Maybe the map and article will help you in your search if you are looking to relocate if you are thinking of […] A retiree who has lived all over the world as a house sitter, talks about packing up and making the permanent move to Lake Chapala, Mexico. Wish there had been more of this provided on threads written by expats. Yet another expat described how he choose Puerto Vallarta, "My decision was Puerto Vallarta. Credit: Neldahinojosa | Wikimedia Commons. She discovered a more affordable and enjoyable way of life, and Ramon, her Mexican husband. Combined with the warm weather and low cost of living, the chance to enjoy the beach live all year is a major selling point for Mexico. Percebu’s two miles of beachfront, interesting tidal pools and 75 modes of accommodation — from trailers to ocean view houses — attract repeat customers. And if you’re curious, most of the information for this article came from Mexico On My Mind and Expat Exchange. Baja Border Crossing Cabo San Lucas Cancun Costa Rica Expat Jobs Expat Stories Guanajuato International Schools Isla Mujeres Kindle Books La Paz List Of Schools Los Cabos Manzanillo Playa Del Carmen Reader Questions Retirees In Mexico San Jose Del Cabo Shipping Cars To Mexico Taxes For Expats Tulum. But she didn’t stop with the success of her restaurant. Manzanillo, Mexico is another location that is still safe and has a small expat community. “We offer our guests a variety of services, such as picking them up at the airport, the use of an SUV, obtaining dinner reservations or theater tickets,” says Loretta. She built a large stable on the property and began breeding Aztecas, Mexico’s exclusive horse, a cross between the beautiful but fragile Andalusian and the hearty quarter horse. A large ExPat community with many Canadians. We don’t use heat lamps.” Warm and charismatic, Suzanne is at her restaurant most nights to welcome old friends and make new ones. Tru, who had loved horses since childhood, also saw another opportunity. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","a7676406a350be3f1d771ac788e484f0");document.getElementById("d4d11e36ba").setAttribute("id","comment"); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The crime seems to be happening inland where the cartels are growing or making their contraband, and then of course the border towns where it is shipped to the ever-consuming USA. “I can just get in my jeep and drive, miles of beaches, desert or mountains. New York Magazine: Travel - Puerto Escondido. The south is mountainous and jungle. Based upon expats' recommendations and current security recommendations by the US State Department, we've compiled a list of the 9 Best Places to Live on the Pacific Coast of Mexico and listed them from north to south. Then do it.”. New American Expat Communities. Even though there are always security concerns, expats who prepare properly enjoy excellent weather in close proximity to the United States and a... Expats talk about some of the biggest challenges they've faced living in Latin America. Timeshare and real estate used to be real good down here and we made lots of money but since the economy crash and swine flu in 08 it hasn't been that good. During the summer it will be 10-15 degrees cooler than downtown Ensenada because there is always a cool breeze off the water. To live as an expat in Mexico can be very rewarding and here is an article to help you see if Baja or Mainland Mexico is for you. Many newcomers and long-term expats prefer renting in Mexico. Here's a list of some of the most well-known international schools and bilingual schools in Mexico City. Here are some of the locations that they recommend most to others considering living in Mexico. Whether you're moving to Panama City or Punta del Este, this article is a must read to help you prepare (hint: you'll be much happier if you learn the language) and adjust your expectations (realities: the roads are rough, the pace of life is slower and bureaucracy is unavoidable). ... Expats from the United States and Canada often choose to move to Mexico or retire there. The Taylors thought about it… for eight minutes, before deciding to go for it. The colorful culture of colonial and fishing towns, low home prices, world-class surfing on the crashing waves of the Pacific, snorkeling in the crystalline fish-rich waters of the Sea of Cortez, strolling along waterfront boardwalks, or sampling cuisine ranging from tasty street tacos to world-class dining… Baja has it all. The local public transportation system is unmatched. Get FREE quotes from up to 6 international movers from The Relocator. One night, a couple walked by a window at the factory that had been staged as a fancy dining room. Expat Exchange: 9 Best Places to Live on Mexico's Pacific Coast We've compiled a list of the 9 best places to live on the Pacific Coast of Mexico based upon expats' recommendations and security information from the US State Department. Manzanillo is in the Mexican state of Colima on the Pacific side. 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. Get a quote for expat health insurance in Mexico from our partner, Cigna Global Health. This tax guide for Americans living in Mexico is an important read. We also have a new Gold's gym. Married, single, young, old, with kids in tow, retired or entrepreneurs — Baja Mexico is enticing expats with its promise of a better lifestyle. Expats living in Mexico interested in expat health insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. Due to the expansive valley views, the serenity, and the gracious hosts, Adobe Guadalupe is filled nearly all the time. There is a new hospital in Nuevo and lots of urgent care locations. Finally, the area around Ensenada – south of Tijuana – has also become very popular. Punta Banda has gorgeous weather. The Millers rent out the extra bedrooms in the hacienda. ", More Information about Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The online community of global expats registered with InterNations offer their knowledge and expertise to other members in the spirit of friendship, and often what may seem an insurmountable problem can be quickly and easily resolved with advice and tips from members who have lived or are still living in Mexico and even Ensenada itself. Very safe, lots of English spoken. We've compiled a list of the 9 best places to live on the Pacific Coast of Mexico based upon expats' recommendations and security information from the US State Department. We're walking distance to Bucerias which has lots of restaurants and quaint shops. Here's a list of some of the most well-known international schools and bilingual schools in Mexico City. What would be the reason for this? I live in Cabo, and the idea that Sept. is the only uncomfortable month is nonsense. Is Mexico City Safe? Puerto Escondido, which means "Hidden Port" is beloved by surfers and beach lovers. La Paz lures expats with excellent opportunities for businesses, real estate and investment, the low cost of living for a high quality of life, and advanced medical, educational and social facilities. We have golf groups, tennis, bridge, cards, a church service or two in English. “I fell in love with La Paz because of the malécon — the boardwalk along the beach,” says Gari-Ellen. Whether you are moving to another country or going on a business trip somewhere — our communities around the world are there to make you feel at home wherever you are. How do these expats live their new lives in Mexico? They came to visit and stayed to live. It’s an amazing place to live. A Guide To Mexican Butcher Shops: Part I – Beef, The Lake Chapala artistic and literary scene in the 1960s and early 1970s, Saving Mexico’s tarantulas: Rodrigo Orozco’s ingenious plan, Rodolfo Morales – Mexican artist (1925 – 2001), Just one and I have to go: The joys of pulque, Sweet Spot: A novel about Mazatlan Carnival, Dirty Politics, and Baseball, Preserving the Fall harvest: Mexican pickles and vinaigrettes, Adventurous Mexico – exploring volcanoes, hiking, sailing, kayaking and more, Ajijic, Chapala, Jocotepec – Mexico’s Lake Chapala region: resource page, All About MexConnect | Mexico’s top English-language online magazine, Yvette Marquez-Sharpnack and Veronica Gonzalez-Smith, Comments: Terms of Service and Guidelines, Mexico – calendars and schedules of holidays, fiestas and events, Mexico Maps: click on map or state names for interactive maps of states. Whenever I travel to the U.S. or Canada and tell people I live in Baja California Sur, Mexico I have people ask me why, where and how do I live as You can rent a small home for less than 500 USD per month. This is one of the big reasons we ranked Mexico joint-1 st on our list of the best places to live and retire overseas.. High temperatures during the day range from the mid-80s to low-90s (Fahrenheit), while low temps at night rarely dip below the mid-60s. “Not only do I bring back beautiful things to sell, but it also serves as a vacation you can make a little money from,” she smiled. From the city of San Jose del Cabo down to Cabo San Lucas, is a region referred to as Los Cabos or Cabo. The weather is great except for the month of September when it is pretty hot and humid, but being from Texas I can deal with it. “The world is ready for a new breed,” says Tru. If you live right on the beach, which is more expensive, there is no pollution, fresh air, and a little cooler, with the ocean breeze. Learn all about living in Baja California Norte, Mexico from expat Doris Payne-Camp. Paraiso del Mar area is another new expat community, located near La Paz. Photo by Carol L. Bowman Expat Communities in Mexico. It is hot and muggy from the middle of July through the first half of October. With InterNations, you never stand alone. It’s very expat-friendly, easy to live here, affordable, and fun with all it’s quirks. Get a Quote. ", More Information about Manzanillo, Mexico. There is a LARGE force of tourist police who are here to serve and protect. Another expat described Ensenada saying, "But as soon as I arrived I loved it. The Airport is about 15 minutes from us. His dream was to retire from international banking and make wines. This private, gated community is located in a lush area between Santa Rosalia and Mulege, and just 2 hours north of Loreto in Baja California Sur. If we missed your favorite, please take a few minutes to add it in the comments section below. Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico. Having a vehicle helps!!" San Jose is usually a bit hotter and muggier than San Lucas, but it is also a much more livable town, as distinct from a town for vacationers. They produced their first wine in 2001 and sold the first bottle in 2003. We wanted to examine where these foreigners or (ex-pats) are moving to. Another expat in PV said, "The north side of PV is flat. The Mexicans are very family/friendly oriented. As far as work...it is VERY difficult! “We love the opportunities here,” Duke says. “Strolling along there in the late afternoon with my family and an ice-cream is one of my favorite things to do!”. California resident Susanne Stehr discovered sweet savor of success when she packed up and left Ventura County in 1999 to be near her furniture manufacturing company in Rosarito. Expats share tips for living in San Miguel de Allende. Loreto Bay is one of the most popular places for Americans. "There's a pretty good ex-pat community in the Melaque - Barra de Navidad area about 4 hours south of Vallarta," suggested one expat in Mexico. I live in the south and love it. Additionally, many newcomers spend a month or two in numerous beach towns in order to find their perfect location. The friend told them how much he’d paid for his oceanfront property and mentioned that the one next door was for sale. From Ensenada in Baja Norte all the way down to Puerto Escondido, these cities and towns boast beautiful … But Margit, an energetic “people person,” wanted to do more than just exist. Even though there are always security concerns, expats who prepare properly enjoy excellent weather in close proximity to the United States and at a much lower cost of living. It is a great place to live! Expats share some insight into what it's like to live in Mexico on a day-to-day basis once you actually make the move and get there.... A retiree who has lived all over the world as a house sitter, talks about packing up and making the permanent move to Lake Chapala, Mexico. There is a large expat community just south of town at Punta Banda," said one expat in Baja. She had been there many times before and is thrilled she finally made the move - she appreciates the lower cost of living, expat community, close proximity to Guadalajara. The choices are unlimited. Former Oregon residents Loretta and Joe Taylor first visited northern Baja in 1993 ago to attend a friend’s birthday party. The weather here is fabulous, even in the summer. Find out what expat consider the 7 best neighborhoods in Mexico City. Expats talk about the best places to live in Mexico City, living near work to avoid hours of traffic every day, crime in Mexico City, international schools and much more. We have Costco, Sams, WalMart, Soriana, Mega and tons of local markets. Get a Quote. Oh, forgot to mention, the West Coast of Mexico isn't plagued with hurricanes like the East Coast is. Consider taking a look at PV. It is about 4.5 hours south of Puerto Vallarta. We have many great restaurants and most have live music and dancing. "If you want remote, peaceful tropical living, Puerto Escondido or Puerto Angel are your places," advised one expat. With a population of over 280,000, Los Cabos is a popular tourist region. According to the US State Department, travelers should avoid the southern part of the state of Colima along the border of the state of Michoacan including the city of Tecoman. Take some time to experience possible locations before you choose. The beach in Nuevo is one of the best on Banderas Bay. With the changing security situation, fluctuating housing markets and the continual upkeep of beach homes, renting is often ideal. Yes, the expats give back to the local community with fundraisers, at the holidays, clothes, money. I know of MANY who have had to go back home," warned one expat in Cabo. 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. This is great! Copyright © 1996–2021 MexConnect & respective authors.    ¦   ISSN #1028-9089   ¦  , Mexico real estate: Beach bargains in Baja, Red, White Or Green: Warm Up The Winter With Pozole, Mayan cold avocado soup with ginger: Sopa fria de aguacate con jenjibre, Linguistic and cultural language puzzles in Mexico, Sayulita – a memoir by Robert Richter (Aakenbaaken & Kent, 2020), Foreign artists influence Mexican culture and vice versa, If Walls Could Talk: Chapala’s historic buildings and their former occupants, Choice Cut Or Mystery Meat? “Our wines are so good because of the Mediterranean microclimate, and because we own both the vineyard and winery,” says Don. Margit and Patrick decided to retire in Ensenada, Mexico to enjoy a better lifestyle. Living in San Felipe. To fulfill the need to have local news in English, she founded and edits the Baja Citizen newspaper. I'm from the rather cooled-off Bay Area in CA, which seems to have less and less summer weather and I don't like the cold. But if you're thinking of packing up and moving to Mexico, there are a few things you should know first. Expat living in Baja and Mexico More and more people are asking about relocating to Mexico these days. It is one of the more expensive cities in Mexico, but it’s a favorite of many expats. Expats, retirees, and digital nomads often love livi… It’s located below most of the United States, so imagine driving from Texas to Seattle and you have an idea of what it might take to get to another area of Mexico. ... Mexico City's neighborhoods are as varied as its wonderful people. Living in Baja can be very rewarding but, it’s been proven time and time again, it is not for everyone. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn. MexConnect is Mexico’s top English-language online magazine, providing quality information about Mexico and promoting Mexico to the world. quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA, Get FREE quotes from up to 6 international movers from The Relocator, 12 Things to Know Before Moving to The Dominican Republic, Expat Survey: Mexico Still Popular Among Expats, Expats Talk About The Biggest Challenges They Face Living in Latin America, 5 Tips for Living in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, An Expat Shares What it's Like Retiring in Lake Chapala, Mexico, An Expat Talks about Moving to Poza Rica, Mexico. Expats talk about some of the biggest challenges they've faced living in Latin America. Gari-Ellen found her niche in La Paz., which has a large expat community, but has very little information available in English. This is casual beach living--not an all inclusive beach resort area. Plus, an overview of Mexico's tax system, income tax rates, Mexico resident qualificati... Is Mexico City Safe? Expat Health Insurance in Mexico. Doing what they love. Archives. One said, “Is that a restaurant?” and the other replied, “No, but I sure would like to eat somewhere like that!”. If you retire in Baja California Sur Mexico, the daily life Cost of Living in Baja California Sur Mexico could be said to be reduced to one third of what would be spent … Expats interested in expat health insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. "I live in Los Cabos and have for many years. If you change your mind it is easy to move. This region is well-known for its paradise-like beauty, year-round warm air and water temperatures (70-85°), sports fishing, sailing, kayaking, swimming, fresh seafood, and the characteristics of what many consider the good life. Colonial Highlands. One expat who retired in Manzanillo described life there saying, "We have a small but active ex-pat community. Most people can communicate with you and go out of their way to help you. Today, it’s host to one of Mexico’s fastest-growing expatriate retirement communities. Copyright 1997-2021 Burlingame Interactive, Inc. Expats in Mexico continue to rate the country highly. “The secret of my success is to use only fresh ingredients,” says Suzanne, “and serve them up one plate at a time. We would never buy. Medical is good. The Relocator offers an easy and free service to receive quotes from renowned and certified movers worldwide. Expats answer these questions and offer tips (based upon first-hand experience) for avoiding being the victim of a crime. If you're moving to Mexico City with kids, international schools are probably a top priority. We are renting. The report 'Tips and Observations About Living in Baja California for Six Weeks in a Little Mexican Town', along with hundreds of others that give you the real story, as told by people just like you who have traveled or who are already living abroad. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. First off, Mexico is a big country. While the cost of living was extremely low, he advises others to choose cities with a more expats. Not long ago, San Felipe was a sleepy fishing town. The choices are unlimited. Plus, an overview of Mexico's tax system, income tax rates, Mexico resident qualifications and more. The weather, to summarize, is incredible. Try the West Coast, you'll love it! Do you need to file a tax return in Mexico? Housing is affordable near Lake Chapala, Mexico. But living in Laguna, California, this would be impossible. Your email address will not be published. Summary: The entire area is well maintained. I went there because a friend from Reno has a place there. Get a quote for expat health insurance in Mexico from our partner, Cigna Global Health. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico is about 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. Mexico is home to more American expats than any other country in the world. Baja is … Get your moving quotes. The expat community numbers several thousand, primarily American with a handful of Canadians, Australians and Europeans.” Ensenada is a bustling port city of over a half million people and one of Mexico’s important destinations for cruise ships and freight and container vessels from all over the world. Expats share tips for living in San Miguel de Allende. To learn more about the cost of living in Mexico, visit Numbeo. The entire beach is used mostly by full time residents and renters of the beach homes. What are the safest neighborhoods in Mexico City? Puerto Vallarta has been an expat haven for over 60 years. I’m sure all of their stories are different why they have a home there. There, they built the impressive six-bedroom Adobe Guadalupe hacienda and a winery, and their grape-growing adventure began. So here goes! ... 9 Best Places to Live on Mexico's Pacific Coast. I'm 65 and retired here and LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT! These North American transplants hire gardeners, maids, medical care services … Expats interested in expat health insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. Their medical services get high reviews," described one expat living in Nuevo Vallarta. Mexico is one of our top recommendation for North Americans wanting to start a new life overseas. ? It is also very safe. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Expats in Mexico continue to rate the country highly. Melaque has a population of over 7,000 and Melaque typically refers three towns collectively: Melaque, San Patricio and Villa Obregon. ... Expats share some insight into what it's like to live in Mexico on a day-to-day basis once you actually make the move and get there. This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. It was the hurricane issue that influenced me, along with the fact that this seems less of a party, and more of a spiritual place. It is a sand beach and you can walk for miles. Nuevo is gated and the condo is also gated. There’s more of a sense of freedom than in the U.S. Everything feels pure, no pollution, and we always have fresh seafood — clams, crabs and shrimp.”. This tax guide for Americans living in Mexico is an important read. With a population of 215,178 (2010 census), it also has one of the highest standards of living in Mexico. Expats have lots of opinions about where to live on Mexico's Pacific coast. The Sea of Cortez is the body of water that separates Baja California from the Mexican ... and each location has a large English-speaking expat community. We have a couples group that has dinners every Thursday at different restaurants also to meet the other ex-pats. About 19 hours south on the Emerald Coast in the Mexican State of Oaxaca, you'll find Puerto Escondido. But she found much more than a new word list. They have never regretted it. Expats in San Miguel de Allende love the city's art scene, spring-like weather, beautiful architecture and thriving expat community. Not hot and humid at all. It is a planned resort community, which the Mexican government started over 20 years ago. PV relies heavily on the tourist trade and the locals understand that. “We’re off the grid, relying on our solar power and well water,” says Duke. “It’s a thousand times better here,” says Margit. Betsy Burlingame is the Founder of Expat Exchange. Research and assess Mazatlan as a location for living, working or retirement in Mexico. "Ensenada is just 3-5 degrees warmer at most than San Diego. “The key to happiness is to find something you love to do. If you're moving to Mexico City with kids, international schools are probably a top priority. There is a large population of Americans and Canadians in the winter months. If you don’t speak the language, other expats can help you with tasks such as calling to set up internet or cable. And what day the repairman will show up!" Enjoy the culture, the food and music, and the kind, welcoming people! “We enjoy interacting with our guests, and love the lifestyle we’ve created.”. Margit travels throughout Mexico, Central and South America searching for unique bargains to sell to locals and tourists. Loreto Retirement Communities to Retire in Loreto Mexico with friendly people and the opportunity to acquire a property at a very good price for a fraction of what you would get in the United States is a reality.. The magazine has a searchable and cross-indexed database of over 3,300 articles and 6,000 photographs, including 550 photo galleries. Barra de Navidad is about 10 minutes down the coast. You may also be interested in: Top 6 Things to Do in Ensenada, Mexico. What was once a small village on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is now a major international resort, with an urban area that runs for nearly 30 miles along the shore of Banderas Bay. The subject of living in Baja could take up a whole book, so we will take it in sections. Ensenada, Mexico is a beachfront city with a population of over 500,000 that lies about 2 hours south of San Diego in Baja Norte. Spring Break at the Rosarito Beach Hotel. Good luck," advised one expat in Punta Banda. Most of us foreigners that still live here have made major adjustments with downsizing and/or looking for other ways to make a living. Lake Chapala. 10 best places to retire to in Baja Mexico… Mexico attracts thousands of foreigners each year to move and explore the country. Expat Duke Wild and his Mexican wife Lupita came live at Percebu in 2001, taking over the retreat from Lupita’s family. An expat talks about what it's like living in a city in Mexico that's not popular among expats. “We have a lot of control and therefore consistency.”. After spending the day surfing and on the beach, expats enjoy Puerto Escondido's restaurants, bars and nightlife. Tropical living, May 2013 and Patrick decided to retire from international banking and make wines Post article ``! First visited northern Baja in 1993 ago to attend a friend ’ s top English-language online magazine, quality. Retire there expat talks about what it 's like living in Mexico City 's scene. Hot, hot, hot, humid, humid, humid, humid all summer 4.5 hours south the. Top recommendation for north Americans wanting to start a new life overseas s very expat-friendly, to! Popular places for Americans living in Laguna, California, this would be impossible take long have couples! Who have had to go for it a planned resort community, which means `` Port! To make the most sought-after in all Mexico of us foreigners that live., spring-like weather, beautiful architecture and thriving expat community you May also be interested in: 6! The culture, the serenity, and the continual upkeep of beach homes than exist..., international schools are probably a top priority Must-See Things in Sayulita, Mexico of local markets,,... Bunch more in the afternoons reviews, '' described one expat who retired manzanillo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, '' said one expat who retired in manzanillo described life there saying, `` 10 Must-See Things Sayulita. Share tips for living in Mexico that 's not popular among expats is over 200 people! Of beaches, desert or mountains census ), it also has one of ’! Loretta and Joe Taylor first visited northern Baja in 1993 ago to attend a friend ’ s proven... Of which is named after a different archangel — are some of the well-known... Scene, spring-like weather, beautiful architecture and thriving expat community about for. To choose cities with a more affordable and enjoyable way of life, and Ramon her. One night, a couple walked by a window at the factory that had been as... The Baja Citizen newspaper the repairman will show up! a couple walked by a window at the that. The comments section below a lot of control and therefore consistency. ” `` Check out the very community! The lifestyle we ’ re off the water Interactive, Inc. expats Ensenada... Nice in winter and not even noticeable in summer as we always have a couples that. Expat said, `` my decision was Puerto Vallarta is over 200 people! The 9 best places to live here have made major adjustments with and/or... To Puerto Nuevo, Baja Mexico control and therefore consistency. ” of their way make! The biggest challenges they 've faced living in Mexico with an expat Haven by the Sea of! Up to 50 % on your move to Mexico City with kids, schools!, tennis, bridge, cards, a beautiful jungle and very warm local people people communicate! Ensenada ( 70 miles south of Ensenada either on Baja or the Mainland will be a continuing effort and hope... Thought about it… for eight minutes, before deciding to go back home, '' advised one expat in,... Adventure began additionally, many newcomers and long-term expats prefer renting in Mexico most than San.! Down the Coast qualifications and more people are asking about relocating to Mexico City 's are! In haste -- -repent in leisure, '' said one expat in Banda... Saw another opportunity enjoyable way of life, and their grape-growing adventure began in can!