We’re beginning a new chapter . . . a new adventure. This time, our travels take us into the vibrant heart of Latin America - to Mexico. Our journey has just begun, and we’re eager to explore Mexico's unique culture - expecting it to be quite different from the American and European cultures we’ve become familiar with.
Over the course of our four-month trip, we will be visiting six different places: Guanajuato, San Miguel De Allende, Queretaro, Puerto Vallarta, Oaxaca, and the Ajijic/Lake Chapala area.
We now find ourselves in a world filled with vibrant colors, lively music, and the rich flavors of traditional dishes. Like Europe, Mexico boasts a wealth of history, art, and tradition with its beautiful blend of indigenous traditions and Spanish influence, all harmonizing to create a distinct cultural identity. This identity is marked by the warmth and welcoming nature of its people, and the communal spirit of its towns and cities.
We are particularly excited about experiencing the country’s celebrated food scene. Mexican food is so much more than the universally beloved tacos and tequila. We’re looking forward to tasting regional specialties like mole, chiles en nogada, and the many dishes that are distinct to each region - each with its own unique story of cultural creativity.
However, our current mission to explore Mexico goes beyond mere cultural immersion. It’s really about our quest to discover a new place to call home. As we've shared in the past, our desire to relocate is ever-present with us on our travels, and Mexico offers many things that appeal to us. While Europe still holds a special place in our hearts, with locations like Corfu and Portugal high on our list of possibilities, Mexico offers certain unique advantages that are too compelling to ignore.
One of the core reasons why Mexico is so appealing is its geographical proximity to the U.S. We can stay more connected to family and friends because of the shorter and more economical flights. And let’s face it – part of our dream is that, once we are settled, we will not only return to the states several times a year but will also have many visitors!
The ability to live in a temperate climate is also appealing. We love the idea of indoor – outdoor living, and we can find that both in the highlands and on the coast of Mexico.
We find the cultural richness of Mexico, deeply rooted in its indigenous people, and intertwined with Spanish colonial influences, to be fascinating. We've found their vibrant traditions, such as festivals, music, art, and food, to be both enriching and captivating. And Carla, who still works in the states as a residential architect and designer, is constantly brimming over with new ideas because of all the architecture and crafts that we are seeing.
As I'm about to hit the 70-year milestone in a few days, healthcare is also important to us. Thankfully, Mexico's healthcare system is strong and has both public and private facilities available. What's more, the private health institutions often offer quality care at a fraction of what it costs in the U.S, which is a factor that we cannot ignore.
We're also excited by the prospect of adopting the laid-back lifestyle that Mexico is famous for. We're ready to unlearn our old “Type A” habits and embrace a more balanced and easy-going lifestyle. Additionally, Mexico's stunning beauty, with its gorgeous landscapes and historical towns, creates an enticing backdrop for continued travel and exploration.
The presence of well-established expatriate communities throughout Mexico, especially in the areas we're considering, certainly adds appeal. While we have a deep appreciation for authentic cultures, having a like-minded and English-speaking community for support, particularly during the initial phase of relocation, is crucial for integration, advice, companionship, and a sense of belonging as we think about settling into a new place.
Lastly, it's important to acknowledge how attractive Mexico is. Her rich mix of cultures, traditions, and history coupled with the genuine warmth, hospitality, and friendliness of her people offer a vibrant sense of community - creating a sense of welcome that is so prevalent in Latin culture.
An exciting adventure awaits us. We eagerly anticipate seeing what Mexico has to offer, and we look forward to sharing our stories and experiences as we move from one place to the next. Mexico promises to provide an incredible chapter in our tale of exploration . . . and, who knows, along the way we might even stumble upon our new home.
Stay with us on this journey . . . Adios!
