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Tag: Mexico City

  • Lawyer Relocates Business to Mexico City, Finds Success

    In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic brought many professional lives to a standstill. For Derrick Morgan Jr., a 34-year-old attorney, this slowdown sparked a significant pivot that led him to relocate his business and life to Mexico City. What began as a freelance gig has blossomed into a thriving remote trademark law practice, proving that international relocation can unlock new opportunities for entrepreneurs.

    From Law Firm to Global Entrepreneur

    Morgan was working at a law firm handling contingency cases when court activity dwindled during the pandemic. A request from a cousin to help with a trademark registration led him to Fiverr, where he began offering trademark services. The demand quickly surged, prompting him to leave his firm job by 2021. His company, Morgan Business Solutions, LLC, now provides trademark searches, filings, and brand protection services to clients worldwide.

    Since trademark law is federal, Morgan can operate from anywhere as long as he maintains his U.S. law license. He now splits his time between Dallas and Mexico City, where he spends the majority of his year. This international setup allows him to manage his business effectively while enjoying a different pace of life and lower cost of living.

    Embracing a New Environment

    Morgan’s decision to move to Mexico City was influenced by several factors. He first visited in January 2020 and was captivated by the city’s culture and energy. The political climate in the U.S. following the murder of George Floyd also played a role, as he sought a change of environment that felt “alive, creative, and culturally rich.” Mexico City provided this, along with proximity to his family in Dallas, with flights being only about 2.5 hours.

    The transition wasn’t without its challenges. Initially, Morgan struggled with finding community and adapting to life without fluency in Spanish. However, by intentionally learning the language through online courses and local university studies, he overcame these hurdles. He also found a growing community of African Americans living in Mexico City, a presence that was minimal when he first arrived.

    Investing and Expanding Horizons

    Morgan has found Mexico City’s lower cost of living allows for greater disposable income, enabling him to invest more heavily in real estate and entrepreneurial ventures. His projects include Casa Papalotl, a boutique hotel in Puerto Escondido, investments in the mezcal company Ofrenda Spirits, and the marketing platform Aver Network. He also co-owns Imbiss, a Mexico City restaurant he helped revitalize by focusing on events and operational improvements.

    Morgan dispels common misconceptions about moving abroad, emphasizing that one doesn’t need to be extremely wealthy. “You need a plan, just like you would with any major move,” he advises. He also notes that safety concerns can be relative, with some aspects of life being less worrisome abroad than in certain U.S. cities.

    What are your thoughts on Derrick Morgan Jr.’s journey? Would you consider relocating your business abroad? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!

  • Mexico City Club Charges Americans $300 Entry

    Imagine stepping out for a night on the town in Mexico City, only to find out your nationality comes with a hefty price tag. That’s exactly what’s happening at a popular nightclub called Japan, which has announced a staggering cover charge exclusively for American visitors, sparking a wave of debate about tourism, gentrification, and local resentment.

    The $300 Cover Charge: A Political Statement?

    The club’s new policy requires U.S. citizens to pay 5,000 pesos, approximately $300, for entry. This stands in stark contrast to the roughly $20 fee for visitors from other countries, and even steeper discounts for Mexican and Latin American patrons, as well as students and teachers. The club’s social media post detailing this policy quickly went viral.

    Club owner Federico Crespo explained to The Guardian that the move is both political and economic. It’s seen as a symbolic response to perceived insults from U.S. leaders towards Mexico, and a way to address the rising cost of living and displacement in popular neighborhoods like Roma Norte and Condesa, often attributed to an influx of foreign remote workers.

    Gentrification and Growing Tensions

    Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Mexico City has experienced a significant increase in American ‘digital nomads,’ drawn to its vibrant culture and affordable lifestyle. However, critics argue this influx has dramatically driven up housing costs, making it difficult for longtime residents to afford their own neighborhoods. This has led to growing frustration and a feeling of being economically and culturally marginalized.

    In an Instagram post, the club clarified its stance: ‘It’s not that ‘we charge gringos more,’ it’s that we offer discounts to people that need it. The cover charge is $5,000 [pesos]. Citizens of the USA don’t get a discount.’ Crespo also stated that the revenue generated from the higher cover charge would be used to support employees struggling with the city’s increasing cost of living.

    A Complex Issue with No Easy Answers

    This situation highlights the complex challenges faced by popular tourist destinations worldwide. While tourism can bring economic benefits, it can also lead to unintended consequences like gentrification and cultural shifts that impact local communities. The club’s controversial pricing strategy is a bold, albeit divisive, attempt to address these issues.

    What are your thoughts on this Mexico City nightclub’s pricing policy? Is it a justified response to gentrification, or an unfair practice? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Score Big Savings: September Travel Deals Under $700 Round-Trip

    Forget the summer rush! September, particularly after Labor Day, is the prime time to snag incredible travel deals. As the shoulder season begins, children are back in school, and the holiday travel rush is still a few months away, making it the perfect opportunity to explore those bucket-list destinations without breaking the bank. Flights and accommodations are generally cheaper during this period, offering a more affordable and less crowded travel experience.

    Mexico City, Mexico: Culture and History Under $300

    Known as “The City of Palaces,” Mexico City offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and culinary delights. Alexander von Humboldt’s 18th-century description highlights its impressive infrastructure. Visitors can immerse themselves in architecture tours, savor authentic cuisine, shop at the artisanal market La Ciudadela, and explore the iconic Chapultepec Park. According to Skyscanner, round-trip flights from numerous U.S. cities, including Miami, Oakland, Las Vegas, Sacramento, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Washington D.C., Atlanta, and New York City, can be found for under $300. Travelers departing from Houston have particularly affordable options, with deals around September 23-30 available for less than $300 round-trip on Google Flights.

    Rome, Italy: Timeless Beauty for Under $550

    Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Rome remains an endlessly captivating destination. September offers the advantage of fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate exploration of iconic sites like the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum, and the Spanish Steps. For a truly local experience, wander through neighborhoods like Trastevere, Monti, and San Lorenzo, known for their authentic shops, trattorias, and vibrant street life. Skyscanner reports round-trip flights from major U.S. cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Atlanta, Miami, Detroit, and Chicago are available for under $550. Boston offers the cheapest option, with round-trip tickets found for less than $480 on Google Flights for travel between September 16-23.

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Beaches and Wonders for Under $550

    Sometimes, travel deals seem too good to be true, but the opportunity to visit Rio de Janeiro this September for under $550 round-trip is the real deal. Rio attracts millions annually with its stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you seek history, relaxation, adventure, or partying, Rio offers something for everyone. Flights from Chicago, Orlando, Washington D.C., Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Boston, and Miami can be found for less than $550 on Skyscanner. Travelers from Tampa have the most economical option, with round-trip tickets for under $400 on Google Flights between September 15-22, including a long layover in Panama City, Panama – essentially offering two destinations for the price of one.

    Tokyo, Japan: Culture and Fall Foliage for Under $600

    As September arrives, Tokyo begins to showcase its iconic fall foliage, making it an ideal time to visit with fewer crowds. The city is celebrated for its blend of modernity, rich culture, and advanced technology. Beyond its natural beauty, Tokyo offers historic temples, culinary tours, and traditional tea houses. Round-trip flights to this culturally vibrant city are available for less than $600 from Pittsburgh, San Francisco, Cleveland, Las Vegas, and New York City, according to Skyscanner. Travelers from Los Angeles often find some of the cheapest options, with deals around September 16-23 available for under $515 on Google Flights.

    Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: An Affordable Escape for Under $700

    Vietnam, particularly Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), is celebrated for its beauty, from its people to its landscapes. As Vietnam’s largest city and its cultural and economic hub, it promises an unforgettable urban escape. Exploring the ubiquitous street markets, such as Ben Thanh Market and its food market, the Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, or Ba Chieu Market, is a must. Don’t miss out on a night food tour or a boat trip to nearby floating markets. Skyscanner reports round-trip flights from Dallas, Seattle, Las Vegas, Chicago, and New York City are available for under $700. Travelers from San Francisco can find even better deals, with round-trip tickets for less than $600 on Google Flights for travel between September 15-22.

    Which of these September travel deals are you most excited about? Have you visited any of these destinations during the fall shoulder season? Share your travel tips and experiences in the comments below!