Welcome to World Aware, your weekly roundup of global news and insights that actually matter if you travel internationally, live abroad, or you're thinking about it.
Did you catch this week's video about our Mexico residency dreams being dashed?
We sure got a lot of advice in the comments, contacts and emails about various options to consider. Everyone was super nice and caring. That means a lot to us!
We know it "might" work if we apply at the "right" consulate, but we don't want to waste a lot of time, energy and money chasing a second residency that we don't really need.
Sure, the application fee is small, but flying to a city in the U.S. with a consulate, renting a car, and paying for a hotel is NOT cheap.
Especially because we might have to fly from another country. We can't just drive there because we don't live in the U.S.
Plus, we need to limit our stay in the U.S. to less than 35 days per year so we continue to qualify for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion. If we spend several days going to a consulate, it reduces the time that my parents might need if something happens. Without that deduction, we could owe thousands of dollars in taxes.
After speaking to an immigration attorney in Mexico, we don't feel confident that our application would be approved at this time based on our current financial situation.
The special domestic regularization program (RNE) closed in 2025 so we can't go there, overstay a tourist visa, and then apply for residency.
The IRS Rule of 55 won't work for us because we don't have a 401(k) or 403(b). I've been self-employed for 24 of my 31 working years and the small company Amelia works for doesn't offer that benefit.
The IRS Rule 72(t) won't work, either, because we don't have enough in any one account to move the needle in the short-term and that program still triggers taxes we don't want to pay. Plus, the risk of penalties and interest if we don't follow the rules exactly for at least 5 years would be stressful, especially if we have to use multiple accounts to meet the residency requirements.
We're still saving for our retirement, which is why we still work. We just get to do things we enjoy while helping other people and exploring the world.
Amelia turns 59 1/2 in 18 months, and some consulates will accept retirement funds at that age (some require you to be 62).
So in 18 months, the outlook changes and Mexico residency becomes a much more realistic option.
I think Amelia is up for another 18 months of full-time travel, and we're going to check out some other countries in the meantime.
Who knows? Maybe Mexico gets bumped down the list by the time we qualify. Costa Rica is still territorial tax so that's very appealing 🤔
btw - Amelia's 58th birthday was on Monday. Can you believe she's 58? I sure can't! Signs of a life well-lived!
​Wish her a happy birthday here (so she'll see it) 🥳
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World Aware News
Here's what we learned about the world this week...
Expat News
Costa Rica Ranks Among Top Choices for Americans Moving Abroad
Costa Rica has been named one of the world’s 16 most sought-after destinations, reflecting growing interest from Americans seeking residency or citizenship outside the United States. If you’re considering a move, Costa Rica remains a popular option, but you’ll still need to meet the country’s visa, income, and healthcare enrollment requirements. [Source]
Costly First-Year Lessons from an Early Retirement Abroad
Retiring to a lower-cost country can save money, but the first year often brings expenses that are easy to underestimate. One American who retired to Mexico at 50 found that housing decisions, currency fluctuations, transportation, and unexpected trips back to the U.S. stretched her budget before she settled into a routine. If you're considering a move overseas, plan for a larger first-year cushion than your long-term retirement budget may suggest. [Source]
Retiring Abroad Can Bring Happiness, but Also Loneliness
Research suggests retirees who move overseas are often satisfied with their new lives but may also experience greater social loneliness than those who stay in their home country. Studies point to lower living costs, better weather, and a slower pace of life as benefits, while building deep local relationships and replacing long-standing support networks can take much longer. If you're planning to retire abroad, it's worth giving as much thought to your future social life as you do to finances, healthcare, and climate. [Source]
Expats Are Changing Mérida’s Evening Social Scene
A growing community of American and Canadian expats is influencing how evenings unfold in Mérida, Mexico with rooftop bars, cafés, and other businesses adapting to serve both newcomers and locals. If you're considering a move to Mérida, you'll find a mix of local traditions and familiar North American leisure options, along with neighborhoods where expat-focused businesses are more established. [Source]
Travel News
South Africa Now Requires Online Customs Declarations Before Arrival
South Africa has introduced a new requirement for nearly everyone entering or leaving the country to submit an online customs declaration within 24 hours before departure on the final leg of their journey. For now, travelers who don't complete it in advance won't be refused entry or exit, as customs officials can still assist at the border. If you're planning a trip to or from South Africa, completing the declaration before you travel can help avoid delays. [Source]
The Riskiest Destinations for Solo Travelers
A new global safety report ranked Venezuela as the highest-risk country for solo travelers after evaluating crime, healthcare access, infrastructure, personal safety, and other factors across 113 countries. Peru, Gabon, Colombia, and Bolivia rounded out the top five. The U.S. also continues to advise Americans to reconsider or avoid travel to parts of Venezuela because of security concerns and recent earthquake damage. If you're planning a solo international trip, it's worth checking current travel advisories, enrolling in the U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and factoring local healthcare and safety conditions into your destination choice. [Source]
Too Much Online Research Is Taking the Surprise Out of Travel
A new survey found many travelers arrive at destinations feeling like they've already been there after consuming extensive online content before their trip. While social media and digital planning make travel easier, they can also reduce the sense of discovery that comes from exploring a place for the first time. If you want more memorable experiences, consider leaving some room for serendipity instead of researching every detail in advance. [Source]
Travelers Are Prioritizing Confidence Over Convenience When Booking Trips Abroad
As geopolitical tensions, extreme weather, and other disruptions make international travel feel less predictable, many travelers are placing greater value on flexibility, financial protection, and expert support when planning trips. If you're booking an overseas vacation, flexible terms, travel protections, and reliable support may be just as important as finding the lowest price. [Source]
That's all for this week. Let me know if you have any questions.
Safe travels.
JP (Amelia Says Hola)​
​AmeliaAndJP.com | TurtleTravelClub.com​
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