If you are considering Retiring in Mexico, Lake Chapala Real Estate offers an ideal option; with moderately warm weather all year round, a wonderful lakeview and beautiful, lush, green countryside, easy access back home (the Guadalajara International Airport is only 45 minutes away from the main towns of Chapala and Ajijic), quaint towns with cobblestone roads, and on top of all this very competitive real estate prices, Lake Chapala Real Estate offers a rare combination of Mexico's laid-back lifestyle and modern conveniences. But what about once you are living and enjoying your retirement in Chapala or Ajijic? Besides many clubs and activities organized by other North American retirees, these towns also offer regular events giving a taste of the rich cultural heritage which the area offers, as well as Mexico on the whole.
One example of such an even is the town of Chapala's recent Artisan Fair, or "Feria Exposición Maestros del Arte," which took place from the 12 to 15th of November. The Fair is run and organized by a non-profit organization which receives the dedicated work of many volunteers to make the Fair possible. The organization is dedicated to giving Mexican indigenous and folk artists a venue to present and sell their handcrafts. Since may of these artisans have very little income, and depend heavily on this Fair for their annual financial resources, the organization does not charge the artisans fees or commissions. Instead it relies on volunteers and monetary donations to provide this essential opportunity for the artists. The artisans, who travel great distances to arrive, are aided with their transportation costs, and are hosted by Lake Chapala residents. Tthis fair is an excellent opportunity for North Americans retiring in Mexico and other home owners to become involved in a worthwhile cause. Donations are also tax deductible in Mexico or the U.S.
For residents who already have enough dedications, another simple and rewarding way to contribute is to go and take look. You will probably find many crafts perfect for decoration or day to day use for very reasonable prices, and thus directly support these artists and their work. The artists come from many different parts of Mexico and bring with them a variety of traditions, meaning you won't just see the same thing over and over. The artisans are invited, based on quality, so the items offered are only top notch. Both traditions passed down through families for centuries, and new artists with unique ideas are present, again offering variety. The organization responsible for the fair only requires that the works must be 100% handcrafts made of natural materials, and must sold by the artisan who made them.
Some examples of what you can find are paper art and weaving, potters, typical "muñecas" – dolls made in the traditional Mexican style with clothes representing styles from specific ares – "robosos" or shawls, roof crosses, and knives (yes, handmade in a tradition that has been passed down for 13 generations!) If you are interested, the artisans will also be happy to explain their work, the process of creating, and their traditions.
The Fair also offers excellent, traditional food at very reasonable prices. There is a minimal entrance fee of only 50 pesos, which anyone who has entered will assure is well worth it. For 3 years now the Fair has taken place on the beautiful grounds of the Lake Chapala Yacht Club, easily accessible in downtown Chapala.
This event is a prime example of the spirit of retiring in Lake Chapala; the towns' culture combine rich traditions from the area and other parts of Mexico with opportunities for non-Mexican real estate owners to become involved and enjoy it thoroughly! For retiring in Mexico, consider Lake Chapala real estate.
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