People who already live in Mexico can find out what are the best places to live in Mexico in 2022 here. Regards, Bette, Are there many single retirees lakeside ? Mexico is considered to have the second best climate in the world, after the United States. . If youre on a tight budget, its also relatively inexpensive. Serious crime is rare in the Lake Chapala area; and it's much safer to live here than many places north of the border. However, for those of us who can adapt to being here, it has a great deal to offer. And a lot safer than living in NYC was! The three victims are hospitalized in stable to serious condition. I know things have changed in these, but damn it, I miss Mexico. The purpose of this group is to help people make an informed decision on where to move in Mexico. Smdh. I've explored most of the country by car now and love it. Nobody has ever been convicted of this crime. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Beautiful board and care homes with 24-hour care can cost as little as $1200 per month. The disconnect of the expat community is appalling. There have never been any problems between Michaela and Ricardo at Lakeside, which is one of the loveliest expat communities I have ever lived in. Glad you are in a better place there. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The questions have now become: How will Mexico respond to this mayhem? He was over 65 years of age, retired, and living in the Chapala part of Lake Atitlan near the park. Despite the fact that mile-high altitudes provide relief from the heat and humidity of coastal towns, people with heart and respiratory problems may find it difficult. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the town center can range from $300-500 per month. Yes, as everyone stated, there are things that are not like the U.S. For us, that makes every day an adventure as we learn how to navigate our way. Not very friendly nor helpful They were going hard for two guys i think the rest got caught on the cross fire, if you watch the video you will see who the sicarios were going after. Lake Chapala is a relatively safe place to live, with crime rates comparable to those of other North American cities. Detergents and agriculture chemicals have contributed to the destruction of Lake Chapala by producing phosphorus and nitrogen, two of the fertilizers primary ingredients. Expats, Retirees and Digital Nomads talk about the pros and cons of living in Lake Chapala What are the pros and cons of living in Lake Chapala? In areas where the cartels are dominant, they are the government, providing schools, utilities, street maintenance, and ensuring the safety of the people. Its our health and safety we have to be concerned with. R. Canada. I love (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? One of them, showing a good sense of self-awareness commented, I guess Im not as flexible as I thought I was. Its certainly true that Mexico is not for everyone and while international living blogs paint it and other Latin countries as a retirement paradise for northern baby boomers, the difficulties of adapting to life in a foreign county, particularly for those who have not traveled extensively outside of their home country, are often underemphasized. But now I live with no garbage, no offending odors, no wandering animals, potholes, moderate crime, and a different kind of people. In this sense, prospective tourists have a built-in risk avoidance mechanism. It is possible for foreigners to swim in some locations. Enjoy and don't get shot Johnny C..the area is not for everyone that is for sure. I have high walls as that is what everyone has in the villages, no gated community for me. The shops are tight as are the restaurants. Jalisco: Lake Chapala water pollution a serious problem for residents, In addition, the State Prosecutors Office of Jalisco (FE) announced that on Monday, February 18, in a surprise review of the barracks of the Amphibious Squadron (located in the Cristiania Park of the municipal seat), elements in the possession of illegal substances, so, Chapala Installs New Security Guidance Council, There have been seven murders in the Chapala area over the past six months and no convictions. Buyer beware! All will be checked now! A total of 13 bodies have now been found in or around Lake Chapala in western Mexico, an official said. What are some ways to learn Spanish while also getting along with the Mexicans? And given we live outside San Diego, on acreage with a great house and views, that says something about the beauty of the Mexican culture, and the heart warming charm and sense of peace and fulfillment that is to be found there. It has been reported that violence in the PV area has recently resulted in the cancellation of 10-13,000 reservations for Spring break; a loss to the local economy of an estimated U.S. $20 million. So, how safe is Lake Chapala Mexico? The people are friendly and there is always something to do. Your email address will not be published. Mexico has a responsibility to protect the lake and the ecosystem that surrounds it. Crime increasing in the past 3 years. Luckily, most retirees north of the border would rather stay where they are and worry about whether theyll remain healthy enough to see their grandchildren graduate collegeor whether theyll have enough money saved to live out their years short of povertyor how long theyll be able to maintain that middle-class life style theyve become accustomed to. You like waiting months to see a doctor for a routine appointment. It solidified in my soul 35 years ago that I would retire in a foreign land. The sidewalks are uneven, crumbling on many corners where the local buses repeatedly miss the turn, and the cobblestones are rough, making every walk through the village feel like a journey through uncharted territory. Why dont the government take care of Lake Chapala? I know right now we are in our honeymoon stage, and I just hope it lasts forever, because I cant imagine learning our wonderful new home, We believe this is the best decision we have ever made for ourselves. Roughly 50,000 expats from the U.S. and Canada relocated to what was considered to be a peaceful paradise in Mexico. They need to hit the restart button on MX. Global Affairs Canada said on Saturday that it is aware of the death of a Canadian citizen in Mexico and is providing consular services to the family. People saying "buenas dias" and "buenos tarde" when passing on the street. Goodness knows that being an Expat there (Lake Chapala) brings with it risks that are not present elsewhere in Mexico. On Tuesday, an expat storeowner was the victim of an attempted carjacking - and injured. A relative of a Canadian couple who were killed at a popular Mexican retirement destination says the family is "in shock" over the loss. So many places to go so much variety. Sowhy here?The people are warmsmilingnot in a rush to make more, have more,get out of my way: attitude we have found in CanadaStates. Ninety years later, Mexico's municipality of Chapala has plunged into the midst of the Valentine's Month of Mayhem & Murder. We are here for medicaland we get it free in Canadabut hereturn over is not the main goal.Spending $40.00 to spend 30-45 minutes with a specialist is worth it. Traffic was named honorable mention in fourth place, and Stray Dogs was honorable mention in fifth place. There are sports and intellectual programs, Some people feel guilty or others try to make you feel guilty if you simply want to (We northerners could learn something about what it means to be discreet, which has a slightly different meaning in Spanish, roughly translating into not saying everything thats on your mind, and wrapping every discourse in courtesy regardless of how angry or justified you may think you are.). Yes, because of health reason my wife and I moved back to the States (Texas). Ive been in ajjic for 6 days now and Im not very impressed Mexican States American citizen arrested in Chapala, he is accused of committing a homicide July 5, 2021 4207 The Chapala Regional Prosecutor's Office is working on the clarification of the death of a male, whose body was located on June 11 in the Barrio de San Miguel in the municipality of Chapala. It is a great place to live because it has close proximity to perfect weather, low costs, and a great lifestyle. Now on to your next adventure. Get a quote from our partner, William Russell. The Jalisco travel warning remains at Level 2 exercise increased caution due to crime Some areas have increased risk. Francisco de los Santos, a member of the coca community of Mezcala and a kidney recipient, believes that such forums are necessary. There are many restaurants, but few that I would regard as excellent. I lived in Ajijic for eighteen months. Always feel safe but use common sense too. Most of those tourists come from the U.S. and Canada. On my way to Los Cabos very soon, first time. Then moved to Lake Chapala, Mexico maybe 3 years ago, roughly 2018. This is impunity at its worst. Algae, lilies, and weeds in the water contribute to the formation of high oxygen levels and the death of fish. Forget about the Traffic Light entering Mexico. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-98160901', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Mexico, but always remember that it is not my country and I am sometimes an unwelcome guest. A cobblestone is the cause of any number of accidents. Ajijic is a small town with many amenities that makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico. 011-52-(376) 76 52877 One thing that we are all subject to is the influence of social media. swim in the pool and read. Second, the traffic is just terrible, (too many Gringos) and even getting from just outside town to just the other side, turned what should have been a 7 minute drive to up to 40 minutes. It is safe to swim in the water, but you must go to designated beaches to swim or boat. 4. According to the United Nations, a water quality index of 0-44 is considered poor, while a water quality index of 95-100 is considered excellent. 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Take off your rose-colored glasses and find out what digital nomads living in Mexico have to say about their biggest challenges and greatest benefits. My tercera edad, or third life, has finally arrived, and I cant wait to share it with you all. You are exactly right on all accounts. But there will not be the degree of hatred and the culturally and legally approved prosecution of anyone who does not fall into the approved category. We went there in September and needed to leave after just a few days, as the environment was toxic enough to sicken me. It is simple to spend the entire day here, with so many things to do and see. There are many pros and cons of living in Lake Chapala. The Chula Vista North community has another home with spectacular lake views. Summary: Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Killing random innocent people to heat up the plaza. Gardeners, maids, medical care providers, and contractors are among the people who work for North Americans who transplants from other countries. You dont like making new friends from around the world, and are happy with a shrinking social group that is slowly moving away. I also always felt safe sending my daughter to school in Mexico and wasnt worried she would get shot. Because the events were reported, elements of the Municipal Public Security Police Station went to the site and captured the individual. Travel on Highway 80 between Cocula and La Huerta is not permitted for U.S. government personnel. For more information about Lakeside visit:Lake Chapala Towns. Create a new government, new institutions, bring in new laws. For the Chapala area, selling the dream is the mantra that has attracted U.S. and Canadian tourists for decades. Given the steady stream of drug cartel violence presented on TV, reinforced by US State Department advisories and the increasingly hysterical concerns expressed by friends and family, we started to lose confidence in our own research and decision to leave for Lake Chapala, Mexico. A must do if youre thinking about making the move south of the border. Furthermore, home-security innovation ensures that the beautiful, peaceful, serene Lake Chapala is even more accessible and worthwhile. You like shoveling snow, raking leaves, or cutting the grass. Interested in finding out more about our Online Program? You may fit that category here snowbirding and checking out the Lake Chapala area. Carol has taught English to Mexican adults for ten years as part of a volunteer program run by expatriates. My brother far prefers China and Asian countries over Latin America an I feel more comfortable south of the border. Another disadvantage is that it is in a very poor location near major shopping malls. Sometimes, this is endearing, other times you really wonder. Live by the sword and die by the sword. When you live in Chapala, Mexico, you can expect spring-like temperatures all year. Chapalas Mexican feel is offset by a lack of organized expat activities. Chapala Installs New Security Guidance Council (Previous councils never did anything other than the installation ceremony since 2000). Local police are small departments and are not paid well. Although the Lake Chapala communities are considered quite safe, the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security (OSAC) has reported multiple homicides, assaults, robberies and car thefts in Guadalajara, just 45 minutes to the north. There is an unofficial tax called the Gringo Tax. Another man was murdered in Chapala in November. There was one quite awhile ago but that was caused by a labour dispute. Its important to keep in mind that tourists travel to experience pleasure. Take off your rose-colored glasses and read what digital nomads living in Mexico have to say about their biggest challenges and greatest benefits. Thanks. It is illegal, but they get away with it anyway. Most people here are scrupulously honest (like my handyman who can hardly bring himself to charge me for his work) but there are unsavory people in every country and non-Spanish speakers make an easy target. Re safety and crime, that depends on the area and on the behavior of the person. height: 100%; Michael Sapp, a man who lived in Panajachel, Guatemala on Lake Atitlan for maybe 5 years. Chapala Crime. William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. This lake, Spanish Lago de Chapala, is located in the west-central part of Mexico. However, there are many back in the states who would never think of taking even the first step. Local authorities confirmed the incident in a press release today. Its a pleasure to visit the Mexican people, who are friendly and welcoming, and the countrys culture is still alive and thriving. 41.67. At Lakeside, there is petty crime but by being observant and using common sense, it seems pretty safe! Her travel writing has earned her numerous awards, most notably from Lake Chapala English magazine, El Ojo del Lago. 100% Safe Payment. I think people show go for a month and try it out..or rent first and soak it all in. Love to visit all of (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? All of the other issues, and they are growing in numbers, make it an incredibly risky journey to be there at all. Good and bad everywhere! Those who live here for years without learning Spanish are missing a major component of the benefit to be gained by living here, sort of like watching TV in black and white instead of in color. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC The Lake Chapala Expat Forum is a great place to meet other expats and learn about life in Mexico. Our new Move To Mexico Online Program along with live, one-on-one support at Lakeside is the best approach to ensure safety of you and our staff, while providing you with the experience and expertise of the Focus program. There is shallow water near the shore of Lake Chapala, but it is not toxic. We met some of the nicest people, a few of whom have already moved down to Ajijic and some who plan to upon retiring. Due to the lakes decline, housing costs have risen, and people are unable to enjoy its natural resources as much as they used to. Guadalajara, Mexicos second largest city, is one of the worlds most beautiful cities. So, to make them feel better, Ive compiled a list of the top 20 reasons NOT to retire to Lake Chapala (in no particular order): So dont believe all those books about the wonderful life here, or the promotional websites all the realtors produce to entice you to buy a house. A 78-year-old Canadian expatriate was shot and killed in the Jalisco municipality of Chapala last Friday. Its rare to find crime at Lakeside. This article is well balanced, and accurate based on our experience. The Valentines Day Massacre occurred in Chicago, Illinois on February 14, 2019. Did we learn to speak. The lake is home to a number of species of fish, including bass, catfish, and tilapia. I believe after living 16 years in Mexico, that economic motives are not sufficient to sustain a lasting reason to live south of the border. Mexicans have a lot of violence against each other, particularly between drug gangs and police, but there is little to no violence against Americans in the Lake Chapala area. Chapala Lake, Mezcala Island, and Ajijic Private Tour with a Local Expert (From $165.00) Half-Day Guided Tour of Lake Chapala from Guadalajara (From $65.00) Tour to Lake Chapala, MAGIC TOWN of Ajijic from Guadalajara (From $40.67) Private Tour One Day Adventure in Chapala and Ajijic Pueblo Mgico (From $81.34) See all Lake Chapala experiences . You are right on. No one's in a hurry, except macho jovenes in their cars, and then it's only to the next tope. 16.67. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Get a quote from our partner, William Russell, Healthcare & Health Insurance in Lake Chapala, 10 Tips for Living in Lake Chapala, Mexico, 8 Things to Know Before You Move to Mexico, Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Mexico, Visit our Lake Chapala Index for a Full List. It was reported by several Mexican media outlets that two of the deceased were minors. Foreigners are there for the picking and my Vietnamese wife wont let me buy anything except in the larger supermarkets. When you walk, you can complete the walk at any time. Its all in what you choose to focus on, isnt it? It is still a problem, in addition to theft. Mexicans themselves are fastidiously clean and except among the very poor, adults and children are generally dressed with great care because dress is considered a reflection of ones status in society. View of a place on the Lerma River where bodies were found in Jamay, Jalisco State. Whether you are looking for a retirement home, a vacation home, or a place to raise a family, you should be able to find something that meets your needs in Lake Chapala Mexico. People told me in Guadalajara that people in the ajjijic area are cold, arrogant and are aholes expats can choose to live full-time or part-time in this country, with an estimated 15,000 choosing either option. 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