Who are you? A life-long adventurer for whom retirement and relocation are just another opportunity to clear out the lumber in the attic? Or a senior executive concerned about losing your status and connections, and perhaps even the goals that drive you, in a whole new world? Retirement should be fun. It should bring new challenges and new possibilities. Especially if it means leaving everything you know behind and starting that Mexican Caribbean lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. So, pack up and move to the Riviera Maya for retirement. But first, here are six ways to get ready for retirement.
Take charge
‘Retiree’ is a very passive word. As if all the decisions are made by your employer, leaving you with nothing to do but watch the grass grow. The first step to an active retirement is to explore your options and clarify your own expectations. Become an active ‘retirer’!
Money
There are some very obvious questions here. Do you have a steady income from savings, investments and pensions? Or do you plan to carry on working from your new home? Are you sure that you can comfortably cover your cost of living and accommodation? What about medical expenses? There is plenty of advice out there for the careful planner. For the free spirit, the alternative is to sell up, move out, and leave the rest to fate.
Timing
The timing of your retirement may also depend on financial calculations. But it’s affected by lifestyle choices too. Early retirement may be affordable although it produces a smaller pension, but gives you more time to enjoy and explore. And there’s plenty to explore on and around the Riviera Maya.
Location
Here on the Riviera Maya we are blessed with a great climate, wonderful beaches, mysterious jungle ruins and easy access to the rest of the world from the Cancun International Airport. There are expats here who have no intention of ever going back to their native countries. But you might have to factor in the need to get back home in an emergency – elderly friends and relatives or your own medical care, for example, or just to be with your grandchildren.
Accommodation
Here’s where our expertise comes in. There’s a very wide range of property for sale or let along Riviera Maya, including beach-front villas, gated condos, independent houses and apartments of all sizes. Talk to us about your budget, the options you are looking for and investment in property to rent to other visitors, and we’ll match you up with affordable solutions.
Lifestyle
What are you looking forward to doing with your retirement? A busy, fruitful social life, perhaps offering your skills to charity work? A quiet time with the occasional round of golf? Catching up on the books you haven’t read or the places you haven’t visited? Scuba diving or game fishing? Riviera Maya offers all these options and more. Make a priority list. It may just be a blank piece of paper with ‘Have Fun!’ scrawled across it, but the more you can tell us about your probable needs, the better we can help you find the right location and type of accommodation.
Mexico is seen as a heavenly country by many people. Its turquoise sea, white sandy beaches, and year-round sunshine largely contribute to such a flattering title. Lately, Americans have been leaving their homes and making the move to Playa del Carmen. What urges a person to suddenly leave everything and move to another country? Why has moving to Playa del Carmen become so popular in recent years? And what will you gain by making such a daring move and relocating to this charming place? As a leading real estate company in Mexico, we will give you an answer to all of these questions and show you how grand life in Playa del Carmen can be.
You will lower your cost of living when you move to Playa del Carmen
Doesn’t it feel like life keeps getting more and more expensive with each year that passes? Of course, as you get older, your expenses keep piling up, and so does your cost of living. Did you know that, for an average American family, the move to Playa del Carmen comes with a lower cost of living by nearly ninety percent? This is not a negligible number we are talking about. Saving ninety percent of your income means that you have much more money to spend as you see fit. Whether you want to save, invest or splurge, it will all be possible after moving to this lovely coastal town. What most of our clients are doing, of course, is investing in real estate to own a piece of paradise in this gorgeous fishing town.
You get to dedicate your time to the things you like
Once you don’t have to spend a large portion of your hard-earned money on necessities such as utilities and groceries, you can finally start dedicating your time to more pleasurable things. You can start using your time and money for more recreational activities such as scuba diving, fishing, snorkeling or exploring nearby towns. You can also start blogging – something a lot of retirees in the region do. The free time you can gain will always be one of the most alluring things about the prospect of making the move to Playa del Carmen. We think there is nothing more to think about – just move to this heavenly place.
All the mouthwatering food will win you over
Can you imagine being able to get a perfect, tasty meal for as little as three dollars? It does sound unthinkable, yet it’s a part of Playa del Carmen’s daily life. If you are a foodie, you can rest assured all of your taste buds will be happy and pleased in this piece of heaven on Earth. By buying a property in Playa del Carmen, you truly get the best of both worlds – affordable prices and world-class quality of life. Whether that property will be a small studio or a beachside house is up to you and your finances!
Mexico is the country of great food and Playa del Carmen won’t disappoint.
This coastal town is righteously called a slice of heaven
How many wonderful summer vacations have you had so far? After each one of them, didn’t you feel a slight depression about leaving the sunshine and coming back to work? This happens to more than 90 percent of people, which is why moving to Playa del Carmen seems so alluring. You get to lead a vacation lifestyle all the time. Suddenly, the endless blues become a part of your daily life and you get to enjoy sipping cocktails under a palm tree. Yes, Mexico is one of the best retirement locations worldwide (Merida being the leading city at the moment), but there is no reason to wait for a large part of your life to pass before you realize what you have been missing all along. Instead, take a leap of faith and make the move as soon as possible.
Slow down and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle
Time flies. Before you know it, the New Year has come and gone, and it’s already time for new festivities. No matter where you are living at the moment, we are pretty sure you are desperately trying to slow things down. And that’s what’s so alluring about Playa del Carmen. Here, people are not in any rush to get places. You will get a chance to enjoy the little things that previously eluded you, like sunsets, fresh air and the greenness of nature. If there is one thing we are sure of, it’s that it will take you little to no time to get used to this change in lifestyle.
The views in Playa del Carmen are breathtaking.
Getting to places around the world from Playa del Carmen is easy
In the modern era, we get so many opportunities that were unimaginable just a few decades ago. Today, you can hop on a plane and be on another continent in a matter of hours. When people find out that Playa del Carmen conveniently has easy access to the Cancun International Airport, they get some much-needed reassurance that they have made the right decision. Even if they did have their doubts about moving here, they suddenly vanish. The reason behind this is simple. People love to feel like they are gifted with options and have the freedom to go where they want and when they want it. Especially back home to visit family. Moreover, the Cancun International Airport is often opening new routes to and from major cities around the world, making it easier to fly in and out of the region.
This truly is the place to be. So, move to Playa del Carmen today! It’s a coastal resort town whose people, food, and scenery will win you over. Whether you believe it or not, there are still places in the world where you can regain your faith in people and recharge your batteries. And Playa del Carmen is the perfect place to do so. Couple that with a beachside life and you get a place you will hardly ever want to leave.
So, whether you’re looking for your vacation or retirement home, start doing so now. Playa del Carmen offers thousands of listings suited for all types of preferences and budgets. And our Buyer’s Representatives will help you through the process every step of the way.
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!
Cancun and the Riviera Maya are the number one international destinations for Americans for Valentine’s Day. That’s a fact. Its white-sand beaches, stunning sunsets, and exciting activities, make the Riviera Maya an ideal location for a romantic getaway. Better yet, however, retiring to the area could be as romantic as ever. And since we’re celebrating Valentine’s Day today, you want to make sure you have the perfect day planned for your loved one.
Playa del Carmen: romance by the sea
Begin your romantic day with a special couple’s photoshoot on the beach. Playa del Carmen has a booming wedding industry and there is no shortage of excellent, skilled and experienced photographers to capture a beautiful set of photos. You also won’t struggle to find the perfect location. Just pick one of the innumerable white-sand beaches and catch the colorful sunrise.
If you’re feeling slightly more adventurous, you can follow your photoshoot with a horseback ride on the beach. Just 20 minutes from the city you can take a tour with experienced guides. These tours offer the perfect opportunity to share the beauty of the Riviera Maya with your loved one, admiring the lush jungle and the stunning beaches.
When it comes to a dinner date, Playa del Carmen has plenty of offer. There are a handful of restaurants offering couple’s dinners including champagne and three-course meals. In fact, one of the most romantic restaurants in the area is not even in the tourist zone. Alux is located inside a cavern that is over 10,000 years old. The food is mouthwatering, as well. This is an unforgettable dining experience, and will surely inspire your love for years to come.
Tulum: a laidback romance
Just imagine starting your day off at a high-end, five-star spa. Your experience will include Mayan rituals designed to align you to the rhythms of nature for enhanced well-being. That is as Tulum as one can get. You can get a couple’s treatment, as well, with a steam bath and a massage. You are spoiled for choices when it comes to spas in Tulum, but we definitely recommend Maya Spa at Azulik Hotel.
After spending a whole day relaxing, you can pick one of the many beachfront restaurants at the hotel zone in Tulum for dinner. Enjoy the bright colors of the sky that the sunset creates. You could try your luck at Mi Amor. Inspired by both French and Italian cuisine – the most romantic of them all – this highly-rated restaurant will provide a perfect conclusion to your relaxing and romantic day together. End the day with a romantic walk on the beach.
Nothing Sparks Romance on Valentine’s Day More than House Hunting for Retirement
With Top Mexico Real Estate’s Live It Tour, operated by our expert Buyer’s Representatives, your Valentine’s Day could also be the time when you start searching for that home that you know you will want forever. Just like your loved one. Search through thousands of listings both in Playa del Carmen or Tulum and pick the ones you love the most.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Top Mexico Real Estate!
Retirement in the Riviera Maya – what’s to know is a guest blog by Betty White, whose bio you can find at the bottom of this article.
In the modern era, we are living faster than ever and working much more than relaxing. When we are young and full of ambition, we even find pleasure in the adrenaline that this lifestyle brings us. But as the years go by, we become tired. Not tired in a way that we only need one lazy weekend to recover, but truly tired, and need a change of the way we live. For this reason, people are excited about their retirement like never before. This is a chapter of life when you should find peace and just relax, you have earned it!
And because the place where you have lived doesn’t suit your needs anymore, chances are that you are looking for some other place where you can enjoy your retirement. It’s like taking a very long vacation, and that’s exactly what you need at this stage. Therefore, people often choose warm places by the sea with a laidback lifestyle and sunny weather. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Retiring in the Riviera Maya sounds heavenly. Let’s give it some thought.
Be prepared for the big move
While you are searching for an ideal place for your retirement, you should also learn how to find the best moving experts NYC has to offer. The Big Apple is a place with possibly the biggest number of moves during the year. In the city that never sleeps somebody is always moving. Therefore, you certainly know someone who had a good moving experience recently and who can give you a recommendation for some reliable moving company. Also, you can check out the online reviews, but take them with a pinch of salt. Make a list of companies you have heard positive things about, and ask them for free moving estimates. Once they provide them to you, compare those estimates and choose the offer that suits you best.
Retirement in the Riviera Maya, paradise on Earth
Riviera Maya is stretching from Cancun to Tulum in Mexico on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is one of the world’s most attractive beach destinations. Thanks to its white sands, blue Caribbean waters, and warm weather year-round, this area attracts plenty of visitors. Additionally, the region is rapidly developing and the high level of investment from the government and the private sector is changing the place. It’s becoming more and more modern when it comes to infrastructure, services, and amenities.
Traditional Mexican culture will just blow your mind. From music to food and cultural events, Riviera Maya is very much alive, in a good way. Mexico is the most popular expat country for Americans, with Riviera Maya quickly becoming a favored area. When retiring in the Riviera Maya, you will certainly find something for yourself. Whether you want a seaside, village resort-style living, or a city atmosphere, you will find it here.
Pick your paradise home by the beach
The Mexican government decided to make this region a focal point of tourism in the 1970s. And they made an amazing job. With just a little effort, this naturally beautiful coast turned into a popular vacation spot for visitors from around the world. Very soon, retirees and other expats discovered the charms of living in the sunny Riviera Maya. You know how we always complain our holidays are too short? Well, guess what? You certainly need a long vacation, but once retired, your life can become a vacation. You can explore local real estate options and, without a rush, pick your paradise home in Riviera Maya.
Modern Playa Del Carmen
Even its name sounds exotic, right? Once a small fishing town, Playa Del Carmen has undergone rapid expansion in the past few years. Nowadays, it boasts luxury residential condos, world-class shopping, excellent bars, restaurants and a wealth of entertainment and leisure facilities. Interestingly, this town has been the location setting for some television shows and has hosted PGA golf tournaments. Several Caribbean cruise lines include this city as one of their stops, due to its stunning scenery and welcoming residents.
Playa Del Carmen has something for everybody
Also, the hub of vibrant nightlife and tourist activity is located along a pedestrianized street, La Avenida Quinta, or The 5th Avenue. That’s right, you will have 5th Avenue around here as well. If you start missing NYC, take a walk. An international population and a big number of tourists give this district a cosmopolitan feel. The great thing about Playa Del Carmen is that you have all you need in one place. Whether you want to go for drinks, take a long walk by the coast or have a peaceful dinner, you will be satisfied here. Therefore, when retiring in the Riviera Maya, consider Playa Del Carmen.
On the waves of the Caribbean Sea
The astonishing Caribbean shore offers unlimited recreational opportunities, including snorkeling, fishing, diving, swimming, and boating. Some of the world’s top beaches are located exactly here in Mexico, and you will have plenty of time to explore them. There is also a handful of islands a few miles offshore. Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are two wonderful examples you should not miss when retiring in the Riviera Maya. Cozumel offers a bit of dazzle and glamour with a steady stream of cruise ships, while Isla Mujeres is more rustic and laidback.
Meet the amazing sea life of Isla Mujeres
The waters surrounding Isla Mujeres are full of sea life. Hence, the divers, snorkelers and fishers are rarely disappointed by its vivid underwater experience. Water recreation is a great part of life on Isla Mujeres. You can find almost everything you need on an island, but for those other things, a quick ferry ride into Cancun can connect you. You can rent a golf cart or bicycle to explore the island and see the sites, take a yoga class and get a massage. Take a walk around Centro and admire the Sea Wall Murals and discover a hidden treasure in one of the many shops. Most importantly, relax and enjoy the warm turquoise water, white sand beaches and charming people.
What are you waiting for?
If you needed inspiration, I hope you found it in this article. What is the next step? Find reliable international movers near you, pack your favorite summer clothing, good books and a pair of sunglasses. It is very sunny where you are going! Enjoy your retirement to the fullest – you deserve it.
Betty White is an independent writer with years of experience behind her. Positioned in San Diego, CA – she constantly takes on new and challenging projects for diverse niches and industries. So far, her work has covered topics related to the moving and transportation industry, IT solutions and software innovations, business growth and development etc.
February 3rd will be the 53rd annual Super Bowl to pick the NFL’s champion this year. The New England Patriots will be facing off against the Los Angeles Rams for what might prove to be a rematch from when these two teams met back in 2002. This will also mark the third consecutive appearance for the Patriots, and their fourth in five years. Overall, it’s their eleventh time (and if they win, sixth ring) in the Super Bowl. The Rams will only be appearing for the fourth time.
For those who aren’t necessarily big football fans but still want to participate in the fun of watching the biggest football match, Maroon 5 will be featured on this year’s halftime show. Moreover, they’ll be featuring Big Boi from Outkast and Travis Scott.
Just because you’re in the Riviera Maya, it doesn’t mean you have to miss the big game. In fact, many American expats live in Playa del Carmen and get together to watch. Because of this, many bars, beach clubs and restaurants host events for the game. But, if you want to go out and watch it somewhere, make sure to make reservations ahead of time.
Where to watch the Super Bowl in Playa del Carmen
Photo from USA Today
Zenzi Beach Club
Located right on the beach at the end of Calle 10 Norte, this restaurant and beach club is a great location to watch the game. You will be able to make use of their big screen TVs while you chow down on delicious food and tasty drinks. Besides, you will have the fresh ocean breeze around you and views of the gorgeous Caribbean Sea. You could even run down to the water for a quick swim during half time.
Wings Factory
Chicken wings are a very traditional snack for a Super Bowl game. And that is exactly what will be supplied at Wings Factory. Besides, you will be able to accompany the wings with large draft beers or other drinks special just for the event. This restaurant is located off the beach on 10th Avenue. They have plenty of screens for everyone to comfortably watch the game. That way, you won’t miss any of the action.
Legends Bar
Legends is probably one of the most well-known sports bars in Playa del Carmen. It is sure to be a top location to watch the game. With 15 screens and 3 projectors, you can be sure that you will be able to watch the game from wherever you are. Plus, you will be able to enjoy a selection of delicious sports-related foods and drinks to keep you satisfied at all times.
These are just some suggestions to not miss what is sure to be a great game at the Super Bowl. But, a quick walk down 5th Avenue or the surrounding areas will open a world of bars and restaurants showing the game. Or, you can do the old-fashioned at-home Super Bowl bash with friends, family and more. For that, of course, you need a beautiful and spacious home, like the ones you can find at Top Mexico Real Estate. May the best team win!
Retirement is different for each person. Some people seek retirement to simply sit out on a porch, overlooking the ocean and relax for good. Others are out to find adventures that they couldn’t quite have while working the 9 to 5 job. Retirement is a very personal thing; but the Riviera Maya offers choices for everyone. From a big city like Cancun (or Merida in the Yucatan Peninsula), to smaller towns that are growing like Playa del Carmen or Chetumal, and even to laidback beach towns like Tulum, Bacalar or Puerto Morelos.
Hustle and Bustle in a Laidback Setting
If you want your retirement to have a rich and varied social life, full of bars and restaurants and want a buzzing town with amenities, you should consider Playa del Carmen. You will be able to admire its natural beauty and engage in social activities such as painting, photography and others. If you’re more of a secluded person, you will find a variety of villas where you can walk the dog and take a short stroll to the beach for some alone time. Playa del Carmen might still seem small for some; but its exponential growth has put it on the retirement radar for years now.
The city has everything you need for a comfortable life. You will find large supermarkets, international coffee shop brands, and even clothing lines from Europe, the United States and beyond. It is big enough to support culture (having its own large theatre in the city), yet small enough to continue having that beach vibe that you might be looking for. Another advantage of this lovely beach town is how easy it is to move around by bike or walking. A car is only necessary if you are moving from point to point or going towards the other side of the highway. But in those cases, a quick and cheap taxi ride can help you out. Playa del Carmen also features plenty of real estate options for retirement, which you can check out here.
The Big City
Cancun is much bigger; but it might suit you if you are looking for a much more cultural place, and a serious variety of shops, restaurants and bars. Not that Playa del Carmen doesn’t have them, but perhaps not at the same scale. In Cancun you will find concerts such as classical music, ballets, plays brought from Mexico City (and sometimes even Broadway), and museums. You will also find supermarkets – large and small – offering products from the United States and Canada.
Perhaps Cancun’s largest downside is the complexity of the city itself. The streets might seem confusing, and understanding public transport could be difficult. But once you get the hang of it, moving around is easy. In Playa del Carmen, on the other hand, public transportation and moving around is rather easy and inexpensive. An upside to Cancun against Tulum and Playa del Carmen is medical care and treatment. It has bigger hospitals, better clinics and more medical professionals. This doesn’t mean you won’t find services like these in Playa del Carmen or Tulum, but for bigger emergencies you are better set in Cancun.
The Little Places for Complete Relaxation
You may be a person who really just wants to avoid the hustle and bustle of a city. In this case, you’re most likely better off retiring to Tulum or Puerto Morelos. These developing towns still carry that fishing village vibe and are a completely different world than Playa del Carmen or Cancun. However, the downside is that infrastructure isn’t quite as advanced as in larger towns or cities. This does not mean that there is no infrastructure or that it is not being advanced. In fact, Tulum is home to one of the most privileged communities in the region, Aldea Premium. This community not only offers luxury and exclusive real estate, it also has some of the most advanced underground infrastructure systems for telephone, internet, water, and electricity.
Both Tulum and Puerto Morels will offer a quiet retirement with amenities that are enough to live a comfortable and affordable life. Luckily, highway transportation is easy to catch and within minutes you can be at Playa del Carmen or Cancun for more specific needs you may have (like going to the movies!). One of the best things about these smaller communities is that less people speak English. This means you will have to practice your Spanish more, which is a great advantage.
These smaller towns also give you access to the little places, often incredibly beautiful, that are usually down a dirt road from the highway. They run through the jungle and mangroves and gives you something new to explore on a daily basis.
Your Retirement is Up to You!
You will end up deciding what best suits you and what your needs and wants are. In the Riviera Maya, you will find everything from gated communities, golf courses, beachfront homes, expat communities, and much more. The best thing is that everything is nearby. So, it doesn’t matter where you end up settling down for your retirement, you are still just a short drive away from everything else.
The first step is to start looking at the real estate options available and contacting our expert Buyer’s Representatives. They will be able to guide you in finding the perfect retirement place for you.
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!
Most people come to the Riviera Maya for the white-sand beaches. They think of their holidays and picture themselves swimming in the clear blue waters of the Caribbean. However, the Riviera Maya has one of the most complex and exciting underground river systems in the world. And it is worth it to swim in these cool, fresh waters for a change. Cenotes offer a special, sometimes secluded, and certainly refreshing, spot to cool down. These are sinkholes that form when limestone collapses and leaves a hole, often filled with incredible turquoise water.
Cenotes: Mayan History
These natural features were important in Mayan history. Villages were often built around cenotes because they offered a source of water. The Mayans believed they were a gateway to the underworld gods and the afterlife. Today, they offer a beautiful sport to take a swim or dive, beat the hit, and explore underwater worlds that you can only imagine.
There are thousands – perhaps even millions – of cenotes, underwater rivers and systems in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. However, here are Top Mexico Real Estate’s top 5 favorites.
Cenote Zaci, Valladolid, Yucatan
Found right in the heart of the city of Valladolid, this cenote is a great option for anyone traveling back from Chichen Itza or Merida. While many cenotes are inside mostly covered caverns, this particular one is mostly open. The entrance fee is $30 Mexican pesos. However, if you decide to enjoy a delicious Yucatan meal in the attached restaurant, your entrance is free. And if you do, make sure to try the chocinita pibil.
Dos Ojos, Riviera Maya
If you are more interested in cave diving, then this cenote is an amazing option for you. However, it is also a perfect place just for snorkeling or dipping your toes. Does Ojos is named like that due to the two sinkholes that are connected via a 400-meter-long underwater passageway. These sinkholes resemble two eyes. It is located just 3 kilometers off the Highway 307, 22 kilometers north of Tulum and 50 km south of Playa del Carmen. Because it is one of the most popular cenotes in the region, it is slightly more expensive and its price varies depending on season.
Cenote Cristalino, Riviera Maya
Photo: elcaminomascorto
This is one of those hidden gems in Playa del Carmen. While it has a large sign outside, it is rarely as populated as other cenotes on this list. Cenote Cristalino is a 20-minute drive south from Playa del Carmen on the Highway 307. The cenote is entirely open and does not have a cavern. However, the water is 6 meters deep, allowing enough to jump off the wooden platform located next to it. The entrance here is 150 pesos.
Cenote Jardin El Eden, Playa del Carmen
Photo: TripAdvisor
Just next to Cenote Cristalino, you will find a tourist-favorite: Cenote El Eden. Its name translates to the Garden of Eden, and it lives up to it. The cenote is open and its clear waters create the perfect place for snorkeling. The middle of the cenote features an area made of old bricks for people to rest. If you sit still, little fish will come and clean your toes of dead skin. These are the same that you would pay $20 USD for on Fifth Avenue. Except here you’ll pay 200 pesos and enjoy one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Gran Cenote, Tulum, Coba
Last, but not least, is El Gran Cenote, located near Tulum on the highway towards Coba. This is one of the top diving spots in the Riviera Maya. Although the name suggests it is quite large, it is actually made up of several smaller cenotes that are all connected by wooden walkways. The water here is so clear you can see fish swimming without even needing a snorkel. The entrance fee is 180 pesos, and you can rent equipment for an additional fee.
Cenotes truly are the door the Mayan underworld. They can open your eyes to the culture and help you understand why they settled in this region. Moreover, they are the perfect place for a refreshing cool-down after exploring the Riviera Maya. Today, there are thousands of cenotes in the region – big and small. Some are privately-owned, others are still up for grabs. But the truth is, everyone must visit a cenote at least once.
Especially if you’re living your retirement out in the area, it is the perfect way to spend your weekends and explore the area. If you’re just considering the Riviera Maya as your retirement home, start by contacting one of our expert Buyer’s Representatives who will guide you through the process so you can start enjoying these adventures as soon as possible.
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!
Merida is both the capital city and largest city in the Mexican state of Yucatan. It is known for its culture, art and history. Of course, it’s also close to the beach. When thinking about where in Mexico you may want to retire, Merida is sure to be at the top of your list. In fact, Merida is one of CNN Money’s top retirement destination. This comes hand in hand with Mexico being International Living’s best place to retire overseas. Now that we’ve got your attention, here are five good reasons you will want to retire to Merida.
Safety
The National Survey of Public Security listed Merida as the safest city in Mexico, and subsequently the city was recognized for this by the organization Building Spaces for Peace. The award recognizes Merida as, “an inspiration for others in relation to the culture of peace and for the actions of authorities to carry out and maintain tranquility as well as the city’s continued meetings with local authorities, businessmen and citizens on peace issues and security.” Moreover, the Yucatan government has been actively injecting money into safety.
Affordability
In Merida, as with elsewhere in the Riviera Maya, life is much less expensive compared to Canada or the US. Aside from the affordably priced homes, you will also find that every day expenses are a fraction of the cost for the same at home. Your own dollars will stretch further when converted into the peso as well. Mexico also provides low-cost public healthcare for expats (and citizens) which will ensure that you will be able to live comfortably during your retirement.
Amenities
Merida is the largest city in the state of Yucatan. In fact, it’s the largest in the whole Yucatan Peninsula, including Quintana Roo and Campeche. As such it is a large and developed city with all the amenities and services that you would need for a comfortable life. There are innumerable shops, both small and large, and the new Harbor Mall that opened in late 2018 is among the five largest megamalls in all of Mexico.
Culture
Merida has a rich history. Its colonial past has resulted in a beautiful downtown core. It features historic buildings painted in traditional bright shades of pink, blue, red, yellow and purple. The city is also an incredible destination for any art lover. The Museum of Modern Art shows regular exhibits showcasing local traditions and the beauty of the region.
The food in the city is also incredible. You won’t want to miss out on some Yucatan specialties including escabeche, cochinita pibil, sopa de lima, frijol con puerco, relleno negro/blanco, queso relleno, papazules, salbutes, tostadas and poc chuuc .
Living options
Merida is a large, historic city. This means there are a huge number of options for anyone looking to buy and live in the area – everything from colonial homes in the city center to homes in the jungle. Nowadays, there are many new condo buildings and gated communities being developed. These are great options not only for those looking to move and retire, but also anyone looking for an investment.
Make Merida Your Home
So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring our listings in the region and find that dream home you’ve always wanted! Our Buyer’s Representatives can help you narrow down your choices based on preferences, needs and budget. Contact us today!
When time for retirement starts closing in, it’s time to consider a place to retire to. Many people stay home and carry out their retirement there. But others are keen to spread their wings and fly. They consider heading out somewhere new, where that new breath of life is waiting. That is why so many people place the Riviera Maya in Mexico at the top of their list. It might be the weather, the lower cost of living or even the fulfilment of living abroad. Mexico has everything, which is why it is the perfect place to seek retirement. Take a moment to write down all the elements that you and your partner will want and need in selecting a retirement destination. Then start a shortlist of places that will satisfy the criteria. We bet that Mexico is at the top of the list!
When living in North America, you have several choices to live out the best years of your life. You could select Europe, Hawaii, or somewhere in the Orient. Whichever countries you are researching, make sure you do all your due diligence when comparing what best suits your specific requirements. But at the same time, don’t forget to listen to your emotional urges to live in a place that keeps popping up in your mind. And we certainly hope that place is the Riviera Maya. In all honesty, there are no shortage of reasons to consider this piece of paradise.
Just recently, International Living rated Mexico 3rd out of 10 on its annual report The World’s Best Places to Retire in 2019. Even though Mexico wasn’t number one, you have to consider the approximate location to your home country and family. Living in North America, most retirees and expats can be less than a 3 to 6-hour plane flight from home. The following reasons will help you complete that long-visited list of why you should consider retirement in Mexico.
The Cancun International Airport
This ever-growing airport is conveniently located on the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, just minutes away from the Riviera Maya stretch. It is an ideal location that can be used as a home base to explore other worldly destinations. In fact, the Cancun International Airport is the second largest and busiest airport in Mexico, right after Mexico City’s. Moreover, it is one of the country’s state-of-the-art airports. It is constantly improving its infrastructure and completed its fourth terminal in October 2017. Cancun’s airport is Mexico’s most popular ports-of-call for tourism. It provides multiple means of transportation to almost anywhere on the Peninsula. You can choose from luxury bus lines, shuttle services, taxi services, and reliable public transportation.
Near perfect year-round weather
Once you arrive in Mexico, you can toss your coat, sweater and boots in a box and store them away – for good. The Riviera Maya’s daily temperature rarely fluctuates throughout the seasons. The daytime highs in summer range from the low to mid 90s, and the evenings settle down to the mid and upper 70s. The colder months level off into the low to mid 80s, and a relaxing 70 to 73 degrees after the sunsets. These types of temperatures make every day a beach day. Mexico is all about outdoor living day or night. Can’t ask for any better weather than this. Especially for your long-awaited retirement.
Enjoy a Caribbean lifestyle
If having fun in the sun and being surrounded by the Caribbean Sea sounds like the perfect place for you, move down here now. The Riviera Maya has made several Top 10 lists as having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here is where the turquoise waters meet up with the fine, white sand. Imagine strolling along where the soft sand gently massages your feet, the warm tempered waves splash against your legs, and palm trees sway subtly above your head. It’s not longer a dream, but a reality.
The cost of living is unbeatable
Living a comfortable lifestyle on a modest amount of money is no problem at all in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. With inexpensive entertainment, low taxes, and bargain shopping, you can enjoy a comfortable – and sometimes luxurious – life. Other contributing costs of saving factors include the USD to Mexican Peso exchange rate and low property taxes. The latter makes owning a home very affordable. You will rarely need a car, because public transportation is very reliable and inexpensive. Likewise, walking around or biking is great due to the proximity of it all. Visiting nearby communities can be as easy as catching a colectivo or flagging down a taxi.
Modern infrastructure, modern comforts and stable government
Mexico has a very modern infrastructure that includes running water, sewer systems, water purification plans, and a very reliable electrical grid. Likewise, services such as Wi-Fi are offered everywhere, and many times it is free. Internet cabling reaches most places and has a reliable speed. When it comes to shopping, you will find familiar retailers, grocery stores, and outlets selling all modern conveniences of home. Lastly, the Mexican government has been and continues being stable. It also has plans to continually enhance the country’s notable reputation for being safe and very protective of its tourists. Don’t hesitate to let your guard down once in a while and enjoy life as it is meant to be.
Other factors for the best retirement in Mexico
Other worthwhile benefits are the fabulous cuisines, the ease of travel between regions (especially with the upcoming Mayan train), a welcoming culture and festive environment. These are only a few of the reasons why Mexico is the perfect retirement destination, and why it has topped many international lists.
Most importantly, however, is the ease of purchasing real estate in the region and becoming a happy homeowner in Mexico. You will find new developments which are thought out as perfect for retirement, such as Starlight Towers in Playa del Carmen, with its indoor patio and smart architecture. Or if you prefer Tulum, you will find places such as Puerta Azul, which offer open-plan condos perfect for entertaining visiting friends or family.
In the United States and Canada, Christmas festivities are generally wrapped up by New Year’s Day. In Mexico, however, the festivities are far from over. Mexicans celebrate Dia de los Reyes Magos (known as Epiphany in the English-speaking world) on January 6th. This marks the day that the Three Wise Men visited and brought gifts for baby Jesus. It is tradition for families to get together on this day, exchange gifts and, of course, feast with delicious meals.
The Arrival of the Reyes Magos
One of the most important elements of the Dia de los Reyes Magos is the rosca de reyes, or the wreath of the kings. This is a large, oval-shaped cake featuring sweetened dried fruit, which represents the jewels on a crown. A small white figurine representing baby Jesus is hidden inside the cake. This mimics the hiding of Jesus from King Herod. Slices are served from the cake to every attendee. Whoever gets the cake with the figurine then has to host a tamale dinner on Dia de la Candelaria on February 2nd.
However, for children, the exciting bit takes place on the 6th in the morning. On the night of the 5th, the Three Wise Men travel by elephant, camel and horse to visit the house of every well-behaved child. They leave gifts behind as a representation of the gifts brought to baby Jesus. The following morning, children will awake early and open their presents. Many children in Mexico today get presents both from Santa Claus and the Three Wise Men.
Dia de la Candelaria: Feburary 2nd
While the United States and Canada celebrate Groundhog Day, Mexico is looking another way. Dia de la Candelaria is known as Candlemas in English. The tradition of Groundhog Day is echoed as well in an old English saying:
If Candlemas be fair and bright,
Winter has another flight.
If Candlemas brings clouds and rain,
Winter will not come again.
In Mexico however, the celebration on this day is quite different. Throughout the country on this day people dress up figurines of the Christ Child in special holiday outfits and take them to the church to be blessed by the priest, and are then carried around by their owners as part of the celebrations. Another part of the tradition is to bring candles to mass, so you might notice some beautiful examples being sold around this time in some of the shops.
A dinner gathering featuring tamales is then hosted by the person who found the figurine in the Rosca De Reyes during Dia De Los Reyes Magos. Tamales are dumplings made of masa (corn dough) stuffed with either savory or sweet fillings, and then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed – this is a staple dish for many families who often have their own secret recipes. Often this is also the day when many people take down their Christmas decorations so the added help of party attendees is very welcomed!
Become a part of Mexican culture
After Dia de la Candelaria things get back to normal – until the next round of festivities! If you are in Mexico during February, be sure to take part in celebrations during this time. It is a great way to experience authentic Mexican culture, as these are celebrations that are deeply important to devout Mexicans across the country. It’s a beautiful view into the culture and lifestyle of the Mexican people, and a great way to get to know your Mexican friends and family.
The best way to get involved in the culture, of course, is by living it. So, if you’re considering retirement abroad, don’t overlook Mexico. We have thousands of properties suited for all styles, needs and budgets. Make sure to contact our Top Mexico Real Estate Buyer’s Representatives and start looking for your dream home in Mexico!
