Dear International Living Reader,
In every city, town, or village in Latin America where Suzan and I have lived, we’ve noticed an interesting expat behavior pattern.
On one hand, the expats in town are usually intent on becoming as much a part of the local society and culture as they can. They take language lessons. They go to cooking classes. They attend local arts functions and events. They get to know their neighbors, shopkeepers, and workers on a first-name basis.
On the other hand, they love to get together and “be expats.” Having the incredible experience of living in another country and culture isn’t much fun unless you can share it with someone who appreciates it. And no one appreciates what it’s like to be an expat like other expats.
Getting together over coffee or drinks in a comfy spot and gabbing in your native language is an important release that makes expat living much more enjoyable.
Case in point: Here in Merida, Mexico we have a little club called Jazzin’ Merida. It’s owned by an Iranian expat, David Abhari. On most nights, David features local acts. The musical talent in Merida is truly amazing. But on Thursday nights, The Legendary Yucatones take the stage.
The Yucatones are expat Gary DeRose and me, playing guitars and singing. We do a night of pop and folk tunes in English for anyone who shows up.
As you might guess, the crowd is mostly native English speakers, and we have a great time. I’ve come to look forward to these Thursday night performances not just as a chance to play, but also as a regular part of the social calendar that I share with my fellow expat Meridaños.
But here’s the best part…most Thursday nights, we have a few locals in the audience as well. David’s waitress, Nidi, often invites her college friends to check out the American tune selection (she’s a big Frank Zappa fan, as it turns out). Local musicians stop by to listen, and they often bring their instruments and do a song or two of their own. And occasionally truly fine artists like Yucatan singer Mari Carmen Perez show up and dazzle our little crowd with some world-class live music right on the spot.
It’s the best of both worlds. Our Thursday night gig has turned into a mini melting pot of musical culture where we fellow expats hash over the joys and tribulations of living abroad…right in the midst of the local crowd.
Most places with any significant expat population have a place for “hanging out,” like Jazzin’ Merida. They range from cafes to bookstores to bars. And they play in important part in improving the quality of expat life.
If you’re considering a move abroad, ask around when you’re visiting a town…locals (and local expats) can point you to the watering hole of choice. It’s a great place to network, ask questions, and get a genuine sense for what “real life” in a place is really like.
Stay happy and healthy,
Dan Prescher
Publisher, International Living
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