Two years ago today, Amanda made a life-changing decision that would shape her future: she booked a one-way ticket to Mexico. Like many an American living abroad, she had questions, fears, and a list of responsibilities she thought needed handling before making the leap. In today’s post, we’re sharing Amanda’s story of transformation, the lessons she learned, and how you too can embrace the life of an American living abroad.
Why One American Living Abroad Decided to Stay in Mexico
Amanda originally planned to stay in Mexico for just six weeks. But something shifted. During her travels through Jalisco and beyond, she fell in love with the lifestyle, the culture, and the possibilities. As an online entrepreneur, she quickly realized that all the “requirements” she believed she needed to meet before moving were mostly myths.
Like many Americans living abroad, Amanda assumed she needed to be debt-free, have a fully automated business, and tons of savings before relocating. But her experience in Mexico flipped those assumptions upside down. Not only did she find it easier to manage debt thanks to the lower cost of living, but she also discovered that her quality of life improved dramatically.
Financial Myths Busted by an American Living Abroad
One of the most common objections we hear from would-be expats is: “I need to pay off all my debt first.” Amanda had business debt when she moved, and while she didn’t ignore it, she realized she didn’t need to eliminate it all to start her new life. In fact, living abroad made it easier to pay it down.
- Former rent in Miami (Brickle): $3,000/month
- Current rent in Mexico (Lake Chapala area): $550/month
That’s an 85% savings in rent alone—and for a better quality of life. For Americans living abroad, this kind of financial breathing room is a game changer. It allows more money to go toward debt reduction, savings, and investments.
Culture Shocks & Comfort Zones for Americans Living Abroad
Amanda had long dreamed of exploring the international lifestyle. With her Cuban heritage and fluency in Spanish, the transition was smoother than most. But even if you don’t speak the language, there are many towns in Mexico where expats thrive.
While beach towns like Puerto Vallarta and Tulum were fun to visit, Amanda felt more at home in Guadalajara and, later, in the peaceful Lake Chapala region. She preferred experiencing the local culture, avoiding gringo-heavy zones, and connecting with the real Mexico.
The Mindset Shift Required to Become an American Living Abroad
Most Americans considering living abroad get stuck on what they think is “responsible”:
- Pay off all debt
- Have a six-figure emergency fund
- Automate your entire business
In reality, Amanda discovered that these conditions often delay progress. Moving abroad helped her reduce stress, lower her cost of living, and free up energy to make better financial decisions.
As Amanda says, being “reasonable” often holds people back. Once she let go of what others defined as responsible and looked at the numbers logically, it became clear that the most responsible decision was to go.
Quality of Life Perks for the American Living Abroad
Beyond the financial benefits, Amanda found her health, lifestyle, and overall wellbeing improved.
- Healthcare: High-quality care at a fraction of U.S. costs
- Food: Fresher produce, often sourced locally
- Community: Supportive expat and local networks
- Time Freedom: No longer chained to hustle culture
She also began exploring investments in Mexico, including high-interest CDs and savings accounts that outperform many U.S. options. These are all accessible to the average American living abroad with the right guidance.
Guadalajara: A Gateway for Americans Living Abroad
Guadalajara served as the perfect landing pad. It’s a large, international city with everything you could need—but without the chaos of Mexico City. Amanda wasn’t quite ready for a rural lifestyle right away, and Guadalajara offered a manageable transition.
For many Americans living abroad, starting in a city like Guadalajara can help ease the culture shock. From there, you can explore smaller towns and more rural life once you’re ready.
What’s Next for This American Living Abroad
Now living in the countryside near Lake Chapala, Amanda and her husband are planning their next international move. Whether it’s six months in Mexico and six months abroad or exploring investments in Europe, South America, or Asia, they’re creating a life of freedom, mobility, and global diversification.
Their journey is a testament to what’s possible for any American living abroad who dares to think differently.
Ready to Start Your Own Chapter as an American Living Abroad?
Download our Moving to Mexico Guide and book your consultation at entrepreneurexpat.com/consult. Whether you want to reduce stress, escape hustle culture, or expand your global footprint, we can help you build a personalized relocation plan.
If you’ve been watching our content and wondering when it’s your turn, this is your sign. Let’s build your dream life abroad—together.