"Cultural Tourism in Mexico’s Interior on the Rise"

"Tourism in Mexico continues to rise, with visitors flocking to its beautiful coastline as well as its historic interior. The Mexico Tourism Board anticipates that cultural tourism in Mexico’s interior will continue to increase for years to come." Retiring to Mexico's interior offers residents a different appeal from the coastline city beaches. Take a look at MexicoToday for more on Mexico's cultural tourism.

San Felipe, Mexico News Source

For those interested in retiring to San Felipe in the Baja California region of Mexico, take a look and read through the San Felipe news available. Readers will be pick up on the vibe and typical happenings around the region as well as the weather in the San Felipe area, must need to know information for possible retirees to this area.

Mexican Cooking Vacation

Mexican Cooking Vacation gives individuals the opportunity to learn the secrets of Mexican cooking in San Miguel De Allende, Mexico. During the class you will prepare a Sabroso Mexican breakfast and lunch and embark on culinary outings outside of the kitchen!

Photo Credit: http://www.mexicancookingvacation.com/

Health Care in Ensenada, Mexico

Photo credit: mexicotravelnet.com 

What is the health care situation in Ensenada, Mexico? Ensenada and San Felipe (a city about 3 hours away from Ensenada) each:

"have small clinics that provide good care but are not capable of handling advanced emergency care. More serious emergencies should be referred to either Tijuana or San Diego (just over the US – Mexico border). 

Hospital Cardiomed and Hospital Velmar works with most Mexican and some U.S. and Canadian insurance plans. Both have well trained staffs and some English is spoken. 

Because of the recent growth of US retirement communities and the close proximity to the US border, English is more widely spoken in the medical facilities making it easier to communicate."

Take note that this is not the most updated information, make sure you research more in-depth.

Retiring in Ensenada, Mexico

Ensenada, Mexico is a coastal city in Mexico and the third-largest city in the state of Baja California. The city is located within close proximity to the U.S. as seen in the map below, and on the Bahía de Todos Santos (All Saints' Bay).

Ensenada serves as a commercial and fishing port and is a popular cruise ship stop. The climate is a warm Mediterranean climate and is considered one of the best places for wine in Mexico (both pluses for retiring here).

Photo credit: Wiki

Yucatán Peninsula Coined 2012 Top Travel Destination by Frommer's

Yucatán Peninsula offers a bevy of qualities that have earned the region a spot on Frommer's 2012 top travel destinations. MexicoToday offers a brief look at the top destination in Mexico.

Book Recommendation for Retiring in the Yucatán Peninsula

The book "Where The Sky Is Born" details the following account of a woman's journey in retiring to Mexico:

"Tired of the fast-paced city life in San Francisco, Jeanine and her husband, Paul, took an extended vacation to the Yucatán Peninsula in 1985. As she tells it, a chance encounter on the road to Isla Holbox with an English-speaking Mexican contractor led her and her husband to move to Mexico in 1994 and build a house in Puerto Morelos."

One reader commented that they were able to borrow the book from their local library, so perhaps check out your local library to read an account of a retiree moving to the Yucatán Peninsula.

Listing of Events in the Yucatán

Yucatán Today provides tourists and travelers alike with information about the Yucatán. For a sample list of events in the region, take a look at this Yucatán events lists provided, sort-able by date range

Frommer's Podcast On Exploring Mexico's Yucatán

Listen to this podcast interviewing Frommer's Guide author David Baird for advice on exploring Mexico's Yucatán and the culture available. He speaks highly about Mérida, Mexico. Listen to the Yucatán podcast or read the transcript at Frommer's website.

Investment Opportunities in Mexico

Remains of an Ancient Mayan Kitchen Found in Mexico



A 1,000-year-old Mayan kitchen was recently found in Kabah, Yucatán, Mexico. To learn more about the wealth of archaeological ruins in Mexico, stop by Mexicotoday.org.

Popular Destinations to Retire in Mexico

Learn about the best cities to retire in Mexico from this slideshow offering background on San Miguel de Allende, Lake Chapala, and the state of Jalisco. If you're looking for the costs of retiring in Mexico, the video displays housing costs in these particular Mexican cities. And for those looking for an expat community, the above cities have large numbers of expats living in the area. "Nearly 25,000 expats live around Lake Chapala, making it the largest North American expat community in the world."

Information For Those Considering Retiring Abroad

Seniors for Living is a website that aims to provides retirees and their families with the resources to research, evaluate, contact, and compare Senior Housing options. They've recently written an informative piece introducing readers to retiring overseas and what everyone should know about retiring abroad. The blog post is complete with retiring tips and resources, so that everyone can learn that retiring abroad is easier than you would think with some planning ahead of time. Read more about retiring overseas at the site.

Photo: Puerto Vallarta Romantic Zone

Photo credit: PV Mirror

From PVMirror (an e-Puerto Vallarta travel magazine) is a partial aerial view of the Romantic Zone, Los Muertos Beach, the old dock and Conchas Chinas in Puerto Vallarta.

Pictures Through the Eyes of a Retiree in Mexico

Photo credit: escapeartist.com 

A picture is worth a thousand words, so take a look at a few of these pictures from a retiree in Mexico about daily living in Mexico.

Retirement Planner

A one-stop shop page for resources about retiring comes from the Social Security Administration.

Ridley Turtles Thrive in Oaxaca, Mexico

The state of Oaxaca has a claim to fame with its “Escobilla” beach in Santa Maria Tonameca, Mexico - it is the site of one of the largest sea turtle nesting sites in the world. Take a look at MexicoToday for a video of this beautiful example of the rich biodiversity available in the region.

Over the past decade, Mexico has been working towards a sustainable and more eco-friendly nation and "the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas claims that two factors – patience and perseverance – are to credit for the survival of Ridley turtles."

Traveling in an RV for Retirement - Advice and Insights

I stumbled upon this great story of a couple who decided to travel via RV around the U.S. and Mexico for a year. The couple details the total costs of their RV adventure and their journey from the beginning (researching RVs to buy) to the final outcome of their trip. For retirees looking to live abroad who may not want to be tied down to one place, this seems like a perfect alternative. A couple of other helpful categories they talk about include: RV details, campgrounds, internet access, phone service, and mail. Take a look at GypsyNester's entry on traveling by RV.

Mexico, Where Social Media and Internet Usage is Booming

Gone are the stereotypes that Mexico may not be quite up to speed with the U.S. in terms of social media and internet usage. This video linked on MexicoToday shows the internet usage in Mexico. On average, Mexicans spend 3 hours and 21 minutes online per day.

Choosing a Home or a Condo in Mexico

A big decision to be made when retiring in Mexico is whether to choose a home or a condo. Different strokes for different folks. How much value do you place on convenience and service? Gardening and plants? A place that is quiet and out of the way? A location with old city charm?

Take a look at this one page guide to help you make a decision about housing options in Mexico.

Quotes from Retirees in Mexico Why Relocating to Mexico is Still a Good Decision

Photo credit: mexicanmarketfotos.eventbrite.com 

Mexperience features 6 quotes from expats in Mexico, speaking to why relocating to Mexico is still a good decision from them. The first quote is below, read more inspirational quotes from retirees in Mexico.

“We’re enjoying a better quality of life”. It’s no secret that the cost of living is rising across most of the world’s advanced economies—that is, shelter and food are costing more, incomes are falling when compared to real inflation, and taxes are being raised. Retired folks on fixed incomes are particularly affected by this process. People are moving to places like Mexico where their fixed incomes stretch further because they are not paying as much for the basic necessities of shelter and food and their incomes are not being hit by rising taxation.

Mexico Ambassador and Mexico's Secretary of Health Discuss Health Issues

The U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Anthony Wayne, has indicated that the Mexican government will work with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to improve health programs shared by the two countries. Read more from MexicoToday on the mission to improve the health sector in Mexico.

Retire in Mazatlan

Mexican Politician Jorge Castañeda on Mexican Individualism

Mexican Politician Jorge Castañeda speaks a bit about Mexican Individualism and how it fits into Mexican culture.

10 Expat Retiree Bloggers To Bookmark

Expat Info Desk lists 10 expat retiree bloggers that you should be reading. Reading first-hand accounts of other retirees abroad is one of the best ways to inform yourself of an area and what it offers. The posts can be inspiring and offer information that is hard to come by. The first blog on the list follows the life of two American retirees in Mexico.

Health Care in Mexico: Seguro Popular Information

MexicoToday features a video that easily sums up the the Federal program for health care in Mexico, Seguro Popular, which is available to all Mexicans.

Endangered Sea Turtles Return To Mexico's Beaches

Once on the brink of extinction, Mexico's Olive Ridley turtles are making a comeback to the coasts of Mexico. The Mexican government has played a part in helping bring back up the number of turtles with its conservation efforts. Take a look at MexicoToday's flickr for pictures of these Olive Ridley turtles and their environment.

Beautiful Photo of a Puerto Vallarta Sunset

Gorgeous photo of a Puerto Vallarta sunset.

Mexico Gets Ready For Its First Black Friday

Looks like Mexico is gearing up for its first Black Friday, from the WSJ:

"Mexican retailers are ramping up for a first-time countrywide weekend sales event called "El Buen Fin" that aims to emulate the Black Friday shopping phenomenon in the U.S. while also stimulating domestic consumption...El Buen Fin, which translates as "the good weekend," will stretch over four days, starting Friday and ending Monday, which is a local holiday that commemorates the Mexican revolution."

Think you can guess the most prevalent native countries of expats living in Mexico? Take the Expat Quiz.

Take the online expat game quiz provided by sporcle.com.

Authentic Mexican Food Celebrated at the First Regional Meeting of Traditional Popular Cuisine

A couple of weeks ago Mexico celebrated their first annual, Regional Meeting of Traditional Popular Cuisine. The event featured notable chefs and culinary experts from all of over Mexico! Visit the article on Mexicotoday.org for more information on the event.

Video: Retiring in Puerto Vallarta

It's no wonder that Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is one of the top destinations for baby boomers. Factors that continue to draw retirees to Puerto Vallarta are the affordable real estate, beautiful weather, solid health care and an overall high quality of life.

7 Reasons Why People Choose Mexico For Retirement

Photo credit: International Living

There are many reasons to retire to Mexico. An expat that has lived in Mexico for ten years and counting, has come up a list with just 7 popular reasons to choose Mexico as a retirement destination. 

• High quality of living for low cost
• A sound healthcare system
• Beautiful climate year round
• Rich cultural history
• Family based culture
• All natural living
• Simpler life

Take a look at his detailed blog post for more depth behind each of these important factors driving people to Mexico.

Socializing in Mexico, One Expat's Experience

I came across a blog post detailing one expat's experience about socializing in Mexico. It's a great read and touches upon the differences between socializing with other expats as opposed to the locals. Take a look at this post written by "An Alaskan in Yucatan." The post evokes feelings of why Mexico is a wonderful place to retire.

Ensenada Wineries in Mexico

Looking for wineries in Mexico?

Mexbound.com gives their favorite two wineries in Mexico.

1. Bodegas de Santo Tomas: This is Mexico's oldest winery. They give tours where individuals can witness the process of wine creation and aging. You will also be able to taste more than 26 different wines with varities of breads and cheeses. (tel. (01152646) 174-0836, (01152646) 174-0829, fax (01152646) 178-3601)
2. Cavas Valmar: This is a small winery in Ensenada. Many of the wines are exported to the United States and Europe. (tel/fax (01152646) 178-6405. Calle Ambar #810 & Riveroll in Ensenada.)

Cost of Vegetables in Mexico

Countdown to Mexico gives readers a glimpse of how much vegetables cost in Mexico, particularly Mazatlán, Mexico. Knowing basic everyday costs such as food really helps to get a sense of your budget for retiring abroad.

Mexico CIty Murals Painted By WK Interact

These photographs from Juxtapoz offer a glimpse of the murals painted by the famed street/fine artist, WK Interact, in Mexico City.  

"The soldiers in the mural are majestically riding their horses, an element that is very special and present in Mexico’s culture and modern history, from the Spanish conquest to the present day. The horse serves as unifying force and brings movement to the piece."

Festivals in Mexico in November

Mexico has endless festivals that celebrate its rich culture, food, and arts.

• Festival Internacional Gourmet - International Gourmet Festival (Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, November 10-20)
• Encuentro del Vino Mexicano y Gastronomía - Mexican Wine and Food Fair (Puebla, Puebla, November 12-13)
• Oaxaca International Independent Film and Video Festival (Oaxaca, Oaxaca, November 12-19)
• Festival Internacional de Musica de Morelia - Morelia's International Music Festival (Morelia, Michoacan, November 12-26)
• San Miguel de Allende Jazz Festival (San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, November 16-20)
• Score Baja 1000 - Off-Road Desert Race (Ensenada, Baja California, November 17-20)
• Maestros del Arte Folk Art Festival (Chapala, Jalisco, November 18-20)
• Festival Internacional del Globo - International Hot Air Balloon Festival (Leo, Guanajuato, November 18-21)
• Dia de la Revolucion, 20 de noviembre - Revolution Day (Throughout all of Mexico, November 20)

Video: Retiring South of the Border

1.2 million Americans currently live south of the border. This Fox news video talks about what draws Americans to retiring in Mexico. Two reasons among many, are the lower cost of living and perfect weather climate.

Book Suggestion for Retiring Abroad (and in Mexico)

Through the eyes of experienced retirees, readers will find sound advice for retiring abroad. The authors of the book "Retirement Without Borders: How to Retire Abroad--in Mexico, France, Italy, Spain, Costa Rica, Panama, and Other Sunny, Foreign Places (And the Secret to Making It Happen Without Stress)", offer retirement tips from the researching to finally living abroad and dealing with major issues like health care, finances, real estate, taxes, and immigration advice. On Amazon, readers can look at previews of the book before deciding to buy.

Respected travel guru, Peter Greenberg offers his praise on the book, "Retirement Without Borders is for smart people who not only want to think outside the box but live outside the box as well. Golson doesn't just give you a road map, he gives you the compelling reasons, as well as the pitfalls and pleasures, of why the low-cost, high-quality expatriate life is one of the last great -- and rewarding -- boomer adventures."

Mexico: What to Know About Real Estate

Bloomberg highlighted some challenges to retiring abroad, take a look at this example of what to know about real-estate in Mexico:

When Jane Walsh moved from Arkansas to Mexico's Baja California, she loved her "gorgeous" new home, with its white stucco walls, red tile roof, air conditioning and proximity to beautiful beaches. Yet she didn't own the land the home sat on. Like other foreigners who buy real estate near Mexico's coasts or borders, Walsh had to lease the property from a bank trust.

Government rules and regulations for buyers can vary from area to area. It might not be easy to get a mortgage, particularly if you're not working. Network with acquaintances to "get a good local lawyer who's going to understand the red tape," says AARP The Magazine Executive Editor Ken Budd.

Video: Avoid 4 Myths About Retiring Abroad

MSN Money features personal finance expert, Carmen Wong Ulrich, and picks her brain on avoiding 4 retirement myths. Carmen discusses the misconceptions of retirement, for example paying off mortgage payments early versus saving for retirement. Do you know what's more important for your retirement?

Camping in Mexico

Photo Credit: visitmexico.com

Interested in going camping in Mexico? Some of the most enchanting camping areas in Mexico exist at the foot of volcanoes such as Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl. Another place individuals enjoy camping is in the San Nicolás Totolapan Ecological Park. You can find countless preserved gems in nature just moments from Mexico’s biggest and most influential cities.

Mexican Director Talks About Filming in Mexico City and His Personal Connection

Mexico Today - At the Festival Internacional de Cine en Morelia (FICM) to talk about his movie "Malaventura," Mexican Director Michel Lipkes opens up about what filming in Mexico means to him, as well as his Chilango pride. Chilango refers to a person born in the Mexico City suburbs or its surrounding areas.

Flamingos Golf Course

Flamingos Golf Course, located conveniently between Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta, is a 6,982 yard course that covers more than 72 acres of land. It’s one of the most beautifully well-preserved courses in all of Mexico. Of the highlights of the gold course are the hundreds of orange, lemon, and mango trees that line the course.

Focus on Mexico Learning Adventure in Ajijic, Mexico

The Focus on Mexico Learning Adventure in Ajijic, Mexico provides an in depth look into the culture, history, and society of Ajijic, Mexico for those contemplating retiring there.

Swim with Dolphins in Mexico

Dolphin Discovery gives individuals the opportunity to swim with dolphins in some of the most beautiful environments in the world. They have 9 dolphinariums in the Mexican Caribbean including one in Cancun-Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, Mahahual in Costa Maya, and Puerto Aventuras in the Riviera Maya.

Where to Retire in Mexico Based on Interest

Top Places to Retire in Mexico: Near the ocean

• Loreta, Baja California
• Mazatlan
• Acapulco
• Mayan Riviera
• Nuevo Vallarta
• Playa del Carmen

Top Places to Retire in Mexico: Near the United States

• Rocky Point (Puerto Penasco)
• San Felipe

Top Places to Retire in Mexico: Coastal Towns and Towns near Lakes

• Barra de Navidad
• Lake Chapala and Ajijic

Top Places to Retire in Mexico: Traditional Mexican Communities

• San Miguel de Allende
• Oaxaca
• Cuernavaca
• Guanajuato
• Morelia

Barry Golson's "Retirement Without Borders: How to Retire Abroad --in Mexico, France, Italy, Spain, Costa Rica, Panama, and Other Sunny, Foreign Places”

Barry Golson’s praised book “Retirement Without Borders: How to Retire Abroad --in Mexico, France, Italy, Spain, Costa Rica, Panama, and Other Sunny, Foreign Places” documents all the essential information needed before deciding to retire abroad. He discusses real estate, immigration, taxes, finances, culture, etc…

Mexico City Illuminates Famous Monuments for Breast Cancer Awareness

For the month of October, Mexico City illuminated its most famous monuments to raise awareness for breast cancer. MexicoToday covers the 20 monuments that were illuminated and describes the positive effect of the increased awareness of this cause on hundreds of thousands of women.
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Video: How Do Retirees Spend Their Time in Mexico

This video focuses on the one retiree's experience of the many activities available for retirees in Mexico: fishing, yachting, surfing, relaxing on the sunny beaches, restaurant hopping, wine tastings, cultural events, art galleries, shopping, expatriate community gatherings, etc.

In Rosarito, Mexico, the expat community numbers around 15,000 people and is consistently showing growth as more people discover the high quality of life available in Mexico.

Where to Retire in Mexico?