Santander Bank

It is my understanding that Santander is the largest bank in the Eurozone. Therefore some of you reading this may recognize the name. I myself had never heard of them until we moved to Mexico. The reason I bring it up is this.....If you are a Bank of America customer in the United States then do your ATM withdrawals at Santander ATM's and bank branches. It's Free!!!!!

When we found this out we started saving about $50 per month in ATM fees. If you do a $7,000.00 Peso withdrawal at Banamex it will cost you about $11.00 USD in ATM fees. I am not sure if other banks in Canada or the U.S. have this type of arrangement with a Mexican bank but at least BofA does. The only drawback is that Santander will only let you take out $6,000.00 pesos per withdrawal in a 24 hour period. I have taken out more than twice that much on some occassions at other banks, specifically the one aforementioned but not at Santander.

Just a word to the wise. Hope this helps.

Jay
jayblackshear@yahoo.com.

Is the Yucatan Safe?

Is Travel to the Yucatan Safe?

In view of headlines about crime and violence Along the border, and the State Department ’s travel warning concerning travel to Mexico, many people are wondering about the safety of visiting or moving to Mexico. 

Mexico is a big country and it’s incredibly diverse, so violence Along the border will not have Any effect on your vacation or move in, for example, the Yucatan any more than an earthquake in California would affect people in Chicago. Most of the violence that has taken place recently is due to conflicts between drug cartels and the Mexican and U.S. Authorities near the border.

Research your destination and choose a place that you will enjoy and feel safe in. There are plenty of places in Mexico where you can have a tranquil, relaxing vacation or move to and still be safe secure. Merida is the Capital City of the Yucatán and known as the “White City” due to its white buildings. Merida is only 15 minutes from Progreso, a beautiful & quaint beach town.

When people think about the Yucatan region of Mexico, they usually think about the archaeological Mayan site of Chichen Itza. But Merida is a beautiful colonial City that can serve as home base for exploring Mayan ruins, cenotes, haciendas and cathedrals. It is an extremely charming city for those that come to visit or stay here. Beyond that, it is known as the safest and most peaceful in Mexico City. Many American and Canadian expats have moved here for those reasons.

Let us help you find your own piece of paradise here in the Yucatan! Our family of 4 moved to Merida from San Antonio, TX & we love it! You will too!

Jay & Christine Blackshear.
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