Brighton, my biggest nice surprise was the lack of ageism in Mexico. In the U.S. there came a time when I noticed I was ignored by store clerks. Laughed at by a group of teenagers walking by when I said hello. Just generally looked through by people, as if I didn’t exist. Being in a country where I’ll be walking down the street and have people from age 5 to age 95 say hello to this 60 year old woman, gives you such a warm feeling, and a sense of belonging.
Thank you so much for sharing! This is something I totally overlooked. But now that I think about it, there is such a respect for older people in Mexico. One thing coming to mind: in the US when older people drive slower they get mocked and honked at. In Mexico, people drive around them politely because they understand they are just being safe based on their abilities. I need to do a video about this! Thanks for the idea.
Here I find the older you are the safer you drive (sorta) If slow is safe then they drive "safer". You'd think as we age we'd want to drive faster as there's so little time left. We all have a Best Before time. Just the date stamp is a bit blurry. @@AlmostRetiredinMexico
Is that true? Woo-freaking-hoo! I don’t like feeling invisible, but being mocked or figuratively being “patted on the head” by younger people is the worst! I look forward to that cultural shift.
We mexican people hold in high regard people that are older. We believe we should be extra polite, respectful and attentive, just from our culture. At least, most of us follow that. We are taught to say hi or to help in what we can.
I concur with everything Ean and Kristy said about living in Ajijic Mexico. Overall the people are kind, respectful and polite. Not judgmental or confrontational like in the US. I am definitely living my best life in Ajijic Mexico. And when I see you m, Ean and Kristi I will be sure to say hi. Thanks Brighton for another informative video.
Another terrific interview Brighton! You do not shy away from stories that really touch a person's heart of hearts! In my extended family we have many gay family members both on the Caucasian side and the Hispanic side. When my niece came out on the Hispanic side she received open arms and acceptance even though her parents and Tios are Catholic... so yeah it can happen. THANKS for sharing this story!!
I LOVE this story!! I also had tears in my eyes hearing Ean and Christie's experience of being and feeling accepted in Mexico. Makes me so proud of them for the courage to move to Ajijic and their adopted community for being so lovely.
This is a fantastic story! All anyone wants is to be themselves and not be judged. I'm so happy that these women have found that in Mexico. I follow two channels that feature gay men and they talk about the same thing, being accepted. Same with the channels with black people who I follow, they mention acceptance. The U.S. is very ugly now and I feel it will only get worse, it's good that some people are able to move to an all-around nicer country. Great interview!
Thanks Cindy. The US has really taken a turn for the worse. I can't imagine being gay or trans or Black and being stuck in a state where people are just nasty towards anyone who is not like them. I hope those folks can escape to the west coast if they aren't able to escape internationally!
"...wants is to be themselves and not be judged". Except conservatives. The most narrow minded people I EVER met overseas were recent University graduates. If you aren't leftist, they completely shun you. Leftists are marching in support of terrorists, this week. Not be judged?
Ugh - here goes the "leftists don't accept conservatives" argument. I have no problem with conservatives. I'd have a beer with GW Bush right now. Or Reagan. Or Liz Cheney. But in the past few years the right has focused on identity politics, attacking LGBTQ people, conspiracy theories, etc. BTW, people on the left are marching in support of Palestinians. If they are marching in support of Hamas, then that is awful. If you really think they are marching in support of Hamas, then you are just a great example of how right-wing media manipulates their viewers.
Mostly "they" focus on disruption, disagreeing with any idea that isn't coming from Q and and the need to be loud and obnoxious while offering nothing except more of the same in return. @@AlmostRetiredinMexico
Several of my friends have moved to Mexico, they keep saying the quality of life is better there. I have no idea what that would feel like or what that really means, but I'm going to find out. And I'm so excited..
I literally just met this couple. The day before your release of this video. Nice couple. They talked nicely about the area. Ride around in their golf cart. Great interview.
This was a timely video for me to see, since It’s really important to me that I find a place in Mexico with inclusive and progressive people. It’s not just about people minding their own business, it’s also about actively accepting and supporting many types of people, family structures, and lives. Adds another + to the Ajijic pros and cons list for me. Nice interview, Brighton! Ean and Christie did a great job as well. Thank you all for sharing this story.
Ajijic is definitely a progressive area in terms of expats. I can't say that Mexicans are progressive around these issues. It's just an acceptance of anyone who is living their life. I wonder how many "allies" you'd find in the Mexican population. Maybe allies are less necessary in an accepting society. As to expats, a researcher did a study of expats in Ajijic compared to expats in PV. Ajijic expats have way more education and progressive values. It's a pretty stark comparison. But PV also has a large gay population... So much to learn!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Im just an old hetero lady, and as I understand it, there are thousands of us in Ajijic. But I couldn’t date anyone who is a caveman about human rights and social issues. And, as of last night, La Paz is back on my radar so I’ll be looking at that while I’m there in February. I expect a Happy Hour in my honor!
@@kathleenkane7274 I totally understand! For years employers have found that having inclusive policies is a necessity for attracting good talent (straight, gay, etc.) People don't want to be around bigots. What changed last night for La Paz?
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico a good friend’s brother and his partner are settled in El Centenario. My friend put me in touch with him, and after two glasses of wine, I booked an AirBnB for a week following my trip to Guadalajara, Ajijic and Chapala. He’s willing to play tour guide for a few days at least, and why not? Otherwise I’ll always wonder…
@@kathleenkane7274 Very nice. I look forward to chatting in person at your special happy hour! Who is your friend? I don't know everyone in El Centenario, but a few of the gringos...
Horrible for a parent to do that to their child. I think Mexicans, if not necessarily ‘accepting’, would never throw their family under the bus, so to speak. Whereas Americans, I’ve seen them treat their own kids/ families in a shockingly callous manner. The sense of family/ group coherence is much greater in Mexican culture and others, like East European, Russian etc.
Great comparison to Eastern Europe, etc. Family is a different concept in Mexico. I'm interested to meet some gay Mexicans to hear their story of growing up and coming out.
A great interview, so nice you can just be yourself, and not worry about what others think. Thank you for sharing this story! I do appreciate the all-inclusive rent, $1400 seems like a lot, but then you don't have any small bills, except your phone, and misc.
@AlmostretiredinMexico I just realized this is a little bit older video so I don’t know if my comment will be addressed. I did see the name of the realtor though after my comment. I would be interested to find out more about living specifically in that community and if there are units available for rent. For us 1400 a month would be reasonable only because it would be less than what we pay now between our mortgage and utilities, etc. etc. our utilities alone between buying Oil For the furnace and the electricity bill was $1200 less winter in the US. We do have a big house but do not need so much space this place where Christie and Ian live looks perfect for our family. This would be a great environment for my mom as right now she does not socialize much at all. We kind of live in the sticks. So she really needs a change at 86 yrs old to have some fulfillment in her last yrs.
Okay, I love this story. Congratulations, ladies! My husband and I are considering a move to Ajijic, as well. We currently live in Atlanta, and, like you, we are totally over the U.S. and are ready for a change. Perhaps our paths will cross. 🙂
This is a beautiful story and I’m so happy for these ladies that they came to Mexico and found a welcoming and accepting community in which to live. I’ve had the same experience being a black transgender woman who emigrated from the US about 3 years ago to Mexico. I’ve lived in Puerto Vallarta, San Cristobal de Las Casas and I’m now in Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca and I agree completely with them on their assessment of Mexican people and how they treat you. The difference between the US and Mexico is like night and day. I can only say good things about the people. They have been kind, patient, welcoming, helpful, respectful, courteous and generous. Being transgender in the US you’re often concerned about whether you’ll be treated courteously and professionally when you seek healthcare or have to go to a pharmacy, here I’ve always been treated with kindness and respect and I get my medications over the counter no prescriptions required and at a fraction of the cost in the US. I don’t have people judging me for my appearance either in Mexico like people so often did in the states. And no one is proselytizing in the street saying you’re going to hell for being a “sinner.” So I love Mexico and I have no intentions of ever living in the US again.
Thank you for sharing your story! I've wondered how well trans people were treated. I assumed it was the same as everyone else - kindness and acceptance. But I've not met any trans people (that I know of) in Mexico. I'm so happy to hear this - and glad you've found a place that accepts you!
“I just want to be myself and respected”. Love that. I grew up in a very conservative town and I’m very progressive. I couldn’t wait to move to the West Coast. But over 30 years and it really took a toll financially but it was worth it. Now I need to rethink where I live due to retirement.
Novel. Living like a human. Let me say 1 of Pam's best friends is Gay. He was at our wedding and he is a very nice guy. He came out to his mother decades ago and she simply told him I know I'm your mother. Her only concerns were he be healthy and happy. Gee... Also a novel idea. Thank You for another good 1 Mr. B. P n D
Thanks Dave! I’m sure Ean’s parents knew too, but were too repressed to acknowledge it. But such a shame that people claiming to be religious could treat family like that. Glad your friend’s story was better!
Remember the ol song... Why can't we be friends ? Well ? Why ? Diversity is what makes the world keep spinning . @@AlmostRetiredinMexico 🎶 and what's wrong with that ?
Well I'm taken aback . Tisk. I agree about the need BUT also the need to expand your horizons. The worlds highest tides, a lighthouse and post office built on rocks (Peggy's Cove) Fresh North Atlantic Lobster and more... Including us. lol @@AlmostRetiredinMexico
Ajijic I'm finding is the gay mecca for people. This was a great interview. My best friend is gay and I'm black. To find a place where your treated like a human, as opposed to a label is awesome. I do think Mexico is accepting to a point and making an effort to make changes (what I have read).
I think you're right. Ajijic and PV are both gay meccas. Mexico is far ahead of the US when it comes to treating people well, but you're right, they still have some issues and they are working through them.
Hey Brighton! Awesome interview again! Thank you so much! Please pass on my love to Ean and Kristi! 🥰. They had a look at my home in Lomas del Lago when they first arrived in Ajijic, and we had a joyful, wonderful visit at my place! I have very fond memories of them, and am totally thrilled to find out through your video that they found a gorgeous, spacious, perfect HOME SWEET HOME to rent for themselves and their precious furry friends! They truely deserve the best, and I am thrilled to hear that they are thriving! I totally agree with their perception of Mexicans being welcoming and nonjudgmental, and that life in Mexico is awesome! Ean and Kristi are a perfect example that in Mexico, we receive what we put out there. Generosity is met with generosity, and a smiling, loving face is greeted with a smiling loving face! Blessings on all five of you! 🥰👣👣👣🐾🐾 Helena
Fantastic video. This may not be on topic buy I am looking at Ajicic for my 86 yr old mother and I to move to. They say it’s great for Elder care. I am her primary care giver but I want to give her to have a life where she can socialize with her peers (she’s a social butterfly) and also swim everyday. What got my attention from your video that relates to us is we would need a three bedroom and a place that allows dogs which I see you have your dog, which is awesome. Would you be able to give me any info as to where you are and if there are other units similar for rent? We are going to be selling our home in the US and are trying to decide where in Mexico would be best for us. I would like to get involved in the dog rescue there also so it seems to be a good place for us to start and maybe finish.
How you see the rent amount depends on where you are coming from, because for myself coming from New York City 1400 for a 3 bedroom and more than 3 bathrooms( especially including the extras with the rent)is beyond a steal. lol.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico it does but not in a lot of people price range. Lol. Both of the women are such genuine people and I’m happy that they found a place we’re they can have peace, happiness and respect.
@tracymorgan5386 That makes sense! I guess there are a few ultra-rich folks in NYC that probably have a few extra bathrooms or gold toilets. Thanks much!
Just for reference: In 2015 the Supreme Court of Mexico decided that there was no legal basis to deny marriage to same sex couples. In Jalisco, where Ajijic is located, same sex marriage was legalized in 2022. Currently Same sex marriage is legal in 28 of the 32 states in Mexico.
You are the first TH-camr to cover this and I am forever great-full. I am trying to talk my wife into going to Mexico because I have heard that most people there don’t ’govern you’ like they do in the US. We are a lesbian couple, but I am also a male to female trans woman. Maybe one day we can start a lesbian/trans traveling vblog going around Mexico. You have given me a renewed sense of hope. ❤❤❤
Living your truth is beautiful.... so happy you (Ean and Christie) found each other and found your peace. ☮☮I live in Portland Oregon 8 months a year and that condo you are in 3/3 for $1400 all in? gosh that would easily be $4K here all in...including maid, gardener, wifi, garbage, etc.
How many places in the US come with a maid and gardener? It's just so much more common in Mexico. For instance, we have a caretaker and every-other-week cleaners in Mexico and in Portland, that's all up to us!
So glad to hear this interview. I am happy for them. I wonder whether the acceptance has anything to do with the existence of muxe, a Zapotec third gender recognized in Oaxaca. According to this video, muxe do encounter some discrimination, but the situation is gradually improving. Of course, Ajijic isn’t in Oaxaca, but the rest of Mexico no doubt is aware of the longstanding muxe tradition. th-cam.com/video/9FmPG5SRp5s/w-d-xo.htmlsi=2pnJOYNoehxrgoBu
Thanks for sharing about Muxes! I just watched the video. But I don't think it has so much to do with traditionally recognizing a 3rd gender as much as it is just being accepting of other people.
I think 1400 is Avery good price ESPECIALLY since it includes all that you mentioned plus a gardener and gated community/ I’d like to get in touch with your realtor rental helper
As a lesbian myself, I would never identify Ian as a lesbian or a female. Because they look like a straight couple, and Ian's name is male, I'm sure that helps them to not be harassed.
That's interesting! It didn't occur to me. I think if you met Ean in person, you'd be more likely to identify her as female. I don't think I did a good job of making that come through in the video.
@loverofsong9830 I love your comment. It really doesn't matter what anyone else thinks. It only matters how they self-identify. And in Mexico, no one cares. In the US, they were shunned because of who they are.
Because it's who they are. They were forced to hide their truth for years! For instance, Kristi couldn't go to her work Christmas party because her spouse was Ean. Ean would never have been allowed to introduce Kristi to her parents. It's not like hiding what your favorite color is. Sexual orientation is a key part of identity. Think of it like this: say you are disabled and not able to walk. But you can't let anyone know that. So you have to hide. You can only be somewhere where you are seated and you can never move from that spot until everyone else has left (except maybe the few people who you've shared your secret with.) Does that help explain it?
Hi Brighton, since we’re profiling small, atypical social groups in Mexico, how about a couple videos on the Muslim community in Mexico? Both expats and actual Mexicans. Thanks!
It's sad that in a comment thread full of beautiful, loving comments you post a nasty, toxic masculinity based comment. Why? Did it make you feel better? Did it reaffirm your idea of what masculinity is i.e. not showing emotion that isn't anger? Does NOT tearing up over a moving story about discrimination, parental rejection, and finding a community offering love and acceptance make you feel like more of a "man"? smh Your toxic gender ideals and negativity is exactly why so many want to move out of the USA and countries that are similar. Please do better and if you can't please don't bring your toxicity to an unpolluted community or country.
This is a wonderful episode.So happy to see this.
Thank you!
Brighton, my biggest nice surprise was the lack of ageism in Mexico.
In the U.S. there came a time when I noticed I was ignored by store clerks. Laughed at by a group of teenagers walking by when I said hello. Just generally looked through by people, as if I didn’t exist.
Being in a country where I’ll be walking down the street and have people from age 5 to age 95 say hello to this 60 year old woman, gives you such a warm feeling, and a sense of belonging.
It is lovely!
Kindness is just a way of being here. How novel!
Thank you so much for sharing! This is something I totally overlooked. But now that I think about it, there is such a respect for older people in Mexico. One thing coming to mind: in the US when older people drive slower they get mocked and honked at. In Mexico, people drive around them politely because they understand they are just being safe based on their abilities.
I need to do a video about this! Thanks for the idea.
Here I find the older you are the safer you drive (sorta) If slow is safe then they drive "safer". You'd think as we age we'd want to drive faster as there's so little time left. We all have a Best Before time. Just the date stamp is a bit blurry. @@AlmostRetiredinMexico
Is that true? Woo-freaking-hoo! I don’t like feeling invisible, but being mocked or figuratively being “patted on the head” by younger people is the worst! I look forward to that cultural shift.
We mexican people hold in high regard people that are older. We believe we should be extra polite, respectful and attentive, just from our culture. At least, most of us follow that. We are taught to say hi or to help in what we can.
Beautiful couple! So much love and kindness to you. Enjoy your wonderful new life in Mexico♥️♥️♥️
I agree - thanks for your kind words!
I concur with everything Ean and Kristy said about living in Ajijic Mexico. Overall the people are kind, respectful and polite. Not judgmental or confrontational like in the US. I am definitely living my best life in Ajijic Mexico. And when I see you m, Ean and Kristi I will be sure to say hi. Thanks Brighton for another informative video.
So glad you’re experiencing the same thing! Say hi to Ean and Kristi for me (I know you’ll run across them soon in Ajijic!)
Another terrific interview Brighton! You do not shy away from stories that really touch a person's heart of hearts! In my extended family we have many gay family members both on the Caucasian side and the Hispanic side. When my niece came out on the Hispanic side she received open arms and acceptance even though her parents and Tios are Catholic... so yeah it can happen. THANKS for sharing this story!!
Thanks for sharing about your niece. I'm happy to hear that the acceptance continues at the family level! At least in her case.
Really appreciate this interview Brighton. The world is a pretty hostile place for us. Glad you guys found some peace. Would love to join you!
Thanks Richard. Mexico is just such an accepting place!
I LOVE this story!! I also had tears in my eyes hearing Ean and Christie's experience of being and feeling accepted in Mexico. Makes me so proud of them for the courage to move to Ajijic and their adopted community for being so lovely.
Thanks Kat. I teared up at the part where Ian decided to be from Venus instead of Mars!
This is a fantastic story! All anyone wants is to be themselves and not be judged. I'm so happy that these women have found that in Mexico. I follow two channels that feature gay men and they talk about the same thing, being accepted. Same with the channels with black people who I follow, they mention acceptance. The U.S. is very ugly now and I feel it will only get worse, it's good that some people are able to move to an all-around nicer country. Great interview!
Thanks Cindy. The US has really taken a turn for the worse. I can't imagine being gay or trans or Black and being stuck in a state where people are just nasty towards anyone who is not like them. I hope those folks can escape to the west coast if they aren't able to escape internationally!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Agree!
"...wants is to be themselves and not be judged".
Except conservatives.
The most narrow minded people I EVER met overseas were recent University graduates. If you aren't leftist, they completely shun you.
Leftists are marching in support of terrorists, this week.
Not be judged?
Ugh - here goes the "leftists don't accept conservatives" argument. I have no problem with conservatives. I'd have a beer with GW Bush right now. Or Reagan. Or Liz Cheney.
But in the past few years the right has focused on identity politics, attacking LGBTQ people, conspiracy theories, etc.
BTW, people on the left are marching in support of Palestinians. If they are marching in support of Hamas, then that is awful. If you really think they are marching in support of Hamas, then you are just a great example of how right-wing media manipulates their viewers.
Mostly "they" focus on disruption, disagreeing with any idea that isn't coming from Q and and the need to be loud and obnoxious while offering nothing except more of the same in return. @@AlmostRetiredinMexico
Several of my friends have moved to Mexico, they keep saying the quality of life is better there. I have no idea what that would feel like or what that really means, but I'm going to find out. And I'm so excited..
Thank you for this segment.
I'm happy to be able to share their story!
I literally just met this couple. The day before your release of this video. Nice couple. They talked nicely about the area. Ride around in their golf cart.
Great interview.
Such a small world! Glad you met them in person.
This was a timely video for me to see, since It’s really important to me that I find a place in Mexico with inclusive and progressive people. It’s not just about people minding their own business, it’s also about actively accepting and supporting many types of people, family structures, and lives. Adds another + to the Ajijic pros and cons list for me.
Nice interview, Brighton! Ean and Christie did a great job as well. Thank you all for sharing this story.
Ajijic is definitely a progressive area in terms of expats. I can't say that Mexicans are progressive around these issues. It's just an acceptance of anyone who is living their life. I wonder how many "allies" you'd find in the Mexican population. Maybe allies are less necessary in an accepting society.
As to expats, a researcher did a study of expats in Ajijic compared to expats in PV. Ajijic expats have way more education and progressive values. It's a pretty stark comparison. But PV also has a large gay population...
So much to learn!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Im just an old hetero lady, and as I understand it, there are thousands of us in Ajijic. But I couldn’t date anyone who is a caveman about human rights and social issues.
And, as of last night, La Paz is back on my radar so I’ll be looking at that while I’m there in February. I expect a Happy Hour in my honor!
@@kathleenkane7274 I totally understand! For years employers have found that having inclusive policies is a necessity for attracting good talent (straight, gay, etc.) People don't want to be around bigots.
What changed last night for La Paz?
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico a good friend’s brother and his partner are settled in El Centenario. My friend put me in touch with him, and after two glasses of wine, I booked an AirBnB for a week following my trip to Guadalajara, Ajijic and Chapala. He’s willing to play tour guide for a few days at least, and why not? Otherwise I’ll always wonder…
@@kathleenkane7274 Very nice. I look forward to chatting in person at your special happy hour! Who is your friend? I don't know everyone in El Centenario, but a few of the gringos...
Thank you for sharing. Much love to both of you.
Same to you!
Lovely video
Thank you!
Thank you Brighton. Much Love. ❤️
You are so welcome!
Horrible for a parent to do that to their child. I think Mexicans, if not necessarily ‘accepting’, would never throw their family under the bus, so to speak. Whereas Americans, I’ve seen them treat their own kids/ families in a shockingly callous manner. The sense of family/ group coherence is much greater in Mexican culture and others, like East European, Russian etc.
Great comparison to Eastern Europe, etc. Family is a different concept in Mexico. I'm interested to meet some gay Mexicans to hear their story of growing up and coming out.
I too appreciate this story 👍🤩
A great interview, so nice you can just be yourself, and not worry about what others think. Thank you for sharing this story! I do appreciate the all-inclusive rent, $1400 seems like a lot, but then you don't have any small bills, except your phone, and misc.
$1400 is pretty high, but this was brand new construction and 3 beds / baths. Definitely built for the more upscale market.
It worked for them, that's the most important! Thank you!
@AlmostretiredinMexico I just realized this is a little bit older video so I don’t know if my comment will be addressed. I did see the name of the realtor though after my comment. I would be interested to find out more about living specifically in that community and if there are units available for rent. For us 1400 a month would be reasonable only because it would be less than what we pay now between our mortgage and utilities, etc. etc. our utilities alone between buying Oil For the furnace and the electricity bill was $1200 less winter in the US. We do have a big house but do not need so much space this place where Christie and Ian live looks perfect for our family. This would be a great environment for my mom as right now she does not socialize much at all. We kind of live in the sticks. So she really needs a change at 86 yrs old to have some fulfillment in her last yrs.
wonderful story, Great lady's
Thank you Jorge!
It is not a matter of judgement - God is the judge and he knows what lifestyle will make them truly happy and complete.
oh my gosh, i just asked you for this yesterday...so glad they made a safe landing in Mexico!
Yup - your comment made me remember this was sitting in my "to be edited box" and I decided to edit it up and post it this morning.
Okay, I love this story. Congratulations, ladies! My husband and I are considering a move to Ajijic, as well. We currently live in Atlanta, and, like you, we are totally over the U.S. and are ready for a change. Perhaps our paths will cross. 🙂
You can do it! Mexico is calling your names 😀🇲🇽
Did Ian work in Atlanta? I knew a Jeff Ganek years ago in Atlanta. And Olglethorpe is in Atlanta. Small world.
Yes. She was in Atlanta. BTW, I lived in Atlanta for 10 years. 1996-2006
This is a beautiful story and I’m so happy for these ladies that they came to Mexico and found a welcoming and accepting community in which to live. I’ve had the same experience being a black transgender woman who emigrated from the US about 3 years ago to Mexico. I’ve lived in Puerto Vallarta, San Cristobal de Las Casas and I’m now in Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca and I agree completely with them on their assessment of Mexican people and how they treat you. The difference between the US and Mexico is like night and day. I can only say good things about the people. They have been kind, patient, welcoming, helpful, respectful, courteous and generous. Being transgender in the US you’re often concerned about whether you’ll be treated courteously and professionally when you seek healthcare or have to go to a pharmacy, here I’ve always been treated with kindness and respect and I get my medications over the counter no prescriptions required and at a fraction of the cost in the US. I don’t have people judging me for my appearance either in Mexico like people so often did in the states. And no one is proselytizing in the street saying you’re going to hell for being a “sinner.” So I love Mexico and I have no intentions of ever living in the US again.
Thank you for sharing your story! I've wondered how well trans people were treated. I assumed it was the same as everyone else - kindness and acceptance. But I've not met any trans people (that I know of) in Mexico. I'm so happy to hear this - and glad you've found a place that accepts you!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico it was my pleasure and thank you for giving space to lgbtq+ folks!
Welcome home!
@@gabrielagoeckner350 thank you! Now I’m going to learn Spanish so I can more readily integrate into the community.
“I just want to be myself and respected”. Love that. I grew up in a very conservative town and I’m very progressive. I couldn’t wait to move to the West Coast. But over 30 years and it really took a toll financially but it was worth it. Now I need to rethink where I live due to retirement.
Novel. Living like a human. Let me say 1 of Pam's best friends is Gay. He was at our wedding and he is a very nice guy. He came out to his mother decades ago and she simply told him I know I'm your mother. Her only concerns were he be healthy and happy. Gee... Also a novel idea. Thank You for another good 1 Mr. B. P n D
Thanks Dave! I’m sure Ean’s parents knew too, but were too repressed to acknowledge it. But such a shame that people claiming to be religious could treat family like that. Glad your friend’s story was better!
Remember the ol song... Why can't we be friends ? Well ? Why ? Diversity is what makes the world keep spinning . @@AlmostRetiredinMexico 🎶 and what's wrong with that ?
We can be friends Dave! You just need to get to Mexico because I'm not going north!
Well I'm taken aback . Tisk. I agree about the need BUT also the need to expand your horizons. The worlds highest tides, a lighthouse and post office built on rocks (Peggy's Cove) Fresh North Atlantic Lobster and more... Including us. lol @@AlmostRetiredinMexico
@davebaker489 I've been to Quebec, but not east of that (in the US or Canada.) Someday... in the summer...
What a story!
Thanks for watching!
Ajijic I'm finding is the gay mecca for people. This was a great interview. My best friend is gay and I'm black. To find a place where your treated like a human, as opposed to a label is awesome. I do think Mexico is accepting to a point and making an effort to make changes (what I have read).
I think you're right. Ajijic and PV are both gay meccas. Mexico is far ahead of the US when it comes to treating people well, but you're right, they still have some issues and they are working through them.
Hey Brighton! Awesome interview again! Thank you so much! Please pass on my love to Ean and Kristi! 🥰. They had a look at my home in Lomas del Lago when they first arrived in Ajijic, and we had a joyful, wonderful visit at my place! I have very fond memories of them, and am totally thrilled to find out through your video that they found a gorgeous, spacious, perfect HOME SWEET HOME to rent for themselves and their precious furry friends! They truely deserve the best, and I am thrilled to hear that they are thriving!
I totally agree with their perception of Mexicans being welcoming and nonjudgmental, and that life in Mexico is awesome!
Ean and Kristi are a perfect example that in Mexico, we receive what we put out there. Generosity is met with generosity, and a smiling, loving
face is greeted with a smiling loving face! Blessings on all five of you! 🥰👣👣👣🐾🐾 Helena
Fantastic video. This may not be on topic buy I am looking at Ajicic for my 86 yr old mother and I to move to. They say it’s great for Elder care. I am her primary care giver but I want to give her to have a life where she can socialize with her peers (she’s a social butterfly) and also swim everyday. What got my attention from your video that relates to us is we would need a three bedroom and a place that allows dogs which I see you have your dog, which is awesome. Would you be able to give me any info as to where you are and if there are other units similar for rent? We are going to be selling our home in the US and are trying to decide where in Mexico would be best for us. I would like to get involved in the dog rescue there also so it seems to be a good place for us to start and maybe finish.
How hard is it to find a place with 8 dogs 2 cats.?
A rental? That might be hard to find! But not impossible. Maybe something a bit more rural.
How you see the rent amount depends on where you are coming from, because for myself coming from New York City 1400 for a 3 bedroom and more than 3 bathrooms( especially including the extras with the rent)is beyond a steal. lol.
So true! It's pricey for most places in Mexico. But Ajijic is near the top of the market. Do 3 bedroom / 3 bath places even exist in NYC?
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico it does but not in a lot of people price range. Lol. Both of the women are such genuine people and I’m happy that they found a place we’re they can have peace, happiness and respect.
@tracymorgan5386 That makes sense! I guess there are a few ultra-rich folks in NYC that probably have a few extra bathrooms or gold toilets. Thanks much!
Just for reference:
In 2015 the Supreme Court of Mexico decided that there was no legal basis to deny marriage to same sex couples.
In Jalisco, where Ajijic is located, same sex marriage was legalized in 2022.
Currently Same sex marriage is legal in 28 of the 32 states in Mexico.
Thanks for sharing
You are the first TH-camr to cover this and I am forever great-full. I am trying to talk my wife into going to Mexico because I have heard that most people there don’t ’govern you’ like they do in the US. We are a lesbian couple, but I am also a male to female trans woman. Maybe one day we can start a lesbian/trans traveling vblog going around Mexico. You have given me a renewed sense of hope. ❤❤❤
You definitely need to try Mexico. Things are just nasty in the US right now. I think that would be a great travel blog. Have fun!
Live in South Carolina, you wave they turn their head to the other side...without no response...I just stop waving....Im latina...😌
Sorry! The American South is an interesting place...
Living your truth is beautiful.... so happy you (Ean and Christie) found each other and found your peace. ☮☮I live in Portland Oregon 8 months a year and that condo you are in 3/3 for $1400 all in? gosh that would easily be $4K here all in...including maid, gardener, wifi, garbage, etc.
How many places in the US come with a maid and gardener? It's just so much more common in Mexico. For instance, we have a caretaker and every-other-week cleaners in Mexico and in Portland, that's all up to us!
So glad to hear this interview. I am happy for them.
I wonder whether the acceptance has anything to do with the existence of muxe, a Zapotec third gender recognized in Oaxaca. According to this video, muxe do encounter some discrimination, but the situation is gradually improving. Of course, Ajijic isn’t in Oaxaca, but the rest of Mexico no doubt is aware of the longstanding muxe tradition. th-cam.com/video/9FmPG5SRp5s/w-d-xo.htmlsi=2pnJOYNoehxrgoBu
Thanks for sharing about Muxes! I just watched the video.
But I don't think it has so much to do with traditionally recognizing a 3rd gender as much as it is just being accepting of other people.
Cruelty and prejudice towards gay and lesbian people is disgraceful
I agree!
So sick of the hateful Right wing Conservatives! So glad they are happy in Mexico 🇲🇽 💙😁🥰🌈
I think 1400 is Avery good price ESPECIALLY since it includes all that you mentioned plus a gardener and gated community/ I’d like to get in touch with your realtor rental helper
Rock on!!!
Thanks Mary!
As a lesbian myself, I would never identify Ian as a lesbian or a female. Because they look like a straight couple, and Ian's name is male, I'm sure that helps them to not be harassed.
That's interesting! It didn't occur to me. I think if you met Ean in person, you'd be more likely to identify her as female. I don't think I did a good job of making that come through in the video.
I did the same thing. I thought Ean was a male.
@loverofsong9830 I love your comment. It really doesn't matter what anyone else thinks. It only matters how they self-identify. And in Mexico, no one cares. In the US, they were shunned because of who they are.
Why tell you are gay?
Thank you. Queretaro.
Because it's who they are. They were forced to hide their truth for years! For instance, Kristi couldn't go to her work Christmas party because her spouse was Ean. Ean would never have been allowed to introduce Kristi to her parents.
It's not like hiding what your favorite color is. Sexual orientation is a key part of identity. Think of it like this: say you are disabled and not able to walk. But you can't let anyone know that. So you have to hide. You can only be somewhere where you are seated and you can never move from that spot until everyone else has left (except maybe the few people who you've shared your secret with.)
Does that help explain it?
Why not?
Nothing but love for those two ladies❤️❤️🇲🇽
Thank you! ♥♥
Hi Brighton, since we’re profiling small, atypical social groups in Mexico, how about a couple videos on the Muslim community in Mexico? Both expats and actual Mexicans. Thanks!
Brighton, you were “actually tearing up” hearing these two? Not so sure about you, man ;). Love most of your videos, though.
It's sad that in a comment thread full of beautiful, loving comments you post a nasty, toxic masculinity based comment. Why? Did it make you feel better? Did it reaffirm your idea of what masculinity is i.e. not showing emotion that isn't anger? Does NOT tearing up over a moving story about discrimination, parental rejection, and finding a community offering love and acceptance make you feel like more of a "man"? smh
Your toxic gender ideals and negativity is exactly why so many want to move out of the USA and countries that are similar. Please do better and if you can't please don't bring your toxicity to an unpolluted community or country.