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Here is a sample of our interview. The full interview is available on our podcast and youtube channel.

What is the situation in Mexico City with the Corona Virus? Has the lockdown been strict?

Many have died, and there’s been a lot of economic devastation – it depends on each state, some are stricter than others.

How have you found the healthcare system in Mexico?  Any concerns?

It’s a lot better than the US – still has its problems, of course. Some people have had bad experiences – but most expats have had a phenomenal experience.

Do you have insurance or just pay for what you need?

Insurance is on my to-do list, but later on. I do qualify for state-healthcare. It is government provided and regulated – I can use a public hospital if I need it.

How long have you been in CDMX?  You were living there before for how long?

Almost a year and a half – I also lived here before in 2005-2006.

Does that require any visas?

I have a Mexican green card – it is my temporary residency.

How did you pick CDMX?

It has beautiful climate – and the airport has many direct flights to different cities. There’s also a lot of great communities – people are very kind. The food is the best.

What would you say are the advantages to living in Mexico?

The healthcare system is great. The infrastructure is great – there is great proximity within cities.

What do you do in CDMX to connect with people? Where are you finding friends? Work/volunteer/other expats/clubs/classes?

I have friends that I’ve kept in touch with from the first time I lived in CDMX – I also like to join groups that are promoted by bookstores or cultural centers.

Do you have a car?

No. I use the subway (metro) – you don’t need to have a car here. It’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in Mexico.

How do you feel about the safety in CDMX and traveling in Mexico?

I’ve been lucky nothing’s ever happened to me – most cities are very safe, like Yucatán. CDMX is not the best, not the worst – there is a lot of armed robbery, but murder rates are relatively low.

What is your cost of living there vs in the US? (Rent, food, entertainment)

For transportation, I use about $20 a year for bike services and less than 25 cents for a metro ride. Rent is around $500 a month. A few thousand a month is enough to live comfortably.

How do you get money from the US to Mexico?  Do you have a bank account in Mexico and transfer?

I opened a bank account at HSBC in Hermosillo – then later I opened another checking account with BBVA. I didn’t have the best experiences with these banks so I just use my Tucson Federal Credit Union account and my US-based credit card – it comes with a small exchange fee, but it’s worth it to me.

Any surprises/learnings/things you wish you knew?

I would say get an immigration attorney. Before you rent/buy a home, visit it several times before throughout different times of the day to get a better feel for it.