How Moving to Mexico Changed My Life
I never imagined that a vacation could change the course of my life. Like many who visit Playa del Carmen, I initially came here just to escape the cold and bustle of Montreal, to recharge under the warm Mexican sun and return to my routine. But what I found in Playa was far more than just a temporary escape—it was a deep, unexpected sense of belonging that I hadn’t known was missing from my life.
Playa del Carmen: A Place That Adopted Me
There’s an expression here that says, “Playa either adopts you or aborts you.” From the moment I arrived, I knew this place had adopted me wholeheartedly.
The sensation I felt upon arriving in Playa was profound—an overwhelming feeling of being home, even though I was thousands of miles away from everything familiar. The warmth of the environment—the sun, the people, the culture, the smiles all around—completely embraced me, and I embraced back.
Leaving Montreal for a New Life in Mexico
For years, I had known deep down that Montreal wasn’t my forever place. Don’t get me wrong—it’s a wonderful city, vibrant and full of life. But something was always missing for me. I dreamed of living in a place where sunshine wasn’t just a fleeting season but a constant companion. I longed for a life close to nature, where the beach was more than just a vacation destination, but a daily retreat. And ever since I started learning Spanish in high school, I felt a connection to the language and culture of Mexico that I couldn’t quite explain. It felt like “el idioma de mi alma”—the language of my soul.
When I arrived in Playa, all those dreams that once seemed distant and unattainable suddenly became my reality. The life I had envisioned for myself—a life filled with sunshine, nature, and a deep sense of peace—was here, waiting for me. And as I spent more time in this beautiful place, I realized that this was more than just a vacation destination; it was my home.
Mexico: The Place Where I Was Meant to Be
In Mexico, there’s a saying that “el Mexicano nace donde quiere,” which means “A Mexican is born wherever they want.” I’ve come to embrace this saying because it perfectly captures how I feel. Although I wasn’t born here, Mexico feels like the place where I was always meant to be.
It’s where I’ve built a life that’s rich in experiences and connections, where I’ve found a community that feels like family, and where I’ve discovered a quality of life that I didn’t even know was possible.
Life in Playa del Carmen: Embracing the Slow Living Lifestyle
Life in Playa del Carmen is different from anything I’ve known before. It’s slower, more intentional, and deeply connected to the rhythms of nature. I wake up to the sound of the birds (and my neighbor’s roosters), take morning walks along the beach, and enjoy the simple pleasure of dipping my toes in the sand as the waves gently lap at the shore. After work, I might cool off in the rooftop pool or grab a quick bite at my favorite taco stand before heading out for an evening of salsa dancing with friends. It’s a life that’s centered around joy, connection, and the things that truly matter.
Here, I don’t feel the pressures of the hustle and grind that were so pervasive in my old life. Instead, I’ve embraced what many call “slow living.” It’s about savoring each moment, whether it’s a quiet sunrise on the beach, a spontaneous conversation with a neighbor, or a relaxed evening spent with friends. Life here isn’t about accumulating more stuff or constantly striving for the next big achievement. It’s about finding contentment in the present, about being connected to yourself, to others, and to the world around you.
Starting Paradise Listings: Sharing the Beauty of Mexico
Starting Paradise Listings with my boyfriend, Javier, was a natural extension of the life we’ve built here. Together, we wanted to share the beauty and magic of Playa del Carmen and Mexico with others who, like us, are searching for something more. Paradise Listings isn’t just about selling properties—it’s about helping people find their own piece of paradise in Mexico, a place where they can slow down, breathe deeply, and truly live.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my journey, it’s that life doesn’t have to be ordinary. We all have the power to create an extraordinary life, one that aligns with our deepest desires and dreams. For me, that life is in Mexico—a place that has given me so much more than I ever imagined.
Encouragement for Those Considering Moving to Mexico
If there’s one thing my journey has taught me, it’s that sometimes the life you’re meant to live is waiting just beyond your comfort zone. Moving to Mexico was a leap into the unknown, but it turned out to be the best decision I ever made. Here, I’ve found a life that’s rich in meaning, connection, and joy—a life that feels true to who I am at my core.
If you’ve ever felt that pull toward something different, something more, I encourage you to explore it. Whether it’s Mexico or another place that speaks to your soul, don’t be afraid to pursue the life that feels right for you. The extraordinary is within reach—sometimes, all it takes is the courage to follow your heart and see where it leads.
If you have questions about moving to Mexico or you’re looking for a place to call home here, let’s connect!
