I have spent a great deal of time in Mexico City and had a lovely apartment in a very safe street of the Roma Norte neighborhood. That being said, you didn’t have to walk far before safety quickly declined. On the other hand, I have walked at night through Bangkok, alleys, slightly tipsy, and never had a concern. It’s a shame too because Mexico is so close and I am fluent. But for the same reason as you, I would choose Thailand or perhaps Philippines.
Stay months in both countries, Pattaya, Bangkok, Cancun, Playa Del Carmen Pros for Mexico: 100% properties ownership ( land/ house/ Condo/ etc..), Mexico Temporary/ Permanent residency is a ONE time only procedure ( No annual renewal/reviews BS ), No 90 days reporting, could own or run a business in mexico, path to dual citizenship, could join the Mexican Public health system IMSS for cheap, couple hours flight to US Mainland ( or PR, USVI) for major illness. Cons for Mexico: Corruption, Bureaucratic, Scam, Safety ( in some area ), Cost of living is higher ( "a lot higher" compare to Thailand, IMHO ). Love Thailand, but annual renewal/reviews BS , 90 days reporting, unknown tax policy, constant changing immigration/ government policy, no path to permanent residency gave me second thought about retiring there.
This is spot on. I go to CDMX and BKK multiple times per year. Food is WAAAAAY more expensive in CDMX as is an apartment in a great area. I love both places, both completely different living styles. I would say rent in CDMX is even higher than listed here. Guadalajara (except Zapopan where I toured a $3k USD monthly studio) and other great cities it drops dramatically.
you should have included a bathroom/toilet comparison. Go to a train station toilet in Mexico. Literally shit everywhere and you have to pay to enter. Thailand's bathroom's are very clean.
Being a native Texan myself. I've spent a considerable amount of time in Mexico. I love Mexico. But, the safety factor is my biggest concern. Excellent content here. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Crime in Thailand is usually much less violent than in Mexico. In Thailand, it’s more about petty theft and tourist scams, while Mexico deals with serious issues like gang violence and drug cartels. In Thailand, most violent incidents involving foreigners tend to happen when they're drunk or high, getting into fights with locals or, in many cases, with other foreigners. For me, the biggest difference is the language, but it's not a dealbreaker. Spanish is relatively easy for English speakers to learn because the alphabet, structure, and logic are quite similar. On the other hand, Thai has its own complex writing system, along with a very different logic and sound system, which makes it harder for English speakers to master. However, more and more people in Thailand speak English, so this shouldn't be a problem.
As Thais, I made 3.5K$/month but spend 600$ for living in upper central BKK. To counter food price - Eat local food at price 50 THB For transportation - Motorcycle comes first. BTS or MRT for specific point. Walk to nearby park for chill and relax. Thaialnd is far from perfect in many aspects but we're trying to improve what we can especially during the terms of current BKK governor.
With that low fertility rate and aging population its just realistic that Philippines will overtake Thailand again. All Philippines has to do is allow 100 percent ownership to foreign investors and things will drastically change as it has in Thailand and Malaysia.
I’m planning a move from Canada. I’m looking at a small town in both countries. For me the deciding factor is cheap street food and great health care in Thailand versus 5-6 hour flight or the ability to drive to Mexico. Right now I’m leaning towards Thailand as I think there will be more growth in the Mexican economy making things more expensive over time.
I lived in Mexico 2006-2009. It was always my plan to retire there and I would go back once or twice a year. My last visit was about 3 years ago. I didn't feel safe. Too many people getting shot.
2 of my top cities so this was fun. CDMX is really almost perfect. But yeah, safety is huge. I think people in those countries don't even realize the amount of low grade stress they are carrying around until they get away from it for a while.
I spend 4 months in Thailand a year and 4 months in Mexico as well and if your a financial investor or looking for residency or citizenship through Investment Mexico has great value and great passport … I wouldn’t keep money in banks in Mexico but you can go almost anywhere with passport and no requirement to live in Mexico to maintain residency
Wow that is something I am hearing more about now. That the safety in Mexico and Columbia for that matter is an issue. I have never lived there. But that is one thing that is very important to me as well. I don't want to feel like I am walking around with a target on my back.
Yes Safety is a Big factor, cause nothing else matters when something hurts you ! Haven't really been to Mexico, but one reason it's considered is the cooler climate in some areas at higher elevation. And I would like to check out all the temples, pyramids etc, the old world. Mexico is on the move and the cost will follow quickly I believe. But what happens to the exchange in Thailand when the brics comes on line is of question.
Spanish is really easy. Many towns in central Mexico with temperate climate eg San Mig, Queretaro. You can own property. No time difference between North and South America. No 18 hour flight to get there..... Need more reasons??
...prices in Mexico have increased greatly since Covid...the economy is booming. Although crime has not impacted me (or any of my close friends) at all in my 7 yeas here (Lake Chapala area) it is a concern that is always in the background.
As always, very informative and helpful, Ramze! You and others may find this Dutch woman's story interesting YT channel "At Home in Turkey". She had to leave Turkey when the proof of income level requirement changed and she no longer qualified. My general takeaway..we can plan and analyze but must be ready to "let go" and be ready to make a change when the circumstances change.
Lol just go to Brazil or tourist areas of Colombia, and Colombia is heavily pushing it but Mexico is STRAIGHT UP CARTELS. Just not a place to mess with unless you are Mexican and know the land, laws, and street/cartel etiquette
Yeah, Numero has some anomalies in the inputs so I wouldn't get too attached to the numbers, good for a quick look but not much else IMO. Here's Pattaya vs Chiang Mai with Chiang Mai coming in more expensive, Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) 80.00 ฿ 80.00 ฿ 0.0 % Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) 131.44 ฿ 80.00 ฿ -39.1 %c 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, ...) 1,116.67 ฿ 660.00 ฿ -40.9 %
Chiang Mai has a quickly growing microbrew scene. Wonder if that has an effect? To be fair, I have noticed prices creeping up in Chiang Mai the last few years.
Mexico is very expensive, and unsafe,, the areas you want to be anyway. Thailand wins hands down, no comparison, food is way better in Thailand too, culture is more exotic in Thailand, close to many SE Asian countries, no brainer to move to Thailand
Idk about food bro. Chilis came from Mexico they got unlimited amounts of salsa. Nothing beats a plate of beans ,orange rice, and chille rellenos. Thai food is bomb like pad see ew,Khao pad goong,and ghai chiao, but Mexican food over all for me.
Difference in safety is a big factor for me.
I have spent a great deal of time in Mexico City and had a lovely apartment in a very safe street of the Roma Norte neighborhood. That being said, you didn’t have to walk far before safety quickly declined. On the other hand, I have walked at night through Bangkok, alleys, slightly tipsy, and never had a concern. It’s a shame too because Mexico is so close and I am fluent. But for the same reason as you, I would choose Thailand or perhaps Philippines.
Stay months in both countries, Pattaya, Bangkok, Cancun, Playa Del Carmen
Pros for Mexico: 100% properties ownership ( land/ house/ Condo/ etc..), Mexico Temporary/ Permanent residency is a ONE time only procedure ( No annual renewal/reviews BS ), No 90 days reporting, could own or run a business in mexico, path to dual citizenship, could join the Mexican Public health system IMSS for cheap, couple hours flight to US Mainland ( or PR, USVI) for major illness.
Cons for Mexico: Corruption, Bureaucratic, Scam, Safety ( in some area ), Cost of living is higher ( "a lot higher" compare to Thailand, IMHO ).
Love Thailand, but annual renewal/reviews BS , 90 days reporting, unknown tax policy, constant changing immigration/ government policy, no path to permanent residency gave me second thought about retiring there.
This is spot on. I go to CDMX and BKK multiple times per year. Food is WAAAAAY more expensive in CDMX as is an apartment in a great area. I love both places, both completely different living styles. I would say rent in CDMX is even higher than listed here. Guadalajara (except Zapopan where I toured a $3k USD monthly studio) and other great cities it drops dramatically.
you should have included a bathroom/toilet comparison. Go to a train station toilet in Mexico. Literally shit everywhere and you have to pay to enter. Thailand's bathroom's are very clean.
I was just telling a buddy how super clean Thai bathrooms generally are in public spaces!
Don't forget "the Land of Smiles" has a lot of value as well as how religious beliefs affect people's attitudes and doings !
Being a native Texan myself. I've spent a considerable amount of time in Mexico. I love Mexico. But, the safety factor is my biggest concern. Excellent content here. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I live in Houston - where the safety factor is my biggest concern!
Crime in Thailand is usually much less violent than in Mexico. In Thailand, it’s more about petty theft and tourist scams, while Mexico deals with serious issues like gang violence and drug cartels. In Thailand, most violent incidents involving foreigners tend to happen when they're drunk or high, getting into fights with locals or, in many cases, with other foreigners.
For me, the biggest difference is the language, but it's not a dealbreaker. Spanish is relatively easy for English speakers to learn because the alphabet, structure, and logic are quite similar. On the other hand, Thai has its own complex writing system, along with a very different logic and sound system, which makes it harder for English speakers to master. However, more and more people in Thailand speak English, so this shouldn't be a problem.
And now there are translator gadgets ! Even on your phone. 😊
As Thais, I made 3.5K$/month but spend 600$ for living in upper central BKK.
To counter food price - Eat local food at price 50 THB
For transportation - Motorcycle comes first. BTS or MRT for specific point.
Walk to nearby park for chill and relax. Thaialnd is far from perfect in many aspects but we're trying to improve what we can especially during the terms of current BKK governor.
With that low fertility rate and aging population its just realistic that Philippines will overtake Thailand again. All Philippines has to do is allow 100 percent ownership to foreign investors and things will drastically change as it has in Thailand and Malaysia.
I’m planning a move from Canada. I’m looking at a small town in both countries. For me the deciding factor is cheap street food and great health care in Thailand versus 5-6 hour flight or the ability to drive to Mexico.
Right now I’m leaning towards Thailand as I think there will be more growth in the Mexican economy making things more expensive over time.
Lived in Mexico, I loved it and the people. However, I have lived in Thailand for +19yrs. Like Ramze says can not compare in some areas. Enjoy!
I lived in Mexico 2006-2009. It was always my plan to retire there and I would go back once or twice a year. My last visit was about 3 years ago. I didn't feel safe. Too many people getting shot.
2 of my top cities so this was fun. CDMX is really almost perfect. But yeah, safety is huge. I think people in those countries don't even realize the amount of low grade stress they are carrying around until they get away from it for a while.
Yep, it's a source of stress definitely.
Thumbs up 👍 Ramze
I spend 4 months in Thailand a year and 4 months in Mexico as well and if your a financial investor or looking for residency or citizenship through Investment Mexico has great value and great passport … I wouldn’t keep money in banks in Mexico but you can go almost anywhere with passport and no requirement to live in Mexico to maintain residency
SE Asia all the way. I did my time in Colombia, however, some parts have rubbed me the wrong way. Great destinations either way.
Wow that is something I am hearing more about now. That the safety in Mexico and Columbia for that matter is an issue. I have never lived there. But that is one thing that is very important to me as well. I don't want to feel like I am walking around with a target on my back.
Yes Safety is a Big factor, cause nothing else matters when something hurts you !
Haven't really been to Mexico, but one reason it's considered is the cooler climate in some areas at higher elevation. And I would like to check out all the temples, pyramids etc, the old world. Mexico is on the move and the cost will follow quickly I believe. But what happens to the exchange in Thailand when the brics comes on line is of question.
Spanish is really easy. Many towns in central Mexico with temperate climate eg San Mig, Queretaro. You can own property. No time difference between North and South America. No 18 hour flight to get there..... Need more reasons??
Safety above all for me in a large city since I want options. I do get that some people prefer small towns.
I frequent Mexico often, not even close, Thailand much better in every way. I speak both languages, Thai waaaay safer food much better
...prices in Mexico have increased greatly since Covid...the economy is booming. Although crime has not impacted me (or any of my close friends) at all in my 7 yeas here (Lake Chapala area) it is a concern that is always in the background.
As always, very informative and helpful, Ramze!
You and others may find this Dutch woman's story interesting YT channel "At Home in Turkey". She had to leave Turkey when the proof of income level requirement changed and she no longer qualified. My general takeaway..we can plan and analyze but must be ready to "let go" and be ready to make a change when the circumstances change.
Thanks for that!
Lol just go to Brazil or tourist areas of Colombia, and Colombia is heavily pushing it but Mexico is STRAIGHT UP CARTELS.
Just not a place to mess with unless you are Mexican and know the land, laws, and street/cartel etiquette
Question... is the digital Thai Batt far away from being launched?
Thank in advance
Haven’t even heard of it.
What are you thoughts about Panama?
Not as cheap as it once was and I always found it to feel a bit sketchy. To be fair though, I’ve only been a handful of times.
I tried mexico. I was robbed twice in one month. Decided to just cut my losses and head back to SE Asia after that.
Yeah unfortunately, safety is just not there in most of Latin America. Glad you are ok.
El Salvador is actually THE safest country in the Western hemisphere, safer than the USA.
Yeah, Numero has some anomalies in the inputs so I wouldn't get too attached to the numbers, good for a quick look but not much else IMO. Here's Pattaya vs Chiang Mai with Chiang Mai coming in more expensive,
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) 80.00 ฿ 80.00 ฿ 0.0 %
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) 131.44 ฿ 80.00 ฿ -39.1 %c
1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, ...) 1,116.67 ฿ 660.00 ฿ -40.9 %
Chiang Mai has a quickly growing microbrew scene. Wonder if that has an effect? To be fair, I have noticed prices creeping up in Chiang Mai the last few years.
@@RamzeTravels Yeah, just some of the inputs are wack. I don't think a brand new Toyota is 7% more in Pattaya or a VW is 17% more.
Mexico is very expensive, and unsafe,, the areas you want to be anyway. Thailand wins hands down, no comparison, food is way better in Thailand too, culture is more exotic in Thailand, close to many SE Asian countries, no brainer to move to Thailand
Idk about food bro. Chilis came from Mexico they got unlimited amounts of salsa. Nothing beats a plate of beans ,orange rice, and chille rellenos. Thai food is bomb like pad see ew,Khao pad goong,and ghai chiao, but Mexican food over all for me.
Too bad you can’t drive to Thailand.
Unless you start in Cambodia 😁 I kid I kid ✌️
I heard Panama is a great option low crime and affordable
NO THX> THAILAND A HELL OF ALOT SAFER THAN MEXICO.
Thailand is cheaper and safer