The Temperate climate, with its numerous outdoor activities, makes it an ideal location for outdoor activities all year. Recently, 3 bodies were found murdered (shot) in San Antonio in the last three weeks, I lived in Chapala Centro for three months. However, given the crime rate now, it really is not a safe place to live or visit. How will the expats, residents and those with vested interests in the tourism and real estate industry in the Lakeside area become involved in advocating for essential solutions? The richness in Mexico lies in its people. The ability to speak and understand at least basic Spanish is one of the biggest aids to maximizing the quality of your Lakeside life. You like spending thousands of dollars for a tiny apartment in New York, Boston, or San Francisco. On Wednesday February 13th, one man was shot in Chapala and two in Ajijic. It can be difficult to complete a simple errand in a hurry because lines are long and multiple trips are required. So stay there for retirementif you can afford to. A medium-sized upscale apartment can cost up to 13,000 pesos per month in some cases. It has made my idea of living in Mexico a bit easier. Youre just plain scared to make changes to your life. Copyright 2022,2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004 and 2003 by William & Jacqueline Dahl. Moving To Mexico'S Lake Chapala: Checklists, How-To'S, And Practical Information And Advice For Expats And Retirees by Lisa L. Jorgensen, 9780985947644, available at LibroWorld.com. Dirty run down buildings, dirty lake, street surfaces can barley walk on them And, we were so glad to escape the negative politics in the US and avoided the election chaos while here in Jalisco. I cannot dispute anything written above. However, there have been occasions when the water has been contaminated with bacteria, so its always best to check with local authorities before swimming. How are they treated ? Street markets that have everything you need, and the smell of cooking. The lake is home to a number of species of fish, including bass, catfish, and tilapia. According to Dr. Stong, local governments should test on a regular basis and publish their results on a monthly basis. Foreigners are there for the picking and my Vietnamese wife wont let me buy anything except in the larger supermarkets. The Mexicans in Ajijic view the gringos as a source of money. All the best and let us know if Focus can help you further. Not a day passes that I dont reflect back to our many expat and Mexican friends. The lake is a popular tourist destination for both Mexicans and foreigners. What is the currentbstate of thing in Chapala: same, better, worse? Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Now, they are sending caution. 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. One of the pros is that the climate is very mild and it rarely gets above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Falling in love with this romantic place and then finding out about the current murders and fabrication of information, really has taken the wind out of our retirement plans. J. You see, the Lake Chapala region is our little secret. The poverty," The average wage in Ajijic for a Mexican is much higher than in other parts of Mexico because of the influx of cash from foreigners. 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. There are many different types of homes and land available, as well as a wide range of prices. Thank you, Mexico has many great places to live. Dangerous In addition to the lawlessness covered in point 1 above, the roads are generally full of potholes and topes (speed bumps) which are usually unmarked and often in the most unlikely of places. Due partly to the eclectic mixture, it has developed a continental Old World charm which blends smoothly with a distinctly Mexican ambiance. On Valentines Day February 14, 2019 Chapala Mayor Moises Alejandro Anaya publicly declared the urgent necessity for assistance from state and federal authorities to increase security for residents of the municipality of Chapala. The decline of Lake Chapala has serious consequences for the people who live near it as well as the area. 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. Unless you engage in illegal activities, the Cartel will not cause you any harm. It seems that most retirees there are married.. Most of the time, yes. As a result, other months would see a much lower number. Medical services are a joke and heaven help you if you get hurt. width: 100%; 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. Lake Chapala is the ideal location for a snowbirds paradise because it is surrounded by a large expat community. Its time to discard the dream and eliminate the illusion. Maids and gardeners earn an average of $3 to $6 per hour, according to Payscale. Countries and regions are acutely vulnerable to tourist perceptions of risk. Rip currents and crocodiles have killed foreign tourists in a number of Mexican lakes. 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. Home being Mexico. . Some forums can only be seen by registered members. Worldwide Delivery. You should also keep the sidewalk in front of your house clean. Mexicos water is not always safe for swimming. Just on Sunday, a total of 14 murders were committed in the municipalities of San Cristobal de la Barranca, Jocotepec, and Ojuelos. Here, the average wage for a maid or caregiver is less than five dollars an hour. Impunity refers to the failure or inability to penalize criminals. According to an article published by the Justice in Mexico 0rganization based in San Diego, Mexico ranks second to last on the impunity index in a study of 59 countries. The towns of Ajijic, San Antonio Tlayacapan, San Juan Cosala, La Floresta, and Jocotepec have been featured. Now on to your next adventure. I would never live in a gated community in the US. Thanks Bezerk! explained one expat living in Ajijic. Te amo. 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. So buyer beware, if you are considering moving to Mexico, you should try to make several trips as long as possible to get your own sense of the pros and cons and how they will affect your lifestyle. 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. For many, Mexico ranks high on their list of places to explore. .video-container iframe { This process merits special attention because illusions play so vital a role in our lives throughout the life cycle.. I doubt this what CJNG, reminds me of the tonala incident were NP massacred innocents to heat up the plaza. The crime occurred at a downtown address on Calle Jurez. We are Mexican American but he looks white maybe a part of the reason as hes been shaken down by police in Mexico and even my mom whose a native Mexican was pick pocketed so he feels safer in Asian countries where nothing bad has ever happened. 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. Mexico is a wonderful country with a lot of great. Random killings..gun toting idiotsthe list is endless. 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. However, it is recommended that residents follow the Mexican example of not placing temptation in the path of would-be criminals, but . Reports of a Canadian murdered in San Antonio Tlayacapan "Lake Chapala" February 3, 2019 3384 Canadian Global Affairs confirms death of Canadian citizen in Mexico. Will I like it who knows! Re safety and crime, that depends on the area and on the behavior of the person. Outrageous costs considering the quality you get on eg food, groceries, drinks and biggest joke of all rent or home purchase is outrageous Lake Chapala has a unique climate, beautiful lakeside homes, a low cost of living, and a thriving expat community. explained one expat living in Lake Chapala. It is boring..I admit lol, I do not hike. Size, location, view, quality, amenities etc will feed in the cost. In addition, the home invasions and petty crime are on the rise. Find out which cities and counties in Mexico will be the best to live in in 2022 based on current residents. The posts that influence perception of the Chapala and Ajijic areas on these sites has become decidedly more forthcoming over the past six months; disclosing the challenges and realities that inhabit the area, confronting the selling the dream narrative from those who have a vested interest in maintaining the mirage. The cost of living in Chapala is relatively low, and the town is a popular retirement destination for foreigners. Lake Chapala. bloody mary morning another big yuck, He was the main guy well known. swim in the pool and read. At the end of October they were encouraging us to join them. 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. During our brief stay we met and enjoyed the company of many expats, Americans and Canadians. In contrast to the United States, operations in this country can be more affordable. According to official studies, Guadalajara receives water with levels of aluminum ten thousand times higher than normal, he explained. Stray dogs abound in both Mexico and Rico, and people of both countries adore them. Puerto Vallarta chalked up 479 complaints, registering 15.82 crimes per 10,000 residents. :). On Monday, three men were shot and killed in Chapala, leaving a woman and a minor injured. It is the lifeblood of the Chapala and Ajijic area. This is all happening so fast. Anecdotal, but one friend had his truck stolen in Chapala last year, and another, her home burglarized early this year. The Valentines Day Massacre occurred in Chicago, Illinois on February 14, 2019. Probably for the same reasons these people are unhappy with the free for all of village life. Lake Chapala is an excellent place to retire. A 78-year-old Canadian expatriate was shot and killed in the Jalisco municipality of Chapala last Friday. Lake Chapala is located in western Mexico about an hour south of Guadalajara, and it is home to approximately 20,000 expats. Overall, it is a safe place to visit. There are many restaurants, but few that I would regard as excellent. Contribute It's not just the crime, but the lack of activity, like boating, that is limited in Ajijic. Find out more about Focus here. See: Violence persists in Chapala despite arrests and changes of police officers. Chapala's malecon (a walkway, or boardwalk) lies just forty-five minutes south of Guadalajara. 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. The land is on the Mexican Plateau, at 6,000 feet (1,800 metres) above sea level, in Jalisco and Michoacn states. I hear all you are saying Johnny C, but some folks like that. Hiking might be good in the wet season, but kind of dry on the hills now. Mexicos healthcare and medical services are comparable to or better than those in the United States. Ajijic is a small town with many amenities that makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico. Living a 3rd childhood in the clubs at night. 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. You havent figured out yet that you need to down-size your lifestyle to survive retirement. This article is well balanced, and accurate based on our experience. Travel on Highway 80 between Cocula and La Huerta is not permitted for U.S. government personnel. 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. I tried picking up all the trash in the streets in front of my house, but in a day it was back to normal. Could you please share with me an approximate average cost of living for a reasonable rental for a single person? The expat community is friendly and knowledgeable and from all over Canada and the U.S. The adolescent attitude of the people who are well beyond adolescence in years. 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? Thanks, we hope you are able to make it back to visit. Expats from all over the world can meet and share experiences in Mexico through our Mexico forum. read the picture's caption. I suggest you go to other parts of (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). For starters, they must believe what they read and hear in the U.S. media. The lake is also home to a number of resorts and hotels. Very Low. It is a popular retirement community near the lake because of its year-round warm weather and low cost of living. Their unequivocal preference is to avoid risk, inconvenience, and potential threats to personal safety. . Wonder if 2 of those were the boy's missing from northern cali? Weather is incredible year-round. According to researchers, the quality of the lake varies greatly, from a low of 32 to a high of 80. Moderate. Our time in Mexico was the best time in our lives. It is possible for a home to be robbed because there is insufficient security in place. We are all different. Hidalgo #223 I have now lived in Vietnam for three years and I cant wait to get home. U.S. Department of States Bureau of Diplomatic Security (OSAC), Our Wish for the New Year at Expats In Mexico, Mexico Is One of the World Leaders in Innovative Medical Treatments. Michael Sapp, a man who lived in Panajachel, Guatemala on Lake Atitlan for maybe 5 years. Take off your rose-colored glasses and read what digital nomads living in Mexico have to say about their biggest challenges and greatest benefits. When you live in Chapala, Mexico, you can expect spring-like temperatures all year. We returned to the US shortly thereafter. Thank you for publishing a most honest narrative of what some view as living in Chapala. Solar energy is also available, thanks to the sun and the installation of our new solar hot water system. The lake is home to a number of species of fish, including bass, catfish, and tilapia. There is a lot to do in this area, and it is also reasonably priced. Ajijic is a great place for a relaxing vacation if youre looking for something to do. When a gringo buys something, the stores automatically tax you more. Traffic cops may still question you and demand mordida (a bribe). Cops have all been extremely nice and not threatening at all," The average wage in Ajijic for a Mexican is much higher than in other parts of (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Sadly ,statistics indicate females live longer than men, hence the retired population would be female dominant. This is the reality., Mosquito Borne Illness Quintupled (Jan. 2019), Lake Chapala The State of the Lake 2019. An honest accurate assessment and a must read for anyone contemplating a move here. Expats living in the lakeside area are quite safe. Smdh. You like arguing about politics all of the time. So many places to go so much variety. 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. Its beyond heartbreaking. The unbelievably loud firecrackers and rockets set off anywhere for the slightest pretense of a fiesta, and boomboxes. 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. What are some ways to learn Spanish while also getting along with the Mexicans? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-98154842', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Vallarta. Glad you are in a better place there. https://themazatlanpost.com/2019/02/03/reports-of-a-canadian-murdered-in-san-antonio-tlayacapan-lake-chapala/. Very welcoming community. GET A QUOTE, .video-container { Crime rates in Chapala, Mexico. Mexico is an ideal place to live and work in terms of accessibility and convenience. Saturday, June 5, 2010 Crime and Safety in Lake Chapala, Mexico We live in Lake Chapala, south of Guadalajara and a few hours drive from Puerto Vallarta. Expat communities based in Ajijic consider it a very safe place to live. You like living at a lower standing of living than you are used to. 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. Because the events were reported, elements of the Municipal Public Security Police Station went to the site and captured the individual. We have been here 8 yrs-on and offbut live here full timelast 4 yrs.Yesstreets are messypower goes out frequently in rainy seasoncrime is concerningbut it is anywhere. If you are planning to visit the area, it is important to take precautions to avoid getting sick. I think people show go for a month and try it out..or rent first and soak it all in. However, for those of us who can adapt to being here, it has a great deal to offer. There are sports and intellectual programs, Some people feel guilty or others try to make you feel guilty if you simply want to The shoreline retreated from the lakeside villages over a mile away. You may fit that category here snowbirding and checking out the Lake Chapala area. Used to ride horses. 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? Many international visitors, including American and Canadian expats, have relocated to the Lake Chapala area because of the gentle arches and hand-painted tiles in the homes, as well as the variety of gardens that bloom throughout the year. However, there have been a number of outbreaks of cholera in the past. Ive only been here for 6 days and yes, I agree with what the Guadalajara people told me My brother far prefers China and Asian countries over Latin America an I feel more comfortable south of the border. We went there in September and needed to leave after just a few days, as the environment was toxic enough to sicken me. I had an apartment in the Mexican side of town and it was pretty reasonable. 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 seven police officers assigned to the Ministry of Public Security were arrested. There is so much variety. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and sailing. 12:34 you have solved the case, you've been promoted to lead detective. name is at the very beginning of the article dawg. 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. Glad you liked it. The one with half of his face missing los huertas. For a variety of reasons more and more Americans and Canadians are contemplating moving abroad for retirement. By clicking the consent button, you agree to allow the site to use, collect and/or store cookies. Half my life was city, half country ( here) now maybe a mix. 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. We have actually heard someone complain that there were a lot of Mexicans on the streets in Ajijc (well, duh) and they didnt like seeing them. Many times I fell when riding my biicycle. A variety of community organizations and shelters provide a variety of social and recreational opportunities. The most common crimes were home burglaries and auto theft. The U.S. government has advised its personnel to use the Federal toll road 15D for travel to Mexico City, but stops in La Barca or Ocotlan are not permitted. Learn how your comment data is processed. Its all in what you choose to focus on, isnt it? William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. No parking, and very challenging parking on uneven narrow streets, was also frustrating. Over the weekend, an armed commando arrived at a restaurant next to Lake Chapala and opened fire on a group of diners. Your email address will not be published. Around the time of the ancient Khmer Empire, the lake was a mile deeper than it is now. They need to hit the restart button on MX. Buyer beware! Deep wells were drilled many decades ago to provide water for homes. We love what we did for our country and what our country did for us, but that's all in the past," However, there are many back in the states who would never think of taking even the first step. This new coverage, may be saving people from truly difficult experiences, and may be saving life and limb for people who may not otherwise know about this area, or these occurrences. Fast Delivery. You are exactly right on all accounts. After every previous visit, we just couldnt wait to get back for our next visit. Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Lake Chapala responded: "Very friendly expats. Ninety years later, Mexicos municipality of Chapala has plunged into the midst of the Valentines Month of Mayhem & Massacre. People who already live in Mexico can find out what are the best places to live in Mexico in 2022 here. Following the trail of this violence back a few more months, in late January, two people were shot and killed in Chapala and two were wounded. News outlets have confirmed robberies and car burglaries are on the rise in the area. Mexico has a responsibility to protect the lake and the ecosystem that surrounds it. 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. 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. 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. Hotels in Guadalajara are similar to private hospitals. NOTE: This article was originally published February 14, 2019. There was one quite awhile ago but that was caused by a labour dispute. 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). You feel safe in places like New York, Baltimore, Detroit, St. Louisor, for that matter, church or the movie theater. Algae, lilies, and weeds in the water contribute to the formation of high oxygen levels and the death of fish. So, how safe is Lake Chapala Mexico? 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. Do I expect to have adjustments and unpleasant issues? 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. Lake Chapala is the largest freshwater lake in Mexico and the second largest in North America. The streets in Ajijic are cobblestone and are difficult to navigate. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. I am a realist so good and bad in everything! The restaurant, named "El Memo", is on the highway that connects Guadalajara, Jalisco, with the state of Michoacan. We had known for about a decade that we wanted to retire to Mexico, but we always envisioned a coastal city until we visited Ajijic. You are right on. 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. 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. Nobody has ever been convicted of this crime. The town has a population of about 30,000 people. Is Mexico City safe now? The Lirio, as it is known locally, was introduced several years ago to combat pollution and evaporation in Lake Chapala. Guadalajara is home to some of the best hospitals in the world. Its not Canada South or America South. Start from scratch. Copyright 2023 More about Lake Chapala | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. Read More. Perhaps you should try Puerto (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Its a recognition that long held assumptions and beliefs about self and world are not true. If too many Gringos and Canadians come down here, they might spoil it for the rest of us. We spent our honeymoon 22 years ago at Lake Chapala, made short trips since, and attended FOM session in July 2017. Get updates whenever new content gets posted. Creative Commons Non-derivative license is registered. It is a three-dimensional world as a result of its large Mexican, Canadian, and American populations. There is shallow water near the shore of Lake Chapala, but it is not toxic. We glance at the goings on from abroad and shake our head. "Mexico has exceeded our expectations after about a year abroad. 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. 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. In Mexico, the average cost of living is $600 $2,000.Monthly expenses include rent, Internet, electricity, and water, as well as transportation. 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.
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