Live by Design: Mexico Edition (with Taniel Chemsian)

Is Merida, Mexico a Good Place to Live? Cost of Living, Safety, and Expat Life

Is Mérida, Mexico a good place to live? If you're considering moving to Mexico and wondering about the cost of living, safety, neighborhoods, and everyday life, this episode has the answers.
In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian welcomes Megan and David back to share their firsthand experiences of building a new life in Mérida, Mexico. After leaving Canada behind, they've embraced a lifestyle centered on community, affordability, and a slower pace of life and they're pulling back the curtain on what it's really like to live in one of Mexico's fastest-growing destinations for expats.
Together, they explore the cost of living in Mérida, discuss how the local real estate market has evolved, and explain why more Americans, Canadians, and even Mexican nationals are choosing Mérida as their home. They also talk about everyday shopping, supporting local businesses, finding the right neighborhood, and how recent political and economic changes have influenced relocation trends.
If you're wondering whether Mérida is safe, how much it costs to live there, or whether it's the right city for your retirement, remote work lifestyle, or next chapter, this conversation offers practical insights to help you make an informed decision.
In this episode, you'll learn:
Why Mérida has become one of the most popular cities for expats in Mexico
The real cost of living in Mérida, including housing and everyday expenses
What to know about buying or renting real estate in Mérida
How to choose the right neighborhood for your lifestyle
Why supporting local businesses can improve your experience living in Mexico
How political and economic changes are influencing relocation decisions
What daily life is really like for Canadians and Americans living in Mérida
Practical advice for anyone planning to move to Mexico
Whether you're planning to retire in Mexico, relocate with your family, invest in real estate, or simply explore a lifestyle with greater freedom and lower living costs, this episode provides valuable insights into why so many people are choosing to call Mérida, Mexico home.
Key  Moments: 
03:40 Living options in Merida
06:30 Centro's unique narrow properties
11:37 Enjoying local seafood in Mexico
14:11 Current buyer market conditions
18:55 Political fatigue and seeking peace
22:28 Discussing client safety and representation
24:48 Starting Your Journey in Mexico
How to contact Megan and David : 
EMAIL: info@yucatanrealestategroup.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/yucatanrealestategroup/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@yucatanrealestategroup
Real Estate Guide from Yucatan Real Estate Group: https://yucatanrealestategroup.com/guide
 
 
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

Buying Property in Mexico: Trusts, Titles, and Legal Tips for Foreign Buyers

What if you didn't wait until retirement to create the life you've always wanted?
In this episode of Live by Design – Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian welcomes Megan and David, a young Canadian couple who made the life-changing decision to move to Mérida, Mexico years before retirement. Motivated by the desire for a warmer climate, a better work-life balance, and a more intentional lifestyle, they traded Canada's harsh winters for one of Mexico's safest and most vibrant cities.
Megan and David share how the pandemic became the catalyst for reimagining their future, the practical steps they took to relocate with just five suitcases, and what it's really like to build a new life in Mexico as younger expats. From navigating residency and remote work to experiencing Mexico's affordable healthcare, welcoming community, and high quality of life, they offer an honest look at the opportunities and challenges of starting over abroad.
Whether you're planning to move to Mexico, exploring living in Mérida, or simply wondering if you should make the leap before retirement, this episode is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and inspiration to help you design your own future under the Mexican sun.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Why more young professionals and families are moving to Mexico
What makes Mérida one of Mexico's most desirable cities for expats
How to prepare for an international move before retirement
The realities of residency, remote work, and everyday life in Mexico
Healthcare, cost of living, and quality of life in Mérida
Lessons learned from building a new life in a different country
Why designing your future doesn't have to wait until retirement
If you've ever dreamed of creating a life with more freedom, sunshine, and purpose, this episode will show you what's possible when you stop waiting and start living by design.
 
Key Moments: 
06:13 Deciding to make a big move
08:16 Preparing for relocation and residency
13:24 Moving to a new country
14:50 Moving to a warmer climate
17:06 Changing client demographics in real estate
20:22 Dissatisfaction with Canadian healthcare
26:05 Demographics of Merida Relocation
27:29 Transitioning to Mexican real estate
 
How to contact Megan and David : 
EMAIL: info@yucatanrealestategroup.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/yucatanrealestategroup/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@yucatanrealestategroup
Real Estate Guide from Yucatan Real Estate Group: https://yucatanrealestategroup.com/guide
 
 
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

Buying Property in Mexico: Trusts, Titles, and Legal Tips for Foreign Buyers | Taniel Chemsian

Thinking about buying property in Mexico? Before you sign a contract or transfer funds, make sure you understand the legal process that protects your investment.
In this episode of Retirement in Mexico – Live by Design with Taniel Chemsian, Taniel sits down with Spencer Richard McMullen, an experienced attorney specializing in Mexican real estate law, to uncover the legal essentials every foreign buyer should know before purchasing property in Mexico.
From understanding bank trusts and verifying property titles to navigating deeds, contracts, escrow services, and ownership structures, Spencer shares practical advice that can help buyers avoid costly mistakes and confidently invest in Mexican real estate. He also explains why due diligence is far more important than simply trusting the seller, and how proper legal guidance can protect your investment for years to come.
Whether you're planning to retire in Mexico, purchase a vacation home, or invest in property south of the border, this episode provides actionable insights into the legal process, common pitfalls, and the critical steps every foreign buyer should take before closing a deal.
In this episode, you'll learn:
How foreigners can legally own property in Mexico
What a fideicomiso (bank trust) is and when it's required
The importance of verifying titles, deeds, and ownership records
Common legal mistakes foreign buyers make—and how to avoid them
When escrow should be used during a real estate transaction
Red flags to watch for before signing a purchase agreement
How marriage, inheritance, and estate planning affect property ownership
Why working with an experienced Mexican real estate attorney is essential
Whether you're just beginning your research or preparing to buy your dream home in Mexico, this episode will help you navigate the legal landscape with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Key Moments : 
05:31 Reviewing property documents and inspections
08:34 Resolving property ownership issues
12:50 Beneficiaries and land trust rules
16:46 Paying taxes after a spouse dies
19:09 Practical tips for home buying
22:16 Abuse of rental agreements
23:46 Verifying identity with fingerprints
 
How to contact Spencer Richard McMullen : 
Email: chapalalegal@gmail.com
Website: https://www.chapalalaw.com/
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Spencers-Office-SC-Abogados-100063178031036/
 
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435

How to Buy Property Safely in Mexico: Legal Advice Every Foreigner Should Know

Thinking about buying property in Mexico? Before you sign a contract or send a deposit, this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition could save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches.
Host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Spencer Richard McMullen, an American attorney practicing in Mexico, to discuss the legal realities of buying real estate as a foreigner. Spencer shares his journey from mortgage banking in California to becoming a lawyer in Mexico, and explains the most common mistakes foreign buyers make when purchasing property.
Together, they explore critical topics including escrow services, contracts, estate planning, pre-construction developments, ownership structures, and the risks associated with ejido land. Spencer also reveals the red flags every buyer should watch for and the legal protections available to help secure your investment.
Whether you're planning to retire in Mexico, searching for a vacation home, or exploring Mexico real estate investment opportunities, this episode provides practical guidance and expert legal insight to help you buy with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
Key Moments: 
05:49 Assisting with moving to Mexico
08:08 Helping expatriates in Mexico
10:02 Pre-sales and contract issues
15:55 Unseen real estate risk factors
18:15 Annual family meeting for property decisions
20:56 Verifying seller's authorization and controversies
23:41 Real estate issues in Mexico
29:14 Importance of solid contracts
32:02 Buying property in Mexico challenges
34:09 Buying property in Vallarta, Mexico
How to contact Spencer Richard McMullen : 
Email: chapalalegal@gmail.com
Website: https://www.chapalalaw.com/
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Spencers-Office-SC-Abogados-100063178031036/
 
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435
USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Moving to Mexico: Lessons on Culture, Community, and Creating a Better Life

Thinking about moving to Mexico but wondering what life is really like after the honeymoon phase ends? In this episode of Live by Design – Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Tim Leffel, acclaimed travel writer and author of A Better Life for Half the Price, to share practical lessons from years of living in Mexico.
Together, they discuss what newcomers should know about adapting to Mexican culture, building community, navigating home renovations, and avoiding common mistakes that many expats make. Tim also shares why so many Americans and Canadians are choosing Mexico for its lower cost of living, healthier lifestyle, and greater sense of freedom and connection.
Whether you're researching moving to Mexico, exploring retirement in Mexico, or simply looking for a more intentional way of life, this episode offers honest advice, real-world experience, and actionable insights to help you confidently design your next chapter under the Mexican sun.
Key Moments: 
03:58 Live in your space first
07:16 Adopting a Healthier, Relaxed Lifestyle
11:15 Practicing Spanish in Mexico
16:27 Living arrangements in retirement
17:57 Advice on Relocating Smartly
20:46 Trying Out Remote Work in Mexico
25:05 Considering moving abroad judiciously
 
How to contact Tim Leffel : 
Email: tim@timleffel.com
Website: https://timleffel.com/
Amazon:https://www.amazon.com.mx/stores/author/B001JOVNHU?ingress=0&visitId=51a043c7-65df-4af9-a7d9-3798d9e530f2&ref_=ap_rdr
 
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435
USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Retire in Mexico: Real Cost of Living and Expat Life in Guanajuato

Thinking about retiring in Mexico but wondering what everyday life really costs? In this episode of Live by Design – Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Tim Leffel, author, travel expert, and longtime expat, to discuss his family's move to Guanajuato City, Mexico and why it became the perfect place to build a new life abroad.
Tim shares firsthand insights into the real cost of living in Mexico, finding housing, navigating schools, adapting to local culture, and embracing a slower, more intentional lifestyle. They also explore why Guanajuato offers a unique blend of affordability, rich culture, and quality of life that continues to attract expats from the United States and Canada.
Whether you're planning to retire in Mexico, researching affordable places to live in Mexico, or simply curious about expat life in Guanajuato, this episode provides practical advice, honest experiences, and valuable perspective to help you confidently design your next chapter under the Mexican sun.
Key Moments: 
05:15 Living and schooling abroad
09:07 Buying a home in Mexico
10:20 Buying property in Puerto Vallarta
13:05 House design and structure overview
18:41 Living with mountain waterfalls
22:28 Adapting to relaxed time culture
23:16 Understanding local time expectations
How to contact Tim Leffel : 
Email: tim@timleffel.com
Website: https://timleffel.com/
Amazon:https://www.amazon.com.mx/stores/author/B001JOVNHU?ingress=0&visitId=51a043c7-65df-4af9-a7d9-3798d9e530f2&ref_=ap_rdr
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435
USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Healthcare in Mexico Explained: How Americans and Canadians Access Affordable, World-Class Care with James Britton

Is healthcare in Mexico really safe, affordable, and high quality for expats and retirees? In this episode of Live by Design – Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with James Britton, founder of Mexico Health Concierge, to uncover the truth about medical care in Mexico for Americans and Canadians.
Drawing from decades of firsthand experience living in Mexico, James explains how his family’s medical emergency inspired him to create a concierge healthcare service that helps expats navigate hospitals, doctors, language barriers, and treatment options with confidence. Together, they discuss the realities of healthcare in Mexico for retirees, compare costs and wait times with Canada and the United States, and break down common misconceptions about safety and quality of care.
If you’re considering retiring in Mexico, researching medical tourism in Mexico, or wondering how expats access trusted hospitals and specialists, this episode delivers practical guidance, honest insight, and real-world experience to help you make informed healthcare decisions while designing your life under the Mexican sun.
Key Moments: 
04:10 Son's ACL injury diagnosis
07:35 Travel advisories and misinformation
11:37 Accompanying clients through procedures
16:08 Cost of medical checkup comparison
19:06 Clients' surgery experiences
22:09 Doctor communication and language support
24:40 Client support for medical visits
27:08 Mexico Health Concierge services explained
30:55 Choosing a qualified professional
How to contact James Britton : Email : info@mexicohealthconcierge.com
WEBSITE: https://www.mexicohealthconcierge.com/
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435
USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893

Retiring in Mexico by Design: Building Purpose, Community, and a New Business

What if retirement in Mexico became the beginning of your most creative and fulfilling chapter? In this episode of Live by Design -  Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Patrice Wynne-Pérez, an entrepreneur and longtime resident of San Miguel de Allende, to explore how moving abroad opened the door to reinvention, lifelong learning, and meaningful work later in life.
Patrice shares how she transitioned from working in bookstores in California to building a thriving boutique and bookstore in Mexico, while navigating local banking systems, adapting to a new culture, and creating strong community connections. Together, they discuss the importance of courage, curiosity, and staying open to new experiences as we age - and why retirement can become a time of growth instead of slowing down.
If you’re considering retiring in Mexico, dreaming about starting over with more freedom and purpose, or curious about living in San Miguel de Allende as an expat, this episode offers real-life inspiration, practical insight, and honest encouragement to help you design a life that feels vibrant, connected, and truly your own.
Key Moments: 
05:24 Adapting to life in San Miguel
08:25 Starting Gaia Boutique San Miguel
11:09 San Miguel literary festival
15:49 Encouragement for moving to Mexico
16:32 Regret over unfulfilled dreams
20:25 Benefits of lifelong learning
How to contact Patrice Wynne-Pérez : 
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Lq5Tq3na8/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Abrazos Boutique y Librería SMA: https://www.facebook.com/share/1G3Pi2gWPL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Patrice's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanmiguelpatrice?igsh=MXFsbThmeGRwYnFjMA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Abrazos Boutique y Librería SMA: https://www.instagram.com/abrazossma?igsh=MWExNWwybWZ5ODc5NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrWEBSITE: https://sanmigueldesigns.com/
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435
USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893
 

Starting Over in Mexico After 50: Finding Community, Purpose, and a New Life

What happens when life pushes you toward a completely new beginning? In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Patrice Wynne-Pérez, who made the courageous decision to leave Berkeley, California and start over in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico at age 50 after a series of major life changes.
Patrice shares the emotional realities of reinventing yourself abroad, building community from scratch, and adapting to a new culture while navigating practical challenges like banking, real estate, and daily life in Mexico. Her story is an honest look at resilience, personal growth, and why so many Americans are choosing Mexico not just for retirement, but for a more meaningful and connected lifestyle.
Whether you’re considering retiring in Mexico, exploring living in San Miguel de Allende, or wondering if it’s too late to begin again, this episode offers real-life insight, encouragement, and practical wisdom to help you confidently design your next chapter under the Mexican sun.
 
Key Moments: 
03:48 Closing the bookstore experience
10:16 Buying first house decisions
12:50 Using Facebook groups for advice
15:33 Friendliness among foreign immigrants
18:32 Comparing travel costs in Mexico vs. US
22:22 Living in Mexico: Safety concerns
24:07 Dealing with measurement challenges
 
How to contact Patrice Wynne-Pérez : 
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Lq5Tq3na8/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Abrazos Boutique y Librería SMA: https://www.facebook.com/share/1G3Pi2gWPL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Patrice's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanmiguelpatrice?igsh=MXFsbThmeGRwYnFjMA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Abrazos Boutique y Librería SMA: https://www.instagram.com/abrazossma?igsh=MWExNWwybWZ5ODc5NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrWEBSITE: https://sanmigueldesigns.com/
Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex
 
Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen!
Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...
 
Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/
 
Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate.https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian
 
Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5...
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition
 
Contact Information:
Email: info@tanielchemsian.com
Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/
Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435
USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893
 

Finding Community and Belonging: LGBTQ+ Expat Life in Lake Chapala, Mexico

What does it really feel like to build a meaningful and welcoming life in Mexico as an LGBTQ+ expat? In this episode of Live by Design - Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian continues his conversation with Craig and KJ, creators of Truly Remarkable Life, as they share their experience finding friendship, purpose, and belonging in Lake Chapala, Mexico.
From adjusting to Mexican culture and navigating language barriers to discovering supportive LGBTQ+ and allied communities, Craig and KJ open up about the realities of creating a new life abroad. They discuss why community matters so deeply when relocating, how kindness and connection shaped their experience, and why so many Americans and Canadians are choosing Mexico for a more fulfilling lifestyle.
Whether you’re considering retiring in Mexico, exploring Lake Chapala expat life, or searching for a place where you can truly feel accepted and connected, this episode offers honest stories, practical advice, and heartfelt encouragement for designing a life filled with freedom, adventure, and belonging under the Mexican sun.
Key Moments: 
09:21 Shifting lifestyle and mindset changes
12:54 Supportive queer community bonds
14:20 Introducing Truly Remarkable Life Channel
17:00 Considering moving to Mexico
20:04 Adjusting to a more accepting environment
23:46 Morning coffee and digital detox
 
How to connect Craig & KJ : 
Website: https://trulyremarkablelife.wordpress.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TrulyRemarkableLife
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrulyRemarkableLife
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trulyremarkablelife?igshid=NTA5ZTk1NTc%3D
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/remarkablelifers.bsky.social
Store: https://trulyremarkablelife.myspreadshop.com/
 
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