Who are you?
A 28 year old English teacher from Portsmouth, England.
Where, when and why did you move abroad?
In 2011, I quit my job in advertising to travel. I completed a CELTA course and travelled to Buenos Aires to teach. I moved to mexico in August 2012.
What challenges did you face during the move?
I only speak Spanish at an intermediate level, so completing paperwork and doing appointment with banks, government offices and immigration was a challenge.How did you find somewhere to live?
I moved into the apartment of the previous teacher. Property is plentiful and cheap in Mexico, so it is easy to find a place to live.
Are there many other expats in your area?
Not many. There are around 10 english teachers and the other foreigners in the area are missionaries, or workers on the wind farms in the area.
What do you think of the food in your new country? What are your particular likes or dislikes?
Likes – the food, the weather, transport, cost of living, proximity to beaches, the job dislikes – not a great social scene, getting personal administration done can be difficult, the pace of life can be too slow, the area is fairly conservative in its customs.
What advice would you give to anyone following in your footsteps?
Do as much research as you can. Bring things from home you can’t buy in Mexico, the postal service is pretty terrible.
What are your plans for the future?
To find another job within the state of Oaxaca.
Phil shares more information about life in Mexico through his blog Tall Travels.