Janet Blaser

Author / Journalist

I've been a writer, editor and storyteller my entire life, starting out in fourth grade writing my own versions of Aesop's fables. As an adult, I always ended up writing about great food, amazing places, fascinating people and unique events. My work has appeared in numerous travel and expat publications as well as newspapers and magazines in and around Santa Cruz, California, where I worked as a journalist, writer and editor for 20+ years.

I moved to Mazatlán, Mexico in 2006 on a wing and a prayer, following a long-time dream of living in a more tropical climate and after seeing a very "outside the box" opportunity to make a living there. I started M! Magazine, an English monthly publication, to share information with the expat community about the wonderful, welcoming city of Mazatlán, and also founded the Mercado Organico de Mazatlán (MOM), a weekly open-air market where local farmers sell their organically grown produce and products. Why Mexico? I love the glorious weather, laid-back and affordable lifestyle and constant opportunities to learn (willingly or not) new things.

During an 18-month sabbatical in a tiny rural town on the jungle coast in Nayarit, Mexico, I found myself inspired by the beauty and tranquility to compile "Why We Left: An Anthology of American Women Expats." Since its publication in 2019, the book has become an Amazon bestseller and inspired countless others to “take the leap,” follow their dreams and move to Mexico.

Now living back in Mazatlán, my days are filled with freelance writing, surfing, gardening and learning the art of relaxation. I count among my many blessings three wonderful children as well as a trio of delightful grandchildren.