It’s never easy moving to a new place, especially with a family. Depending on whether you have children and how old they are, there are a few things you need to ahead of time. One of those things is schooling. You need to make sure your children are enrolled and set up with the education they need. There are many international schools in the Riviera Maya. Playa del Carmen, perhaps, has the most international options.
Before you arrive to your destination, you should also have in mind where you will be staying. Decide beforehand if you will be renting or purchasing real estate. For the latter, make sure to get in touch with an agent to set up some viewings for a place to live. Whether you will be moving around by vehicle, public transportation, bike, or foot, you will need to be in an area that is accessible to all the main comforts and necessities you will need.
So, how do you make the relocation with your family easier for everyone?
The first thing you need is patience. When moving everything from your hometown to Mexico and trying to find a place to live, you will require to take deep breaths and not lose it so easily. Things might not move as smoothly and easily as you may want them to, and looking for a place to live might require a trip or two down to Mexico before the actual move. Make sure to work with locals to find the best balance between what you want and need, and what is on offer.
Transportation
Once you arrive to Mexico, don’t be afraid of public transportation. Your family will see a lot of savings if you choose public transport over taxis. If you’re bringing down your vehicle, make sure you learn all the rules about driving and how to bring your car into the country beforehand. If you are looking to buy a vehicle here, there are also many options. You will find major car dealerships throughout the Riviera Maya.
Currency and Necessities
When it comes to money, make sure you quickly adapt to using the local currency, Mexican pesos. Teach your children the difference between currencies and why it’s important that they stick to pesos rather than dollars. You will also see savings in the long run. Another thing to keep in mind is to do some research on necessities that Mexico might not have and see how your family will adapt to those needs. While the Riviera Maya has major supermarkets, plenty of high-tech hospitals and a pretty solid infrastructure, you might find lacking in other things you might be used to back home. Certain foods or commodities are not a norm in Mexico and you will have to adapt to living without them.
Commodities
Speaking of major supermarkets, make sure to stick to those where locals go. Walmart is one of the major chains here; but don’t be fooled, they won’t always have your American products. Moreover, anything that is American might be priced slightly higher due to importation taxes that the company has to pay to bring them into the country. Learn where the local shops for produce and other things to avoid big unnecessary expenses. Don’t be afraid to try local restaurants, as well. While those in tourist areas such as Fifth Avenue are great for special occasions, they can strain your wallet.
Culture
Prepare your family for a lot of friendly people. Mexicans are a very open, welcoming culture, and they thrive from socializing in big events. Make sure you and your family are aware of the openness of the people so you are not taken by surprise. Some Americans and Canadians are very aware of their personal space, whereas in Mexico that is a boundary that many people cross and welcome. Getting to know the culture, traditions and customs beforehand is also very important to the relocation process.
Destination
When you’ve decided to relocate to Mexico with your family, it is important to choose your destination. If you’ve settled on the Riviera Maya, it is critic that you make a pros and cons list of whether you should go to Cancun, Tulum or Playa del Carmen. If you’re being relocated due to your job, your options are probably limited depending on where your office will be. However, if you have the freedom to choose, make sure you do so wisely before enrolling children in schools and other activities.
Healthcare
Another thing to keep in mind is healthcare. Make sure you have international coverage of your healthcare insurance. Do some research on which hospitals and doctors you can visit while in Mexico. The Riviera Maya has a top-notch medical industry, making it a popular medical tourism destination, but it is also important that you know exactly what to expect.
Banking
Check with your bank back home whether they have a partnership with any banks in Mexico. That way you know which banks to go to when needed. But if you are relocating for a long time, we highly recommend you open a bank account in the country. It will save you tons of hassles and headaches when trying to withdraw money or make transfers or any other movement in your bank. Major Mexican and international banks are present in Playa del Carmen and Cancun, as well as in Tulum.
As long as you have everything in order for your family, you will have a smooth transition with your relocation. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your furry friends with you, as well. It’s an easy process. All that is missing is a beautiful home away from home. Our Buyer’s Representatives can find for you in a heartbeat. Welcome to Mexico!
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!