– Keith Romes relocated to Mexico during the pandemic for remote work. – His career includes major roles in tech, working with companies like Meta and TikTok. – He enjoys significantly lower living costs in Mexico, enhancing his quality of life. – Plans to explore other countries while maintaining flexibility in his work. – Aiming to set up a side hustle for extra income.
Life Transformation Through Remote Work
Keith Romes, a California-based tech professional, transitioned to working remotely from Mexico during the pandemic. Motivated by a desire for a better quality of life and lower living costs, he successfully navigated his job obligations without his employers’ knowledge. Romes plans to embrace this lifestyle again, valuing cultural exploration and affordability in living.
Career Path in the Tech Industry
After completing high school, Romes pursued immediate employment in the tech industry, landing his first role in quality assurance with LucasArts. His career progressed through contract positions at notable companies, including Google and Apple, where he experienced demanding work schedules that led to burnout. Romes eventually opted for contract roles to regain control over his time.
Discovering Mexico’s Benefits
In 2020, Romes set his sights on Mexico after recognizing the affordable healthcare and improved living standards available. The onset of the pandemic simplified his move, and he relocated to Cancún with minimal belongings. The transition allowed him to connect with Meta’s systems seamlessly from Mexico, where he enjoyed a significantly lower cost of living.
Affordable Lifestyle Abroad
While living in Mexico, Romes managed his expenses efficiently under $1,200 monthly, which reflected a stark contrast to California’s costs. He started his new life in an Airbnb, where he enjoyed the local culture, food, and accessibility to beaches. His remote work experiences in Mexico proved successful, despite initial concerns, with uninterrupted connectivity even during hurricanes.
Navigating Remote Work Regulations
In addition to his work with Meta, Romes took another remote position with Avalara, using a California address for his application. He refrained from disclosing his residency in Mexico, fearing potential consequences from his employers. He thrived in this new arrangement and frequently traveled, enriching his experience in Mexico.
Return to the U.S. Job Market
Romes transitioned from Avalara to TikTok in 2022, with a requirement to return to California for in-office work. Despite his reluctance to leave Mexico, financial necessities guided his return. He remained with TikTok until early 2023, currently focusing on two remote positions related to content review and AI.
Future Aspirations
With plans to relocate abroad again, Romes considers options like Colombia, Japan, or the Philippines. His average salary from remote contract work is around $40,000 every six months. Romes aims to establish a side hustle, seeking a financially sustainable lifestyle while prioritizing quality of life, healthcare, and cultural experiences.
Keith Romes successfully transitioned his career by embracing remote work opportunities abroad, particularly in Mexico, where he found an affordable lifestyle and rich cultural experiences. His journey illustrates the growing trend of professionals seeking better quality of life through remote work, as they navigate international living arrangements while balancing career obligations. His future aspirations include further exploration of international living, emphasizing sustainability and flexibility.
Original Source: www.businessinsider.com
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