Monika D. Says: We are very interested in Playa del Carmen, but how do we deal with the issue of Cartels? IL Mexico Correspondent Bel Woodhouse Says: Hi Monika, Thanks for reaching out and I’m happy to answer this question about Playa del Carmen. I spend a lot of time there as I live across Read more...: How Big an Issue is Organized Crime in Playa del Carmen, Mexico?
Ted J. Says: What is the current minimum monthly pension income amount required to qualify for long-term living in Mexico? IL Mexico Correspondent Bel Woodhouse Says: Hi Ted, To be eligible for permanent residency in Mexico, you need to show income, or pension, in at least six months of bank statements with a balance of Read more...: What is the Minimum Pension Income to Live in Mexico Long-Term?
Kurt G. Says: A lot of your information is geared towards a US audience. I’m Australian. Would I be able to move overseas and still receive my pension? Australian Expat Bel Woodhouse Says: Hi Kurt, The short answer is yes. But you have to have set up certain things before leaving Australia that will Read more...: Can I Receive My Australian Pension Overseas?
Jim S. Says: Where is the Riviera Maya in Mexico? IL Mexico Correspondent Bel Woodhouse Says: Hi Jim, The Riviera Maya stretches from Cancún to Tulum on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. It’s one of the world’s premier beach destinations thanks to its white sands, blue Caribbean waters, and warm weather year round. Plus, thanks to the Read more...: Where is the Riviera Maya in Mexico?
Deb S. Says: I’m interested in becoming a snowbird and spending my cold winter months in beautiful Mexico. I don’t want the hassle of dealing with property and only intend to rent for five to six months each year. Airbnb and VRBO would be too expensive for this length of stay. How do the locals Read more...: What’s the Best Way to Find Rentals in Mexico?
Alan W. Says: My wife and I are headed to Akumal, Mexico at the end of February for 10 days, looking forward to a laidback vacation. The last time we were in the Riviera Maya was a trip to Cozumel in 1984. We might also pop over for a visit. I’m sure it’s changed a Read more...: What is There to Do in Cozumel?
David S. Says: I am 85 years old and my wife is 74. We’re in good health and receive Social Security of $3,000 a month. Where can we live with this income? We have two children and grandchildren here in the U.S. and we don’t want to live too far away. IL Mexico Correspondent Bel Read more...: Where can a Couple Live Well on $3000 a Month?
Yes, Mexico is safe to drive around. I’ve spoken to quite a few expats who have driven down from the U.S. across the country and never had a problem.
There are several beautiful walkable towns and cities close to the beach both on the east and the west coast of Mexico where you don’t need a car for your stay. To help you decide, first I would recommend spending ten minutes reading the Mexico section of our newly-revamped website, which will help you narrow down the location you want to stay.
Sherry J. Says: Would love to hear more about Mexico’s Riviera Maya and whether that area is safe. I have heard the entire country is unsafe. IL Mexico Correspondent Bel Woodhouse Says: Hi Sherry, Having lived in the Riviera Maya for nearly six years, I can say from personal experience that the Riviera Maya Read more...: Is Mexico’s Riviera Maya Safe?