Fred_C
American looking for information about Ecuador
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American
Lives in San Miguel de Allende
Registration: 15 December 2011
6 month Tourist Visas - Issues involved by singledd
Hello, I will be moving to Mexico... the Tulum area, soon. Initially, I will only have a Tourist Visa. I imagine that there are many people who have spent more than 6 months in Mexico, without getting anything more then the Tourist Visa. I am ...
When I said 6 months or so I meant less, Some go every quarter. Some go 3 times a year. Some go every 180 days. I will re-phrase my Banking comment. Most Mexican Banks will not open an account on a tourist Visa. Thank you for pointing out the ... Read More
6 month Tourist Visas - Issues involved by singledd
Hello, I will be moving to Mexico... the Tulum area, soon. Initially, I will only have a Tourist Visa. I imagine that there are many people who have spent more than 6 months in Mexico, without getting anything more then the Tourist Visa. I am ...
I know of several people that live in Mexico and have for years on Tourist Visas. They just make a trip out of Mexico every 6 months or so. You cannot open a Mexico bank account on a Tourist Visa, but I have been many places here and US ATM cards ... Read More
New members of Mexico forum, introduce yourself here 聳 4th quarter of 2015 by Julien
Newbie on Mexico forum? Don聮t know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your expat projects ...
You can contact Bajiago in SMA. They run shuttles to and from Leon at all hours. $29 USD I believe.It is about an hour and a half drive. Welcome, and I hope you enjoy our town. Read More
Moving to SMA by villagemedrim555
Hello everybody, My name is Nour, I am currently living in Laguna Beach, CA. I am a chef/owner of a small gourmet restaurant, and trained Architect-Interior designer. at the age of 57 while I still have a lot of energy to enjoy the golden years of ...
Sorry, I just saw this. No class now till Monday. The Biblioteca is on Insurgentes at the corner of Reloj. Fromm the Main Church you walk down Reloj (facing away from the church it is to the right side of the Jardin) It is 3 blocks (counting the ... Read More
Moving to SMA by villagemedrim555
Hello everybody, My name is Nour, I am currently living in Laguna Beach, CA. I am a chef/owner of a small gourmet restaurant, and trained Architect-Interior designer. at the age of 57 while I still have a lot of energy to enjoy the golden years of ...
Just paper and pen (papel y boligrofo) I use a small notebook to write down words to look at again when I return home. The class is very easy going and I look forward to meeting you. Read More
Moving to SMA by villagemedrim555
Hello everybody, My name is Nour, I am currently living in Laguna Beach, CA. I am a chef/owner of a small gourmet restaurant, and trained Architect-Interior designer. at the age of 57 while I still have a lot of energy to enjoy the golden years of ...
You may want to check out the class I am now in. Mom, Wed, and Friday. From Noon to 1pm. It is free and set up for beginners and intermediate English speakers. The teacher is Terri Vega and it is held at the Biblioteca. Ask anyone for directions it ... Read More
Where to buy basic TV (about 32") and a Blu-Ray player in SMA?
There are several, but as you likely would want to Cab it to your destination you should look a little farther out. Retail estate space near the Jardin is expensive, and that translates into anything you buy there. I think I would look at the Bodega ... Read More
Moving to SMA by villagemedrim555
Hello everybody, My name is Nour, I am currently living in Laguna Beach, CA. I am a chef/owner of a small gourmet restaurant, and trained Architect-Interior designer. at the age of 57 while I still have a lot of energy to enjoy the golden years of ...
Looking forward to it. BTW fresh juice (all kinds) are readily available in SMA. el pepino (cucumber) and la zanahoria (carrot) juice is very common in restaurants until you get settled in and find that blender.. Read More
What do you like the most in Mexico? by Christine
Hi, Living abroad, expats discover and enjoy a new environment. What do you like the most in Mexico? What seduced you when settling and living here? Share with us your favorite part of living in Mexico and the reason why you enjoy your ...
All of the reasons above. Plus the parades and festivals. Every week there is something to see. The fireworks and the music make our community a blessing to live in. Read More
Moving to SMA by villagemedrim555
Hello everybody, My name is Nour, I am currently living in Laguna Beach, CA. I am a chef/owner of a small gourmet restaurant, and trained Architect-Interior designer. at the age of 57 while I still have a lot of energy to enjoy the golden years of ...
Kimberly, When we came down for the closing on our home we stayed at the Hotel Quinto de Loreto before we took possession. It is in Centro and reasonable. There are many places to stay in SMA so you may also want to check Air B&B. But before you ... Read More
SAN MIGUEL WATER IS CONTAMINATED WITH ARSENIC, FLUORIDE AND OHER CHEMI by cedmac
The water in San Miguel is saturated with Fluoride, Arsenic and lots of other chemicals which are egregiously bad for Teeth and Bones. Last week, I was invited by CBTis a very large Government School here in San Miguel to check the Oral Condition ...
We (The Rotary Club of San Miguel) have helped build about 1'000 cisterns with Rain water collection systems. That of course is a very small percentage of the out laying homes. But is is a start. Anyone interested in this effort can contact the ... Read More
Volunteering in Mexico by Maximilien
Hi, While living abroad, some expats wish to get involved in the local community life. What organizations expats can turn to if they want to volunteer in Mexico? How to join a charitable institution, what are the steps? Which causes ...
I am an active Rotarian and I volunteer for S.O.M.E. (SO Others May Eat). My neighbor a couple doors down is the President of the Lions Club. If you want to be involved there is no end of good works you can find to occupy your time. Read More
Do people want purebred dogs? by Anyola
I am a French Bulldog breeder and we are going to San Miguel in Nov. To check out moving there. We currently live in B.C. I am an avid dog lover and breed French Bulldogs. I cannot see myself giving up being a small hobby breeder and wondered if ...
You will not be able to command the prices that you get NOB. But there are a lot of dog owners in SMA. Read More
vollunteer projects in San Miguel de Allende
There are many NGO's in SMA doing volunteer work of all kinds. There are surely several that will peak your interest. I am a Rotarian, and also volunteer with SOME (So Others May Eat). There is also a Lions Chapter, Casita Linda, Casa, and the ... Read More
We are expats from California, now living in San Miguel de Allende by kathymachir
After many years in the interior design industry, retirement at the end of 2010 was welcome. Selling house, auto and many household furnishings, we moved south to San Miguel de Allende with a highly condensed list of possessions. Immediately ...
Are you Residente Permenante? Unless you are volunteering there are strict rules about expats working in Mexico. I do not know many single women that follow this list, But I can tell you there are many single (over 60) women living here. If you ... Read More
Getting Married in San Miguel de Allende
I would contact San Miguel Realty. They have a link somewhere on this site. Or google it. I am sure you can find everything you need to do it right. They have weddings here all the time. Read More
Ukelele players in San Miguel?
I will be happy to make the introductions upon your arrival in SMA. I spoke to Rene today and she is trilled at the prospect that another Ukulele may be in SMA. Read More
Ukelele players in San Miguel?
I know a Canadian ukulele player that lives in Colonia Guadelupe. She said there are several here. I do not email wit her, But I could pass on a message. Her name is Rene and she lives here year round. Read More
We are expats from California, now living in San Miguel de Allende by kathymachir
After many years in the interior design industry, retirement at the end of 2010 was welcome. Selling house, auto and many household furnishings, we moved south to San Miguel de Allende with a highly condensed list of possessions. Immediately ...
I am here on less than that. I am working to put one together with actual cost on day to day living here. Read More
We are expats from California, now living in San Miguel de Allende by kathymachir
After many years in the interior design industry, retirement at the end of 2010 was welcome. Selling house, auto and many household furnishings, we moved south to San Miguel de Allende with a highly condensed list of possessions. Immediately ...
All over the map is my guess. We are from just outside of Detroit, MI. But I have met people from at least 25 states and I believe most of the Provinces. Plus a couple Aussies and a Brit or two. Read More
Where to buy Cat Food in San Miguel de Allende by TeddyForever
My husband and I will be bringing our cat to SMA and are wondering where we can purchase cat food and litter? We could not confirm that there is a selection in Mega or Costco. Please advise. Thanks!
There are multiple pet food markets in SMA. You are sure to find on within walking distance of your Colonia. Although Dog products are more plentiful I doubt you will have any trouble finding what you need. Read More
Mexican cuisine by Priscilla
Hi, When living abroad, tasting the local cuisine is part of discovering the country. What is your favorite food in Mexico? What is the local speciality? Share with us the local tastes of Mexico and why not your best recipe. Thank ...
I love Mexican food. I also really like street vendor food. Give me a taco stand and I am a happy guy. Pozole Rojo Carnitas tacos or Gorditas Milinasa de res with arroz y frijoles Read More
How to select an apartment for rent in San Miguel by SabraIsComing
Hi. I tried to find a realtor to help get the process of finding a new home going but it is frustrating. May as well just jump right in. Anybody know a good apartment community of expats there in San Miguel?
Both Guanajuato and Quetaro are fine cities, but I have never looked at the cost of living in either. Questions about San Miguel I can answer or get answered for you. Real-estate agents here can show you rentals and homes for purchase. Read More
How to select an apartment for rent in San Miguel by SabraIsComing
Hi. I tried to find a realtor to help get the process of finding a new home going but it is frustrating. May as well just jump right in. Anybody know a good apartment community of expats there in San Miguel?
The rents in SMA are directly proportional to amenities and proximity to Centro. They range from really cheap to astronomical. I live in La Canada (Los Frailes) and the houses to purchase or rent are very reasonable. Get near the center of town and ... Read More
Is it possible to live in San Miguel on $700. a month? by William Risbourg
Hi; I'm bill from New Orleans. I'm wondering if it's possible to live in San Miguel on $700. a month?
Back to the OP. I recently met someone who lives on $500 USD per month. But has no rent. She purchased her home outright. Assuming that you can get a room (and I do) for $200/mo I guess you could live here for that. I still maintain that it is not ... Read More
Things to do in San Miguel de Allende during the weekends
We like to go to Karaoke. Normally it is on Friday, but this week they moved it to Saturday. It is held at The Beer Company on the Acha starting at 7pm. We have a great mix of Gringo and Mexican singers. With 100's of songs in both languages to ... Read More
Water? by pascaltree
I have heard that water is a major problem in Esenada,that's fresh water.Where I live in San Miguel De Allende,it will be a major problem within three years.The aquifer is at the 38,000 year old level of water being pumped. Is water a serious ...
Weather is cyclical, More rain some years, less in others. I did not say drought was a hoax, I said <<As for San Miguel we have been having a pretty wet year, and I expect this like all "were gonna die in 5 years" scare will pass ... Read More
Water? by pascaltree
I have heard that water is a major problem in Esenada,that's fresh water.Where I live in San Miguel De Allende,it will be a major problem within three years.The aquifer is at the 38,000 year old level of water being pumped. Is water a serious ...
Water is everywhere. The desalination of salt water is old technology and you will likely see it utilized on the coast soon. In Saudi Arabia they have a reactor that makes 3 million liters a day. As for San Miguel we have been having a pretty wet ... Read More
How is your climate, is it too hot or cold? by Nomaah
How is your climate, is it too hot or cold.
San Miguel de Allende gets cool in Jan-Feb, 13-17c during the day, but the rest of the year 20-28c. For us from The US (Michigan) it is just right. Read More
Moving to San Miguel de Allende by PaulBart1
Hello all I am currently living with my family in Puerto Vallarta but one summer of the heat and humidty was too much! I am from London, UK and my wife is Thai. We lived in Asia for 9 years before moving here so we thought we could handle the ...
I am curious about your experience. I live in San Miguel and have never been robbed or mugged. I do read the Civil list, and they talk about crime a lot, but it is always anecdotal "someone I know heard" types of things. We did have one ... Read More
Is it possible to live in San Miguel on $700. a month? by William Risbourg
Hi; I'm bill from New Orleans. I'm wondering if it's possible to live in San Miguel on $700. a month?
I suppose that you could live here on $700/mo. On the outskirts of town, eating a strict diet of beans and vegetables. Walking or taking the bus the few places you go. There are many free events to attend, and the climate does not require heat nor ... Read More
Moving to San Miguel de Allende by PaulBart1
Hello all I am currently living with my family in Puerto Vallarta but one summer of the heat and humidty was too much! I am from London, UK and my wife is Thai. We lived in Asia for 9 years before moving here so we thought we could handle the ...
We live in SMA and would be happy to speak/write with you. I have no interest in selling anything to you, so I believe I am objective :) I will admit a bias, as I do truly love it here. Read More
Character of different cities in Mexico by ThatGuyJay
Trying to figure out where I want to move in Mexico. Things I think about what would make a city I'd like to call home - a vibrant arts and music culture - genuinely nice friendly people - a city that has stuff to do but isn't super big - ...
On reading your list I think that San Miguel de Allende is almost tailored to it. About 115 thousand people Large artist influence (galleries, art shows) and many different types of music. Always something going on in town somewhere. About 10K US ... Read More
Crossing the border in my car by MelodySsmith
What are the challenges to crossing the border, and where is the safest place to do it. I want to get to San Miguel de Allende. Previously I have flown there. What about a woman alone on the road? Danger?
Thank you, that was helpful. Read More
Crossing the border in my car by MelodySsmith
What are the challenges to crossing the border, and where is the safest place to do it. I want to get to San Miguel de Allende. Previously I have flown there. What about a woman alone on the road? Danger?
I have read that you can get that permit online, has anyone done this? Read More
Cost of Living in San Miguel De Allende, Mexico by a1albin
I am thinking of moving to San Miguel and would like to know the cost of living there. I would like to rent a small house within walking distance of the center. It seems to me however that we Americans have driven up prices to such an extent that it ...
If you want to live in Centro you will pay more. It is loud, and the Mexicans love fireworks. It is also allot of fun. If you live a little further out it cuts the expenses down and it is quieter. What I paid for property taxes back in the ... Read More
Crossing the border in my car by MelodySsmith
What are the challenges to crossing the border, and where is the safest place to do it. I want to get to San Miguel de Allende. Previously I have flown there. What about a woman alone on the road? Danger?
I plan to use the cotas, we have 3 drivers. My spanish is poor, but I read it OK. I have driven from PV to Guad. a couple of times, I have also driven from Leon to SMA and back without getting lost. I am thinking if I hit the border at about 5am ... Read More
Crossing the border in my car by MelodySsmith
What are the challenges to crossing the border, and where is the safest place to do it. I want to get to San Miguel de Allende. Previously I have flown there. What about a woman alone on the road? Danger?
Doing the drive from Detroit to SMA in January. I have talked to many people that have done it without issue. All seem to agree about a morning crossing. Going through Laredo, after a stop in Austin. Driving a truck pulling a trailer. Hoping to ... Read More
We are expats from California, now living in San Miguel de Allende by kathymachir
After many years in the interior design industry, retirement at the end of 2010 was welcome. Selling house, auto and many household furnishings, we moved south to San Miguel de Allende with a highly condensed list of possessions. Immediately ...
I have used Rosetta Stine. It is very repetitive, and I did not have much success. Except that I do have a pretty large vocabulary as it teaches you many words. I just never got to the point that I can speak effectively. Still working at it. ... Read More