Mexico vs Colombia final score Goals: MEX Alexis Vega (penalty) 6th min. There is no American spillover, like youd see in Mexico or Costa Rica. If youve never been to the country and want to know if Mexico is right for you, a short visit may be best. Maybe I am biased since I am Mexican American still, Ive decided on Mexico and specifically a little town called San Felipe, GTO its not far from San Miguel del Allende and Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato and Leon. Migrants used mostly to be retirees: osteopathy clinics are abundant in Lake Chapala. Colombia is not so interesting, night and social life end quickly and it not so difficult see that at 10 PM restaurants are all closed in every point of interest of a city .Simply Colombia has not an established nightlife culture like Mexico has. Joyanne . The Mayan Riviera is hugely popular, and I was mostly interested in Playa del Carmen as a potential base. Interesting post. Americans moving to Mexico will find the low cost of living to be a significant benefit. Medellin feels more urban, Oaxaca more ancient. Be patient. The Mexico/Colombia comparison is like apples and oranges, both great. Sign up below for advice from other Expats, opportunities, and professional advice. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Copyright 2023 Eureka Expat! So as far as Colombia taking the gold for hot girls, id have to say that Colombia is only size of a state in Mexico. Its a matter of perspective. David, Oaxaca vs Medellin is a very tough call, but I think I would choose Oaxaca. First steps upon planning a move to Mexico Contact the Internal Revenue Service First thing first, you have decided to make a move to Mexico, so inform the relevant authorities. If you're moving to Medellin on a tourist visa, you will be given 90 days upon entry in the country and you can extend another 90 days online. While the public sector provides comprehensive geographical cover, the quality of service is not as good as the private sector. Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon, Portugal | Photo by Stephen Knowles Photography Expats moving to Colombia long-term should purchase International health insurance to access the best hospitals and care. Arriving with your pet in Mexico. The UMA figures are significantly lower than the MS figures, making qualifying easier for those on fixed incomes to move to Mexico. I love Colombian nightlife. It took 30 seconds get some tourism stats on these two countries. With a balmy, warm tropical climate year round surrounding most places on the coastal plains, cities from Cabo to Cancun enjoy nearly perfect climate twelve months a year, all the better to enjoy beach and margarita days whenever you feel like. I was eating at a lot of tourist-oriented restaurants, especially on the Yucatan. This is known as the Menaje de Casa, or household items exemption. Mexicos nightlife is on a whole different level, you must have only explored the tourist heavy areas. a) avoid panic b) Not to scare tourists away. only three hours away from Bogot is very hot. Users are as much a part of the problem as the gangs fighting to supply them. Step 1: Figure out the legal requirements to move to Mexico The visa requirements for moving to Mexico vary slightly depending on where you're from. ), Have shares in a Mexican company of at least MXN$2,834,000 (roughly USD$142,000.). I think most people forget about the non touristy areas. But I do think its highly underrated, and has a lot to offer those willing to give it a try. To be fair, the rainy season is about to begin, and I know it can get quite wet on the Yucatan once the tropical rains start pushing through, but outside of the jungle in Palenque, the scenery didnt do much for me. I observed that if you come from a first-world country where all systems are easy (like Europe, Australia, US or Canada), you will see a lot of disadvantages of moving to Mexico. It is nearly five times bigger than the United Kingdom and nearly twice the size of Texas. This visa lets you live and work in Mexico for up to one year. If I went to Mexico I would probably fly into Mexico City and out of Cancun taking the gringo trail to get there. $0.67/one-way ticket. Colombia. Colombian women are boring and phony and only interested in the American dollars. Because Mexico is so close to the U.S.A., many potential residents will first visit the country as a tourist. It is nos even possible to compare Mexico culture with the Colombian. Sorry Jake, but I have bad news for you. The visa application process in Mexico will vary depending on the visa type. Donate here! We did the research and assessment to choose them, and we dont get paid for the recommendation. Canada has some of the toughest rules against DUI travel. To apply to be a temporary resident, the length of your stay should be around six months. 1.8 Learn Spanish. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. In addition, Colombia has an affordable and reliable bus system though the best way to navigate around any big city is on foot. It was not until the 1970s when the presence of Colombians increased . Of course you can find cheaper places in Colombia as well, but I havent found a beach town Ive liked at first glance as much as Sayulita (north of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast), or Playa del Carmen. Oh David, good one. This shouldnt be too challenging if youre flying in since your stuff will likely arrive after you. In a country a big and diverse as Mexico, there are literally so many things to do, and places to see that it can honestly be a bit overwhelming at first! Save on Moving Costs- International moves can get expensive. In most cases, if youre currently in the country as a visitor, youll need to return to your home country to apply. Makes sense! If you go to colombia see the minas de sal, its beautiful. Where would you prefer to live, Mexico or Colombia, and why? Migration history. Sounds like youve got choices, a good position to be in. And getting your paperwork sorted is the next essential step. Though the literacy rate is 92%, the average Mexican does not advance beyond the 6th grade. You'll need to invest $25,000 USD in a Colombian business in order to receive this visa. Nightlife , Cancun , Mexicos city Im spending time where Im happy. I dont like it at all.ghetto. And of course, where one can get cheap local fare, one can also get cheap local vices cigars, alcohol, and cigarettes are also very affordable, so once you move to Mexico, enjoy the gran fiesta responsibly. The CEPE (Curso de espaol y cultura mexicana para extranjeros) offered by the Universidad Nacional Autnoma de Mxico (UNAM) has a great reputation. Tie. And if hot and humid doesnt fit your fancy, the nations often hilly terrain offers many places of refuge from the sweltering heat, making places like Mexico City, the nations capital, as well as neighboring towns like Pueblo, and San Miguel de Allende, the perfect antidote with their cooler mountain temperatures. The capital of the night life in Latin America !climate , with San Miguel de Allende and the Mexico central region you live as in antioquia Medelin. Having spent time in Mexico he is right about the mountains, just like Bogota could seem cold as can be for people travelling from Medellin. Colombian girls have way too much sillicone. Failing to return the questionnaire will halt your payments. If youre moving to Mexico from North America, most (if not all) of your electronics will still work. Thanks for introducing yourself. It's . Weve hand-picked a couple of brilliant Mexican Immigration Lawyers to make your life easy. Based on my experience, April/May is ideal. Driving would take too long and we suspect it's not safe going through Central America with a loaded trailer. Its a matter of preference in the end. But regardless my wife and I are seriously thinking about retiring to Medellin. I love Antioquia climate and In mexico especially in the south you are obliged to use Air conditioning every day. Though once you move to Mexico youll notice that you dont need to know the language in most parts of the country, learning the local tongue and speaking some choice words will go a long way to endearing yourself to your new community, who will love seeing the effort, and may even want to practice their English with you too! The visa and entry requirements for expats are somewhat different and include a couple of subcategories. 2 Summary of the things to know before moving to Mexico. I.e the logic is that if a guy is over 50 and unmarried, there must be something wrong with him. Once approved, youll get a sticker on your passport. Please note that your spouse needs to be a recognized and registered spouse or partner per local laws. 1 year - 3,519 pesos (approx. Reading this I feel like I have to step up and say something.. You may be asked to pay the rent in cash, dont worry, as this is not uncommon. Great to see you here, and youre right, Im not familiar with Guanajuato or San Miguel. Mexico. Playa del Carmen wins hands down. 2- Media are not allowed to publish about this (specially about the most gruesome cases .) These two kinda boggle my mind here. You need a letter from the bank or a bank statement that you earn a minimum of $2000 per month or have investments of over $102,000 for each applicant. I encourage you to visit again and visit more places than the typical tourist hot spots. It also has a nice year-round climate. I would like to take my scuba open water certification which I could probably do in either country. Have a read of our comprehensive guide to retiring to Mexico for more information. Do insist on a receipt of payment, so there is no argument! The average person earns less than $8,000 USD per year. Interesting take, though I disagree. Average salary in Mexico. Be aware: most banking is still done in person in Mexico. I liked Oaxaca because its historic center reminded me of Colombian pueblos with the painted buildings. Also, if it were only based in the 1st-world, big city, and colonial-town areas, Mexico would trump Colombia any day as far as women and nightlife. Past all those fundamentally obvious points, even in the most dangerous places in Mexico, what are youre actual chances of being a victim. But dont forget, Mexico also shares a Caribbean coast and receives a lot of Caribbean influences thru it, mainly from Cuba (Salsa is originally Cuban), and also son cubano, merengue, bachata, etc. If youre entering under a temporary residence permit, its expected that everything you import will be exported back to your home when you leave. For import into Mexico, all inventory lists must be notarized and stamped by the Mexican Consulate at origin. This requirement means you have to visit your local immigration office right after arriving to get your physical residence card. What about rent an apartment?which one is more expensive? This is plenty of time to find out if youre ready to move to Mexico and if you want to pursue residency. If your ideal plan is to move permanently, you will need to continuously reside in the country for no less than one year. Though literally everything you could buy in the United States and Western Europe you can find here in Mexico (they have Walmarts in practically every major metropolis), I did find that the lack of really high quality fruits and veggies was kind of a bummer, that I never really got used to. The group had been on the road for nearly two weeks after leaving Tapachula in the southern state of Chiapas in late October, 2021. Im not saying Medellin or Colombia is right for everyone. Hence, moving to Mexico might prove to be quite affordable for Americans. In my time spent in living in various cities framed by the azure waters of the Mayan Rivera, as well as my travels all over the country, I encountered many things that stood out to me, for better or for worse, that I thought definitely gave me a great overall view of what life as an American expat is really like south of the border. Mexico has perfect weather and better food, the nightlife is great if you avoid tourist areas. If you move to Bogot or any city if the interior, you will find cold, gray days and lots of rain with temperatures between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Bogot is Colombia's largest city and is home to many multinational companies and banks. 1.6 Make Sure You're Legal. We are a couple looking to move from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, to Cali, Colombia, and we want to bring our SUV and maybe a trailer loaded with furniture, appliances, etc. Medelln is a city with a more neutral and stable climate with temperatures ranging between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The progress made by the gov. Its a great way to see what you can afford (and how much luxury youll have!). Much more cheaper than Colombia. Id like to go back. HOUSE (MORE THAN 70M2) If this is your situation, and you are moving into a bigger apartment or even a house, you will need more space for your belongings and goods. I moved here (from South Florida) expecting it to be hot and difficult I enjoy Medellin for having a pretty moderate climate in comparison so I couldnt have been more wrong. (Even reggaeton, actually) I suppose that partying in only tourist resorts is very different. Minus the tequila, I still cant stand the stuff. (Photo by Yurema Perez-Hinojosa) See our Guide to picking the perfect International Removal company. You want to meet the hot girls, hang out with the right people. At least not compared to what you get in Colombia with the mix of beaches, mountains, and jungle. If you move to Mexico, prepare to loosen your belt a few notches, because you are going to be wanting to eat non-stop! Girls are very open minded in Playa del Carmen and also it is more easy hook up in the street, beach, bar, disco and in thousands of different social occasions that are simply inexistent in Colombia . It is what you need to enter Mexico legally. Bring all your paperwork to the appointment, including proof of your address in Mexico. Simply Mexico has invented the outdoor living culture in Latin America and for that reason it is well known to be the best place for americans and europeans finding opportunities ..Weather, frankly , Playa del Carmen is HOT , too much sun . Tourism is increasing in Colombia, but Im sure Mexico has gotten far more in the last three years than Colombia. But, the idea of moving abroad can be overwhelming. I would give music and climate (barely) to Medellin, food (though I had two superb dining experiences in Medellin) and colonial atmosphere to Oaxaca. If youre under 30 and thinking about moving to Mexico for less than a year, look into a Youth Mobility Mexico Visa. These are intended for people moving to Mexico for more than six months and those seeking Mexican citizenship. Youll also need to provide a detailed inventory list in Spanish. .COSTCO, WALL MART , OFFICE DEPOT , Home depot , are everywhere in Mexico.Not In Colombia they do not exist.Goods in Supermarket are cheaper in Mexico, and also there is a lot more variety than Colombia.Prices are bette in Mexico, generally fruit and fish is til 50 % cheaper in Mexico than Colombia.Homes are cheaper in Colombia especially Barranquilla and The costa, also in Medellin, homes are cheaper if compared with Playa del Carmen and Cancun, but if you go to Merida , Yucatan you can buy for 50k dollars a villa of 200 square metres , this is not possible in all Colombia.ROI on your home investment ? These cookies do not store any personal information. Whats your next step in moving to Mexico? I am taking a 2 week trip in February and have narrowed it down to Colombia or Mexico. Ill take Guanajuato or San Miguel de Allendes weather over Medellins any day. If he's not researching the latest visa, immigration, and residency opportunities he's either hiking or scuba diving. Youll apply for this at your Mexican consulate after obtaining your visa and pay a USD$130 fee. Colombia. You can learn Spanish on the go 6. Unfortunately, one of the side effects of becoming a rapidly developed industrial powerhouse like Mexico has become over the years is the unfortunate impacts that has on the environment. The number of tourists visiting Colombia is now more than 2 million per year (not 1 million) per Worldbank and is increasing each year. A one-year temporary card costs $4,413 MXN (around $220 USD), and a permanent residence card costs $5,379 MXN (around $270 USD). Weve spent time in Oaxaca as well and looking forward to checking out Davids comparison. See the website links below for details and procedures. Its interesting too hear what people who have lived in both countries think. Weve looked at quality Expat health insurance companies that cover Mexico and have picked two excellent companies. while bogot is very cold. Living in Mexico as an American, you can get a higher quality of life at a fraction of the cost. Guide to picking the perfect International Removal company, Click here to get a quote from our recommended Expat Health insurance providers, Non-Lucrative Visa Spain >> Easy 2023 Guide, Spain Digital Nomad Visa >> New 2023 Guide, US Expat Taxes Guide How to make it easier, Healthcare in Spain >> Public & Private Care Guide. Colombia is a big country. It is huge and its one of the most biodiverse countries , more so than Colombia and it has 9 out of the 11 climates of the planet. Interesting post. Baja is completely different than Veracruz or San Cristobal ChiapasColombia looks beautiful. I need to figure out how to get a visa to work, and get a job in those areas. Gym Membership (Budget gym) $20-30/month. I mean you probably have a better chance of being killed by a random drunk driver but were making sure to make it a focal point of a discussion. Im in Portugal, I have all of that but its time to head home. Not the tourists. Youre right. . Places not considered as points of travel in this blog and light years in opposite directions to places like playa or cabo. Due to the difference between US dollars and Mexican pesos, you can stretch your income a lot more. After that, you need to apply for a permanent residency visa. I am an Expat , Italian expat , I have lived 4 years in Colombia and 6 in Mexico , another 2 in Ecuador (the worst place in Latin America yes .. forget Ecuador). So many Expats even indulge in a more extravagant lifestyle by hiring house help, for example. Ive put off Mexico, but have grown more curious recently, especially because its a short hop from the US When is the shoulder season exactly? Mexico is the perfect expat destination 5. Many of the central cities and towns and sierras make-up the more pleasant/temperate weather of the country (I understand Medelln has a semi-tropical weather) Because Mexico is so close to the U.S.A., many potential residents will . Mexico is huge, and the climate, economy, and residents vary by region and by city. Backstreets and non touristy areas. Mexicans are usually friendly and ready to help 7. You can make lots of close friends I didnt talk to many (any) Mexican girls, let alone go on dates, but from looks alone, I have to give this category to Colombia. A problem with Mexico being so big is that when tourists go they usually stay in the same area and extrapolate what they see to the rest of the country and think its all like that.. Thats like going to northern Brazil and think the whole country is a big jungle. The 1.143 million sq km of land in Colombia is varied and fascinating, encompassing sprawling cities like . Killers first kidnap victims, then ask for ramsom money. You can enter Colombia from the USA by embarking on many direct flights from Orlando Airport and Fort Lauderdale Airport. The only one I really got to see was Tequila. Each bureau has its own credit-scoring system with its own range. This limit is per person, so if you are a couple, you can import up to 4 pets. Beyond soccer, Mexico has access to the second largest barrier reef system in the world, which leads to a lot of snorkeling and diving opportunities along the Mayan Riviera. Using a quality Mexican Immigration lawyer will improve your chances of a successful application and save you time and effort. Many places in Mexico have high levels of English. Being so close to the equator does great things for your country and your complexion, and in Mexico this is no different. ) of your stay should be around six months and those seeking Mexican citizenship prefer to live Mexico. Affordable for americans on moving Costs- International moves can get a job those! 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By Yurema Perez-Hinojosa ) see our guide to retiring to Medellin and youre right, Im saying... To checking out Davids comparison ( and how much luxury youll have! ) lets you and... Successful application and save you time and effort for no less than $ 8,000 USD per year ; need... Assessment to choose them, and the climate, economy, and in Mexico especially in the American.! Culture with the painted buildings, if youre moving to Mexico for more six. For no less than one year limit is per person, so if go! Year, look into a Youth Mobility Mexico visa do in either country for example Colombian pueblos the... Affordable and reliable bus system though the best way to see you here, and residents by! An apartment? which one is more expensive partying in only tourist resorts is very different in or! Is great if you are obliged to use Air conditioning every day receive this lets... More places than the typical tourist hot spots Mexico will find the low cost living. 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