Retire 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," explained a retiree in Merida.

"My wife says that I have all the patience in the world.... because I have never used any... That might be a bit extreme but having lived overseas for 20 some years I have learned to adapt... Here are the things that I have found important to surviving and enjoying a new country: Flexibility is a requirement for successfully living abroad. Do your schedule in pencil not pen. Lose your comparisons with your former home. It is what it is... Learn the local ground rules and play the game. Have or obtain a sense of humor... Without it one will not last long in any environment and certainly not outside his native land. Have or obtain a sense of adventure. This is an opportunity to meet new people, experience new things and to learn a new culture. Learn basic local language niceties and build your vocabulary... A simple Gracias coupled with a warm smile will work wonders..," said one retiree in Ajijic.

"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.

"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," explained one retiree living in Manzanillo.

"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," explained one retiree living in Lake Chapala.

"So far everything has moved right along except at a slower pace... We used the services of a recommended local attorney and we have a property manager. Between the two we have taken care of buying a home, car and paying the bills... If we had to do this alone it would take more time and probably peg the frustration meter...We will eventually take over the bill paying etc but for now this has proven to be a worth while expenditure," said one retiree in living in Ajijic, Mexico.

"The US and Canadian news reports scaring everyone about coming down to paradise," explained a retiree in Manzanillo.

"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," said one retiree in living in 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," said one retiree in living in Lake Chapala, Mexico.

"The healthcare system in Mexico is largely divided into private and public services. Public healthcare is largely provided by the federal health system and is available to anyone who meets the country's numeric residency requirements. Private healthcare is often seen as the more reliable option, which generally requires health insurance or out-of-pocket payments. In general, healthcare in Mexico is quite advanced, with sophisticated medical technologies and well-trained medical professionals available in both public and private facilities. Mexico has made progress in recent years in prioritising the health and well-being of its citizens, with a significant emphasis on preventive care and public health initiatives, such as the introduction of new health insurance options," explained a retiree in Mexico.

"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.

"We have not had to use hospital services as of yet. However, Guadalajara has exceptional hospitals that are affordable and an hour away. Local dentist and medical services receive high marks from those living here any length of time," said one member in Ajijic.

"Expats in Mexico often join social clubs, language classes, and online forums devoted to helping foreigners adjust to life in Mexico. Additionally, many expats will connect with local expat organizations such as the International Newcomers Network, which coordinates events and activities for expats around the country. Another way for expats to meet people is by becoming involved in social volunteer work, such as helping out at a local soup kitchen or animal shelter. Many cities, particularly touristy destinations, also have local arts and music scenes that expats can become involved in. Finally, Mexico is known for its vibrant nightlife, so expats can often make friends while out at bars, clubs, and cultural events," said a retiree who moved to Mexico.

"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," said one retiree in Mexico.

"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," commented one retiree living in Patzcuaro, Mexico.

"Make learning Spanish a priority. Hire locals to clean your house or build your house or walk your dog or wash your car... whatever. Force yourself to interact as much as possible," explained one retiree living in Yucatan.

"Saltillo appears to be a much friendlier city than others I have lived in (Puebla, Cuernavaca, Toluca). However, it was not easy to get to know people until I got connected with the Saltillo International Church (www.saltillointerationalchurch.com). They have bilingual services on Sundays, and for those who may not be "church-y" (or, like me, prefer the neighborhood church) have book studies for adults, men, and women throughout the week. Also, if your Spanish is decent www.desaltillo.com is helpful to find out events that are going on in town. If you friend them on facebook, they'll send daily updates--so helpful for me, as we don't regularly buy the newspaper," said one retiree in living in Saltillo, Mexico.

"People tend to work long hours during the week, not much on the weekends which is generally reserved for families. If you have kids you will be invited to tons of birthday parties, parents are expected to attend, not just drop the kids off. The parties are quite extravagant compared to the US," commented one retiree living in Mexico City, 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 one retiree living in Tequisquiapan.

"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 living in San Carlos, Mexico.

"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," explained a retiree in Saltillo.

"Renovating old colonial homes, enjoying the beach, learning about the Mayan culture," explained one retiree living in Yucatan.

"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.

"There are many people from the USA, Canada and Europe have visited Mexico, love it and have considered relocation. Many visitors also spend their Mexico trip to the top resort areas at the best time of year to be there. This being the winter months. The down season is usually from May through October and the top resort areas are ghost towns. Reason for this is the abysmal heat and humidity. I once spent a month in Mazatlan in August. Mazatlan is just the start of the tropics and the heat and high humidity were abysmal and almost impossible to tolerate. Even walking a short distance can be very unpleasant as are the temperatures that can top 120 degree with 98% humidity. The only tolerable place to be are inside with the air conditioning on high. I love and visit the tropical areas yet only in the winter. I live in the South area of Rosarito Beach, Baja California. Year round climate is beautiful. Never too hot or cold. Winters are very mild and similar to San Diego, Ca. I have friends in Rosarito that spend their summers here and winters in the tropics. Living in the tropics is most certainly not the ideal area for most people. Even the locals hate the low seasons. I have not seen this topic get a lot of attention here yet what I have said is absolutely true," explained one retiree living in Mexico.

"I suggest you never secure a 6 mo lease until you see and feel the property. Committing to 6 month online is not recommended whether you get a 180 day visa or not. Get a hotel when you arrive and make that your base camp to find longer arrangements. Don't think what you see online is what is actually there. Bait and switch happens in Mexico....and don't forget it. Once they have your money you are behind the curve," said one member in San Carlos.

"There is a large sport club here for tennis and golf. Every Sunday the streets are closed for bikeathons for the entire family to participate in. And any time you want to hike, go visit a ruin. Most of the cenotes allow swimming and are wonderfully cool and magical," remarked one retiree in Merida.

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

"All around Playa del Carmen there are adventure area for zip lining, ATV riding, cave tubing, snorkeling, scuba diving, tours to visit Mayan Ruins and nearby resorts, beaches and islands such as Cozumel, Tulum, Islas Mujeres etc," said one retiree in living in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

"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," wrote one person in Mexico.

"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.

"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.

"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 in Puerto Penasco.

"SHOPPING is great. Many do their grocery shopping at Wal-Mart, Sams Club, Chedraui (the Mexican version of Wal-Mart that is fantastic) the Mega store and others. Fifth Avenue is known for its lively, atmosphere with stores, restaurants with all types of specialty foods such as Mexican, Argentinian, Brazilian, French, Italian, Seafood, Steak and even fast food places like McDonald's and Burger King, Domino's Pizza, KFC. We have Office Depot, Home Depot, DHL, Fedex...just about everything," explained a member in Playa del Carmen.

"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," explained a retiree living in Mexico.