| |
|
Lake Chapala Mexico |
|
|
Lake Chapala, Mexico nestled in a mountain valley just 50 minutes south of Guadalajara and 25 minutes from the international airport, is the largest inland body of water in Mexico. It is 90 km long and 20 km wide and is situated on the border between the states of Jalisco and Michoacan and approximately a 3 ½ hour drive from the Pacific ocean.
Lake Chapala Mx has become a retirement heaven for Americans, Canadians, and Europeans; people from all over the world come to enjoy the warm days and cool nights along the shores of our beautiful lake. Crimson sunrises and golden sunsets serve to heighten their enjoyment of each majestic day.
You`ll find it both a pleasure and a privilege to feel so welcome living in Lake Chapala, Mexico. Although there is no confirmed statistic, several thousands of foreigners have made Lake Chapala their home, either full or part time. The area has grown to be one of the most popular colonies in North America.
Unlike the traditional resort locations on the coast where people like to vacation, Lake Chapala is a place where people come to live. Here on the lakeside, we enjoy a lower cost of living, a more temperate climate and a ready-made infrastructure.
If you have more questions about Lake Chapala, or need more information feel free to contact us
|
| |
|
 |
| |
The Sierra & Lake Chapala in Mexico |
|
|
Lake Chapala, Mexico nestled in a mountain valley just 50 minutes south of Guadalajara and 25 minutes from the international airport, is the largest inland body of water in Mexico. It is 90 km long and 20 km wide and is situated on the border between the states of Jalisco and Michoacan and approximately a 3 ½ hour drive from the Pacific ocean.
Lake Chapala Mx has become a retirement heaven for Americans, Canadians, and Europeans; people from all over the world come to enjoy the warm days and cool nights along the shores of our beautiful lake. Crimson sunrises and golden sunsets serve to heighten their enjoyment of each majestic day.
You`ll find it both a pleasure and a privilege to feel so welcome living in Lake Chapala, Mexico. Although there is no confirmed statistic, several thousands of foreigners have made Lake Chapala their home, either full or part time. The area has grown to be one of the most popular colonies in North America.
Unlike the traditional resort locations on the coast where people like to vacation, Lake Chapala is a place where people come to live. Here on the lakeside, we enjoy a lower cost of living, a more temperate climate and a ready-made infrastructure.
If you have more questions about Lake Chapala, or need more information feel free to contact us
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Ajijic Jalisco and Lake Chapala, Mexico |
|
|
Ajijic Mexico is a narrow strip of land between the mountains to the north and the Lake Chapala to the South. It is flanked by San Antonio Tlayacapan to the east and San Juan Cosala to the west. It is seven kilometers west of Chapala Mexico . Its average annual temperature is 19.9 degrees Centigrade "68°F".
Ajijic, Lake Chapala is a truly representative example of the typical Mexican pueblo with its narrow cobblestone streets and central plaza, this 450 year old village is the most popular place for visitors and residents alike. The very colorful buildings along the main street from the highway to the lake and surrounding the plaza are home to a wide variety of shops where you will find jewelry, clothing, art galleries, corner stores, gift shops, and many fine restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisine from many parts of the world.
Ajijic Mexico is a village of greenery and flowers. The main plaza is a pleasant, shaded oasis on a hot day. Many streets are tree-lined. Some very old trees have grown to be giants. Bougainvillea cascades over garden walls, shading sidewalks.
A bit about life in our wonderful village of Ajijic...
Ajijic has numerous active social groups in the area including The Lake Chapala Society, with more than 3,100 members, bridge clubs, garden clubs, the American Legion, and the Lakeside Little Theater, to name a few of the more than 40 active clubs and charitable organizations. A variety of classes, including art, handicrafts, music and, of course, español, are available, as well as sports such as tennis, golf, walking, boating and fishing! The concerts, art galleries, and restaurants will delight your senses. Why Not Give Mexico a Try?
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Chapala Jalisco in Lake Chapala Mexico |
|
|
Chapala Mexico , the largest of the six Lakeside communities was founded in 1538 and has been called home by such notables as President Porfirio Diaz and D.H. Lawrence (who wrote “The Plumed Serpent” while staying in the main house of the Q & Q Inn); many large properties along the lake were weekend homes to wealthy people from Guadalajara and Mexico City and also to some of the rich and famous from Mexico, United States and even Europe.
Chapala Mexico is located on the north shore of Lake Chapala, 26 km. (16 mi.) east of the Lake's western end, and 42 km. (25 mi.) south of Guadalajara. It is the oldest, most populated, and the most easterly of a string of villages - Chapala, San Antonio Tlayacapan, Ajijic , San Juan Cosala and Jocopetec - known locally as Chapala Lakeside.
Chapala's main street is blooming with trees, plants and flowers, making it a beautiful place to rest. Among the varieties found in the area are pine, evergreen oak, palo dulce, huizache, campanilla, caspire, madrono, saucillo, tepame and chaparral.
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Cost of Living in Lake Chapala Mexico |
|
|
Lake Chapala, Mexico nestled in a mountain valley just 50 minutes south of Guadalajara and 25 minutes from the international airport, is the largest inland body of water in Mexico. It is 90 km long and 20 km wide and is situated on the border between the states of Jalisco and Michoacan and approximately a 3 ½ hour drive from the Pacific ocean.
Lake Chapala Mx has become a retirement heaven for Americans, Canadians, and Europeans; people from all over the world come to enjoy the warm days and cool nights along the shores of our beautiful lake. Crimson sunrises and golden sunsets serve to heighten their enjoyment of each majestic day.
You`ll find it both a pleasure and a privilege to feel so welcome living in Lake Chapala, Mexico. Although there is no confirmed statistic, several thousands of foreigners have made Lake Chapala their home, either full or part time. The area has grown to be one of the most popular colonies in North America.
Unlike the traditional resort locations on the coast where people like to vacation, Lake Chapala is a place where people come to live. Here on the lakeside, we enjoy a lower cost of living, a more temperate climate and a ready-made infrastructure.
Savings
Home Prices in the U.S., vs. Home Prices in Mexico*
| Three-bedroom, Two-bath Home in: |
Pleasanton, California |
Lake Chapala, Mexico |
| Purchase Price |
US$700,000 |
US$125,000 |
| Property Tax* |
$14,000 |
$375 |
| Total Costs |
$714,000 |
$125,375 |
| Total Savings in Mexico: |
|
US$588,625 |
| Yearly Savings on Taxes: |
|
US$13,625 |
*Note that the low cost of housing in Mexico can add up to an 80% savings!
Cost of Living: Lake Chapala Mexico is just more affordable!
The Maximum Sample Cost of Living Chart
| Expense |
Monthly cost |
| Utilities & Telecom (electricity, phone, internet service, cable or satellite television, cell-phone): |
$200 |
| Gasoline and Auto Upkeep: |
$100 |
| Groceries: |
$300 |
| Domestic Help (maid and gardener): |
$200 |
| Entertainment and Leisure (including dining out, cinema and concerts): |
$300 |
| Healthcare (two people at $240 per year for IMSS insurance, plus $80 per month for private-care incidentals): |
$100 |
| Household Items (including kitchen utensils and other home necessities, clothing): |
$100 |
| Total |
$1,300 per month |
Total: $1,300 per month, or around $15,600 per year, for two people and all that they need to live well. You can hardly beat that in the States.
Note: You can live here with low as $500 US Dollars per month for 2 people (Without paying rent).
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Lake Chapala Weather in Mexico |
|
|
Lake Chapala is Rated by National Geographic as the 2nd Best Climate in the World ...
The semi-tropical climate in Lake Chapala, Mexico is probably the first major attraction to the area.
This pre-colonial village in Western Mexico's Sierra Madre mountains makes for unparalleled living in a quaint Mexican village with all the services and amenities of lovely Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city, only about 30 minutes away.
Although National Geographic rates Lake Chapala Mexico as the 2nd best climate, we really think of it as the best; taking into consideration all the other benefits we enjoy here, not the least of which is easy access - a few hours and you're back home with friends and family.
The Lake sits about 5,200 feet (1,584.96 meters) above sea level so we get virtually no humidity. The triple mountain range surrounding the lake protects the area from prevailing northerly winds creating this excellent micro climate we so enjoy. The effects of the lake and mountains ensure that temperatures are pleasantly warm year ‘round, averaging about 23.34° Celsius (74° Fahrenheit).
April and May are our hot and dry months with temperatures in the 80°’s and 90°’s with nighttime lows around 60°. Fortunately it is the sun not the air that is hot. When you step in the shade you can feel at least a ten degree difference, so we are always comfortable, no matter the time of year.
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Retirement at Lake Chapala Mexico |
|
|
Are you tired of cold winters, humid summers and high taxes? Are you considering retirement in Mexico? If so, you might want to consider the handful of towns on the north shore of Lake Chapala.
Commonly referred to as just Lake Chapala or Lakeside, these quiet communities are in an area where you really can stretch your retirement income and find a comfortable lifestyle on about half of what it costs to live in the United States. You have probably heard about this place and wondered if it's somewhere you could live, in fact, the largest contingent of expatriates in the world, roughly 40,000, lives in Lake Chapala, and the majority of these folks are originally from the U.S. and Canada.
Life here is mellow, but there is plenty to do, and the coast (Puerto Vallarta) is only 4 hours away by car. Yes, the climate is mild (summer may be the best time to visit when the rains come early in the day, clear out by noon and leave the area clean and green), and there are banks, restaurants, hotels, boating clubs and almost everything else you will find at home (almost). But this is Old Mexico. It is not the resorts, and that must be kept in mind. Intrigued?
Consider this facts:
Lake Chapala Mexico offers:
- A lower cost-of-living (generally 1/2 of that in the U.S.)
- Cool lake breezes
- High quality medical care
- Plentiful recreation, from golf to book clubs
- Beautiful scenery, tropical vegetation and Lake views
- Easy air access to the United States
- English-speaking residents and a strong expatriate network
Lake Chapala, located 30 miles south of Guadalajara, is Mexico's largest lake, roughly 55 miles long and 15 miles wide. This area was settled by a Spanish priest in the early 1500s, and it became known as an expatriate retirement spot shortly after WWII. Today, Lake Chapala beckons to retirees, artists and craftsmen.
Several small towns make up the area surrounding the Lake. Ajijic, a town of about 5,000 people, is the area's centerpiece.
Cobblestone streets and spectacular gardens hidden behind hand-carved wooden gates and colorful walls contribute to its charm. This is where most expatriates choose to live and although it is a laid-back place, there's nightlife, lots of restaurants and adequate shopping (for serious shopping, Guadalajara is a short taxi or bus ride away). English is spoken, making adapting to this new home easier than in other parts of Mexico. Some books and guides will tell you that it's possible to live on $600 a month in Mexico, and we suppose that is true if corners are cut and sacrifices are made. We have found, however, that $1,200 per couple is about the average cost for a comfortable (but not elaborate) lifestyle in Chapala. |
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Lake Chapala Mexico Things to Do!!! |
|
|
Having a wonderful climate promotes a lot of outdoor activities all year round. This is obviously beneficial to sports and fitness enthusiasts with golf, tennis, cycling, walking, hiking in the mountains, volley ball, softball, horseback riding, swimming – in fact, just about any outdoor activity. The Lake Chapala area offers a host of recreational and leisure activities for both residents and visitors:
Golf
The Chapala Golf & Country Club and Chula Vista are both minutes away.
Balnearios (thermal baths)
The balnearios are one of the area's most relaxing and therapeutic natural attractions. There are numerous thermal springs, and the best known public balneario is close by in San Juan Cosala.
Swimming
While the Lake is not particulary good swimming, there are pools and thermal baths, and the Pacific is only an easy drive (just over three hours) away. The coast from Manzanillo to beyond Puerto Vallarta is renown for its beautiful beaches.
Tennis
Tennis is very popular, and for enthusiasts there are clubs and courts.
Horseback riding, biking, hiking and walking
There are pathes and trails through many interesting areas and parks.
Mariachi festivals
The traditional music of Mexico is celebrated often, and the annual festival brings out the whole community. The international mariachi festival is held in nearby Guadalajara in the late summer.
Art and artists
Ajijic has drawn artists and craftsmen for its beauty, community and superb natural light. Exhibitions change frequently and gallery openings are a favored social activity. Those dreaming of developing their own artistic talents will find many opportunities to train under accomplished artists in various techniques.
Traditional charro rings
... The original cowboys! A national sport since the 1930's, the charreada features intricate displays of riding and ropework. Newcomers to the charreada will be dazzled by not only the action in the arena, but with the dress of the participants as well - rich in color with detailed embroidery on both jacket and pants.
And there are many local, special fiestas and events during the year to attend, participate in and enjoy:
Clubs and social groups
There are over forty active clubs and community service and social organizations that welcome the participation of all residents in the Ajijic area. Just to start the list... the Humane Society, the American Legion, several Garden Groups, Daughters of the American Revolution, Duplicate and Progressive Bridge Clubs, Culinary Arts Society, Computer Club, Needle Pushers, Music Appreciation Society, The Writer's Group, Genealogy Club, Chess Club, Lakeside Little Theater and two Yacht Clubs. There are also classes in music, handcrafts, art, computers and Spanish.
Gardening
If you like gardening then Lake Chapala would be your personal paradise. Plants, flowers, trees grow at an incredible rate and the variety is unbelievable. Many of the potted plants north of the border are full blown trees here in Mexico. Here at Christmas you will see 4 – 6 foot poinsetta trees in full bloom.
The Lake Chapala Society
With more than 2500 members, the Lake Chapala Society is "the place" to meet and greet. With beautiful grounds and facilities, lots of events, an english language library of reknown and an impressive array of community contributions, it is well worth the minimal fee. The society has it's own website with lots of information at www.lakechapalasociety.org
There are many associations and societies to belong to and if you like to ‘volunteer’ you will be in big demand.
- Amateur Theatre at the Little Theater
- Joining a choir
- Becoming a part-time English Teacher
- Sharing your hobby – teaching it to others
- Painting
- The Auditorio, arranged by such organizations as MAS (Music Appreciation Society)
- The Little Theatre
- Local restaurants
- Movie Theaters
- Local Charities arrange numerous events at a variety of venues, quite often with big name artists.
Doing that special thing you always wanted to do ‘some day’ – now is that time If by chance there is something you want to do that isn’t being offered, start it up and others will join in. That’s how all the current activities got started.
|
|
