Retire in Mexico

"Ajijic is definitely a retirement area. The majority of the expat population appears to be over 60... That said, there are numerous cultural activities plus exploratory trips around the area and other Mexico venues. Night life is somewhat subdued...but at 75 bed time comes early for us.," explained a retiree in Ajijic.

"Retirees in Mexico and its surrounding areas can lead an active lifestyle filled with outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and plenty of recreation and nightlife. Many expats find Mexico a great destination to retire as it offers a rich cultural life, friendly locals to connect with, as well as natural beauty and warm climate. Whether it is fishing, golfing, horseback riding, exploring ancient ruins, or wandering through lively local markets, there are plenty of activities to keep people of all ages active and engaged. For those looking for nightlife, the cultural capital of Mexico City offers an array of bars, traditional tequila tasting, and a vibrant night-club scene. Additionally, there are beautiful beaches, stunning colonial villages, and intriguing archaeological sites to explore," explained one retiree living in Mexico.

"We live in Cozumel but travel to Merida often. Beautiful city with many benefits, Great Restaurants, Night Life and hot as hades in the summer," said one member in Merida.

"We have a small but active ex-pat community. We have a ladies lunch group once a month to hear speakers on local issues and meet other expats, plus keep up on what is happening in town. We have a couples group that has dinners every Thursday at different restaurants also to meet the other ex-pats. We have golf groups, tennis, bridge, cards, a church service or two in English. We also have a new Gold's gym. The university of Colima has a great music department that has brought us some classical music concerts the last few years, this year we are having Romeo and Juliet. We have many great restaurants and most have live music and dancing," remarked one retiree in Manzanillo.

"There is a large expat community in Ajijic. Lots of things to do here," explained a member in Ajijic and Chapala.

"What are you waiting for? Don't let the news scare you. They want you to be trapped up there in your homes. Come down and see what paradise is all about," said one retiree in Manzanillo.

"Be positive, learn the culture, and immerse yourself in the society, you'll be surprised at how many things we have in common," commented one retiree living in Apizaco, Mexico.

"Getting mail! The mail system in Mexico is not great, or secure, so I need to rely on friends coming from the States to bring mail and packages. Receiving mail in other countries where I've lived has also posed a challenge in that forwarding mail is often quite expensive," remarked one retiree in Lake Chapala.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Mexico is the opportunity to experience a different culture and share in the hospitality and warmth of the Mexican people. Living in Mexico can provide retirees with a more relaxed lifestyle and lower cost of living, allowing them to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest. Additionally, retirees can enjoy a variety of activities such as exploring historic ruins, relaxing on the beach, and partaking in the rich culinary scene. Furthermore, there is an abundance of stunning natural beauty throughout Mexico and breathtaking views from virtually anywhere," explained one retiree living in Mexico.

"We are living the "american dream" in Mexico. We have a wonderful life. We are pampered, have time to pursue whatever we want, have time for our friends, the weather allows us to go outside almost every day to play. I am selling real estate, so not retired, but my husband is," said one retiree in living in Manzanillo, Mexico.

"We came from the US about 4 yrs ago, have always been adventurous and have lived in several states mostly in the west. For us it had nothing whatsoever to do with the political environment or the economics. We had saved and prepared well f or retirement, more lucky than smart. We knew the culture and people would be wonderful and the climate is so much better than in beautiful Seattle. Our kids are scattered throughout the US and we travel back every few months and they come here. Just what we hoped for. The city of Merida is fabulous. We live by choice in a neighborhood where no one speaks English so we try (somewhat successfully) to communicate in Spanish and to fit in. People are accepting and kind. Driving is an adrenaline rush every day. All in all, it has been 99% of what we had hoped and plan to stay for as long as our health is good. We have used healthcare here numerous times and have found it to be of highest level and advanced," explained a retiree in Mexico.

"Every day is an adventure... Shopping is fun as we try new products each week... Some are not as good but many are as good or better than NOB (North of the Border). The cost of living allows us to eat out more and the dining selection here is excellent.," explained one retiree living in Ajijic.

"We have several hospitals here and are only 3 and a half hours from Guadalajara which has as good medical care as anywhere in the world. We had a friend who spent 3 weeks in intensive care in Guadalajara and the total cost was 35,000.00 dollars. Think of that in the US.. and she is well now," explained one retiree living in Manzanillo.

"Yes, I get 100% medical services such as Doctors, Hospitals, Operations & Medicines for free through the ISSTE system. My Wife was an English teacher at a Federal School so I was able to enter the system as her spouse," said one retiree in living in Apizaco, Mexico.

"A few weeks ago I used my GEHA (government employees health association) insurance at Hospital San Antonio. Well I should say I tried to use it. At first the staff at Hospital San Antonio said that my entire emergency would be covered but they charged my $25000 USD UP Front and I had to pay it or the administrative staff there told me they would send me to a public hospital in the worst part of Guadalajara. They bullied me and I felt so uncomfortable but I was not in a position to fight. I paid the up front fee and then on discharge they just deducted it from the bill which I still had to pay and they gave me a bill with codes to submit to my insurer for reimbursement...such lies and thieves trying to trick people about accepting insurances. I will never go back to Hospital San Antonio in Tlyacapan," explained a retiree in Lake Chapala.

"It's really no different that meeting people anywhere, with the exception that Mexicans - in general - are more welcoming. Smile, laugh, wave, learn simple greetings. Breathe..," said a retiree who moved to Mexico.

"We have two groups to meet other ex-pats. One is for couples, they meet weekly and go to dinner. Their name is Thirsty Thursdays. The other is a ladies lunch group. we meet once a month at the restaurant El Tablau, at 1 pm. Everyone is welcome and we generally have a speaker. From these two groups you can learn about the charities and opportunities in Manzanillo," said one retiree in Manzanillo.

"Basically the same way you meet people everywhere. Volunteering somewhere is a great way as is taking an in-person class, a church, and, of course, expat groups," commented one retiree living in Mexico.

"Stroll the malecón in the evening, hang out at Captain Don's bar in 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, and at probably lots of bars in Old Town ("Zona Romantica")," explained one retiree living in Puerto Vallarta.

"It depends on who you want to meet. There is an English library inside the restaurant, Lupita's, a few steps from the Bascilica on Arciga Street. A volunteer group has their meetings there. English is spoken. They would welcome volunteers. If you want to meet Indigenous Purepecha, Mulle (dock) San Pedrito is run by them and it is a beautiful park next to the lake. Also they sell their art on the street and in the mercado in Centro ( open every day-even Christmas.) They also sell fruits and vegetables, clothes, shoes, socks, anything you need. To become friends with local people, it is necessary to speak Spanish and they are friendly. There are usually English speakers sitting outdoors at a cafe on Plaza Grande. One can take Spanish lessons as well," said one retiree in living in Patzcuaro, Mexico.

"People here love kayaking, fishing, scuba and off-roading. There is a large, modern marina. There are rocky beaches, sandy beaches, public and isolated. There are also many restaurants with excellent food - Italian, Mexican, American, Greek, and even Texas Style BBQ," said one retiree in San Carlos.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Mexico often find that life there is full of opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Mexico's mild climate, friendly locals and vibrant cities make it a desirable place for many expats and digital nomads looking to settle down in a new country. The country also offers a variety of activities and locations for expats, ranging from its stunning beaches, old-world colonial cities, and incredible nature preserves. Expats and digital nomads in Mexico enjoy a low cost of living, and they are able to find affordable housing, transportation, and food. Although learning the local language can be challenging due to the lack of English-speaking facilities and programs, the country is known for its welcoming culture and its legal system that aids expats in obtaining visas and permanency. Overall, Mexico is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads, who can enjoy the warm weather, low cost of living, and vibrant culture while continuing their work abroad," commented one retiree living in Mexico.

"Generally the expats are retired and their lives revolve around golf, tennis, bridge, socializing, walking or swimming in the ocean, reading, and whatever else they feel like. We have quite a few artists and others willing to share their knowledge. There are charities and animal welfare groups always looking for help," explained one retiree living in Manzanillo.

"Saltillo is a small city/large town, so it's relatively quiet here. People here seem more respectful of their neighbors than in other areas of Mexico. For example, in general people don't blare their music from their homes or use their car horns as doorbells. People work hard and enjoy their families. While social stratification runs the gamut here, in general people are friendly and laid-back. While soccer is still a huge pastime, baseball appears to be just as popular, if not more popular, than soccer. Saltillo's professional baseball team won the 2009 national championship, and I always hear my neighbor kids hitting a ball around. Saltillenses are good runners, too. Every June, the city hosts a half-marathon, and throughout the year there are a variety of 5K and 10K races. Saltillo also boasts a plethora of good public parks--great for picnics, enjoying some green spaces, or playgrounds for kids," said one retiree in living in Saltillo, Mexico.

"Tequis is a small, colonial town that caters to weekend tourists, mostly from Mexico City and surrounding environs. Many of them own weekend homes here and come to get away from the hub-bub of big city life. Local denizens are very family oriented and making a living is just a normal part of everyday life. No big corporate presence here, just small businesses and many restaurants. Tons of small specialty shops," explained a retiree in Tequisquiapan.

"Read www.yucatanliving.com and www.meridainsider.com for information on living here," said one retiree in living in Yucatan, Mexico.

"I would say, "Brother, you will not find a more excellent choice for a place to retire here in Mexico". Sure, there are more exciting places with nightclubs, wild bars with loud music and perhaps an ocean to frolic in, but with that comes a lot of undesireable "junk". The weekdays here are very quiet and relaxing, while the weekends are fun filled due to tourists and special functions designed by the Presidencia municipal. The elevation here is about 6,000 feet, which means we do not get hot. Most days are in the 75-80 degree range, though it can get a little chilly at night during the winter. I enjoy a second floor two bedroom apartment right across from the main town plaza. I keep the balcony doors open at all times and revere in the almost constant breeze that keeps my place cool, night & day. Rent? Under $300 US per month. Try and beat that in the US," explained a retiree in Tequisquiapan.

"Living costs are about 2/3 of those in the states. This is a relatively new area. 60 years ago there was nothing here but a fishing village. Not as cheap as in other parts of Mexico, but still a savings. Bring a good sturdy vehicle. The weather and the waters are sublime (although hot and humid in the summer months). Very low crime area, but petty theft is here as it is everywhere. You feel welcome wherever you go. Relax. Sometimes you have water and electricity...sometimes you don't. Bring butter," explained one retiree living in San Carlos.

"I have a 3 bedroom, 3 bath in a nice gated community. Very safe and quiet well except for the fireworks!!! Be prepared for 2 weeks in September. The weeks from Sept 6 to Sept 20th, Magdelena has a Saints Festival with almost nonstop fireworks,fiestas, parades and music. Then it goes into the week of Sept 16 fireworks, fiestas and music!! In December we have the posadas. The rest of the time it is quiet. We have marvelous hot air balloons, or on the ground tours of all the marvelous wineries," said one member in Tequisquiapan.

"In Mexico, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and sports complexes. Beaches are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. Parks provide a great place to relax, take a walk, or have a picnic. Sports complexes offer a variety of activities, such as tennis, basketball, and soccer. Mexico also has a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theaters. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Mexico has a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and mountain biking," said one retiree in Mexico.

"Anything related to the beach, snorkeling, golf, exploring cenotes (caves), dining out. The food is amazing and the options are endless," remarked one retiree in Playa Del Carmen.

"Boating, swimming, fishing, snorkeling, scuba, para sailing, sunset cruises, booze cruises, bird island tours, Jack Nicklaus golf courses and others, tennis, ultralight flying, ziplining, and lots of fine dining with ocean views," explained one retiree living in Puerto Penasco.

"We have so many large grocery stores in Playa, that I wonder sometimes how they stay in business. We have two Walmarts. Local produce markets are not easy to find. There is one very small one in town once a week," said one retiree in living in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico.

"People living in Mexico typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and department stores. Many people also shop at street vendors and small shops. Additionally, online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in Mexico," wrote one person in Mexico.

"We have Super Ley, Ley Express, Bodega Aurrera (Walmart) Sam's Club, Local vegetable and meat markets, Oxxo convenience stores, and a local store that brings special U.S. food here for our convenience (salami, bacon, sausage, bagels, english muffins, diet sodas, cheeses, spices, pies, etc) and special orders," explained one retiree living in Puerto Penasco.

"Super mercado Leys grocery store in the center of the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta has most everything and more than many U.S. supermarkets. La Comer, a large gourmet grocery store, puts Whole Foods to shame. It has quality wines, liquor, all cuts of meat, vegetables, canned goods and specialty gourmet items," said one member in Mexico.