We met with the same tension in Cozumel. The lack of typical friendliness, the lack of desire to really mingle, etc., was so strongly obvious. It seemed like they were just completely over the expats. Understandable. Then you go to smaller towns like Valladolid and get to see some of the REAL Mexican culture. Whenever we go somewhere, I typically try to avoid expat communities. Have met some wonderful people, but it just changes things too much for me.

However, every local person I’ve asked about how they feel about ex-pats and how they’ve affected their community say that ex-pats create a better economic environment for them and that makes them glad for their presence. And some ex-pats I’ve met truly do embrace the culture of the country they’re living in and make beneficial contributions to the community, form strong relationships with their neighbors (which are usually locals) and are there out of a sincere love for and desire to become a part of the community/culture.

It really made me challenge how I view myself in terms of long-term traveler or expat without a permanent home.

We chose to travel and live the same way as you. total immersion with no english speakers in sight. It makes the experience so much more real and forces you to think outside the box. Some people just don’t like being uncomfortable or the challenge i guess.

I’m not judging anyone. Just acknowledging I don’t understand a group of people’s way of life or thinking. I’m sure there are many that don’t get mine. We’re all different, and I think that’s wonderful. I’m also acknowledging that particular version of expat life doesn’t work for me. Great that it works for them, though.

I guess it just depends on the island. We were on a much smaller island for 8 months and loved it, but I was diving almost daily, which makes a difference. 🙂

I hope it sticks forever, too!

I love Tigger’s observation…it’s exactly the lesson my kids have reflected on…and I hope it sticks forever!

WOW! Yeah, it’s time to come visit!