When I was young I used to lived in USA and american people treat me very nice. It is the most beutiful thing happend to me living in USA. Now I lived in México but USA is in my heart ❤. So Americans wellcome to México.
@rachelhernandez4574: Muy estimada Doña Hernandez, Soy norteamericana de los EEUU.(California). Si todo el mundo actuaba como Ud tuviéramos todos la paz y la tranquilidad . Muchísimas gracias por su gran amabilidad y dulces palabras. Ojalá que Ud tenga una vida feliz y que Díos le bendiga con mucha felicidad.🌺🌞🕊️
@almostretiredin..You're very correct..I loved the US, but after trumps election for president our country will be in Autocratic hands😢..he's raised alot of divide, racism. Hatred, it's unbelievable to watch. I miss Mexico 🇲🇽 😢
People don't understand how much your life changes moving to Mexico. Apart from the weather, prices, culture, great gastronomy and friendly people, as soon as you land here you are stress free, you eat, breath, think and live on another level. Makes you realize that where you live isn't really the land of the free, here you are totally free!
stress free? LOL have you heard about poverty and the cartels? Mexico works for many gringos because they go with money. That Mexico, seen from the eyes of gringos with money, is a beautiful Mexico. But seeing Mexico from the eyes of most Mexicans, it's a little bit more challenging
Bienvenido a Mexico! Im born in Mexico been in the states for most of my life and planning on moving back as soon as im able to pull the plug and retire.. (in a few years)
I wish I could tell you where it was. I tried finding it on a map after I got back to La Paz and I couldn't find it. It used to be connected to the road, but then someone built a wall along the road and they got disconnected! But it's charming!!
I’m thinking of moving there .I’m Canadian and things are not good here . My only concern is getting my 3 cats there because I made a commitment to them to care for them forever .Thanks for you video, it was very entertaining
@@vegamusician Assuming you're from Mexico, do you feel that it's not OK to encourage people to move to the US, or Spain or any other nice place in the world?
I recently started looking at countries to relocate my family. I live in a VERY expensive area of the USA. The only thing keeping me here right now is $ and my family situation- but- the socioeconomic conditions are declining. Wages are not keeping up with cost of living. It is getting scary at this point. I am a former teacher and emerging visual artist... and San Miguel seems so perfect❤
You called it a "tiny town"? 175,000 people isn't tiny. I live in a town with under 4,000 people. That is kind of tiny. I'm from the USA, I've been here 20 years, and I just love it. Your home is just beautiful.
Omg...I would love to meet this man such an inspiration about living the life and starting over. Love the rescue of animals. Meeting locals ,art,and happiness shines through him .
San Miguel has an attraction that has brought visitors and residents from all over the world. Even our friends from China! My first time here was in 1989, and I decided to make it home, though im a little out of town. I love to hear success stories of people who lose their jobs and ultimately find happiness. God's blessings are on them. (Edited for AutoCorrect failures)
The United States government gave me a scholarship to go from California to San Miguel Allende to study advanced Spanish, Mexican history, Mexican culture, Mexican music and dance. I stayed with a Mexican family. I also took Salsa lessons at night. I am a Spanish teacher.
David super interesante tu beca para estudiar en México, y ahora ya todo un profe de español… felicidades!! Y qué tal la historia, fascinante no? Cuídate mucho y bendiciones 🐶🐶
Friend of Kat's from WA. Saw her story featured and I subscribed and I'm watching all your UA-cam posting and you totally making me want to move there!
I don't know how I missed this video when it came out! This is one of my favorite videos of yours. I love how the universe dropped this incredible new life in his lap and how open he was to the change! The apartment was stunning!!!
Thanks for watching Kirsten. I have a new San Miguel de Allende video coming soon. Unfortunately I only had 24 hours in SMA and didn't have time to connect with Michael. :-(
soy mexicano viviendo en estados unidos y evisto muchos videos de estado unidenses viviendo en mexico y no puedo comentar en todos los videos, pero en este video puedo decir que me alegra mucho que estas personas tengan una vida en mi pais y sean felices...algun dia regresare a mi pais y estare muy agradecio con estados unidos que me dio la oportunidad de estar aqui...
Great choice!!!! I'm in Nayarit and live very comfortable with $750 SS US dollar pension. When I arrived I paid $100 for a bedroom 1 queen bed rent. Shared kitchen and bathroom. After 3 years I am all set on my own . I pay rent $140 a month, $100 for utilities and internet. $100 medical and $100 groceries. $100 bus or taxi.
San Miguel de Allende is a charming city located in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, artistic community, and vibrant cultural scene, it has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city's historic center is characterized by cobblestone streets, ornate churches, and colorful buildings, creating a picturesque and inviting atmosphere. San Miguel de Allende has become a haven for artists, writers, and retirees from around the world, contributing to its cosmopolitan and diverse ambiance. Its art galleries, craft markets, and cultural festivals, combined with a blend of Mexican and international influences, make it a popular destination for those seeking a blend of history, creativity, and relaxation. Thanks, Casi Jubilado en Mexico!
Thanks for this interview. I know now that I have to come to San Miguel De Allende! So many other places in MX I want to go but this is going onto the bucket list too!
Michael has a beautiful spirit -- so uplifting! His home is gorgeous! I'm living in Vallarta and the prices for that quality and space are much higher. I'm curious if San Miguel is still fairly reasonable for housing? A friend visited and she thought overall it was pricier (shops, restaurants, etc.) than Vallarta?
@BetsyGuttin Michael is definitely getting a "above average" deal for San Miguel. And it is on the pricier side when you look at Mexico as a whole. I haven't really compared prices in PV vs SMA, but to me it felt like SMA was less expensive.
I live down the road in Queretaro. Been in Mexico for ten years married to a Latina. I went bankrupt after my divorce in 2012. Found a new life here. Great people I ain't leaving.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Turns out QRO is relatively safe from cartels for now. The traffic is crazy. Life is good here in paradise for us retired folks
@@BearInThePhillipines Most folks suggest renting an apartment somewhere before buying. But we bought (in La Paz) during our first visit. You never know. You wouldn't be the first white guy to find a girlfriend in Mexico - even without speaking Spanish.
Sadly, I couldn’t even find the coffee shop on a map or Google Earth. But if you take Michaels photography coarse you could probably convince him to share the location.
Hi we have had a house here since 2011 and have built two others since then. We got into ballroom dancing here in SMA and the second house the lower floor was suppose to be a nice shop for me to play in but it turned into the ballroom with a two bedroom apt above so I had to build the third place so I could have my shop. Michael is right you can get along with just english but you will have a lot more fun if you put forth the effort to learn a little Espanol. I work at it every day for a half hour or so and I have many good friends that are natives here. I ride motorcycles with a group of Mexicans and I am the only gringo in the group. Most of them are working guys and do not speak english but they put up with me anyway. I love the Mexican culture as they are Family, Family and Family. We have been invited to parties and events where we are just about the only gringos there. I just paid my property taxes. The house we had in Oregon sold for 1.2 mil the one we have in centro is worth about the same. Taxes in Oregon were 23K here we paid $700 USD or 13,000 pesos. The smaller house I just finished taxes were $174.00. You can go out and have a couple glasses of wine with your dinner in a nice place and it will cost about $35 dollars for two maybe 45 depending on what you have. The weather, food, living and the people here are great. We love it. But don't come as there are enough gringos here as it is.
Thanks for sharing. This is great information for folks looking to move south! Do you know Gary Bennet? He's also involved in the ballroom dance scene in SMA: ua-cam.com/video/_JWVMUT8svw/v-deo.html
@kisary4962 I’m glad he added the price as it helps to understand the difference in property tax. I don’t know where his house was in Oregon, but in Bend or Portland that’s not that expensive of a house. Oregon is starting to experience west coast prices…
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico And it doesn't come off to you as boasting about how much his house was worth. You must fit right in there with all the Expats bragging about how much their house in the U.S. was sold for and how much they paid for their house in San Miguel. Doesn't that get old after awhile? And then he says other people like him shouldn't do what he did and move there. What a complete Douchebag. I avoid Expats like him like the plague when I'm there in San Miguel.
@@kisary4962 nope - it doesn’t come off as bragging. He talks about the difference in taxes paid for two similarly priced houses. That’s great info if you own a house in one country and are looking to move to another. But if it landed as bragging to you then it landed as bragging to you. It landed as good info yo me.
It’s so funny, we lived in La Paz last year, that’s how I started watching your videos. We are in SMA now too, kismet? Very good interview. We’ll be traveling further south, it will be more then coincidence if we’re in the same place same time again😅. I’ve been doing a vlog , Going Walkabout, different focus from yours however same intent of trying to help folks transition in retirement.
Enjoy mainland Mexico. I wish I was coming back to the mainland soon, but I don't have plans. Next trip will probably be Mazatlan by ferry or flying to Guadalajara. I just subscribed to your channel.
I will be there next month after QRO and looking forward to checking out SMA. Currently in GDL and I like it, but will see if QRO or SMA is a better fit.
I don’t want to be a party pooper but just curious to know something I read in a news article about San Miguel de Allende. Please let me know your opinion. The article mentioned that San Miguel has become so gentrified by the foreigners and ex-pats that the local residents can’t even afford to live there any more. The article mentioned that (mostly) Americans are selling their expensive homes on the west and east coast and paying top dollars for the houses there and making them their own. It went on to say that homes where local people used to live in are bought, then sold by the foreigners at prices that only other foreigners can pay. Locals have no option but to live on the outskirts of San Miguel or go somewhere else. This reminds me exactly of what happened in Santa Fe, New Mexico in the 1940’s. However, Santa Fe was not taken over by foreigners but by the art community relocating from other states. The famous American painter Georgia O’Keeffe made Santa Fe her home in 1949; many more artists soon followed. The locals, mostly Pueblo Indians, could not afford to live in their homes anymore due to the high rents and/or property taxes and now live in small communities outside of New Mexico.
Gentrification and displacement is an issue in San Miguel. Most of the property owners are still Mexican and benefit significantly from charging higher rent or selling to foreigners. However, any locals who rent instead of own are left behind in this change. I’ve been trying to find answers. And I’ll do a video as soon as I can. SMA is also attractive to wealthy Mexicans. Even in a place like SMA, foreigners are still a small part of the population.
i have to tell you that i had friends who lived in a house in this complex a year ago, and i visited them for a week and had the greatest time in SMA, i'm happy to see you are enjoying it as much as i did!
What a "Debbie Downer" (NOT) He seems truly passionate about his new life ... and good for him ... out of Lemons he made Margaritas and Coffee. 👍👍👍🐈🐕🦺 P n D
Once you have your temporary residency, you can apply for the right to work - you just need some unique skill to show you aren't taking a job from a Mexican. If you can get permanent residency straight away, then you automatically have the right to work.
Have a friend who moved there 3 years ago. Rents keep going up, foreigners coming in causing prices of everything to jump. Serious medical care hard to come by, he must return to the US for higher end medical care. The weather is great, people nice but one is still a foreigner and will never be accepted as any thing else.
Thanks for sharing. Is he returning to the US because the care isn’t available or because his insurance won’t cover Mexico? Some people on Medicare will use local medical system for most things, but return to the US for expensive things. But many younger folks without US insurance get amazing care here (at least in the bigger cities.)
It's a beautiful place, but unfortunately only for very wealthy people. You can find reasonable places in Queretaro, but now with the exchange rates so low, it's no longer budget friendly there either.
@reflectionsinthebible3579 and that whole war trying to stop the spread of communism. I thought the right didn't like communism. That seems to have changed when Donald became bros with Putin. At least Biden still cares about protecting Democracies.
@josephsmith961 Micheal is paying just $600 per month, which isn't too bad. But I know what you are saying, SMA is much pricier than QRO. And in my short time in these places, I preferred QRO...
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico I moved from Colorado where we were living at 6700 feet and breathing was tough. QRO was up there in altitude too, and I have COPD, so Merida was a better choice for me. It's hotter than 2 rats humping in a wool sock in the summer, but I can still breath without any inhalers. Notice the Trumper deleted his comment hahaha!
Good and very accurate story. As a fellow photographer I have met Michael a few times. Great guy! His story can be very attainable-SMA has a funny habit of throwing great opportunities and great experiences at you. You can play blind expat or you can open up to the amazing local people and put yourself in a very different and very rewarding world. I came here a year and a half ago on my way to Southeast Asia. I never left!
The temps there are similar to San Juan De Los Lagos Jalisco . I think in that they're cool highs in the 70s or barely around 80 F degrees . Very pleasant two weeks in July 2008 there . I come from San Antonio Tx and it’s scorching blistering HOT dsys here . In San juan De Los Lagos it rained every day keeping temps down . I carried an umbrella with me everywhere I went . I went to mass at basilica there and spent the days at the different restaurants and markets . At nights spent them at the fountain in front of the Basilica I loved it
Love your videos. Just subscribed. Thinking about early retirement. I've never been to Mexico but am considering San Miguel, Huatulco, or Playa del Carmen.
I like that he didn't just try to replicate his US life style but rather carved out a niche for himself in the context of where he now lives. That's called flexibility and using your imagination and having the guts to go for it. I see a lot of real estate videos about Mexico and they mostly push places that only high income people can afford. I keep thinking that the Mexicans don't live like that nor do many of them want to.
I have a question - most of the houses I see in the area are small with very little land. My ultimate goal is to build a life as an artist, and I want some room to have chickens and to garden - what neighborhoods/nearby communities have a bit more room?
Michael…. I’m just back home in snowy cold New England after a full month in SanMiguel…. I saw you class and wanted to get to it… But ran out of time! I did go to the monarch butterfly’s!!! I’d love to have you as a resource… My gfriends and I want to get to SanMiguel more frequently!!! We’ve stayed near the Centro and this time near Fabrica….. Can you reach out for contact??? You are so resourceful and inspiring…. Diane Z
How were the monarchs? I've wanted to see them, but I heard that this year wasn't the best time because of safety in the area (since Chapo's son was arrested.) You can reach out the Michael via his website: experiencesma.com/michael-solof-photography
Enjoy IT CONGRATULATION this is one of the place better... in 🇲🇽 Mexico. SAN MIGUEL ALLENDE IS GORGEOUS PEACEFUL AND VERY CULTURAL...ITS A DREAM PKACE MEXICAN PEOPLE ARE DOWN TO EARTH PEOPLE AND VERY FRIENDLY 🇲🇽 😀 🎊 CONGRATULATION 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀
True that about being busier in retirement here than working full time in the states. I've also been in SMA for 3 years. In my experience, few store clerks (outside Centro), tradespeople, cabbies, or vendors speak English. Everyone is experienced with gringos, though, so doing business is no problem, and locals are welcoming whether you can converse with them or not.
he still has the same shirt on from the pic in his dream job!! lol yes, keep your clothes looking good and keep wearing them and having a great time in your life
Michael, I would love to visit you, I too I’m living in the states and looking to relocate to SMA the town the culture just the city looks colorful and serene. Your home is absolutely gorgeous I love it. Your place is inviting . I’m 66 yrs old retired and single I’m currently living in Puerto Rico caring for my elderly mother. When my brothers visit PR I take off on vacation but I only get 7-10 days. I would love to travel to SMA. Give me your thoughts on this . Thank you, Miriam ❤ BTW, we can FaceTime if that is if you like. 😊❤
Hmmm... I thought I'd made a video about that, but I haven't yet. I'll add it to the list. But it's pretty easy. You just need your CLABE number from your Mexican bank and you should just be able to walk right through it in the Wise app.
Dear Michael beautiful video this. I am a retired person from Puerto Rico and will like to visit San Miguel de Allende to know the town and live for a while. I also will like to know others states at Mexico ; did you know about a travel guide that can help me move at the best places of Mexico. Does I can phone you at a number. Thanks for your help cordially yours Rafael 🙏🌞🙏
You can reach Michael thru his website: experiencesma.com/michael-solof-photography Two travel guide options: www.mexicoforliving.com/ and mexicorelocationguide.com
Thanks for the very nice first hand experience of living in Mexico! I liked and subscribed. Can you get your monthly Social Security money and live there? If so, is there any technical hurdles one must do to receive your SS while not living in the US?
Great questions. Yes, you can get your SS retirement money abroad (SS disability money is a bit different.) You need to file a form every couple years to confirm you're still alive, etc. I'm hoping to do a video specifically about SS retirement abroad.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico What if I'm quasi-nomadic and live in one country or city for a while (maybe at times longer than with a tourist visa) then move on? I was disability for a few years but when I turned 65 they sent a letter saying I was no longer so. I found out nothing would change and it didn't and another Senior told me I'm some kind of slightly different status than regular SS. I might not ever return to the US but not sure depending how my going "out of my comfort zone" goes and Medicare won't I'm told cover me abroad. Is that right?
I'm jealous. How old are you ? Let's be friends, I also love, love coffee. I'm Mexican American born in Los Angeles but do know many places in Mexico. Also have interest in living in Mexico but also have not decided where yet. You have a great life and values. Will start following your website. Adios for now. Gracie D.
This is exciting. I've seen a few videos about the program in Italy that let's you buy old houses cheap. San Miquel is more beautiful than the areas I've seen in Italy, IMO, and much closer for me to get to as I live in Texas. Thanks for the video!
excelent on beautíful your house l loved l giving at very good Credit too you here on san miguel allende lm from lrapuato GuaNajuato l know is great san migue del allende l loved so mach ❤🤗
The best way to thank me is with a margarita from www.buymeamargarita.com
When I was young I used to lived in USA and american people treat me very nice. It is the most beutiful thing happend to me living in USA. Now I lived in México but USA is in my heart ❤. So Americans wellcome to México.
So glad you had a positive experience in the US! It all depends who you interact with. Some Americans are great people. Others are racist jerks.
@rachelhernandez4574:
Muy estimada Doña Hernandez,
Soy norteamericana de los EEUU.(California). Si todo el mundo actuaba como Ud tuviéramos todos la paz y la tranquilidad . Muchísimas gracias por su gran amabilidad y dulces palabras. Ojalá que Ud tenga una vida feliz y que Díos le bendiga con mucha felicidad.🌺🌞🕊️
That is so very kind of you, I appreciate it. I’m from California and am thinking of moving to SMA
@almostretiredin..You're very correct..I loved the US, but after trumps election for president our country will be in Autocratic hands😢..he's raised alot of divide, racism. Hatred, it's unbelievable to watch. I miss Mexico 🇲🇽 😢
A genuinely happy man who has embraced his new life with gusto. Thank you for bringing these uplifting stories to us.
People don't understand how much your life changes moving to Mexico. Apart from the weather, prices, culture, great gastronomy and friendly people, as soon as you land here you are stress free, you eat, breath, think and live on another level. Makes you realize that where you live isn't really the land of the free, here you are totally free!
So true! Thanks for sharing.
stress free? LOL have you heard about poverty and the cartels? Mexico works for many gringos because they go with money. That Mexico, seen from the eyes of gringos with money, is a beautiful Mexico. But seeing Mexico from the eyes of most Mexicans, it's a little bit more challenging
I moved to Mexico and found that there are problems here too, I find your generalization a little simple.
Mexico is magic
All of your mental illnesses goes away...
Another interesting person, someone who makes his own happy place, love it.
I think Michael could be happy anywhere!
I'm from Baltimore and I loved Geppi's Museum. I'm glad that Michael is enjoying life.
Bienvenido a Mexico! Im born in Mexico been in the states for most of my life and planning on moving back as soon as im able to pull the plug and retire.. (in a few years)
That sounds great. I have a video of a Mexican born American who recently retired back in Mexico: ua-cam.com/video/-9_3HrX9ukU/v-deo.html
I really want to visit this coffee shop and all the rescued critters
I wish I could tell you where it was. I tried finding it on a map after I got back to La Paz and I couldn't find it. It used to be connected to the road, but then someone built a wall along the road and they got disconnected! But it's charming!!
This sounds ideal! Creative and vibrant community,all different types of people,and wow!He sure got lucky with that place!It's a dream!
I’m thinking of moving there .I’m Canadian and things are not good here . My only concern is getting my 3 cats there because I made a commitment to them to care for them forever .Thanks for you video, it was very entertaining
You can legally bring in 2 pets per person. If you drive across the border, they don’t really care. Flying is probably more regulated.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico stop encouraging them, it is NOT your country
@@vegamusician Assuming you're from Mexico, do you feel that it's not OK to encourage people to move to the US, or Spain or any other nice place in the world?
I recently started looking at countries to relocate my family. I live in a VERY expensive area of the USA. The only thing keeping me here right now is $ and my family situation- but- the socioeconomic conditions are declining. Wages are not keeping up with cost of living. It is getting scary at this point. I am a former teacher and emerging visual artist... and San Miguel seems so perfect❤
Well if you need help I help start the process of applying in the USA and help you all the way to the end in Mexico
You called it a "tiny town"? 175,000 people isn't tiny. I live in a town with under 4,000 people. That is kind of tiny. I'm from the USA, I've been here 20 years, and I just love it. Your home is just beautiful.
Omg...I would love to meet this man such an inspiration about living the life and starting over. Love the rescue of animals. Meeting locals ,art,and happiness shines through him .
San Miguel has an attraction that has brought visitors and residents from all over the world. Even our friends from China! My first time here was in 1989, and I decided to make it home, though im a little out of town. I love to hear success stories of people who lose their jobs and ultimately find happiness. God's blessings are on them.
(Edited for AutoCorrect failures)
Thanks! Congrats on settling in such a beautiful area!
The United States government gave me a scholarship to go from California to San Miguel Allende to study advanced Spanish, Mexican history, Mexican culture, Mexican music and dance. I stayed with a Mexican family. I also took Salsa lessons at night. I am a Spanish teacher.
David super interesante tu beca para estudiar en México, y ahora ya todo un profe de español… felicidades!! Y qué tal la historia, fascinante no?
Cuídate mucho y bendiciones 🐶🐶
Was this after military service? Thanks for sharing your story!
Mínimo plática un poco de tu experiencia aquí en México..cuáles son los pros y vs ...
Habías de hacer un vídeo para que platiques tus vivencias...
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico
Muchos años después de el Army. Long time after.
Friend of Kat's from WA. Saw her story featured and I subscribed and I'm watching all your UA-cam posting and you totally making me want to move there!
Nice to meet you Angela! Glad you subscribed. I've got lots of videos for you to binge watch ;-)
Very genuine guy... thanks for your efforts sharing your experience!
Exactly! Happy to share.
Great story. Thanks for sharing. Hello from Canada 🇨🇦
Thanks Derrick!
I don't know how I missed this video when it came out! This is one of my favorite videos of yours. I love how the universe dropped this incredible new life in his lap and how open he was to the change! The apartment was stunning!!!
Thanks for watching Kirsten. I have a new San Miguel de Allende video coming soon. Unfortunately I only had 24 hours in SMA and didn't have time to connect with Michael. :-(
soy mexicano viviendo en estados unidos y evisto muchos videos de estado unidenses viviendo en mexico y no puedo comentar en todos los videos, pero en este video puedo decir que me alegra mucho que estas personas tengan una vida en mi pais y sean felices...algun dia regresare a mi pais y estare muy agradecio con estados unidos que me dio la oportunidad de estar aqui...
The cat meowing at the beginning is so funny 😁
Visited several times. Truly, it is an amazing place.
Great choice!!!! I'm in Nayarit and live very comfortable with $750 SS US dollar pension. When I arrived I paid $100 for a bedroom 1 queen bed rent. Shared kitchen and bathroom.
After 3 years I am all set on my own . I pay rent $140 a month, $100 for utilities and internet. $100 medical and $100 groceries. $100 bus or taxi.
Wow! That's great. Congrats on finding an affordable place to live! And thanks for sharing.
This man really looks like he is having the amazing life the vast majority can’t live.
Many can’t live this life, but there are many who can live this life but are afraid to make the move.
I seriously just love this house 😊❤😊
Dream life always more enjoyable than just money it opens you inner nature
this guy can explain anything...best of all is his authenticity...SMA here I come
Enjoy!
San Miguel de Allende is a charming city located in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, artistic community, and vibrant cultural scene, it has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city's historic center is characterized by cobblestone streets, ornate churches, and colorful buildings, creating a picturesque and inviting atmosphere. San Miguel de Allende has become a haven for artists, writers, and retirees from around the world, contributing to its cosmopolitan and diverse ambiance. Its art galleries, craft markets, and cultural festivals, combined with a blend of Mexican and international influences, make it a popular destination for those seeking a blend of history, creativity, and relaxation. Thanks, Casi Jubilado en Mexico!
Nice interview. Micheal is a great ambassador for SMA. -Marc
How long are you in SMA?
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico We leave in the morning. Headed back to SLP. -Marc
Great video Michael! Nice to see you the other day.
Thank you, gentlemen. I learned and enjoyed your video. Wow, what a nice place to live.
Thanks for watching!
I love San Miguel! People are so friendly and it’s colorful and so beautiful.
I totally agree!
Eso sí, muy bonito, pero solo el centro histórico, no te vayas a las orillas de la ciudad, no es seguro y es polvoriento.
@@gehobanilopez4206 Si. Gracias por tu comentario.
Thanks for this interview. I know now that I have to come to San Miguel De Allende! So many other places in MX I want to go but this is going onto the bucket list too!
Definitely! I wanna go back - plus there are many nearby places to explore.
Loved this video-so informative-and thoroughly enjoyed this couple! ¡Muchisima gracias!
Michael has a beautiful spirit -- so uplifting! His home is gorgeous! I'm living in Vallarta and the prices for that quality and space are much higher. I'm curious if San Miguel is still fairly reasonable for housing? A friend visited and she thought overall it was pricier (shops, restaurants, etc.) than Vallarta?
@BetsyGuttin Michael is definitely getting a "above average" deal for San Miguel. And it is on the pricier side when you look at Mexico as a whole. I haven't really compared prices in PV vs SMA, but to me it felt like SMA was less expensive.
I live down the road in Queretaro. Been in Mexico for ten years married to a Latina. I went bankrupt after my divorce in 2012. Found a new life here. Great people I ain't leaving.
Congrats on finding your perfect spot. I liked QRO more than SMA, but I didn’t really explore either.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico
Turns out QRO is relatively safe from cartels for now. The traffic is crazy. Life is good here in paradise for us retired folks
Thank you for inspiration report
Would you suggest fly down first check it out? Can I find a petite girlfriend even if yo hablar pequito espanol?
@@BearInThePhillipines Most folks suggest renting an apartment somewhere before buying. But we bought (in La Paz) during our first visit. You never know.
You wouldn't be the first white guy to find a girlfriend in Mexico - even without speaking Spanish.
@@BearInThePhillipines 😂😂😂
I've never been to San Miguel de Allende. Looks amazing !!! ... Gracia amigos ..... Javier from Houston, Texas
I’ll be in SMA in May-June! I’d love to visit this coffee shop and meet The Man Who Lives On The Couch! 😄
Sadly, I couldn’t even find the coffee shop on a map or Google Earth. But if you take Michaels photography coarse you could probably convince him to share the location.
THANK YOU....I needed this
Happy to share - Michael is a great guy!
Excellent episode. Inspiring and motivating. Thanks.
Thanks for watching!
Hi we have had a house here since 2011 and have built two others since then. We got into ballroom dancing here in SMA and the second house the lower floor was suppose to be a nice shop for me to play in but it turned into the ballroom with a two bedroom apt above so I had to build the third place so I could have my shop. Michael is right you can get along with just english but you will have a lot more fun if you put forth the effort to learn a little Espanol. I work at it every day for a half hour or so and I have many good friends that are natives here. I ride motorcycles with a group of Mexicans and I am the only gringo in the group. Most of them are working guys and do not speak english but they put up with me anyway. I love the Mexican culture as they are Family, Family and Family. We have been invited to parties and events where we are just about the only gringos there. I just paid my property taxes. The house we had in Oregon sold for 1.2 mil the one we have in centro is worth about the same. Taxes in Oregon were 23K here we paid $700 USD or 13,000 pesos. The smaller house I just finished taxes were $174.00. You can go out and have a couple glasses of wine with your dinner in a nice place and it will cost about $35 dollars for two maybe 45 depending on what you have. The weather, food, living and the people here are great. We love it. But don't come as there are enough gringos here as it is.
Thanks for sharing. This is great information for folks looking to move south! Do you know Gary Bennet? He's also involved in the ballroom dance scene in SMA: ua-cam.com/video/_JWVMUT8svw/v-deo.html
You come off as boasting about your 1 million dollar house in Oregon. You had to throw that in, do you bring that up in all your conversations?
@kisary4962 I’m glad he added the price as it helps to understand the difference in property tax. I don’t know where his house was in Oregon, but in Bend or Portland that’s not that expensive of a house. Oregon is starting to experience west coast prices…
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico And it doesn't come off to you as boasting about how much his house was worth. You must fit right in there with all the Expats bragging about how much their house in the U.S. was sold for and how much they paid for their house in San Miguel. Doesn't that get old after awhile? And then he says other people like him shouldn't do what he did and move there. What a complete Douchebag. I avoid Expats like him like the plague when I'm there in San Miguel.
@@kisary4962 nope - it doesn’t come off as bragging. He talks about the difference in taxes paid for two similarly priced houses. That’s great info if you own a house in one country and are looking to move to another.
But if it landed as bragging to you then it landed as bragging to you. It landed as good info yo me.
Can't wait to make it out to sma. Spent years in morelia but looking forward to sma
Morelia is where the butterflies are, right? I've not been yet, but it's on my list. SMA is a wonderful town.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Avoid Michoacan please
Excellent video- thanks for sharing
Glad you enjoyed it, Kathleen
Been there many times years ago, beautiful place and beautiful people. Enjoyed every trip.All the best to you.
It really is! Glad you enjoyed it.
It’s so funny, we lived in La Paz last year, that’s how I started watching your videos. We are in SMA now too, kismet? Very good interview. We’ll be traveling further south, it will be more then coincidence if we’re in the same place same time again😅. I’ve been doing a vlog , Going Walkabout, different focus from yours however same intent of trying to help folks transition in retirement.
Enjoy mainland Mexico. I wish I was coming back to the mainland soon, but I don't have plans. Next trip will probably be Mazatlan by ferry or flying to Guadalajara. I just subscribed to your channel.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico we will be coming back to La Paz , most likely next year, so far it’s our favorite Mexican city 🤓
Livin' large, Mike! Now you are a UA-cam Star! Congrats.
He's a star so many other places - now UA-cam too!
I will be there next month after QRO and looking forward to checking out SMA. Currently in GDL and I like it, but will see if QRO or SMA is a better fit.
I've not yet been to GDL but SMA and QRO are amazing. In my short time there, I think I preferred QRO. Have fun!
Very welcome to QRO, saludos!
Me too I love gdl and going to see qro and oxhaca
Thank you so much for sharing these stories! Very Happy New Year to you and your lovely wife!
Thank you and Feliz Año!
Very interesting clip. Good story. Mexico City not too far away.
A 45.minitos del aeropuerto de Guanajuato a México.
Yes - and there are frequent (very nice) buses. I'll post a video about my ride soon.
Love this interview, love his energy (caffeine!😄) and enthusiasm! 🙏 thanks
Me too! Thanks for watching
His energy motivation is contagious.
What a lovely and interesting guy!, he must be very fun to hang on!! San Miguel is Beautiful!!!
We had a great time that afternoon filming this!
Thank you dor sharing rhis beautiful video
Thanks for watching!
That is stunning!
So many Americans are retiring in Mexico 🇲🇽 San Miguel especially
No los espantes... Chapo!!!
@@mariamar2114 va ser la invasión de gringos ni de aquí ni de aya
Thank your for giving Mexico the credit and history lesson that Mexico and the USA have work together and have major history together ❤
Well said!
Yep, including my great great great great uncle David Crockett getting killed at the Alamo...
God was looking out for you.
Ummm... OK
Omg…that’s what I’m looking for.
Planing to move to Mexico this year.
have fun!
Welcome
He's good ar adapting and going with the flow.
I don’t want to be a party pooper but just curious to know something I read in a news article about San Miguel de Allende. Please let me know your opinion. The article mentioned that San Miguel has become so gentrified by the foreigners and ex-pats that the local residents can’t even afford to live there any more. The article mentioned that (mostly) Americans are selling their expensive homes on the west and east coast and paying top dollars for the houses there and making them their own. It went on to say that homes where local people used to live in are bought, then sold by the foreigners at prices that only other foreigners can pay. Locals have no option but to live on the outskirts of San Miguel or go somewhere else.
This reminds me exactly of what happened in Santa Fe, New Mexico in the 1940’s. However, Santa Fe was not taken over by foreigners but by the art community relocating from other states. The famous American painter Georgia O’Keeffe made Santa Fe her home in 1949; many more artists soon followed. The locals, mostly Pueblo Indians, could not afford to live in their homes anymore due to the high rents and/or property taxes and now live in small communities outside of New Mexico.
Gentrification and displacement is an issue in San Miguel. Most of the property owners are still Mexican and benefit significantly from charging higher rent or selling to foreigners. However, any locals who rent instead of own are left behind in this change.
I’ve been trying to find answers. And I’ll do a video as soon as I can. SMA is also attractive to wealthy Mexicans. Even in a place like SMA, foreigners are still a small part of the population.
Which neighborhood has these kinds of housing?
3:45 to 5:50
New 1st x subscriber and new fan
Thanks - glad you're here!
The cat looks like a very nice person.
i have to tell you that i had friends who lived in a house in this complex a year ago, and i visited them for a week and had the greatest time in SMA, i'm happy to see you are enjoying it as much as i did!
Michael lives in a great place! I'm jealous.
What a "Debbie Downer" (NOT) He seems truly passionate about his new life ... and good for him ... out of Lemons he made Margaritas and Coffee. 👍👍👍🐈🐕🦺 P n D
Hah! That's a great way to think about it. He really is a happy guy (and he curated a comic book museum!)
In the center of town they have el garden or plaza where people meet and talk.
Why did you not stay longer in MDE? Is your cost of living similuar? Expats in MDE? Same as San Miguel? Thanks
Welcome to Mexico 🇲🇽 you know my house is your house!!!👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🤗
Thank you Silvia!
Loved this...I am so ready to do my Digital Nomad time there.
You can do it!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico It doesn't hurt that I am a fluent Spanish speaker.
Thats really nice
It was a nice little town.
Definitely!
Thank you!
You're welcome!
great story, i love Mexico , considering moving part time, how is the safety their
Most places is Mexico are much much safer than you'd think. I did a video about it here: ua-cam.com/video/_dsXykgSk7c/v-deo.html
So I was curious about the timeframes for the residency steps he took and ability to earn money in mexico as someone considering.
Once you have your temporary residency, you can apply for the right to work - you just need some unique skill to show you aren't taking a job from a Mexican. If you can get permanent residency straight away, then you automatically have the right to work.
I want to move to Mexico for the lifestyle snd the friendly people. A few more years i can retire❤.
Have a friend who moved there 3 years ago. Rents keep going up, foreigners coming in causing prices of everything to jump. Serious medical care hard to come by, he must return to the US for higher end medical care. The weather is great, people nice but one is still a foreigner and will never be accepted as any thing else.
Thanks for sharing. Is he returning to the US because the care isn’t available or because his insurance won’t cover Mexico?
Some people on Medicare will use local medical system for most things, but return to the US for expensive things.
But many younger folks without US insurance get amazing care here (at least in the bigger cities.)
the world nowadays lts like learning to livewith with you Step daughters ,sons its a Brave newworld!! greetings from Usa georgia!!
It's a beautiful place, but unfortunately only for very wealthy people. You can find reasonable places in Queretaro, but now with the exchange rates so low, it's no longer budget friendly there either.
Thanks to biden and pelousy and the commies for crashing the economy.
@reflectionsinthebible3579 and that whole war trying to stop the spread of communism. I thought the right didn't like communism. That seems to have changed when Donald became bros with Putin. At least Biden still cares about protecting Democracies.
@josephsmith961 Micheal is paying just $600 per month, which isn't too bad. But I know what you are saying, SMA is much pricier than QRO. And in my short time in these places, I preferred QRO...
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Sic him bro!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico I moved from Colorado where we were living at 6700 feet and breathing was tough. QRO was up there in altitude too, and I have COPD, so Merida was a better choice for me. It's hotter than 2 rats humping in a wool sock in the summer, but I can still breath without any inhalers. Notice the Trumper deleted his comment hahaha!
Being busy is good, he knows what’s up! What an interesting interview ❤
Thanks Shaun! I agree -idle minds... something something something...
Good and very accurate story. As a fellow photographer I have met Michael a few times. Great guy! His story can be very attainable-SMA has a funny habit of throwing great opportunities and great experiences at you. You can play blind expat or you can open up to the amazing local people and put yourself in a very different and very rewarding world. I came here a year and a half ago on my way to Southeast Asia. I never left!
Thanks for sharing. SMA is a magical place!
The temps there are similar to San Juan De Los Lagos Jalisco . I think in that they're cool highs in the 70s or barely around 80 F degrees . Very pleasant two weeks in July 2008 there . I come from San Antonio Tx and it’s scorching blistering HOT dsys here . In San juan De Los Lagos it rained every day keeping temps down . I carried an umbrella with me everywhere I went . I went to mass at basilica there and spent the days at the different restaurants and markets . At nights spent them at the fountain in front of the Basilica I loved it
That sounds wonderful Frank. thanks for sharing!
This interview was fantastic. Inspiring story and would love to hear more from folks that have stories similar to his.
Thanks David. I have a number of interviews in progress. More stories to come.
Love your videos. Just subscribed. Thinking about early retirement. I've never been to Mexico but am considering San Miguel, Huatulco, or Playa del Carmen.
Mexico is worth considering- and those are three great locations (2 of them hot in the summer.) thanks for subscribing!
Heyyy.. aren’t you the guy from LaPaz? I’d recognize that hat anywhere. Cheers!
Yup - Kat and I live 6 months a year in La Paz. But I travel around Mexico for a few weeks each summer and shoot interviews.
I like that he didn't just try to replicate his US life style but rather carved out a niche for himself in the context of where he now lives. That's called flexibility and using your imagination and having the guts to go for it. I see a lot of real estate videos about Mexico and they mostly push places that only high income people can afford. I keep thinking that the Mexicans don't live like that nor do many of them want to.
Great observations!
I'd like to open an art gallery/teaching space, and sell my art locally and online.... I know a little bit of Spanish un poco lol...
I have a question - most of the houses I see in the area are small with very little land. My ultimate goal is to build a life as an artist, and I want some room to have chickens and to garden - what neighborhoods/nearby communities have a bit more room?
I don't know SMA very well, but you can reach out to Michael through his website: smaadventurehound.com/contact/
Las mismas solo buscar un terrenos con poca contrucción y hacerlo tu a tu gusta 😊
I suggest contacting a real estate agent in SMA to ask about the countryside nearby.
Michael….
I’m just back home in snowy cold New England after a full month in SanMiguel….
I saw you class and wanted to get to it…
But ran out of time!
I did go to the monarch butterfly’s!!!
I’d love to have you as a resource…
My gfriends and I want to get to SanMiguel more frequently!!!
We’ve stayed near the Centro and this time near Fabrica…..
Can you reach out for contact???
You are so resourceful and inspiring….
Diane Z
How were the monarchs? I've wanted to see them, but I heard that this year wasn't the best time because of safety in the area (since Chapo's son was arrested.)
You can reach out the Michael via his website: experiencesma.com/michael-solof-photography
Enjoy IT CONGRATULATION this is one of the place better... in 🇲🇽 Mexico. SAN MIGUEL ALLENDE IS GORGEOUS PEACEFUL AND VERY CULTURAL...ITS A DREAM PKACE MEXICAN PEOPLE ARE DOWN TO EARTH PEOPLE AND VERY FRIENDLY 🇲🇽 😀 🎊 CONGRATULATION 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀 😊 👍 🎊 ♥️ 👏 😀
It really is!
True that about being busier in retirement here than working full time in the states. I've also been in SMA for 3 years. In my experience, few store clerks (outside Centro), tradespeople, cabbies, or vendors speak English. Everyone is experienced with gringos, though, so doing business is no problem, and locals are welcoming whether you can converse with them or not.
So true! And even if folks don’t not speak Spanish, if they are used to speaking to gringos, they know to slow down and use simple language.
he still has the same shirt on from the pic in his dream job!! lol yes, keep your clothes looking good and keep wearing them and having a great time in your life
Hah! Good catch. Good clothing can last a long time ;-)
Michael, I would love to visit you, I too I’m living in the states and looking to relocate to SMA the town the culture just the city looks colorful and serene. Your home is absolutely gorgeous I love it. Your place is inviting . I’m 66 yrs old retired and single I’m currently living in Puerto Rico caring for my elderly mother. When my brothers visit PR I take off on vacation but I only get 7-10 days. I would love to travel to SMA. Give me your thoughts on this . Thank you, Miriam ❤ BTW, we can FaceTime if that is if you like. 😊❤
I’m a fan of your videos and a new subscriber
You can reach out to Michael through his website: smaadventurehound.com/contact/ Enjoy your 7-10 days in SMA!
I’m going soon to San Cristóbal de las casas, Chiapas , is beautiful too!!
There are so many beautiful towns in Mexico! I want to explore them all. Enjoy Chiapas!
Looking for advice on how to transfer funds from Wise to my Mexican bank?
Hmmm... I thought I'd made a video about that, but I haven't yet. I'll add it to the list. But it's pretty easy. You just need your CLABE number from your Mexican bank and you should just be able to walk right through it in the Wise app.
Thank you, looking forward to your video
Dear Michael beautiful video this. I am a retired person from Puerto Rico and will like to visit San Miguel de Allende to know the town and live for a while. I also will like to know others states at Mexico ; did you know about a travel guide that can help me move at the best places of Mexico. Does I can phone you at a number. Thanks for your help cordially yours Rafael 🙏🌞🙏
You can reach Michael thru his website: experiencesma.com/michael-solof-photography
Two travel guide options: www.mexicoforliving.com/ and mexicorelocationguide.com
Thanks for the very nice first hand experience of living in Mexico! I liked and subscribed. Can you get your monthly Social Security money and live there? If so, is there any technical hurdles one must do to receive your SS while not living in the US?
Great questions. Yes, you can get your SS retirement money abroad (SS disability money is a bit different.) You need to file a form every couple years to confirm you're still alive, etc. I'm hoping to do a video specifically about SS retirement abroad.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico What if I'm quasi-nomadic and live in one country or city for a while (maybe at times longer than with a tourist visa) then move on? I was disability for a few years but when I turned 65 they sent a letter saying I was no longer so. I found out nothing would change and it didn't and another Senior told me I'm some kind of slightly different status than regular SS. I might not ever return to the US but not sure depending how my going "out of my comfort zone" goes and Medicare won't I'm told cover me abroad. Is that right?
Very beautiful 😍
Thank you! Cheers!
I'm jealous. How old are you ? Let's be friends, I also love, love coffee. I'm Mexican American born in Los Angeles but do know many places in Mexico. Also have interest in living in Mexico but also have not decided where yet. You have a great life and values. Will start following your website. Adios for now. Gracie D.
This is exciting. I've seen a few videos about the program in Italy that let's you buy old houses cheap. San Miquel is more beautiful than the areas I've seen in Italy, IMO, and much closer for me to get to as I live in Texas. Thanks for the video!
I'm super curious about those programs in Italy, but Mexico is far more convenient - especially if you're from Texas!
How much for his home?
excelent on beautíful your house l loved l giving at very good Credit too you here
on san miguel allende lm from lrapuato GuaNajuato l know is great san migue del allende l loved so mach ❤🤗