For many soon-to-be retirees, the idea of Living in Mexico brings Lake Chapala Real Estate to mind, and for a good reason. Over a hundred years ago Porfirio Diaz, the president of Mexico who was perhaps most attracted to high-culture and a comfortable lifestyle enjoyed a vacation home in the town of Chapala. While the towns of Chapala and Ajijic still offers the same relaxing, comfortable lifestyle that this president enjoyed, the cost of owning a luxury home here is now much more accessible.
Porfirio Diaz, the president and dictator of Mexico for 35 years, enjoyed his Easter-week vacations in Chapala for about decade around the turn of the century. Lake Chapala had its first run as a thriving vacation spot from around 1890 until the 20's, and was already recognized as a paradise by the social elite of Mexico City and Guadalajara (Mexico's second largest city, only 45 minutes away.) While at the time the area attracted mostly Mexican visitors, a few notable Americans also showed up early on, including the famous writers Malcom Lowry, Paul Bowls and D.H. Lawrence. Many beautiful vacation and country homes were built by leading architects of the time – perfect for Mexico's rich.
While some things haven't changed in the Lake Chapala area – high quality and well-designed Mexico Homes, a relaxing lifestyle blending rich tradition with the modern convenience – a couple of major points have changed; one is that you no longer have to be a wealthy member of high-society to enjoy living in Lake Chapala. Retirement-friendly and family-friendly homes are available starting as low as $150,000 U.S. You can enjoy a beautiful view of the lake, relaxing walks through cobblestone roads past quaint, traditional homes and historic buildings at a very accessible price, not only in terms of real estate, but also in the cost of living. You will notice that day to day goods and services are considerably better priced here than back home.
The other thing that has changed is that there is now a much larger established population of Americans and Canadians; while some arrive only for vacations, or part of the year, many have made Lake Chapala their new permanent home. The appeal of living on Lake Chapala has gained an established reputation, and many from north of the border have already decided become a part of this community, where Mexicans and non-Mexicans live contently together. The community gives retirees the comfort of living with people from their own culture, and the unique opportunity of becoming involved in a new one.
Unfortunately for Porfirio Diaz he never got to enjoy retirement here in Chapala; he went into exile during the Mexican Revolution. Fortunately for you, you can enjoy your entire retirement here, in one of the safest and most beautiful communities in Mexico and beyond.
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Region: Lake Chapala Real Estate Jaime Niembro has served on the board as vice president and treasurer. He also is an active member of the AMPI association having served as president including the Chamber of Commerce. Jaime is the owner broker of Ajijic Real Estate. For more information (512)-879-6546.
