The Expat Files: Living in Latin America

Johnny’supcoming week-long “Latin American Insider Seminar” will be in Guatemala and El Salvador (November 13–20, 2026). For details go to Expatplanb.com or click on:

https://www.expatplanb.com/expat-insider-seminar-nov-2026/...

Johnny announces his next one-week Latin American Insider seminar in Guatemala and El Salvador (November 14–20, 2026). He observes that most small tiendas, mini-marts, and wholesale businesses across Latin America are owned by Chinese and Koreans. Large chain stores like La Torre, Costco, and Walmart are owned by wealthy Latino families, while smaller scruffier shops are Asian-...

·  Avoid Facebook expat groups — they create a dependency bubble full of know-it-alls, sellers, and political ranting.

· WhatsApp is essential in Latin America; without it you’re basically cut off from daily life.

· Machetes are common and rarely used for crime except crimes of passion.

· Cleaning staff often salvage useful items from your trash and ma...

#1- More on that crazy Guatemalan Jade mining story:

 

#2- Proof why Latin American governments can never be trusted: 

Oh, and the US govt is even worse….

#3- The problem with Miami mailbox forward...