Top 5 Reasons to Retire to Mexico

About half of all Americans and Canadians are experiencing stress about being able to retire comfortably. But the good news is that while those fears may be well-founded for those who decide to stay home, others who are interested in moving may find a better option to the south. The International Living Global Retirement Index recently released their rankings on the best places to retire, and Mexico was ranked as the penultimate destination. From the quality of life to the culture to the climate, there are innumerable reasons why retiring to the Mayan Riviera is an excellent option. Here are the top five reasons why you should retire to Mexico.

Cost of Living

Dinner

Many retirees are living on a fixed income which is often a challenge to get by on in our increasingly expensive world. However, in Mexico, a couple can easily live on as little as $1,500USD per month, including housing and healthcare. A couple can easily grab a round-trip taxi, a fancy dinner and do some shopping for less than $20USD. Moreover, there is no need to be thrifty.

Lifestyle

Thanks to such a low cost of living, individuals with what might seem like a low income can still live a full and active life when they retire to Mexico. Exploring ancient Mayan ruins or deserted beaches might be a great option for the more physically able. Or for those who prefer to stay city-side there is no shortage of restaurants or amenities. Moreover, there are hundreds of inexpensive flights available to destinations all over the Americas.

Climate

Tulum

With a mean annual temperature of 75-77 °F (24-25 °C), the Mayan Riviera is an ideal destination for anybody looking to escape the cold and dreary weathers we experience in most of the rest of North America. Cooling down is never a problem. Between the pristine beaches along the coast, beautiful cenotes located all around the area, or the full amenity pools open to guests at countless resorts and beach-side clubs, there is no excuse.

Healthcare

For those who are over 60 and are legal residents of Mexico, the public healthcare system is completely free! And for those who are taking advantage of an early retirement, public healthcare can be acquired for a mere few hundred dollars a year. Even private health insurance can be purchased for less than half the cost of US prices. Besides, medical tourism in the Riviera Maya has become increasingly popular due to the state-of-art technologies and professionals. This is one of the top reasons why Americans and Canadians decide to retire to Mexico.

Culture

Day of the Dead

From Day of the Dead to Mexican Independence Day, there is no shortage of celebrations and events to take part in to celebrate the incredible history of the country. On days without national celebrations, you can still take part in any number of activities. These range from shopping, fishing, sunbathing, diving, biking, mountain climbing, parasailing, collecting crafts, going to concerts, or fine dining. The list is endless!

Retire to Mexico Today!

So, start planning your very-well reserved retirement in the most beautiful part of Mexico – the Riviera Maya! Thousands of Americans and Canadians have already decided to retire to Mexico, living an affordable, comfortable and enticing life. There are also thousands of retirement-friendly communities, properties and options. And they’re just a phone call away.

And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!

The Best Retirement Communities in the Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya is known to be one of the most popular places in the world for retirees. In fact, in Mexico it only comes second to the San Miguel de Allende expat community. The bright sunshine, consistent warm weather and affordability make it a top destination for retirement. Without missing a beat, developers have started to create retirement-friendly communities throughout the Riviera Maya. They offer great quality of life, culture and friendliness. Moreover, hospitals and clinics offer some top technology medical facilities and treatment. These are the best retirement-friendly communities today.

Playa del Carmen: Retirement in the Heart of the Riviera Maya

Retirement in Playa del Carmen

Many retirees choose Playa del Carmen due to the proximity to the Cancun International Airport. It is also the heart of the Riviera Maya and has access to the main cities and attractions. But mostly it is the services of a big city while still being a small town that attract those who want to retire.

Moreover, the real estate market in Playa del Carmen is very affordable. In comparison to the United States, living in Playa del Carmen can also be over 50% cheaper. Playa del Carmen is home to big supermarkets such as Walmart and has international shops, bars and restaurants like Starbucks, H&M, Apple, and others.

Tulum: Sustainable Retirement by the Sea

Tulum is a great beach town with everything one could possibly need. Although it is slightly further from the Cancun International Airport, it has easy accessibility through the Federal Highway 307. Tulum’s exponential growth has led it to become a sustainable community with many real estate developments taking into consideration the damage to the environment and tackling the issue.

In Tulum you will find high-end developments that mix a natural and tranquil lifestyle with luxury living. Accommodation and cost of living is affordable altogether. Tulum is also growing when it comes to medical attention, having opened clinics and hospitals recently. It is also home to select and premium supermarkets, as well as boutique shops, 5-star restaurants and, of course, the most beautiful beaches in the Mexican Caribbean.

Tulum

Tulum has garnered international attention due to its winning beaches and amazing amenities. It is the perfect retirement destination for those who wish to spend their golden years chilling by the clear-blue sea.

Puerto Morelos: A Yet to Be Discovered Retirement Gem

Just 20 minutes south of Cancun you will find Puerto Morelos. It is quickly attracting more and more attention to visitors to the region, with many visiting it for a day at the beach. Its large California-style beaches are laidback and tend to be emptier than other regions in the Riviera Maya. It has a small population of approximately 9,000 and it offers great real estate infrastructure for anyone looking to retire to a still hidden gem.

It is a more laidback version of Playa del Carmen, and much smaller than Cancun. Retirees looking for something tropical are keeping an eye out for this small fishing town. Puerto Morelos is small enough that it feels like private, yet it has main access to the Federal Highway 307 and a large supermarket for every need.

Cozumel: Dreamy Island Retirement

Taking the Caribbean experience one step further is retiring to an actual island. Cozumel is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen and it has infrastructure that requires you never actually leave the island. It is great for retirement because you get A-class beaches, plenty of tourism, delicious seafood and it has everything one might need such as clinics and doctors, large supermarkets and plenty of shops.

Cozumel

It is quite fast and affordable to commute to the mainland, however, should you need to do so. Those who retire to Cozumel are often big on fishing and scuba diving – two things the island offers better than most other regions in the Riviera Maya.

Real estate in Cozumel is very affordable, as well. Because it is mainly a tourist destination and not so much a permanent living destination for foreigners, real estate prices are kept at very competitive prices. And if you’re a snowbird, you surely will rent out your property for vacations.

Chetumal: Border Retirement in South Quintana Roo

Last but not least is Chetumal. This isn’t actually in the Riviera Maya, but rather the Costa Maya which starts at the south of Tulum and ends at the border with Belize. Just at the border lays Chetumal, the capital city of the state of Quintana Roo. While it is located a four-hour drive from the Cancun International Airport, it has become a hotspot for foreign retirees.

The city is very quiet and its proximity to Belize has made it popular amongst retirees that are often searching for scuba diving and fishing opportunities beyond the Mexican border. Chetumal has grown in retirement opportunities due to its excellent medical treatment facilities. Because it is a city it has plenty of supermarkets, banks, and activities to engage in.

When you think of retirement in the Riviera Maya, you should think of endless opportunities and a comfortable lifestyle. There are thousands of available real estate projects throughout. Check them out and start planning your paradise retirement today.

Benefits of Living in Mexico

Expats Rank Mexico 1st Place for Personal Happiness

Expats in Mexico are the happiest people in the world, according to a recent InterNations survey. They surveyed over 18,000 expats from 163 countries, taking into consideration different factors of moving and living abroad. Mexico ranked first – out of 68 countries – for personal happiness. It ranked second for leisure, ease of settling in and cost of living. Thanks to the investments being made in safety and quality of life in the Yucatan Peninsula, many foreigners continue choosing it as their perfect retirement destination. Others find it to be ideal as a snowbird destination.

Perfect Retirement: Settling in is Easy in Mexico

Retiring to Mexico

According to other studies, 39% of expats living in Mexico are, in fact, retirees. Out of all expats in Mexico 20% have said that they moved down here for the weather and quality of life. No wonder it ranked second for leisure, ease of settling in and cost of living. 85% of the expats mentioned that settling down in Mexico was really easy. They mentioned the ease with which the local culture has made them feel at home. In fact, if you compare cities such as Sarasota to Playa del Carmen you will notice that it is over 50% more affordable to live in Mexico than it is to retire in the United States.

Another aspect of the survey that made Mexico stand out was the friendliness of the Mexican people. 64% of those surveyed said that Mexicans are some of the friendliest people they’ve encountered. Because of this, it ranks first in friendliness. Over half of them reported that the local’s attitude towards foreigners is very friendly, which is why making friends in Mexico is easy. And the language barrier is no problem. In fact, 96% of them reported that they already speak Spanish to some level.

Expats are Happy with the Financial Benefits of Living in Mexico

But it is probably the financial benefits of moving to Mexico that is the driving force of retirees wanting to move down here. The survey revealed Mexico to be second in cost of living and third in the personal finance index. Actually, 17% of expats in Mexico reported that they have more money than they need.

Overall, Mexico remains a top-of-mind retirement destination for many reasons. But personal happiness is perhaps the most important one. That is why 88% of expats surveyed said they were quite satisfied with their lives in Mexico placing it in fourth place in the overall ranking. And the truth is, that purchasing a retirement home in Mexico is really simple. With so many Mexico real estate options available, it also comes as no surprise that people are choosing this beautiful place to spend their winters and benefit from their home the rest of the year.

A Quick Guide to a Mexican Golfing Retirement

A Quick Guide to a Mexican Golfing Retirement is a contribution by Chrissy Jones.

With some of the best all-inclusive golf resorts in the world, it’s natural to assume that Mexico takes its golfing seriously. With 11 of these courses based in Cancun alone, it’s a haven for the golfing enthusiasts. The real estate market also loves golf courses. Because of this, they add a significant amount of value to the properties in the area. For retirees, good properties and plenty of golfing is the perfect combination. Mexico offers some of the best retirement spots, now with the added advantage of including a swing at golf.

Golfing Paradise at Baja and Las Palomas

Mexico is not necessarily known for its golfing. But an increased focus in the sport has resulted in two of the top ten golf courses in Latin America to be in Mexico. Jack Nicklaus designed the first, Cabo del Sol in Baja. At 36 holes, this is not a course to be trifled with. The second is designed by Forrest Richardson and is based in Las Palomas. This course features 18 holes, which is perfect for a quick round on a Sunday. Both Baja and las Palomas offer retirees the ideal mix of real estate to keep their purses and comfort levels satisfied.

No Need to be a Pro

Bahia Principe Golf Course

Retirees who wish to take up golf as a hobby after retirement don’t need to worry about learning the perfect swing or putt. Plenty of beginners are retirees. In fact, many of the gated estates and resorts offer beginner golfing to their residents. This is a trump card on the real estate front. You can find many of these residences in the Riviera Maya, such as this one in Bahia Principe. Retirees don’t have to worry about starting out their golfing hobby in retirement, as many of them do. This is because many retirees never had the opportunity to take up a hobby before due to lack of time. Residents can request golfing lessons at the local golf courses. Participants can decide when they’re ready to go out on their own.

Luxury is Part of the Package

From the Tom Fazio signature golf course in Chileno Bay to the Jim McLean Golf School at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, luxury and golf go hand in hand. Sprawling residential resorts that offer more than just great views are the ideal location. Here, retirees can rest their wandering feet on Mexican soil. These destinations offer other spoils such as spa access and exclusive outdoor activities, as well. For retirees, this all comes at affordable prices and the temperate weather is a bonus.

From the sprawling beaches that provide the perfect backdrop to a great day’s golfing, to world-class accommodation, retiring in Mexico is one for the young at heart. With fresh greens and crisp lawns, there has never been a better time to take up golf.

Retiring to Mexico: The Best Choice for You

When you’re thinking of your retirement, there are many things to consider. Amongst those, is the ease with which you will be able to move around. This means actually living in a city that is relaxing, close to everything, and where transportation is at hand. A place that requires you to drive everywhere most likely means traffic, and nobody wants to deal with such things during their retirement. It’s your turn to sit back, relax and enjoy. That is why retiring to Mexico has so many benefits. In fact, it is one of the top destinations in the country for Americans and Canadians to spend their golden years.

There are many benefits to retiring in places such as Playa del Carmen. Not only do the big expat communities help each other out constantly, but the quality of life is impressive. Walking everywhere is easy, everything is nearby, there are plenty of things to do, and there is also a great infrastructure.

Medical Assistance

Medical Tourism

One of the perks of retiring to the Riviera Maya is its top-notch medical industry. Many English-speaking professionals work here and cater to the well-being of American and Canadian expats. Retiring to Mexico means having the best possible medical care at hand with many private clinics and dentist’s offices available.

Money Goes A Long Way

The Mexican peso is constantly fluctuating and the dollar gains more and more strength against it. While that may be bad news for our Mexican friends, it is a great opportunity for Americans and Canadians. Dollars will go a long way here not only because of its value but because living in Mexico is very cheap in comparison to other countries. Not only when it comes to real estate but also with simple things such as a meal out in a restaurant, or grocery shopping and even transportation.

Retiring to Mexico Increases Quality of Life

The Riviera Maya is a friendly and welcoming place. It is home to a close-knit community that will help you find anything or recommend places to visit. Many people will also willingly volunteer to help you in translating documents, instructions, or anything else you may need. But because Mexicans are so friendly and open to foreigners, the quality of life is much better, too. Friends are found around every corner. Great food is served in every restaurant. Beers and cocktails flow by the beach nonstop. Activities to do include swimming, snorkeling, diving, yoga, fishing, and many others that keep everyone young at heart.

Moving Around in Mexico

If for some reason you decide to use a vehicle, there are many trusted rental cars that offer incredibly low prices in comparison the USA. Renting a car to pick friends up at the airport, or to get around is an easy and affordable process. However, the transit system (bus and colectivos) are very reliable, timely and good. There are a few terminals scattered around the Riviera Maya that will take you anywhere and bring you back.

Year-Round Warm Weather

The weather in the Riviera Maya is very consistent with the sun always shining and warm temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature is 28°C, while it can fluctuate anywhere between 22°C and 36°C. The weather makes it a great place to retire due to the amount of activities one can enjoy under the sun.

All in all, there is no reason to avoid retiring to Mexico. It is affordable, fun, friendly, beautiful, and offers a great deal of Americanized standards that you are used to. Shopping is easy and cheap and moving around either driving or in public transportation is no hard feat. Mexico is definitely the number one choice for you to retire.

5 Reasons to Retire to Mexico

5 Reasons to Retire to Mexico is a contribution by Crystal Tost from Re/Max.

When trying to decide on the right country for retirement, you will find that there are many options available. Many countries can dispute the pros of retiring there. However, there are several reasons why many Canadians and Americans choose to retire to Mexico. In fact, here are five great reasons to call Mexico home after retiring.

Proximity

For those who currently reside in Canada and the United States, Mexico is a great retirement destination due to proximity. As part of North America, Mexico can easily be reached by car from any country. Moreover, flight routes are available between major destinations between the United States and Canada and Mexico, such as Cancun. Not only does this help to make the move easier, but it also makes it easier to travel back and forth to your home country to visit relatives and friends.

Cost of Living

Everything from real estate to groceries is cheaper in Mexico when compared to Canada and the United States. This means you can afford to purchase more luxurious accommodations while also enjoying the lifestyle you seek. Or, if you simply want to maintain your current lifestyle while making your dollars stretch further, living in Mexico can help make it happen. In addition, due to the country’s strong tourist economy, you can easily rent out your retirement property if you decide to head back to your home country for an extended stay.

Language and Culture

While Spanish and several native languages are the official languages of Mexico, many residents speak English, too. This is particularly true in the service industry and in those areas that are popular amongst tourist and expats such as Playa del Carmen. This can make the process of moving to the country, purchasing real estate and navigating through the country once becoming a resident a whole lot easier.

Of course, if you want to enjoy a wonderful cultural experience, you can also very easily choose a location that will allow you to submerge yourself entirely in the Mexican culture. The government system is similar to that in the United States and Canada, too. Couple that with the diversification of products and goods, the cultural experience is not too vastly different from what you are used to.

Healthcare

While the quality of healthcare provided will vary from one location to the next, healthcare standards are generally very high in Mexico. This is particularly true in the bigger towns and cities that are popular retirement locations. Here you can typically find doctors, dentists, hospitals and specialty medical providers. Not only do they offer high-quality services, they also do so at a fraction of the price you would pay back home. If that’s not enough to convince you, many of them also offer their services in English.

Lifestyle

With its wide range of topography and climates, you can very easily live whatever type of lifestyle you desire. Mexico is conductive to enjoying an active, outdoor lifestyle. But you can also enjoy living life at a leisurely pace. After all, the country has a laid-back vibe and warm and welcoming citizens. For those who want to retire in the Riviera Maya, they’re in for an amazing laidback lifestyle. Hit the beach every day and take a stroll amongst the lively coastal towns it offers.

Retire to Mexico Today

These are just five reasons to consider Mexico your retirement home. Spend those golden years in this wonderfully cultural country. Places such as the Riviera Maya are great expat retirement hubs. These are just a few of the many reasons almost 2 million Americans call Mexico home. If you want to spend your golden years sipping margaritas by the beach in a year-long warm climate, you should definitely retire to Mexico.

Top 3 Neighborhoods to Retire in Playa del Carmen

You are coming up on those well-deserved golden years and have decided to retire to the beautiful beach town of Playa del Carmen. That’s an excellent decision. Retirement south of the border isn’t only more affordable, but also gives you a higher quality of life. Strolls down the beach, delicious lunches and dinners, the ability to travel to amazing destinations that are just a car ride away. Thus, Playa del Carmen is definitely the perfect place to retire to.

But, given that there are so many neighborhoods in the area, it feels almost impossible to pick the right one. We have been helping clients find their perfect home in Playa del Carmen for over a decade, and we’ve certainly picked up insider knowledge of which neighborhoods consistently attract buyers. Property in these three best-selling areas might have a more significant initial cost, but the value of your property will increase at a faster rate. And if you’re a snowbird retiree, you can always benefit from renting out your property when you’re up north.

We have chosen these three neighborhoods as the best ones to retire to in Playa del Carmen.

RETIRE TO A PRIVATE BEACH Enclave

Playacar Entrance

One of the most popular areas in Playa del Carmen, and where many expats live, is Playacar. This beautiful gated community has a professional golf course, access to the beach, and plenty of commercial zones. There is really no reason to leave the area. The subdivision is safe and walkable. The best part is that its main entrance leads into the world-famous Fifth Avenue. There, you will find an array of amazing restaurants, shops, bars, and much more.

The Real Estate Engine of the City

Fifth Avenue

Little Italy is the beating heart of Playa del Carmen. And it is one of the best-selling neighborhoods in the city. It is an ideal place for walking around everywhere, especially since it is lined with mature trees offering a breezy shade. Those looking to make the most of the city should consider this area. It is near the beach and surrounds Fifth Avenue. Besides, who would refuse living in an area lined with Italian restaurants?

El Centro of Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen View

The Downtown area of Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular ones, as it is close to everything. From supermarkets to medical centers, to the most visited touristic areas, you will find it all here. It is a great compromise between convenience and affordability. Downtown is an exciting location to explore Mexican culture and mingle with the locals and there are plenty of excellent available properties around.

Keep in mind that there is no such thing as the perfect area to live in. Therefore, options depend on your budget, lifestyle and wish list. Visiting the neighborhoods at different times and talking to local expats is a great way to learn about the pros and cons of each neighborhood. Above all, you need the find the right fit for YOU.

You can also get in touch with our Buyers’ Representatives to learn about available real estate options in Playa del Carmen and for further information on each neighborhood.

And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!

A romantic getaway to Holbox Island!

A romantic getaway to Holbox Island: After all the Christmas festivities in Mexico, many people can feel pretty drained. Let me tell you, between kids activity’s, parties and having family in town, one could need a vacation from their vacation.

Living in the Mayan Riviera gives us a wide variety of romantic little known spots to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and our daily responsibilities: Tulum, Bacalar and Holbox, just to mention some!

We had been in Holbox many times, it’s a perfect relaxing, romance getaway!

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About Holbox:

Holbox is a small island located in the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Famous for being a whale shark sanctuary, this island is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a tranquil setting to enjoy the beach.

Holbox is 26 miles long and about 1 mile wide, and it offers pristine beaches with white coral sand. The island is located within the Yum Balam Natural Reserve, as a result, the marine life of the island is diverse and abundant: from whale sharks, dolphins, lobsters as well as octopus, stingrays and sea turtles, just to name a few.

How to Get There:

To get to Holbox, first you need to get to the town of Chiquila. You can drive which will take about two hours from Cancun or you can take a 20 minute plane ride. Also, there is a new toll road from Playa del Carmen, but there is also public transportation available.

Once you reach the town of Chiquila, you need to find a safe parking spot for your car and then take a boat or ferry to Isla Holbox. A big boat will charge around 40 pesos per person for a 25 minutes trip to the island, if they are not available you can hire a local fisherman and pay about 250 pesos per boat (for 6 people and their bags).

Attractions:

Its shallow, turquoise waters allow people of all ages and abilities to swim at ease; ideal for snorkeling or paddle boarding. Holbox is also the ideal place to learn or practice kitesurfing, as there is always a strong breeze.

During the months of June to September, Holbox is host to the largest congregation of whale sharks: the largest known fish. These majestic creatures, which can grow up to 15 meters, come every year to feed on plankton. Because of its peaceful nature, you can swim alongside these gentle giants and observe them in their natural habitat. Swimming with whale sharks is an unforgettable experience.

Sport fishing and fly fishing is a popular activity, the ocean is full of fish such as: bonefish, barracuda, snapper, pompano and mackerel, among others. Bird watching is another popular activity, where you will be able to see: flamingos, white and brown pelicans, cormorants, reddish egrets, roseate spoonbills and herons.

There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Holbox like horseback riding, diving, kayaking through the mangroves, kitesurf, or swim in Yalahau.

Romantic Getaways:

Here are two romantic getaway packages I found in Holbox:

Sweet Escape in Hotel Casa Las Tortugas

holboxcasalastortugas.com

Whether you are celebrating a wedding anniversary, a special birthday or an engagement, this Sweet Escape package is a perfect way to say ‘I love you’. This romantic retreat includes a surprise candle-lit dinner on the beach and some of their best spa treatments.

This Package includes:

  • Three nights in a Standard room
  • Half-board for two people (breakfast and lunch)
  • Spa package for two people (Honeymoon package)
  • Romantic dinner on the beach for two people

For only $1175 USD*

*Room upgrade on request.

*Transfer on request.

 photo CasalasTortugas_zps3fe27ebc.jpg

Romantic Escape at Casa Sandra

casasandra.com

Casa Sandra is a very romantic and intimate home, conceived with art, music and coziness in mind, where every detail is created with love. This boutique hotel provides personalized service and a friendly atmosphere, allowing loved ones can connect more deeply.

This package includes:

  • Three nights’ accommodation with upgrades
  • Daily American breakfast (including one room service per stay)
  • Romantic amenities in your room
  • One hour massage per guest
  • Romantic dinner on the beach with personalized service, a bottle of wine and a special menu
  • Evening cocktails and seasonal fruit platter, one per stay
  • One hour daily golf cart rental
  • Early check-in and late check-out
  • Ground transfer and private plane, one-way each

For Only $2645 USD*

*10% Discount for locals with State issued ID

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If you are looking for an ideal romantic getaway, do not search any further than Holbox! Holbox is the ideal destination for of those looking to rekindle the spark or just recharge. Let the professionals pamper you and your significant other and enjoy everything Holbox has to offer.

Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything Riviera Maya, we thrive to offer our readers the best possible information. We have also helped thousands of clients find their dream home in Mexico. Live the life, Live in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Living in Akumal Interview – LocoGringo’s Kay Walten!

We were honored to get the chance to sit down and chat with Kay Walten, the founder of the well-known website locogringo.com which is geared towards providing private vacation rentals and knowledge for travelers.  Kay Walten, originally from Buffalo, New York, has been living in Akumal and in the Riviera Maya for 21 years now which makes her a very reputable source for expat related information, and true advisor for travelers coming to the Riviera Maya.

Kay moved to the Riviera Maya in 1992 to explore the underground cenotes and caves. Kay and her now husband, Gary Walten, ran dive tours and eventually opened up a dive shop until starting Locogringo in 1996.

About Locogringo.com!

Locogringo.com provides vacation rentals by private owners wishing to rent out their home.  Through many years of service, Kay and her husband have become one of the most credible sources for vacation rentals and area advice.

Why is she so good at it?  Because she loves living in Akumal, and holds a dear passion for the Riviera Maya; which she has watched grow and expand over the last 21 years.  What was once an area with not so many people has become a world renowned vacation destination, retirement paradise and an investor’s dream.

American Conveniences!

Over the years the Riviera Maya has grown to satisfy many American style conveniences.  These days culture shock is not so deep in the Riviera Maya. Many people speak English; you can find familiar products or brands and even shop at the same stores you are used to shopping at!

Kays thoughts about safety in the Riviera Maya!

Kay would like to send the message that the Riviera Maya is safe!  After 20 years of living in Akumal Mexico, she has only experienced great things and friendly people. Kay Quotes “It’s really a joyful area to live in”.

How does Kay feel about buying property in the Riviera Maya?

As a home owner in Akumal, Kay feels that the real estate buying process in Mexico is getting easier and easier.  There are many people coming to retire and buy property!  The advice that she gives, is to work with a reputable realtor in Mexico, pay close attention to all the paperwork, and of course, to be smart and use common sense!

In this Top Mexico Real Estate video Kay tells us about life in the Riviera Maya and some of the wonderful experiences she has had living in Akumal all these years!  Watch the video for a full interview!

Living in Puerto Vallarta – Beauty, Charm and Romance Part of an Everyday Life!

 

Puerto Vallarta is a Top destination for tourists who love relaxing, golf, scuba diving, adventures and even surfing!  But that is not all!  It is also one of the top expat and retirement destinations for Americans and Canadians.  There are more and more expats living in in Puerto Vallarta every year!

So what does Puerto Vallarta have to offer that is making people want to leave their own country to call Puerto Vallarta home?

Puerto Vallarta is a beach town with miles of charm and beauty.  The streets of this Colonial and historical backdrop are paved with Cobblestone giving a simple and traditional feel.  !  I should also mention that service and hospitality in Puerto Vallarta are quite amazing since the local people are so welcoming and inviting.

Beautiful Beaches

Besides all of the colonial, in-town, charm that Puerto Vallarta holds we must not forget that the beaches are one of the main attractions for this coastline town!  Among the most popular area beaches are Los Muertos Beach, Oro Beach and Playa Sayulita.

Surfs up! If you love hitting the waves Mismaloya Beach, about 45 minutes away from Puerto Vallarta center is a prime spot for surfing.

Things to see and do

 
Puerto Vallarta is for anyone!  Enjoy a nice day of golf on some of the most prestige golf courses, dive deep into the sea to explore underwater life, take a leisurely kayaking ride, go sailing, snorkel and go horseback riding!   If you are thinking of tying the good old knot, Puerto Vallarta is also a number one romantic wedding destination!

Puerto Vallarta in the Movies!

Did you know that Puerto Vallarta was the onsite destination for some well-known popular movies and shows, such as “The love boat” and “Night at the Iguana” starring Jim Burton?  Jim Burton and Elizabeth Taylor even bought a home in Puerto Vallarta which ignited the same idea for many other expatriates from all over!

A special little secret!

Have you ever head of Marietas Island before?  Maybe not!  But I am here to tell you that this special and unique Island is a must see, and do, in the area!  Take a sailboat tour and head out to one of the most gorgeous and interesting retreats in the area, even in the world, with beautiful crystal water and a virgin beach that is surrounded by a cave like opening.  It is just incredible!  A place to clear you head and escape from every sign of reality!

Love is in the air!

In general, Mexico is full of love and romance.  You should never be surprised to see hand holding, nuzzling or public displays of affection!  One of the well-known areas of Puerto Vallarta is the romantic zone!  A simple quaint little part of town that just lets you be free and without worry!  It’s all about charm in this little village.  Quiet beaches, little cafés and restaurants and an authentic Mexican feel! Perfect area for a romantic walk with your other half!

Puerto Vallarta is SAFE!

[I always like to remind people that Mexico is indeed a safe country to visit.  But ding ding ding, the statistics are in folks!  Mexico has actually some of the lowest numbers in statistics when looking at the numbers compared to the United States, Canada, Australia, some parts of Europe, south Africa, Honduras, Chile, Peru, and the United Kingdom!

So relax, in Puerto Vallarta México!  If you are poking at the possibility of living or retiring in Puerto Vallarta contact a reliable and trusted Mexico real estate agent who can help you through the process of buying your dream home!