An Expat Talks about Retiring in Ajijic & Chapala, Mexico

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Ajijic & Chapala

Why did you choose to retire abroad?

I close to retire in Ajijic/Lake Chapala, Mexico for better cost of living, better weather, friendly polite people.

Are you retired abroad all year or part of the year?

All year

Why did you choose the country you retired to?

Married a Mexican Lady

Did you ever live abroad before you retired abroad?

No

How long have you lived abroad since you retired abroad?

14 years

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

How many countries (other than your home country) have you lived in as a retiree?

None

What have been the most challenging aspects of being retired abroad?

Adapting to the Manana attitude

What have been the most rewarding aspects of being retired abroad?

Great weather and low cost of living

What would you do differently if you were just starting the retire abroad process?

Nothing

What is life like for a retiree in your city and its surroundings? (Is there an active expat community? Cultural Attractions? Recreation? Nightlife?)

There is a large expat community in Ajijic. Lots of things to do here.

What residency documents or visas did you need to obtain to retire in your host country? How difficult was this process? (Please describe)

Easy process if you meet the qualifications and use a facilitator

Did you buy a home or apartment, or rent one? Is this a difficult process? (Please describe)

Bough a home, cash market. Almost no financing.

Financially, has living abroad in your host country met your expectations? Exceeded them?

Exceeded them. Can afford a maid and gardener.

What are the most important financial considerations for retiring to your host country?

Meet the minimum financial requirements or more

How much can a retiree live on comfortably in your host country?

You can retire in Ajijic on $1500 USD a month and up.

Do you have access to quality medical care? (Please describe - is it close? Expensive?)

Close and reasonable.

William Russell
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Is there a lot of crime where you live? (Please describe)

No. Some small petty crime.

Describe available transportation where you live. Do you need a car? Is there access to safe public transportation?

A car is nice, but good inexpensive buses and taxis are abundant.

Is there high-speed internet access where you live?

Yes, there is high-speed internet access in Ajijic via telephone lines.

Do you have any other thoughts you would like to share about retiring abroad?

Lake Chapala is an inexpensive place to live and has a large expat community from all over the the wolrld with near perfect year around weather and lots of activities for retirees to take advantage of.