Expats Like Us

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Ever wondered how American expats and immigrants can successfully vote from abroad? This episode's guest—an experienced expat voter—takes us through the essential steps and resources available, like the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP). Learn how to navigate the labyrinth of state-specific rules for absentee voting, and get insider tips on ensuring your ballot makes it back to the U.S. on time. From emailing your vote (where allowed) to using consular services for mailing, our guest's firsthand stories illuminate the process and provide practical advice.
Discover the logistical journey your ballot undertakes—from diplomatic pouches to consular mailrooms—and understand why planning ahead is crucial. The episode also explores alternative methods like FedEx for those last-minute submissions. Whether you've been abroad for a year or a decade, this episode is packed with actionable insights to ensure your voice is heard in American elections, no matter where you are in the world. Tune in to stay connected to your civic duty, even from thousands of miles away.

We are incredibly thankful for engagement and stories from our listeners, who have found their own sense of 'home' across the globe. Stay tuned as we continue to share the wisdom and wanderlust of those who've charted their unique international courses. We'd love to hear your comments and questions. Email them to [email protected]
For more information and content, follow Expats Like Us on Facebook and YouTube

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Ever wondered what it takes to assist American expats and travelers in a foreign land? Today, we offer you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at US consular services through the eyes of Heather Andersen Cayer, a dedicated US consular agent based in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Heather shares her journey from working in tourism and bartending to becoming a pivotal figure in consular services since 2016. Her stories reveal the often overlooked yet critical role these agencies play, from issuing emergency passports to providing support during crises, showcasing the immense relief they bring to US citizens abroad.
Our discussion takes you through the nuanced distinctions between US consulates and consular agencies in Mexico. We break down how consulates, operating under the embassy’s umbrella, handle a broad range of services, including visas, while consular agencies focus on emergency and routine services. Discover the specific roles of consulates and agencies in Quintana Roo, Yucatan, and Campeche, and gain insights into the challenges posed by the visa application backlog post-pandemic. Plus, we offer essential travel tips, emphasizing the importance of adhering to local regulations, carrying proper identification, and the need for travel medical insurance.
Finally, we cover practical advice on navigating the Mexican healthcare system and planning for unexpected events abroad, including obtaining a US death certificate and dealing with legal matters. Heather's personal anecdotes provide a realistic glimpse into the expat experience, from initial excitement to a balanced view of life in a new country. As we wrap up our first season, we reflect on the idea that home is defined by the memories we create and encourage you to explore the world for personal growth. Join us and learn how proactive planning and understanding consular services can make your international adventures smoother and more enjoyable.

We are incredibly thankful for engagement and stories from our listeners, who have found their own sense of 'home' across the globe. Stay tuned as we continue to share the wisdom and wanderlust of those who've charted their unique international courses. We'd love to hear your comments and questions. Email them to [email protected]
For more information and content, follow Expats Like Us on Facebook and YouTube

Send us a text

Retired Chicago area Police Officer Tim Hasty trades his badge for beachside bliss, and we've got the exclusive on his tale of transformation. He and his wife Jane's leap into the unknown, settling into the heart of Mexico, proves that the expat life is not just a dream for the few, but a tangible reality for those bold enough to chase it. Their journey from the safety of all-inclusive resorts to the enchanting life among cenotes and vibrant communities is peppered with skepticism from friends and the discovery of unexpected local treasures. This episode is a passport to the possibilities that await when you embrace a new culture with open arms. Eventually Tim finds his groove in Mezcal and Mole experiences that he guides at Lol-ha, a nearby restaurant popular with visitors and Expats alike.
As we begin our series, the Hasty's tale is a reminder of the rich tapestry that is expat life. Our discussion extends beyond Tim's transition to retirement, offering insights into the financial savvy needed for such a venture, the linguistic leaps required, and the cultural nuances that color everyday life. We are incredibly thankful for the flood of engagement and stories from our listeners, who, like Tim and Jane, have found their own sense of 'home' across the globe. Stay tuned as we continue to share the wisdom and wanderlust of those who've charted their unique international courses.

We are incredibly thankful for engagement and stories from our listeners, who have found their own sense of 'home' across the globe. Stay tuned as we continue to share the wisdom and wanderlust of those who've charted their unique international courses. We'd love to hear your comments and questions. Email them to [email protected]
For more information and content, follow Expats Like Us on Facebook and YouTube

Send us a text

Ever wondered what it's like to trade the familiar comforts of home for a life rich with new culture and simpler pleasures? That's exactly what we, Bob and Sherrie Bosse, alongside Chris and Erica Kovalsky, unpack in a heart-to-heart about our expat adventures in Mexico. From the joy of navigating online shopping to the reality of property taxes, we've got an array of personal stories. Our game of "Que Padre, Que Malo" will have you chuckling and nodding along as we categorize our experiences—some surprisingly delightful and others a tad challenging—as we tried on our new Mexican lifestyles for size.
You will hear about our take on the available technology in Mexico and the unexpected simplicity of staying connected in our adopted homeland. We'll share the quirky triumphs of language learning, the affordability of cell phone plans, and the unbeatable warmth of the local and expat communities that have welcomed us with open arms. Our friends Chris and Erica chip in with firsthand insights into healthcare and road etiquette—because who doesn't love a good story about navigating the "retornos"? So, grab your favorite beverage and join us for a candid conversation that's as much about embracing change as it is about celebrating the rich tapestry of expat life in Mexico.

We are incredibly thankful for engagement and stories from our listeners, who have found their own sense of 'home' across the globe. Stay tuned as we continue to share the wisdom and wanderlust of those who've charted their unique international courses. We'd love to hear your comments and questions. Email them to [email protected]
For more information and content, follow Expats Like Us on Facebook and YouTube

Have you ever pictured a life where every sunrise brings a promise of serenity and health? Scott Lawson did, and he's joining us to recount how his move to Riviera Maya, Mexico with wife Deb transformed not just their surroundings but their well-being. Scott's not just savoring margaritas by the shoreline; he's living an extraordinary tale of personal health rejuvenation—complete with improved mobility and a dramatic drop in blood pressure. His story is woven with the threads of pandemic realizations, compelling us to ponder the essence of life and the healing power of change.
But what does it take to uproot and thrive in Mexico's vibrant tapestry? Scott peels back the curtain on the nitty-gritty of expat life, from the unexpected to the absolutely essential. He navigates us through the rich diversity and economic shifts of his adopted homeland, all while facing his unique mobility challenges head-on. Discover how custom orthotic braces became Scott's ticket to an active lifestyle and listen as he addresses the stark contrasts in accessibility between his old and new worlds. Embark on this episode's journey with us, as Scott Lawson's resilience and adventures offer a passport to reimagining your own life's horizons.

We are incredibly thankful for engagement and stories from our listeners, who have found their own sense of 'home' across the globe. Stay tuned as we continue to share the wisdom and wanderlust of those who've charted their unique international courses. We'd love to hear your comments and questions. Email them to [email protected]
For more information and content, follow Expats Like Us on Facebook and YouTube