Mexico and Canada

EXPAT TALES Andy Jacks gives his take on the two very different cities in which he has lived.

Mexico is such a vibrant, colourful country full of ancient culture and history. Most people choose the coastal regions of Mexico, famous for its sun, surf, great fishing and diving but the inner part is equally fascinating – ancient pyramids and beautiful cities. Mazatlan has a wonderful old quarter called Plaza Machado, which has some German influence. Quebec is different again and we are currently based at the top of the Saint Lawrence River. The scenery is different from Mexico, full of trees, churches and light houses.

How does the cost of living compare to New Zealand?

I don’t think anywhere can compare to the cheap cost of living in Mexico. While still having relative First World infrastructure, you can live like a king on $2000 a month. Restaurant dining and internal travel is very well priced. Canada is, on the whole, more expensive than New Zealand.

What do you do on weekends?

Whenever we have time off we like to travel and see what the areas have to offer. Guanajuato in Mexico is located in a narrow valley, with the streets narrow and winding and many of the roads partially or fully underground. The historic centre of the city has numerous small plazas and colonial-era mansions and churches built using pink or green sandstone. It’s also home to the Festival Internacional Cervantino, which has artists and performers from all over the world. In Canada we have visited many cities, such as Halifax, which has pretty little fishing villages – Lunenberg and Mahone Bay – just out of the main city. Quebec City and Montreal have great shopping and food.

What do you think of the food?

Quebec has a great French influence in its food. A favourite starter is the french onion soup. They are famous for their poutine – french fries covered in gravy and cheese curd. Mazatlan is the shrimping capital of Mexico so from September onwards fresh shrimp is done many ways. Our favourite is coconut shrimp. They also make great ceviche and salsa.

What’s the best way to get around?

Mazatlan is famous for its Pulmonias – small converted Volkswagens without the roof or sides. You simply step out on the road and wave them down. It’s a fun way to get around. The local bus and regional buses are very affordable and safe. Canada is vast so we drive, take the trains or fly. Flying can be pricey, especially in the remote region we live in. Rental cars are pricey as well.

What’s the shopping like?

In Mexico most of the American superstores are in the cities. The Plaza Machado has organic markets