From Unemployed in USA to FUNemployed In San Miguel De Allende, Mexico

Рет қаралды 122,560

Күн бұрын

When Michael Solof lost his dream job in the US, he found his dream life in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
Michael was the curator of a comic book museum until the collection was purchased by the US Library of Congress. Out of a job, Michael looked at international living, trying a few options before settling in in San Miguel de Allende, 4 hours north of Mexico City in the state of Guanajuato
Sign up for Michael's Photography Workshops: SMAAdventureHound.com
San Miguel de Allende is one of the oldest US expat communities in the world. It's a beautiful, small town where many Americans have created their dream lives or dream retirements. SMA is often listed as one of the best places to retire. Expats from around the world call San Miguel home without overwhelming the local culture.
San Miguel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (and was previously a Pueblo Magico.)
And Michael mentioned how International Magazine helped him create a short list of possible destinations: internationalliving.com/
Support this channel by buying me a margarita over at www.buymeacoffee.com/AlmostRe...
The Mexico Relocation Guide is the perfect resource for moving to Mexico. We've partnered with them and you can get the guide here: mexicorelocationguide.com/?re...
In this video, we're meeting the man who lost his job and found his life in San Miguel de Allende. Michael decided to make the move to Mexico after losing his job in the US.
Michael's story is an inspiring one. He's shown us that there's always hope and opportunity for anyone who is willing to explore and take risks. His story is a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

Пікірлер: 443

@rachelhernandez4574 Жыл бұрын

When I was young I used to lived in USA and american people treat me very nice. It is the most beutiful thing happend to me living in USA. Now I lived in México but USA is in my heart ❤. So Americans wellcome to México.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

So glad you had a positive experience in the US! It all depends who you interact with. Some Americans are great people. Others are racist jerks.

@jklmnoqr 8 ай бұрын

@rachelhernandez4574: Muy estimada Doña Hernandez, Soy norteamericana de los EEUU.(California). Si todo el mundo actuaba como Ud tuviéramos todos la paz y la tranquilidad . Muchísimas gracias por su gran amabilidad y dulces palabras. Ojalá que Ud tenga una vida feliz y que Díos le bendiga con mucha felicidad.🌺🌞🕊️

@juanmiguelestrada9343 Жыл бұрын

People don't understand how much your life changes moving to Mexico. Apart from the weather, prices, culture, great gastronomy and friendly people, as soon as you land here you are stress free, you eat, breath, think and live on another level. Makes you realize that where you live isn't really the land of the free, here you are totally free!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

So true! Thanks for sharing.

@sabinoluevano7447 7 ай бұрын

stress free? LOL have you heard about poverty and the cartels? Mexico works for many gringos because they go with money. That Mexico, seen from the eyes of gringos with money, is a beautiful Mexico. But seeing Mexico from the eyes of most Mexicans, it's a little bit more challenging

@lancekoz 5 ай бұрын

I moved to Mexico and found that there are problems here too, I find your generalization a little simple.

@dalcanta 17 күн бұрын

Mexico is magic

@cindyk3076 Жыл бұрын

Another interesting person, someone who makes his own happy place, love it.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

I think Michael could be happy anywhere!

@kati8359 Жыл бұрын

I really want to visit this coffee shop and all the rescued critters

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

I wish I could tell you where it was. I tried finding it on a map after I got back to La Paz and I couldn't find it. It used to be connected to the road, but then someone built a wall along the road and they got disconnected! But it's charming!!

@sefnfot 4 ай бұрын

I'm interested to learn how to find similar housing opportunities like yours, now all the new construction don't look so good, because finding a treasure like yours looks perfect

@MexicoAdventurer 11 ай бұрын

San Miguel has an attraction that has brought visitors and residents from all over the world. Even our friends from China! My first time here was in 1989, and I decided to make it home, though im a little out of town. I love to hear success stories of people who lose their jobs and ultimately find happiness. God's blessings are on them. (Edited for AutoCorrect failures)

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 11 ай бұрын

Thanks! Congrats on settling in such a beautiful area!

@margaritayavila7455 Жыл бұрын

Great choice!!!! I'm in Nayarit and live very comfortable with $750 SS US dollar pension. When I arrived I paid $100 for a bedroom 1 queen bed rent. Shared kitchen and bathroom. After 3 years I am all set on my own . I pay rent $140 a month, $100 for utilities and internet. $100 medical and $100 groceries. $100 bus or taxi.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Wow! That's great. Congrats on finding an affordable place to live! And thanks for sharing.

@davidtice4972 Жыл бұрын

The United States government gave me a scholarship to go from California to San Miguel Allende to study advanced Spanish, Mexican history, Mexican culture, Mexican music and dance. I stayed with a Mexican family. I also took Salsa lessons at night. I am a Spanish teacher.

@rinaelsayed901 Жыл бұрын

David super interesante tu beca para estudiar en México, y ahora ya todo un profe de español… felicidades!! Y qué tal la historia, fascinante no? Cuídate mucho y bendiciones 🐶🐶

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Was this after military service? Thanks for sharing your story!

@mariamar2114 Жыл бұрын

Mínimo plática un poco de tu experiencia aquí en México..cuáles son los pros y vs ...

@mariamar2114 Жыл бұрын

Habías de hacer un vídeo para que platiques tus vivencias...

@davidtice4972 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Muchos años después de el Army. Long time after.

@JoeCool-jl6oz Жыл бұрын

A genuinely happy man who has embraced his new life with gusto. Thank you for bringing these uplifting stories to us.

@marktsmotivation 5 ай бұрын

I'm from Baltimore and I loved Geppi's Museum. I'm glad that Michael is enjoying life.

@guhlobtrekker Жыл бұрын

Very genuine guy... thanks for your efforts sharing your experience!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Exactly! Happy to share.

@caroltesch2801 Жыл бұрын

this guy can explain anything...best of all is his authenticity...SMA here I come

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Enjoy!

@spderman123 Жыл бұрын

Dream life always more enjoyable than just money it opens you inner nature

@angelainresaleland1982 Жыл бұрын

Friend of Kat's from WA. Saw her story featured and I subscribed and I'm watching all your KZfaq posting and you totally making me want to move there!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Nice to meet you Angela! Glad you subscribed. I've got lots of videos for you to binge watch ;-)

@julesclay8142 Жыл бұрын

Visited several times. Truly, it is an amazing place.

@jc8067 Жыл бұрын

This man really looks like he is having the amazing life the vast majority can’t live.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Many can’t live this life, but there are many who can live this life but are afraid to make the move.

@derrick8224 Жыл бұрын

Great story. Thanks for sharing. Hello from Canada 🇨🇦

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks Derrick!

@garybarnhart7529 Жыл бұрын

Been there many times years ago, beautiful place and beautiful people. Enjoyed every trip.All the best to you.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

It really is! Glad you enjoyed it.

@skygirlmarcia3651 Жыл бұрын

Great video Michael! Nice to see you the other day.

@kathleenjones8466 Жыл бұрын

Excellent video- thanks for sharing

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it, Kathleen

@TheTwoTravelersInMexico Жыл бұрын

Nice interview. Micheal is a great ambassador for SMA. -Marc

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

How long are you in SMA?

@TheTwoTravelersInMexico Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico We leave in the morning. Headed back to SLP. -Marc

@BearInThePhillipines Жыл бұрын

THANK YOU....I needed this

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Happy to share - Michael is a great guy!

@martbright Жыл бұрын

I love San Miguel! People are so friendly and it’s colorful and so beautiful.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

I totally agree!

@gehobanilopez4206 Жыл бұрын

Eso sí, muy bonito, pero solo el centro histórico, no te vayas a las orillas de la ciudad, no es seguro y es polvoriento.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@@gehobanilopez4206 Si. Gracias por tu comentario.

@akbound Жыл бұрын

Hi we have had a house here since 2011 and have built two others since then. We got into ballroom dancing here in SMA and the second house the lower floor was suppose to be a nice shop for me to play in but it turned into the ballroom with a two bedroom apt above so I had to build the third place so I could have my shop. Michael is right you can get along with just english but you will have a lot more fun if you put forth the effort to learn a little Espanol. I work at it every day for a half hour or so and I have many good friends that are natives here. I ride motorcycles with a group of Mexicans and I am the only gringo in the group. Most of them are working guys and do not speak english but they put up with me anyway. I love the Mexican culture as they are Family, Family and Family. We have been invited to parties and events where we are just about the only gringos there. I just paid my property taxes. The house we had in Oregon sold for 1.2 mil the one we have in centro is worth about the same. Taxes in Oregon were 23K here we paid $700 USD or 13,000 pesos. The smaller house I just finished taxes were $174.00. You can go out and have a couple glasses of wine with your dinner in a nice place and it will cost about $35 dollars for two maybe 45 depending on what you have. The weather, food, living and the people here are great. We love it. But don't come as there are enough gringos here as it is.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. This is great information for folks looking to move south! Do you know Gary Bennet? He's also involved in the ballroom dance scene in SMA: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/lbCHibCGuZ7Xpqs.html

@kisary4962 Жыл бұрын

You come off as boasting about your 1 million dollar house in Oregon. You had to throw that in, do you bring that up in all your conversations?

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@kisary4962 I’m glad he added the price as it helps to understand the difference in property tax. I don’t know where his house was in Oregon, but in Bend or Portland that’s not that expensive of a house. Oregon is starting to experience west coast prices…

@kisary4962 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico And it doesn't come off to you as boasting about how much his house was worth. You must fit right in there with all the Expats bragging about how much their house in the U.S. was sold for and how much they paid for their house in San Miguel. Doesn't that get old after awhile? And then he says other people like him shouldn't do what he did and move there. What a complete Douchebag. I avoid Expats like him like the plague when I'm there in San Miguel.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@@kisary4962 nope - it doesn’t come off as bragging. He talks about the difference in taxes paid for two similarly priced houses. That’s great info if you own a house in one country and are looking to move to another. But if it landed as bragging to you then it landed as bragging to you. It landed as good info yo me.

@davebaker489 Жыл бұрын

What a "Debbie Downer" (NOT) He seems truly passionate about his new life ... and good for him ... out of Lemons he made Margaritas and Coffee. 👍👍👍🐈🐕‍🦺 P n D

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Hah! That's a great way to think about it. He really is a happy guy (and he curated a comic book museum!)

@NinaNina-ry8fn Жыл бұрын

Thank you dor sharing rhis beautiful video

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@mellayton1946 Жыл бұрын

Livin' large, Mike! Now you are a KZfaq Star! Congrats.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

He's a star so many other places - now KZfaq too!

@sharonbice4119 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for this interview. I know now that I have to come to San Miguel De Allende! So many other places in MX I want to go but this is going onto the bucket list too!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 7 ай бұрын

Definitely! I wanna go back - plus there are many nearby places to explore.

@aimelopez6946 Жыл бұрын

What a lovely and interesting guy!, he must be very fun to hang on!! San Miguel is Beautiful!!!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

We had a great time that afternoon filming this!

@josepelayo2827 Жыл бұрын

Thats really nice

@AlexHop1 Жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

You're welcome!

@MrGhostshadow10 Жыл бұрын

soy mexicano viviendo en estados unidos y evisto muchos videos de estado unidenses viviendo en mexico y no puedo comentar en todos los videos, pero en este video puedo decir que me alegra mucho que estas personas tengan una vida en mi pais y sean felices...algun dia regresare a mi pais y estare muy agradecio con estados unidos que me dio la oportunidad de estar aqui...

@hivolco151 Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for sharing these stories! Very Happy New Year to you and your lovely wife!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thank you and Feliz Año!

@rcardoosuna6491 Жыл бұрын

The cat looks like a very nice person.

@BetsyGutting Жыл бұрын

Michael has a beautiful spirit -- so uplifting! His home is gorgeous! I'm living in Vallarta and the prices for that quality and space are much higher. I'm curious if San Miguel is still fairly reasonable for housing? A friend visited and she thought overall it was pricier (shops, restaurants, etc.) than Vallarta?

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@BetsyGuttin Michael is definitely getting a "above average" deal for San Miguel. And it is on the pricier side when you look at Mexico as a whole. I haven't really compared prices in PV vs SMA, but to me it felt like SMA was less expensive.

@JakeRichardsong 3 ай бұрын

He's good ar adapting and going with the flow.

@Omeomy Жыл бұрын

Love this interview, love his energy (caffeine!😄) and enthusiasm! 🙏 thanks

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Me too! Thanks for watching

@Dividendflywheel 7 ай бұрын

His energy motivation is contagious.

@andrewthacker114 Жыл бұрын

Very interesting clip. Good story. Mexico City not too far away.

@mariamar2114 Жыл бұрын

A 45.minitos del aeropuerto de Guanajuato a México.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Yes - and there are frequent (very nice) buses. I'll post a video about my ride soon.

@davidibarrasr3450 Жыл бұрын

Can't wait to make it out to sma. Spent years in morelia but looking forward to sma

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Morelia is where the butterflies are, right? I've not been yet, but it's on my list. SMA is a wonderful town.

@margaritayavila7455 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Avoid Michoacan please

@RomelAlibudbud Жыл бұрын

Excellent episode. Inspiring and motivating. Thanks.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@whitneywho Жыл бұрын

I’ll be in SMA in May-June! I’d love to visit this coffee shop and meet The Man Who Lives On The Couch! 😄

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Sadly, I couldn’t even find the coffee shop on a map or Google Earth. But if you take Michaels photography coarse you could probably convince him to share the location.

@elchapojr6219 Жыл бұрын

So many Americans are retiring in Mexico 🇲🇽 San Miguel especially

@mariamar2114 Жыл бұрын

No los espantes... Chapo!!!

@elchapojr6219 Жыл бұрын

@@mariamar2114 va ser la invasión de gringos ni de aquí ni de aya

@dariomendoza191 Ай бұрын

the world nowadays lts like learning to livewith with you Step daughters ,sons its a Brave newworld!! greetings from Usa georgia!!

@goingwalkaboutnow Жыл бұрын

It’s so funny, we lived in La Paz last year, that’s how I started watching your videos. We are in SMA now too, kismet? Very good interview. We’ll be traveling further south, it will be more then coincidence if we’re in the same place same time again😅. I’ve been doing a vlog , Going Walkabout, different focus from yours however same intent of trying to help folks transition in retirement.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Enjoy mainland Mexico. I wish I was coming back to the mainland soon, but I don't have plans. Next trip will probably be Mazatlan by ferry or flying to Guadalajara. I just subscribed to your channel.

@goingwalkaboutnow Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico we will be coming back to La Paz , most likely next year, so far it’s our favorite Mexican city 🤓

@zonanorte6563 Жыл бұрын

Great!!!!!!!!!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@Katy32344 Жыл бұрын

God was looking out for you.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Ummm... OK

@barbarahallowell2613 10 күн бұрын

I seriously just love this house 😊❤😊

@Alainabelle Жыл бұрын

It was a nice little town.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Definitely!

@jodiekohut9443 3 ай бұрын

I’m thinking of moving there .I’m Canadian and things are not good here . My only concern is getting my 3 cats there because I made a commitment to them to care for them forever .Thanks for you video, it was very entertaining

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 3 ай бұрын

You can legally bring in 2 pets per person. If you drive across the border, they don’t really care. Flying is probably more regulated.

@josephsmith961 Жыл бұрын

It's a beautiful place, but unfortunately only for very wealthy people. You can find reasonable places in Queretaro, but now with the exchange rates so low, it's no longer budget friendly there either.

@reflectionsinthebible3579 Жыл бұрын

Thanks to biden and pelousy and the commies for crashing the economy.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@reflectionsinthebible3579 and that whole war trying to stop the spread of communism. I thought the right didn't like communism. That seems to have changed when Donald became bros with Putin. At least Biden still cares about protecting Democracies.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@josephsmith961 Micheal is paying just $600 per month, which isn't too bad. But I know what you are saying, SMA is much pricier than QRO. And in my short time in these places, I preferred QRO...

@josephsmith961 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Sic him bro!

@josephsmith961 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico I moved from Colorado where we were living at 6700 feet and breathing was tough. QRO was up there in altitude too, and I have COPD, so Merida was a better choice for me. It's hotter than 2 rats humping in a wool sock in the summer, but I can still breath without any inhalers. Notice the Trumper deleted his comment hahaha!

@NomadicRVLiving Жыл бұрын

I will be there next month after QRO and looking forward to checking out SMA. Currently in GDL and I like it, but will see if QRO or SMA is a better fit.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

I've not yet been to GDL but SMA and QRO are amazing. In my short time there, I think I preferred QRO. Have fun!

@CarlosMartinez-kx3ny Жыл бұрын

Very welcome to QRO, saludos!

@odapty Жыл бұрын

Me too I love gdl and going to see qro and oxhaca

@miriambanda7036 Жыл бұрын

Very beautiful 😍

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thank you! Cheers!

@mysticgold1947 Жыл бұрын

Enjoy IT CONGRATULATION this is one of the place better... in 🇲🇽 Mexico. SAN MIGUEL ALLENDE IS GORGEOUS PEACEFUL AND VERY CULTURAL...ITS A DREAM PKACE MEXICAN PEOPLE ARE DOWN TO EARTH PEOPLE AND VERY FRIENDLY 🇲🇽 😀 🎊 CONGRATULATION 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

It really is!

@catirerubio Жыл бұрын

Have a friend who moved there 3 years ago. Rents keep going up, foreigners coming in causing prices of everything to jump. Serious medical care hard to come by, he must return to the US for higher end medical care. The weather is great, people nice but one is still a foreigner and will never be accepted as any thing else.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. Is he returning to the US because the care isn’t available or because his insurance won’t cover Mexico? Some people on Medicare will use local medical system for most things, but return to the US for expensive things. But many younger folks without US insurance get amazing care here (at least in the bigger cities.)

@amyexner Жыл бұрын

Omg…that’s what I’m looking for. Planing to move to Mexico this year.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

have fun!

@alexfranco3879 Жыл бұрын

Welcome

@clareomarfran 11 ай бұрын

True that about being busier in retirement here than working full time in the states. I've also been in SMA for 3 years. In my experience, few store clerks (outside Centro), tradespeople, cabbies, or vendors speak English. Everyone is experienced with gringos, though, so doing business is no problem, and locals are welcoming whether you can converse with them or not.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 11 ай бұрын

So true! And even if folks don’t not speak Spanish, if they are used to speaking to gringos, they know to slow down and use simple language.

@ShauninParadise Жыл бұрын

Being busy is good, he knows what’s up! What an interesting interview ❤

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks Shaun! I agree -idle minds... something something something...

@davidtice4972 Жыл бұрын

In the center of town they have el garden or plaza where people meet and talk.

@sherifuntastic 9 ай бұрын

Loved this...I am so ready to do my Digital Nomad time there.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 9 ай бұрын

You can do it!

@sherifuntastic 9 ай бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico It doesn't hurt that I am a fluent Spanish speaker.

@guadalupetoledo9966 Жыл бұрын

I’m going soon to San Cristóbal de las casas, Chiapas , is beautiful too!!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

There are so many beautiful towns in Mexico! I want to explore them all. Enjoy Chiapas!

@robertolucero1191 Жыл бұрын

San Miguel Allende a magic town

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Definitely a magic town, but not technically a Pueblo Magico. They had to remove that designation to get a different international designation...

@ibelieveinjesuschrist8911 Жыл бұрын

he still has the same shirt on from the pic in his dream job!! lol yes, keep your clothes looking good and keep wearing them and having a great time in your life

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Hah! Good catch. Good clothing can last a long time ;-)

@silviacastillo4733 Жыл бұрын

Welcome to Mexico 🇲🇽 you know my house is your house!!!👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🤗

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thank you Silvia!

@ramirogonzalez5549 3 ай бұрын

Alguien que pueda traducir mi comentario ? Los medios de comunicacion nacionales e internacionales acusan a Mexico como un pais muy inseguro por la cantidad de asesinatos que pasan aqui ¡ pueden ser datos correctos , pero lo que que tenemos que aclarar es que el 99% estan relacionados con el narcotrafico , si tu no consumes , compras o vendes drogas ilegales , solo recibiras en Mexico amabilidad y respeto ¡ Recordemos que colindamos con el pais mas rico y adicto del mundo ¡ Mientras no entres en ese ambiente no tendras ningun problema.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 3 ай бұрын

Gran comentario! Translated: The national and international media accuse Mexico as a very unsafe country due to the number of murders that happen here! These may be correct data, but what we have to clarify is that 99% are related to drug trafficking. If you don't consume, buy or sell illegal drugs, you will only receive kindness and respect in Mexico! Let's remember that we border the richest and most addicted country in the world! As long as you don't enter that environment you won't have any problems.

@pintatedecolores71 Жыл бұрын

greeeen goooo,

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Where?

@angelherrera8077 Жыл бұрын

Mexico welcome s any race in peace and love.congratulations to bro

@oitnotnA Жыл бұрын

No se puede decir lo mismo sobre Estados Unidos, lamentablemente.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Exactamente

@Kiwiwanderer 10 ай бұрын

I’m really enjoying your channel. I live in New Zealand 🇳🇿 and Australian and NZers tend to retire to south East Asia., however I don’t believe I could live there long term. I’m attracted to Mexico or Europe - eg Portugal, Croatia or Greece. Have you met any retired kiwis or Australians in Mexico? One of the attractions for me in Mexico is the American retirees …interesting humans wanting a peaceful happy retirement ! I don’t believe Australians and New Zealanders have worked out what a good retirement is yet.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 10 ай бұрын

Aussies seem to love a good life before retiring. Especially when traveling! I don’t know of any Kiwis or Aussies in La Paz. Mostly Canadians and US-ians :-)

@palomamorales3781 Жыл бұрын

Thank your for giving Mexico the credit and history lesson that Mexico and the USA have work together and have major history together ❤

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Well said!

@MexicoAdventurer 11 ай бұрын

Yep, including my great great great great uncle David Crockett getting killed at the Alamo...

@dianezaidlicz5334 Жыл бұрын

Michael…. I’m just back home in snowy cold New England after a full month in SanMiguel…. I saw you class and wanted to get to it… But ran out of time! I did go to the monarch butterfly’s!!! I’d love to have you as a resource… My gfriends and I want to get to SanMiguel more frequently!!! We’ve stayed near the Centro and this time near Fabrica….. Can you reach out for contact??? You are so resourceful and inspiring…. Diane Z

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

How were the monarchs? I've wanted to see them, but I heard that this year wasn't the best time because of safety in the area (since Chapo's son was arrested.) You can reach out the Michael via his website: experiencesma.com/michael-solof-photography

@Dina52328 19 күн бұрын

I don’t want to be a party pooper but just curious to know something I read in a news article about San Miguel de Allende. Please let me know your opinion. The article mentioned that San Miguel has become so gentrified by the foreigners and ex-pats that the local residents can’t even afford to live there any more. The article mentioned that (mostly) Americans are selling their expensive homes on the west and east coast and paying top dollars for the houses there and making them their own. It went on to say that homes where local people used to live in are bought, then sold by the foreigners at prices that only other foreigners can pay. Locals have no option but to live on the outskirts of San Miguel or go somewhere else. This reminds me exactly of what happened in Santa Fe, New Mexico in the 1940’s. However, Santa Fe was not taken over by foreigners but by the art community relocating from other states. The famous American painter Georgia O’Keeffe made Santa Fe her home in 1949; many more artists soon followed. The locals, mostly Pueblo Indians, could not afford to live in their homes anymore due to the high rents and/or property taxes and now live in small communities outside of New Mexico.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 19 күн бұрын

Gentrification and displacement is an issue in San Miguel. Most of the property owners are still Mexican and benefit significantly from charging higher rent or selling to foreigners. However, any locals who rent instead of own are left behind in this change. I’ve been trying to find answers. And I’ll do a video as soon as I can. SMA is also attractive to wealthy Mexicans. Even in a place like SMA, foreigners are still a small part of the population.

@michaelteder Жыл бұрын

i have to tell you that i had friends who lived in a house in this complex a year ago, and i visited them for a week and had the greatest time in SMA, i'm happy to see you are enjoying it as much as i did!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Michael lives in a great place! I'm jealous.

@frank-gf5vh Жыл бұрын

You can’t have enough coffee and pets in my book.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Agreed!

@frankmontez6853 11 ай бұрын

The temps there are similar to San Juan De Los Lagos Jalisco . I think in that they're cool highs in the 70s or barely around 80 F degrees . Very pleasant two weeks in July 2008 there . I come from San Antonio Tx and it’s scorching blistering HOT dsys here . In San juan De Los Lagos it rained every day keeping temps down . I carried an umbrella with me everywhere I went . I went to mass at basilica there and spent the days at the different restaurants and markets . At nights spent them at the fountain in front of the Basilica I loved it

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 10 ай бұрын

That sounds wonderful Frank. thanks for sharing!

@ezingles698 Жыл бұрын

Why did you not stay longer in MDE? Is your cost of living similuar? Expats in MDE? Same as San Miguel? Thanks

@leongolden7549 Жыл бұрын

great story, i love Mexico , considering moving part time, how is the safety their

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Most places is Mexico are much much safer than you'd think. I did a video about it here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/lcqji9yczLnPZ5c.html

@manciniangela3751 Жыл бұрын

i want to move there now.

@janetpattison8474 Жыл бұрын

So does everyone else. But, I read that Organized crime has had a big effect on the area.

@soledadmartinez6878 Жыл бұрын

Beautiful place I was there last summer so clean and peaceful.

@ismaelgonzalez281 Жыл бұрын

Really? I’m from México CDMX . I don’t believe you like our country since in the USA you have a lot of things,, more than in México

@kirbyelsereno Жыл бұрын

Great interview but I have lived here for three years and I rarely find locals that speak english. Perfect for me to practice my spanish. Maybe in the high end restaurants he said he goes to, yes a few servers will speak english. In my neighborhood some of the neighbors speak english which is actually helpful to learn conversation spanish. Thought I would share my experience. :)

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. In my time in SMA I also found lots of locals speaking English - at least in the downtown core. Out near the bus station not so much. But it’s great talking to bi-lingual people because they can understand my Spanish! 😃

@axt333 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico what do you expect guys???? You are in a Spanish-speaking country. Learn the language.

@reflectionsinthebible3579 Жыл бұрын

Well this is an add so ofcourse they’re going to lie. However, it sure sounded believable.

@14sasst Жыл бұрын

I have resisted San Miguel because I felt there were going to be too many Americans and Canadians. I would love to hear there are lots of locals speaking Spanish.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@@14sasst If you choose to live farther out from the center of town, English will be much less common.

@juliogonzalez4764 Жыл бұрын

Love your videos. Just subscribed. Thinking about early retirement. I've never been to Mexico but am considering San Miguel, Huatulco, or Playa del Carmen.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Mexico is worth considering- and those are three great locations (2 of them hot in the summer.) thanks for subscribing!

@lupeguerrero8739 Жыл бұрын

👍👍👍🇲🇽🇲🇽🇲🇽👋👋👋

@mariorodriguez2416 7 ай бұрын

I AM living in Mexico retired in acambaro Guanajuato and Who'd love to move to San Miguel.. bilingual can teach Spanish and English can really fit in I am a diesel ⛽ engineer Who'd love to meet a great people..

@AlmostRetiredinMexico 7 ай бұрын

There are lots of folks in San Miguel to meet. And a number of organizations to help connect expats. Check it out!

@pacopeso8474 Жыл бұрын

I live down the road in Queretaro. Been in Mexico for ten years married to a Latina. I went bankrupt after my divorce in 2012. Found a new life here. Great people I ain't leaving.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Congrats on finding your perfect spot. I liked QRO more than SMA, but I didn’t really explore either.

@pacopeso8474 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Turns out QRO is relatively safe from cartels for now. The traffic is crazy. Life is good here in paradise for us retired folks

@BearInThePhillipines Жыл бұрын

Thank you for inspiration report Would you suggest fly down first check it out? Can I find a petite girlfriend even if yo hablar pequito espanol?

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@@BearInThePhillipines Most folks suggest renting an apartment somewhere before buying. But we bought (in La Paz) during our first visit. You never know. You wouldn't be the first white guy to find a girlfriend in Mexico - even without speaking Spanish.

@aliciafigueroa3445 Жыл бұрын

@@BearInThePhillipines 😂😂😂

@tidy Жыл бұрын

San Miguel looks beautiful!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

It really is!

@allthingsnu4673 Жыл бұрын

This is exciting. I've seen a few videos about the program in Italy that let's you buy old houses cheap. San Miquel is more beautiful than the areas I've seen in Italy, IMO, and much closer for me to get to as I live in Texas. Thanks for the video!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

I'm super curious about those programs in Italy, but Mexico is far more convenient - especially if you're from Texas!

@Tbonner0818 Жыл бұрын

Heyyy.. aren’t you the guy from LaPaz? I’d recognize that hat anywhere. Cheers!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Yup - Kat and I live 6 months a year in La Paz. But I travel around Mexico for a few weeks each summer and shoot interviews.

@mwj5368 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the very nice first hand experience of living in Mexico! I liked and subscribed. Can you get your monthly Social Security money and live there? If so, is there any technical hurdles one must do to receive your SS while not living in the US?

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Great questions. Yes, you can get your SS retirement money abroad (SS disability money is a bit different.) You need to file a form every couple years to confirm you're still alive, etc. I'm hoping to do a video specifically about SS retirement abroad.

@mwj5368 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico What if I'm quasi-nomadic and live in one country or city for a while (maybe at times longer than with a tourist visa) then move on? I was disability for a few years but when I turned 65 they sent a letter saying I was no longer so. I found out nothing would change and it didn't and another Senior told me I'm some kind of slightly different status than regular SS. I might not ever return to the US but not sure depending how my going "out of my comfort zone" goes and Medicare won't I'm told cover me abroad. Is that right?

@davidtice4972 Жыл бұрын

San Miguel Allende has several excellent Spanish learning schools that I went to. They have dance classes around town. They have a lot of cultural events. Carnival parades where they dance in customs. Something like a Brazilian Carnival.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing David. It sounds like you left SMA. Can you share why?

@davidtice4972 Жыл бұрын

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico My school where I was teaching got a million dollar grant and they gave me a scholarship to go to school in San Miguel. When my schooling was over I came back to California to work. I have been back to San Miguel one time and several times to Salvatierra, Guanajuato and Querétaro.

@graciediaz5343 5 ай бұрын

I'm jealous. How old are you ? Let's be friends, I also love, love coffee. I'm Mexican American born in Los Angeles but do know many places in Mexico. Also have interest in living in Mexico but also have not decided where yet. You have a great life and values. Will start following your website. Adios for now. Gracie D.

@ipclifton1 Жыл бұрын

OMG $700 for that gorgeous, heavenly house? Please find me one like that in LaPaz please

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Me too!

@SEVENTHREEANDNINE 3 ай бұрын

There is no way that that place would be $700 a month now unless it’s much further outside of San Miguel driving or over a 30 minute walk to central. I’ve looked at Real Estate there in a year. I’m not sure it’s gonna be that much but places up around for two grand a month, Canadian four, add to bedroom and they’re hard to find!

@oAgL214 Жыл бұрын

Sometimes good things happen that appear bad at first. This is an example.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

So true!

@Rhaspun Жыл бұрын

Things lined up perfectly for him.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@@Rhaspun So true!

@slyslaughter5115 6 ай бұрын

I loved my several weeks in San Miguel. I wanted to stay and say adios to the States, which by comparison, now strike me as lonesome and sterile. I loved the people, the colors, the food. I was very happy. I felt like I belonged there. It inspired me to write new songs. It's a little touristy but not as bad as, say, Venice. I'd live there if I could. I figure there's a decade left before the global technocrats ruin Mexico, and I'd love to enjoy those in San Miguel.

@MannyGonzalezReyna Жыл бұрын

Amazing video, thanks for sharing, Im trying to convince my wife to move to Coatepec, Veracruz State, MX.

@MannyGonzalezReyna Жыл бұрын

We live in Arizona

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

I haven't been there, but the photos online look gorgeous! Does your wife like horses? kzfaq.info/get/bejne/eLyDocqcq8nWqqc.html

@reflectionsinthebible3579 Жыл бұрын

Don’t move to Veracruz. They kill journalists there.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

@@reflectionsinthebible3579 Well... as long as you're not a journalist, right?

@ahoo5753 Жыл бұрын

Good stay there .you should,South America is running out the riffraff

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Is Mexico in South America?

@rafaelramos1485 Жыл бұрын

Dear Michael beautiful video this. I am a retired person from Puerto Rico and will like to visit San Miguel de Allende to know the town and live for a while. I also will like to know others states at Mexico ; did you know about a travel guide that can help me move at the best places of Mexico. Does I can phone you at a number. Thanks for your help cordially yours Rafael 🙏🌞🙏

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

You can reach Michael thru his website: experiencesma.com/michael-solof-photography Two travel guide options: www.mexicoforliving.com/ and mexicorelocationguide.com

@OSCARHERNANDEZ-un5iy Жыл бұрын

I got brand new condos for sale in tulum 🇲🇽 the grand rivera Maya will have A brand new passenger train n rail. plus new airport being built... I'm at kw. enjoy mexico!

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

Thanks

@enriquetachipana6066 Жыл бұрын

I love SMA but lately I heard rents are higher than before but 700 it's not bad but I guess it's a special deal 😉. Wonder if I can get a place similar if you know a landlord or trustworthy agent I will appreciate it.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

I think Michael was extra lucky. Most people need to live in a city to be able to connect with people and walk the streets to find good deals. It seems when agents are involved, the places are usually more expensive. So I would suggest renting an Airbnb for a month and search around for a long term place while you are in SMA.

@anetajohnson8446 Жыл бұрын

Very interesting, i dont know if you did not want to mention it, but whats your average cost a year to live there, Converting the dollar to M exican cirrency? Would it be more expensive to live by the Ocean?

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

I don’t think president fes change inland to Oceanside. La Paz is on the ocean and much cheaper than Cabo 2 hours away. I’m not good at tracking spending. Sorry!

@janetpattison8474 Жыл бұрын

I’ve heard the cost of living is high in San Miguel. It’s high in Florida as well. I have free tickets, so it’s time to check it out. Family lived in the area years ago. Also heard that the “mob” has moved in to San Miguel. Hope it’s not true.

@AlmostRetiredinMexico Жыл бұрын

San Miguel is definitely more expensive than nearby parts of Mexico. I'm not sure about the cartels. I know they are powerful in this state, but they typically steer clear of tourist areas. That said, I've heard rumors of extortion of store owners in the recent past.

@analauragutierrez7697 Жыл бұрын

Mejor no vengan porque siempre estan con su tema de seguridad de verdad no vengan