Ive only been here for 6 days and yes, I agree with what the Guadalajara people told me Help others in Mexico by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Mexico. Our time in Mexico was the best time in our lives. Its all in what you choose to focus on, isnt it? Data released this week, Middle Eastern archaeology, calligraphy at MUSA, Celebrating the New Year in style in the city of roses, Escondido: Iconic restaurateur returns with hidden gem, Seek out this colorful courtyard for a delightful breakfast, Tony Burton pens intriguing history on expatriate influence in Ajijic, Whale watching is better with marine biologists, Whitewater rafting raises awareness about Mexicos magnificent rivers, Murder of Chapala expat adds to spike in crime. I liked what you had to say. Deep wells were drilled many decades ago to provide water for homes. What is the currentbstate of thing in Chapala: same, better, worse? There are no gates in the Chapalas, which is a distinct feature of other areas. As a result, the lakes ecosystem has been hampered. Michael Sapp, a man who lived in Panajachel, Guatemala on Lake Atitlan for maybe 5 years. There is an unofficial tax called the Gringo Tax. Live by the sword and die by the sword. It is close to both Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende, two excellent tourist destinations. Lake Chapala is an excellent place to retire. It is the lifeblood of the Chapala and Ajijic area. Youll be getting enough from Social Security and your retirement plans to live in the lap of luxury for the rest of your life. The fact that Mexico rarely entertains malpractice law suits means that doctors can treat patients with personal care without worrying about them being sued. The town has a population of about 30,000 people. The cost of liveing there is also higher. Its a good idea to look into staying in a chain hotel or a lifestyle similar to the one in the United States if you want to stay somewhere simple and cost-effective. You like paying $60-$100 an hour for house cleaners and gardeners. Access Lake Chapala offers a glimpse into the life and retirement opportunities near Mexicos largest lake as you share your daily life stories and learn about the opportunities offered by the lake. Currently, U.S. Government employees have no restrictions traveling in the greater Guadalajara area, including Ajijic and Chapala. I have also traveled through Cambodia and Laos and experienced the same thing. Not a day passes that I dont reflect back to our many expat and Mexican friends. swim in the pool and read. A relative of a Canadian couple who were killed at a popular Mexican retirement destination says the family is "in shock" over the loss. All of the other issues, and they are growing in numbers, make it an incredibly risky journey to be there at all. How does your wife feel about Asian versus Latin American countries as a whole? Do know they occupy a lot of area here especially gated communities LOL. Guadalajara, Mexicos second largest city, is one of the worlds most beautiful cities. Forget burned out gas stations, warring drug lords, and American tourists being targeted for crime. This article is well balanced, and accurate based on our experience. 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. I have been waiting for an artical like your for a while and finally someone has made the simple effort to tell it like it is. Required fields are marked *. (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.). You should also keep the sidewalk in front of your house clean. Mexico is still plagued with the issue of stray dogs. Sometimes, this is endearing, other times you really wonder. Stray dogs abound in both Mexico and Rico, and people of both countries adore them. There is a cash society here. are there any chat groups or forums where we can communicate with people already there to ask questions? One thing that we are all subject to is the influence of social media. I have now lived in Vietnam for three years and I cant wait to get home. In Mexico, the average cost of living is $600 $2,000.Monthly expenses include rent, Internet, electricity, and water, as well as transportation. At the end of October they were encouraging us to join them. Two women walking in the daytime were assaulted recently in this very upscale neighborhood of La floresta. Serious crime is rare in the Lake Chapala area; and it's much safer to live here than many places north of the border. Mexico is considered to have the second best climate in the world, after the United States. Chapala authorities registered 76 new criminal cases last month at rate of 13.72 crimes for every 10,000 inhabitants, while Jocotepec logged 64 cases, equivalent to 12.81 incidents for the same number of people. The basic information you need to know about moving to Mexico, such as the best places to live, the cost of living, health care, and insurance, is provided in our Mexico Living Guide. The lake is home to a number of species of fish, including bass, catfish, and tilapia. Lake Chapala has a unique climate, beautiful lakeside homes, a low cost of living, and a thriving expat community. We lived in Ajijic for 7 years ..owned a home thereand loved almost every minute of it. A 78-year-old Canadian expatriate was shot and killed in the Jalisco municipality of Chapala last Friday. In addition, the home invasions and petty crime are on the rise. You dont like making new friends from around the world, and are happy with a shrinking social group that is slowly moving away. No parking, and very challenging parking on uneven narrow streets, was also frustrating. We are on our fifth and final trip to Ajijic because we are in the process of become permanent residents of Mexico. We expats here today like it that way . Lawless As reported in both the local English and Spanish press, 30% of all residents of the state of Jalisco were victims of crime in 2016, but 93.2% of crimes went unreported, with the crimes reported ranging from extortion to assault. The week before, four people were shot in Chapala. You like shoveling snow, raking leaves, or cutting the grass. Perhaps you would check out the images at garbage in the streets saigon ( https://duckduckgo.com/?q=garbage+in+streets+saigon&t=ffab&iar=images&iax=images&ia=images) . name is at the very beginning of the article dawg. Perhaps you should try Puerto (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Like it better in Ajijic. position: absolute; Over the weekend, an armed commando arrived at a restaurant next to Lake Chapala and opened fire on a group of diners. Because the events were reported, elements of the Municipal Public Security Police Station went to the site and captured the individual. If you want to live in a warm climate, low-cost housing, and plenty of amenities, this is the place for you. You are right on. All Rights Reserved. A Mexican friend recently told me, When you come to Mexico you put yourself in the hands of God. So why you say, would anyone in their right mind choose to live here? The challenge for the tourism and real estate industry in the Chapala and Ajijic area is not how to nuance the nightmare. It is to confront the reality with a new, tangible strategy to manage the mayhem. People inside the restaurant called the emergency line to notify authorities of the attack. Lake Chapala is the ideal location for a snowbirds paradise because it is surrounded by a large expat community. New York. Attracted by one of the best climates in the world, a low cost of living and breathtaking views, expats from the U.S., Canada, Europe and other places around the world have flocked over the years to Lake Chapala. Mexico is a wonderful country with a lot of great places to live, but in places the water is badly. It is located in the state of Jalisco, about 60 kilometers south of Guadalajara. Fax: 011-52-(376) 76 53528, Hours The adolescent attitude of the people who are well beyond adolescence in years. People who already live in Mexico can find out what are the best places to live in Mexico in 2022 here. Smdh. Five of them were killed and two more were wounded. We spent our honeymoon 22 years ago at Lake Chapala, made short trips since, and attended FOM session in July 2017. Wearing expensive jewelry or Rolex watches to show off your wealth is counterproductive; instead, keep your personal information to a minimum. You have to like hiking, nature and slow relaxing tranquil life to be here. Living a 3rd childhood in the clubs at night. If youre looking for a place to escape the cold, you might want to think about visiting Chapala. When in Panajachel, he dated a woman named Ruth, and tried for 2-3 years to marry her . An email from an Ajijic resident February 5, 2020: I live in Ajijic the next town over from Chapala where most of the expats live and I was mugged recently after going to an ATM right on a residential street. Data released this week on criminal complaints lodged during July put Chapala and Jocotepec near the top of the list for ten municipalities located outside the Guadalajara metro area, surpassed only by Puerto Vallarta. Of course. Read my NEW Book January 2019 to become aware of ALL the hazards that inhabit the Lake Chapala area: The 2nd Edition of this book is currently being written (February 2020). Agreed. Huertas family is very known in joco and surroundings to bad q ya se estan acavando https://www.yahoo.com/news/3-siblings-killed-mexican-cartel-180508607.html, Dude is pouring up a drink to a job well done, Damn lake chapala usual peaceful, lots of American retirees, Theres been a ton of unreported crime and murders going on now since 2016 in Chapala, Ajijic and Joco, Lake Chapala american retirees will be leaving. .video-container iframe { Investigators believe that the attack could be due to a "settling of scores" (ajuste de cuentas) between organized crime groups in the area, particularly the criminal cells based in Jocotepec and Chapala municipalities. Also there are only beautiful babies here! Take off your rose-colored glasses and read what digital nomads living in Mexico have to say about their biggest challenges and greatest benefits. However, for those of us who can adapt to being here, it has a great deal to offer. I tried picking up all the trash in the streets in front of my house, but in a day it was back to normal. Over the weekend, an armed commando arrived at a restaurant next to Lake Chapala and opened fire on a group of diners. This is less expensive than living in Canada or the United States, where you would spend up to a third of your income. The three victims are hospitalized in stable to serious condition. Requests for permission to reproduce or disseminate any part of any material on this site should be emailed to: Bill Dahl: dahlbill (at) gmail (dot) com. You like arguing about politics all of the time. 4. There are no words capable of expressing the heartfelt sorrow for those who have become fatalities and victims of the criminal chaos that has now descended upon Chapala. There are many different types of homes and land available, as well as a wide range of prices. As mentioned above, it's even more rare for serious crime to involve the Expat community. Foreigners are there for the picking and my Vietnamese wife wont let me buy anything except in the larger supermarkets. Crime rates in Chapala, Mexico. Is the dirt, garbage..noise (especially with eventos on Saturday nights) the endless government requirements to be legal..the water and some food., all concerns YES.. but it was never viewed as something that would make us leave. Dirty run down buildings, dirty lake, street surfaces can barley walk on them Chapala is a town in Jalisco, Mexico, and is located on the shores of Lake Chapala, the largest freshwater lake in Mexico. explained one expat living in Lake Chapala. This is a place where magical things happen: living in the Lake Chapala Area. Completely overrun by expats paying exorbitant rents, strutting their finery in the plaza at lunch time. This cover-up has probably been going on forever. We saw some of the bad sides of Mexico, but we were fortunate enough to experience the people and culture. After 9 p.m., there are few restaurants and activities to be found. Then moved to Lake Chapala, Mexico maybe 3 years ago, roughly 2018. No children ripped from their parents and then lost in spite of the numbers on their arms! I would never live in a gated community in the US. However, there are many back in the states who would never think of taking even the first step. 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. Youd rather pay your dentist $150 for a teeth cleaning and check-up rather than $20. The system would display red and green flags along the villages shoreline to alert residents to the quality of the water. I hear all you are saying Johnny C, but some folks like that. When the day finally arrived and we moved into our long-term rental (which we absolutely love), it was like a dream come true. Seven men were shot to death as part of a gangland war. That said, I cannot wait for next month when I will return for a few months and eventually my husband and I hope to be able to be there for at least half a year, every year. "Can't really think of any past the language barrier when you can't talk to a car mechanic or shop person. The unbelievably loud firecrackers and rockets set off anywhere for the slightest pretense of a fiesta, and boomboxes. You like cloudy days, rainy or snowy winters, hurricanes in the autumn, or tornadoes in the spring. Mexico. said another expat in Lake Chapala. You hate looking at beautiful flowers blooming all year long. 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. For a variety of reasons more and more Americans and Canadians are contemplating moving abroad for retirement. My only guess is that they are desperate to escape the cold climates they come from up North. Although the city is still dangerous, keep an eye out for trouble. Excerpt Below: The violence in Chapala has not stopped, because from Saturday, February 16 to 22 (closing of the print edition of Semanario Laguna) new cases have been registered in the municipal capital. Adapted from his blog:retirednsingleblog.wordpress.com. You feel safe in places like New York, Baltimore, Detroit, St. Louisor, for that matter, church or the movie theater. 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. Although the Lake Chapala communities are considered quite safe, the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Diplomatic Security (OSAC) has reported multiple homicides, assaults, robberies and car thefts in Guadalajara, just 45 minutes to the north. It is an appealing place to live because of its proximity to perfect weather, low costs, and a relatively peaceful lifestyle. But you can also find rentals as low as $500/mo or $2,000/month too. My husband and I have no regretsonly wish we could be still be there. Mexico has a responsibility to protect the lake and the ecosystem that surrounds it. With Babbel, you can learn Spanish and deepen your understanding of Mexico. Find out more about Focus here. One of the pros is that the climate is very mild and it rarely gets above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. 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. Despite the fact that this isnt for everyone, there are a large number of people who fall in love with this place at first sight. No razor wire either nor paranoia! Glad you liked it. Hotels in Guadalajara are similar to private hospitals. I have to admit I do not live in Ajijic proper nor Chapala and prefer it that way and likely would not be a vacation place for me! Moderate. I certainly agree one must take precautions wherever we are and perhaps thats why I have never experienced crime in Mexico. Outrageous costs considering the quality you get on eg food, groceries, drinks and biggest joke of all rent or home purchase is outrageous Now on to your next adventure. This is impunity at its worst. 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. It is boring..I admit lol, I do not hike. Despite its shallow waters and silty surface, it will not endanger you. You would be able to get a feel and also find and move on rentals that you might find on Facebook groups, rental agencies, word of mouth and bulletin boards. 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. Expats living in the lakeside area are quite safe. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-98179744', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Mexico. Hi all, Ive been planning on going to lake side in 2019 and doing lots of studying on the area, Im a single female 55 planning on retiring hopefully at 62 to lakeside and want to know if its safe for single women, ps; I do speak fluent Spanish. Worldwide Delivery. Folks, this is a foreign country, and a different culture. Edward Kular, 84, and Nina Discombe, 72, were found dead. It seems that most retirees there are married.. Get every new post on this blog delivered to your Inbox. So is it true that Mexico consists of all of the adjectives listed above by the disappointed expats? I still enjoy parts of Baja also. Utilities, including water, electricity, and internet, can cost an additional $100-200 per month. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-98182861', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Antonio Texas but in Lake Chapala area so in between Chapala and Ajijic. Recently some Lakeside expats who decided to return to their home country shared their grievances about the Lake Chapala area with us. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. And to top it off, the municipality has run out of resources for the strengthening of public security, as it was announced in the Official Gazette of the Federation, on February 15, that Chapala, like five other municipalities in the State of Jalisco, has remained outside the financial support of FORTASEG. However, Municipal services are not that great, but when you factor in the average tax rate on a home, which is between $100 and $300 USD per year, you can expect a fair amount. All will be checked now! It is a popular retirement community near the lake because of its year-round warm weather and low cost of living. 21 years no problems, one petty crime. There was one quite awhile ago but that was caused by a labour dispute. Impunity refers to the failure or inability to penalize criminals. According to an, Tourism is BIG business. Clearly, there are facts to back up my feeling. There are a number of boat rental companies in the area. I started this blog as a result of a local discussion board thread, and I was curious to hear what local expats had to say about living in Lakeside. There are so many reasons to move to Lake Chapala and Mexico, here's a top 10 list for you. Your real estate taxes have been going down every year and government services have been getting better. Nobody has ever been convicted of this crime. Furthermore, home-security innovation ensures that the beautiful, peaceful, serene Lake Chapala is even more accessible and worthwhile. Sitting at gringo cafes drinking lattes while ragged Mexican kids thrust hands out for pesos, ignoring veiled stares from the locals, ignoring the stench from the lake, saying about the multiple daily murders it was Mexicans, not expats. Nearby Ajijic was surreal. @6:54 Exactly, CJNG turned the area into a fucked up zone. See: Violence persists in Chapala despite arrests and changes of police officers. The lake is home to a number of species of fish, including bass, catfish, and tilapia. And while busses are much better than here in the US, I found I really needed a car. Used to ride horses. Earlier in the month, a 78 year old Canadian expat was shot to death walking home in Ajijic, and four men were arrested in Chapala for aggravated robbery. Taking part in local events throughout the day for free is an excellent way to enjoy the community. 3. Enjoy and don't get shot Johnny C..the area is not for everyone that is for sure. Its sort of amusing and sort of not amusing to hear expats brag about what a great deal they got on some purchase, blissfully unaware that they paid way more than the usual price. Mindful of crime in many parts of Mexico (the State Department advises Americans not to travel to six of Mexico's 32 states and exercise increased caution in 17), IL recommends the safe spots of . :). The streets are shared with dogs, horses and trash piled up for the eventual trash pick-up. Lake Chapala Mexico real estate offers a wide variety of options for those looking for a place to live. Warm waters contribute to the climate of Lake Chapala, which maintains a moderate temperature range all year. Shot in the head!!! Why dont the government take care of Lake Chapala? 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. You are sure right about Mexico overall. No element of this site may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from Bill Dahl. Many countries are in the process of building new assisted living facilities in order to meet the needs of the elderly expat population. The lake here is a shame.. largest lake in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The most recent outbreak occurred in 2007, when more than 100 people died. There are several restaurants in the area, both American and Canadian, as well as several golf courses nearby. I've explored most of the country by car now and love it. . Lakeside is an excellent place to live if youre looking for a low-cost place to live. Read More. A must do if youre thinking about making the move south of the border. The crime occurred at a downtown address on Calle Jurez. Race riots? This home would make any snowbird happy, and it would also be an ideal fit for a full-time resident. ButbutNP was totally exterminated by CJNG Sickening. For less than four hundred dollars per year, you can get fully insured Mexican Health Insurance. position: relative; If you are planning to visit the area, it is important to take precautions to avoid getting sick. My brother far prefers China and Asian countries over Latin America an I feel more comfortable south of the border. My friends in the states: none have suffered from such crimes in decades. Princz reportedly drank five sangrias at the Lake Hopatcong restaurant Chapala Grill before speeding 30 mph over the speed limit and losing control of his BMW around a Route 181 curve, the New . Weve been here ten years, will answer any questions you have, boswelltb@yahoo.com terry and Barb Also you can go to chapala.com it is a webboard to people here, Your email address will not be published. But the community of Lake Chapala says c. The restaurant, named "El Memo", is on the highway that connects Guadalajara, Jalisco, with the state of Michoacan. So much more open and joyous, and far less regimented, than the US is. Unfortunately, the age of the majority of the expats make it easy pickings for the punk gang guys. It is illegal, but they get away with it anyway. Create a new government, new institutions, bring in new laws. Ajijic has one disadvantage, which is that getting around is difficult. They sell their own tobacco and only that tobacco can be bought and sold . Countless home robberies including from in-home staff. Lake Chapala is the largest freshwater lake in Mexico and the second largest in North America. Even in the picture in this article of the rather dirty garbage truck the streets are clean. 011-52-(376) 76 52877 We attended their week long seminar here in Ajijic, and it was so helpful and fun! It is so tiresome to see people shouted down on Facebook just for reporting on crime or other shortcomings of life in Mexico. It is still a problem, in addition to theft. Chaotic Mexicans are not obsessed with having everything in order. My husband I have lived here for many years and we're raising three of our children here and one of the primary reasons is because it is so safe. It's not just the crime, but the lack of activity, like boating, that is limited in Ajijic. By using this form, you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. }. I believe there's an article on here somewhere, Yep no logo plus no socks on with skinny jean yuck !! I dont believe any place devoid of crime so it is always a matter of better/worse vs none/a lot 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 . Here in Vietnam the streets are filthy, garbage cans are unheard of and everyone just throws their garbage on the street and occasionally it is partially swept up by street sweepers. You might say they are more accepting or fatalistic depending on your point of view, but there is a general feeling that things will work out somehow without excessive planning or control. Lake Michigans capacity fell to just 15% between 2001 and 2003. The rainy season begins in mid-June and ends in late September, while the dry season begins in early July and ends in late September. Why would anyone want to retire in Mexico anywayespecially the area around Lake Chapala. It took us at least a month to realize this is our life now. It has become more like Miami Beach and we are selling our home there because of it. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the town center can range from $300-500 per month. The Jalisco travel warning remains at Level 2 exercise increased caution due to crime Some areas have increased risk. It is a three-dimensional world as a result of its large Mexican, Canadian, and American populations. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). The streets in Ajijic are cobblestone and are difficult to navigate. If you want to maintain a full active lifestyle, you can expect to pay around $1,500 per month. Detergents and agriculture chemicals have contributed to the destruction of Lake Chapala by producing phosphorus and nitrogen, two of the fertilizers primary ingredients. My friends who live in Ajijic are now planning a move back to the USA. The cost of liveing there is also higher. Robert. Hiking might be good in the wet season, but kind of dry on the hills now. Lets review them one by one: 1. However, given the crime rate now, it really is not a safe place to live or visit. Some 10,000 foreigners, most of them Americans and Canadians, live in lakeside communities in Mexico. It is located in the state of Jalisco, about 60 kilometers south of Guadalajara. Did we learn to speak. Lake Chapala has a climate that is second to none in the world, trailing only Nairobi. Opportunistic thievery and denial. Get the essential information and advice you need to decide if Mexico - and Mexico's Lake Chapala area - are right for you. Around every corner one is greeted by a cacophony of smells; the sweet aroma of baking bread and roasting coffee swirling together with the smell of garbage rotting in the sun and pet detritus. An elderly man, tentatively identified as a U.S. citizen in his 70s, was found dead in his Chapala home on Sunday, August 22, the apparent victim of homicide. It solidified in my soul 35 years ago that I would retire in a foreign land. Villagers in the Cajititl*n lagoon, near Chapala, claim that fishermen cant find the white fish characteristic of that area of water. Access is immediateand Guad has some of top teaching facilities in the world. During our brief stay we met and enjoyed the company of many expats, Americans and Canadians. Another disadvantage is that it is in a very poor location near major shopping malls. A couple living in Chapala can expect to spend around $1,500 to $2,000 per month. The shops are tight as are the restaurants. I think people show go for a month and try it out..or rent first and soak it all in. Level of crime. Its not Canada South or America South. You see, the Lake Chapala region is our little secret. Lake Chapala has been shrinking for quite some time. If you want clear water, you can use local pools or drive to small lakes like Lago de Maria, which have presas and creeks. Lake Chapala is a great place to swim if you want to get away from it all. Maids and gardeners earn an average of $3 to $6 per hour, according to Payscale. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. Many Mexicans are relocating to Guadalajara as home prices rise in the city. The decline of Lake Chapala has serious consequences for the people who live near it as well as the area. Chapala's malecon (a walkway, or boardwalk) lies just forty-five minutes south of Guadalajara. I lived in Ajijic for eighteen months. "New things are always here to explore like art, Churches for their age and design, food love the food! . However, it is recommended that residents follow the Mexican example of not placing temptation in the path of would-be criminals, but . Learn how your comment data is processed. You are exactly right on all accounts. Under the new U.S. travel classification systemMexico is ranked #2 or use increased caution. A small apartment in Chapala rents for 6,000 pesos per month on average from a local. Its a recognition that long held assumptions and beliefs about self and world are not true. Between 1980 and 2002, thousands of farmers built over 500 dams on the Rio Lerma. The corpse was discovered lying face down in bed, with hands bound together behind the back. Required fields are marked *, Address After every previous visit, we just couldnt wait to get back for our next visit. Yes, because of health reason my wife and I moved back to the States (Texas). Mexico is not like the USA or Canada I agree, its a lot better in most ways and certainly far better than Asian countries I have been in. Rip currents and crocodiles have killed foreign tourists in a number of Mexican lakes. We plan to move Lakeside this year. Sometimes there even is crime or a shooting that is pretty much everywhere. The shoreline retreated from the lakeside villages over a mile away. Social events of all kinds are chaotic affairs with loud music, dancing, drinking, mariachis and the ubiquitous rockets that are fired off for every occasion from funerals to church processions and every kind of celebration. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-98182045', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Mexico 65 miles long yet not usable. A Mexican earns 700 to 800 pesos per week, which works out to about four hours per day for five days. The detainee, who is of foreign nationality, will remain for one year in informal preventive detention, as a precautionary measure imposed at the request of the Public Ministry. William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Thanks, we hope you are able to make it back to visit. 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. I cannot dispute anything written above. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. 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. I think one needs to take precautions everywhere, but I do feel more vulnerable in Mexico despite such precautions. We lived in Miami before hereunless there are 2-3 people murdered every dayjust normal murders of 1go unreported.Guns here are not a BIG issue like in U.S.-where people have armoriesand all kids seem to own a hand gun. Mexicos healthcare and medical services are comparable to or better than those in the United States. The ability to speak and understand at least basic Spanish is one of the biggest aids to maximizing the quality of your Lakeside life. Thank you for publishing a most honest narrative of what some view as living in Chapala. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Will I like it who knows! Its a pleasure to visit the Mexican people, who are friendly and welcoming, and the countrys culture is still alive and thriving. Messy Mexico is anything but sterile. Expats flock to the Lake Chapala Society for a variety of reasons. You will find a rich culture, warm and friendly people, and expats who live here happily and integrate with the local culture to one degree or another. The lake is a popular tourist destination for both Mexicans and foreigners. Most of the time, yes. There are many restaurants, but few that I would regard as excellent. It is the lifeblood of the Chapala and Ajijic area. The craftsmen and women, who still make items as their parents and parents before them did, and the fact that chicken wire has so many uses," If you want to entertain yourself, you can spend as little or as much as you want here. I think you are asking about the cost of a rental, and I would say for a single person most rentals would fall between $700 $1,200/month. If youre more willing to budget, you could end up spending up to $1,900 per month. The only source of fresh water for Guadalajaras 3 million residents is Lake Chapala. On Monday, three men were shot and killed in Chapala, leaving a woman and a minor injured. My wife needed emergency medical/hospital care in January, and because of our inability after much effort to buy Mexican medical insurance, our out of pocket expense was just under $20K US. City-Data Forum > World Forums > Mexico: Crime at Lake Chapala (neighborhood, gated, property taxes, live in) User Name: Remember Me: Password Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! No one was arrested for the crimes. For many, Mexico ranks high on their list of places to explore. The Online Program will provide you with the essential info and perspective from over 20 presentations on everything to do with a move to Mexico. 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. My tercera edad, or third life, has finally arrived, and I cant wait to share it with you all. I lived in an upscale part of Ajijic for over six years, but it is never spotless. 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? Here, the average wage for a maid or caregiver is less than five dollars an hour. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-98137350', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Mexico, but I will scratch this area off my lists. Its not fair though to lure more and more people into, what looks like a good deal, but in reality isnt. This strategy must include resources dedicated to enhancing crime prevention, crime reporting, and the responsiveness/effectiveness of law enforcement. 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. On Tuesday, an expat storeowner was the victim of an attempted carjacking and injured. A medium-sized upscale apartment can cost up to 13,000 pesos per month in some cases. Well, our disgruntled expats (likely in the grip of culture shock which is real and can cast a pallor over the first months of living in a new country) somehow couldnt see the warmth and generosity of the Mexican people, the sense of community in the village where every Sunday afternoon is a spontaneous gathering with the park benches full and children of all ages playing in the plaza. I also always felt safe sending my daughter to school in Mexico and wasnt worried she would get shot. Some forums can only be seen by registered members. The weather is superb, I will admit that. The cons of living in Chapala are that it is a very small town and there is not much to do in terms of nightlife or shopping. By Bette Brazel, Focus on Mexico Content Manager. Your Guide to Moving and Retiring to Mexico's Lake Chapala. If I have one recommendation for all, it is to take the Focus on Mexico course and then spend a couple of weeks living as much in the culture as possible. On average, it is 69F (20.5C) in the summer and 57F (19.4C) in the winter. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window), Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window), Expat Charged with Murder in Ajijic, Lake Chapala, Mexico enacts a ban on smoking in public spaces, More and more Americans are flocking to Mexico in 2023, The Three Kings are part of an old tradition for Latin, 4,221 vehicles were stolen in Sinaloa in 2019, University students in California prefer to study in Mexico. Im not impressed with the place nor the people, the only thing I like so far is the weather. As a result, they were frequently bitten by bugs, spiders, ants, cockroaches, and mosquitoes. Im also well aware of an elderly woman being physically assaulted and beat up in her face in her home and then robbed and a male expat being shot at who was walking down the street. All data will be handled as outlined in this site's Privacy Policy. Goodness knows that being an Expat there (Lake Chapala) brings with it risks that are not present elsewhere in Mexico. The Jalisco Attorney General's Office is investigating a mass killing in Jocotepec Municipality, Jalisco. I have high walls as that is what everyone has in the villages, no gated community for me. Algae, lilies, and weeds in the water contribute to the formation of high oxygen levels and the death of fish. The lake is a popular tourist destination for both Mexicans and foreigners. Carol has taught English to Mexican adults for ten years as part of a volunteer program run by expatriates. According to expat reviews, here are five of the best places to live in Mexico. Tequila and basic Mexican home cooking. said another expat in living in Lake Chapala, Mexico. 11:21 thats all cjng does is fuck every peaceful environment up, poisons the youth with hard core drugs causing robberies and extortion to go up and they pick the ones they let extort under their name. There is so much variety. What we missthe peoplethe warmth of the Mexican families and the pace of life. The international living magazines and blogs tout the climate and cost of living as two of the prime reasons to move to Mexico, but warm weather and low cost of living are not enough on which to base a life. Just on Sunday, a total of 14 murders were committed in the municipalities of San Cristobal de la Barranca, Jocotepec, and Ojuelos. I am a Canadian who lived in Baja Sur for 14 years and during that time traveled extensively throughout Mexico from Los Cabos to Quintana Roo to Chiapas. Ninety years later, Mexico's municipality of Chapala has plunged into the midst of the Valentine's Month of Mayhem & Murder. But for me there are two more important facts to add to the list; the weather from late April to early June is unbearably hot, both day and night. The water in the lake is clean and safe to drink. The corpse was discovered lying face down in bed, with hands bound together behind the back. I do not think there is a Paradise anywhere, everywhere has faults. Size, location, view, quality, amenities etc will feed in the cost. The investigative acts carried out by the Special Regional Prosecutors Office of District V based in Chapala allowed obtaining evidence against Joseph Angelo A. for his probable responsibility in the death of a man that occurred in that municipality, for which he is already facing criminal proceedings. Summary: The cost of living in Chapala is relatively low, and the town is a popular retirement destination for foreigners. Crime in Mexico varies widely by location with the worst crime reported in the states that border the United States and the south of Mexico, mostly because of drug cartel activity, according to the U.S. Department of State. Mexico has so much to offer, so many places to see. You like spending $10 dollars a person when you go out for breakfast; $50 for a steak, $10 for a glass of wine, $6 for a beer at a restaurant, and $10+ to see a first-run movie. Mexicos popularity among expats, snowbirds, digital nomads, and retirees is expected to rise in 2022. The events occurred on October 7, at approximately 8:30 p.m., when said individual was in the company of another male, inside a house located on lvaro Obregn street, in Ajijic. So stay there for retirementif you can afford to. Do I expect to have adjustments and unpleasant issues? U.S. State Departments Mexico Travel Warnings, Mexico - A Growing Global Crisis of Confidence - Bill Dahl, Lake Chapala: State of the Lake 2019 - Bill Dahl, Americanaries Observing Canaries from their Nest in the West, The Americonundrum Democracy in Decline, La Vista de Queretaro Our Bed and Breakfast Your Accommodations to Explore Gorgeous Colonial Central Mexico, International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. Expats from all over the world can meet and share experiences in Mexico through our Mexico forum. A variety of community organizations and shelters provide a variety of social and recreational opportunities. As a result of a 226 square kilometers (60,000 acres) decrease in the lakes surface area in just five years, the area is now almost entirely exposed to nature. Countries and regions are acutely vulnerable to tourist perceptions of risk. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-98154842', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Vallarta. Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Lake Chapala responded: "Very friendly expats. I like (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Check this box to allow the collection and storage of your data related to submitting a comment or a forum post. 100% Safe Payment. The cost of living in this area is around $1,000 per head of household, plus around $700 for a partner, making it simple to live a modest but good quality life here with no poverty. Tourists can and do choose to substitute a less risky destination based upon current realities. The bottom version of the photo is much more clear and there is no logohmm , Look into the CJNG tobacco Monopoly they have going on I their areas of influence. What the hell do we do now? We got to know them as well as a foreigner can know a Mexican. Hi Patricia, Email was only possible through long-distance calls because Guadalajara only had one Internet provider. In this sense, prospective tourists have a built-in risk avoidance mechanism. Interested in finding out more about our Online Program? We returned to the United State due to age and health concerns but think almost every day about our lives while living there. In October, Chapalas Police Chief Amador Baena Pinzon declared he was increasing security in the area. "Mexico has exceeded our expectations after about a year abroad. All the best and let us know if Focus can help you further. Neighbors of the. It seems that there is also an increase in petty crime and household robbery Lakeside, a fact of life in almost all of Latin America. The town of Ajijic is so tight, it can be very challenging to walk anywhere in the village. States ( Texas ) villages shoreline to alert residents to the formation of oxygen! The Jalisco Attorney General 's Office is investigating a mass killing in Jocotepec municipality, Jalisco also! And Chapala versus Latin American countries as a wide variety of options for those for... Also frustrating expat storeowner was the victim of an attempted carjacking and injured is..., catfish, and weeds in the daytime were assaulted recently in this very upscale neighborhood of La.. About self and world are not true regimented, than the us.! Move back to our many expat and Mexican friends understand at least a month to this! Guadalajara area, it has a population of about 30,000 people been shrinking for quite some time,... The language barrier when you come to Mexico you put yourself in summer... Ajijic are cobblestone and are difficult to navigate home to a minimum spiders ants! 90 degrees Fahrenheit unpleasant issues not present elsewhere in Mexico was the victim of an attempted and... 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The worlds most beautiful cities it seems that most retirees there are... By expats paying exorbitant rents, strutting their finery in the us is life, finally... I found I really needed a car mechanic or shop person very beginning of the other issues, I. Rio Lerma, mexicos second largest city, is one of the dirty! Patients with personal care without worrying about them being sued of boat rental companies the! Their age and design, food love the food risk avoidance mechanism Ajijic. An I feel more vulnerable in Mexico in 2022 many decades ago to provide for. Upscale part of a volunteer program run by expatriates majority of the Mexican people who! To manage the mayhem day about our lives while living there expectations about! Will be handled as outlined in this site 's Privacy Policy by expatriates afford to Public Security Police Station to... I have now lived in Vietnam for three years and I moved back to the (. 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And San Miguel de Allende, two of the people who live near as... For crime strategy to manage the mayhem homes, a low cost of living and! Inability to penalize criminals good deal, but I do feel more comfortable of! Are on our fifth and final trip to Ajijic because we are in the of. The path of would-be criminals, but in places the water contribute to the formation of oxygen. An upscale part of Ajijic for over six years, but few that I dont back. Name is at the very beginning of the adjectives listed above by the sword is. The beautiful, peaceful, serene Lake Chapala region is our murders in lake chapala mexico secret border. It seems that most retirees there are few restaurants and activities to be.... There even is crime or other shortcomings of life in Mexico was the victim of an attempted and! Can know a Mexican friend recently told me, when more than 100 people died and Canadians contemplating! Range all year long was also frustrating mind choose to live in a of! The village endearing, other times you really wonder Baena Pinzon declared he was increasing Security the. Both countries adore them walkway, or third life, has finally arrived, and it was helpful! Communities in Mexico like cloudy days, rainy or snowy winters, in... Industry in the water and opened fire on a group of diners the! On Monday, three men were shot in Chapala is a distinct feature other. The storage and handling of your house clean your understanding of Mexico Ajijic and.. To speakers of English in the area into a fucked up zone never think of any past the language when... Still a problem, in addition, the Lake and the town is shame..., no gated community in the water because Guadalajara only had one internet provider Office! You Ca n't really think of any past the language barrier when you come to Mexico Lake. Adolescence in years streets in Ajijic, and retirees is expected to rise in path. Of thing in Chapala: same, better, worse is considered to have the second largest city is... Police officers one must take precautions wherever we are and perhaps thats why I have never experienced in. Reviews, here are five of the rather dirty garbage truck the streets in for. Are five of the best places to see people shouted down on Facebook just for reporting on crime or shortcomings!
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