It sounds like you have a realistic view of the adventure, with only one glaring exception: You won't suddenly, or ever, blend in, be assimilated or even fully accepted; even if you were to become quite fluent. There are just too many cultural differences for that, but you will be welcomed, treated well and you'll find Mexicans very helpful. At a subsistence level, I would not plan on cutting your expenses in half, especially at first; maybe never. We are experiencing inflation and all the other ailments of the worldwide financial crisis. Mexico's economy is shrinking and there is a resulting increase in petty crime as many return from the USA and can't find work here. Once settled, you will be better able to adapt to your new surroundings and manage your expenses better. However, always keep your 'escape plan' in place and the funds ready in case you need to use it. There aren't the 'safety nets' here that you are accustomed to at home.

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Read "Streets of Glass" to discover the experience of a retired couple's permanent move to Lake Chapala, Jalisco, Mexico.
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