00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
00:12 Expat Rebel: The Purpose and Mission
00:53 Expat Life in Mexico: A Personal Experience
02:23 The Joys of Living as an Expat
04:28 Expat News: Top Expat Locations
08:44 Dealing with Spam Calls in Mexico
09:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

More show notes with links at: https://expatrebel.com/savoring-the-blissful-expat-life-in-mexico-a-day-of-sun-sea-love-poems-expat-news/

00:00 Introduction to Expat Rebel
00:18 Becoming an Expat: Realistic Advice and Motivation
00:59 Expat Living: Avoiding Enclaves and Embracing Local Culture
01:53 Travel News: US Passport Processing Times and Money-Saving Tips
02:32 Air Travel Etiquette and Issues
03:40 Destination of the Year: Costa Rica
04:26 US Travel Advisory System: Is it Reliable?
05:02 Thanksgiving in Mexico and Airbnb Risks
05:43 Expat Mexico News: Investment Scams and Social Issues
07:06 Gentrification of Traditions and Native Ceremonies
07:53 Conclusion and Invitation to Join Expat Rebel Community

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-11-11

• (00:00) - 2023-11-11
• (00:00) - Introduction and Welcome
• (00:18) - Expat Rebel's Mission and Offerings
• (00:59) - Expat Living and Cultural Adaptation
• (01:53) - Travel News and Tips
• (03:40) - Destination of the Year: Costa Rica
• (04:59) - Thanksgiving Travel to Mexico
• (05:43) - Expat News in Mexico
• (06:42) - Diversity and Gentrification in Mexico
• (07:53) - Conclusion and Farewell

00:00 Introduction to the Expat Rebel Podcast
00:20 Becoming an Expat: Tips and Advice
00:59 Experiencing Local Traditions in Mexico
02:00 Expat Misconceptions and Questions
03:18 Weather and Living Conditions in Mexico
05:06 Expat Life: Local Cuisine and Lifestyle
06:32 Expat Challenges and Solutions
07:02 Travel News: Airlines and Cruise Ships
07:39 Experiencing Natural Disasters as an Expat
08:22 Navigating Rental Issues with Airbnb
10:03 Expat Shopping Experience in Mexico
10:53 Financial Matters for Expats in Mexico
10:58 Expat Stories: Moving from Indiana to Mexico
11:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-11-04

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-10-28

• (00:00) - Introduction to the Expat Rebel Podcast
• (00:29) - Why You Should Join the Expat Rebel Community
• (00:48) - Invitation to Join the Newsletter and Guide
• (01:30) - Travel News: EU Travel Authorization and Delta's Changes
• (03:29) - Money Transfer App's Hefty Fine
• (03:53) - Expat News: Living Costs in Costa Rica and Nicaragua's Crackdown
• (04:34) - Mexico Expat News: Impact of the Super Peso
• (05:27) - Conclusion and Invitation to Join the Expat Rebel Community

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-10-21

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-10-14

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-10-07

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-09-30

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-09-16

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-09-09

Jimmy's music has always been a beacon, emphasizing the beauty of slowing down. In the whirlwind of life, songs like "Margaritaville" hinted at the allure of a simpler, carefree existence, while "Come Monday" spoke of longing and the peace found in returning to familiar shores.

His album "Living and Dying in ¾ Time" encapsulated this philosophy. And who can forget the lessons from "A Pirate Looks At Forty"? It beautifully conveyed the essence of reflection and cherishing one's journey, regardless of the destination.

In today's relentless pace, where the world constantly demands more, Buffett's songs were an invitation to a different rhythm. They reminded us that sometimes, it's alright to lose one's shaker of salt.

I recall attending one of his concerts and feeling an overwhelming sense of belonging amongst the 'Parrotheads.' That moment solidified my thoughts: "These are my people."

An unexpected life diagnosis branded me a 'workaholic.' Inspired by the wisdom in Jimmy's tunes, particularly the escapism of "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes," I decided to embrace life in ¾ time.

México, with its enchanting pace, beckoned. Making it my home has been a pivotal and rewarding chapter in my story.

So, here's to Jimmy Buffett, the artist who, through his melodies, made so many of us dream of far-off places, cheeseburgers in paradise, and the promise of tomorrow.

Rest in peace, Jimmy. Your legacy will forever be a testament to the joys of living on 'island time'."

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-09-02

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-08-26

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-08-19

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-08-12

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-08-05

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-07-29

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-07-22/

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-07-15/

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-07-08/

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-07-01/

Links mentioned are at https://expatrebel.com/2023-06-24/

Subscribe to the Expat Channel https://youtube.com/expatrebel

There is confusion on what makes up an expat vs. an immigrant.

** Case studies **
In Hong Kong, Just Who Is an Expat, Anyway? http://blogs.wsj.com/expat/2014/12/29/in-hong-kong-just-who-is-an-expat-anyway/

An American Spent 2 Nights in Jail After Posting Negative Reviews of a Thai Hotel https://apple.news/AVcZf7UaFQ8-CX0HRGbBrow

Instagrammers kicked out of sacred ancient Maya ruin in Yucatan Mexico https://yucatanexpatlife.com/invited-to-promote-yucatan-social-media-influencers-kicked-out-of-uxmal/

Why are white people expats when the rest of us are immigrants? https://www.theguardian.com/global-development-professionals-network/2015/mar/13/white-people-expats-immigrants-migration

Also, check out my experience getting an MRI in Merida, Yucatan Mexico https://youtu.be/KK-Poqt4RMY

This process can also be applied to hiring web designers, graphic designers, and any other virtual workers that your business needs.

Grab your copy now.

Playa del Carmen is unique because it's the perfect combination of Mexico inexpensive, International friendly, great weather, ancient Maya ruins, azure Caribbean waters, cool clean cenotes (water holes) and a lot of short and long-term rentals in all prices.

Grab your copy at https://amzn.to/33Z19ii now.

Got a questions then leave a comment and I'll reply back.

Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat or in 30 days. It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. You can get it at http://ExpatRebel.com/ along with our weekly Expat News newsletter.

Like, subscribe at https://youtube.com/ExpatRebel) and click on notifications to get notifications of all our videos.

Watch the video version at https://youtu.be/KtA5jXBlvjo

“The reason for requiring healthcare coverage is to prevent local healthcare providers and governments from having to foot the bill for uninsured tourists,” the Allianz spokesperson said. “The coverage also does protect travelers from potentially catastrophic medical bills or emergency medical transportation costs.” https://www.cntraveler.com/story/these-countries-now-require-international-health-insurance-for-entry

While many nations are requiring a negative COVID-19 test for entry, an insurance policy that would cover potential medical costs during the trip is a separate requirement. The cost of the initial COVID-19 test required for entry is typically separate from the local health insurance coverage, which typically begins the moment you touch down for the trip.

The countries that require proof of international health care coverage are, of course, going to change over time.

The current list as of this recording are:
- Aruba
- Costa Rica
- St. Maarten
- Tahiti
- Turks and Caicos
- United Arab Emirates

Also, check out my other video on researching travel restrictions at https://youtu.be/r25xWeo8lB4

Got a questions then leave a comment and I’ll answer in a video. Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat in 30 days. Need some help becoming an expat fast then contact us at https://ExpatRebel.com 

Also, check out our How To Become An Expat In About 30 Days over at https://ExpatRebel.com

It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. You can get it at https://ExpatRebel.com

Like and subscribe to my Expat Rebel YouTube Channel at youtube.com/c/ExpatRebel and click on notifications to get notifications of all our videos.

Land based Internet can be around US$40/month and can vary depending on your location.

Always ask where you are renting or buying for a speed test screenshot.

Internet speed tests:
- http://speedtest.net
- https://fast.com

Internet access in Mexico that I've had:
- https://telmex.com
- https://www.totalplay.com.mx
- https://www.bluetelecomm.mx - mobile phone network hot spot, better than some cable internet

Satellite Internet:
- https://www.starlink.com - Elon Musk's satellite Internet access company

Subscribe
- Like and subscribe to my Expat Rebel YouTube Channel at youtube.com/c/ExpatRebel and click on notifications to get notifications of all our videos.

Check out my travel video about Merida Mexico during the lockdown https://youtu.be/Ew8YCTHfz54

Got a questions then leave a comment and I’ll answer in a video. Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat in 30 days. Need some help becoming an expat fast then contact us at https://ExpatRebel.com

Also, check out our How To Become An Expat In About 30 Days over at https://ExpatRebel.com

It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. You can get it at https://ExpatRebel.com

If you are a US citizen living overseas you can goto ANY of the following websites to get started in voting from overseas:
https://votefromabroad.org
https://republicansoverseas.com
https://www.democratsabroad.org
https://www.fvap.gov/election-materials

It takes 5 to 10 minutes filling out a form to request your absentee ballot.

Need some help becoming an expat fast then contact us at https://ExpatRebel.com

Also, check out our How To Become An Expat In About 30 Days over at https://ExpatRebel.com
It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. 

Got a questions then leave a comment and I’ll answer in an episode.

Articles cited
https://medium.com/@indica/the-plague-states-of-america-53b20678a80e
https://www.kayak.com/travel-restrictions
https://www.trip.com/travel-restrictions-covid-19/

Examples of Airline Coronavirus changes

https://www.qantas.com/us/en/travel-info/travel-updates/coronavirus/qantas-international-network-changes.html
https://www.delta.com/content/www/mx/en/travel-update-center/overview.html

Got a questions then leave a comment and I’ll answer in a video. Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat in 30 days.

It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. You can get it at https://ExpatRebel.com

And that is the latest from our newsletter at https://ExpatRebel.com

Article: https://1tv.ge/en/news/govt-to-allow-intl-freelancers-to-work-remotely-from-georgia/
Georgia government site: http://www.gov.ge/index.php?lang_id=ENG

Got a questions then leave a comment and I’ll answer in a video. Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat in 30 days.

It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. You can get it at https://ExpatRebel.com

And that is the latest from our newsletter at https://ExpatRebel.com

Article: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/world-news/20200703/new-initiative-attract-foreign-visitors-country

Barbados Government https://www.gov.bb

Got a questions then leave a comment and I’ll answer in a video. Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat in 30 days.

It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month.

You can get it at https://ExpatRebel.com

And that is the latest from our newsletter at https://ExpatRebel.com

Transcription:
How to get an electronic visa and residency overseas easily. In this episode of Expat Rebel.

This is Expat Chris and I'm an Expat living in Mexico since 2016. I love travel, adventure and culture. I created Expat Rebel to show expat and digital nomad lifestyle, foreign travel and living overseas.

Estonia, a very stable country in Northern Europe, has came out with a digital nomad Visa in June 2020. It allows anyone to work (as freelancers or even employees for foreign companies) without residing or even being physically in Estonia.

And for those who don’t know where Estonia is. It’s located on the Baltic Sea across from Sweden.

Estonia has a higher than normal percentage of entrepreneurs which has lead them to be on the cutting edge on digital e-residency and e-visas geared towards digital entrepreneurs which many Expats and Digital Nomads are.

And they are part of the European Union and use the Euro so it’s a great option if you need a company based in the EU.

What do you think? Let me know in the comments.

Check the description for the link to this article and the Estonia Government Digital Portal.

Got a question then leave a comment and I’ll answer in a video.

Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat or in 30 days. It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. You can get it at ExpatRebel.com

And that is the latest from our newsletter at ExpatRebel.com

Show Notes:

Need some help becoming an expat fast then contact us at https://ExpatRebel.com Also, check out our How To Become An Expat In About 30 Days over at https://ExpatRebel.com

Article: https://yourcompanyinestonia.com/digital-nomad-visa-of-estonia/
Estonia Government Digital Portal https://e-estonia.com/
Definition of Digital Nomadism: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_nomad

Got a questions then leave a comment and I’ll answer in a video. Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat in 30 days. It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. You can get it at https://ExpatRebel.com

And that is the latest from our newsletter at https://ExpatRebel.com

Article cited https://thepointsguy.com/news/royal-caribbean-affiliated-cruise-line-insolvent/

Got a questions then leave a comment and I’ll answer in a new episode.

Are you wanting to become an Expat soon then go grab my Expat Rebel Guide to becoming an Expat in 30 days. It shares how I went from idea to moving to Mexico in about 30 days and also share how you can save about $3000 on mistakes that I made within the first month. You can get it at https://ExpatRebel.com

And that is the latest from our newsletter at https://ExpatRebel.com

Also, check out our How To Become an Expat in about 30 days Course at https://expatrebel.com

Articles

https://theneutral.com/2020/06/15/the-u-s-sees-a-surge-in-coronavirus-cases/

https://stuffedsuitcase.com/disneyland-reopening-date/

https://www.riviera-maya-news.com/tourists-permitted-on-public-cancun-riviera-maya-beaches-while-they-remain-closed-to-locals/2020.html

https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Europe-s-borders-reopen-but-long-road-for-tourism-15339826.php

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/france/articles/when-can-travel-to-france-again-latest-advice-country-lifts-lock/

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8431939/Spain-turns-25-tourists-away-Majorca-straight-landing.html

https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-53091139?SThisFB

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-australia-idUSKBN23O0F9

https://www.expatsblog.com/news/16062010013/-china-ban-on-entry-leaves-businesses-and-international-schools-in-limbo

https://www.expatsblog.com/news/17062010016/kuwait-tightens-up-still-further-on-expat-professional-jobs-

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-australia-idUSKBN23O0F9

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/paris-always-good-idea-city-094859992.html

Tool

https://www.kayak.com/travel-restrictions

Need some help becoming an expat fast then contact us at https://ExpatRebel.com

Articles

https://matadornetwork.com/read/greece-summer-2020-travel/

https://matadornetwork.com/read/dominican-republic-reopening-july-1/

https://matadornetwork.com/read/us-airlines-will-stop-service-some-airports-around-country/

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html

https://matadornetwork.com/read/new-zealand-free-coronavirus-prime-minister-dances-joy/

https://thriftynomads.com/travel-covid-19/

https://leaveyourdailyhell.com/2020/05/31/coronavirus-travel-bubbles/

https://www.expatsblog.com/news/10062010001/expats-in-spain-happy-to-pay-double-for-drinks

https://www.escapeartist.com/blog/reasons-why-you-should-invest-in-mexican-real-estate/

https://www.theyucatantimes.com/2020/06/traveling-to-cancun-dont-expect-business-as-usual/

https://christophersherrod.com/grocery-delivery-during-a-flood/

Updates

https://christophersherrod.com/newsletter for notification of my upcoming book "Hiring Virtual Workers For Small Business"

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I had a great time.

We went to a Mayan Pyramid in Mexico called Uxmal, that's the site name. The two pyramids at that site are The Pyramid of the Magician and the Great Pyramid.

I really enjoyed meditating there for three days and also nearby Kabah.

Then we came back to Playa del Carmen our base for the retreat exhasted. I just wanted to goto sleep and be rested for my dolphin meditation the next day. Yes, I got to meditate with dolphins. It was an incredible deep meditation by the way

I came home to a loud drunk party my neighors were having as they were leaving Mexico for the US.

A fall down liquor induced party of yelling and banging things like no party I've ever heard.

I complained to the building manager and it took him two or more hours to get everyone hushed up.

I was so tired I didn't notice and just fell into bed. And got up at 6am ready to go meditate with dolphins.

Later, after the retreat I asked some local expats what they thought of the question are most expats drunks?

It is a geniune question because I don't drink. And in the past when I did I never got loud. In fact, I would just fall asleep. I was cute drunk for a few minutes then just drift off to sleep.

And the people I hang out with don't drink much, well at least not around me.
 
So I don't know for sure if most are so I asked.

The response was anywhere from did you ask that question when you were drunk, and telling me I'm judgemental which was interesting, to just a simple yes or no.

Many were offended by the question. I was surprised by how many to be honest.

The best answer I thought was it depends who you hang out with. One even suggested that some expats party the first two or so years and then get into the vibe of living in a different culture.

It also can depend on where you live. Here in Playa del Carmen Mexico it's know for it's party scene. Tons of places to party that are expat nice.

So, it's much like being in your home country. It's who you hang out with.

I'm hanging out with fellow spiritual meditators and entrerepeneurs and we don't have a tendency to drink much.

After meditating with a group, I'll have a link in the show notes about the retreat if you would to goto.

Show links
How To Become an Expat in 30 days Guide

Show links
How To Become an Expat in 30 days Guide

Mexican Bus Transportation - http://ado.com.mx

Progreso
Playa Linda Hotel - https://goo.gl/maps/1stmS5gh1BU2
Great India Restaurant - https://goo.gl/maps/rHg2SDNPGbQ2

Merida
AirBnB in Central Merida - https://www.airbnb.com/users/show/10059138
Cathedral de Merida - https://goo.gl/maps/ufvJ9pwESXr
Paseo de Montejo - very cool round-about sculpture - https://goo.gl/maps/JyNq9dMWeNv
Marago Cofee - great breakfast and great place to get online with coffee - https://goo.gl/maps/JvsNzz9c8NR2
Rosas Y Chocolate - fantastic up-scale breakfast, the plating was divine - https://goo.gl/maps/uX3A5uZFpKo

US State Department Mexico alert - https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html

Crime stats between cities - https://www.numbeo.com/crime/compare_cities.jsp?country1=Mexico&country2=United+States&city1=Playa+del+Carmen&city2=Saint+Paul%2C+MN

How To Become an Expat in 30 days Guide

How to learn a foreign language using Netflix on this episode of Expat Rebel.

Show links
How To Become an Expat in 30 days Guide

Language Learning with Netflix
Google Translate

Here are some of my favourites Spanish movies and shows. Availability will depend on what country you are in currently, but I know some of these work in the US. All do in Mexico.

Roma
Spy Time
La Reina del Sur
Club de Cuervos
El Ministerio del Tiempo
Yucatán
COMEDIANS of the world
Macho
Made in Mexico
Star Wars: A New Hope

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Show Links
How To Become an Expat in 30 Days Checklist

Today's Sponsor
BlissLife Press

BlissLife Press your transformational self-help publisher and publisher of this podcast. Hire BlissLife Press to publish your next book or podcast, website or info-product. Come join the BlissLife Press family of authors and experts and get your voice out there.

Transcript
Is the US IRS revoking passports over unpaid taxes? That on Expat Rebel Radio.

Before I get into the show I want to remind you of a cool trick you can do if you have an iPhone or iPad. Ask Siri, "Play podcast Expat Rebel" and Siri will play the latest episode. Pretty cool.

Ok, now to today's show.

Have you heard that the United States IRS, the agency in charge of taxes is revoking passports if you don't pay your taxes?

Back in 2015 the IRS was given the authority to do just that, but it hasn't actually done that yet.

The IRS has to determine that a person owes over $50,000 in taxes for a passport application to be denied.

They also have to file an intent to levy as well before they can go around and deny someone a passport. 

And it won't just happen and surprise you.  You would get a couple of very noticiable letters telling you what could happen if you don't pay.

Now the IRS does have a list of people, over 362,000 people, of tax delinquents they have sent to the State Department who could in the future have their passport applications and renewables denied if they continue to default on paying their taxes. 

So, no one yet has had their passport application denied...yet. But, if you are an American living overseas and you're not paying your taxes then don't be surprised that you have no passport in the future.

Thank you for joining me on today's episode.  Keep traveling and enjoying the world. See you next time on Expat Rebel Radio.

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Today's Sponsor
BlissLife Press

BlissLife Press your transformational self-help publisher and publisher of this podcast. Hire BlissLife Press to publish your next book or podcast, website or info-product. Come join the BlissLife Press family of authors and experts and get your voice out there.

Show Links
Jason Holland - http://livecreative.pro

Travel Channel - Samatha Brown - https://www.travelchannel.com/shows/samantha-brown
Bunker coworking - http://bunkercoworking.com
Ek' Balam - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ek%27_Balam
Colectivo (local Mexican transportation system) - https://travelyucatan.com/collectivo/

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Today's Sponsor
BlissLife Press

BlissLife Press your transformational self-help publisher and publisher of this podcast. Hire BlissLife Press to publish your next book or podcast, website or info-product. Come join the BlissLife Press family of authors and experts and get your voice out there.

Click Play!

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Today's Sponsor
BlissLife Press

BlissLife Press your transformational self-help publisher and publisher of this podcast. Hire BlissLife Press to publish your next book or podcast, website or info-product. Come join the BlissLife Press family of authors and experts and get your voice out there.

Show Links
How To Become an Expat in 30 Days Checklist

Transcript

Tips on how to handle the holidays and missing traditions from your home country while living abroad?

Today is my first day back in the office. While I was on vacation I asked some fellow expats how they handle the holiday away from their home country.

I’m currently in Playa del Carmen Mexico just south of Cancun and I hiked all over 8 Mayan ruins and then and went to Minnesota to visit family in the ice and snow. Since they won’t come down to where the weather is just so perfect we have to travel to them.

So we get in the holiday traditions, hang out with family and our kids. Get to experience cold freezing weather. I grew up in Alaska so cold weather with snow makes it really feel like the holidays.

And many expats do the same thing. They go back and visit family during the holidays.

But, of course not everyone does that. And I know I won’t be going to Minnesota every holiday.

So what do other do?

Here are the 5 ways to handle the holidays as an expat:

Fly Home for the Holidays

Like me many fly home for the holidays.

Another expat said “A couple things -Although we don't have much stuff, we keep some American holiday decorations, probably something we wouldn't do in the States. -Prioritize saving money for either flying family to us, or figuring out how to fly to the family. -Use it as an excuse to make new friends and show a "typical American holiday"

Meetup with other Fellow Expats

Throw a holiday party

Jeffry says “Attend Christmas parties with friends, go to Christmas shows at the local theater houses, go to church, etc.”

Make your favorite holiday foods and invite people over

Another expat said “For me, bringing non perishable cooking supplies helps a ton to get through holidays away from home. Specifically, I keep missing thanksgiving, but earlier in the year during a visit to the US, I had the presence of mind to pack a can of pumpkin purée in my checked bag. Got the joy of making a pumpkin pie in Russia on thanksgiving and sharing it with folks who had never had one before. (Russians, Georgians, and Chinese) and what’s more, it tasted right, it didn’t taste like it was made with alternative ingredients!

My food fix was covered with the added bonus of sharing.”

Alec said “My wife and I are American and both former chefs. The Thanksgiving dinner we prepare for our friends has become a pretty big deal over the years.”

Watch your favorite holiday movies and even invite people over

Create a part of your home with your traditional look.

With Netflix & Apple Movies you can easily watch a movie and watch with your immediate family and or other local and expat friends. Tell stories of your favorite holiday stories.

Goto an Expat bar or restaurant

Davis told me that he finds a local expat bar or restaurant and goes there to hang out. They may even play your home country TV stattions and have decorations up.

Embrace The Local Culture

Thomas says “Embrace the local traditions, there are many”.

Robert says “Go to the beach, look out at the ocean, and imagine Santa surfing!”

Ellen says “We had Thanksgiving dinner and invited our friends and neighbors. They had never had a turkey cooked the way we cooked it or stuffing like we made and They were afraid to try our pie de calabaza but they loved it and I have been asked to bring some of my homemade rolls to Christmas dinner. So keep some of what you had, add some new and share what you have with your new friends.”

Monika says “Mix and match...little bit of this, little bit of that. Go with the new, hang with the old. It is entirely up to you.“

Susan says “Invite some friends for a nice dinner on Christmas Day or Boxing Day, the 26th. I used to give a New Year's Day Open House every year when I lived in Mexico. I found someone to cater a nice meal, asked folks to bring dessert and/or a beverage. We gathered around the piano and sang carols in several languages, because it's still Christmas until January 6.”

Brick-Frog says: “I think making up your own traditions is a good solution. Often times when you try to re-create something from home it's not quite the same and it ends up highlighting how very much not-home you are. Or you end up substituting so many things it's just worthless.

Creating something new (or adopting a tradition from your current country) gives you a project and something to focus on. For example making an extremely elaborate cannelloni from Spain, making your own gluhwein from Germany, trying to decorate an elaborate Korean Christmas cake, making Japanese strawberry cake, etc. Not just food, of course, try to join in on local events, if possible, or try out some Christmas crafts online just to stay busy (cutting out paper snowflakes, folding massive snowflakes, printing your own cards).

If there's absolutely nothing local you can find/want to do just make something up. For some reason my husband and I (for 5 years abroad) have had "Grinch Night" where we watch the Grinch and make as many green foods/drinks as we can. This works in every country because the focus is just "green" not something specific. Sounds dumb but we look forward to it more than Christmas.

Probably the best tip is highlight one specific thing you can't live without from home, and combine it with something new. If only just to be distracted.”

--

One expat said: “I've spent 4 years abroad in Spain, and I think the first year was the most difficult for me. First came Thanksgiving, which of course no one abroad cares about or understands, and I was living with a host family. They knew it was special for me and wanted to do something, but it was a work week and super busy so we ended up just eating kebabs... It was hard to see all of my friends and family back home enjoying.

Thankfully my mom came to visit for Christmas and we were invited for dinner and drinks and it felt more or less like a normal Christmas minus traditional food.

Since then, and now that I'm married with my husband's family here, I participate in all of the local traditions and get excited about it. They celebrate so many more days here, and have a lot of fun traditions, so I find it very enjoyable. The important thing for me was to find people I care about to be with during these times.

This year was my first year attempting a traditional Thanksgiving dinner... I was worried having to make everything from scr...

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On my first episode, I tell my story about how I became an expat in four weeks from idea to selling almost everything and moving out of the USA. And how it completely transformed my life for the better unexpectedly. And I preview future episodes, everything from medical tourism, parents schooling their kids in a foreign country, banking and transferring money, and visiting a Mexican doctor.

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