Focus On Mexico

Your Guide to Moving and Retiring to Mexico's Lake Chapala

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Giving Back Lakeside

Giving Back Lakeside

Congratulations - the decision is made and you are heading south of the border!  When you arrive Lakeside it's a good idea to take several months to acclimate and manage all the business involved with starting a new life in a new country, but once you're feeling settled you may want to find a way to give back to the community that is hosting us. From the first expats who came to the area, Lakeside has a long history of volunteerism and today there are many established charities that could use your help and, if there is something you would like to do that's not currently available,  you may … [Read more...]

Focus on Day of the Dead

Focus on Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead on November 1-2 is one of the most important holidays in Mexico.  It's a wonderful opportunity to see life and death through the eyes of the Mexican culture as you visit the altars set up all around Lakeside to honor ancestors who have passed and their return to visit their living loved ones on this holiday. If you are interested in a possible move to Lakeside, our October 27-Nov. 1 fast track learning seminar is the perfect opportunity to explore what Lakeside has to offer and the Day of the Dead celebrations.   Day of the Dead Lakeside In Ajijic, the altars are … [Read more...]

We All Come Here To Die!

We All Come Here To Die!

or...People come to Lakeside to die and forget because they are so busy living! Both sayings are true as most expats who move Lakeside enjoy full lives and make significant contributions to the community.  But the day comes for all of us when it's time to move on to the next stage of our journey.  One of the best things about Mexico is the healthy attitude towards death and dying.  People mourn for their loved ones like everywhere in the world, but there is a more general acceptance of death as part of the process. How to Prepare for Death As An Expat in Mexico Many expats moving to … [Read more...]

Are You Ready to Party?!

Are You Ready to Party?!

This weekend was the Globo festival, an annual Ajijic tradition since 1947.  This event unofficially kicks off the next seven months of fiestas and the run-up to 'high season', which is basically November 1-April 1.  Here are some cultural tips from local residents, long-term expats, and my own 20+ years of life in Latin America to help you get the most out of your Lakeside visit or move. DO "Enjoy the community and the traditions.  Get to know the background and history of the community, the Lake Chapala Society, the children's art program, and the art galleries, which are an echo of the … [Read more...]

Is It Too Late to Move to Ajijic?

Is It Too Late to Move to Ajijic?

There is a lot of current social media buzz about the flood of foreigners moving to Ajijic, rising prices, etc.   A recent video by Tangerine Travels points out some of the drawbacks of Ajijic and generated a flood of comments.  Additionally, some people say the town is ‘full’ and the expats are ruining the character of the town.  So let’s look more in depth at the ‘ugly’ side of Ajijic: Rising Real Estate/Rental Prices It is true that prices for both home purchase and rental are rising.  The Tangerine video stated that there is nothing available for purchase in Ajijic for less than $250,000 … [Read more...]