Ditching Canada for Mexican Beach Bliss: A Canadian Expat’s Story
Forget snow days, say hello to sunshine! Meet Julia, a go-getter mom who swapped bustling Ontario for the turquoise waters of Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
Intrigued? So were we!
That’s what Julia Naris, a Canadian entrepreneur and mother of three, did in 2021, when she moved from Ontario, Canada, to Playa del Carmen, Mexico. It was one of the best decisions of her life, and she wants to share with you some of the amazing things she’s learned and seen along the way.
The Magic of Mexican
Julia has always been fascinated by Mexican culture. It is colorful, lively, and diverse. She appreciates how Spanish, the second most spoken language in the world, connects her with people from different backgrounds and walks of life. She enjoys how Mexican traditions celebrate life, family, and community. The delicious, spicy, and varied Mexican food also captivates her. Mexico has a way of making her feel alive and happy.
The Adventure of Change
Moving to a new country is not easy. It takes courage, patience, and flexibility. It can be scary, challenging, and stressful at times. But it can also be exciting, rewarding, and fun. Julia learned to embrace the change, not to resist it. She learned to appreciate the differences, not to judge them; to adapt to the new environment, not to cling to the old one; to grow as a person, and not to stay in her comfort zone.
The Beauty of Nature
One of the things that attracted Julia to Playa del Carmen was the stunning natural beauty of the Riviera Maya. It’s like a paradise on earth. The turquoise sea, the white sand, the palm trees, the coral reefs, the cenotes, the wildlife. It’s breathtaking. She feels so lucky to live in a place where she can enjoy nature every day. It gives her peace, joy, and inspiration.
The Warmth of People
Another aspect that Julia loves about living in Mexico is the people. The people in Mexico are known for being friendly, welcoming, and helpful. They are curious and open-minded when it comes to other cultures. Additionally, they are generous and hospitable, making others feel at ease. They embody a fun and easy-going nature, and their passion and expressiveness are remarkable. The kindness and respect they show towards others truly make them the heart and soul of Mexico, and they have made Julia feel at home.
The Joy of Family
When Julia decided to move to Mexico, she wanted to give her kids a better quality of life. She wanted them to have more outdoor activities, more freedom, and more opportunities. She chose to live in a gated community called Silva Mar, where she felt safe and comfortable. It’s a family-oriented place, with a pool, a playground, a gym, and a clubhouse. It’s also close to the beach, the town, and the school. Her kids love it here, and so does she.
The Ease of Healthcare and Education
One of the concerns that many expats have is the healthcare and education system in a foreign country. Julia can tell you that Mexico has a very good and affordable healthcare service. She’s had several medical emergencies and treatments here, and she’s always received prompt, professional, and comprehensive care. She’s never had any problems with the doctors, the hospitals, or the insurance.
Education is also very important for expat families, especially for the kids. Julia’s been very happy with the private school system in Playa del Carmen. The schools are modern, well-equipped, and bilingual. The teachers are qualified, attentive, and adaptable. The curriculum is flexible, diverse, and engaging. Her kids have learned a lot, made friends, and had fun.
The Diversity of Mexico
Mexico is a big and beautiful country, with so much to offer. Julia’s had the chance to travel and explore different regions and cities, and she’s been amazed by the variety and contrast. From the mountains to the beaches, from the deserts to the jungles, from the colonial towns to the modern metropolises. Each place has its own charm, history, and culture. She’s learned so much about Mexico, and she still has so much to see.
The Power of Change
Julia’s story is not unique. Many people have moved to Mexico and changed their lives for the better. It’s not a fairy tale, it’s a reality. It’s not a dream, it’s a choice. It’s not a coincidence, it’s a consequence. Moving to Mexico has been the best thing that ever happened to her. It has opened her eyes, her mind, and her heart. It has made her a happier, healthier, and wiser person. It has made her part of something bigger than herself. It has made her part of Mexico.
Listen to the Podcast:
Expat Life in Mexico: Cost of Living, Education, and Cultural Experiences
Join us for an insightful discussion with Julia Naris, an entrepreneur and mother of three from Ontario, Canada, who made a life-changing move to Playa del Carmen, Mexico, in 2021 with her family. Her husband also works remotely, allowing them to embrace a new adventure in a different country. In this interview, Julia shares her experiences with the Mexican culture, cost of living, healthcare, education, and the vibrant community she’s become a part of.
