Posted: 10/19/2020 | October 19th, 2020
When you look back at 2020, what do you think you’ll remember most about it?
For me, it will be the lost momentum.
When the year began, it looked like it would be the Year of Matt (take that, “Summer of George”!). TravelCon was gaining a reputation as a “must attend” event in the industry, this website was on track to have its best year yet, and I was finally going to build a life for myself in Austin: I joined social clubs, took cooking classes (and even one on gardening), and signed up for volunteering. I planned to date and was even thinking about buying a house later in the year.
Life was falling into place.
Then, COVID swept through the world and wrecked everything in its path.
Now, as 2020 takes its final lap, I’ve resigned myself to the fact that those plans from the start of the year won’t be realized. The pandemic still rages in America. Many businesses remain shuttered. Companies — especially in the travel space — are closing for good. There’s massive unemployment. Most of the world’s borders are sealed (especially to Americans). Plus, you also have wildfires, racial inequality, a looming Supreme Court battle, and an upcoming election. It’s a mess! This year’s been a shit show.
Unlike other countries that had full lockdowns and strong institutions to control their outbreaks, we had mixed messages from the start (we got 50 states and 50 diffierent policies.) and couldn’t even stay inside long enough to flatten the curve. Masks have become a political lightning rod that people are fighting and killing over (And example 3 and 4 of many).
And I heard “COVID is a hoax” enough on my road trip to make me realize too many this problem is here to stay. (And that was all before Trump got COVID!)
I don’t believe the United States is going to get COVID under control anytime soon. Like a fever that has to burn itself out, there’s nothing that can stop it at this point. It will just be wave after wave until it’s over.
Last month on my drive back to Austin, I began to ponder the remaining months of the year. What would I do with them? Could I salvage any of 2020?
Everything I want to do here in Austin is still closed (as it should be given the virus).
I fault no one for wanting to lock themselves inside until there is a vaccine.
And, when you have a family or are married or retired, it might be easier to stay home. You have others to lean on. Or maybe you have a house and space to spread out. You might even have a backyard!
But what if you live alone? Single? What if you were hoping this was the year you found love? What if you live in an apartment with no outdoor access? What happens when the loneliness becomes too much?
“COVID fatigue” is bound to set in.
And I am fatigued.
I know I have it much better than others. Millions are suffering much worse. I recognize how lucky I am to even have savings to draw upon to continue to support my business and keep my staff employed. I know I’m lucky to even have a job. I don’t have a brick-and-mortar business that requires rent. I was able to get a couple of loans to keep things going, I can still afford my apartment, and I don’t worry about my next meal.
But that doesn’t make my own struggles any less important to me. They don’t cause me less anxiety when I see my savings depleted, business not improving, and my social and dating life ground to a halt.
I mean what happens when the money is gone? What happens if TravelCon can’t take place in April?
The anxiety keeps me up at night.
When so many others refuse to do the right thing, it all seems so futile. Society only works when we work together. And it just feels like this country is coming apart and that all the sacrifices we made were for naught.
Everything feels hopeless right now. I’m just so mentally exhausted.
So, I’ve decided to take action.
Next month, I’m moving to Mexico for the winter. A few of my friends have moved there and I’ve decided to join them after the election.
I know it’s weird to want to move during a pandemic – and Mexico has its own problems – but, in many ways, it’s better than Texas.1 According to my friends, people wear masks more and the virus is taken more seriously.
And, while I still don’t plan to frequent massive gatherings or anything, if I’m going to be confined somewhere, I’d rather be confined in a more tropical setting, closer to the beach and the water.
As I said, I know others have it much worse than me. I count my blessings, but as I watch so much of what I built — professionally and personally — crumble (and as someone already prone to anxiety that once caused panic attacks), I need a mental break.
I don’t know how long I’ll stay there. Heck, by the time I plan to go, the world may have changed again. If 2020 has reinforced anything, it’s that a lot can happen in a day.
But I have a chance to end the year on a high note.
And I’m going to take it.
1 – I’ll get a COVID test before I go and then another after I arrive. I will wear a mask, avoid crowds, wash my hands all the time, and social-distance while there. A number of travel insurance companies now offer medical coverage related to COVID so I’ll be getting a policy that covers that too.
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Josh Smith
All the best Matt. I think that is great idea and will hopefully bring you some calm. It’s important to switch off from the noise sometimes too and not let the worries of the world take over. Your content is great and I always look forward to reading it. If there is any help you need with keeping the business thriving the please let me know, I would love to help out as your content has helped me a lot during my travels too. ? Stay postive Matt you got this. ?
Anastasiya
Agree with you, all this closed borders, second waves, masks are already pain in low back)))
I don’t know what to do and this situation in economy I think will be worse and worse.
Any ideas?
Alison
Good for you Matt! Mexico is fabulous, as no doubt you already know. Enjoy the warmth, the beach, and you’re friends. Taking care of yourself at this point is probably the best thing you can do. And then you’ll see what life has to offer next.
Caroline
Another brilliant post Matt. You were my trusted read leading up to my son’s first travel experience. Sam set off last March, he lasted four weeks and two of those were under quarunteen in Vietnam. Back home now and much like yourself, very deflated. Please keep posting, best of luck in Mexico. We’re all in this together, so many disappointments all over the world. Best of luck and thank you for sharing your feelings.
Rachel
Yes, Matt, like Caroline, I would also like to read your posts from Mexico.
I also want to say that you need not apologize for saying things aren’t easy even though you realize in some ways you are lucky. There’s always someone worse off than we are! But we also need to acknowledge the things we’ve lost at this time, even if we’ve been fortunate enough not to know someone who died, or to have become ill ourselves. It’s important to grieve, in some small manner, the life that we don’t have right now, because that’s how we start to deal with it. You are finding a way in your trip to Mexico. As a senior traveler, I long to be out in the world again, but in the meantime, I just have to make the most of my life at home. I’m grateful for that, even as I look longingly at photos of my past travel adventures. But one day we will all be able to travel freely again. In the meantime, be as safe as you can be.
Matthew Karsten
We’ll see you there!
fran
The best thing I chose to do this summer was to visit croatia (with my mum, and then solo – I’m from the UK). To be honest, if I hadn’t gone away for those 3 weeks, I think I would’ve gone crazy. I had a beautiful time, met some incredibly interesting people, even spent the week in love with an incredible guy…and somehow, these beautiful events all miraculously happened in the midst of this crazily ridiculous situation…The world has a way of showing you light even in the worst of times – I wish you a wonderful trip to Mexico!
Melinda Wright
Love your post and wish you the best.youve helped me so much with travel. Get the book”miracle power for infinite riches” by Joseph Murphy. It’s old timey,easy read.it will keep your head in a positive place.
Tiffany Pence
I totally agree with you on everything you said. The USA is a mess. My husband and I moved to Mexico almost 3 years ago, and are happy that we are here. We live in the mountains (far from the beach), but a change of scenery and nature is good for the soul. If you have any questions on your move, I’d be happy to help.
Kris
All the best! Self care is so important in these uncertain times. Take some time to realize the beauty of travel again. Meeting like minded people. The USA will be here when you come back and we will bounce back from these dark times!
Lifejourney4two
It must be so frustrating and crushing watching your life’s passion, your business, dwindle right now, but it will eventually pick up when these crazy times are over.
Hang in there Matt and self care and being with friends is the perfect opportunity to take time for you and help you through xxx
Our travel blog hasn’t started making money yet so luckily we’re not missing anything – except the growth in readers which had just started booming. But I’m going through your superstar blogger course and travel writing course again …. honing skills and writing regardless … we’ll be ready and waiting for the world to return to ‘normal’ ??
Allison
This is awesome, I love Mexico and am glad you’re doing what you can to make this year meaningful. I would love to hear about the more practical aspects of your move. How did you find a place to stay? How will you beoving your stuff? Thanks!
Chuck Smith
Hi Matt! I’ll be very interested to hear about your sojourn in Mexico! I’ve been thinking about doing something similar but have been hesitant to be alone in a foreign country and maybe catch covid (and potentially have to deal with major medical issues where I don’t speak the language). But as time goes by it seems like we’re learning more about how to manage living with it, so maybe when my current lease is up next year I’ll be ready to head to Mexico (my #1 choice) as well. Do you plan to mostly stay in one spot or wander?
Sarah
Great post, Like the sea’s photo.
Pauline
Really great read. I’m a Canadian that lives near the border so I follow the news closely. I also like to spend some of the winter in Mexico. Alas, being Canadian, I am meek and we will listen to the higher powers and stay home. (insert sad face here). But! I sure hope you write about the whole experience. I’d love to read a trusting view of what’s happening, how you’re getting around etc. And I don’t blame you for going to the sun and the beach. It’s good for the soul. Maybe some small miracle will happen and we’ll see you there! Have fun!
Iris
Wishing you all the best, Matt. I am in Mexico now – I think it’s a good choice!
Joseph
Hubby and I were on course to escape to Europe this past spring. That did nto work. BUT we escaped July 1 to Lake Chapala area in Jalisco, Mexico and have no regrets. We feel so much safer–physically, mentally, health-wise. Hope you find the same and have a good stay, however many months that may be.
Stephanie Jutt
Matt, you don’t know it, but you have been my constant companion for YEARS. You personally have helped me so much, in travels to Cuba, South America, and Europe. Although I am not a “Patreon” member, I know I owe you so much. I think that Mexico is a GREAT idea. If you have a friend or two there, and the ocean, you’ll be fine. And remember how lucky you are to be ABLE to make this move. I’m retired and would go in a heartbeat, but my daughter is just about to have her second baby and I’m “stuck” in New York City. I know I’m lucky – none of my family has been sick, but the virus is everywhere and we’re super diligent. Best of luck on your travels, life, love, and happiness – it will come again. Hang on and remember that your listeners are out here listening! You are a treasure.
Andrea Reed
A very thoughtful post. I feel the same. I am in healthcare and am grateful to be working, but also feel like I am held to a higher standard and must live a cautious example. I rest in the faith that this too shall pass. The world is crazy right now and watching the news makes me feel like I am living in some far away undeveloped nation full of unrest. Sadly it is all out our own back door… Stay safe and sane!
Patricia McDougall
Matt, that is a good decision considering your mindset here, and the accuracy of your take that we aren’t getting past this virus any time soon. Mexico is a wonderful place, and not unsafe with the necessary precautions. I’m a single woman and for my last trip down there I decided I wanted my car. Drove to Lake Chapala, then Puerto Vallarta, stuck to toll roads, and stayed for 6 months. Do consult the State Dept. website, and register with the STEP program so they know where you are. I know you are going to get a new lease on life, and you have friends already there. Wishing you a great escape.
Donna K
GodSpeed, stay safe & healthy!
Melody L Stierheim
Good post – it resonates with many. For us, we have large canvas photos of our travels lining the hallway in our home – it provides an opportunity to “get away” at least momentarily. Passport was up for renewal, done in anticipation of a better world in 1-2 years.
Instead focus has been family and personal growth this year – including a journal of Plague Logs and expanded writing and crafting, so not feeling so much like a lost year as one taking “the road less traveled”. Wishing you a warm winter in Mexico!
Ali
Great call! I did that about two months ago and moved to Playa del Carmen. Would love to hear your feedback on what travel / medical insurance you recommend for an American away from home.
Regards from a longtime fan (actually randomly ran into you in Luang Prabang many years ago)
Randy Eckardt
I knew when I started reading your blog that you were moving to Mexico. I moved here a month and a half ago because I knew I wouldn’t be able to survive the hideousness of the election, a possible Trump victory and all of the other absurdity of Estados Unidos. I did vote rom abroad while here! and that vote of course was not for the Orange Criminal. I’ve lived in Mexico many times so it was as easy as walking across the street, and youj’ll know from airbnb searches among others (Craigslist sometimes,) etc. that decent places are very affordable. Beach/resort areas are of course different than the interior. I prefer the interior. 🙂 I’m in Ajijic, Lake Chapala area and it’s a small town, few people, lots of mask wearing and awareness. A bit expensive though for Mexico…especially rents! My guess is that you’ll head to Puerto Vallarta. You can find affordable rents there, but it will be busier than interior regions I’m thinking? Enjoy your Mexican adventure/somewhat isolation. 🙂 As you know, you’ll have to be prepared for noise! Something we can easily forget about Mexico. Is what it is; roosters, barking dogs, alarms, rockets…order of the dia ~
Dave
I am 80 and retired.Travelled in my seventies but arthritic knees and COVID-19 have stopped me. Always enjoyed your posts. Hope to travel again doing the old man shuffle. Will continue to look for your posts.
Patty Dwyer
Not great that people with the virus have been struggling, and businesses staggering. Meanwhile, I’ve been trying to finish writing my book, script(s), articles, and songs. I just got my pictures and albums organized- took about 2 weeks. I haven’t started making homemade stuff like laundry detergents, facial creme, etc. yet. I’m still trying to catch up with tons of stuff to do- drumming (taiko), walking-running for up to 40 minutes/day, baking, etc. I plan on being in Austin. (I hope to be at your hostel). I still have business plans to do and political participation. I have 8 books from nearby library to read. I have to do research on going to Argentina. So, other than jotting notes from your websites all along, I’m learning a little bit of how to do tracking, slowly though. Anyway, enough of my ramble, maybe you can go in housing exchange- that you have your place for someone to stay while you use that person’s home for a time being too.
Pat
Looking forward to hearing a blow by blow account!
Dave Thacker
Matt,
I can relate to your situation, but I am comfortably retired and widowed. The “shit show” continues on-and-on, at least one thing could get better if we make the right decision on November 3 (we need!!!!! a change badly). Like you I need to get away, so now (after absentee voting) I am in Ireland on a 14 day quarantine, hoping to get to Italy where I will live for 3 months.
Back in February when Covid was getting serious in Italy I was living in Orvieto reading your book, which by-the-way was excellent.
Good luck and enjoy Mexico, hopefully things will be better in the U.S. when we get back.
Ciao.
Dave
Sheri Mazariegos
Matt – always love your posts and travel advice. We had an amazing 3 week trip to Switzerland and used so much of what I learned from reading your advice. Looking forward to when we get to travel again and knowing we will be looking to you for inspiration. So glad to hear that you will be taking care of yourself and aware of what you need for self care. Mexico is beautiful! Thank you for all you’ve given to this travel community and wishing you many beautiful sunsets near a beach
GASTAN
MX is good idea. We’ve been waiting it out here since March. We had 4 flights booked all the way to Vienna (With stopovers in Miami Beach and Paris), but panic in Florida made us rethink the plan and we just returned back to small beach village on the coast of Oaxaca.
There are roosters and dogs here as well, but luckily we found a place on the hill, so it’s not so loud…
Jody v.
Wow Matt! Look how many people have been touched by your blog. Your time in Mexico is going to help you heal! We’re all here (grounded…..) and hoping the best for you!!
David Shearer
Nice Matt, I have traveled extensively in Mexico over the years. I am sure you will enjoy it. Are you planning on the Caribbean or Pacific coasts?
Steven Shultz
Hi Matt. I guess great (and nomadic) minds think alike. Needing a change myself, I moved to Mexico last month with uncertain plans on how long to stay. Playa del Carmen is my base currently, and it actually does feel safer and saner here than many places I’ve been to in the USA during this crazy year. Buen viaje y hasta luego!
Malia True
I live in Hawaii on the Big Island and I really support your choice. There is no depression that a little blue water, sunshine and fresh fruit can’t help. I count my blessings daily. If I can never leave this island again, I’m good with that. Happy trails! Aloha!
Ley
A very thought-provoking piece. Thank you for sharing, and all the best as you spend time in a new environment.
Cynthia L
Hola Matt!
I feel your pain, especially as a fellow single person! I am a US citizen who moved to the beach in Spain 2 years ago, great timing! I do feel safer here, people are taking precautions and respecting each other. Enjoy la playa, I miss Mexican food!
When I do need to travel back to the US, which travel insurance covers health issues from Covid-19?
Hasta luego-?????
Nick
Hi Matt,
Best of luck and enjoy Mexico and its wonderful people. We spent last week in Puerto Vallarta – recognizing that this might be our only chance to travel this year after trips to Italy (March), the Pacific Northwest and the Cook Islands (now) were cancelled.
Most people wore masks even on the streets and sidewalks. Stores took mask wearing very seriously. Our only concerns were the airports – where some Americans didn’t wear masks in the boarding areas and dropped them during the flights – and on boats that were a bit too crowded for us and guides and guests didn’t wear masks. Live and learn.
I wore your ‘Keep Calm and Travel On’ t-shirt a couple of the days there and received a few positive comments and thumbs up.
Looking forward to blog updates of your winter.
Veronika Primm
Oh my, there will be so many of you! Are you going to Tulum or elsewhere? I can totally understand why you’d want to leave the US. Here in the Czech Republic it’s becoming pretty crazy too and the winter is creeping up on us, so let’s see what unfolds.. I wouldn’t mind a prolonged tropical escape either!
Stay safe and hope the plan to go down to Mexico works out!
Barbara J
Hi Matt! I live in Mexico and feel this is a great decision for you. The cost of living is significantly less. In general, the Mexican people are warm and friendly. The speed of the internet can be a challenge with school students and many more people online than a year ago. //I hear the police in Puerto Escondido area have been hostile, arresting and jailing people (including women and children) who are not wearing masks out of doors. And they are not being professional, but roughing people up and even being brutal. I hope you are not going to the Oaxacan beaches. //Wishing you all the best. I have been in Mexico 7 years and am not interested in living in the US anymore. //I tried living in Merida a year and didn’t like the beaches nor the extreme weather. I moved from Florida and am now a bit of a beach snob after having been spoiled. Best regards, Barbara
Eric
All the best Matt, you are a real trooper ! I wish you great time in Mexico where I left my heart recently ! I just love that country !
If you are going to Oaxaca and need some contact reach out to me on Fb : Eric Benton actor .
I strongly suggest you to spend some quiet time with God, praying as well . And obviously always staying in that gratitude mood !
I love your blog, site & advices ! YOU ROCK BRO !
God bless you
All the best 🙂
Eric
Lyssa
I feel for you, Matt, and am sending an electronic hug along with best wishes. I’ve spent my lockdown alone in a city where I’m unhappy and disconnected because I have a condo here and it seemed prudent. That’s after 1.5 years as a nomad and plans to move to Portugal. In my traveling, I’d had the realization that all that mattered to me was finding a new home where I can build a community. I’ve given up on getting my wish in 2020, and on getting back to Europe. I, too, am heading to Mexico in a couple of weeks. No friends there, but there’s sun and sea, so things have to look up.
Don c
Best of Luck in Mexico, If I didnt have a 9-5 ( so to speak) I would do someting like that as well. I am actually considering going to Turkey in November. They dont require quarantine and I would practice the same “practices” I do here. Mask, distancing when can, sanitize but why to see some amazing sites along the way. Not sure what will be in 30 days so haven’t booked ( powder keg world I suppose) but part of me wants to just say , do it and if it gets canceled so be it and if it gets cut short so be and go home. Not sure but need some type of light to look forward too. Thanks again for keeping us up to date.
Jim
You are wise to move temporarily to some place safer than your present location. Some place with a large ex-pat community will provide opportunities for forming new friendships in a socially conscious way. My choice would be to head to Vermont, but I’m a cold-weather person–might not be a good choice for a sun lover in the winter. I was thinking about all the people who live alone, especially elderly people who must depend on visiting care-givers and how difficult this has been for them. I worry, too, about those care-givers who work for low wages and put their lives at risk to see that those for whom they care are safe. This has been a frustrating time for all of us who love to travel, and we have to keep reminding ourselves that this is not a permanent way of life. We have to power through it somehow. Best wishes for your new life in Mexico. Look forward to lots of wonderful pictures and your always-excellent commentary.
Wanson Hemphill
Enjoy your travel tips.
Luck in Mexico. I seen some locations mentioned with a beach and smaller safe communities.
Please offer suggestions on the best locations.
How could you get there this year?
Thanks
Lindsay
You’re not alone in your feelings Matt. LOVE reading what you write so please keep writing!! All the best on your next adventure 🙂
Carol Esfahanian
Matt,
Best wishes to you, enjoy your time!
I enjoy reading your Tuesday newsletter & will look forward to hearing about your life in Mexico.
Send pictures of the beach!
Love,
A want to be gypsy!
Brittany DeSalvo
Congrats on the Mexico move! My fiance was furloughed at the beginning of the pandemic and was able to find his silver lining by spending a month in Akumal this August to do cave diving training. They’re taking the virus seriously, even in the Riviera, despite it being a mainly tourism-driven economy. We’re seriously considering a move to Mexico in a couple years, simply because the diving there is unparalleled in terms of cenotes. There, or Malta. The results of the election may speed up our timeline, depending on COVID, of course. I don’t think we can handle much more of Trump’s America.
Ketti Wilhelm
I lived abroad for 5 years until 2019, and the recurring thought in my head in 2020 has been, “What am I actually doing back here?”
So yeah, I feel you on all parts of this.
Best of luck in Mexico! It sounds like a much-needed adventure.
Beth S.
Sending lots of good wishes your way, Matt. I really appreciate that you’ve tempered your passion for travel with the reality we’re facing right now. I feel the boredom & fatigue and only travel a couple of times/year so I can only imagine your cabin fever. What part of Mexico are you looking at?
debbie ann
Great decision, looking forward to hearing more about where in mexico, and which travel insurance. I escaped to australia since I have an australian passport, but mexico wouldve been high on my list
John Bridges
Good luck Matt. Hope your Mexican bubble turns out to be just the ticket to feeling more hopeful. It may seem like everything you’ve built is “crumbling down,” but remember, the person who built all that is still alive and well. If you can do it once, you can do it again! Bon voyage, amigo! John
Stephen Fischer
I’ve been thinking the same thing for a while now, and I might be making the same move come the New Year. Glad you’re figuring out what’s best for you right now Matt. Best of luck with the move, and stay safe!
Jordana
I have been in Mexico for about 9 years. The rules are different depending on where you are! But yes, being by the beach and outdoors a lot seems like a good thing now! I usually travel in the summers but sadly not this year!
Hope you find a place you like.
Trang
Greattttt choice in going to mexico! You’re gonna LOVE IT and somehow, some of the worries lessen for some reason when you are OUTSIDE of the states looking IN
Linda Marie Wessels
The sacrifices we made were not for naught–things would have been much worse without them, just as things would have been much better if they had been universally undertaken. You did your part, and it made a difference, even if invisible to you.
Godspeed.
Greg
Where in Mexico and why did you choose that location?
Alda Lima
Hey Matt,
As a Brazilian facing many of the same issues you are facing (both personal and societal such as masks becoming a political debate, insane politicians, people that refused to stay home for a single day, elections coming up next month, covid hoax stories…), I can totally relate and wish you good luck in Mexico – it will be nice for you to change the scene.
I’ve been researching where I can go for a while (but just like Americans, not many options for me to choose from) because I have the exact same feeling of fatigue. I held on pretty nicely until about a month ago but have recently started to crack.
Sending you a hug and hoping we will all be crossing the skies and roads with no restrictions again soon!
Always thankful for your contribution to our lives with this community 🙂
NomadicMatt
Thanks everyone for the lovely comments and well-wishes! In regards to insurance, we’re updating the post next week with which companies now offer COVID coverage. Stay tuned! 🙂
Charlie
To: Matt and all the people who have posted:
Regards to everyone. I’m so surprised at how many people are just sick about the current situation in the US, and the expressions of finding a better or happier life elsewhere; and pleased that so many of you have found a safe, pleasant refuge in Mexico. May people have been fortunate and blessed not to have suffered tragic loss, but what we have experienced or lost should be acknowledged, and even mourned or grieved. Matt, I think you know how much your writing has impacted people in a positive way. I hope this brings you a measure of fulfillment and joy; even in the midst of these truly difficult times. Let us focus, friends, on being as positive as we can possibly be, focused on self-care, our loved ones and the (often hard, overwhelming) actions we must take to keep ourselves healthy and strong. Let us have faith in the Almighty that this, too, shall pass. Stay safe. May Love, Peace, Strength, Health, and Calm surround you all.
Jacqueline Le
Oh man.. I was stuck in Africa during the beginning of lockdown and wanted nothing but to just go home. But the second I landed back in the States, I realized exactly what you just wrote. The country had become a politicized warzone. I couldn’t believe just wearing a mask was considered a political statement. It was completely mental, so I don’t blame you for wanting to leave. I left after one month, and don’t regret it. Hope you do make it to Mexico and have a good time. I’m very curious as to what it’s like traveling there during the pandemic.
Emily L
Wow. This hit me on so many levels. I’m the same age, same love of travel, single, living alone, working from home, have the same anxiety & sadness about all those canceled trips/plans. but I also recognize that I have been very fortunate. You feel guilty for feeling sad, lonely or hopeless because you are one of the “lucky ones” like you have no right to have those feelings- thank you for validating not only your own feelings but mine as well. All the best to you. I adore Mexico (it is the country that started my love of travel). Also hoping to make it there in December for a week just to break this endless cycle of despair. xx
Dave
Great choice, getting up and traveling again … I’ve just come back from James Bond Island … and who’d have thought that was possible … but it is and so is Mexico … enjoy the break!
Zoe
All the very best, Matt. Mexico is wonderful. I look forward to your posts from there. Take care and stay safe.
Cisley
Hey, Matt, I always love how honest you are in your posts. Indeed, I think that even the ‘lucky’ ones and people with resilient minds are starting to struggle right now. I always try to look at the bright side of things and, just as you, I’m also blessed. My family is okay, I don’t have economic struggles, etcaetera, etcaetera. But who would have guessed this would be so bad and would last for so long? Just today I was thinking about how in March we were all making these silly predictions: Yeah, this will be over in a couple of months, for sure.
Or by September I’m sure it will all be back to normal!
We can but laugh at our naivety.
Anyway, I admire your bravery. You are taking action to fix the way you’re feeling and that’s really wonderful. It’s also great that you have the option to come to Mexico, and although I love cold winters I do believe that eternal sunshine can be good for the soul.
I live in the southeast of Mexico. I’d say that the way the virus is seen and handled over here depends on the state you’re in. There are states (like Campeche) that took strict measures from the start, people followed them, and now they’re faring pretty good. Then there are others that did what they wanted (like Tabasco) and now things are rough over there. I live in Merida (Yucatan, 4 hours away from Cancun). Our state took heavy measures even before things became too bad and we managed to flatten the curve. Now we’re opening up again little by little, but still following social-distancing and other prevention rules. Masks are mandatory in any public spaces (you will be forbidden to come in if you’re not wearing one) and you see pretty much everyone wearing them. It’s actually frowned upon if you don’t by now. Despite all this, I believe that a new wave will come sooner or later. It’s just as you say, it will be wave after wave until it gets under control. In the meantime, you can at least go grab an afternoon beer (because everything closes early).
I really hope your stay in Mexico helps you in all possible ways, Matt. I will be looking forward to reading what you’re up to while you’re here.
Stay safe!
Will Macfleet
I respect your travel advice but as I read this and one thing sticks out – you are spoiled. So what year would you rather live and what country – racial inequality? a looming Supreme Court battle? Huh (a mom with 7 kids and 2 adopted from hati and this is a problem to you?) and an upcoming election that happens every 4 years. “It’s a mess!” You have money to travel the world, NO there is no “racial inequity” outside of the media telling you so. .YES lockdowns do more harm then Covid which is the Flu. I guess its tough living in an age with your lap top, smart phone, CC, No wars, people of all colors succeeding when they put in the effort. So you want to take freedom and force people to stay home and starve? Not to be harsh but go live in the 60’s, the 1940’s, 1920, 1800’s and if you dont like the US then just leave. You come off as quite immature.
Kevin
And you come off as an insane racist, lady. No racial inequality in America? Seriously?? AND you think covid is a hoax? Man, I feel bad for your kids who have to put up with that kind of clueless, dangerous thinking. No wonder your country is going down the drain…
S. Widji
All the best Matt. Just keep writing and I look forward your posting. Stay safe and healthy!!!
Vladislav
Just found out about your blog, and I am reading it like a crazy man?.
I hope you will enjoy your stay in Mexic and keep us updated 🙂
Stay safe!
Chris Fry
Mexico….how amazing would that be. I was in Isla Mujeres a few years ago and would love to live there for a period of time to really explore. I think you have made the right decision and wishing you the best of luck with the move.
In Australia we have done pretty well. Borders are still restricted so I decided to travel around my own state and explore areas I have never been. Going great so far and really making the most of a bad situation 2020 has brought.
Looking forward to seeing was Mexico brings you 🙂
Jess
Way to go, Matt. I have a friend who is also nomadic and has been in Mexico (playa del carmen) for about a month now. She loves it, says there is a big community of expats hunkered down there and is so glad she left the USA. I hope it brings some peace and happiness to you! Best of luck.
Valeska
Hey Matt, I’m from Germany and it’s so interesting reading about how it’s going in the USA, how many people think about the current situation and about your feelings. The german media writes a lot about Biden-Trump but nothing about the people and their struggle. In our country we have a very good health insurance, there are unemployment benfits and health care has nothing to do with what are you going to vote. There are problems, but life is getting more and more normal – with COVID. I’m also lucky, because I have a save job, we have a small house in the countryside with backyard garden and we could visit Austria for two weeks this summer. Breathing the air on high hills and seeing nothing but nature is such a joy and brings you back to earth. This winter I’m dreaming of our next road trip in Scotland. Maybe next year, maybe in 2022. We’ll see. Wishing you and everyone all the best, be selfish, give your soul what it needs and maybe it’s a helpful thought, that the whole world is in this with you.
Roger Wellington
Enjoy Mexico! That sounds like a new fun chapter. Yea, sadly I don’t believe COVID is going anywhere either. We just have to stay safe wherever we are. Thank you for the post.
Vero
Hi Matt! Thanks for your post! This year has been a roller coaster ride. I live in France and now we are confined again. I was lucky enough to be able to travel in a campervan around Europe (a bit) between confinements. I wish you enjoy Mexico, I look forward to reading your posts!
Katie
It will be amazing to live in Mexico over the winter – I am happy to hear some positive things are coming up! This year has been super hard for me, but I am so happy that I moved from Australia to Sweden in June, even though we have lost so much, I am so grateful for what I have had this year!
Hannah Jones
I heard a lot of good things about Mexico and a lot of awesome places you can travel to. I’m excited to hear and check out your next blog once you’re in Mexico, I envy you for being able to make this move. I’m hoping that COVID will soon disappear so that all of us will be able to travel again without risking our health because of the virus. Take care always Matt!
Bri
Thanks Matt, definitely inspiring. I too have made the decision to move to Mexico for the winter.
Chris
Great decision Matt.
I just came back from Mexico and thought of you a couple of times, between all those backpackers and digital nomads. So how is your time going down there?
I was surprised to see such big differences in the handling of Corona restrictions. While hardly anyone cared about anything in Tulum, just 4-5 hours further (Merida) they had curfew, closed restaurants and 100% face mask coverings everywhere.
Is there any update on your trip I can read – I would be super interested.
Cheers from Punta Cana
Chris
NomadicMatt
I went to Merida and found the same thing. It was really great to see a part of Mexico that took things seriously.
C
At the end of the year, I always count the days that I was away from home or had company visiting me. This year was no different–112 days with one or the other. Although many events were canceled due to COVID, travel was and is still open all around the US. Did it look a little different? Indeed, but it was there for those who weren’t afraid to do it. I even did a couple of trips and wrote about them for the blog I contribute to fairly regularly.
Whether you agree or disagree about a place or people and their response to COVID, that doesn’t stop YOU from doing what you feel is right for you nor does it stop you from traveling. I’m sad for the places that have felt like they had to completely shut down thus causing the very thing you described in your article. The virus is real but so is the aftermath of bringing an economy to a halt and separating people who were made to be in relationship.