Thinking of relocating to a new place? Consider moving to Merida, Mexico. A city that offers a vibrant and welcoming environment for women over 50.
Merida has emerged as a top destination for expatriates. An increasing number of women in their 50s and beyond choose to make this charming city their home.
Its allure lies not only in the beautiful architecture and rich culture but also in the sense of safety and community it provides. In this article, we explore why Merida is an ideal place for women over 50 to begin an exciting new chapter in their lives.
How I Decided To Move To Merida Mexico
It all started on a boring afternoon as I was scrolling through Tiktok. I was looking for something new to entertain me. I saw a girl talking about why she decided to move from the United States to Mexico despite its dangerous reputation.
There was something in her words that resonated with me and so I sent the video to my daughter. She told me she had been considering making the same move during the summer months. Without any hesitation, I replied back saying “Yes! When are we going?”
And before we knew it, three months later our family of three generations was boarding a plane bound for Mexico. We made the decision without having seen anything of this unknown country beforehand.
It was both exciting and terrifying at once but there was no turning back now. We just hoped for the best and prepared for whatever awaited us on our journey to this unfamiliar destination.
When we landed at Cancun airport we stepped out into an entirely different world. The scenery driving from Cancun to Merida however was like driving across our island Jamaica. The weather was the same and we felt right at home.
Arriving in Merida however, was a whole different story. The buildings were huge, the architecture different and the vibe was something I had never experienced before.
It felt like Merida was calling out to me, and it did not take long for me to get accustomed to the city’s rhythm. In no time at all, I knew this was a place where I could feel safe and find success if I worked hard.
Merida is at the top of the list as one of the safest cities on the continent. It is known for its:
- Colonial architecture
- Delicious food
- Vibrant culture and modern amenities
Living here is incredibly enjoyable. It offers a low cost of living and a plethora of things to do and places to explore. It’s no surprise why so many people choose to call Merida their home.
Where Is Merida Mexico?
Merida Mexico is located in the Yucatan Peninsula of southeastern Mexico. It has a gorgeous tropical climate, pristine beaches, and an eclectic mix of cultures. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious local food, and colorful streets lined with colonial architecture.
This lively city offers plenty of activities for people to explore. From historical sites to modern art galleries.
The Benefits of Moving To Merida Mexico
It can be an exciting and rewarding experience for women over 50 who want to make a positive change in their lives. Here are some benefits that come with living in this vibrant city:
Low Cost of Living
Compared to other major cities, Merida offers an affordable cost of living. This makes it ideal for budget-conscious people.
Strong Sense of Community
The local residents are friendly and welcoming to newcomers. You’ll never feel alone in this city. There is a strong ex-pat community with several Facebook and WhatsApp subgroups. They cater to every need and you can always find answers to any question you can think of.
Social gatherings and meetups for different activities are always on offer. There is also a strong teen group with exciting parties games nights and adventures for those with kids
Spectacular Scenery
Merida’s appeal extends beyond its vibrant city life. The region’s spectacular scenery adds to its allure, making it a truly captivating destination for nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush jungles, Merida offers a wealth of opportunities to explore. You can immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world.
It has awe-inspiring cenotes (natural sinkholes) and ancient Mayan ruins hidden within dense forests. There are also breathtaking coastal landscapes and pristine beaches. The region is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
Whether you seek thrilling adventures or tranquil moments of relaxation, Merida’s spectacular scenery promises to leave you in awe. It provides endless opportunities to connect with nature.
Exciting Nightlife
Merida is not only a city of natural beauty but also a vibrant hub of exciting nightlife. Whether you’re a music lover, a dance enthusiast, or a food connoisseur. This city has something to offer everyone after the sun sets.
With a wide array of bars, clubs, and restaurants, Merida comes alive with energy and entertainment. Sip on delicious cocktails in trendy rooftop bars, groove to the rhythm of live music in lively clubs, or indulge in a culinary adventure through the city’s diverse dining scene.
From traditional Mexican flavors to international cuisines, the options are endless. Get ready to immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere. Create unforgettable memories as you explore the exciting nightlife of Merida.
Affordable Healthcare
Merida not only offers a captivating lifestyle but also provides access to high-quality and affordable healthcare. It is an attractive destination for individuals in need of medical care.
The city boasts a well-regarded healthcare system with modern facilities and highly skilled healthcare professionals. From routine check-ups to specialized treatments, Merida offers a comprehensive range of medical services to cater to various needs.
What sets Merida apart is its affordability, as healthcare costs are significantly lower compared to many other countries. This means that residents can receive top-notch medical attention without breaking the bank.
With its excellent healthcare system and affordability, Merida ensures that your well-being is in good hands. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on enjoying your life in this remarkable city. me. Of course, there are pros and cons to moving anywhere but for me, the pros far outweigh the cons.
Tips For Moving to Merida
Here are some valuable tips to ensure a smooth transition to this vibrant city. Take note of these helpful suggestions for a successful relocation. They will help you make a seamless adjustment to your new life in Merida.
1. Learn Spanish
This is probably the most important tip on the list. Even if you are only planning on staying in Mexico for a short period of time, it is still worth your while to learn some basic Spanish phrases. There are many resources available to help you learn Spanish, including online courses, apps, and books.
2. Get a Job
Unless you’re retired if you are planning to move to Merida, it is important to have a job lined up. Many who move to Merida have remote work which allows them to work from home.
Unless you have a work permit it is illegal to work. So make sure you look into remote working opportunities.
There is a large community of digital nomads who have moved to Merida. They are able to work from their laptops while enjoying the city’s culture.
3. Rent an Apartment
One of the first things you will need to do when making the move to Merida Mexico is to find somewhere to live. There are many different options available, including apartments, houses, and even hostels.
Airbnb’s are an option for short-term stays. There are plenty of rental properties available if you plan to stay long-term.
Prices vary depending on the location and type of accommodation, but it is generally relatively affordable to rent an apartment in Mexico. Foreigners must pay at least three months’ rent upfront if they don’t have residency.
If someone with property is willing to act as a guarantor you might escape this. If not the initial costs will be high.
If you are planning on staying in Mexico for an extended period of time, it is also worth considering buying property.
4. Learn About the Culture
Before moving to any new country, it is important to learn about the culture and customs of that country. This will help you to avoid any potential cultural misunderstandings.
It makes the transition to your new life much smoother. The same applies if you want to move to Merida Mexico.
In Mexico, there are many different cultures and customs that you should be aware of before making the move. Mexican people have a strong sense of family and community. It is important to be respectful of that when interacting with others.
5. Register with the Government
Upon arrival, you may be lucky enough to get 180 days to stay. All foreigners who wish to stay in Mexico for more than 180 days must register with the Mexican government. This can be done at your local consulate or embassy prior to arriving in Mexico or at any Immigration office once you are in the country.
When registering, you will need to provide proof of identity and residency, as well as documents such as your passport and visa (if applicable). The government agency responsible for this is the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).
Once your application is processed, you will be issued an official identification card and other documents. These will allow you to stay in Mexico for a specific period of time.
6. Get Health Insurance
It is also important to get health insurance before making the move to Merida Mexico. While public healthcare is available, it is not always free and waiting times can be long.
Private health insurance is therefore recommended for anyone living in Mexico. It will provide access to quicker and better quality healthcare should you need it
7. Get Your Finances in Order
Moving to a new country can be expensive. It’s important to get your finances in order before making the move. This means saving up as much money as you can. You should also have a solid plan for how you’ll support yourself financially once you’re there.
8. Make New Friends
One of the best things about moving to a new city is meeting new people and making new friends. If you don’t know anyone in your new city, there are plenty of ways to meet people.
Joining social clubs or taking classes at a local community center is a good way to do this. The Merida English Library is also a great resource for ex-pats and locals alike.
Before making the move to Merida Mexico, you should join one of the many Facebook groups. They are a great way to make new friends, get tips on living in Merida, and find out what’s happening around the city.
Many of them offer suggestions and support for newcomers and give you an opportunity to connect with locals.
I joined the Brothas and Sistahs of Merida group when I came and it was there that I formed my own group of friends made up of women over fifty called Fifty, Sixty, Seventy Fine.
It’s a WhatsApp group. The group now stands at eighty-five members and growing. We meet very often to play games, go out to lunch and hang out. We have a monthly birthday party for members and we have a group’s Christmas dinner and a New Year’s Eve party. Come join us.
I have more friends here in Mexico than I ever did in Jamaica.
Take The Plunge: Move to Merida Mexico
Choosing to move to Merida after 50 can be a life-changing decision. It opens up a world of possibilities for a fulfilling and vibrant life. The city’s charm, safety, and sense of community are perfect for women seeking to thrive in their golden years.
If you’re inspired to embark on this exciting journey, remember to follow us for more tips on living a healthy and fulfilling life after 50. We’d love to hear from you, so please leave a comment below and share your thoughts on moving to Merida.
Let’s embrace this new chapter together and make the most of the incredible opportunities that await.
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