Name: Sharita Jennings
Where you can find Sharita : Twitter & Instagram.
Nationality: American
Current Host Country: Mexico
Previous Locations: Colombia, Peru, Antigua, Guatemala, Portugal & Croatia
Years Abroad: 3
Length in Current Location: 10 Months
Occupation: Attorney
I moved to my current country because: …I moved to Mexico City the first time on a whim because I was visiting Playa del Carmen when friends advised that I check out Mexico City. I planned to stay for 2 weeks, and I left 6 months later. I enjoy this city in particular because it is low cost, in close proximity to other towns for easy road trips, and I enjoy Mexican culture food, and the language of course!
The three things you need to make it here is:
1. You need to be patient. I find that living anywhere outside of the United States, things move a bit more slowly. This means service at restaurants, government offices, and even malls can be bit slower and sometimes frustrating. On the other hand, this slower pace also means people are not as stressed and in a rush to do everything, creating a much more relaxed vibe overall.
2. A willingness to learn. I knew nothing about Mexico before living here, and I am constantly learning more about Mexican history, people’s belief system, learning that only parts of the country are “dangerous” and that this country is more vast and diverse in culture and landscapes than I could have ever known. It’s important to leave your preconceptions behind and just be open to Mexico blowing your mind.
3. A strong stomach! The food here is amazing, but it is widely known that more foreigners will likely get sick. I think it’s totally worth it, but come prepared with meds, probiotics, and consider taking an anti-parasite drug ever so often to protect yourself!
The Best thing about living in my host country has been:
finding everything you need in one place. If you want to be beach bum there are pristine beaches. If you want a huge city, Mexico City is one of the 10 largest in the world. If you want amazing food, look no further than the nearest street cart. If you want spiritual retreats, and to be in touch with nature, there are plenty of locations for that as well. And most importantly, I feel very accepted and welcomed here, which is why I continue to return and stay for long stretches.
My favorite experience living here has been… taking roadtrips with friends, both locals and fellow expats. I enjoy exploring this country with people who were raised here, while also creating new memories with my friends. Mexico is so geographically diverse and no one part is exactly like the other. I have seen a lot, but there is plenty left to see!
If you’re considering living here, you need to: Leave any ideas of Mexico and Mexicans behind. We have been taught to fear the unknown, when in fact my own country (United States) is far more dangerous than any place I’ve lived in Mexico. Come with a blank slate and enjoy!
The biggest lesson I learned as an expat is...
I've learned that people, no matter where they are from, all crave connection. For this reason, it has been easier than at home to make friends and find connections because we are all away from our homes and craving our own tribe. Everywhere I've lived, I've been fortunate to meet people to help me navigate a new city, provide companionship, and expand my knowledge of the world and the people in it.
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