Are you tired of just dreaming about living abroad? Do you crave a deeper connection to new cultures and a life filled with authentic experiences? This episode of Travel Documented is for you.

Join Samantha, an experienced international pet sitter and solo female traveler, as she shares invaluable insights from her own journey of making the leap abroad. After over two decades in Dallas, Texas, Samantha traded the familiar for nearly two years of immersive travel through Mexico, from Mexico City to Cancun, embracing local life every step of the way.

This episode isn't a rigid "how-to guide." Instead, it's a candid conversation designed to spark your excitement and provide real, actionable clarity. Samantha talks about what it truly means to pursue a life abroad, especially as a single woman. She pulls back the curtain on the motivations that drive such a significant change, helping you "nail your why." You'll hear about the essential groundwork and how international pet sitting became her unique pathway to deep cultural immersion.

In this episode, we're talking about:

• Discovering Your "Why": Understanding the core motivations for living abroad and embracing life transformation.

• Concrete Steps for Preparation: Practical insights into planning your move, simplifying your life, and navigating new environments.

• The Solo Female Traveler Perspective: Addressing specific considerations for women traveling alone and making the leap.

• International Pet Sitting: Samantha's authentic experiences and how it opens doors to cultural immersion and a nomadic lifestyle.

Get ready to explore the exciting realities, common hurdles, and fundamental preparations for living abroad. Discover how to transform your dream into a tangible reality, all through the lens of genuine shared experiences and insightful conversation.

Connect with Travel Documented

• Our Website: Find all our resources, articles, and more at traveldocumented.com

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• Explore Our Journey on YouTube: See our adventures and behind-the-scenes moments on the Travel Documented YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Travel.Documented/

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🌎 Thinking about moving to Mexico or curious about the real process behind obtaining residency? In this episode of Travel Documented, I take you behind the scenes of my journey — from my first exploratory trip to Mazatlán, to navigating the consulate process in Del Rio, Texas, to finally completing my residency requirements in the heart of Mexico.

✨ Here's what you'll discover in today’s episode:

• Why taking an exploratory trip first can save you time (and headaches) later

• How joining Facebook expat groups helped me prepare and stay informed

• What it’s really like dealing with different Mexican consulates — and why I chose a smaller town over a big city

• Step-by-step how I prepared my documents, booked my appointments, and handled the interview

• What happens after you’re approved — and why it’s only the beginning!

• How working with a trusted bilingual attorney’s office in Ajijic made the final residency process stress-free

• Tips for completing your visa process once inside Mexico

I’ll also share some personal highlights, like the unforgettable moment when strangers in the consulate lobby cheered for me, and why getting my residency card (the "tarjeta de residente") was one of the proudest moments of my life. 🌟

If you're dreaming of building a new life in Mexico, this episode will give you an honest, step-by-step look at what it's really like — the excitement, the challenges, and everything in between.

📌 Helpful Resources Mentioned:

• Mazatlán Exploratory Trip Video ➡️

  My Website ➡️ TravelDocumented.com — where I blog about travel, house sitting, and life as a solo adventurer!

👣 About Travel Documented:
Travel Documented is your passport to real-world adventures, solo travel inspiration, and the pursuit of life beyond borders. I’m Samantha, a seasoned traveler and international house sitter, sharing firsthand experiences and insights to help you create your own life of freedom and exploration. 🌍

📬 Stay Connected:
🔔 Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode!
💬 Drop a comment or question — I'd love to hear from you!
✈️ Visit my website and blog at TravelDocumented.com for more stories, guides, and tips about traveling, house sitting, and living abroad.

💬 Have questions about getting residency in Mexico? Want to hear more about life as an expat? Let’s start the conversation! Viva México!

Visit us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Travel.Documented

What happens when you mix beach-town charm with boho vibes,surf culture, and a rooftop hammock with a view? Welcome to Sayulita,Mexico—one of our favorite hippie beach towns on the Pacific Coast. In thisepisode, I take you along on my solo adventure from Puerto Vallarta toSayulita, where we dive into cobblestone chaos, morning smoothies, digitalnomad rooftops, and a hostel perched on a hill so steep, taxis think twice.

I’ll show you around the Viajeros Hostel (yes, there’s apool and a killer view), share budget travel tips using HostelWorld, and giveyou the inside scoop on what makes Sayulita a must-visit for surfers, seekers,and solo travelers alike.

🌊 Get ready to explorebarefoot streets, colorful markets, and sunrise views that just might changeyour life. Subscribe now to Travel Documented Podcast and let’s get intothis journey together.

What’s it like to experience Puerto Vallarta beyond the tourist hotspots? In this episode of Travel Documented, Samantha, a solo female traveler, shares her journey through the vibrant neighborhoods of Puerto Vallarta and a scenic escape to the laid-back beach town of Sayulita.

Starting with a stay at an inviting Airbnb in Puerto Vallarta’s Marina District, Samantha explores local fruit stands, street taco stalls, and even a Mexican Walmart. Discover tips on navigating the area, finding hidden gems, and connecting with the local culture.

The adventure continues with a trip to Sayulita—Mexico’s famous bohemian beach town. Learn about the different ways to get there, from budget-friendly buses to private drivers, and hear about Samantha’s memorable Uber ride filled with cultural insights from a local driver.

Ready to explore Mexico’s authentic side? Hit play and experience Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita through Samantha’s eyes!

Find us:

https://linktr.ee/traveldocumented

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Travel.Documented/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/samlivenow/

Website: https://traveldocumented.com/

Buy Us a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/travelmexico

🎧 Audio Note: This episode was adapted from YouTube and may reference visuals best experienced on screen.

📺 Watch the journey: youtube.com/@travel.documented

📬 Connect or collaborate: traveldocumented.com/contact-us

📘 Want free stays while traveling? Grab the international house & pet sitting guide: ko-fi.com/traveldocumented

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica a top destination for travelers and expats alike? In this episode of Travel Documented, Samantha, a solo female traveler, takes you on a vibrant journey through the heart of Old Town Puerto Vallarta, home to the famous Playa de los Muertos beach and its iconic curved pier.

Discover the area’s welcoming LGBTQ+ community, world-class dining, boutique shops, and electric nightlife where the party continues into the early hours. Samantha also shares personal travel tips, from staying safe on cobblestone streets to finding art galleries, whale-watching tours, and even coworking spaces in the area.

Plus, hear thoughtful reflections on cultural respect, learning Spanish basics, and navigating life as a traveler in Mexico. Whether you're planning a visit or dreaming of a sun-soaked escape, this episode will inspire and prepare you for an unforgettable adventure.

Ready to explore Puerto Vallarta’s best-kept secrets? Hit play and experience the magic of Zona Romántica!

Find us:

https://linktr.ee/traveldocumented

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Travel.Documented/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/samlivenow/

Website: https://traveldocumented.com/

Buy Us a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/travelmexico

🎧 Audio Note: This episode was adapted from YouTube and may reference visuals best experienced on screen.

📺 Watch the journey: youtube.com/@travel.documented

📬 Connect or collaborate: traveldocumented.com/contact-us

📘 Want free stays while traveling? Grab the international house & pet sitting guide: ko-fi.com/traveldocumented

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s it like to combine shopping, relaxation, and scenic views in Puerto Vallarta? In this episode of Travel Documented, Samantha, a solo female traveler, takes you on a unique adventure through the Galleria Mall and beyond.

After a scenic 10-mile walk from Zona Romántica, she arrives at the Galleria Mall, discovering new stores, getting a much-needed haircut, and even indulging in a pedicure. Samantha also shares tips on finding tech gadgets, shoes, and services that can be tricky to locate while traveling in Mexico.

The adventure continues with breathtaking views of the nearby marina, where cruise ships dock, and unforgettable sunsets light up the sky. Finally, she explores the serene riverside paths of Puerto Vallarta, showcasing its natural beauty beyond the tourist hotspots.

Ready for a mix of adventure and relaxation? Hit play and experience Puerto Vallarta’s best shopping, views, and hidden paths!

Find us:

https://linktr.ee/traveldocumented

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Travel.Documented/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/samlivenow/

Website: https://traveldocumented.com/

Buy Us a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/travelmexico

🎧 Audio Note: This episode was adapted from YouTube and may reference visuals best experienced on screen.

📺 Watch the journey: youtube.com/@travel.documented

📬 Connect or collaborate: traveldocumented.com/contact-us

📘 Want free stays while traveling? Grab the international house & pet sitting guide: ko-fi.com/traveldocumented

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s it like to explore Puerto Vallarta beyond its famous tourist areas? In this episode of Travel Documented, Samantha, a solo female traveler, takes you on a journey through the authentic neighborhood of Benito Juarez, nestled next to the bustling Zona Romántica.

Walk along quiet streets less traveled, navigate cobblestone paths, and experience the everyday charm of Puerto Vallarta’s local life. Samantha shares her walk from Benito Juarez to the beach, offering tips for staying safe, spotting street dogs, and finding hidden gems along the way.

The adventure wraps up with a relaxing beach day, where she enjoys warm ocean breezes, beautiful views, and the laid-back vibe that makes Puerto Vallarta unforgettable.

Ready to explore Puerto Vallarta like a local? Hit play and walk through its vibrant streets with Samantha!

Find us:

https://linktr.ee/traveldocumented

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Travel.Documented/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/samlivenow/

Website: https://traveldocumented.com/

Buy Us a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/travelmexico

🎧 Audio Note: This episode was adapted from YouTube and may reference visuals best experienced on screen.

📺 Watch the journey: youtube.com/@travel.documented

📬 Connect or collaborate: traveldocumented.com/contact-us

📘 Want free stays while traveling? Grab the international house & pet sitting guide: ko-fi.com/traveldocumented

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wonder how to get from San Miguel de Allende to Querétaro Airport with ease? In this episode of Travel Documented, Samantha, a solo female traveler, shares her seamless experience using Bajiogo, a highly recommended airport shuttle service.

From being picked up directly at her hostel to meeting fellow expats from the U.S. and Canada, the ride turned into an unexpectedly fun and social journey. Samantha also describes the breathtaking views of San Miguel’s steep streets, hidden hills, and scenic routes she had never explored before—all while enjoying a comfortable and informative ride.

Whether you're planning your own trip or just curious about traveling in Mexico, this episode offers practical tips and a glimpse into the charm of a well-connected travel experience.

Ready to hit the road? Tune in and enjoy the ride!

Find us:

https://linktr.ee/traveldocumented

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Travel.Documented/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/samlivenow/

Website: https://traveldocumented.com/

Buy Us a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/travelmexico

🎧 Audio Note: This episode was adapted from YouTube and may reference visuals best experienced on screen.

📺 Watch the journey: youtube.com/@travel.documented

📬 Connect or collaborate: traveldocumented.com/contact-us

📘 Want free stays while traveling? Grab the international house & pet sitting guide: ko-fi.com/traveldocumented

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.