Janet Blaser

Follow me on Instagram & Facebook: @TheJanetBlaser

Since moving to Mexico almost 20 years ago, my life has been full of joy. Some of that comes from my many interactions with readers and viewers who are curious about living in Mexico or who are on an expat journey themselves. At first, these were unexpected exchanges and relationships, but now they are an integral part of my everyday life and who I am. I feel privileged that so many people trust me, and I take the responsibility seriously. If I can help someone achieve their dream, or be a little happier, then I feel like I've done some good in the world.

Some of you may know "my Mexico story" from reading articles I've written or seeing videos about my life. But I'm no different than any of you. It was on a wing and a prayer that I followed a long-held dream of living in a more tropical climate after visiting Mazatlán on a random vacation. And when I got there, I stumbled through all the same issues as any "newbie"expat: not knowing the language or how things were done, missing my family, friends and community so deeply it hurt, doubting that this decision was the right one. Looking back now, I guess I just tried to take it one step at a time, trusting that tomorrow was another day and that eventually I would have a better handle on everything.

And that's what happened!

I made friends and found community. I learned more of the language, and I learned how to laugh at myself speaking like a toddler. "Poco a poco" things began to make sense. Not yet retired (I'd just turned 50), I drew on my journalistic skills and experience and started an English monthly magazine, to share information with the expat community about the wonderful, welcoming city of Mazatlán. It was beloved from the first issue and became a bridge between the local and foreign communities.

One of my goals and dreams in moving to Mazatlán was to start an actual farmers' market, and so, with the assistance of a board of growers, locals and interested expats, I founded the Mercado Organico de Mazatlán (MOM), a weekly open-air market where local farmers sell their organically grown produce and products. It celebrates its 12th anniversary this year.

Then, suddenly, the muse called and I found myself moving to Lo de Marcos, a tiny rural town on the jungle coast in Nayarit, about six hours south of Mazatlán. During an 18-month sabbatical, I found myself inspired by the beauty and tranquility to compile my first book, “Why We Left: An Anthology of American Women Expats.” After its publication I moved back to Mazatlán, where I focused on surfing, freelance writing and doing my best to practice the art of relaxation. (Much easier said than done!)

Ever since fourth grade, when I wrote my own versions of Aesop's fables, writing has been something that felt natural to me. It's who I am in the world, and the gift I have to give. As an adult, my career as a journalist allowed me to experience, write about and share great food, amazing places, fascinating people and unique events. It's an exchange that is deeply satisfying to me, and I hope, to you, too.

I've been a regular Contributor to CNBC's "Make It" since 2020, and you can find my newest articles and videos about living in Mexico there. My work has also appeared in numerous expat and travel publications, including International Living, Mexico News Daily, and Mexperience, as well as newspapers and magazines in Santa Cruz, California, where I worked as a journalist, writer and editor for 20+ years.

Stepping out from behind my desk, this year I began offering Expat Consultations, personalized video meetings to assist you in your expat journey. I've created a menu of options with different price points, tailored specifically to your needs and questions. If this is something that interests you, shoot me a message and I'll send you the details.

I'm really excited about my newest project, a series of books about expat living in several other countries: Italy, Costa Rica, Portugal, and of course, Mexico. The first one, "Going Expat...Mexico!" is set to be published November 1, 2024, and will be available here in paperback and ebook. Stay tuned!

Find me on Instagram & Facebook: @TheJanetBlaser