For those considering Mexico, residents of Mexico City are starting to complain about the number of Americans flooding into the city. Apparently, they refuse to learn Spanish. Where have we heard that complain before?

I have a friend who winters in the state of Oaxaca in the south of the country. Loves it there. He's been going there for nearly 20 years and won't consider any place else.

A growing number of people are considering Panama. There is a growing expat community there and the visa process, while bureaucratic, is tolerable. But a good, reputable lawyer is strongly advised. The latest round of demonstrations against inflation, especially the high cost of fuel, seem to be over for the time being at least. The PanAmerican highway has reopened after a couple of weeks of being blockaded by protesters which is a good sign.