Expat Files - 08/15/14

-Did you know that in this very macho Latin society there are many, many tens of thousands of educated but unmarried Latin career women, i.e., doctors, accountants, teachers, psychologists, managers, etc., still living with mommy and daddy? In fact, except for old spinsters without immediate family, it’s rare to find an unmarried Latin career woman who lives alone. Stranger yet, young Latin women living alone almost always arouse some suspicion and disdain from family and neighbors.  

 

-It’s truly amazing, in spite of stark realities, how Latins have completely bought into the fantasy of the so called “American Dream”. Look at the unremitting waves of illegals sneaking in the states by the millions. So then, what are gringo expats supposed to say to Latins who think that we’re crazy for coming down against the flow, abandoning that totally absurd “Dream” ourselves? Crazier yet, what do gringos say to clueless Latins (without actually calling them morons) who might ask for advice or help from you with the US visa process?    

 

From the “be careful what you wish for department”:

How about this email….

Q: Gee Johnny, the folks back home can’t believe it. I really won the lottery. Look at me, a middle class guy from Milwaukee, engaged to a beautiful, rich Colombian girl whose father owns a giant teak plantation, a beer company and a few cement factories. How lucky can a gringo get.  

A: Well, just wait till after the honeymoon. Then tell me about it how great it is- after your identity gets absorbed into that wealthy Latin family- like the Borg.  

 

-We all know by now that Argentina is in default. But what most don’t know is that there are nine other countries in the world with identical international, (read crap) credit ratings. And yes most are the usual suspects, but there are specifically two Latin countries on the feces list that will certainly surprise you.        

 

-Do follow the link on the main page at www.ExpatWisdom.com to schedule a private phone, Skype or Mumble consult with me. If you want to discuss the details of living, working, playing, doing business and/or retiring in Latin America. Now you and I can talk about your situation one on one.