mexico adventure and living in mexico...travel, vacation, retire, relocate for less in mexico!...great trips, hotels, retirement places, golf and more!

Mexico beckons as a retirement destination for many gringos, but there are plenty of North Americans who have left cold winters and a hectic pace-of-life behind for a laid-back lifestyle in this charming country before reaching retirement age. Nearly 500,000 Canadians and Americans live and work in Mexico full-time; many more live here part-time. Mexico is easily accessible from the United States, and some areas are close enough for weekend getaways. Most importantly, the cost-of-living in Mexico is generally one third to one half of that in the United States, Canada and many parts of Europe. Cost-of-living, of course, greatly depends on where one chooses to live in Mexico, whether it be in a rural town, a resort or a large city.

There is still fear about living or traveling in Mexico. Old rumors still persist and probably will for a very long time. Is it safe? Will you get sick? Do you need to know Spanish? How strong is the banking system? What about crime? The truth about Mexico is that it has changed over the past few years, thanks to NAFTA and other factors. This is still a diverse and ever-changing country, but gringos are welcome here and many have found a home away from home in Mexico. It is, however, a third world country, and living or traveling here can take some adjusting, particularly if you are used to a fast-paced lifestyle.

English is spoken in many areas. Medical care is very good throughout most of the country, although it is best in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Staying healthy is easy if you follow some basic guidelines. Foreigners can buy and sell property, although there are some restrictions. Transportation is good in some areas and improving in others. The banking system is sound, but you do not have to put your money in Mexican banks. Television and telephones are available. Internet service is available. You do have to pay U.S. taxes! You can stay longer than six months at a time, even without becoming a resident.