Meeting Expats in Merida Next Month

4theloveofsun wrote:

Hi All,

I'm planning a trip to Merida next month.  I'll be looking at property to buy or rent.  I hope to move to Mexico with my dad (he needs 24/7 end of life care) and my husband (he also requires care).  I'm almost 60 and they are wearing me out -- it's too much for one person.  If I don't get help soon I will end up like my mom, dead!  She recently passed away.  Caring for my dad alone was too much for her.  I can't afford to hire help in the US.  I need to find either two homes next to each other or a larger home for 2 families so I can have some space to myself.  I would like to be in the safest area possible, and I would prefer a new, or newer home.  I've done the "this old house" and I'm not interested in the constant ongoing work they require. 

If possible I would like to be close to other expats.  I will undoubtedly need the social, adult conversations to remain sane    Some smiles and conversation every once in awhile can make a big difference!  Is there a place in, or near Merida where expats meet regularly?  It's my understanding (please feel free to correct any misconceptions) that Merida North area is a newer/higher-end safe area with new housing being built.  If so, that would be my focus, but I'm open to any nice area.  It appeared from RE listings there were a number of gated communities.  Being close to medical care, shopping, etc. is important.  ALL utilities, including internet, is a must; a deal breaker if I don't have them due to the health and medical needs of my family.

Thank you in advance!

Hi fortheloveofsun,

You have a complex bunch of issues.
As far as areas, you would probably do best in the area around the altabrisa mall. The mall has a market, shopping, and Star medical hospital. There are a lot of therapies available around there.

It is also a newer section. In home care, and social possibilities should be easy to find. there . Speaking Spanish would be helpful, but it seems your plate is more than full currently, and many people in Merida are bilingual.
You would benefit from subscribing to yuccatanliving they have a blog, and a F.B. presence.

My questions would be, can your dad, and husband tolerate the move. ? It can be very difficult to make those kind of sweeping changes. I applaud your desire to help, but also save yourself. Do you have friends or family that might help.?

travellight wrote:

4theloveofsun wrote:

Hi All,

I'm planning a trip to Merida next month.  I'll be looking at property to buy or rent.  I hope to move to Mexico with my dad (he needs 24/7 end of life care) and my husband (he also requires care).  I'm almost 60 and they are wearing me out -- it's too much for one person.  If I don't get help soon I will end up like my mom, dead!  She recently passed away.  Caring for my dad alone was too much for her.  I can't afford to hire help in the US.  I need to find either two homes next to each other or a larger home for 2 families so I can have some space to myself.  I would like to be in the safest area possible, and I would prefer a new, or newer home.  I've done the "this old house" and I'm not interested in the constant ongoing work they require. 

If possible I would like to be close to other expats.  I will undoubtedly need the social, adult conversations to remain sane    Some smiles and conversation every once in awhile can make a big difference!  Is there a place in, or near Merida where expats meet regularly?  It's my understanding (please feel free to correct any misconceptions) that Merida North area is a newer/higher-end safe area with new housing being built.  If so, that would be my focus, but I'm open to any nice area.  It appeared from RE listings there were a number of gated communities.  Being close to medical care, shopping, etc. is important.  ALL utilities, including internet, is a must; a deal breaker if I don't have them due to the health and medical needs of my family.

Thank you in advance!

Hi fortheloveofsun,

You have a complex bunch of issues.
As far as areas, you would probably do best in the area around the altabrisa mall. The mall has a market, shopping, and Star medical hospital. There are a lot of therapies available around there.

It is also a newer section. In home care, and social possibilities should be easy to find. there . Speaking Spanish would be helpful, but it seems your plate is more than full currently, and many people in Merida are bilingual.
You would benefit from subscribing to yuccatanliving they have a blog, and a F.B. presence.

My questions would be, can your dad, and husband tolerate the move. ? It can be very difficult to make those kind of sweeping changes. I applaud your desire to help, but also save yourself. Do you have friends or family that might help.?

Thank you for the leads!  I will check out the area and the blog.  Life is complex, all I can do is my best with what God throws at me.  I know from my recent experience with my mom (hospice at home while caring for my dad) what the future holds if I stay here.  Trust me, if I had people to help I wouldn't consider moving.  Fortunately the 3 hr. flight to Mexico is doable now.  Only God knows what tomorrow will bring.  I do know that my family will be safer and happier if I  take care of myself.  If I don't everyone will lose.

As far as "therapies" we are past that.  Comfort at home is all that is wanted and I respect that.  Institutional care, or full-time care at home, well... A sad story that is told by thousands on the numerous "caregiver" forums that have sprung up all over cyberspace. If you are rolling in money and have an iron clad estate plan you will most likely be fine.  Families, money, and death; you don't want to know the realities or the statistics. The hard-learned realities of life in the US...

Travellight,

can you answer a quick question about Plaza Altabrisa Mérida?  I "Google Earthed" the local and cyber walked the streets, but is the location considered "centro" or "north" Merida?  It looks like it would be considered "centro"???  But hey, what the heck do I know?  Not much apparently 

Hi 4theloveofsun .

I tend to consider it a bit more north, but the downtown older central area is not far away.  Merida has an odd road system that goes around the city. It takes awhile to adjust to it. The good part about missing your exit, is if you stay on the same carretera sort of freeway system, your exit will become available again.

But you will probably be dealing with a taxi.

4theloveofsun

As a retired medical person I understand your concerns very well. I have seen it many times, and I am aware of the major U.S. issues.

Please let me know if there is anything more we can do to advise you, and try to make your trip less stressful.

travellight wrote:

Hi 4theloveofsun .

I tend to consider it a bit more north, but the downtown older central area is not far away.  Merida has an odd road system that goes around the city. It takes awhile to adjust to it. The good part about missing your exit, is if you stay on the same carretera sort of freeway system, your exit will become available again.

But you will probably be dealing with a taxi.

I'm considering renting a car.  That's another research project; safe routes, daytime hours, hotel reservations in advance, etc. etc. etc.  If I knew of a consultant/private tour guide that was highly recommended and could verify their expertise in advance I would, without question, do it.  My consultant/tour searches have turned up some less than reliable results.  I really don't have the time to "re-do" meetings with RE agents and attorneys.  I don't have time to deal with someone who is selling high priced gringo services and pointing me toward the pros who are waiting for a gringo to hand over money and do nothing in return.  I'll experience enough of that, it's to be expected. I can find that on my own without any help or paying someone    Interviewing 2-3 RE agents, and 2-3 attorneys is going to be time consuming.  I need to find a house that is "legal" and an attorney to verify the contracts, as well as set up wills, trusts, deeds, and review the visa, refer import companies (would be nice to get a "green light" at the first border check when I import my household items), etc, etc.  My dad can travel, and does fairly well, but having his personal household items ASAP will greatly decrease his anxiety and help him to settle in much quicker.  A consultant who is nothing more than a paid driver with inadequate knowledge or reliable contacts isn't going to work.  I'm on a schedule.  I'm paying for my dads care while I'm gone as well.  It would be tempting to sway from the tedious, boring, work I need to do, but I have people who are depending on me.  My dad has never let me down, so I don't plan to let him down... not on purpose anyway.

4theloveofsun,

I just have to say renting a car to drive around Merida could cause you a lot of trouble. Driving in Mexico is complex and requires time to learn.

Driving in Merida could really drive you crazy. It is not an easy city to get around in at all if you are not familiar. Mexico does not have the us type of street signs, traffic is very fast, and the roundabouts are semi arbitrary. Most of the streets are in fairly good repair but not all,and addresses are not easy to find. I have been there many times and still find it stressful, and I have traveled all over Mexico.

As for hotels I suggest looking at booking.com. There are two hotels in particular  in the altabrisa area that I use frequently.

I would suggest not thinking about household items and border crossings until you do the basic steps . You can not deal with everything all at once, so try step by step, it will be easier on everyone.

Mexico is not a do everything on the internet place, they are a face to face people so  other than the hotel, you need to make connections here, using references you may have obtained from yucatanliving. What do you mean by safe routes and daytime hours ? Hours for what ?

travellight wrote:

4theloveofsun,

I just have to say renting a car to drive around Merida could cause you a lot of trouble. Driving in Mexico is complex and requires time to learn.

Driving in Merida could really drive you crazy. It is not an easy city to get around in at all if you are not familiar. Mexico does not have the us type of street signs, traffic is very fast, and the roundabouts are semi arbitrary. Most of the streets are in fairly good repair but not all,and addresses are not easy to find. I have been there many times and still find it stressful, and I have traveled all over Mexico.

As for hotels I suggest looking at booking.com. There are two hotels in particular  in the altabrisa area that I use frequently.

I would suggest not thinking about household items and border crossings until you do the basic steps . You can not deal with everything all at once, so try step by step, it will be easier on everyone.

Mexico is not a do everything on the internet place, they are a face to face people so  other than the hotel, you need to make connections here, using references you may have obtained from yucatanliving. What do you mean by safe routes and daytime hours ? Hours for what ?

Re: hours for driving, I was referring to daylight so I can see.  I'll give you some examples of the places I have driven and then give me your opinion about renting a car.  My first drivers license at 16 yo was issued in southern CA  -- 10 lanes of traffic, bumper to bumper, at 80 mph. I assumed everyone knew how to drive like that, no kidding, hahaha.  I lived in England for a few years so roundabouts are okay and driving on the wrong side of the road is okay.  The Arc de triomphe in Paris was an adventure; 7 UNMARKED lanes speeding in a circle.  I lived in W. Berlin for a few years before the wall came down; the autobahn at 140 mph is a white knuckle experience until you get used to it, but now, cool I want to do it again.  Just thinking about the open road and fast cars makes me want to take a drive.  It's all Germany's fault .  Driving out of W. Berlin meant I was in E. Germany (yes, Check Point Charley, Soviet Guards, machine guns, the whole enchilada).  After leaving Check Point Charley; crappy roads, wooden cars, and less than perfect signage.  I still scratch my head when I think about wooden cars... the logic escapes me.  Then there is my farm in rural IL where stop signs are a merely a suggestion; I suggest you use the stop signs when the corn is up  -  The closest traffic light is 20 miles away.  Street signs and addresses were non existent until very recently -- everyone's address was RR 1 or RR 2, etc.  I'm not exaggerating == I couldn't make this stuff up.  I can't tell you how many times I had to insist that it is my address, with a real house, and I do get mail   I couldn't get anyone to deliver packages!  I didn't have a "real" address until recently;  911 service needs a real address to find us folks tucked away in corn fields.  If you couldn't figure out how to get somewhere using magnetic N and the sun, forget it, stay home.  All of this was before GPS so... I'm a pretty good navigator and I don't tend to get too terribly frustrated when I need to find some place that isn't on a map.  I take it for what it is.  I can't change it.

4theloveofsun,

Well I didn't question your driving skills. I just made a few points about the country. I can pretty much guarantee the worst roads in the U.S. can be topped by the worst roads here. When I talk about speed I am talking driving faster than the conditions indicate you should. I'm not a golf cart driver. I qualified to drive race cars,  certification and all. I drove nothing but performance cars for a long time. I also got my license in California and was driving at age 13. My grandfather was a former race car driver. I drive a standard , always have.

All that aside, by fast I mean recklessly fast. With 4-6' speed bumps in many places real speed is for the most part not a reality. And that doesn't even cover the barely visible batches o cuencos  or potholes So pack up your 140 mph cap.

Let me give you an example . On a return trip from Cancun, by the time I neared Merida. It was pouring buckets. I moved to the right and slowed. Many roads here do not drain well. A guy in a ford passed me at a high rate of speed. About 2 miles further I saw him again. The rain had formed a virtual lake on the road. He had hit that wall of water at speed and rolled it probably twice. The car was sitting on the edge of the left lane upside down half underwater.

As for the time, it's two hours earlier than the west coast. The lighting on the roads is usually poor to non existent. No one should be on the road in the dark, there are far too many hazards and visibility is beyond poor. So timewise you have to factor that in. The road from Cancun to Merida is pretty basic . Take the toll road after you leave and keep driving until you get to Merida. There is a gas station and a very mini mall mid way, if you don't have a full tank stop. Don't assume because you have driven in other countries you are good to go, that would be your first mistake. I have traveled in other countries also, and my first thought is what is different , what do I need to know.

My rental experience in Cancun started with waiting an hour and a half just for service, it was after dark before I got a car, one mile away from the rental agent I got a flat tire. They came out an hour later and gave me a new car.  The trip , other than the guy with the rolled car went smoothly until an aggressive person exceed the speed limit in a school zone ran into the front of the car.  I now Have my own car which I can drive without waiting and can be checked into the hotel before dark.  In Cancun after th rental folks fiasco, I was trying to check in after 10:30 PM they had marked me as a no show. I had to talk to 2 people to even be able to get my car in the lot. The bottom line was dinner after midnight and beyond exhausted.

As for in town, taxis are aggressive, buses are moving out right now, pedestrians can cross anywhere oh not legally, just they can do it. Motos are the worst, it takes your full time just watching for them coming up on either or both sides of your car and some have their whole family on that scooter or motorcycle. A friend and a neighbor lost their side view mirrors thanks to motos. I understand they are not licensed, which explains a lot. Glorietas may be one of the biggest tests, I'm not passive , yet on one of my last trips to Merida 8 cars forced themselves in front of me. I guess it came down to my not wanting my car possibly hit. They were not yielding.

Streets may have a sign or not, that is common, there are right away rules that they just know, like here N-S has the right of way Most streets have a small arrow indicating direction, Exits will not be marked numeros times like in the U.S.  Just one sign usually, and it may be swallowed up by the bigger towns near it. Even the hotel zone in Cancun requires that you know the name of the street that goes there. That is because there are signs for Isla Mujeres every block. The trip before last I saw a mini car crushed at a signal, they apparently were not aware of  a semi truck's blind spots. On the weekends in Merida, some streets might be closed, and others may have changed the allowed direction. but people that live there know that, so it's just the stranger pulled over by the cop.

People manage to parallel park in the tiniest spaces on narrow streets. it's almost slide car good.

There are older posts you can see that may tell you more.

travellight wrote:

4theloveofsun,

Well I didn't question your driving skills. I just made a few points about the country. I can pretty much guarantee the worst roads in the U.S. can be topped by the worst roads here. When I talk about speed I am talking driving faster than the conditions indicate you should. I'm not a golf cart driver. I qualified to drive race cars,  certification and all. I drove nothing but performance cars for a long time. I also got my license in California and was driving at age 13. My grandfather was a former race car driver. I drive a standard , always have.

All that aside, by fast I mean recklessly fast. With 4-6' speed bumps in many places real speed is for the most part not a reality. And that doesn't even cover the barely visible batches o cuencos  or potholes So pack up your 140 mph cap.

Let me give you an example . On a return trip from Cancun, by the time I neared Merida. It was pouring buckets. I moved to the right and slowed. Many roads here do not drain well. A guy in a ford passed me at a high rate of speed. About 2 miles further I saw him again. The rain had formed a virtual lake on the road. He had hit that wall of water at speed and rolled it probably twice. The car was sitting on the edge of the left lane upside down half underwater.

As for the time, it's two hours earlier than the west coast. The lighting on the roads is usually poor to non existent. No one should be on the road in the dark, there are far too many hazards and visibility is beyond poor. So timewise you have to factor that in. The road from Cancun to Merida is pretty basic . Take the toll road after you leave and keep driving until you get to Merida. There is a gas station and a very mini mall mid way, if you don't have a full tank stop. Don't assume because you have driven in other countries you are good to go, that would be your first mistake. I have traveled in other countries also, and my first thought is what is different , what do I need to know.

My rental experience in Cancun started with waiting an hour and a half just for service, it was after dark before I got a car, one mile away from the rental agent I got a flat tire. They came out an hour later and gave me a new car.  The trip , other than the guy with the rolled car went smoothly until an aggressive person exceed the speed limit in a school zone ran into the front of the car.  I now Have my own car which I can drive without waiting and can be checked into the hotel before dark.  In Cancun after th rental folks fiasco, I was trying to check in after 10:30 PM they had marked me as a no show. I had to talk to 2 people to even be able to get my car in the lot. The bottom line was dinner after midnight and beyond exhausted.

As for in town, taxis are aggressive, buses are moving out right now, pedestrians can cross anywhere oh not legally, just they can do it. Motos are the worst, it takes your full time just watching for them coming up on either or both sides of your car and some have their whole family on that scooter or motorcycle. A friend and a neighbor lost their side view mirrors thanks to motos. I understand they are not licensed, which explains a lot. Glorietas may be one of the biggest tests, I'm not passive , yet on one of my last trips to Merida 8 cars forced themselves in front of me. I guess it came down to my not wanting my car possibly hit. They were not yielding.

Streets may have a sign or not, that is common, there are right away rules that they just know, like here N-S has the right of way Most streets have a small arrow indicating direction, Exits will not be marked numeros times like in the U.S.  Just one sign usually, and it may be swallowed up by the bigger towns near it. Even the hotel zone in Cancun requires that you know the name of the street that goes there. That is because there are signs for Isla Mujeres every block. The trip before last I saw a mini car crushed at a signal, they apparently were not aware of  a semi truck's blind spots. On the weekends in Merida, some streets might be closed, and others may have changed the allowed direction. but people that live there know that, so it's just the stranger pulled over by the cop.

People manage to parallel park in the tiniest spaces on narrow streets. it's almost slide car good.

There are older posts you can see that may tell you more.

Thanks so much for asking about a RE agent.  I appreciate it very much!  I don't mind taking a Taxi in town, but I don't want to be without a car either.  I was looking at hotels, and rental car agencies.  Fiesta Americana Mérida is within walking distance of AVIS and National.  I was also looking at renting a vacation home on the ocean in Progreso -- I'm guessing the Taxi from Merida to Progreso may be a little expensive?  I like exploring too; can't do that in a Taxi.  I can change my mind or my plans -- nothing is going to be "you must" do this or that.  How much fun would that be?  I have too many "must do this or that" to worry about a car, taxi, hotel, or beach rental -- I can "go with the flow" on those things.

We should race sometime -- I know you would win but it would be fun to say I raced against a pro once -- cool.  After living in Germany I can't shake my "need for speed".  Your story was funny -- the road turning into a lake,  We have one of those roads near the farm, and of course there is a rise in the road, can't see it, then you hit it.  Locals are fine, they know it's there when it rains; others, well, such is life...  We live and (hopefully) learn. I smiled when you talked about parallel parking.  Living in Europe I had heard the stories of Parisians and their parking habits; literally parking bumper to bumper.  They then use their car to push the cars parked in front and back so they can get out.  Before traveling there I  thought, nah, no one is that dumb... I'm still laughing after all these years; when I came out of my hotel the next morning my car was blocked in; the car in front and back was within an inch of my bumper.  LOL  Before you ask, yes I did!  When in Rome...   I'm not sure how that works today with airbags on every car.  Wondering, what are the statistics on airbags exploding in Paris everyday? 

Yes, life is an adventure alright. I too don't just park in one place. I have explored a lot.  Hotel Fiesta Americana is a nice hotel I hear. I ate in the Sanborn restaurant there. The food was fine. I only ate there because I had an appointment with the American consul to get paperwork notarized. Otherwise I would have been eating in the italian restaurant in the mall , or TOKs also in the Altabrisa area. They are both more than fine There are a number of good restaurants in Merida.

Your French parking experience should be helpful except for the pushing part. airbags and alarms would rule that out. The most I have had to do is tap a bumper very gently while I maneuver to get out. No one actually does flat out bumper to bumper.

Racing would be fun , but sadly the roads would not allow it, the police might frown also. I can keep a 110 or 120 on good roads, but that is about it. I'm talking kilometers not miles per hour of course. 

Yolisto.com is a forum for expats in Merida & the beach areas.  The expats on that forum have answers to many of your questions about Merida & the beach areas.

Altabrisa is in the northern part of town.

loretad wrote:

Yolisto.com is a forum for expats in Merida & the beach areas.  The expats on that forum have answers to many of your questions about Merida & the beach areas.

Altabrisa is in the northern part of town.

Thank you so very much!  Headed there now   Your information is very much appreciated.

Downtown is where most expats are. I am from Canada living in north Merida in Montes De Ame. Merida is basically two cities in one, the old downtown and newer modern north end. I could not live downtown, too busy, too much traffic, noise etc. It is good if you don't have a car. The north has many great areas with beautiful new houses / apartments. Some expats live in the north. I pay 12,000 per month inc water, wifi for an apartment. I am 5 minutes from City Centre Plaza with Walmart, shopping, restaurants and stores etc. Altabrisa is another nice area and is where the Star Medica hospital is. Are you on Facebook? there are many groups that might have more info for you. Let me know and I can recommend

beachseeker wrote:

Downtown is where most expats are. I am from Canada living in north Merida in Montes De Ame. Merida is basically two cities in one, the old downtown and newer modern north end. I could not live downtown, too busy, too much traffic, noise etc. It is good if you don't have a car. The north has many great areas with beautiful new houses / apartments. Some expats live in the north. I pay 12,000 per month inc water, wifi for an apartment. I am 5 minutes from City Centre Plaza with Walmart, shopping, restaurants and stores etc. Altabrisa is another nice area and is where the Star Medica hospital is. Are you on Facebook? there are many groups that might have more info for you. Let me know and I can recommend

It looks like there are is lot of new housing developments going up in the north. When I search "Altabrisa" for new homes it's not giving me much -- as if it is already overdeveloped???  I need to be there.  I've been looking for a new house "hoping" the building codes will ensure better insulation, plumbing, etc., and very little maintenance (even a new house will require some maintenance, that's to be expected).  I'll be a woman alone in the near future so... A "real" gated, secure community would be ideal.  I would like two homes next to one another -- single story -- so a new housing development would be the logical choice.  It's easy to find a two story with one bedroom downstairs, but I can't "age in place".  Plus, live-in help for dad will need to be closer to dad.  My dad owns his home, I own mine.  I haven't lived in the same state/country as my parents for 40 years.  I miss having my own little piece of the world. 

Mexico is like CA, they have their fair share of earthquakes and older homes can be both good and bad depending on the architectural elements.  I know how to read building codes in English and I understand what generally "should" be required when a new home is built (each state has it quirks) .  Mexico is a new ball game and I don't know the rules...  Building inspectors in the states are paid off too so I understand that element.  I need to learn some of the rules before I run off half cocked -- a reasonable amount of good information is essential -- no guarantees but it's better than being absolutely clueless -- like now -- .  I need to wrap my mind around the basics before I fly off and spend thousands of dollars.  I wish I knew more because I'm ready to go; passports in order, Mexican Consulate address, where to get background checks for temp residency, paperwork is ready, organized both households with "keep" and "sell", etc. etc.  The "easy" stuff, hahaha.  Preparing to buy homes, well... Working on it.

4theloveofsun wrote:

beachseeker wrote:

Downtown is where most expats are. I am from Canada living in north Merida in Montes De Ame. Merida is basically two cities in one, the old downtown and newer modern north end. I could not live downtown, too busy, too much traffic, noise etc. It is good if you don't have a car. The north has many great areas with beautiful new houses / apartments. Some expats live in the north. I pay 12,000 per month inc water, wifi for an apartment. I am 5 minutes from City Centre Plaza with Walmart, shopping, restaurants and stores etc. Altabrisa is another nice area and is where the Star Medica hospital is. Are you on Facebook? there are many groups that might have more info for you. Let me know and I can recommend

It looks like there are is lot of new housing developments going up in the north. When I search "Altabrisa" for new homes it's not giving me much -- as if it is already overdeveloped???  I need to be there.  I've been looking for a new house "hoping" the building codes will ensure better insulation, plumbing, etc., and very little maintenance (even a new house will require some maintenance, that's to be expected).  I'll be a woman alone in the near future so... A "real" gated, secure community would be ideal.  I would like two homes next to one another -- single story -- so a new housing development would be the logical choice.  It's easy to find a two story with one bedroom downstairs, but I can't "age in place".  Plus, live-in help for dad will need to be closer to dad.  My dad owns his home, I own mine.  I haven't lived in the same state/country as my parents for 40 years.  I miss having my own little piece of the world. 

Mexico is like CA, they have their fair share of earthquakes and older homes can be both good and bad depending on the architectural elements.  I know how to read building codes in English and I understand what generally "should" be required when a new home is built (each state has it quirks) .  Mexico is a new ball game and I don't know the rules...  Building inspectors in the states are paid off too so I understand that element.  I need to learn some of the rules before I run off half cocked -- a reasonable amount of good information is essential -- no guarantees but it's better than being absolutely clueless -- like now -- .  I need to wrap my mind around the basics before I fly off and spend thousands of dollars.  I wish I knew more because I'm ready to go; passports in order, Mexican Consulate address, where to get background checks for temp residency, paperwork is ready, organized both households with "keep" and "sell", etc. etc.  The "easy" stuff, hahaha.  Preparing to buy homes, well... Working on it.

The thing about Mexico, is it is a face to face place, totally unlike the U.S.

When you want to know something you have to go find out. Anyone giving you black and white easy answers is someone to be worried about.
Come see the realtors, look at the places they show you and look at the area, ask the questions. You have at least 3 realtors to talk to. see all or see only one , but you must come and see. There is no way to do it on line. Oh sure they have web sites, but Mexico doesn't work that way, so they wait to see if you are really interested, if you show up.

So you can know as much as you can know from there then you must come here to know the remainder. If anyone says they can provide all the answers please be very alert. There have been people who got into trouble that way. Scammers, actually from the U.S., sold some promises, and assurances, and just needed their money to seal the deal. They sent paperwork, blueprints and letters, years later the people probably still wait.

travellight wrote:

4theloveofsun wrote:

beachseeker wrote:

Downtown is where most expats are. I am from Canada living in north Merida in Montes De Ame. Merida is basically two cities in one, the old downtown and newer modern north end. I could not live downtown, too busy, too much traffic, noise etc. It is good if you don't have a car. The north has many great areas with beautiful new houses / apartments. Some expats live in the north. I pay 12,000 per month inc water, wifi for an apartment. I am 5 minutes from City Centre Plaza with Walmart, shopping, restaurants and stores etc. Altabrisa is another nice area and is where the Star Medica hospital is. Are you on Facebook? there are many groups that might have more info for you. Let me know and I can recommend

It looks like there are is lot of new housing developments going up in the north. When I search "Altabrisa" for new homes it's not giving me much -- as if it is already overdeveloped???  I need to be there.  I've been looking for a new house "hoping" the building codes will ensure better insulation, plumbing, etc., and very little maintenance (even a new house will require some maintenance, that's to be expected).  I'll be a woman alone in the near future so... A "real" gated, secure community would be ideal.  I would like two homes next to one another -- single story -- so a new housing development would be the logical choice.  It's easy to find a two story with one bedroom downstairs, but I can't "age in place".  Plus, live-in help for dad will need to be closer to dad.  My dad owns his home, I own mine.  I haven't lived in the same state/country as my parents for 40 years.  I miss having my own little piece of the world. 

Mexico is like CA, they have their fair share of earthquakes and older homes can be both good and bad depending on the architectural elements.  I know how to read building codes in English and I understand what generally "should" be required when a new home is built (each state has it quirks) .  Mexico is a new ball game and I don't know the rules...  Building inspectors in the states are paid off too so I understand that element.  I need to learn some of the rules before I run off half cocked -- a reasonable amount of good information is essential -- no guarantees but it's better than being absolutely clueless -- like now -- .  I need to wrap my mind around the basics before I fly off and spend thousands of dollars.  I wish I knew more because I'm ready to go; passports in order, Mexican Consulate address, where to get background checks for temp residency, paperwork is ready, organized both households with "keep" and "sell", etc. etc.  The "easy" stuff, hahaha.  Preparing to buy homes, well... Working on it.

The thing about Mexico, is it is a face to face place, totally unlike the U.S.

When you want to know something you have to go find out. Anyone giving you black and white easy answers is someone to be worried about.
Come see the realtors, look at the places they show you and look at the atea, ask the questions. You have at least 3 realtors to talk to. see all or see only one , but you must come and see. There is no way to do it on line. Oh sure they have web sites, but Mexico doesn't work that way, so they wait to see if you are really interested, if you show up.

So you can know as much as you can know from there then you must come here to know the remainder. If anyone says they can provide all the answers please be very alert. There have been people who got into trouble that way. Scammers, actually from the U.S., sold some promises, assurances, and just needed their money to seal the deal. They sent paperwork, blueprints and letters, years later the people probably still wait.

I agree with you wholeheartedly.  I very much want to be there and do this face to face and explore.  I  can't do anything until I'm there; talking, seeing, and experiencing it first hand is the best way.  Once I'm there I do need a place to start, but plans change, as they should.  When I learn something new, or meet new people, I gain knowledge I didn't have.  I can ask questions I didn't know I needed to ask.  It doesn't help to have new knowledge and not use it.  I am excited about going, and I know I have tendency to overthink and over-research.  In my defense, it has saved my a$$ more than once!  It makes me feel comfortable that I have a plan A, B, C and/or can apply or relate the knowledge from those plans so I can create a plan D, E, and F. I'm okay with that    I won't be able to control what happens, but I can educate myself as much as possible.

beachseeker wrote:

Downtown is where most expats are. I am from Canada living in north Merida in Montes De Ame. Merida is basically two cities in one, the old downtown and newer modern north end. I could not live downtown, too busy, too much traffic, noise etc. It is good if you don't have a car. The north has many great areas with beautiful new houses / apartments. Some expats live in the north. I pay 12,000 per month inc water, wifi for an apartment. I am 5 minutes from City Centre Plaza with Walmart, shopping, restaurants and stores etc. Altabrisa is another nice area and is where the Star Medica hospital is. Are you on Facebook? there are many groups that might have more info for you. Let me know and I can recommend

Hi "beachseeker", I don't want to be offensive but reading various posts of your's, I was wondering if you are a realtor/builder but not residing within your projects but renting...odd for me.

Adios y buen dia a todos, GyC.

There is a guy on Yolisto who goes by the name Whazzoo.  He is a contractor.  I don't know if he is Canadian or American.  You might be interested in buying a lot & having someone like him build whatever you want.  That way you can feel more comfortable about how your building is constructed.

Look on the construction & gardening forum & see what other people have to say.

I just remembered something.  Another thing you can do is look on the Merida English library website and see when they are having house & garden tours & see what some expats have done with construction projects:  http://www.meridaenglishlibrary.com/house-garden-tour/

loretad wrote:

There is a guy on Yolisto who goes by the name Whazzoo.  He is a contractor.  I don't know if he is Canadian or American.  You might be interested in buying a lot & having someone like him build whatever you want.  That way you can feel more comfortable about how your building is constructed.

Look on the construction & gardening forum & see what other people have to say.

Thank you!  I did see him posting, or at least I think it's the person you are talking about.  I've been looking into a number of options, and as much as building my own home sounds attractive, I'm way too green when it comes to Mexico to take that risk.  I can see doing that that in the future, once I become accustomed to the country.  Surprisingly, some of the YouTube Videos have been very informative.  This one talks about buying in Mexico and contrasts what we are accustomed to, such as escrow, vs the reality of buying in Mexico.  It is helpful, or at least it is for me -- a lot I knew, some I didn't.

I forgot this one too:  https://yucalandia.com/

loretad wrote:

There is a guy on Yolisto who goes by the name Whazzoo.  He is a contractor.  I don't know if he is Canadian or American.  You might be interested in buying a lot & having someone like him build whatever you want.  That way you can feel more comfortable about how your building is constructed.

Look on the construction & gardening forum & see what other people have to say.

I had to use a different search engine (private) and change IP address but I did find the English Library in Merida.  It looks like the perfect place to meet and talk to expats.  The garden tours end shortly (none April - November) but libraries are my thing.  Thank you for the lead.  I'm not sure what the last link you posted is/was because it's still under review, as is the library -- very odd a library link would be under review but I suspect a lot of people post and advertise so it takes awhile to weed through them -- probably all links get reviewed??

mexicogc wrote:

beachseeker wrote:

Downtown is where most expats are. I am from Canada living in north Merida in Montes De Ame. Merida is basically two cities in one, the old downtown and newer modern north end. I could not live downtown, too busy, too much traffic, noise etc. It is good if you don't have a car. The north has many great areas with beautiful new houses / apartments. Some expats live in the north. I pay 12,000 per month inc water, wifi for an apartment. I am 5 minutes from City Centre Plaza with Walmart, shopping, restaurants and stores etc. Altabrisa is another nice area and is where the Star Medica hospital is. Are you on Facebook? there are many groups that might have more info for you. Let me know and I can recommend

Hi "beachseeker", I don't want to be offensive but reading various posts of your's, I was wondering if you are a realtor/builder but not residing within your projects but renting...odd for me.

Adios y buen dia a todos, GyC.

I am a developer yes, we are building on the beach in San Crisanto. How would it be odd for me not to Iive on site, if we are under construction? I live in north Merida. But thank you for you concern

travellight wrote:

Yes, life is an adventure alright. I too don't just park in one place. I have explored a lot.  Hotel Fiesta Americana is a nice hotel I hear. I ate in the Sanborn restaurant there. The food was fine. I only ate there because I had an appointment with the American consul to get paperwork notarized. Otherwise I would have been eating in the italian restaurant in the mall , or TOKs also in the Altabrisa area. They are both more than fine There are a number of good restaurants in Merida.

Your French parking experience should be helpful except for the pushing part. airbags and alarms would rule that out. The most I have had to do is tap a bumper very gently while I maneuver to get out. No one actually does flat out bumper to bumper.

Racing would be fun , but sadly the roads would not allow it, the police might frown also. I can keep a 110 or 120 on good roads, but that is about it. I'm talking kilometers not miles per hour of course. 

I found a place to race:  Autodromo de Yucatan   Hope I can find a fast car to rent 

  Never say die.

travellight wrote:

  Never say die.

I won't say it, but I do want to go out having fun   One is only as old as one feels.  My brain keeps telling my body I'm 20; somedays my body says "okay" and some days it says  I can't wrap my head around this being "old" thing.  What is old?  When I squeeze my eye lids partially closed, the face in the mirror looks 20 (after a couple beers)   

On a beautiful sunny day, with the windows down in my car, and some great tunes playing on the radio (Fun-Fun-Fun by the Beach Boys), and the car is flying with the telephone poles looking like a picket fence (Hot Rod Lincoln) I know I'm not old.  I'm not sure how old you are, but I assume you remember those songs.

A few years back, on a nice flat 2 lane country road in the middle of nowhere, I passed a couple boys in a pick-up (nice truck, a hemi in it I think).  I'm sure one friend told the other he was driving slower than an old lady.  He speeds up and "tries" to get on my bumper, when we hit 120 (that would be mph) he backed off -- highlight of my day.  Young whipper snappers, I showed them, hahaha.

So 4TLOS,

You are a born cruiser, Going down the road with the wind in your hair and favorite tunes. I remember that from school days.

As for actual racing , most of that is not allowed. The cars are stripped down to their essentials, no radio or other fussy stuff that may distract from the task at hand. I had to have a physical because I was 40 and they were making sure people could stand the stress. Getting into some of the cars requires stepping, or climbing in. The formula car was on of those. Plus because of the stripping down, there was no ignition. If you spun it out and it died they had to bring a battery on a mobile cart to restart the beast. Then there is all of the fire retardant racing gear and helmet That is actual racing. I still drive with total focus on driving no phone calls, and no radio on.

I will check your track and see what the rules are.

travellight wrote:

So 4TLOS,

You are a born cruiser, Going down the road with the wind in your hair and favorite tunes. I remember that from school days.

As for actual racing , most of that is not allowed. The cars are stripped down to their essentials, no radio or other fussy stuff that may distract from the task at hand. I had to have a physical because I was 40 and they were making sure people could stand the stress. Getting into some of the cars requires stepping, or climbing in. The formula car was on of those. Plus because of the stripping down, there was no ignition. If you spun it out and it died they had to bring a battery on a mobile cart to restart the beast. Then there is all of the fire retardant racing gear and helmet That is actual racing. I still drive with total focus on driving no phone calls, and no radio on.

I will check your track and see what the rules are.

No hurries, no worries.  Years ago you could "rent" (sneak in or if you knew someone) the Corona track for private use.  My farm is way out in the boonies; There are 2 roads that can be used to race -- proper caution of course; like making sure the only cop around is parked at his usual speed trap   I was web surfing Google Earth, taking a virtual walk, and found the cool speedway and it reminded of the Corona days.

I imagine many raced on back roads I know we did., and many guys built custom cars that were quite impressive. Much of that is gone except some farm areas I imagine. You wouldn't see any of that here. Long roads yes, but not safe roads .

I prefer actual smooth well banked roads in excellent repair like Laguna seca..