reason why you decided to move to Mexico? (Or are contemplating a move to Mexico?). For some people, it is the lure of a simpler life not hyper focused on material possessions and a fast paced lifestyle. Here are a few reasons why you can find a simpler, yet more fulfilling life, with a move to Mexico.

Less Focus On Materialism

One of the best parts of a move to Mexico, is the chance to reconnect with what we enjoy most about life. Is it time with our family or children? Is it spending time working on a creative hobby, or exploring new cultures? A fast paced life in the United States or Canada can be overwhelming at times, and also feel lacking in depth. A move to Mexico can help you improve your quality of life and spend more time doing what you love.

Less Work, More Play

Thanks to the lower cost of living in Mexico, a move to Mexico can mean you have a better quality of life than you have in the United States or Canada. Instead of filling your days with work and stress, you may find you have more time for play and spending time with loved ones. It is a great chance to identify your priorities, and realign your daily life with what matters most. You can let go of superficial concerns and really focus in on a simpler life with a emphasis on quality, not quantity. Now the only question is, what fulfills you?

Access to Quality Healthcare

In addition to slowing down your life’s pace with a move to Mexico, you will also find that quality healthcare is very accessible and affordable. Regular doctor visits typically only cost around $30-$50USD out of pocket, and most prescriptions are very well priced too when compared to the excessive cost of healthcare in the United States. There are several governmental healthcare institutions in Mexico such as IMSS, ISSSTE and the Seguro Popular that are available to expats at little to no cost. Even private healthcare insurance options are very reasonably priced, and doctors are very attentive and qualified.

Affordable Mexican Real Estate

Is owning your own home not possible in your native country due to excessive real estate prices? With a move to Mexico, you may be able to realize a dream of becoming a homeowner by purchasing Mexican real estate. Mexican real estate options are varied, and much better priced than similar real estate options in other countries. Mexican real estate can be legally purchased by expats by creating a trust, so perhaps a move to Mexico will help you find your dream home as well.

Many people that move to Mexico obtain a simpler, more stable lifestyle that focuses on family and enjoying each moment life offers you. Is a move to Mexico in the cards for you?

Recommendations for You:

10 Reasons to make Mexico your Home

Villa La Estancia: Mexican Dream Home

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, FAQ, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Real Estate, Residences

Moving to Mexico: Expat Life

These days, more and more Americans and Canadians are planning to spend their retirement in Mexico. A few major reasons why Americans and Canadians are choosing Mexico as their retirement destination include the amazing weather and a lifestyle that is relaxed and laid back, which sometimes isn’t as easy to find in their own native countries. Another major factor is the healthcare is high quality and affordably priced, which is especially hard to come by in the United States and in Canada. If you are wanting to retire where the cost of living is affordable so you can truly enjoy your retirement, then Mexico is a great choice. Can you see yourself as an expat in Mexico?

To enjoy a retirement that is stress-free, you should start planning ahead now. We have provided several reasons why you may want to consider becoming an expat in Mexico.

  • Vacation Time Year-round: There are many exciting reasons why foreigners choose to become an expat in Mexico and enjoy their retirement. Mexico is known for its beautiful and breathtaking beaches, excellent weather, and affordable living. Mexico isn’t too far away from other countries, which means friends and family members can come and visit you often. Traveling to Mexico from the majority of cities in the US or Canada is usually quite affordable and finding flight deals can be done. If your friends and family members plan on a visit, then they can take advantage of buying in advance for added deals. Many people that actually become an expat in Mexico feel as if they are dreaming as they lay on the beach drinking a cold, delicious cocktail. You will be able to watch spectacular sunsets every day and make the little moments count.
  • Cost of Living is Affordable: To have a wonderful retirement life in Mexico it would cost approximately $2,175USD a month for a couple to retire according to www.internationalliving.com a retirement website. This amount is an estimate and essentially would cover rent, utilities, food, healthcare, and entertainment. A gardener and housekeeper allowance is also included with that estimate. In 2017, the Social Security Administration retired Americans averaged approximately $1,369USD for their retirement income, so if you retire in and become an expat in Mexico, then this amount of income would allow couples to retire comfortably. As the healthcare crisis in the United States continues to occur, Mexico becomes an even more attractive option.
  • Health Care: A top benefit for a Mexico expat is having the access to the best doctors and hospitals at a fraction of the cost you would pay in other countries. If you need to see a doctor for a regular doctor visit in Mexico, then you can expect to pay $500 to $700 pesos, which is approximately $30 to $40 dollars, because the peso is currently at a low. If you need to pay for a prescription you will not be charged a lot of money. This is a major difference as prices for the same type of medicines in the United States or Canada would be significantly more.
  • Delicious Food and Rich Culture: There is much more about Mexico than the healthcare and housing savings. The delicious food and interesting, rich culture can’t be found anywhere in the world. The local residents are very welcoming and warm to expats in Mexico. The street vendors provide delicious food options at excellent prices, and if you love shopping, then you will be happy as there are many shopping options available. Mexico expats will have the options to splurge on fancy restaurants or affordable restaurants as all of the food choices are delicious. An expat in Mexico can enjoy a special outing and have many options for bars, clubs, and restaurants.
  • Luxury Beachfront Real Estate: Another huge benefit to expat life in Mexico is the fabulous beachfront real estate available such as Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit. With world-class amenities and high-end finishes, you can find your dream home in Villa La Estancia’s oceanfront and beachfront private residences that are simply unmatched by other properties. The award-winning Villa La Estancia in beautiful Riviera Nayarit just north of Puerto Vallarta is the perfect luxury beachfront real estate investment. Whether you plan to live full time year round, or just have a comfortable and familiar beautiful vacation home, Villa La Estancia offers quality construction and the best finishes and services. Check out Villa La Estancia’s website at https://rivieranayarit.villalaestanciarealestate.com to learn more about what these breathtaking luxury beachfront residences are still available for purchase. What are you waiting for? The time is now to make Villa La Estancia your new dream home to create the expat life in Mexico you have been thinking of.

When you are ready to plan your retirement, you should consider becoming an expat in Mexico. Mexico is an excellent choice financially and can offer a higher quality of life. You will experience different cultures and when you move to a new country you will have many adventures that you can enjoy. Affordable living and healthcare, delicious foods and adventures, and a rich culture is just a few reasons you should consider becoming an expat in Mexico. And if you are able to set down roots and make your expat dream life a realtity now, check out Villa La Estancia at https://rivieranayarit.villalaestanciarealestate.com to find your dream beachfront private residence today.

nuevo vallarta real estate riviera nayarit

All in all, Mexico is a great place to enjoy your retirement. Are you considering becoming an expat in Mexico? If you do, then we will see you at the beach!

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, FAQ, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Real Estate, Residences

Real Estate in Mexico: Time to Buy?

Mexico has long been one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world thanks to its sandy beaches, warm climate, rich culture and varied cuisine. Mexico truly has something for everyone to enjoy. As a result, more and more foreigners are falling in love with Mexico and want to call it home. Are you considering investing in real estate in Mexico? Read below to learn more so you can make your Mexico real estate dreams come true.

Rising Property Values

It is a great time to invest in real estate in Mexico because property values are on the rise. Property values have been steadily increasing over the last decade, especially in coastal towns. New constructions are constantly popping up, and consequently more buyers are coming forward to purchase real estate in Mexico. Real estate in Mexico is still more affordable than real estate in a coastal town in the United States or Canada, so don’t wait until prices get out of your reach. Two of the top advantages to buying real estate in Mexico is that the cost to maintain your property is very low, and property taxes are significantly less than average property taxes in the United States.

Best Investment

Interested in a real estate property that also comes with fabulous amenities and services? You should check out real estate at the renowned Villa La Estancia. With properties located in Riviera Nayarit and Cabo San Lucas, Villa La Estancia could be the dream home you’ve been searching for. This award winning luxury resort has everything from multiple pools, world class spa, gym, tantalizing restaurants and so much more. All right on the beach with amazing ocean views from every unit. The elegantly designed suites have all the highest quality finishes and touches you deserve. Are you ready to treat yourself to the best?

Foreigners Can Purchase Real Estate in Mexico

In the past, many people believed that foreigners could not own real estate in Mexico near the beach. However, you are able to make your real estate dream come true by establishing a trust in which your property title will be held. Contact one of our professional real estate associates today to help explain further the process required. They will walk you through every step to make the process easy and streamlined so that you can have more time enjoying your piece of real estate in Mexico.

Rental Income

Riviera Nayarit and Cabo San Lucas are two of Mexico’s top tourist destinations. If you purchase real estate in Mexico in these towns, you will have the opportunity to earn rental income by leasing out your property when you are not using it. If you are smart enough to invest in the luxurious Villa La Estancia, our on site staff can assist you in securing renters for your property. They will make sure you have your valuable vacation time allocated on the calendar, so no overlapping or double booking occurs.

If you plan to buy real estate in Mexico, don’t hesitate too long as properties are flying off the market due to increased popularity. The time is now!

Recommended article: 10 Reasons to make Mexico your Home

by VLEAdminRE,
Real Estate

Can you see yourself as an expat in Mexico?

In today’s changing world, more Americans and Canadians are deciding to retire in Mexico than ever before. The laid back lifestyle and great weather are major factors in choosing to live abroad as opposed to retiring in the states. Plus, the access to high-quality healthcare at a reasonable price is something that is becoming very difficult to attain in the US or in Canada. Also, the lower cost of living makes Mexico a great option for those wanting to have a good quality of life at an affordable cost.

Planning ahead for retirement is something that all individuals should do so they can enjoy a stress-free retirement. Here we will take a quick look at how much money you would likely need to become an expat in Mexico and retire in style.

Permanent Vacation
There is so much to offer foreigners looking to settle down and enjoy their retirement as an expat in Mexico. Well known as a popular vacation destination thanks to its beautiful beaches and warm weather, retirement in Mexico offers chance to live in paradise as you make fond memories with your loved ones. Mexico is also geographically close enough to have friends and family visit regularly as opposed to retiring in another country that is farther away. Travel to and from the states to Mexico is usually affordable and it is relatively easy to find good deals on flights, especially if you plan ahead or take advantage of last minute travel deals. Many individuals that become an expat in Mexico feel as if they are living out a dream as they sip cocktails and watch stunning sunsets on the beach as part of their daily routine.

Lower cost of living
According to the retirement website www.internationalliving.com, it would take around $2,175 USD/month for a couple to retire in Mexico and maintain a great quality of life.
This estimate takes into consideration money for rent, food, entertainment, utilities, healthcare and even an allocation for a housecleaner and gardener. Based on averages from the Social Security Administration in 2017, the average monthly amount retired American workers earn is $1,369USD/month which would give a retired expat in Mexico more than enough to live comfortably if they decide to retire as a couple. With healthcare costs alone soaring in the US to records highs, this makes Mexico an extremely attractive option.

Access to private hospitals and doctors is one of the top benefits for an expat in Mexico. A standard doctor visit generally only costs between $500-$700 pesos which translates to only around $30-40 dollars since the peso is near all time lows. In addition to the reasonable cost of a doctor visit, prescriptions and over the counter medicines are also very well priced. For example, the cost of a specific medicine in Mexico costs $175 pesos per bottle which is only around $10 USD. When buying the same medication with no insurance in a US pharmacy, the cost is around $125USD. What a huge difference for the same exact medicine!

Culture and Food
In addition to the savings you will find in housing and healthcare, there truly is so much more about Mexico that makes it special. The amazing food and family centered culture are some of the best in the world. In general, the local people are very friendly and welcoming to an expat in Mexico, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love tacos? Besides delicious and cheap street fare, there are many high end shopping and dining options available as well if you decide to splurge. It is nice to be able to have access to both lower priced options that are so tasty, as well as fancier restaurants and bars for special outings for an expat in Mexico.

In conclusion, when starting to plan for your future, consider that retirement in Mexico might be a viable and financially smart choice. If you love experiencing different cultures and find a sense of enjoyment in the adventure that comes with moving to a new country, becoming an expat in Mexico might just be right for you. From the affordable healthcare, lower cost of living to the amazing food and culture, Mexico is truly a wonderful place to retire. Do you see yourself becoming an expat in Mexico? If so, we will see you on the beach!

Take a look at your next home in Mexico. 

https://rivieranayarit.villalaestanciarealestate.com/

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, FAQ, Real Estate

Tipping in Mexico

In Mexico, it is customary to tip, but if you don’t leave a tip you don’t have to worry, because you won’t get any slack, though you might feel a little miserly, especially when you take into consideration that wages in Mexico are pretty low. You must remember that most Mexicans working in the service industry don’t receive a great salary and they do indeed rely on tips that they get. Read on to find out more about tipping in Mexico.

Show your appreciation by tipping in Mexico

When you are in Mexico you can tip with dollar bills or pesos. Avoid leaving dollar coins as the person will not be able to exchange them for pesos or spend them. Tipping in pesos is easier and more practical for the service provider, but he or she will be perfectly happy to receive dollar bills. When you are deciding how to tip, you should base your tip around the service that you have received. In tourist areas in Mexico tipping is around 15% but can be anywhere between 10% and 20% depending on the service.

Restaurants

In Mexico, when dining at any of the restaurants should leave a tip from 10% to 20% of the total bill. If you are with a large group, sometimes the tip is automatically added to the bill, so be sure to check.

Hotels

If the bellhop takes you to your room and helps you with your luggage, then you should tip the bellhop 2-3 dollars or 20-50 pesos. You should also tip the housekeeping staff 2-3 dollars or 20-50 pesos depending on the type of hotel and the service that you have received. It is advisable to tip your housekeeper each day and not on the last day because the housekeeper could change and they will be encouraged by your tip to offer a good service while you are there.

Tipping for Tours

If you go on a tour and you are really impressed with the tour guide, then you should tip the guide 10%-20%. If you have went on a group tour, then the tour guide leader should be tipped between 3 to 5 dollars, while a private tour guide should be tipped at least ten dollars. The bus driver that takes you around on a tour should be tipped two dollars each day. In Mexico, it is not customary to tip taxi drivers unless the taxi drivers has helped you with your bags, then you might consider giving the taxi driver ten pesos for each bag they assist you with.

Grocery Packers

Usually teenagers and seniors bag your groceries at the stores in Mexico and you can tip them one or two pesos for each grocery bag that they have bagged for you. The grocery packers don’t earn a wage and the only pay they receive comes from the tips you give them.

Gas Stations

All of the gas stations in Mexico are full service gas stations. You should always tip the gas station attendant at least 5-10 pesos; and if they check your oil, check your tires, and clean your windshield, then you should tip them more.

Please note that this article is for guidance only and you should feel free to tip as little or as much as you feel appropriate (or indeed leave no tip at all!)

Read more: 10 Reasons to make Mexico your Home

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, FAQ, Real Estate

Tips for a Successful New Life in Mexico

So – you’re moving to Mexico! Congratulations! This is a radical change to your way of life, and we know that it is going to be a little daunting for you at first. This is why we’ve compiled our top hints and tips for succeeding in your new life in Mexico.

Here are our top tips for a successful new life in Mexico

Learn Spanish

Most people in the big cities and tourist hotspots of Mexico speak very good English, and so learning Spanish is not a necessity but there is no doubt in our minds that learning Spanish will help you have a successful new life in Mexico. There are plenty of classes that you can attend if you want to get a basic understanding of the language; when you use it to get to know your neighbors better you’ll find that your grasp of the language increases rapidly.

Be flexible

Flexibility is without a doubt one of the most valuable attributes you can have when you’re making such big changes to your life; a good, solid plan will make the changes easier to deal with, but you should always leave room in your plan for change! Remember that a plan is always a work in progress, and so changing it is never a failure. Be ready and willing to adapt to your situation and you will go far in your new home.

One day, task and goal at a time

It can take a long time to get used to the ways of a new country, and so you should remember to be patient and keep your mind open for a successful new life in Mexico; don’t compare your new home to your old one as this is a sure road to frustration and disappointment. You will also find that a soft approach will get you much further as a foreigner with the locals than if you get frustrated and irate.

Invest in networking

Take the time to network when you arrive; making friends and acquaintances in your new home is key to success. Meet the neighbors, join a gym, say hello to your work mates. You could even join a few of the Facebook groups set up purely for expats in the area. This will help you to establish a friend base and settle into your new home and new life in Mexico.

Savings

It pays to have some money squirrelled to the side to tide you over if you have to make last minute visits back home or need to attend to an emergency when you make a new life in Mexico. Also, you will probably spend more on socialization when you first arrive as you try to get yourself settled, and there’s always the chance you may need repairs to your car or certain aspects of your home; it can take a few tries to get a mechanic, plumber, or electrician you trust. You may not need this cushion, but it will certainly help to know that you have a safety net if you should need it. This peace of mind is truly priceless.

So – have you moved to Mexico recently? Do you have any tips for people looking to make this move? What would your advice be? Let us know in the comments section below!

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by VLEAdminRE,