Send us a text Michele Kinnon shares her inspiring journey of integrating into the Riviera Maya community through active participation in service initiatives. The conversation highlights the importance of getting involved, adapting to a new culture, and how community efforts can create positive change. Websites referred to in the episode: https://playaseasiderotary.org/ https://www.gofundme.com/f/tiny-hearts-big-needs-saving-newborns-in-playa-del-carmen https://www.facebook.com/share/g/...

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it would be like to leave a bustling corporate career and find peace in a new land? Meet Erika Weier, an inspiring American expat who traded the hectic life of Chicago's retail management for the tranquil beauty of Tulum, Mexico. In our latest episode, Erika shares her journey of embracing a slower, more meaningful lifestyle, deeply rooted in her Mexican American heritage. She talks about the unexpected joys and challenges of her new life, including ...

Send us a text What happens when the unthinkable occurs, and you're far from home? Imagine being in a foreign country and losing your spouse or partner unexpectedly. In this episode, we sit down with a compassionate representative from the Playa del Carmen consulate, who walks us through the labyrinth of steps that follow such a devastating event. From navigating local laws and contacting the next of kin to selecting a funeral home and deciding between repatriation, burial, or cremation—every...

Send us a text Ever wondered how American expats and immigrants can successfully vote from abroad? This episode's guest—an experienced expat voter—takes us through the essential steps and resources available, like the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP). Learn how to navigate the labyrinth of state-specific rules for absentee voting, and get insider tips on ensuring your ballot makes it back to the U.S. on time. From emailing your vote (where allowed) to using consular services for maili...

Send us a text What would you do if you lost your passport in a foreign country? Today's episode is geared towards U.S. citizens and residents who might find themselves without their essential travel documents while in Mexico. From the intricacies of replacing a passport if you're a resident, to the steps needed to obtain an emergency passport for urgent travel, we've got you covered. We break down the process of making appointments at consulates, the expected timelines, and also shed light o...

Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to assist American expats and travelers in a foreign land? Today, we offer you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at US consular services through the eyes of Heather Andersen Cayer, a dedicated US consular agent based in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Heather shares her journey from working in tourism and bartending to becoming a pivotal figure in consular services since 2016. Her stories reveal the often overlooked yet critical role these agencies play,...

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it really takes to secure residency in Mexico? Join us for an exclusive interview with Adriana Vela, an experienced immigration specialist based in Playa del Carmen, who shares her invaluable insights into the residency process. From her personal journey moving from Argentina to Mexico to the nuances of temporary and permanent residency options, Adriana breaks down the essential steps you need to take, including why it's crucial to begin your applica...

Send us a text Imagine stumbling upon a new life in the sun-drenched Riviera Maya, complete with vibrant music, transformative art, and the thrill of underwater exploration. That's precisely the journey Canadian-born Natalie Novak Perez took, and in this episode, she takes us through the twists and turns of her incredible expat experience. From serendipity in love to becoming a local icon through her melodic and artistic prowess, Natalie's story is as colorful and inviting as the murals she's...

Send us a text Life abroad comes with its unique set of challenges, a truth I've come to know intimately since moving to Mexico. From the sun-soaked beaches to the bustling street markets, this vibrant country offers a wealth of experiences, but adapting hasn't been without its struggles. Through candid conversations with Dr. Kitzia Ruiz Navarro, a psychiatrist from Playa del Carmen, we shine a light on the mental health hurdles many expats encounter, including my own battle with insomnia and...

Send us a text Discover the unexpected charm of pickleball and how it's capturing hearts in Mexico, as we join Chris and Erica for a sun-soaked conversation filled with laughter and the clink of paddles. Chris's recent victory is just the beginning; we unveil the vibrant community that's sprung up around this sport, complete with donations and new clubs. Our dynamic discussion uncovers how social media helps newcomers find a local court and the unique joys of fostering connections through t...

Send us a text Imagine swapping the intensity of military and IT consulting for the serene beaches of the Riviera Maya. That's exactly what our guest, Jose Galarza, did, and in this heartfelt chat, he unveils the tapestry of his life's new chapter. From embracing the local culture to discovering the joys of scuba diving, Jose's transition to expat life is a trove of insight for anyone dreaming of retirement abroad. He candidly shares both the hurdles and triumphs of adapting to a new communit...

Send us a text Trading a familiar homeland for the allure of an expat life often reads like a dream, until reality's fine print emerges in bold. Embrace the candid tales from our Canadian friends, Walter and Shawnee, as they unveil the gritty and the gratifying aspects of building a home in Mexico's Riviera Maya. Amidst tales of transitioning from hobbyist gardeners to Expat life, this week's episode chronicles the true essence of building not just a house, but a home in a land woven with cul...

Send us a text Ever found yourself fumbling with foreign currency or second-guessing the right amount to tip while on vacation? Say goodbye to those awkward tipping moments in Mexico as we navigate you through the customs and conventions of expressing gratitude through gratuities. From the bustling eateries of Mexico City to the serene resorts of Riviera Maya, our latest episode ensures that you're always on point with your pesos, whether you're rewarding your server, hotel staff, or tour gui...

Send us a text Embark on an intimate exploration of life beyond borders with our friend Scott who traded Seattle's drizzle for Riviera Maya's dazzle. Scott, a beacon of resilience with his physical disability, shares the unexpected health benefits of Mexico's warm embrace and the cultural tapestry that awaited them. We delve into the nuances of expatriate life, from adapting to Mexico's economic shifts to facing the idiosyncrasies of local bureaucracy with a blend of patience and humor. ...

Send us a text Welcome to our latest chat where we swap stories about life as expats in sunny Mexico. The four producers of Expats Like Us reminisce about our hurricane 'welcome party', and play another round of "Que Padre, Que Malo" to weigh the cool against the not-so-cool aspects of our tropical adventure. Strap in for a cultural roller coaster as we compare the fast lanes of our past to the leisurely strolls of Mexican life. Here, convenience foods bow to the flavors of home-cooked meals...

Send us a text Ever wondered what it's like to trade the familiar comforts of home for a life rich with new culture and simpler pleasures? That's exactly what we, Bob and Sherrie Bosse, alongside Chris and Erica Kovalsky, unpack in a heart-to-heart about our expat adventures in Mexico. From the joy of navigating online shopping to the reality of property taxes, we've got an array of personal stories. Our game of "Que Padre, Que Malo" will have you chuckling and nodding along as we categorize ...

Send us a text When Nolan Clark swapped the Canadian frost for Mexico's sun-soaked Riviera Maya, he didn't just find warmer weather; he discovered a whole new way of life. Now, as a seasoned real estate broker and developer, Nolan joins us to share the inside scoop on thriving as an expat and navigating the property market. We also learn about Nolan's career pivot, revealing how a passion for music and frequent conversations with fans led him to become both a popular local entertainer and a t...

Send us a text Have you ever fantasized about swapping your daily grind for the tranquility of a tropical locale? Kelly Maher did just that, and in our latest episode, she shares her transformative journey from a high-pressure media sales career in Atlanta to the peaceful rhythm of life in Akumal, Mexico. Her story isn't just about early retirement but finding a new community and redefining what it means to be active and engaged during the best years of your life. The pandemic was a turning ...

Send us a text Embark on an enlightening adventure with Bob Bosse and special guest Ed Risling, and discover the secrets to a seamless transition into expat life. Together, we delve into the psychological nuances of uprooting and settling into the vibrant communities of Mexico, unraveling the tapestry of cultural adaptation with an expert's eye. Ed, an accomplished clinical psychotherapist and author, brings a wealth of knowledge on the importance of attitude and curiosity for couples ready t...

Send us a text Join my wife Sherrie and I for a discussion of downsizing our possessions in preparation for our move from Vermillion, South Dakota to Akumal Mexico in July of 2021. We are incredibly thankful for engagement and stories from our listeners, who have found their own sense of 'home' across the globe. Stay tuned as we continue to share the wisdom and wanderlust of those who've charted their unique international courses. We'd love to hear your comments and questions. Email th...