tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72173428322797530372024-03-28T03:16:08.250-04:00A Certain Bent Appeal Travel Blog: Travel Stories and TipsA left of center take on travel.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger78125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-44597768802675055062017-08-24T14:11:00.001-04:002017-08-24T14:36:29.523-04:00Expat 101: How To Move Back HomeIn August 2016, I moved back home to Toronto, Canada after four years living in Mexico City and traveling the world.<br />
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The transition was ... brutal. Financially, socially, and emotionally brutal. I made so many mistakes. So, I'm writing this post to help YOU, dear expat, not make all the mistakes I did. Or at least be a heck of a lot more prepared for the transition.<br />
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Here's my advice to prepare for a successful return home. There's <b>a checklist at the end of this post </b>but I wanted to touch on a couple of topics in depth.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUUVAVwrtd5PedyYbFgYbaEDUhK1INaeLLPeBbBnJiLsQ_miOMVlVRSKcQoyx-Sngk1ed9KmXeW0GPHLLMk-lhy-jcrh9mqZ9tKl1KQVqdGzX4Xb01xyaOpn_8DMWFQVlM7v5j38TF1Uke/s1600/niagarafalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUUVAVwrtd5PedyYbFgYbaEDUhK1INaeLLPeBbBnJiLsQ_miOMVlVRSKcQoyx-Sngk1ed9KmXeW0GPHLLMk-lhy-jcrh9mqZ9tKl1KQVqdGzX4Xb01xyaOpn_8DMWFQVlM7v5j38TF1Uke/s640/niagarafalls.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Niagara Falls with friends, shortly after we returned to Canada.</td></tr>
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<b>If You're Bringing a Partner With You...</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I brought my Mexican husband back with me to Canada and oh brother, is that another kettle of fish. All I can say is, don't do in-country sponsorship if you can help it. <b>Do the paperwork and get the spousal visa BEFORE you arrive home</b>--it will save you a world of financial pain. And not just a temporary resident visa, get the permanent resident visa and the work visa before you get on that airplane.<br />
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Trust me. Whole other post on this is coming.<br />
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<b>Housing</b><br />
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Set up in advance a cushy landing place for your return. To keep costs low, <b>see if you can crash with family or friends</b> until you have a steady source of income and your own place to live. It's inconvenient, but you need to save the dough. And you'll also give yourself breathing room to find the perfect apartment and job.</div>
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If crashing isn't an option, <a href="http://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple" target="_blank">Airbnb</a> is a great way to find a short-term rental where you can stay while getting back on your feet. Whether you want a private apartment or a cheap room, Airbnb delivers (if you haven't signed up yet, <a href="http://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple" target="_blank">click here</a> to get $25 towards your first trip!).</div>
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<b>Employment</b></div>
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In an ideal world, you'd be able to score a job from abroad. But, most employers require an in-person interview. So, do the prep work. <b>Update your CV and LinkedIn profile</b>, plus your list of references. Update or create an online portfolio. Poke around at job listings to see what's out there. Contact friends or business associates at companies you want to work at and ask if any jobs will be opening up.<br />
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If you're freelancing, now's the time to shore up extra assignments to financially cushion the transition. <b>If you're not freelancing or working remotely, if might be time to do it.</b><br />
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Here are some options:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Teach English online (try <a href="https://t.vipkid.com.cn/" target="_blank">VIPKID</a> or make a profile on <a href="http://www.verbalplanet.com/index.asp" target="_blank">Verbalplanet</a>)</li>
<li>Scour remote job boards like <a href="https://weworkremotely.com/" target="_blank">We Work Remotely</a></li>
<li>Sign up with a temping agency (in your home country). Try <a href="http://randstad.com/" target="_blank">Randstad</a>.</li>
<li>Freelance writing (<a href="https://www.contena.co/" target="_blank">Contena</a> can help new writers)</li>
<li>Scout odd jobs or cash jobs on websites like <a href="https://www.craigslist.ca/about/sites" target="_blank">Craigslist</a></li>
<li>Check sites like <a href="https://www.upwork.com/" target="_blank">Upwork</a> and <a href="http://freelancer.com/">Freelancer.com</a> for short-term assignments that fit with your experience</li>
</ul>
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(I'm going to write a longer post on this and I'll link to it here when it's up)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miguel's first winter. In Thunder Bay, Ontario.</td></tr>
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<b>Friends</b></div>
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Depending on how long you've been gone, your friend circle might be smaller or less reliable. Contact your buds in advance and make definite plans to see them once you're back. You might even consider throwing yourself a "I'm back" bash at a bar or restaurant. </div>
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You're probably in a tight financial situation, so <b>suggest cheap hangout activities</b> like meeting for coffee, working out together, going for a walk, visiting a free cultural event, or coming over to your place (if possible).</div>
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It's possible your friends could've ... vanished. It happens. People move away or their lives change. So, it's time to make some new buds. </div>
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Check out your local YMCA for varsity sports teams. Sign up for a language or art class. Volunteer for a cause that speaks to you, whether that's rescue dogs, teen mental health, a community garden etc. </div>
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Seek out people from your expat home on sites like <a href="http://meetup.com/">Meetup.com</a> (you'll probably want to practice your language skills anyway!).</div>
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It's awkward to make new friends but just remember, you did it abroad! And there always going to be newcomers at home--now it's your turn to make them feel welcome.<br />
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<b>Physical Health</b><br />
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You may not have regularly gone to the doctor or dentist abroad. Depending on the situation in your home country, <b>it might be worth it to get a physical and your teeth cleaned before you leave </b>(I did all my dental work in Mexico and it was waaaayyyy cheaper). Stock up on any medications just in case you have trouble finding an equivalent or getting a prescription when you get home.<br />
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And definitely research your options at home. In my case, I had to wait three months to get my health coverage back in Canada. Depending on your health, planning for the transition can be really crucial.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can still travel in your home country! We escaped to Montreal soon after we got back.</td></tr>
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<b>Emotional Health</b><br />
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Let me tell you, <b>reverse culture shock is real!</b> When I first came back from Mexico to Toronto, I felt like I was in a movie about someone else's life. The most random stuff felt bizarre, like how quiet it was, the absence of traffic, the different cultural practices and expectations.<br />
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I was shocked to remember, for example, how many people talk to themselves here. How severe mental health issues are so visible--people yelling and creating a ruckus. I'm not complaining, in fact it really sucks how many people don't get the mental health support they need in a first world country. It's just, <i>you don't see that in Mexico</i>.<br />
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So! Preparation is key. Make the first week back low-key. Don't push yourself to run around and see a million things and meet with a million people. Not only will you be overwhelmed, but the time change and jet lag aren't going to help.<br />
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Allow for lots of down time and give yourself the space you need to chill and recuperate. Try journalling, blogging, or talk to a therapist. Make time to shoot hoops or go for a run. Treat yourself to an amazing meal. Don't be stressed if you're sleeping more--your body is re-adjusting. Make a to do list and don't panic about it. It'll all get done eventually.</div>
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<b><br /></b>
<b>Check List</b><br />
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<ol>
<li>If you have a foreign partner, get them permanent residency and a work visa for your home country first. Research process for bringing over kids and/or pets.</li>
<li>Find a place to stay and negotiate exactly how long you can crash there.</li>
<li>Estimate how long it'll take you to find a job at home and what your monthly expenses will be. Rent? Will you need to buy a car? Pay debts? Buy a winter coat? Save up. Take freelancing jobs, if possible. Research EI benefits or disability support if you think you'll need it.</li>
<li>Book your flight.</li>
<li>Post on social media announcing your return. Ask friends to look out for jobs/housing for you!</li>
<li>Email your inner circle and make plans to hang out.</li>
<li>Make a list of fun government-related stuff you'll need to do when you go back like renewing your driver's license/passport, notifying the tax office of your return, and researching health insurance options.</li>
<li>Stock up on current medication.</li>
<li>Research activities at home like informal language exchanges or classes. Mark in your calendar events to look forward to like concerts, street fairs, and getaways.</li>
<li>Ship ahead anything you can't take on the plane, pack the rest.</li>
<li>Take it easy the first week! Major life stuff happening.</li>
<li>Change your addresses, get a local phone number and data plan, send out CVs, breeaatthhhheee.</li>
</ol>
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<b>**Please note, this list doesn't include tying up loose ends in your country overseas. Post coming soon!**</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Check out this reading list:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/2w1P0cG" target="_blank">100 Conversations For Career Success</a> (includes networking online)</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/2vtaYlz" target="_blank">Do What You Are</a> (if you're contemplating a career change)</li>
</ul>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com377tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-56153685855621686222016-09-14T10:41:00.003-04:002016-10-06T10:49:58.730-04:00How To Take the Bus In Mexico CityThe bus system in Mexico City is reliable, safe, dirt cheap, and goes <i>everywhere</i> so you'll want to learn how to use it.<br />
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That said, it can be a bit intimidating the first time. I've got to scoop so you can stop taking all those Ubers, save money, and people-watch your heart out. And all advice has been vetted by native Mexico City residents, so you're getting the real deal.<br />
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Read on if you want to know EVERYTHING about taking the bus in Mexico City...<br />
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<b>TYPES OF BUSES</b>
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There are five types of buses in Mexico City:<br />
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<b>1. Camion</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A medium-sized bus. Usually green or purple. Runs on major streets/routes.</td></tr>
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<b>2. Microbus (also called <i>pesero</i>)</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkIznxzOC_YnEUZCR0vK9oXwTroyZiD7RoAfUS6I74MirkTuHyZ-VNG4vEIxnVHUcHW3RWt-xC9mLAPT2R_FGkLBnS3RS8QoyW0leagBzHp60P36WjhkCN3Ct4L5tDE9tM73uEez7IKd-/s1600/Mexico_city_microbus_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkIznxzOC_YnEUZCR0vK9oXwTroyZiD7RoAfUS6I74MirkTuHyZ-VNG4vEIxnVHUcHW3RWt-xC9mLAPT2R_FGkLBnS3RS8QoyW0leagBzHp60P36WjhkCN3Ct4L5tDE9tM73uEez7IKd-/s640/Mexico_city_microbus_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smaller bus that runs on more minor routes/streets. They stop frequently and can be quite slow.</td></tr>
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<b>3. Combi</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha25jmPc0Axnw96_d0XHeQ8touMnCgPsOYC-RZOOuXd9vgaaJlEs9ZqE0KoWWWwumjC4z3-0rXHLJ6kjtkH_HckJcPXRpGhQ3yfXPqaKvm0ZqJdgzOqQ3VY44zlWadm-as3mW4f5ygPzpU/s1600/combi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha25jmPc0Axnw96_d0XHeQ8touMnCgPsOYC-RZOOuXd9vgaaJlEs9ZqE0KoWWWwumjC4z3-0rXHLJ6kjtkH_HckJcPXRpGhQ3yfXPqaKvm0ZqJdgzOqQ3VY44zlWadm-as3mW4f5ygPzpU/s640/combi.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vans that take similar routes to microbuses but since they fill up quickly, they don't stop as much. <br />
So it can be faster to take them.</td></tr>
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<b>4. Trolebus </b>(or <i>el trole</i> for short)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZ25GWBAIeD0gv85ST0bi0ahBG7O7Myj5PKCKYzH88r566JWJOxsBM8SeNVIj-S9Tp3G2-oOMd62Dd3oce3-ZUaWK9FN_WpSTyvXm_RU_FzTBydweHo_h1ylO6j40S1k1U6do-3Ju4Fuq/s1600/DivNorteTrolebusDF.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZ25GWBAIeD0gv85ST0bi0ahBG7O7Myj5PKCKYzH88r566JWJOxsBM8SeNVIj-S9Tp3G2-oOMd62Dd3oce3-ZUaWK9FN_WpSTyvXm_RU_FzTBydweHo_h1ylO6j40S1k1U6do-3Ju4Fuq/s640/DivNorteTrolebusDF.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Electric bus, runs only on a very few principal streets.</td></tr>
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<b>5. Metrobus</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Z5MgHpPhLZOf-x-hEm8lkAgMNDSb0z7HDzQL4wAGQB7JIGMc8ruoNAouPg4zuWtVRdch4JBQQYhG2bJSxwmIYQqpCZHavyetPe3nNJdGh2qVTWv58g3wYlDaZAsMDJpZSYA5TOmVuBS0/s1600/metrobus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Z5MgHpPhLZOf-x-hEm8lkAgMNDSb0z7HDzQL4wAGQB7JIGMc8ruoNAouPg4zuWtVRdch4JBQQYhG2bJSxwmIYQqpCZHavyetPe3nNJdGh2qVTWv58g3wYlDaZAsMDJpZSYA5TOmVuBS0/s640/metrobus.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bus with dedicated lane and stations.</td></tr>
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<b>BUS ROUTES</b></div>
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This one's a bit of a doozy. There's no official bus route map that I know of for the <b>camiones</b>, <b>microbuses</b>, and <b>combis</b>. Ask a trusted friend or get ready to do some educated guessing. Apparently <a href="https://support.google.com/maps/answer/144339?co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop&hl=en" target="_blank">Google Maps</a> now shows some transit routes, including bus routes. <a href="https://support.google.com/maps/answer/144339?co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop&hl=en" target="_blank">This link</a> shows you how to get directions from Google Maps, including via transit. Lifesaver!<br />
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All buses have signs in their windshields. The sign will indicate the final destination of the bus and possibly some major points along the way.</div>
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For example, the Miguel Angel de Quevedo bus near Coyoacan in the south of the city either says "Tasqueña" (going east) or "San Angel" (going west). The sign may also say "Walmart" and "Mega," which are big superstores along the route. The MAQ bus generally runs along that main street but don't be fooled--it does divert, as do all other buses generally. </div>
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Taking the bus works best if you absolutely know you're going to either the final destination or one of the stops mentioned on the sign. If you're going somewhere else, you'll have to chance getting lost (see the "getting lost" section below) so bank in extra time to get to your destination.</div>
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The <b>Metrobus</b>, on the other hand, runs in its own lane in the street. There's a <a href="http://www.metrobus.cdmx.gob.mx/mapa.html" target="_blank">route map</a> and actual stations, so you can plan ahead.<br />
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The <b>Trolebus</b> also has <a href="http://www.ste.cdmx.gob.mx/index.html?page=1&content=2" target="_blank">a route map</a>. Right click on the page and click "translate to English" for an English version (this works on the Chrome browser, at least).</div>
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<b>COST OF BUSES</b></div>
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<ol>
<li><b>Camion</b>: 5 pesos (4 pesos on selected routes like on Miquel Angel de Quevedo). There's a sign posted with the fares but feel free to ask the driver "Cuanto es?" He/she may ask you "Donde vas?" meaning: where are you going? This is because the bus sometimes costs more if you're going a longer distance. You can either indicate a cross-street ("Universidad y Division del Norte") or a major location ("Walmart").</li>
<li><b>Microbus</b>: 4 pesos, but can be more on longer routes (see above).</li>
<li><b>Trolleybus</b>: 2 pesos. Some trolleybuses are FREE. They should say "gratis" on the windowshield.</li>
<li><b>Metrobus</b>: 6 pesos.</li>
</ol>
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<b>HOW TO FLAG A BUS</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Camiones</b>,<b> microbuses</b>,<b> combis</b>, and <b>trolebuses </b>have their own dedicated bus shelters. However, you can flag a camion, microbus, or combi from <i>anywhere</i> along the route you please. Just stand on the side of the road and stick out your arm like you're flagging a taxi. Usually the bus will stop but if it's in a hurry or full it might just pass you by. For trolleybuses, you MUST wait in a bus shelter. It won't pick you up where ever.</div>
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<b>Metrobuses</b> have their own stations. You just stand on the platform and wait for a bus to pull up and for the doors to open. Generally, the stations are long rectangles in the middle of the street and buses run on either side (in different directions). </div>
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You can tell the direction by looking at the digital signs on the front and sides of the buses. They function the same way as other buses in that they'll list their final destination. For example, Metrobuses that run on Insurgentes say "Indios Verdes" if they run north and "Caminero" or "Doctor Galvez" if they run south. </div>
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<div>
The reason for different destinations is that some buses run the entire route and some only run part. Sometimes two routes can run on the same track, so a different destination can mean a different route. Carry a route map with you! <i>Believe me, this is all not as hard as it sounds.</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>HOW TO PAY YOUR FARE</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
For <b>camiones</b> and <b>microbuses</b> hand over your money to the driver when you get on the bus. Sometimes the driver will have a "helper" who'll take your money instead and give you change if you need it--they'll probably sit beside or behind the driver and they'll let you know if you're supposed to give them the money. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You can also enter the bus from the back door, but only if it's full at the front door. In that case, to pay your fare, just give your money to the person in front of you and say "le pasa uno, por favor" which means "please pass this." </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You can even give a bigger coin (like a 10 peso coin for a 5 peso fare) and the driver will pass your change back, which I find marvelous. People don't steal your money, or at least I've never experienced it, probably because it goes against standard Mexico City bus etiquette. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For <b>trolleybuses</b>, there's a clear plastic canister by the bus driver to deposit your cash (coins only, no change given).<br />
<br />
For <b>combis</b>, you pay at the <i>end</i> of your journey before you get out. About three blocks before your destination, pass your money through the front window and tell the driver where you got on and where you want to get off. Say "Subi en el mercado, bajo en la panaderia" (I got on at the market and I'm getting off at the bakery). Obviously, instead of <i>mercado</i> and <i>panaderia</i> you could say a cross street like "Universidad y Division del Norte."<br />
<br />
If you're sitting at the back of the combi and you can't reach the driver, ask the person next to you to pass it up: "Le pasa, por favor. Subi en el mercado, bajo en la panaderia."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Only the Metrobus takes pre-paid cards. All other buses take cash only.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Metrobuses</b> require a special card that you buy at Metrobus stations from the machine (the larger one that accepts bills, not the smaller machine that takes only coins). The card itself costs 10 pesos, plus your fare.<br />
<br />
If you're in a rush and don't have a card, just loiter by the electronic charging machines, offer someone 6 pesos in change, and say this: "Te puedo pagar mi pasaje? No tengo tarjeta." Which means: "Can you pay my fare? I don't have a card." They'll probably nod, in which case you wait for them to charge their card and then follow them to the turnstiles, where they'll swipe you in.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you have a card, just press your card on the screen on top of the turnstiles. If you need to fill up your card, there are two types of machines in each station: one that accepts only change and one that accepts both change and bills. The ones that accept only change are usually less busy. The trick with these machines is to rest your card on the screen and keep it there during the entire process--they are usually a little slow, so be patient.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<b>GETTING CHANGE</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
You don't need exact change for the <b>camiones,</b> <b>microbuses,</b> and <b>combis</b>. Any combo of 1, 5, or 10 peso coins is okay. In a pinch, you could also use a 20 peso bill but anything higher than that is stretching it. The bus drivers usually don't have enough time or change for 50 or 100 peso bills (and forget about 200 or 500 bills, you'll get laughed at).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Trolleybuses</b> require exact change because you have to deposit your fare in a receptacle by the driver. You can't ask the driver to give you change.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For the <b>Metrobus</b>, please see the section "How To Pay Your Fare" above.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>BUS ETIQUETTE</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Once you get into the bus, move as far back as you can. </li>
<li>Because buses can get packed, it is acceptable to do a little light pushing to get out.</li>
<li>If there are two free seats together, feel free to take either the outside or inside seat. DF bus ettiquite says that if you're there first, you get to choose what seat you want. Latecomers will have to crawl over you to get the inside seat, and that's totally okay. If someone wants to sit on the inside seat, they will probably stand by you, looking at the seat. Or they'll say "con permiso," which means "excuse me."</li>
<li>In the <b>combi</b>, people tend to be very friendly (because you're all squished into a small space). It's customary to greet everyone when getting on the bus with a "buenas dias/tardes." It's optional to repeat that salutation when you <i>get off</i> the bus. People will be happy to give you directions/help you in a combi.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b>GETTING LOST</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Getting totally lost on a bus is a rite of passage in Mexico City. Unless it's late and you're in an area with few people, you'll be fine. As soon as you realize you're lost, ask a fellow passenger for directions.<br />
<br />
The safest person to ask is an elderly senora (woman), however she likely won't speak much English. In that case, ask a younger woman who will probably have at least a bit of English.<br />
<br />
You can ask them something like: "Quiero ir a x (name cross-street, like 'Division del Norte y Rio Churubusco'). Como puedo ir?" which means, "I want to go to Division del Norte and Rio Churubusco. How do I get there?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This unfortunately requires some Spanish to understand the answer. The driver is probably going to say something like "Baja aqui/en Division del Norte y toma el camion que dice 'Tasquena'." Which means, "Get off here/at Division del Norta and take the bus that says 'Tasquena.'"<br />
<br />
<b>Things not to do:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Ask the driver for directions, unless you're a guy and on a principal route. Not to freak you out, but like in any foreign country if you look different and say you're lost, you could be taken advantage of.</li>
<li>Stay on a bus, especially a combi (van), until <i>everyone else gets off</i>. The driver might say he'll help you and get you to your destination, but instead drive you somewhere else and try to sexually assault you. This has actually happened to people.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b>If you're lost, just get off the bus and stand by a business that's open like a taco stand or corner store while you figure out your next move. </b><br />
<br />
Get data ahead of time for your smartphone so you can use <a href="http://maps.google.com/" target="_blank">Google Maps</a> to orient yourself. And definitely download <a href="https://get.uber.com/invite/hnpccue" target="_blank">Uber</a>, which is super popular and affordable in Mexico City, to rescue you if need be. Oh! Get 150 pesos off your <i>first two rides </i>with <a href="https://get.uber.com/invite/hnpccue" target="_blank">this Uber promo code</a> from my husband, Miguel (he's always the one who orders our Ubers because my smartphone is so old haha).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On the <b>Metrobus</b>, it's easy to backtrack. Just get off the bus, cross the platform and take a bus back where you came from. There are also guards at each station who can help you. Since you don't need to exit the guarded station if you get lost, you'll be safe if you lose your way.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>HOW TO GET OFF THE BUS</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>Camiones</b> and <b>microbuses</b> have buttons above or near the back door. Press it when approaching your destination, and the driver will stop at the next corner (or thereabouts). Your stop doesn't need to be a bus shelter, it can be any street corner you want.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Same deal with <b>trolleybuses, </b>except you can only get off at dedicated bus shelters.<br />
<br />
With <b>combis</b>, you have to tell the driver when you want to get off (see How To Pay Your Fare for more details).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Metrobuses</b> have their own stops. The doors open, you get off, case closed.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Getting off a crowded bus in Mexico City is a bit of an art. The key is planning. I try to always sit near the back as close to the back door as possible. If I'm getting off soon or I know the bus is going to get super crowded, I <i>stand</i> right by the door.<br />
<br />
If you're sitting somewhere and the bus gets hella-crowded, start making your way to the door as soon in advance as you can. A polite "con permiso" to your seat mate or whoever happens to be in front of you will clear the way immediately. People are generally very accommodating to your need to get by.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you get to the exit and there's still someone standing in front of you, ask: "Vas a bajar en la siguente?" which means "are you getting off at the next station?" If they say no, they will move to let you by. If they say yes, then wait behind them.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>SAFETY</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
I dealt with this topic briefly in the "Getting Lost" section. Buses in Mexico City are generally very safe but as in any big city, shit can go down.<br />
<br />
Here are some tips to stay safe:<br />
<ul>
<li>Keep your purse/bag close and in front of you. </li>
<li>Don't put your phone/wallet in your back pocket.</li>
<li>Don't travel with your passport. If you <i>have</i> to bring it, buy a travel pouch to put around your waist.</li>
<li>Don't tell the driver you're lost.</li>
<li>Don't travel at night until you're familiar with the city.</li>
<li>Don't be the last person on the bus.</li>
<li>The first car of the Metrobus is for women only. Usually the seats are pink (haha) and there are guards at the stations to enforce this rule. I've never been touched on public transit but it happens. </li>
<li>Try not to take the bus in the less-safe fringe cities of Neza, Iztapalapa etc. There's a higher occurrence of assault and robbery in these zones. Take an Uber or the subway if there's a station close to your destination (you don't want to be walking too much).</li>
</ul>
</div>
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li>Get $25 in Airbnb credit if you sign up <a href="http://www.airbnb.ca/c/bkienapple" target="_blank">using this link</a>. There are some great Airbnbs to stay at in Mexico City.</li>
<li>Get 150 MXN (or your local equivalent) on your first two Uber rides <a href="https://get.uber.com/invite/hnpccue" target="_blank">by using this link</a> (thanks to my husband, Miguel). Uber is a great way to get rescued if you get lost on the bus.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Do you like taking the bus in Mexico City? What's been your experience so far? Have any more questions for me? Comment below!</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-41838942351105569422016-07-20T15:06:00.001-04:002016-07-20T15:16:01.423-04:00How To Teach ESL: Books To Buy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFl_Svhs9i28ZDlZF7pyQaE8xShgYRe-95jTPeiz8JG3ZXXHwPt0PI-448vqOjkqP0WtsJAiAQJ87KcmXEISX1l-uSd5We2Hx7cv9BpHem6ImztumvI6wo8enkmLs9oX27W5d1lYwDAH5/s1600/CMA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFl_Svhs9i28ZDlZF7pyQaE8xShgYRe-95jTPeiz8JG3ZXXHwPt0PI-448vqOjkqP0WtsJAiAQJ87KcmXEISX1l-uSd5We2Hx7cv9BpHem6ImztumvI6wo8enkmLs9oX27W5d1lYwDAH5/s640/CMA.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, my parents (haha), and my students in Mexico City.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Teaching ESL is often the only job option for foreigners in Mexico City, or elsewhere in the world. And if you don't have a TESL certificate, it can be hard to know exactly <i>how</i> to teach your students. You can <i>speak</i> English, but you realize that <i>teaching</i> the language is a whole other ball game.<span class="dropcap"></span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've been teaching English as a Second Language in Mexico City for four years and I learned the hard way<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.2px;">—</span>by myself<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.2px;">—</span> how to provide fun and productive classes for my students and become an ESL professional.<br />
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</div>
<div>
That's why I'm starting a series on <b>teaching <i>yourself</i> how to teach ESL</b> ... so you don't have to suffer like I did.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
In the first installment in this series, I'm listing all the books that will make your life 100% easier. Don't spend hours making your own lesson plans, there are already tons of books out there that are thorough, effective, and actually fun. You can always add or subtract material as you like, but having a book keeps you focused and on track in your teaching.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>BOOKS</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/29VdNRk" target="_blank">Market Leader</a> by the Financial Times. If you're teaching business English, this series is ESSENTIAL. I typically use the lower intermediate, upper intermediate, and advanced books. A beautiful mix of grammar, listening, speaking, and vocabulary exercises in each unit.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/2a9xIA7" target="_blank">50 Common Errors</a>. If your students repeatedly make the same mistakes, this book is sure to have lesson plans and exercises to fix them.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/2auSTue" target="_blank">American Accent Training</a>. A whiz of a book that's perfect for advanced students who already have excellent vocabulary and speaking skills. Take your time to review the lessons in-depth before class because the techniques will be totally new to you. Guaranteed to impress even the snobbiest student.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/2a9ymxK" target="_blank">Interchange</a>. Looking for books to teach beginners or kids? This series starts with the most basic of basics and moves up. Perfect for getting new students to an intermediate level and preparing them for the Market Leader series, if desired.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Where do you buy them? I've included the links to Amazon. You can buy some of these books at the <a href="http://www.gandhi.com.mx/" target="_blank">Gandhi bookstore chain</a> in Mexico. You can also torrent these suckers but, yeah, it's illegal and all that jazz.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Up next: ESL websites with lesson plans and activities to supplement your books. Stay tuned!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<b>What ESL books do you like to use with your students? Any questions for me or the community about ESL teaching? Comment below!</b></div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-84852264109975488702016-06-17T15:36:00.003-04:002016-06-17T15:38:47.898-04:00Things I'll Miss About MexicoSo! Our flight back to Toronto's officially booked for August 9th and we're madly planning for the move from Mexico City (also called DF). <span class="dropcap"> </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Of course, I've been getting nostalgic and thinking over all the things I'll miss/won't miss about Mexico City, and some of things I've missed/really haven't missed about my hometown of Toronto, Canada.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Mexico City Miss List</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><b>Street food</b>. Toronto has no idea what street food is. My waist line will thank me, though.</li>
<li><b>Laissez-faire rules</b>. Drinking in cars? Okay. Sitting in the back of a pickup truck? Okay. Jaywalking? Okay. Overstaying your tourist visa? Okay. Flagging down a bus where ever you darn well want? Fine.</li>
<li><b>Affordable and accessible public transport</b>. The city has an incredibly safe and well-connected transit system that's decently maintained and costs pennies. Just don't use it at rush hour. </li>
<li><b>Year round spring weather</b>. I am not prepared for Canadian winter again.</li>
<li>T<b>he ease of finding part-time work</b>. If I need cash, I can always find another English class to fill the gap. And the per hour rate is better than minimum wage in Canada (about $12/hr).</li>
<li><b>La Comer grocery store</b>. The best grocery store in human history. Maybe even better than Superstore.</li>
<li><b>Easy day/weekend trips</b>. Mexico City has a major bus depot at every cardinal point and bus fare is affordable. Plus there are tons of getaways super close--mountains, forest, lakes, colonial towns, you name it.</li>
<li><b>Spanish</b>. I love the constant opportunity to practice.</li>
<li><b>Tamales oaxaquenos</b>. Every chilango knows the "tamales oaxaqueno" cart that trolls the streets with its distinct call.</li>
<li><b>Outdoor cafe culture year round</b>.</li>
<li><b>Starbucks</b>. Mexican Starbucks are palatial spaces perfect for freelancers. They have swagger, these Starbucks. And valet parking. ALSO CHURROS FRAPPS.</li>
<li><b>Public spaces</b>. There are fewer restrictions on public space, meaning people can congregate in squares, parks, etc. without getting permits.</li>
<li><b>All the bookstores</b>. They're fairly unaffordable, but nice to browse.</li>
<li><b>History</b>. Thousand year old pyramid? Check. Frida Kahlo's house? Check. Giant stone cathedral? Check. Toronto is such a new city compared to DF.</li>
<li><b>Uber</b>. Affordable. Everywhere. Excellent service.</li>
<li><b>Cheap cabs</b>. And relatively safe.</li>
<li><b>Not paying taxes</b>.</li>
<li><b>Grocery baggers</b>. In DF, retired folks pack your bags for you for tips at grocery stores. And yes, they will pack your cloth bags too. They always seem to be having a good time meeting other people and chatting with the cashier. Better than sitting at home by far.</li>
<li><b>The manners</b>. People always say "good morning" or "good afternoon" to you when you enter a shop. Nobody freaks out if you accidentally bump into them on the subway or even if you have to full-on body check them to get out of a packed car. People kiss you hello and goodbye. Mexicans have impeccable manners and, interestingly enough, people from bad neighborhoods have <i>extra</i> good manners.</li>
<li><b>The humor</b>. Mexicans, generally, are a good-humored, light-hearted bunch. In a city of 23+ million, that type of temperment isn't just a nice-to-have, it's essential.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b>Mexico City Will Not Miss List</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><b>Cat callers</b>. STFU.</li>
<li><b>The pollution</b>. Actually, I barely notice it but other people are more sensitive to it than I am and complain of getting sick.</li>
<li>Trying to make friends with Mexicans who are too busy and have their own lives.</li>
<li><b>The organ guys </b>on street corners. I HATE IT.</li>
<li><b>Mexican parties that last 12 hours</b>. My introvert self cannot handle it.</li>
<li><b>Bills</b>. If you don't pay, utilities companies will shut off your service the day after or <i>even the day of</i>.</li>
<li><b>Over-helpful sales people</b>. There is no shopping in peace. This is one Canadian thing I can't get over: <i>I want to be left alone when I shop. I don't want help. I don't want to talk to anyone. Please stop trying to help me.</i></li>
<li><b>Cops demanding bribes</b> ... by stopping cars with outlandish excuses. I don't drive much but for people who actually has cars this must be a constant headache.</li>
<li><b>People calling me "brownie." </b>No one can pronounce my name here.</li>
<li>The constant reports of corruption and murder.</li>
<li>People calling me "cold." I love the Mexican warm-heartedness, but that's not the only way to be.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b>Toronto Miss List</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><b>Free health care</b>. Never had I contemplated before the luxury of having a family doctor who knows your medical history and actually calls you to check up on you AND YOU PAY NOTHING. Not to mention free mental health counseling. Never ever will I take this for granted again.</li>
<li><b>Shopper's Drug Mart</b>. Translate this to Walgreens or Ulta or whatever for you Americans. In Mexico, there are either beauty stores or pharmacies. There is no wonderland that mixes both things, and sales are few. SDM is a paradise of vitamins and hair products and makeup and snacks and there are CRAZY ASS sales. I miss my 2 for $5 conditioner deals.</li>
<li><b>Health food stores</b>. My inner hipster needs quinoa.</li>
<li><b>A waterfront</b>. Mexico City has Lake Chapultapec. Not the same.</li>
<li>P<b>eople who are not Mexicans</b>. Mexico City is diversifying, but it is still very Mexican.</li>
<li><b>Brunch</b>. But not the long line-ups.</li>
<li><b>The library system</b>. Oh lordy. The book selection, the working space, the generous holds allowance, the proliferation of locations.</li>
<li>Having <b>legal status</b> that gives me tax benefits, ability to work anywhere, health care, etc.</li>
<li><b>The gay community</b>.</li>
<li>The variety of <b>peanut and almond butter </b>you can buy. Mexico is not a nut-butter-eating culture. You're losing out, Mexico.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b>Toronto Have NOT Missed List</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>People who think evil condo developments/sushi-burrito-waffle-ice-cream-tacos/and other irrelevant stuff is the be all and end all of existence.</li>
<li>That people can't stand PDA. Mexicans are all about PDA. Babies are being made on the streets daily. I love it. Honestly, what's wrong with people liking each other in public? The world's a cold enough place.</li>
<li>The high cost of rent</li>
<li>The high cost of living</li>
<li>The high cost of transport</li>
<li>The high cost of breathing</li>
<li>The surly service. Get over yourselves, hipster baristas.</li>
<li>Men kidnapping women in vans at night (no joke). Sexual violence is more of an issue in Toronto than Mexico City.</li>
<li>White people who don't have non-white friends in the most multicultural city on earth (I need to be better at this too).</li>
<li>Compared to Mexico City, Toronto is ugly. Sorry Toronto. Spanish colonialism, while really bad for the Aztecs and other native populations, did leave some very nice architecture.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>What are your favorite things about Mexico City? What do you miss about home (wherever you are)?</b></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-22128634917085509042016-05-06T12:31:00.003-04:002016-05-06T12:34:40.271-04:00When You Don't Want To Go Back To Where You Came From<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwjxKHO2KhMXguyKyjEkPEfVz2-h-YACyA53sdS8344GoWQgoW5za2Ege4s16-pQDwGxE6OIl918cCi8ZeTpYdg_6ahXeLBziKRl8BDVFRXxU6WHUdehuLTJ_iNhnHDD8bwIr9WQq3vgKw/s1600/IMG_6421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwjxKHO2KhMXguyKyjEkPEfVz2-h-YACyA53sdS8344GoWQgoW5za2Ege4s16-pQDwGxE6OIl918cCi8ZeTpYdg_6ahXeLBziKRl8BDVFRXxU6WHUdehuLTJ_iNhnHDD8bwIr9WQq3vgKw/s640/IMG_6421.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, on my ever-continuing quest to look Toronto-cool</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For the first year or two of living in Mexico City, all I wanted to do was go back to Canada. I struggled with making friends, with adapting to the culture and learning to speak the language.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div>
I liked Mexico. I liked the food and my new boyfriend Miguel and the freedom of being able to pursue my writing in a much more affordable city where a few ESL classes could free me from financial worries. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I appreciated the fact that I'd been able to pick up and move to a totally different place, to experience living in a different country, just like I'd always wanted to do. I'd achieved something big, something good.<span class="dropcap"> </span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But that didn't stop me from longing for my built-in community in Toronto. I mean, I was a transplant there too from Nova Scotia, an eastern province in Canada. I'd already fought like the dickens to make friends, build a professional community, feel at home in the city. It seemed more than crazy to give that all up.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1LlsiAU1Sz-_S7QmSbdT6WdRB2C1QdmVMBIWqrT3Ok8W-vTBnXussNv8odztkPR95cFGwg2D3W1S9CB08VrF22HHmXQslBLdk3Jthk7zLQN9xY1PlNff1aNClYOK4eu0wAPg8EF5gmyZ/s1600/IMG_0217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1LlsiAU1Sz-_S7QmSbdT6WdRB2C1QdmVMBIWqrT3Ok8W-vTBnXussNv8odztkPR95cFGwg2D3W1S9CB08VrF22HHmXQslBLdk3Jthk7zLQN9xY1PlNff1aNClYOK4eu0wAPg8EF5gmyZ/s640/IMG_0217.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I miss the random stuff I used to get up as part of my job at Penguin Canada. This was a book launch for a teen novel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Flash-forward to almost four years later after moving to Mexico City. My husband and I are now planning on moving back to Canada. I want to begin the process of getting him permanent residency so we'll have no problem getting him into Canada in the future.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My husband also has dreams of opening a Mexican restaurant, or being otherwise involved in the burgeoning Mexican food scene in Toronto. As a charismatic guy with a real talent for making connections and impeccable knowledge of the cuisine, I think he could make a real go of it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But what about my reasons for going back? I feel like I should and yet inexplicably, suddenly, I feel immense resistance to returning to my proverbial home.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
First, I really feel like I should have health care. I'm thirty-two and so far have lived in Mexico without health insurance. I'm blessed with physical health and any mental health problems have been tackled with a combo of cheap talk therapy, expensive (and rare) visits to a psychiatrist, and an ongoing diet of Prozac.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But, part of me wonders if I shouldn't have more access to preventative health care. That I should have a family doctor who's responsible for monitoring my ongoing health and who knows my history.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Second, I feel like I should be a fucking adult already. Okay, let me explain. Being in Mexico as an expat, at least for me, is kind of like thinking of adulthood as a big fluffy bed that you just jump up and down on while cackling with glee.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Your rent is cheap. You don't need to get an office job. You can hire a cleaning lady. There are a million places to stuff yourself with the best food you've ever had and more alcohol than you ever need. Your schedule is flexible and inevitably you make friends with other expats with limited responsibilities and lots of time.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbpw7O-STuAGJnS141nmFcCP9YB6Pq_MkZE1sQgUrMqYB_cZQxTVlWevge1UNszjQ3mMI8R9pXx7TykiRIjQ9s69Dl678Ye-vAgdTAvtAPatyKuRU3LbgSesSOfyOLfjs5YEaZwtIxP02/s1600/IMG_6379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbpw7O-STuAGJnS141nmFcCP9YB6Pq_MkZE1sQgUrMqYB_cZQxTVlWevge1UNszjQ3mMI8R9pXx7TykiRIjQ9s69Dl678Ye-vAgdTAvtAPatyKuRU3LbgSesSOfyOLfjs5YEaZwtIxP02/s640/IMG_6379.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adulting as hard as we can. With my husband Miguel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Not to say that I've pissed away the last four years drinking beer and napping the day away. I built first a freelance writing business and then my very own fiction writing business, where I self-publish books under three names in three genres for profit on Amazon.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd have never had the opportunity to do this in expensive Toronto, where the pressure to take a day job to pay the bills is much stronger.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Is it that? That I'm afraid that the independence I've cultivated in DF will be robbed from me in Toronto? That I'll be constantly worried about money again, forced to take part-time office work, left with less time and energy to build my writing business?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Am I afraid to going back, as if this represents a return to normalcy (Which is exactly why I left in the first place ... I don't want to live a normal life)? That I'll fall back into the same routines, the same life? And with travel restrictions on visa applicants, we'd have to stay in Canada for a while. No vagabonding.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I want to see Miguel experience life in Canada. That'll be gratifying all in itself. And I know he'll force me to see more of the country and do new things. But me? Eh, been there done that.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZciynDhzCutH5708GuucPvvG-PMVR61J_EWD97YECDZPS_9unEekvkDqJUVyWXU3JuV4FzTQkbIQaga9PTTZ82_IQ2aTQ8m6C7ji4Z4B8w5D8XwNUCC1fETELOcHfXkt6oWiiCOH9VMO/s1600/IMG_3120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZciynDhzCutH5708GuucPvvG-PMVR61J_EWD97YECDZPS_9unEekvkDqJUVyWXU3JuV4FzTQkbIQaga9PTTZ82_IQ2aTQ8m6C7ji4Z4B8w5D8XwNUCC1fETELOcHfXkt6oWiiCOH9VMO/s640/IMG_3120.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miguel in Toronto enjoying one the few snowfalls he's experienced in his life. It's November, so don't ask me why he's shirtless and wearing flip flops.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
There are options. We could move to another city. I'm studying French right now (it's a life-long goal of mine to become fluent). I'd love to live in Montreal, where incidentally life is cheaper, to work on my French. But I'd miss out on the writing community in Toronto that might be able to help with my career.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Or we could just go back for a month or two and then fuck off somewhere else. I'd love to do a long trip again, though money is a consideration. My savings aren't huge and Miguel still hasn't found a way to support himself through remote work (though we're building an erotica business that we hope will help with that).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Who knows which way the wind will blow us. All I know, is that when I moved to Mexico City I made a commitment to live a more creative life: in how I make my money, in my relationships, and in where I choose to live and what types of possessions I decide to burden myself with.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So even if we do go to Canada, and stay for a while, I doubt anything about the arrangement will be conventional.</div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>Are you struggling with the idea of returning home from expat life? Did you already do it and what happened? Share your thoughts in the comments.</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>Resources:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1s0nzv7" target="_blank">The Magic of Thinking Big</a> by David J. Schwartz. I'm reading this right now and I'm really mulling over the idea of "big" and "small" thinking.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/24BT2S4" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City</a>. The guidebook I know and trust, for those of you thinking of moving here.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1s0nZBO" target="_blank">The Snow Leopard</a> by Peter Matthiessen. Just read it and currently fueling my wanderlust. The author goes trekking into the far reaches of the Himalayas. Just as much a spiritual as a physical journey.</li>
</ul>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-89221336768472247072016-01-12T18:11:00.001-05:002016-09-14T10:49:18.323-04:00How Do I Renew My Mexico Tourist Visa?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayqjglZYMXlAml_hKNSXmcSDiFz0csgAicTEhslcwJfXIkHjV7Nr45258iBXi_58AQjyq5vozGC85DUWc4xi7BHxwVFyX81697XgqWaAEKeRcDGwK54vJw8XsF8MdlZYedPKChZBY6yqn/s1600/IMG_2638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayqjglZYMXlAml_hKNSXmcSDiFz0csgAicTEhslcwJfXIkHjV7Nr45258iBXi_58AQjyq5vozGC85DUWc4xi7BHxwVFyX81697XgqWaAEKeRcDGwK54vJw8XsF8MdlZYedPKChZBY6yqn/s640/IMG_2638.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Belize's Caye Caulker. A wonderful place to renew your visa.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Believe me, this is a question that has kept me up at night over the past three and a half years that I've lived in Mexico City.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Despite the fact that I've been here that long and even married a Mexican citizen, <b>I still have a tourist visa! </b>Why? Well, I don't want to pay for a proper visa or do the paperwork. Plus, I love the chance to travel every six months (the Mexican tourist visa is for 180 days or approximately six months).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've had absolutely no problem getting my visa renewed by leaving the country. Foreigners can essentially live in Mexico without hassle, the rules are that lax. If you want to legitimately work in the country, though, you're going to have to get a work visa.<br />
<br />
Another thing: <b>is is a myth that you can get your tourist visa renewed within Mexico. You have to leave Mexico to get a new tourist visa. You can't get a new visa or even get it extended <i>within</i> Mexico.</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
Another hot tip: <b>you can overstay your visa and pay a $35 USD fine upon exit</b>. I haven't personally tried this, an American friend told me she did it without problem. I'm trying this option right now, so I'll report back how it went. Leaving the country, even with cheap flights, can be expensive.</div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
Now that's out of the way, where can you go to renew your visa?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>1. Belize</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
God, I love Belize. You can get a cheap flight to Cancun and then take a six hour bus ride to the border. This is not a cheap or easy option, because you still need to take a bus to the border. And once you're there, you should stay 7-10 days to really experience this country. Go to Caye Caulker, Orange Walk, and San Ignacio. I've also heard that people have gone to the border and tried to return to Mexico immediately, but were denied a visa upon re-entry unless they stayed in Belize for at least 48 hours.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjrsdwOrXttn33wEBIx9cAvPZuhp9VQgisBE4KIpYDngqwQcR9U_rvnJ5fXbJlhXTE-Drlss4wJ5YSguGjweJB-GSje3cGrpT2c4ZTCValB3zsw34zaHilx04_xaCo01DtiuZ4-g2Gm3T/s1600/IMG_5681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjrsdwOrXttn33wEBIx9cAvPZuhp9VQgisBE4KIpYDngqwQcR9U_rvnJ5fXbJlhXTE-Drlss4wJ5YSguGjweJB-GSje3cGrpT2c4ZTCValB3zsw34zaHilx04_xaCo01DtiuZ4-g2Gm3T/s640/IMG_5681.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Atitlan in Guatemala is one of my favorite places in the whole world.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<b>2. Guatemala</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also a great option if you want to get some traveling in. Get a cheap flight to Tuxtla Gutierrez, then overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas an hour away. Then take a bus to the border (about three hours) and go onwards to Huehuetenango, Xela, and Lake Atitlan/Antigua if you want to. The land border at Ciudad Cuahtemoc/La Mesilla is super relaxed--though you're not going to want to spend any time in La Mesilla (on the Guatemala side). I'm not sure how long you have to stay, since I've always traveled in Guatemala for at least a week.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You could also fly into Guatemala City, though it's hard to find a good deal. I did this once and this was the only time I was questioned upon re-entry--the Mexican official asked me if I was living in the country. <b>Generally, I think land borders are more relaxed than customs at airports, especially the Belize and Guatemala borders (I can't account for the US).</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDoFiErc5SbFgDsvpS3yy7g5QSJcTPCSiMIHIw7Rq_D3xHK1MKHV51pRl41KCP6XW4WWqDbUgRsMhCoP74wRBmbX3gkVs78tJQgJW5MfUiVSAfhLxMEjzkouuG3WbaluamTKdwb3gojc6/s1600/IMG_5625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDoFiErc5SbFgDsvpS3yy7g5QSJcTPCSiMIHIw7Rq_D3xHK1MKHV51pRl41KCP6XW4WWqDbUgRsMhCoP74wRBmbX3gkVs78tJQgJW5MfUiVSAfhLxMEjzkouuG3WbaluamTKdwb3gojc6/s640/IMG_5625.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband Miguel and I love Guatemala.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<b>3. United States</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've never done this because, as a Canadian, I'd rather go to Central America than the U.S. Also, I always find it a hassle to deal with U.S. Customs whenever I have stopovers in Texas or Florida. I'd rather not tangle with American officers. Also, an American friend of mine told me she was frequently questioned, even when going home on holiday, because they thought her living in Mexico was sketchy, for whatever reason. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>This is why I've never done a U.S. border run. </i>Technically, you could get a cheap flight to Monterrey and then take a three hour bus ride to Nuevo Laredo (Laredo, Texas is on the other side). Even better would be to fly to Tijuana, because you can just walk over to San Diego. Or find a cheap flight to Miami.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
How long do you have to stay? Some reports online say you can just cross over for a couple hours and come back. Personally, I wouldn't chance it. Go to Tijuana and enjoy a weekend in San Diego.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>4. Go Home</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Potentially very expensive but after six months, why not? A very legitimate way to renew your visa.</div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>5. Other Places</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Browse <a href="http://www.kayak.com/explore/" target="_blank">Kayak Explore</a> for cheap flights to other destinations. Personally, I've always wanted to go to Colombia. Cuba is another possibility or Costa Rica. Take this opportunity to see a new country!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
**Need a place to stay while you're traveling? <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">Click this link to go to AirBnB</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and <b>get $25 USD in travel credit on me!</b>**</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1l4fZeD" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Guatemala</a>: it's what I use</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1l4gaql" target="_blank">Moon Belize</a>: I love Moon guidebooks</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
<b>What are your experiences getting a new Mexican tourist visa? Comment below!</b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-52229770198141226542015-11-16T14:57:00.001-05:002015-11-16T15:12:24.564-05:00How To Stay Safe Teaching English in Mexico City and Abroad<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40FdiBzJg8N6Vx2A33sk2c2wHlqqAJl2IyLm7_WcNh3bxcxqBDirvHZunmtG1qjo2xkMptXP_Ib2BaKIN4TFIKAyJIo-xawxr1RFZcGevCu0HmHrkslect_6bCrUgNP5OAxGcxN8voe3z/s1600/IMG_6162.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40FdiBzJg8N6Vx2A33sk2c2wHlqqAJl2IyLm7_WcNh3bxcxqBDirvHZunmtG1qjo2xkMptXP_Ib2BaKIN4TFIKAyJIo-xawxr1RFZcGevCu0HmHrkslect_6bCrUgNP5OAxGcxN8voe3z/s640/IMG_6162.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You're going to go teach WHERE?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In my opinion, not enough attention is paid to staying safe when you’re a female ESL teacher in a foreign country. My experience has specifically been in Mexico City, but you could probably apply the basic rules almost anywhere.<br />
<br />
I want to note that many ESL directors/business owners are men. And these men usually don’t understand why you’re being so cautious. They don’t fear rape and harassment like women do. That is not their lived experience. So they will be skeptical about why you, for example, don’t want to meet at their house.<br />
<br />
Fuck those guys.<br />
<br />
<b>It is so much more important to stay safe than to put some clueless man at ease</b>. Sure it may be awkward when you insist on meeting at Starbucks. He may be ticked off, thinking you’re assuming he’s a rapist.
<br />
<br />
But you know what? Any man who doesn’t understand your point of view, is not going to be a good boss. He’s not going to look out for your welfare and he’s not going to be considerate. Move on.
<br />
<br />
<b>1. Don’t Go To Someone’s House for a Job Interview</b><br />
<br />
When I first arrived to Mexico City, the owner of a small ESL business asked me to meet him at a certain address for an interview. So imagine my surprise when that address ended up being an apartment building in a semi-sketchy neighborhood. I rang the bell anyway. He came down. I asked him if this was an office building. He said it was his house. So, I just backed away, muttering excuses.<br />
<br />
He looked pissed that I just took off but you know what? Him being pissed was way better than the remote chance that something bad would happen in that apartment.
<br />
<br />
Because it could. Once his door closes on you—anything could happen.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>2. Don’t Go To Someone’s House for an ESL Lesson</b><br />
<br />
Entitled business dudes will just assume that you’d be happy to skip over to their house to give a lesson. This is a world of no. Even if a reputable school has set up the appointment, chances are they don’t know this guy at all. They may have had a 15 minute interview with him but what does that really tell you about a person?<br />
<br />
<b>There are so many other safe third spaces to have class.</b> Starbucks is ubiquitous and popular in Mexico City. Or you could visit their office. Or they could come to your apartment (if you have roommates, though this could be a risky move. I mean, now they know where you live).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXnf0_CPwuCBB1QMOzPc_D_z_Zg-3C8sopYPeQLFwirrJpixsr3McSXc4abNdf-oKcXhW_rn5fWGMv54ir0pFYVZDP-E8894vFhFbzf9ay8s-trNlbrqQ_WU9SSSuonmVw5yq4ewYKL2s/s1600/IMG_6220.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXnf0_CPwuCBB1QMOzPc_D_z_Zg-3C8sopYPeQLFwirrJpixsr3McSXc4abNdf-oKcXhW_rn5fWGMv54ir0pFYVZDP-E8894vFhFbzf9ay8s-trNlbrqQ_WU9SSSuonmVw5yq4ewYKL2s/s640/IMG_6220.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Places like Cielito (the Mexican Starbucks) are a perfectly good option for classes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some students will give you flack that they don’t have time to travel and it would be so much easier if you’d stop being a pussy and just come to their house. Well, you don’t have time to be shut up in a room with a random stranger. <i>Nobody got time for that.</i><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The only instance when I will break this rule is if the guy is recommended to me by someone I know and trust. Even then, I’m picky about this. If the guy is just an acquaintance or work colleague, I still insist on meeting someone else. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Your friend might insist that he’s “a good guy” and even get offended that you doubt them, but let’s get real—how well do they know this person? Probably not very well. Intuition that “he’s okay” is not hard fact.<br />
<br />
I don’t fuck with my safety, people.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>3. Nobody Gets To Drive You Home</b><br />
<br />
Chivalrous students may offer to drive you home, especially if they’re leaving the office. Believe me, this is super tempting because the idea of facing the DF transit system after a long class might seem worse than hell on ice skates. You might even have a good rapport with the guy and welcome the chance to chat.<br />
<br />
Here’s me being a killjoy again: <b>don’t get in that car.</b><br />
<br />
I speak from experience. I got in a car with a guy I’d just met in DF and even though nothing happened, he behaved in such a creepy way that I never made that mistake again.<br />
<br />
Probably everything is going to be fine. But what if he doesn’t drive you home? He essentially has you captive in that car. Don’t take the risk. Make a polite excuse, put in your earphones, and brave that subway.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXo9KTttasealtBIEbehC7GsQfXf70g7X81cpOgNm0uQLrJAbgGDV5ezeckLSbxG44CrNRAid285QpenhD0NoBUeft3z-4O_MX9wPoWOnk7Icj4o15_slKF7gEA4WokCGwVC1brivYuBsM/s1600/IMG_5278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXo9KTttasealtBIEbehC7GsQfXf70g7X81cpOgNm0uQLrJAbgGDV5ezeckLSbxG44CrNRAid285QpenhD0NoBUeft3z-4O_MX9wPoWOnk7Icj4o15_slKF7gEA4WokCGwVC1brivYuBsM/s640/IMG_5278.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah I wouldn't want to get on that crammed subway car. But better the devil you know...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<b>4. Know Where You’re Going</b><br />
<br />
I’ve turned down a bunch of classes because the location wasn’t safe. <b>Unfortunately, an ESL boss might try to send you to a bad neighborhood at a bad time of night because they just want to make a buck off you.</b><br />
<br />
So get a second opinion. Ask a local about the neighborhood or Google it in a pinch. Make sure the transit to get there is safe. The subway/buses/Metrobus are fine in DF but some buses in Mexico State can be dicey. Make sure if it’s at night there is a safe way to walk to the location from transport.<br />
<br />
And make sure that it’s safe to walk from transport to your house at night (I learned this the hard way when I lived in El Centro in DF. I was coming back from class late and a homeless guy tried to attack me because my apartment building was on a dark, deserted side street. Man I had bad luck when I first moved here).<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>5. Boundaries</b><br />
<br />
If you’re teaching in Mexico, <b>some guys are going to treat private English lessons as a dating game</b>. It’s an easy way to get access to foreigners and many of the teachers are young women. If a student is interested in you, of course he’s going to invite you for dinner after or to go out dancing on the weekend. Accept this invitation and he’s going to assume you’re interested in him. Trust me on this.<br />
<br />
I had one creep-tastic student who would follow me after class to Subway where I’d grab a bite to eat. Uninvited. He invited me to his birthday and I stupidly went. I did invite the guy I was dating however. And you should’ve seen the student’s face when I showed up with another guy. This was not a friendly invitation.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZ33pKeKBbeyIokylJKf_3-SYX7ctNnX68hv91qs1DsTSEg6CMyfotxcvt1e3af-QtnoqnB7ShTH_7GdN7tzsDuXBhC-1Eex5BTtdH8O6_zXmPRJB1X0e9jPH7ybp6lA2ObmOpfrTOvZ1/s1600/IMG_5411.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZ33pKeKBbeyIokylJKf_3-SYX7ctNnX68hv91qs1DsTSEg6CMyfotxcvt1e3af-QtnoqnB7ShTH_7GdN7tzsDuXBhC-1Eex5BTtdH8O6_zXmPRJB1X0e9jPH7ybp6lA2ObmOpfrTOvZ1/s640/IMG_5411.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You think you're just grabbing pozole together. He thinks he's on a date</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Even if the guy is cute and you have a good rapport, if he’s significantly older he may just be interested in you as a plaything. A lot of guys with big corporate jobs may see you as a fun dalliance that can easily be ended—something they’re entitled to with all their money and big fancy job. I mean, it’s your life, but go into it with open eyes.<br />
<br />
I knew one girl who taught a guy at his house. He had an important position in an American multinational. Things got romantic and because she was really young, she fell for him hard. And because he was older and not looking for anything serious, he treated her like garbage. A world of pain ensued.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>A final note…</b><br />
<br />
Listen, I don’t mean to scare the living crap out of you. <b>Much of teaching English is fun and safe and fine</b>. You teach at an office or a school or Starbucks and you may get some creepy vibes, but mostly it’s all cash money and grammar.<br />
<br />
That said, you’re in a foreign country where you may not know many people, you don’t know who to call, and you don’t know the language/rules. And believe me, dealing with the police in a place like Mexico is an exercise in disaster, especially if your Spanish is bad. They may not believe you or not care. Really.<br />
<br />
So stay on the safe side. <b>Carry a cell phone. Let someone know where you’re going and when you should be back. </b>Ask them to call you at a certain time to check in. Don’t let your desire to please people or make money trump your safety. There is plenty of work in Mexico City, so don’t take shitty stuff that makes you feel unsafe.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://mexicocity.en.craigslist.com.mx/search/edu?" target="_blank">Craigslist Mexico</a>: the education section is a great place to find ESL jobs</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
<b>What’d you think of this post? Have any tips of your own? Comment below!</b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com91tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-12166319578050008112015-10-07T13:29:00.003-04:002015-10-07T13:30:57.969-04:00Dating In Mexico City: Everything You Need To Know<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHI136mU0K0X60j4I5X6J12pzrZwLnPhJpsLg75cg5pSRpLEYEi6C1nNBHJ1rLsLolrIjVG6YJhotc0wsdqS22JDMpOXsGYAiAV442BzaecoPeebhWwwAVvQWZn8UKPW5e23_9UA0e-s4Q/s1600/mercadodelcoyoacan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHI136mU0K0X60j4I5X6J12pzrZwLnPhJpsLg75cg5pSRpLEYEi6C1nNBHJ1rLsLolrIjVG6YJhotc0wsdqS22JDMpOXsGYAiAV442BzaecoPeebhWwwAVvQWZn8UKPW5e23_9UA0e-s4Q/s640/mercadodelcoyoacan.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband, Miguel, and I on a date in Mercado del Carmen in San Angel, Mexico City.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I recently received a reader letter about dating in Mexico City and realized I really hadn't touched on the topic. Here's a snippet of the letter:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i>
<i>"...I feel like I’m a little out of touch with all the details of expat life...One of my big preoccupations now is finding a social circle, including a 45+ dating circle! I know you are quite a bit younger, and married, but having lived in and written about Mexico for awhile, I thought I’d inquire about any insights/suggestions you may have."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yes, it has been a while since old B dated her way through Mexico City. However, since I did manage to meet and marry a Mexican man while here, I guess you could say I'm a success story? Maybe?<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Anyway, let get to it! Let's date some people!<br />
<br />
<b>Work/School</b><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Just like at home, work or school is a great place to meet people. If you're coming to DF for a job, chances are even if there's no one datable at your job, your new coworkers will know good people. If you're working at a language school, chances are there will be plenty of other single foreigners. Same deal if you're taking Spanish classes.<br />
<br />
<b>Classes or Groups</b><br />
<br />
If you're freelancing and not taking classes, look for organizations in your industry (such as a group for software programmers) or language exchange groups on sites like <a href="http://www.meetup.com/" target="_blank">Meetup.com</a>. Or sign up for Spanish classes at <a href="http://cepe.unam.mx/cepe.php?idioma=esp&tema=admision_ext" target="_blank">UNAM</a> or <a href="http://www.ihmexico.com/" target="_blank">International House</a>. Or take other language classes. <a href="http://www.alianzafrancesademexico.org.mx/" target="_blank">Alianza Francesa</a> has a wide network of French language schools in the city.<br />
<br />
Alternatively, take a dance class! You'll also find that if you go salsa dancing at places like Mama Rumba you'll find plenty of willing partners.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Teaching English</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Slightly gross but possible. I know another teacher who dated her student and I've got "I would date you" vibes from countless male students, both cute and old/disgusting/married. I can totally see this working if you guys are the same age. After all, people only tend to take classes for a limited period of time and a lot of corporate places offer classes as a perk to younger employees (if you're looking for someone younger). </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Probably not a great idea if the age gap is wide--and there's a lot of 20-something teachers and 40-something students. You're probably going to be seen less as a serious dating prospect and more as a fun play toy to be picked up and then tossed aside. So even if you have daddy (or mommy) issues, <i>please just don't go there.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxjNpC5r7Usgntsbs7UAVRZQ-1JiBi1edW76qMPDZGx-ln27WikY5UXTN2bYfaqHzeASPGMaenq2ikGQqHTCUJnrY9Fvg5xUdzcvIJM-l9BQymATIODwKi6XRc5fJosIUsoBx6iCAUwkj/s1600/datenight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxjNpC5r7Usgntsbs7UAVRZQ-1JiBi1edW76qMPDZGx-ln27WikY5UXTN2bYfaqHzeASPGMaenq2ikGQqHTCUJnrY9Fvg5xUdzcvIJM-l9BQymATIODwKi6XRc5fJosIUsoBx6iCAUwkj/s640/datenight.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miguel and I prepare to go out dancing with friends in Mexico City.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Expat Organizations/Groups</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For younger folk, <a href="https://www.couchsurfing.com/" target="_blank">Couchsurfing</a> is a great option. When I first got to DF, I met tons of guys through Couchsurfing who had drinks with me and showed me the city. None of them were specifically dates, which was nice because I got to know them as friends first. And there was only one creepy guy out of the bunch!<br />
<br />
Word to the wise, <b>never ever get in anyone's car you just met</b> (or have met only a couple of times). I did that once and while nothing bad happened, I got a seriously off vibe from this dude once I was shut up in his car. NEVER DO THIS.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Folks over thirty or forty might prefer <a href="http://www.internations.org/mexico-expats" target="_blank">InterNations</a> since it seems to attract an older crowd, both expat and Mexican. Their big parties can be a bit overwhelming so I recommend finding smaller activities, like sightseeing tours or book clubs or language exchanges to start out--this advice works well for both friends/dating. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.meetup.com/" target="_blank">Meetup.com</a> also has plenty of different groups in Mexico City. Some of the expat groups seem to cater to a younger crowd that likes to drink but more specialized interest groups, specifically ones for locals (if your Spanish is good enough), might cater better to your dating needs. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Friends of Friends</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I think that the best dating pool comes from friends of friends. So if you make an effort to make friends through Meetup, Internations, Couchsurfing, work or whatever, these friends will inevitably introduce you to their friends and a more savoury dating pool.<br />
<br />
Because honestly, a lot of Mexican guys on expat sites are just looking to hookup with foreigners. Can be a little gross. Guys, there are occasionally some Mexican ladies looking for the same thing. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Dating Websites</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I know that friends of mine have used the Plenty of Fish website and Tinder app to find dates here, with varying results. I have no personal experience with this but it can be a fast and easy way to start dating if you're new in the city.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Random People on the Street</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Actually an option. The first guy I dated in Mexico City I met at a taco stand. He was not totally my type but he did take me to a couple of great parties, and for tacos, and to a recording session of his friend's band, which were fun experiences. Also, he was totally not creepy! Yay! If you're a foreigner, people will talk to you. Enjoy it.<br />
<br />
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1j8v3r4" target="_blank">It's Not You: 27 (Wrong) Reasons You're Single</a>: to celebrate you singledom! I haven't read the actual book but I read her NYT piece the book was inspired by,</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QZy4Fc" target="_blank">The Path to Love</a>: this book by Deepak Chopra is exactly what you need if you're struggling with making relationships work.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QZyhbq" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City</a>: the guide you need to figure out how to get to all your dates.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>**Do you have a hot tip for dating in Mexico City? Success story? </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Share in the comments below!**</b></div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-36337227240360773062015-09-20T22:05:00.000-04:002015-09-20T22:10:35.688-04:00The Best Bookstores in Mexico CityI'm a writer and a huge bookworm so you can BET I know the best bookstores (and English bookstores) in Mexico City. Well, my choices are heavily skewed towards the Coyoacán area but look at this way--I'm giving you permission to take a trip to the south!<br />
<br />
Please note, <b>new books are expensive in Mexico</b>! If you're used to grabbing deals from Amazon or Barnes & Noble you will be in for sticker shock here.<span class="dropcap"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSpHGHQRp49XvGq7tsd-gi6YS_c2Rk5tbYw_v6zazTtdPcAs16o3XFbOSU7fCKvPFOfYvHM6hymi9OLiQB5p-Eexx9KWXFEnO2VMXsHTvHONOC681lwKi6LMxjciKg4H7DNeiKKrmdt3R/s1600/octaviopaz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSpHGHQRp49XvGq7tsd-gi6YS_c2Rk5tbYw_v6zazTtdPcAs16o3XFbOSU7fCKvPFOfYvHM6hymi9OLiQB5p-Eexx9KWXFEnO2VMXsHTvHONOC681lwKi6LMxjciKg4H7DNeiKKrmdt3R/s640/octaviopaz.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stunning Libreria Octavio Paz in Coyoacan.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b>English Books</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Essential for those of us who can't read in Spanish yet or are just plain lazy. I keep meaning to read more in Spanish but I get frustrated because I hate reading like a fourth grader.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyway, <b>the mecca for English books in Mexico City is <a href="http://underthevolcanobooks.com/" target="_blank">Under the Volcano Books</a> in Condesa</b>. This little used bookstore tucked inside the second floor of the American Legion features mostly literary fiction and classics, though they have a decent selection of commercial paperbacks, biographies, and children's lit too. You can pick up used paperbacks for between 40 to 100 pesos ($2.50-$6 USD)!! Cash only.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you want recently published English books, head over to <a href="http://pendulo.com/" target="_blank">El Pendulo</a> but be forewarned: new English books here are crazy, ridiculously expensive. I saw the new Harper Lee book there for something like 500 pesos ($30 USD). Only if you're feeling spendy or desperate.</div>
<div>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmsvX7uBWC9HFhaL4nxsZRgSQrTpsWzCcnzc65gYnAz1DAbZvRGyGHnq51It4ZymygeOliLhNePr66m5jQE5Pel6uxlNy4CzFbIdic9vwbxoJRZ7F8SoAa-nYh-XzZ_1lfMhWFBiy0cVP/s1600/elpendulocondesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmsvX7uBWC9HFhaL4nxsZRgSQrTpsWzCcnzc65gYnAz1DAbZvRGyGHnq51It4ZymygeOliLhNePr66m5jQE5Pel6uxlNy4CzFbIdic9vwbxoJRZ7F8SoAa-nYh-XzZ_1lfMhWFBiy0cVP/s640/elpendulocondesa.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Condesa's gorgeous El Pendulo bookstore. Check out that staircase!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.gandhi.com.mx/" target="_blank">Gandhi</a>, one of Mexico's most popular bookstore chains, has a decent number of English books--though some locations are better than others. They tend to have semi-recent commercial fiction releases, classics, and popular non-fiction titles only. I don't find their selection that inspiring.<br />
<br />
The stores by Miguel Angel Quevado subway station and Bellas Artes station both have a decent selection of books in English.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Destination Bookstores</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The aforementioned <a href="http://pendulo.com/" target="_blank">El Pendulo</a> has huge locations in Roma and Condesa with patio/terrace cafes. Browse and then sip one of their excellent lattes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/centro-cultural-bella-%C3%A9poca-m%C3%A9xico" target="_blank">Centro Cultural Bella Época</a> is in Condesa too. <b>This massive store is an architectural marvel--you'll feel like you're in a giant spaceship.</b> Comfy chairs for chilling and lots of Mexican classic and contemporary fiction (plus small sections for foreign languages like English and French). I've never bought anything but if you're looking for classic poetry or the latest local fiction, you can find it here.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/librer%C3%ADa-fondo-de-cultura-econ%C3%B3mica-octavio-paz-m%C3%A9xico" target="_blank">Octavio Paz bookstore</a> is close to Miguel Angel Quevado subway station and WOW. Just WOW. It's a giant, multi-level glass box stuffed with classic Spanish-language literature. Tends to be pricey but fun for browsing. Plus there's a Starbucks, El Jarocho coffee shop, and TWO Ghandi bookstores smashed right against it so it makes for a nice outing.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4txqP2s9vk3o9qpIOajxVeKn7zj9BwCmilwSqS2RtWI9BHbZV3JpriZLUp16ditAOsYq-tlHIM_pWzkTqYqCaEZ2W9ywQnYQCNVVX83rjiKLI2SkwGdUlAEyrCSlCzjXd9G4SdiPQIglD/s1600/centro-cultural-elena-garro_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4txqP2s9vk3o9qpIOajxVeKn7zj9BwCmilwSqS2RtWI9BHbZV3JpriZLUp16ditAOsYq-tlHIM_pWzkTqYqCaEZ2W9ywQnYQCNVVX83rjiKLI2SkwGdUlAEyrCSlCzjXd9G4SdiPQIglD/s640/centro-cultural-elena-garro_5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids lit section at Educal in Coyoacan. Book lights!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://www.educal.com.mx/librerias/34-distrito-federal/4585-coyoacan">Educal's location in Coyoacán</a> (Centro Cultural Elena Garro) is INSANE. This multi-level modern glass structure is perfect for browsing. There's a cafe with terrace too. The prices are definitely not budget-level but they have all sorts of artsy Mexican-made books plus<b> a kids' section that's simply unreal.</b></div>
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<b>Spanish-Language Bookstores Where You'd Actually Buy Something</b></div>
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My go-to bookstore for Spanish books is always <a href="http://www.elsotano.com/tiendas-sucursal-sotano-coyoacan-4" target="_blank">El Sótano</a>. The prices are decent and there's a good selection of all kinds of stuff from classic fiction, to contemporary fiction, to coloring books, to language books, to cookbooks to whatever. I frequent the store in downtown Coyoacán, mostly because it's close to me and has a good layout for browsing.<br />
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Ghandi is good too, but I find the prices better at Sotano.<br />
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<b>Screw This, I Want To Just Sit in My PJs and Buy Something on Amazon</b><br />
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I hear you, friend! I too worship at the feet of the god that is Amazon, with its free shipping and vast selection.<br />
<br />
First off, don't even bother ordering from the <a href="http://amzn.to/1LqLHxl" target="_blank">US Amazon store</a> while in Mexico. The cost of shipping combined with customs fees are insane. I ordered once from there using a gift certificate, only to find a huge portion of my allowance gobbled up by the aforementioned fees. Cue crying.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.amazon.com.mx/" target="_blank">Mexican Amazon store</a> is new and growing. Still, books on there tend to be expensive and the free shipping minimum is 599 pesos ($36 USD). Until they reduce the shipping minimum, increase their selection, and lower costs I wouldn't consider this an option. Sorry. Take off those PJs and get thee to an actual bookstore.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdj-TBxOpf_dOaZ0G3HE6Dlafz7R-WxV53noPTBwB6gA9G6G6i_u1MXtd4eHZc2hA9bzY1Dlt8cIHJb3HlzqQfa7wZ7mjlmBDS46afgj1SETnYH0BOhLF0fvxikXzI5RkuqSYxRxmQPBUC/s1600/bellaepocacondesa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdj-TBxOpf_dOaZ0G3HE6Dlafz7R-WxV53noPTBwB6gA9G6G6i_u1MXtd4eHZc2hA9bzY1Dlt8cIHJb3HlzqQfa7wZ7mjlmBDS46afgj1SETnYH0BOhLF0fvxikXzI5RkuqSYxRxmQPBUC/s640/bellaepocacondesa.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bella Epoca bookstore in Condesa feels like a giant spaceship.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>What's your favorite bookstore in Mexico City? Have any hot tips for the bookworms on here?</b><br />
<br />
<b>Books That Will Help You Find Said Bookstores:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-10419212248139353392015-08-30T20:20:00.002-04:002015-08-30T20:24:54.760-04:00What To Do In Taxco, MexicoHi guys! So I went to Taxco, Mexico recently and wanted to share a couple of photos and tips.<br />
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Taxco is about two and a half hours outside of Mexico City (in Guerrero state). It's a smallish city and is known for its bargain silver jewelry and pretty mountainside setting.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the amazing cathedral in Taxco. Sorry, my camera was being dumb.</td></tr>
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<b>Where To Stay</b></div>
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I booked through AirB&B but somehow the place ended up being a hotel? Called the Casa Grande. Central enough but the shared bathrooms were gross. I definitely would stay somewhere else.</div>
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<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">Click this link to go to AirBnB</a> and <b>get $25 USD in travel credit. </b>Then use it to go to Taxco!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzvW7IzmolRf0oiTV4M9RIl2Nf_BZ6jrKZSqZQvvrx6_4po6JzM61f3kxxFQml34lDec0BvidAjcd8g_4_BvxU7FVP5SklpGGwSABSTqeLbbgeXlOfQ2A2D-5O2ZodHL9n6U9FPurdMuX/s1600/IMG_6828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzvW7IzmolRf0oiTV4M9RIl2Nf_BZ6jrKZSqZQvvrx6_4po6JzM61f3kxxFQml34lDec0BvidAjcd8g_4_BvxU7FVP5SklpGGwSABSTqeLbbgeXlOfQ2A2D-5O2ZodHL9n6U9FPurdMuX/s640/IMG_6828.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Bar El Adobe. Close to the Casa Grande hotel.</td></tr>
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<b>Where To Eat</b></div>
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Oh maaannn. We went to <b>Pozoleria Tia Calla</b> twice it was so good! Definitely order the pozole. It comes with avocado and chicharron (friend pork skin) and is bargain-basement cheap. The <i>enchiladas suizas</i> also looked amazing.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pozole from Tia Calla.</td></tr>
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The <b>Punto del Cielo</b> cafe on the main square is a nice place to grab a cup of coffee. It has wi-fi and a little balcony that overlooks the square.</div>
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<b>Pizza Pazza</b> is a nice rooftop bar/restaurant that also overlooks the square. The pizza is soooo tasty. We had one with bacon and rajas (chili peppers) that was divine.</div>
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<b>Hosteria Bar El Adobe</b> has awful food (ugh) but it has the sweetest little balcony with a private table that overlooks a smaller square. Go for drinks.</div>
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<b>Where To Go</b></div>
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Not having any budget for jewellery, I didn't go into any of the (many) silver shops and markets. I really enjoyed just sitting in the main square with an ice cream from Tepozneives or strolling around the pretty, windy cobblestone streets. On weekends, there's salsa/cumbia <b>dancing</b> in the square (we joined in on Sunday night!).</div>
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Also, don't miss the <b>Parque Nacional Grutas de Cachuamilpa</b>. It has a mind-boggling cave that's 2 kilometers long. Just ask at the terminal on Avenida de los Plateras for the right bus. It's about a half hour trip. You'll have an option to jump in a taxi when you get off but the park is SO close and the road is downhill, I really didn't think it was worth it.</div>
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I would really try to visit the cave during the week. We went on a Tuesday and our tour group was huge enough. I can't imagine going on a Saturday! There are tours every hour. The tour itself is kind of dumb but you get to walk back by yourself and enjoy the cave solo-ish. Be sure to order one of the <b>epic micheladas </b>(beer with salsa) when you're done. You can then take a bus back to Taxco or go onwards to Cuernavaca/Mexico City. The bus stop is by a torta stand/the coco loco stands.<br />
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<b>That's it! Do you want to go to Taxco or have you been already? What did you think?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. Also has a section on Taxco. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-76194533009205302912015-05-20T08:00:00.000-04:002015-05-20T08:00:11.245-04:00A Video of Rural Mexico (Puebla State). What It's Really Like!I visited Coatzingo in May 2015 for the annual saint's fair. It's a hot place with desert-type terrain and a very traditional, old-Mexico feel. I'm sitting in the back of my in-laws' pick-up truck with my husband and one of my in-laws' employees (who somehow get coerced into coming with us).<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jPwvXl1naMY" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-16931411114420971692015-05-17T20:56:00.006-04:002015-05-18T11:31:42.926-04:00Five Tips for Dating a Mexican Man<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As a Canadian woman who married a Mexican man and stayed in Mexico City for him, I have a lot of opinions about dating Mexican men.<br />
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<b>While Mexican men have a reputation for being super macho, this is not always the case.</b> Canadian men are more politically correct on the outside perhaps, but not on the inside. A Mexican man may just up and say what a Canadian (or American or European) man is thinking. Traditional mindsets of inequality between men and women are global, my friends.<br />
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That said, here's my advice for non-Mexican women about what to expect.<br />
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<b>1. Don’t Believe Everything You Hear</b><br />
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Foreign women might be delighted by the effusiveness of Mexican men. While Western men seem unable to utter one romantic word at times, Mexican men have books of them at the ready to fling at you.<br />
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<b>This can be all very enjoyable as long as you don’t take it to mean anything.</b> Yes, while a Mexican man may say he loves you, that he’s been waiting to meet someone like you, or that he’ll follow you anywhere, please be <i>very</i> skeptical if this kind of talk occurs within the first month or week of dating.<br />
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Be especially skeptical if this follows the first date, especially a date where you didn’t sleep with him.
So here we hit the heart of the matter – all these words mean he’s very interested in having sex with you, not spending his life with you. Proceed as you will, but don’t expect him to stick around after the deed is done.<br />
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Kind of the same advice you'd hear anywhere.<br />
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<b> 2. Actions, Not Words </b><br />
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Mexican men who are actually interested in pursuing a relationship with you will follow up their effusive words with actions. This could include:<br />
<ul>
<li>Inviting you to meet their family</li>
<li>Following up after dates (via text, phone call, whatever) with further plans</li>
<li>Not cancelling dates and showing up on time</li>
<li>Speaking Spanish with you and not just using you for English practice</li>
<li>Asking you about you and not just blathering on about themselves. They should be interested in your family, friends, work, and life at home.</li>
<li>Scheduling dates that don’t just start with late drinks and end in your bedroom. This means going to markets mid-afternoon, renting bikes in the morning, and taking day trips out of the city.</li>
</ul>
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<b>3. Beware the Macho Man </b><br />
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Unless you’re into that kind of thing. Otherwise, I know I said that macho men are universal but Mexican men can be a special type of macho – a more obvious one, if you will.<br />
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Be aware that many Mexican men have been raised with macho attitudes – especially if they’re from outside of Mexico City, especially if they’re from the north of the country, especially if they’re from conservative states like Puebla.<br />
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Macho men in Mexico believe that:<br />
<ul>
<li>Women cook for men and don’t sit down to eat until the men are finished. Then the women clean up.</li>
<li>Women do the laundry, cleaning, and ironing and that is what they are for.</li>
<li>Women need to be protected from every kind of danger (they shouldn’t go out alone at night, they shouldn’t take public transport, they shouldn’t go out just with female friends, they shouldn’t leave the house period).</li>
<li>Women should not spend time with other men if they are dating someone.</li>
<li>Women must accept men’s bad behavior without complaint. This definitely includes bouts of ridiculous drunkenness. The woman tends to the man as if he is a sick baby and waits for him to get sober.</li>
<li>Women get married and have children and spend plenty of time with their husband’s family. </li>
<li><b>Men live with their parents until they get married. Then the wife takes the place of the mother's former role.</b></li>
</ul>
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Be warned that macho behavior may not manifest itself until much further on in your relationship, such as when you begin to live together. Ask questions ahead of time.</div>
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<b>4. Look for Signs of the Female-Friendly Mexican Man</b><br />
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I married a man who had no love of feminism and some engrained machismo. Why? <b>He showed a willingness to learn about my beliefs and adapt to my expectations of an equal partnership.</b> At the very least, you should see the following promising signs:<br />
<ul>
<li>He doesn’t openly ridicule women</li>
<li>He has female friends that he regards as equals</li>
<li>He treats his sister(s) and mother with respect</li>
<li>He fundamentally believes women are equals, even if he still has some macho attitudes</li>
<li>He is interested in your beliefs and opinions and while he may challenge you, he doesn’t automatically shut you down</li>
<li>He is open to your cultural differences and willing to learn about them</li>
<li>He isn’t critical of how you dress and accepts that you have the right to wear what you want.</li>
<li>He doesn’t insist that you act a certain way around his family and friends (as long as you’re not being unfairly rude). </li>
</ul>
<b>5. Proceed Slowly </b><br />
<br />
Foreign women may be in Mexico for a short or long time. Have a fling by all means but if you find yourself falling for someone, ask yourself the following questions: <b>Are you willing to stay in Mexico for a man? If so, is this the man worth staying for? </b><br />
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Proceed slowly and analyze your date for signs of trustworthiness and good character. Looks fade, sweet words fade, but character lasts forever.<br />
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<b>Staying in Mexico for someone is a major commitment, <i>as I well know</i>.</b> You have to analyze if being apart from your family and friends and changing or altering your career is worth it. Compromise is inevitable.<br />
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<b>Make sure your beloved is willing to compromise as well</b> – you shouldn’t be the only one changing your life. This may mean going to couples therapy to iron out cultural differences etc.
Or perhaps your boyfriend needs to pursue therapy of his own, commit to quitting drinking, or otherwise.<br />
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Be firm. You have needs too.
Talk with him. Does he want a long-term relationship? Is he willing to move in with you, do fifty percent of the housework, pay his half of the bills, and support your dreams? If so my dear, you may have just found true love!<br />
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<b>Post your questions and experiences in the comments section below!</b><br />
<br />
By the way, if you're looking for somewhere to stay in Mexico then <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">click this link to go to AirBnB</a> and <b>get $25 USD in travel credit</b> -- my gift to you!<br />
<br />
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com62tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-61300829025886015352015-04-20T07:00:00.000-04:002015-05-18T11:31:56.728-04:00How To Rent or Buy a House in Mexico City<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These houses in Coyoacan, Mexico City, are probably crazy expensive.</td></tr>
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Hi fellow travellers! Another reader question today, this time from Ginnie on finding houses to buy or rent in Mexico City:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Thanks for your frank and humorous posts on living in DF! My husband's being interviewed for a job close to San Mateo Tlaltenango and I'm checking out costs, housing, etc... your link is brilliant for finding rooms, but do you recommend any links for finding a house? I speak reasonable Spanish so not dependent on Craig's List!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Real Estate Websites</b><br />
<br />
My husband just started researching buying rental properties so you're in luck! He provided me with a great list of local websites you can use to find a house to rent or buy in Mexico City.</div>
<br />
1. <a href="http://www.metroscubicos.com/" target="_blank">www.metroscubicos.com</a><br />
A popular website from Mexico that specializes in real estate. You can find houses to buy or rent, as well as other types of properties. Nice layout and functionality.<br />
<br />
2. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%C2%A0http://casas.trovit.com.mx/" target="_blank">casas.trovit.com.mx</a><br />
Another popular website from Mexico that's real-estate only.<br />
<br />
3. <a href="http://www.inmuebles24.com/" target="_blank">www.inmuebles24.com</a><br />
Less popular but a viable option.<br />
<br />
4. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%C2%A0http://www.mercadolibre.com.mx/" target="_blank">www.mercadolibre.com.mx</a><br />
This massive website sells just about everything but they have a considerable real estate section too.<br />
<br />
5. <a href="http://www.segundamano.mx/" target="_blank">www.segundamano.mx</a><br />
Same idea as the above. Very popular Craigslist-like website in Mexico.<br />
<br />
6. <a href="http://www.casasinfonavit.com.mx/">www.casasinfonavit.com.mx</a><br />
This website has government properties you can buy with a credit available to Mexican citizens. An option for those of you with Mexican spouses.<br />
<br />
<div>
<b>What Neighborhoods to Consider:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><b>La Condesa</b> is expat central and perfect for young folks who like to be close to the party and upmarket retail. Leafy and safe with a great running track but potentially loud at night and filled with drunks and crazy valet parking dudes driving like maniacs. Also the rent is expensive but probably still cheaper than you're used to paying at home.</li>
<li><b>La Roma</b> (Norte and Sur) is close to La Condesa. It also has a youth vibe with plenty of cafes and bars but it's more chill. Central but tranquil. Great access to transit and nice little parks and cheaper than Condesa.</li>
<li><b>Polanco </b>is for those who want to rent a tony condo and have access to top-notch malls in a safe, tranquil neighborhood. Better for those with a car since transit access is not great and it's a bit north of the center. Also, the traffic is crazy there at rush hour and prices are high.</li>
<li><b>Escandon </b>or <b>Narvarte</b>. These neighborhoods are different (the former is south of Condesa and the latter is sort of south and east of Roma). Both are cheaper and very tranquil and residential. Good access to transit and close to downtown. Downside is that you won't get a lot of exciting retail or nightlife in either.</li>
<li><b>Coyoacan </b>is my home and my favorite. It's quite south but has good access to transit. Those who want to be close to the party in Condesa/Roma won't like it as transit in DF closes after midnight and you'll pay quite a bit to get a taxi after that. That said, it has a growing nightlife, beautiful and tranquil colonial streets, lovely cafes and cultural offerings and it's safe. My pick of the litter.</li>
</ol>
<div>
**The above section on location was taken from my blog post on <a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2015/01/finding-apartment-in-mexico-city-expat.html" target="_blank">finding an apartment in Mexico City</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>Legal Considerations</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mexperience.com/property/buying-selling-real-estate-in-mexico.php" target="_blank">Mexperience.com</a> has all the legal details and other specifics of buying a house in Mexico.<br />
<br />
By the way, if you're looking to stay somewhere in Mexico City while you're looking for a house then <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">click this link to go to AirBnB</a> and <b>get $25 USD in travel credit</b> -- my gift to you!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-70297466976604538452015-04-06T13:01:00.003-04:002015-05-18T11:32:19.058-04:00Teaching English in Mexico: Can I Work Under a Tourist Visa?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5yoNzfM9STDFYFsI_Z0qEJV7qG4zZWSnTCnecbmOLysHIktxsmPHtrYwvPa0CoMCqFF4u0n524aalbUuDUL1hmy0rund3-tatPNQcp8tgHX_X8rDb6Y2wH9BGBfFZsn_DWs74aQPTyvlU/s1600/IMG_6033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5yoNzfM9STDFYFsI_Z0qEJV7qG4zZWSnTCnecbmOLysHIktxsmPHtrYwvPa0CoMCqFF4u0n524aalbUuDUL1hmy0rund3-tatPNQcp8tgHX_X8rDb6Y2wH9BGBfFZsn_DWs74aQPTyvlU/s1600/IMG_6033.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The canals in Xochimilco. Another benefit of living and working in Mexico City!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another reader question today. Claire asks:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We understand that its possible to work/find a job under the tourist visa, but some say permits are checked and you may be deported if you fail to present one. I am not sure how accurate this is, but we'd rather not take this chance as we may find we want to settle down permanently in Mexico.
</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have NEVER heard of anyone being deported for teaching English with a tourist visa in Mexico. Many private English schools are sensitive to the fact that foreigners often don't have work visas, nor do the schools want to pay for you to get one. Instead, a small tax called <i>recibos</i> may be deducted from your paycheque in lieu of a proper visa.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
More formal institutions like high schools and universities will need you to either have a work visa already or will help you get one. If you're confused about this process, contact your local Mexican embassy for information on how to get a work visa.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Or you could simply find private English students through <a href="https://www.google.com.mx/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCkQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.segundamano.mx%2F&ei=mrwiVZilPJXtoASx3IDIAw&usg=AFQjCNGfpj0ZDHS18oCrQTo1tiAlRWNCvA&sig2=pls8HOUHNuoBGBe2Lvo4Sg&bvm=bv.89947451,d.cGU" target="_blank">Segundamano</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com.mx/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCwQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmexicocity.en.craigslist.com.mx%2F&ei=tbwiVZKmO4HcoASYwoHIBQ&usg=AFQjCNFRwiIYAc5OmsDmPrEYrlxxmySISg&sig2=KJmA8r7mg5Ijr1lojYd0QQ&bvm=bv.89947451,d.cGU" target="_blank">Craigslist</a> who will neither care if you have a visa nor deduct <i>recibos</i>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Let me say this again: <b>no one is going to be deported for teaching English on a tourist visa in Mexico.</b> You may be deported for engaging in protest activities against the government but not for teaching on a tourist visa.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I've even known people to work in offices and other non-ESL activities on tourist visas with no problem whatsoever.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The moral of this story is that, at least right now, Mexican immigration is pretty lax regarding work permits. As long as you leave every six months on your tourist visa you'll be fine.<br />
<br />
If anyone at the border asks what you've been up to, just say either you're backpacking or you work freelance. I've never received blowback from either of those responses. But then again, I'm a young blonde woman and a Canadian. Sadly, this goes a long way towards getting officials off my back.<br />
<br />
<b>Check out these resources that helped me when I moved to Mexico City:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
<div>
Moving to Mexico and need a place to crash? <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">Click here to get $25 USD credit with Air B&B</a>.</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-45561547598457864432015-03-01T16:24:00.001-05:002015-05-18T11:33:06.737-04:00Teaching English in Mexico City: What Kind of Qualifications Do I Need?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidE_TFJk5r24JRvg3mjMWFQdy6briazD6Gf1zR6xZ9IkJb5y5Y7wLv86Rd9tm1KAgrYszU93o_9m_hza5t3aSWzaQAHdZpaQS04wRfwDJJJ5o7JHmRgggd25wumGm6J6kKP7c815Ednts-/s1600/IMG_2511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidE_TFJk5r24JRvg3mjMWFQdy6briazD6Gf1zR6xZ9IkJb5y5Y7wLv86Rd9tm1KAgrYszU93o_9m_hza5t3aSWzaQAHdZpaQS04wRfwDJJJ5o7JHmRgggd25wumGm6J6kKP7c815Ednts-/s1600/IMG_2511.JPG" height="468" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finding a teaching position in Mexico City isn't hard <br />
and it allows you to visit beautiful places like Acapulco!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b>Hi guys! Another reader question today from Molly in the United States:</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I am very interested in relocating there and even though I am a hairstylist here, I am also bilingual and I was thinking that teaching ESL in Mexico City might be one way that I could potentially find work when I relocate in a few months, What do you think? I have some college but no teaching certifications, would this even be an option for me? </i></div>
<br />
The short answer is that if you look and sound foreign you will have an incredibly easy time finding ESL teaching work in Mexico City.<br />
<br />
Yes, it can be that easy. Especially if you're from Canada, the United States, South Africa, Britain, Australia or New Zealand.<br />
<br />
Now let's get into the nitty gritty.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Do I Need a TESL Certificate to Teach English in Mexico City?</b><br />
<br />
Generally, no. Most English schools don't require it nor will private students. Most ESL employers are desperate for teachers. There's a lot of stigma attached to the city and teachers aren't plentiful because of that. So you will find that employers have fewer requirements.<br />
<br />
<b>What About Previous Teaching Experience?</b><br />
<br />
In a word: no. You don't need any experience teaching anything, including English. Some English schools will hire total newbies because what they <i>really</i> want is a native speaker. They figure that they can train you to do the rest. If you have a fairly clear accent and demonstrate that you have a friendly personality and willingness to learn you should be fine.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Do I Need University Education to Teach English in Mexico City?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>A bachelor's degree (regardless of subject) will impress potential ESL employers in Mexico City. I have a degree in English Literature and even though that's not really related at all to ESL teaching, bosses and clients seem to like it.<br />
<br />
That said, I've known ESL teachers in Mexico City who only have high school or some college education. So it's not impossible. However, teaching English <i>well</i> is more difficult than it seems.<br />
<br />
If you only have high school, take a TESL course first or join an ESL school that offers training (and you should be paid for this training or at the very least it should be free).<br />
<br />
Teaching English grammar to beginners or business English to executives is tricky without some kind of training. Check out my resources section at the end of this post for courses and books that will help you.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBdWJ2Jz_GLJnZUH3BfMcfo-0w6g0aYzLnn8SAsC3CJVt77q8Ph4gPWJtzAZs3OqZPlx_LHN-UCIk6iDcWuzPzaM-QC_HP8yZ8vpZthLd2Gt0r1kTG_iWnCDiBrHFIVz5oB9vwz-1w_hq/s1600/274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBdWJ2Jz_GLJnZUH3BfMcfo-0w6g0aYzLnn8SAsC3CJVt77q8Ph4gPWJtzAZs3OqZPlx_LHN-UCIk6iDcWuzPzaM-QC_HP8yZ8vpZthLd2Gt0r1kTG_iWnCDiBrHFIVz5oB9vwz-1w_hq/s1600/274.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teaching ESL in Mexico City also gives you access to the amazing food here. <br />
Quesadilla anyone?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>OK, But Do I Need a Visa?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
For English schools and private clients (students you find online and work with directly) you only need the standard 180 day tourist visa. I'll cover this in detail in a later post.</div>
<div>
<br />
<b>I'm an ESL Teaching Newbie. Where Should I Start?</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Search Craigslist for teaching jobs and try to look for schools that have a dedicated location and training programs. As I said in <a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2015/02/teaching-english-in-mexico-city-how.html" target="_blank">a previous post</a>, chains like Harmon Hall and Interlingua pay terribly so I'd steer clear of them.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.interactmexico.com/" target="_blank">Interact</a>, <a href="http://www.beschool.com.mx/" target="_blank">BE Business English</a> and the <a href="http://www.englishworkshop.com.mx/" target="_blank">English Workshop</a> are better options. Email me and I can get you in touch with their recruiters.<br />
<br />
Teaching at a school is great for newbies because they source the clients for you, they provide the lesson plans and training and they (hopefully) provide you with steady work. Reputable schools will also pay you on time. Ask lots of questions about payment method and frequency, training and hours before you accept a position.<br />
<br />
As you get more experienced, you can put up an ad on <a href="http://segundamano.mx/" target="_blank">Segundamano</a> advertising your services as a private ESL teacher.<br />
<br />
<b>What About Public Elementary/High Schools? Can I Teach There?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
You may be able to get an elementary school gig without any qualifications. Private high schools will definitely require university education and possibly even a teaching degree.<br />
<br />
However, formal school contracts often require a proper working visa. You can apply for a work visa in your home country or ask the school to sponsor you (good luck with that!). I've never gone down this route because I prefer the flexibility of freelance English teaching.<br />
<br />
<b>ESL & TEFL Books:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1118095677/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=390961&creativeASIN=1118095677&linkCode=as2&tag=acerbenapp-20">The ESL / ELL Teacher's Survival Guide</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1118095677" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: comes highly recommended for those who don't want to pay for TEFL certification.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0838447252/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=390961&creativeASIN=0838447252&linkCode=as2&tag=acerbenapp-20">The Grammar Book: An ESL/EFL Teacher's Course</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=0838447252" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: also recommended for those who want to brush up on their grammar.</li>
</ul>
<b>TEFL Courses:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://store.onlinetefl.com/tefl-courses/i-to-i-professional-tefl-certificate-120-hours.html#4CERTS" target="_blank">i-to-i Professional TEFL Certificate</a> (120 hours): I haven't taken this course but I did a ton of research when I was thinking about getting certified and this one was highly recommended by a variety of sources.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Related Posts:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2015/02/teaching-english-in-mexico-city-how.html" target="_blank">Teaching English in Mexico City: How Much Will I Earn?</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
<b>Let me know what you think in the comments below or share your own experiences.</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Have you taught English in Mexico City before? What qualifications did you have?</li>
<li>Are you thinking of teaching English in Mexico City?</li>
<li>Post questions for me in the comments or email me directly.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-193820254363563752015-02-18T16:00:00.000-05:002015-09-07T20:53:03.979-04:00Teaching English in Mexico City: How Much Will I Earn?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVI4E_81DFUPBfJr6Gzu3U8zcn5fHUTpFnPZFuiENsB-oDGnQF8PXjqjmA2UFVwqnbA3uZKLDWXZHT3G8NHM3bA5QEE16XAVs7n0iOqOGzjQQhrRoXMpDFFGAFfCFjeXPMK4vUhUCdEVSL/s1600/IMG_2280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVI4E_81DFUPBfJr6Gzu3U8zcn5fHUTpFnPZFuiENsB-oDGnQF8PXjqjmA2UFVwqnbA3uZKLDWXZHT3G8NHM3bA5QEE16XAVs7n0iOqOGzjQQhrRoXMpDFFGAFfCFjeXPMK4vUhUCdEVSL/s1600/IMG_2280.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Factor your travel time into your hourly wage. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hey folks, it's reader question time. Bethany wrote me and asked:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My biggest question has to do with how much you can earn teaching ESL in Mexico City. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Is it possible to save money, teaching ESL in D.F.?
</i></div>
<br />
<b>The short answer is no, you can't save money teaching English in DF.</b><br />
<br />
You can certainly support yourself and make a decent living but you won't be able to pad your bank account with insane amounts of cash. If that's your goal, countries like Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Vietnam, Taiwan, China, Oman and the United Arab Emirates provide impressive teacher packages that include healthy salaries and perks.<br />
<br />
Mexico City is a better ESL option if you have one of the following goals:<br />
<ul>
<li>You don't want to move far from the United States</li>
<li>You don't have a TSL certificate or other qualifications</li>
<li>You want to live in a low-cost country with bang for your buck</li>
<li>You're interested in easy access to beaches, archeological sites and Central America</li>
<li>You want to learn/perfect your Spanish</li>
<li>You don't know what to do with your life</li>
</ul>
OK, so what can I earn?<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Chain English Schools</b><br />
<br />
I'm talking about places like Interlingua and Harmon Hall. A few teachers told me that places like this pay as low as 40 pesos an hour. This is truly atrocious. You may end up working six hour days in their office with back-to-back classes which would be really draining. Some places charge you for training while others simply don't pay you at all during that period. For these reasons I wouldn't even bother applying at these places.<br />
<br />
I worked at Interact in Polanco and I made between 80 to 100 pesos an hour at their school. It can be hard to get a robust schedule, though. You need to be around for a couple of months to rack up enough classes. They did pay me for training, though. And the payment was in cash and prompt.<br />
<br />
It was a good place to learn how to teach since I didn't have a certificate but it definitely wasn't lucrative. And a lot of teachers burned out from the early morning/late night-heavy schedule.<br />
<br />
<b>Corporate Classes</b><br />
<br />
Some language schools, such as Interact, have classes at company offices. For this I earned <b>150 pesos an hour</b>. So, much better but travel time could be a concern.<br />
<br />
<b>Contact English Work</b><br />
<br />
You'll find plenty of this type of work on Craigslist: people who find students and then hire teachers to go to their offices or homes to teach them. You're usually paid in cash or via a Mexican bank account (my husband comes in handy here). I've been paid between <b>180 to 225 pesos an hour</b>. As you can see the pay is much better. You can also get substitute classes and do consultations.<br />
<br />
However, you have to be careful about what classes you accept. Several of my bosses tried to send me to impossibly far locations. This would have been a complete waste of time. It can also be hard to get a robust schedule. You may end up juggling a couple of bosses plus some privates on the side.<br />
<br />
<b>Private Classes</b><br />
<br />
I charge on a sliding scale. If my student is strapped I charge <b>200 pesos per hour </b>for two 1.5 hour classes a week. On the higher-end, I charge <b>225-250 pesos an hour </b>for two 2 hour classes a week.<br />
<br />
Privates can be great but students come and go. Seriously, sometimes people just <i>disappear</i>. So this type of work can be really unpredictable.<br />
<br />
<div>
<b>Factor In The Travel Time</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
Your hourly rate actually depends on how long it takes you to get to a given class.<br />
<br />
Say I make 150 MXN ($11.76 USD) per hour for a 1.5 hour class. I live in the south and the class is in the north. It takes me two hours each way to reach the class (not unrealistic in DF). <b>So my real hourly rate: 56.25 MXN </b>($4.18 USD). Oh hell no.<br />
<b><br /></b>
Check out these <b>resources</b> that helped me when I moved to Mexico City:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Like this post? Check out my related posts:</div>
</div>
<ul style="text-align: start;">
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2015/01/finding-apartment-in-mexico-city-expat.html" target="_blank">Finding an Apartment in Mexico City: The Expat Edition</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2013/06/how-to-quit-your-job-and-travel.html" target="_blank">How To Quit Your Job and Travel</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2013/09/8-things-i-learned-from-living-abroad.html" target="_blank">8 Things I Learned Living Abroad for a Year</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2013/06/how-must-does-it-cost-to-live-in-mexico.html" target="_blank">How Much Does It Cost to Live in Mexico City?</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Hope this was helpful! Please post your comments or questions below.</b></div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-35704055944119722252015-02-11T18:34:00.002-05:002015-05-18T11:37:26.335-04:00Working Abroad: Ghostwriting Fiction (How I Did It and How You Can Too)<center>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_cWIVbSQWjM" style="text-align: center;" width="420"></iframe></center>
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For those of you who don't know, I'll be self-publishing my first romance fiction series in April 2015 (<a href="http://eepurl.com/bc0fP5" target="_blank">sign up for my newsletter</a> to be the first to hear about new releases).<br />
<br />
Leading up to the launch I'm producing a series of videos about my journey towards self-publishing.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I decided to include this video here because it tells you all about how I supported myself in Mexico City via ghostwriting romance fiction (in addition to my ESL teaching work).<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>For those of us who live abroad and don't have work visas or can't find work, finding jobs online can be a lifesaver.</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In the above video I tell you all about how I became a fiction ghostwriter and how you can too!</div>
<div>
<br />
Curious about my segue into self-publishing? Find me in one of these eight billion places:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bronwyn-Kienapple/" target="_blank">Facebook</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bit.ly/1D5NCmh" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.twitter.com/b_kienapple" target="_blank">Twitter</a></li>
<li><a href="http://instagram.com/eustaciavye" target="_blank">Instagram</a> (eustaciavye)</li>
</ul>
<div>
Interested in learning how to self-publish? I've found these books incredibly helpful:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeRYUh">Let's Get Digital: How To Self-Publish, And Why You Should</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=B005DC68NI" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjYPjd">Let's Get Visible: How To Get Noticed and Sell More Books</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=B00H26IFJS" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
</div>
<b>Questions? Musings? Feminist rants? Post them all in the comments below!</b></div>
<br />
Interested in moving to Mexico? Here are some resources that helped me:
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-91258172169622133292015-02-02T06:00:00.000-05:002015-05-18T11:38:56.122-04:00Mental Health Resources in Mexico for Expats<span class="dropcap"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4vjoSThOoORSXD3BS2jskHNMah31eSymi_J7GsFqAQr-QwFvhmOjws99E9W3NWTpi1cNiiVuR3Wll3yxhxGN8QXnVv8fZ5YP-ryhlh7NY6SLyr5uyqoqilULzE1oy4Bph-c9F9BINpdEd/s1600/B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4vjoSThOoORSXD3BS2jskHNMah31eSymi_J7GsFqAQr-QwFvhmOjws99E9W3NWTpi1cNiiVuR3Wll3yxhxGN8QXnVv8fZ5YP-ryhlh7NY6SLyr5uyqoqilULzE1oy4Bph-c9F9BINpdEd/s1600/B.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me in Mexico City's Zocalo. The picture says "having the time of my life." <br />
Yet my mental health journey remains undocumented by photography.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the most difficult things I found about moving from Canada to Mexico was trying to find mental health resources. I was used to having a family doctor who I could call anytime and provide referrals to services. I was also receiving free psychotherapy thanks to the Canadian health plan and seeing a psychiatrist for free. My drugs were covered by my medical plan at work.<br />
<br />
It was mental health utopia.<br />
<br />
<b>In Mexico there wasn't free therapy, medication certainly wasn't free and I wasn't sure how to find a psychiatrist. And even if I did, what about the language barrier?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Keep in mind that according to the <a href="http://www.who.int/mental_health/evidence/atlas/profiles/mex_mh_profile.pdf" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a>, mental health expenditures in Mexico only account for 0.65% of the government health department's total budget. This is not a country that has freely available and affordable mental health resources.<br />
<br />
That said, <b>I've managed to find access to resources that are reasonably priced, good quality and English speaking. </b>The situation isn't perfect but it works.<br />
<br />
I'll impart my wisdom below but first things first. Mental health maintenance is so important when you're living abroad.<b> </b>Existing conditions can be exascerbated and perfectly healthy people might become depressed or anxious due to living in newly strange and isolating circumstances.<br />
<br />
Don't wait. Get the help you need so that you can enjoy living in Mexico (or elsewhere) to the fullest.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>You deserve mental health help and support.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Onwards to the guts and innards of this post.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>How Do I Find a Psychologist or Psychiatrist?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
See the resource section below. I've listed embassy recommendations from the US and Canada. Everyone else can Google their embassy's webpage to find recommmended doctors that speak your language. If you can't find any such information don't be shy about calling your embassy. <a href="http://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/embajadas_consulados/en.html" target="_blank">Here's a list of embassies in Mexico.</a> This is important! Pick up that phone!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<b>How Much for Therapy?</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You can reasonably expect to pay about 300 MXN per session for a psychologist who normally charges about 700-800 MXN an hour. You will discuss your financial situation in the first session and how much you can pay.<br />
<br />
This is a lot of money, sadly prohibitive for the average Mexican, but it is probably much less than you would pay for private therapy in your home country. Be honest with your prospective therapist about how much you can afford.<br />
<br />
Psychiatrists don't offer discounts, in my experience, and cost about 800 MXN a session. That said, you usually only need two sessions, a consultation and then a follow-up meeting<br />
<br />
Also, don't be afraid to shop around. Different therapists have different styles. Some will rub you the wrong way and some will gel perfectly. Choose the person who will help, not hinder, healing..</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>How Often Will I Go to Therapy?</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Some therapists see you once a week, others prefer twice a week for better results. Sessions are usually 50 minutes each. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Some psychiatrists also offer counselling but if you're just consulting them about medication you'll only need an initial consultation and then the occasional follow-up. If you're really strapped for cash ask them if you can do a quick follow-up for free via phone/email.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>How Do I Get a Prescription?</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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In a pinch, <a href="http://www.fahorro.com.mx/" target="_blank">Farmacias del Ahorro</a> have a free clinic where the resident doctor may be able to prescribe medication. However, these psychicians are of dubious quality and are definitely not psychiatrists.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
You'll be much better off seeking out a qualified psychiatrist to get your prescription (see resource section below). If you already have a prescription from your doctor at home, shop around at the various pharmacies (there are tons) to find the best deal. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Beware of Mexican generic medication</b>. Some are of very shoddy quality. <a href="http://www.fahorro.com.mx/" target="_blank">Farmacias del Ahorro</a>'s generics have worked well for thus far. They certainly aren't bargains but they're a good deal cheaper than the branded version.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
In general, medication in Mexico is not affordable. If you work for a legit company or your spouse/partner does for heaven's sake take advantage of any drug plan on offer.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Help! It's an Emergency</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
In case of a mental health emergency in Mexico dial 066, 060, or 080 for assistance. Please also refer to the resource section below for hospital recommendations.<br />
<br />
Live outside Mexico? Check out<a href="http://matadornetwork.com/abroad/how-to-dial-911-around-the-world/" target="_blank"> Matador's post</a> on how to dial 911 around the world.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Resources</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/mexico-mexique/emerge-urgence/med.aspx?lang=eng" target="_blank">Doctors and Hospitals in Mexico</a>, a list that includes psychologists recommended by the Canadian government.</li>
<li><a href="http://photos.state.gov/libraries/mexico/1123894/arevaloya_001/HOSPITALS.pdf" target="_blank">Hospitals in Mexico City</a>, the US Embassy's list of approved hospitals. Includes free/cheap hospitals (in case of a mental health emergency), a psychiatric hospital and a counselling service.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/embajadas_consulados/en.html" target="_blank">List of embassies in Mexico.</a></li>
<li><a href="mailto:lauref75@hotmail.com" target="_blank">Laura Elena Ferron-Martinez</a> in Mexico City is a superior <b>psychologist </b>with good English. She's located in Condesa and offers a flexible hourly rate.</li>
<li><a href="mailto:prevea@hotmail.com" target="_blank">Sharon Blanco</a> in Mexico City was my <b>psychologist </b>for over a year. She has excellent English, is located in Roma Norte and has a flexible hourly rate. <b>Does Skype sessions worldwide</b>.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Stay tuned for a post on other affordable mental health resources in Mexico, such as meditation groups, and tips on how to keep your head above water in a foreign country.</div>
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<b>Was this post helpful? Do you know of any great mental health resources in Mexico? Have a story you'd like to share? Comment below!</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
** Disclaimer: this post does not constitute medical advice. I am not a medical professional and can only provide personal experience. Please seek out a physician for advice. **<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Like this post? Please share it or check out my related posts:</div>
</div>
<ul style="text-align: start;">
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2015/01/finding-apartment-in-mexico-city-expat.html" target="_blank">Finding an Apartment in Mexico City: The Expat Edition</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2013/06/how-to-quit-your-job-and-travel.html" target="_blank">How To Quit Your Job and Travel</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2013/09/8-things-i-learned-from-living-abroad.html" target="_blank">8 Things I Learned Living Abroad for a Year</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.acertainbentappeal.com/2013/06/how-must-does-it-cost-to-live-in-mexico.html" target="_blank">How Much Does It Cost to Live in Mexico City?</a></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Travel Resources:</b></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-16229137967439432002015-01-26T06:00:00.000-05:002015-09-23T20:21:35.532-04:00Finding an Apartment in Mexico City: The Expat Edition<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv9KiIRtN51o3PA9sWrboeQSGSw_Q_fvLJ-LnVrR7IV_JukfVuhg2GA4gXZF7StLK0SFwCHc0Z6UoJRuVUIw2XfiZh6R9XtbSgmJl0Wbtd-d1kmO8eZtIw-l333BDaAenstWIGWOr0qx4J/s1600/20140609_141419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv9KiIRtN51o3PA9sWrboeQSGSw_Q_fvLJ-LnVrR7IV_JukfVuhg2GA4gXZF7StLK0SFwCHc0Z6UoJRuVUIw2XfiZh6R9XtbSgmJl0Wbtd-d1kmO8eZtIw-l333BDaAenstWIGWOr0qx4J/s1600/20140609_141419.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our gorgeous furnished two-bedroom apartment in Coyoacan. Yay!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This week I hosted my first <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1">Air B&B</a> guest in our studio (and if you're interested in booking with us, well, mosey along to <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/4134471" target="_blank">the listing</a> and then <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">click here</a> for travel credit). She was in town for a job interview and <b>had a lot of questions about how to find an apartment in Mexico City and where she should live</b>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I realized that a lot of expats probably have the same questions and since I've lived everywhere in this crazy city, I thought I'd share my collected wisdom. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But first, <b>where I've lived in Mexico City over the past two years</b>:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>A sad collection of rooms with a shared bathroom and no kitchen in <b>Zona Rosa</b> (the worst).</li>
<li>A shared apartment south of Izazaga in <b>El Centro</b>. The woman who was renting a room because her French boyfriend, who was at least 30 years older than her, had gone back to France for cancer treatment. Also sad. Also, a homeless guy tried to push his way into the entrance with me. However, the cat was super cute.</li>
<li>A massive house in <b>Escandon </b>(south of Condesa) that had at least eight occupants, a closet that held Couchsurfers, a terranium with turtles and massive, endless rooms.</li>
<li>A little apartment in <b>Narvarte </b>that was safe and cute, though the floor boards had a way of giving out when I did strenuous exercise.</li>
<li>A gorgeous furnished apartment in <b>Coyoacan </b>with plenty of light, tube gas, combo wash-dryer and a location next to an amazing supermarket. THE BEST.</li>
</ol>
<div>
I'm giving you the lowdown on my housing history because where you live in DF can really make or break your experience here. Some apartments are nasty and unsafe and some are gorgeous and overpriced and then there's everything in between.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Where to find an apartment:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><a href="http://mexicocity.en.craigslist.com.mx/" target="_blank">Craigslist</a> is a popular source of expat-oriented, expensive listings.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.segundamano.mx/distrito-federal?ca=11_s&w=111" target="_blank">Segundamano</a> is also popular and geared towards Mexicans so you're more likely to find a fair price.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.compartodepa.com.mx/" target="_blank">CompartoDepa</a> is where you go if you want to find a room in a shared apartment. Bargains abound.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">AirBnB</a>. I actually found my first real apartment here. The woman rented the space in six-month increments. By the way, <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">clicking this link</a> will earn you $25 USD in free travel credit with AirBnB. Woot!</li>
</ol>
<div>
<b>What neighborhoods to consider:</b></div>
</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><b>La Condesa</b> is expat central and perfect for young folks who like to be close to the party and upmarket retail. Leafy and safe with a great running track but potentially loud at night and filled with drunks and crazy valet parking dudes driving like maniacs. Also the rent is expensive but probably still cheaper than you're used to paying at home.</li>
<li><b>La Roma</b> (Norte and Sur) is close to La Condesa. It also has a youth vibe with plenty of cafes and bars but it's more chill. Central but tranquil. Great access to transit and nice little parks and cheaper than Condesa.</li>
<li><b>Polanco </b>is for those who want to rent a tony condo and have access to top-notch malls in a safe, tranquil neighborhood. Better for those with a car since transit access is not great and it's a bit north of the center. Also, the traffic is crazy there at rush hour and prices are high.</li>
<li><b>Escandon </b>or <b>Narvarte</b>. These neighborhoods are different (the former is south of Condesa and the latter is sort of south and east of Roma). Both are cheaper and very tranquil and residential. Good access to transit and close to downtown. Downside is that you won't get a lot of exciting retail or nightlife in either.</li>
<li><b>Coyoacan </b>is my home and my favorite. It's quite south but has good access to transit. Those who want to be close to the party in Condesa/Roma won't like it as transit in DF closes after midnight and you'll pay quite a bit to get a taxi after that. That said, it has a growing nightlife, beautiful and tranquil colonial streets, lovely cafes and cultural offerings and it's safe. My pick of the litter.</li>
</ol>
<div>
<b>Cost?</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
This really depends. I've paid about <b>2500 to 3500 MXN to rent a room</b> but you get what you pay for -- a ton of roommates or a less than savory location. Look to pay <b>5000 MXN</b> and up for a room in a nice apartment in a decent area. Think 7000 and up in Condesa. Some places will ask you to pay in USD. I think this is a ridiculous but it's up to you.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTwLhk-0zAQgcD5Lz7BAqqG5AqW3AW8QnrrhBwMBB-XTwxMP6AOcbAy3dke-rwtT68YTE5pXHlJYm-lGdc0ltztp0UMvTDXUR0M7VW1m90Xgfu5MKC6LG7WH05zDMYYNCrnCojA5SCWDAI/s1600/IMG_6074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTwLhk-0zAQgcD5Lz7BAqqG5AqW3AW8QnrrhBwMBB-XTwxMP6AOcbAy3dke-rwtT68YTE5pXHlJYm-lGdc0ltztp0UMvTDXUR0M7VW1m90Xgfu5MKC6LG7WH05zDMYYNCrnCojA5SCWDAI/s1600/IMG_6074.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">Air B&B</a> space! We're getting a real bed soon. <br />
This is completely promotional but yes, <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/4134471" target="_blank">stay with us</a>! I will make you amazing smoothies! ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>What am I paying for?</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some apartments are all-included, like anywhere. Many more ask you to pay for gas,water, electricity and maybe Internet extra. Make sure to ask what's included and the average bill per month for services.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>What questions should I ask a potential landlord/roommate?</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>What's the security like in the building?</li>
<li>Are services included or extra? How much? Is there wi-fi?</li>
<li>What's the area like at night? You don't want to live in a commercial area that's deserted after dark.</li>
<li>What are the neighbors like? Is there a lot of street noise?</li>
<li>What kind of public transit is nearby? Or is parking included for my car?</li>
<li>Who is the landlord and what kind of repairs can I expect?</li>
<li>Is there laundry? If there's no dryer (dryers are not common in Mexico), is there a space to hang my clothes?</li>
<li>Does the apartment come furnished? Is the kitchen equipped?</li>
<li>Is there gas tubing or will I have to buy gas (in canisters from a delivery man)?</li>
<li>What about garbage pick-up? Will I have to pay for pick-up or is it included? Is there organics and recycling pick-up? Not all colonias (neighborhoods) have great municipal services.</li>
<li>Re: roommates what are your typical daily routines? Is there a cleaning schedule? Do you have people over/parties often? What kind of roommate are you looking for?</li>
</ol>
</div>
<div>
<b>Questions? Advice? Please post them in the comments below! I'll be happy to answer any queries so go ahead and send in your question.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Resources:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.airbnb.com/c/bkienapple?s=4&i=1" target="_blank">AirBnB</a>: clicking the link will earn you $25 USD in travel credit!</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-27495691661842708552014-12-02T06:00:00.000-05:002014-12-02T19:26:57.134-05:008 Days in Guatemala: My Nightmare Trip and What I Learned<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzqEy33M61dHcp93uLbfYoLhYcfGyAtC7-2bppfbGwfi7XhPUZw_aIFb2oHCWMWZuDxpJN8a47_e9dxCxwi-o8APePlJeItiCSRJ5ZFKlJ3QJaw5OU8QWCs3Vig8JRJz0HvwDg9B_Pd6s/s1600/chicken+bus+guatemala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzqEy33M61dHcp93uLbfYoLhYcfGyAtC7-2bppfbGwfi7XhPUZw_aIFb2oHCWMWZuDxpJN8a47_e9dxCxwi-o8APePlJeItiCSRJ5ZFKlJ3QJaw5OU8QWCs3Vig8JRJz0HvwDg9B_Pd6s/s1600/chicken+bus+guatemala.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me at the beginning of the trip, loving the chicken bus. I still love the chicken bus, actually.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is a post about doing too much on a trip with too little time. Prepare yourself for a sequence of disaster scenarios which involve blocked credit cards, being shoved off a bus because you can't pay for it, and hours on a cramped bus with your almost husband where you both wish the other was dead, or at least made of 100 dollar bills.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let us begin.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>It was a simple concept: I needed to renew my six month Mexican visa.</b> A flight to Chiapas from Mexico City was reasonably priced while a direct flight to Guatemala City certainly was not. How hard would it be to simply take a bus across the border and see a few things? In eight days? And also call it your honeymoon even though you're not even married yet? And do it without a budget and much cash at all?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh boy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
First, let's take a little look at <b>the transportation we took from November 22-30</b>, so about eight days:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Planes: 2</div>
Chicken buses: 6 (but felt like 1000) <span class="dropcap"> </span><br />
<div>
Ferries: 4</div>
<div>
Tuk Tuks: 2</div>
<div>
Taxis: 4</div>
<div>
Minibuses/vans: 8</div>
<div>
Regular buses: 3</div>
<div>
Cars: 1 (on a tour)</div>
<div>
Subways: 2</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Places visited:</b><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico: 2 nights (the first and last night of the trip)</div>
<div>
Huehuetenango, Guatemala: 1 night</div>
<div>
Quetzaltenango, Gautemala: 3 nights (exhausted)</div>
<div>
Lago Atitlan, Guatemala: 2 nights (please I never want to see another bus again)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Lessons Learned:</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Book Your Flights With Sanity in Mind</b></div>
<div>
Flying in and out of the same place when you are traveling far from your original destination = NEVER A GOOD IDEA. You will lose an entire day just getting back and you will hate yourself for it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The money saved is not worth your sanity, no matter how much you love San Cristobal de las Casas. You will <i>not </i>love it when you stumble off a 12 hour return voyage that involved little food, no money and so many forms of transportation you can't even remember how to use your legs anymore.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Make a Budget</b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
I had this half-assed idea that I'd have enough money to cover the trip. So did my almost-husband. SPOILER ALERT: <i>we did not have enough money</i>. This resulted in a particularly desperate scene where our shuttle bus company dumped us off at the Mexican-Guatemalan border because we didn't have enough cash to pay them. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The driver gave us about 5 minutes to find some money we could get on the connecting bus. Of course that was going to be impossible. We didn't <i>have </i>any money. Still, we both soldiered on and found an ATM a zillion miles away and tried to get an advance on my Visa. Oh. Oops. My Visa appeared to be <i>blocked</i>. We desperately tried to find an Internet cafe with a microphone but yeah, no dice. So calling my bank was impossible. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finally, after a lot of begging we managed to get a hotel to lend us their wi-fi password. I called my bank, unblocked my card, and then got out the cash. When we finally got back to the border our connecting bus had, of course, already left. We still had to cough up the cash to pay for it and then pay for another bus to get to San Cristobal so we could make our flight the following day.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, I hadn't eaten hardly all day, it was hot, and Miguel and I wanted to kill each other. Travel NIGHTMARE. I will never, on the pain of death, repeat this scenario again.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Don't Call a Visa Run a Honeymoon</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
Trying to see eight zillion things in eight days with no money is not the time to try and take your honeymoon. Ever little bump in the road will drive you insane because you are supposed to be having a relaxing, expensive, romantic trip. Not some half-assed, cold as hell, cheap as fuck, crap vacation that involves being on a chicken bus (and squished against a window for three hours because a row for four people now holds about six and maybe a child or two as well). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>You will hate yourself, your future husband and anything anyone ever tried to call romance.</b> A trip that might have been hilariously bad takes on a grim cast when it is supposed to be the most romantic trip of your life. You will eat your feelings the entire trip. And when you run out of money and eating becomes less possible, you will stick your nose in a paperback and try to forget you ever existed on this sorry earth.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Packing Light is Amazing</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh, this is a plus side! Yay! After my eight month trip in Asia lugging around a 60L overcrammed backpack I definitely realized that less is more. Nothing is more frustrating then trying to drag around the equivalent of a dead body in weight on eight thousand types of transportation.<br />
<br />
So<b> on the Guatemala trip I only brought a small backpack and the following</b>:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
-one pair of full-length running leggings</div>
<div>
-one pair exercise shorts</div>
<div>
-bikini</div>
<div>
-trail running shoes</div>
<div>
-flip-flops (for hostel showers, non-negotiable)</div>
<div>
-4 pair socks</div>
<div>
-1 sports bra / 4 pair underwear</div>
<div>
-four T-shirts (two long-sleeved)</div>
<div>
-one fleece-lined hoodie</div>
<div>
-face cream with SPF</div>
<div>
-toothbrush (travel-sized)</div>
<div>
-toothpaste</div>
<div>
-travel shampoo</div>
<div>
-deoderant (shared with boyfriend)</div>
<div>
-soap in a plastic travel case</div>
<div>
-Diva cup </div>
<div>
-travel towel</div>
<div>
-comb, hair elastic</div>
<div>
-meds (including Gravol, thank God)</div>
<div>
-scarf (doubles as pillow on buses)</div>
<div>
-one paperback book</div>
<div>
-iPhone</div>
<div>
-money belt (essential in Guatemala)</div>
<div>
-passport. cash, cards</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It all fit nicely into my backpack with room to spare.<b> </b>I downloaded the <a href="http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/guatemala/guatemala-travel-guide-5/" target="_blank">Highlands Guatemala chapter on Lonely Planet for $5</a> and read it off my iPhone so I was spared a hefty guidebook. I ended up washing clothes in the sink or just re-wearing them, whatever. Cleanliness is for squares.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I could totally see taking the same stuff on a much longer trip. Having a variety of stuff to wear is completely outweighed by the need to carry said stuff. Not having to check-in anything on our flight or stow away our backpacks on buses was the saving grace of this trip and kept disaster at bay. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
**</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That's my disaster honeymoon from hell. There were actually some great times and I'll share that in a seperate post. Look out for photos and less rant-y stories in the next week.<br />
<br />
And for those of you afraid for my marriage (in less than two weeks!) we are actually going to the beach in Oaxaca afterwards with my parents and his where we will hopefully chill the fuck out and take zero buses.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>What was your worst trip ever? What happened? Have you ever run out of money in a really inconvenient place? Tell me about it in the comments.</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>Reading List</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1742200117/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=390961&creativeASIN=1742200117&linkCode=as2&tag=acerbenapp-20">Lonely Planet Guatemala 5th Edition</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742200117" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> (used this on the trip)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1612383238/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=390961&creativeASIN=1612383238&linkCode=as2&tag=acerbenapp-20">Moon Guatemala</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612383238" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> (love this series)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/140936268X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=390961&creativeASIN=140936268X&linkCode=as2&tag=acerbenapp-20">Rough Guide Mexico 9e</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=140936268X" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> (what I use in Mexico, though an older edition)</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-51481830982429368252014-11-20T13:19:00.000-05:002014-11-20T14:07:50.755-05:00The Myth of the Radiant Bride: On Being a Grown Ass Woman and Getting Married<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5hPSGOYsKgIl54QRrXbW2N7fOd2Evx8pEix1r52UPgv8GySqp_5naJBYXbbaQtNFYVdfDl4zmOH5SgDnWcOC3LIvW36sHyoqpuClRSjoAZofc1CmzyAvUELTBBc_SP2v8kDZTvIcMvbD/s1600/6313584566_0610efd5b7_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5hPSGOYsKgIl54QRrXbW2N7fOd2Evx8pEix1r52UPgv8GySqp_5naJBYXbbaQtNFYVdfDl4zmOH5SgDnWcOC3LIvW36sHyoqpuClRSjoAZofc1CmzyAvUELTBBc_SP2v8kDZTvIcMvbD/s1600/6313584566_0610efd5b7_z.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/sezidesign/" target="_blank">Seralyn Keen</a> via Flickr.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Marriage. That transformative institution that makes a girl into a woman. Or a woman into a woman. Or an independent, self-supporting feminist into a girly-girl obsessed with stationary and veil lengths.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I had the good fortune to read <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0452288037/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=390961&creativeASIN=0452288037&linkCode=as2&tag=acerbenapp-20"><i>Emotionally Engaged</i></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=0452288037" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
last year which prepared me for the roller coaster that is <strike>getting married</strike> planning a wedding. <b>Simply put, marriage used to be a rite of passage where the bride left home and her parents to embark on a new life. </b>Now most Western women have already left home, earn their own money and otherwise become grown-ass women when they get engaged and married. So the whole wedding hoopla with its gift registries, colour schemes and expensive gown is a way to maintain the aura of a rite of passage without, you know, <i>it actually happening</i>.<br />
<br />
I feel sometimes like the whole white and lacy wedding thing is an exercise in repression so universally accepted (in the Western world) that many of us accept its trappings without examination.<br />
<br />
There are so many facets to explore. But other than the rite of passage BS, I'm also fascinated right now by <b>the myth of the "radiant bride." </b>I am currently reading and loving loving loving Naomi Wolf's <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0679308709/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=390961&creativeASIN=0679308709&linkCode=as2&tag=acerbenapp-20"><i>The Beauty Myth</i></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=0679308709" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />.<br />
<br />
Women are obsessed with radiating light, a nod to divinity where radiance symbols redemption and consecration. Women can "glow" naturally and wonderfully. But unfortunately the beauty industry has co-opted this concept in a very narrow way. A way that must be <i>purchased</i> through highlighters, illuminators, primers, foundations, shadows, lipsticks and God knows what else. <b>We are not allowed our own light. It is bottled and sold back to us.</b><br />
<br />
I love this phrase<b> </b>from <i>The Beauty Myth</i>: "Real men are matte. Their surfaces must not distract attention from what it is they are saying ... But women of every status glint ... What women look like is considered important because what we say is not."<br />
<br />
Women emit light in the process of giving themselves to men as brides, aided of course by a barrage of overpriced clothing, accessories, cosmetics and shoes. The package must be assembled properly so that it is soothing to the eye. The woman is a commodity, to be delivered.<br />
<br />
<b>She is not <i>herself</i>. She is to be given. She must be radiant, this grown-ass woman. Not matte. And of course she does not need to speak. Just to glow.</b><br />
<br />
I know some of you are thinking, "Stop being so cynical, Bronwyn! This is your time to embrace romance and fantasy. Who cares what it all means?"<br />
<br />
Well, I invite you all to enjoy your unscrutinized wedding fantasy in my place. For me, something is ruined when it is <i>not</i> scrutinized. When it is <i>not</i> analyzed for meaning. I want to know exactly what I'm in for. What all of these rituals and trappings really mean. What greater idea do I represent? Do I really want all of this wedding stuff or do I feel expected to want it?<br />
<br />
I've come to the conclusion that <i>I do not want it</i>. I thought I did, because it was so engrained in me to. But recently I have felt very, very resistant to the idea of being powdered and polished into some glowing version of me that looks nice and quiet in photos.<br />
<br />
The Bronwyn that my future husband is marrying is not nice and quiet. She glows for him, privately, in a way that can never be encapsulated by cosmetics and cultural ideals of "brideliness."<br />
<br />
She is not a bride. She is a woman. Who just happens to be getting married.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-88377084834990049732014-11-07T12:30:00.000-05:002014-11-07T12:30:23.139-05:00Planning a Wedding in Mexico: Cue Fear of Change & Scary Life Decisions<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gzOQf3GugRizaTRM5Bb3xn4lIk4pJHeDwOClxRkJywM6MuVIGOLfdAQ3KJw7qvnG-WfNRrkKfLlS7wStizVBhcfwpI_eljTlTfXSAANW7bLOTKptseavqSv_x4ZDfufirD4ezx12M10I/s1600/la+foto.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gzOQf3GugRizaTRM5Bb3xn4lIk4pJHeDwOClxRkJywM6MuVIGOLfdAQ3KJw7qvnG-WfNRrkKfLlS7wStizVBhcfwpI_eljTlTfXSAANW7bLOTKptseavqSv_x4ZDfufirD4ezx12M10I/s1600/la+foto.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miguel and I, drinking to avoid thinking about the impending wedding.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A wedding is never just a wedding. It is a lightning rod for countless insecurities and fears. For me it's like the final "nail" on the proverbial "coffin" that I started building two years ago. That was leaving Toronto in 2012 to travel. Which ended up being a full-on lifestyle re-haul involving moving permanently to Mexico City, getting engaged to a Mexican guy and trying to figure out a new freelance career.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>An entirely new life</i>. Scorched earth, if you will.<br /><div>
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<div>
It's not <i>really</i> a coffin. You could also say my wedding is like the final balloon that will lift my basket off the ground and take me away to freedom. But we all know I'm far too cynical for this kind of analogy.</div>
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What I'm worried about is that the wedding is a confirmation of my alienation from Canada. I really don't live there anymore. I'm far from my friends and family. Getting married to Mexico, with only my (small) family in attendance, underscores the fact that I've left my community and my ties to it are fraying, as is natural with the passage of time.</div>
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When you think about it that way all the trappings of a wedding that are supposed to excite you -- the beautiful dress, the honeymoon, the fancy dinner -- seem a little less shiny.</div>
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Happily, I'm not worried about my marriage. That's all good. It's everything else. The context. What the hell is happening with my life? How much longer will I be in Mexico? What's going to happen with my career? Am I ever going to live in Canada again?</div>
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I'm committing not just to a man but a <i>life</i>.</div>
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Someone give me a paper bag already...</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-91099663923367042642014-08-25T07:00:00.000-04:002015-05-18T11:41:20.944-04:00Long-Term Travel and Romance Writing: How I Did It<div>
I ended up traveling in North America and Southeast Asia from October 2013 to June 2014. The trip was funded solely on the steam powered by my writing.</div>
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I don't know what to say about this except that it's bloody hard to meet deadlines when you're hopping from city to town to ass-fuck-nowhere every few days. It's impossible. We all knew that, didn't we? You have to stay put for months somewhere to do any real work. I can't tell you how many times I was sitting in a cramped bus for hours on end trying to bang out my word count for the day. </div>
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And yet, I got something done and I got paid something and somehow I am now living in Mexico. Not dead in a ditch. I did go into debt to cover the gaps between pay cheques (and to cover some unforeseen expenses, which I won't go into here). </div>
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But all in all, I wrote, I survived and I saw all the things.</div>
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The usual question after a long trip is now what? For me it was going back to Mexico City where my fiancee was able to get a job. </div>
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Thankfully, my trip had given me two solid contacts who have been hiring me consistently since April 2014 to write romance for hire. So that's what I do now. As a job.</div>
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Most people aren't aware of how writing romance for hire (aka ghostwriting) works so here's the deal: </div>
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<ol>
<li>You get hired through Elance.com or Freelancer.com (in my case).</li>
<li>The client gives you a word count and a genre i.e. romantic thriller or cowboy romance</li>
<li>Sometimes the client gives you a specific plot to work with but this is rare. More likely they will say: "OK cowboy romance trilogy. Three books. 25,000 words each. Go!" <i>Seriously</i>.</li>
<li>You sign a contract saying you don't own the rights to the book, you will get paid a flat fee upon completion and you can't contact the end client or know what happens to the book.</li>
<li>The client puts your fee in escrow.</li>
<li>You write the fucking thing. SWEAT SWEAT SWEAT.</li>
<li>The client will release the funds. You do a happy dance and pay your credit card and your therapist.</li>
<li>The client will probably not ask you for edits but if they do, they are minimal. You do another happy dance because you hate extra work.</li>
<li>The book is then self-published or sold to a publisher. You aren't allowed to know anything about that. </li>
<li>The end.</li>
</ol>
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<b>Question</b>: Bronwyn, if the client just publishes the thing on Amazon or whatever, why don't you write your own books?</div>
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Excellent question, knucklehead. Because I need money <i>now</i> and I don't want to wait for the royalties to kick in. But I definitely want to do this in future when my income is more stable.</div>
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<b>Question</b>: how much do you make?</div>
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Shit. I make shit. Then again, I live in a cheap country (Mexico), I love the freedom of being self-employed and I know how to live lean. I earn $525 for a 40,000 word book. $300 for a 25,000 word book. I also write plot outlines for clients. Ten plot outlines for $150. What do my clients do with these plots? I don't know. They don't pay me to know! I just write them.</div>
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I also still occasionally do copywriting for Demand Media and various corporate blogs to supplement my income. I do not teach English anymore in Mexico. Why? Because schools pay crap and steady private clients are usually old creepy guys who think they're paying for "the girlfriend experience."</div>
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<i>Shudder</i>.</div>
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That's romance writing, my friends. I'm also working with an agent in Toronto who will hopefully be selling my novel to some Big Ass publisher this fall. I'm trying to work all the angles, yo.</div>
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<b>Post any questions in the comments below!</b><br />
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Interested in moving to Mexico? Here are some resources that helped me:
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1FjY4GU" target="_blank">Moon Mexico City<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612388264" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a>: highly recommended resource. I love and trust Moon guides.</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1EeOZv8" target="_blank">Moon Living Abroad in Mexico</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1612381790" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />: great source of information for potential expats</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/1QXhypW" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Mexico 14th Ed.</a>: the definitive country guide<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-ca.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=acerbenapp-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1742208061" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-2093351951747541142014-03-13T06:30:00.000-04:002014-03-13T22:34:43.123-04:00RantRantRant: Foreign-Owned Hotels in Cambodia Charging Through the Nose and Hiring Foreign Staff<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDsEFRWpHOGdEiwV8yH07lNog0I7KRvWRvWgSOTk0VjjiIagGsbPm4A83_tv1sPQR4IDmR8AM3GXc6iS_O3hh2MoDGjyYkNMLtGuqptYbwomvhlNwK1NsuKN_8VzGGH-EjCeslXQJfMAJ/s1600/IMG_4081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Footprints hotel on Otres Beach II in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Southeast Asia" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDsEFRWpHOGdEiwV8yH07lNog0I7KRvWRvWgSOTk0VjjiIagGsbPm4A83_tv1sPQR4IDmR8AM3GXc6iS_O3hh2MoDGjyYkNMLtGuqptYbwomvhlNwK1NsuKN_8VzGGH-EjCeslXQJfMAJ/s1600/IMG_4081.jpg" height="478" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great beach views, angry British owner. Footprints, Otres Beach II, Sihanoukville, Cambodia.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Alright, it's rant time. So I'm in Cambodia, one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia. Surprisingly, it's also been very expensive as most tourist establishments want U.S. dollars as opposed to the local currency, the riel. Not only that, but they charge U.S.-comparable prices, not the equivalent to the local rate.<br />
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Let's just stop here.<b> I'm never going to the be dick who rants on and on about how Western tourists should always pay local prices. </b>We can afford to pay a bit extra and usually the people in question need that bit extra (I make an exception for gouging i.e. extremely overinflated scams which is just not cool). It makes me cringe when people get angry because they refuse to pay $3 on what they think should be a $2 tuk-tuk ride. It's one thing to be asked to pay $10 or even $5 but $3? Shit.</div>
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In my two plus weeks in Cambodia I've now stayed at my fair number of foreigner-run hotels. Why? Usually because they were recommended to me and I've learned the value of a no-surprises clean hotel. For the most part, the hotels were well-run, clean and relatively well-priced. Right now I'm staying in a room at the Magic Sponge in Kampot, Cambodia with fan, hot shower and private ensuite that's clean, secure and is in a great location. It's $9 a night. NINE dollars. Can't complain there.</div>
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What gets me is that these hotels subsidize these decent and Cambodia-appropriate rates by charging through the nose for food. $4.50 for fruit salad, muesli and yogurt in Cambodia? You have to be kidding. </div>
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Now, Cambodia is a country that could sure use some cash. Most people make under $1000 a year. So if there's a place where I would invest some hard currency, Cambodia would be it. <b>Yet, these hotels are foreign owned. I'm basically pouring my dollars into expat hands. </b>But you say -- he or she pays taxes, employs staff, buys Cambodian supplies. True, though I'd be a lot more comfortable giving these funds directly to a Cambodian.</div>
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<b>To add insult to injury, I've seen a couple of these establishments hire foreign staff. </b>Footprints hostel in Sihanoukville offered backpackers food and accommodation if they worked behind the bar or at reception. As a backpacker struggling to write to support my travels, I know the value of an accommodation/food arrangement. I've done Workaway placements in Malaysia and payed a low daily rate in Indonesia for food and accommodation in exchange for teaching at local schools. In the latter case, I worked alongside Indonesian English teachers. No one's job was being stolen.</div>
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That said, <b>Cambodians really, really need these jobs.</b> The backpackers probably don't, at least compared to the locals. That Canadian at reception? A good job for a Cambodian. The British guy behind the bar? Another needed local job. And the British owner who was continually and loudly rude to her one Cambodian waitress? Reprehensible.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-UQ2ZZ7PSFA_40Cw51xt3eSM0giDozriH2zIkMlWAjA2gr5WCfY-s961GKdrjyjMCQJI8cVQi-rXTbD_Yg8tsQDL8fMtHRoxrdLLtiS3iULTw_wzHztDL9McCNAmn7KZDwhYMI3FbsRW/s1600/IMG_4083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Otres Beach II, Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Southeast Asia" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-UQ2ZZ7PSFA_40Cw51xt3eSM0giDozriH2zIkMlWAjA2gr5WCfY-s961GKdrjyjMCQJI8cVQi-rXTbD_Yg8tsQDL8fMtHRoxrdLLtiS3iULTw_wzHztDL9McCNAmn7KZDwhYMI3FbsRW/s1600/IMG_4083.jpg" height="478" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">While I love these little beach towns, I sometimes feel like their purpose is to <br />seal tourists off from the realities of local life. This is Otres Beach II, Sihanoukville, Cambodia.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Alright, so the million dollar question is: why aren't you just staying at local places, Bronwyn? Well, other than the recommendation thing I have a limited time in Cambodia so I'm hitting up the highlights where the foreign-owned quotient is probably a lot higher.<b> That said, I do feel like I'm doing things wrong, that I should have tried harder to put dollars in Cambodian hands, that I should be getting off the beaten track and staying with and paying Cambodians.</b></div>
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It's so easy and yeah, comfortable, to just hop to the nearest tourist compound where some American or Brit delivers cheap beer, expensive Western food, all the English DVDs you could ever want and other comforts of home. I guess you pay for that experience, the experience of not being too uncomfortable in a strange place. But would I do it again? Definitely not.<br />
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<b>What do you think? Am I a dick for trying to divine Cambodians needs? Do you have a different perspective?</b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7217342832279753037.post-66330423387215840952014-03-07T06:54:00.002-05:002014-03-07T06:56:38.079-05:00The Time I Lost My Shit in Cambodia<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0MGYPXDuvNAon0g_PPVXJ6rV1cpGUflsRtDbY_ZSHKeIc6CsKks6BJHO3K-bOypvJKtnVsrsBIBGbYII7-VY8OxoZszI0RZCSxH3XZ0p2CbUDMWaylTlOIEH8CyprAGTifALMIp09Qqp/s1600/la+foto.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Angkor Wat, Cambodia, Southeast Asia" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0MGYPXDuvNAon0g_PPVXJ6rV1cpGUflsRtDbY_ZSHKeIc6CsKks6BJHO3K-bOypvJKtnVsrsBIBGbYII7-VY8OxoZszI0RZCSxH3XZ0p2CbUDMWaylTlOIEH8CyprAGTifALMIp09Qqp/s1600/la+foto.JPG" height="478" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trip from hell so worth it to see Angkor Wat at sunrise.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I knew it was going to happen eventually. That I would lose my shit, somewhere along the line in this grand backpacking tour of Southeast Asia.<span class="dropcap"> </span><br />
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I'm not the most patient person. I'm also perennially anxious, change-avoidant and generally terrified of any stimulation stronger than reading a good book. This all makes me one of the worst travellers alive. In fact, I'm pretty much unfit to step outside my door. <b>I've wondered many, many times during this four months (and counting) trip why the hell I put myself through this much stress.</b></div>
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I suppose it's because even though I hate new things I also hate stagnation. I get bored easily and I crave eating new foods, hearing new languages, meeting new people (on my own very limited terms) and experiencing things that give me that <i>shock-awe-horror-bliss</i> sensation that's so delicious as well as terrifying. In short, I'm stubborn despite my shortcomings.</div>
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That said, I was so sure I was going to have some kind of meltdown during the trip. How could I not? It was going to be the ultimate clusterfuck of terrifying new things! I came pretty close during our scuba diving course on Koh Tao, Thailand. The first time we approached the pool and began to don that heavy equipment I began to cry, thoughts of drowning running through my fevered brain. I made a bit of an ass of myself but I saved face by pulling through and finishing the course.</div>
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However, I was still early in my travels. Now, the last month or so has been a real test of my patience. I got a disgusting skin abscess on my leg that was dangerously deep and has kept me from swimming, diving or at times, walking. Then my boyfriend lost his passport in Indonesia. I went onward to Cambodia alone and we frantically coordinated new flights while he raced around Jakarta trying to fix all the things. It was an expensive and emotionally exhausting experience. </div>
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Miguel finally landed in Cambodia and we got around to the business of sightseeing in Phnom Penh. But the city is under-developed and tough to love, at least for me. I'm not much of a city person, preferring the controlled stimulation of small towns with excellent wifi. Phnom Penh is busy with no public transportation, limited amenities for tourists and they use the U.S. dollar so it can be expensive. Plus, our hostel was a party place with music raging on well into the night. Not relaxing.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcL_kSzythgGAR-orLJAv-xnDvz3f1cL_QOGpzV67EO-wz-hh2IYPZxyR5Z9LpEugsdl938wpb_MUCG48JLgkCxyZAm3HuaJ_dwcb6LiH3EZBYSMW-VJwzDhsaDBe8uaqdzM3iSg1A8DtK/s1600/la+foto2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ta Prohm temple in the Angkor complex, Siem Reap, Cambodia" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcL_kSzythgGAR-orLJAv-xnDvz3f1cL_QOGpzV67EO-wz-hh2IYPZxyR5Z9LpEugsdl938wpb_MUCG48JLgkCxyZAm3HuaJ_dwcb6LiH3EZBYSMW-VJwzDhsaDBe8uaqdzM3iSg1A8DtK/s1600/la+foto2.JPG" height="478" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Also worth it to see Ta Prohm, a crumbling jungle temple near Siem Reap, Cambodia.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I wanted to get out so I booked a daytime bus to Siem Reap, the city closest to the archaeological wonder that is Angkor. The hotel's prices seemed inflated so we went to a random tour office and booked a ticket through them. Big mistake.</div>
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We got to the station on time and I sent Miguel out to grab water and snacks for the five and a half hour trip. He ended up having to go farther than he thought. I loaded our bags on the bus and waited for him. Except that the driver, his buddies and random tuk tuk drivers were having none of it. <b>They all started in on me, yelling that I was holding everyone up,</b> that this was my "personal problem" and demanding to know where Miguel was. <i>Like I knew</i>. OK so I shouldn't have asked Miguel to go out, but seriously, don't yell.</div>
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<b>I burst into tears and started crying, right there in the middle of the damn street. </b>That's when the tuk tuk drivers started <i>laughing</i> at me. Laughing!</div>
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Miguel emerged and pulled me into the bus. The driver got in my face, berating me, so I lost it and yelled "SHUT UP!"</div>
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Not my finest moment. I definitely shouldn't have gone that far.</div>
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Got in the bus anyway, where I continued to sob and the guy next to Miguel <i>started laughing as well</i>.</div>
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It was a long five plus hours on terrible roads, plus we were crammed in the very back in tiny seats. The driver drove like a madman, playing chicken with tour buses and motorcycles alike. Gotta love the infamous "third lane" in Southeast Asia.</div>
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I learned later from reading online that Cambodians sometimes deal with uncomfortable or awful situations through humour. God knows they've been through a lot, so I get it. I didn't realize that before so there you go -- serious cultural misunderstanding.</div>
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I regret being such an ass, as much as I regret taking that stupid piece of crap bus. I guess I can now say I've had my "lost my shit moment" and be more diplomatic from here on in.</div>
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<b>Have you ever totally lost it while traveling? What happened?</b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2