By S. Hohwy
An expanse of water greater than the eyes can capture. Sunrays warm the body and soul every day of the year. Simplicity and sophistication in harmony. Living in a thriving community without the stifling feeling of a hectic urban centre. Being a hop away from an international and cosmopolitan city, which could carry us around the world in an instant, while enjoying a rich and friendly village atmosphere. Looking up every night at a heavenly extravaganza of stars to guide our dreams and inspire our mornings. Ultimately, a paradise we could call home for a fulfilling retirement.
I had been dreaming of finding such a place for our retirement for a long time. A few years ago, my wife and I, while leafing through an issue of the National Geographic magazine, came upon an article about one of the best climates in the world. The place was called Lake Chapala, some 5,200 feet above sea level, in Mexico. We were prompted to read more about the history, geography and people of the area before our on-site explorations began. A few years have already passed since we settled into Ajijic (pronounced ah-hee-HEEK); a thriving community of Canadians, Americans and Europeans, folks from around the world who have elected to call this place their home.
Over the years, the shores of Lake Chapala have welcomed thousands of retired and semi-retired people; currently estimated at 15 to 20,000 people (about 40+ % Canadians, 40+ % Americans and the balance Europeans – people from all walks of life and 31 nations). This special environment provides a wonderland of sunny skies, dry and mild temperatures with an average of 24 decrees C all year-round. Indeed, many Americans flock to Ajijic in the summer to escape the high humidity and extreme heat of southern U.S. States.
Here in Lake Chapala can be found cobblestone streets, Spanish architecture, well-stocked corner stores and professionally groomed golf courses. There are numerous meeting places like the famous Lake Chapala Society where new friends are made easily and there are lots of activities and things to do.
Outdoor activities abound and the nightlife is thriving. The variety of restaurants, bars and hotels appeal to all tastes and offer local to international cuisine. Do not be surprised to hear English spoken as a common language everywhere.
Charming villages scattered around the shores of Lake Chapala await your visit. The smiles abound and the sites always memorable. The artwork is of the finest quality, indeed some artists are world famous. Fiestas outnumber the calendar days. Mariachi bands startle the stroller at unexpected street corners and impromptu music will beckon you to dance to the rhythm of their guitars. Such stopovers you will often encounter while walking through open-air markets on your way to visit historical sites. There is always a food stand where one can stop to savor local Mexican food or just sit with a cool drink to enjoy the activity all around you.
Ajijic quickly became a centre of attraction for our relatives and friends who found it easily accessible by plane. They experienced a safe environment with modern amenities in a semi-rural setting. They were thrilled! The latest conveniences of modern living, information through newspapers and magazines delivered regularly from Canada and U.S.A. available at the corner store, cable and satellite television offering a broad spectrum of North American channels for as little as $20 a month and telecommunications supporting the most sophisticated computers.
The financial aspects of selecting one’s retirement heaven are a major concern for most of us. For example, property tax is negligible: Taxes in Calgary of $3,000 compared to $150 in Ajijic for the same square footage. The cost of living is low and there are savings on luxuries. Most foreigners hire the services of maid and gardener for a couple of dollars an hour.
You can maintain the lifestyle you were accustomed to while working, although without the tensions and stress. Feel secure in knowing that inexpensive and highly professional medical facilities are at your fingertips. Major centers such as Guadalajara, with a population in excess of 8 million, are accessible 30 minutes from Ajijic. Guadalajara is a shopping destination featuring familiar stores such as Wal-Mart and Costco.
The climate is the healthiest one could hope for and soon after arriving you will be in a frame of mind to live life as it should be lived; to the fullest enjoyment for harmony of body, spirit and renewed companionship.
When we walk down a street, splashes of flowers in a multitude of colors surround us and remind us that we have found a paradise. The thought did cross my mind to keep it a secret…