What is it really like living in Mexico beyond the vacation experience? In this episode of Live by Design -  Mexico Edition, host Taniel Chemsian sits down with Alex Krotkov, a long-time expat in Puerto Escondido, Mexico, to share honest insights on adapting to a new culture and building a meaningful life abroad. Alex explains what surprises most foreigners when they move to Mexico - from adjusting to a slower pace and different infrastructure to understanding healthcare options and daily life realities. They discuss the importance of open-mindedness, flexibility, and choosing the right community when relocating, whether you’re considering a beach town like Puerto Escondido or a cultural hub like Oaxaca. If you’re planning on moving to Mexico, researching Mexico expat life, or wondering how to successfully adjust and thrive long term, this episode offers practical advice, real stories, and grounded expectations to help you design a fulfilling life under the Mexican sun. Key Moments:  05:31 Adjusting to a slower lifestyle 08:19 Adjusting to different environments 11:21 Choosing the right neighborhood 16:38 Exploring hobbies and big decisions 18:03 Embracing curiosity and life changes 20:44 Connecting with others and gratitude How to contact Alex Krotkov :    Website Alex Krotkov.com Email:  [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alex.krotkov.photographer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alex.krotkov/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krotkov.weddings/   Feeling overwhelmed about buying in Mexico? Chat TCP, our AI-powered assistant, guides you to stress-free homeownership. Click here to start using Chat TCP: https://tanielchemsian.com/chat-tcp/?utm_source=youtube_lbd_mex   Want to own a home in Mexico? Start your journey with confidence - download your FREE “Buyer’s Guide” now for expert tips and clear steps to make it happen! Click here - https://tanielchemsian.com/buyers-gui...   Discover why everyone is falling in love with Puerto Vallarta real estate: https://tanielchemsian.com/puerto-vallarta-real-estate/   Join the ‘Taniel Chemsian Properties’ YouTube channel to learn what you need to know about Puerto Vallarta real estate. https://www.youtube.com/@TanielChemsian   Join our ‘Live By Design: Mexico Edition’ podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0VfClD5... Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/032... YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livebydesignmexicoedition   Contact Information: Email: [email protected] Website: https://tanielchemsian.com/ Mex Office: +52.322.688.7435 USA/CAN Office: +1.323.798.8893