Ajijic & Chapala, Mexico: Is It Overrated?

The Lake Chapala and Ajijic area of Mexico has a huge community of retired expats. Why do so many foreigners come to Lake Chapala? This video will tell you everything you want to know about Lake Chapala and Ajijic, Mexico. We'll discuss the cost of living, community, food, transportation, health care, the pros and cons of living here, and many other aspects about living in Ajijic, Chapala, and Jocotepec in Mexico. We'll also tell you if we think the Lake Chapala area of Mexico is overrated or if it really does live up to the hype.
Link to the website for our apartment in Ajijic:
la-mision.net
More information about Ajijic and Chapala:
Jerry Brown Travels
/ @jerrybrowntravels
Thumbnail credit:
Skip DeRosier
travelrefocused.com/
Music Credit
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Lipsia by Sapajou / sapajoubeats
Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: bit.ly/-lipsia
Music promoted by Audio Library • Lipsia - Sapajou (No C...
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[@JerryBrownTravels]

Jerry Brown here with Jerry Brown travels Lori here we just watched your video very good a lot of good information I enjoyed the layout of the video and the editing very professional. Thank you for the referral we enjoyed our time with you. Happy trails to you until we meet again.

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you very much Jerry and Lori. We also enjoyed our time with you and wish you the best!

[@javelinaflips-annie5000]

Love you guys ❤️

[@Eva-li2pe]

Thank you jerry

[@Designer_TopG]

@@snailtravelers Why the name snail travelers? Thank you

[@russhuber3641]

"Everything" in 2 months here? We are here 10 years and still learning! We love our home.

[@snailtravelers]

Yes, I probably should have said "everything we have learned", not "everything there is to know". How wonderful that you have lived in the area for 10 years! Thank you for your feedback.

[@MsSpecialK29]

Thanks for this great video on Lake Chapala! I've had a home in San Juan Cosala (just next door to West Ajijic) since 2018 and am now in the process of moving out full time (or at least much "longer" time.) I first visited with friends in 2014, bought in 2018 and rented it out for many years before finally making the leap. It is indeed a Pueblo Mágico (or a series of pueblos) that is truly serene, friendly and so naturally lush and beautiful. The lake (considered sacred by many) keeps everything a wonderful temp all year round and being the largest Lake in Mexico is truly spectacular visually also. Many artists, writers and bohemians have been drawn here since the 1920s and there is a vibrant and talented arts scene as well as spiritual seekers of all kinds. It's also a very safe and tolerant community for people of many different cultures/lifestyles which is important to some because not all areas of Mexico are safe that way. People seem to pretty peacefully co-exist. The area is also a spa/resort town for Mexicans in the surrounding areas so it is wonderfully eclectic in that way. As for the food, you could probably eat out 2 months straight and not repeat there is so much good food (restaurants & street food.) Historically it has definitely catered to the older expat set. I am under 50 and it is still definitely a more mellow/ mature vibe but there are definitely more younger folks now and more contemporary elements creeping in because it has turned into a highly desirable bedroom community of Guadalajara. I was last there in November 2021 and couldn't believe how crowded it is, more and more folks just seem to be coming! The real estate and rents have gone way up (that mirrors what's happening with prices in the U.S.) but you certainly get more bang for your buck for the real estate as well and most services and food, etc. are still cheaper. (Except gas.) For people interested in buying, it is a cash market but the benefits are usually a much nicer home for the $230K - $300K price point and you will save a LOT on property taxes which will likely be 1/10 of what they are in the States or Canada. $150 annually compared to $1,500, $5,000 or even $10K and up. Again, depends where you're coming from. On the plus side I had no problem renting my place & making good rent which is nice & may not always happen in more out of the way places. If you want to try having an investment property in Mexico, the north shore of Lake Chapala is a relatively secure place to try it because it's fee simple, there is quite a demand and also a good infrastructure (property management/realty services, etc.) to support it. Of course, as some others have suggested, spend some time there first and do your due diligence. If you are more DIY & adventurous, there are always better deals to explore and be had & that is what's wonderful about Mexico! Buying at the Lake is more expensive but it is buying into more of an established infrastructure, so to speak. Personally, with how high the market is right now, I would watch & wait but, generally, it's a gentle place to land and figure things out from there. Being an expat, you will have to put yourself out there a bit to find activities & new friends etc but there are a lot of resources and plenty to do. I know several folks who've started small businesses that do quite well. If you are enterprising, there is opportunity. ;) You can get by without a lot of Spanish but of course, the more effort you put in, the more you get out of it! It is a fun community that is friendly and people oriented which is a nice change. People are active but in a lovely and unhurried way. I would definitely recommend having a vehicle because I love to roam around and explore & I would get bored without a car. Summer is the time when a lot of folks travel or go to the beach, etc. Being Centrally located in Mex, you can get anywhere fairly quickly and inexpensively. For instance, with an airline like Volaris, today you can get a $60 nonstop flight to Cancun/Riviera Maya from Guadalajara airport which is just a straight shot 35 minutes north. It's a 2 hour 39 minute flight to the Caribbean. If you wanted to hop a flight in the other direction to Los Cabos next week, there are some flights for under $40 USD. Flight is 1 hour and 34 minutes! If you prefer to drive, it's about 5 hours to Puerto Vallarta/Bucerias on the toll road and a little less going East to San Miguel de Allende for an artsy weekend. Just like anywhere, it's nice to change it up, but I miss my house & the Lake so much. Just can't wait to get back. Was really fun to see footage of all the places I know as well as some things I had no idea about! A "sleepy" special place I hope never changes. ;)

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you so much for this information. This is exactly the type of comment we like to see on our videos because it is very helpful to others who want to know more. Thanks again!

[@cryptochurch3310]

Thank you for this excellent comment. I cruised through last week and stayed one night in Jocopetec during the Festival of the Magi. Tomorrow I will spend a day in Chapala. So far, seems over-rated by KZbinrs but I keep digging. This vid and your comment were the most honest and complete.

[@geraldineh.5093]

Well Done! Thanks for sharing this info, very helpful.

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you!

[@travelrefocused]

Another great video. You continue your knack for providing a lot of information into an entertaining and relatively short video. I feel like I'm noticing incremental improvements with each new video. Keep up the good work.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks so much! And thanks again for the thumbnail photo.

[@viok2932]

Wow, have been quite a while but well worth the wait! Besides being informative, is a very well produced vlog!

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you so much, as always!

[@charliereed7849]

we loved living there for almost 2 years. Had to come back to the states for family reasons but would love to get back there. We lived in two places and both were nice. Loved the markets and the friends we made.

[@snailtravelers]

How wonderful to live there for two years! We made some great friends there too and also would love to go back and visit.

[@cindyjugglegoddess7821]

Thank you for the beautiful quality of this video. I have watched many, many travel videos about Central and South America and south east Asia, and what you have done here is a step above! I’m reconsidering slow travel starting in Mexico, so very happy to find your channel. Subscribed!

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you very much for this really nice comment. I'm glad you enjoyed the videos and that you subscribed. Thanks again!

[@davidsmythe580]

Well done another good video 👏

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you very much!

[@jandoherty5299]

This is a very nice informative video. I totally appreciate it. I also love Jerry Brown travels. I’ve learned a lot of good things about Mexico through his website.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for watching!

[@MarquiMarie]

This was very informative thanks.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for the nice comment.

[@snippetshub]

Love your travel videos! Thanks for sharing all the experiences. I'd like to suggest that you use a camera that has a better image stabilizer. Have a good day, wherever you are at the moment!

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for the tips, and thanks for watching! I am working on improving the quality of the footage for the videos.

[@wellbetogo]

Such a great video, my first one to watch! Just subscribed and am watching all your Mexico videos now .. I really appreciate your positive perspective making Mexico more accessible .. I'm just getting started on my Mexico living adventures in Guadalajara .. and these videos make me feel motivated and optimistic about exploring the country I spent childhoods in. Thank you & happy travels!

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you so much for this very nice comment!

[@yeshuaismyredeemer]

Really enjoyed your video, one of the best out there explaining chapala area. Thanks for your honest opinion. Be safe and God bless.

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you!

[@khooboohooi7865]

Great video.. Keep it up...♥️ from West Malaysia.. November 2021..Hope to hear from both of u in any part of east & west Malaysia when covid is over...See u soon & welcome...

[@MSupreme7]

Grew up impoverished here in the earliest years of my childhood. My parents brought me to the U.S in the early 2000s and today I'm a stock broker on wallstreet. My abuelito is very proud. Maybe I'll see him in your video :)

[@snailtravelers]

Congratulations on your success, and thanks for watching our video!

[@Yasin_Affandi]

Thanks for this wonderful video n thanks for showing Lake Chapala in Mexico.

[@Yasin_Affandi]

Before u guys visited Malaysia, was it an underrated or overrated destination?

[@snailtravelers]

We think Malaysia is underrated. Malaysia has so much beauty and friendliness. Mexico has these things too, but Malaysia has a stronger place in our hearts.

[@Yasin_Affandi]

@@snailtravelers Wonderful. I'm really glad to hear that u guys had lovely time in Malaysia, even during d lockdown. Enjoy your travelling n exploration in Mexico. 😁

[@chronicillz1879]

Great video thank you

[@snailtravelers]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ArnoldPranks]

Been following you since Malaysia! (and because of it, my favorite country to visit). Lake Chapala, Mexico seems super picturesque and serene. I'm surprised I've never heard of it.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for following us and for your comment!

[@BillGreenAZ]

Subscribed! I love watching "Jerry Brown Travels" with his wife Lori.

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you! We enjoy Jerry Brown's videos too.

[@erinaustin9968]

Ooo! Mexican manners! So interested! Missed seeing your videos the last couple weeks.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks, as always, Erin!

[@missmayflower]

Good quality, well organized video. Thanks. To be fair, two months in the Covid era does not give a full picture of why so many people moved there, with so many things closed. There is normally a lot to do and wonderful people to meet. To me, pre-Covid, it was like summer camp for adults with hiking clubs, golf courses, pickle ball, tennis and ping-pong clubs, horseback riding, cycling, motorcycle enthusiast groups, boating, live music in multiple venues any day of the week, classes in arts, crafts and Spanish, multiple hot springs, affordable spas, aestheticians, hairdressers and dentists, art galleries and murals everywhere, three live theatres, two cinemas, restaurants with cuisine from countries all around the world or affordable taco stands, festivals, parades, charity work to participate in, day trips to dozens of interesting places, gyms, yoga, outdoor fitness and Zumba, places to go dancing, concerts, folkloric/cultural displays and activities, educational talks, birdwatchers, gardeners and on and on. Though expensive for Mexico, prices are half of what people are used to in USA, Canada and Europe.

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you!

[@nsanenthembrane]

Hi missmay great description of what lake chapala has to offer during normal times. I like a lot of what I research about Mexico but do you have any opinions on portugal as a retirement place? It also seems like a nice option but as you said in another comment Mexico seems more feasible due to proximity to the US and ability to cross the border and use Medicare

[@missmayflower]

@@nsanenthembrane No opinion. I’ve never been. But lots of people have made good KZbin videos about it. Portugal seems to appeal to a younger demographic of North Americans and all ages of Brits due to the proximity to home for them. Brexit has thrown a wrench into it, though. Looks like a good climate and reasonable cost.

[@MsSpecialK29]

@@nsanenthembrane I know Portugal is absolutely beautiful and supposedly very low crime etc. I don't know about the costs. The issues are what you mention above about travel distances which, after what has gone on over the last 2 years, could become quite difficult to have a home (or 2nd home) all the way in Europe. Totally personal decision. If you live on the East Coast or have family in Europe, it could be a better option. I live in the American Southwest with family in Southern California and was able to literally throw a bag and my dog in my truck & drive across the border and still get to my home. When I have to come back & forth (which I do for family and business things) I can still get in my car and drive. Took 3 days but...that is a HUGE difference to me. Same with my household goods move. It was do-able. The flights to Guadalajara are also pretty inexpensive from where I am so for me, access to the Lake is pretty easy.

[@kennkid9912]

Is there a beer garden on the lake in CH. or AJ ? My wifes family visited there often 60 odd years Ago.THey lived in GUAd. She would like to know. Kids played in the grass in front and the adults drank and chatted.

[@brianleonard6885]

Fabulous 👌

[@snailtravelers]

Thank You

[@sophiehawkins7178]

Thanks for the very helpful video. Im currently in Queretaro and thinking of coming to lake chapala. I’m here on a work visa and want to start up my Thai Massage business. Can you recommend a good area for me to live and work? Is there much scope for a massage specialist there in your opinion? Hoping to get settled somewhere soon. Been loving the people in queretaro but business is slow so far and I’m really missing my work! I’d appreciate any tips you might have!

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for watching our video! If your massage business will mostly cater to retired expats, then I think Ajijic would be a better (but also more expensive) area compared to Chapala because Chapala has a higher concentration of locals while Ajijic has a higher concentration of expats. Another location you might want to consider is San Antonio because it's between Ajijic and Chapala and you might be able to attract clients from both of those places. There are also several medical offices in San Antonio as well. Most importantly, I would suggest going to visit the area and talk to the people who live there. I hope that helps!

[@RotaryTeamVincent]

Good job.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks!

[@stephenacs]

I lived there for 7 months, renting a lovely home in Villa Nova above the Carretera. March-May can be hot, dry and unpleasant. Rains bring almost tropical greenery to the hills surrounding. Weather overall is wonderful. The markets are great, but the traffic is not. Nor are the stray dogs which tore at my heart. I had a car and would recommend buying one. So many good things about the area, but for me, I missed some of the conveniences of the U.S. so relocated back to Tucson where I attended college. I still have many friends there, though, and they have acclimated beautifully to the area.

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this! This is the type of comment I love to see for our videos because it is helpful to others who want to know more about this part of the world. Thanks for your contribution!

[@user-xxxyxyx]

When you were saying electronics, how about Laptop, and phones? Can you buy a MacBook at local? Or has to be in big city like Guadalajara? How about online shopping, tried Amazon Mexico, how is the shipping and receiving packages there?

[@snailtravelers]

Good questions - there are a few electronics stores around the Lake Chapala area that sell laptops and phones, but they are small. There are many more choices in Guadalajara. There is a laptop repair store in Chapala where I got my laptop serviced. We didn't use Amazon Mexico, but we had neighbors who shop on Amazon who said the prices are higher and the selection lower compared to Amazon in the U.S.

[@Wyman642]

Hi, what do you use tap water for? Not drinking right? Can you cook with it?

[@snailtravelers]

We used tap water for cleaning the dishes, laundry, showering, etc. We used filtered water for cleaning fruits and vegetables, and for cooking. We got sick a few times in Mexico, possibly due to contaminated water.

[@gladysnajar2254]

I love all of Lake Chapala 🇲🇽♥️🌺🍃🌺

[@snailtravelers]

Absolutely! Thanks for watching.

[@kennkid9912]

Is there still a beer garden down on the Lake In C or AJ? My wifes family went there in the 1950/s.. The adults drank beer and the Kids played in the grass yard in front toward the LAke.

[@snailtravelers]

Hmmm, not sure if the beer garden is still there. It would be interesting to compare Ajijic between now and the 1950s when your wife's family was there. I would guess it has changed a lot!

[@kennkid9912]

@@snailtravelers Well it was similar in that lots of expats lived there then. My wife's friend had a house in C or Aj, she can't remember which. They were doing a sleepover at that house, as little girls. The parents had gone out for the night. The girls decided to sneak out , and get an ice cream . In Mexico at that time, girls were not let loose at night unaccompanied by an adult. Cats away, mice will play. They walked down toward the ice cream stand. Not many people were around. Suddenly two men appeared and started shooting at each other,. like in the Wild West, a faceoff. She called it a duel. The girls really didnt know what was going on and they ran back to the house. Climbed over the wall around it and got in. Their big worry was that they would get caught wandering around at night. in those days she lived in Guadalajara on Vallarta, near the Country Club. This is now called midtown and is solidly built up. . When she lived there, the street ended in fields. Her neighbor kept horses, and they used to ride them across the fields to the canyons, barrancas? Zapopan was a small place. Guad had 500,000 people. This was like 60 odd years ago. We plan on visiting in the near future. Have a good day.

[@ericdrews5050]

Yes, Chile Verde, I’ll be there tomorrow for lunch. I’m very happy with my new life in San Antonio

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for watching! We went to Chile Verde many times during our time in Ajijic. I see you have some videos about Chile Verde on your channel. We have just subscribed and look forward to following your videos.

[@ericdrews5050]

@@snailtravelers thank you so much. I’m going for the albóndigas meatball soup tomorrow. This restaurant served great authentic Mexican food, a most for anyone coming to Ajijic.

[@dry5555]

Thanks for the video. That German chocolate cake looked delicious! :-) Btw...Mexico or Malaysia?

[@snailtravelers]

We like both, but if we had to chose one we would choose Malaysia. We like visiting Mexico but we're not sure we would want to live in Mexico. But we would love in live in Malaysia!

[@dry5555]

@@snailtravelers Me too! :-)

[@missmayflower]

Most people, especially retirees, choose Mexico for its proximity to USA for visiting their family or going to see a doctor using Medicare. Also, it’s a lot cheaper and quicker to get there. You can get any kind of weather or landscape you prefer in Mexico (beach, hot humid jungle, to desert to ranch land), whereas Malaysia is uniformly tropical.

[@prime8nate]

The weather in Mexican highlands areas like Ajijic is superior to Malaysia. Arguably the best in the world. Unless you like hot and humid I guess.

[@mtngrl5859]

@@prime8nate Also, the problem with Malaysia is their inconsistency with residency status. Many people purchased real estate to qualify for residency there, then Malaysia redid their income qualifications and made the new terms retroactive, so the people who could qualify before no longer qualified. This shows an inconsistent government.

[@GoWithLess]

Amazing gluten free pizza!!! Yippee! Thanks for a terrific snapshot into Ajijic/Lake Chapala.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks guys! We are enjoying following your adventures too.

[@GoWithLess]

@@snailtravelersIf only we were together!

[@Mexicobeanpole]

We lived there for 2 years but had to move back to Florida to take care of aging parents. We’d live there again in a heartbeat.

[@dwalker6868]

Thank you

[@snailtravelers]

You're welcome

[@kirbyelsereno]

Nice video. I think in Mexico if you can buy a house or condo it is doable living on Social Security. We visited Lake Chapala and really liked it but it is very sleepy.

[@snailtravelers]

Yes, completely agree. Thanks for watching!

[@golfertex]

Hi Snails 8-) I agree, Lake Chapala is overrated & a bit overpriced. The lake is dirty and gray. We were going to rent an apartment for 3 months, but decided to stay in Guadalajara. However, it is a nice Sunday getaway. Jocotepec seems a better place to stay.

[@bananapatch9118]

We hope to visit but we speak Spanish and have lived abroad before, and it seems too USA-light for us. Too many expats running up the prices. But, it does look like a nice place. To each his own thanks for the video !

[@emmaherrick8472]

Can u swim, boat in Lake Chapala? How is fishing there?

[@snailtravelers]

We would not recommend swimming because there is some pollution in the lake. There are boats on the lake, and we also saw fishermen on the lake as well.

[@joemc111]

Nice production, that lake is it polluted?

[@snailtravelers]

Hi! Yes, we were told that the lake is fairly polluted, unfortunately. It's still a very beautiful lake, but not a good lake for swimming. Thanks for watching our video!

[@savvysouljar]

I have an place in Chápala and love it. My goal is to live here 6 months out of the year.

[@cadacabezaesunmundo6496]

Are there good places to swim in the lake?

[@snailtravelers]

It's not a good lake for swimming because it has a lot of pollution. Thanks for watching our video!

[@KhakiShorts]

Maybe they had an eskimo painting to remind them of cold places (kind of like people in the arctic would have a painting of a coconut tree hanging over a sunny beach). Is the Lake Chapala Society run by expats? Or is it run by locals who teach local skills?

[@snailtravelers]

Hey guys! From what we could tell The Lake Chapala Society is mostly organized by expats but they hire the local people to teach many of the classes, especially those that relate to learning the language, the food, the culture, etc. Thanks for watching!

[@prime8nate]

It's run by expats. Lots of retired people with free time on their hands for projects like this.

[@DeannaMaasbach]

I lived there last year great place.

[@ericdrews5050]

Yes! I love Chili Verde and it’s daily specials

[@muchkneaded]

About 3 years ago, I sub-leased a 2BR/1.5BTH apartment for $550USD/month (includes utilities) in San Antonio, between Ajijic and Chapala. I could literally could WALK to Ajijic in about 15-20 minutes. There was a Walmart in San Antonio, a 6 minute walk from my apt. Next to that was an Auto Zone and Dominoes Pizza. I ate ALL my meals at a couple of local restaurants, most often at Casa Cacau, a 4 minute walk for me. My perception of that part of Mexico? Too many "gringoes." When I mentioned this to a British man who had lived in San Antonio for several years, he agreed and replied, "This isn't Mexico, it's like living in a bubble in Mexico." Hint: it helps A LOT to know at least SOME Spanish. I actually overheard a 40-50 year old gringo man STERNLY tell the young Mexican girl behind the counter at the Telcel office, "YOU PEOPLE NEED TO LEARN ENGLISH!!" I noticed that, when I'd go into a local shop and ask the cashier, "Do you speak English?", s/he would visibly tense up and answer, "NO!" (they obviously had experience with arrogant gringoes). I would politely reply, "Bueno, estoy aprendiendo español, pero no entiendo todo." S/he would IMMEDIATELY relax because at least I was making an attempt to learn THEIR language, and they were happy to help me. During my purchase, if I didn't know the Spanish word I needed, S/HE would tell me the word in Spanish! So, they actually knew more English than they let on, but they were willing to work WITH me to HELP me learn their language! I probably won't return, but I did enjoy the 5 months I was there (May-September). 😃

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you for sharing this. I think it is always helpful to hear about people's experiences. We do know a bit of Spanish and agree with you that learning the language is important for being able to connect with the local people. Thanks again for writing this comment.

[@cheguevara5560]

I agree with you 100 % I went to Spain for vacation with very little spanish and after 3 weeks ,I pick a lot by talking to local people ,practising my spanish . it all about trying and people will open up and your experience is going to be much more interesting ...

[@muchkneaded]

@@cheguevara5560 That's so true, Che! It takes only a small effort to learn, especially when you can type, or speak, into your smart phone and read, or hear, your message in whatever language you've selected!

[@robbie3099]

be nice to have prices of the items your showing. even if it was a few months ago.

[@wengliu]

This is an expat place mostly for retirees and snowbirds/sunbirds. For people travelling by or vacationing at, there are other better options. Overpriced?! Or does the price reflect its value (for those people)?! : )

[@snailtravelers]

Yes, absolutely. You make good points in your comment. Thanks for the input.

[@kennkid9912]

Overpriced.its Mexico, not CAL.

[@sallyzedillo4468]

We lived in Chapala for 6 months. Went there to get acquainted with Mexican culture etc. At 3 months we discovered our proximity to Nayarit beaches, and couldn't wait to leave to move there. We did enjoy the LCS, but Chapala at that time had few quality restaurant, and we found the town boring. We are now living in San Miguel de Allende and think this city Wii become home.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for sharing your experience. We liked both Chapala and San Miguel de Allende and would be happy at either place. But if we had to choose one, we would probably go with San Miguel as well. Thanks for watching our video!

[@uligygdlful]

San Miguel the allende is more boring than Chapala that’s for sure

[@johningle1]

I too was in Ajijic for a short stint, about 6 weeks and kept finding myself traveling to Puerto Vallarta on the weekends because Ajijic was pretty slow and boring. I'm 50, but not quite ready to be that slowed down. Puerto Vallarta was fun and the beaches awesome.

[@mineralt]

Just went to to Ajijic last week. I thought it was much more third world than I would have thought, and was surprised here is no real bar scene at all. It’s def not a place young adults.

[@snailtravelers]

Yes the expat population is definitely an older demographic, probably a bit disappointing for younger people. Thanks for sharing your point of view and for watching our video!

[@VaughnBresheare]

What's the apartment you stayed in? Wonder if they take pets. Thanks

[@snailtravelers]

Hello, we stayed at La Mision Apartments in Ajijic, and I believe that pets are allowed. Here is a link: la-mision.net/

[@bigtime911]

How does it compare to hualtico mx?

[@snailtravelers]

We haven't been to Hualtuco, but from what we know about it, it's probably hotter and less expensive than Lake Chapala. Chapala has easy access to a big airport compared to Hualtuco. Sorry I can't be more helpful, we do hope to visit Hualtuco sometime.

[@EarthRoamingAdventures]

We found it to be polluted and with so much smog you could not see across the lake and don't get me started on the traffic.

[@snailtravelers]

Yes, these are some of the negatives of Lake Chapala. The traffic was heavy when we were there in the low season. I'm sure it's even heavier in the high season.

[@kennkid9912]

Chapala has come serious pollution issues. At the upper end of it were alot of mines. Alot ofmercury in that water.

[@douggalloway6939]

Where did you stay , and can you get around with out a car ?

[@snailtravelers]

Hello, we had no trouble getting around without a car. We mostly walked and took the bus. We stayed at La Mision apartments, about a 30-40 minute walk to central Ajijic or a 5 minute walk to the bus stop. Here is a link for the apartments: la-mision.net

[@douggalloway6939]

@@snailtravelers Thank you

[@BuceriasRodHardy]

Weather is great in the Lake Chapala area, but after living there on and off a few months over a 19 year period, we think it's way over rated and just too close to the millions of people who live in the Guadalajara metro area, so we ended up living full-time in Bucerias in the Riviera Nayarit just north of Puerto Vallarta.

[@snailtravelers]

Yes, I can completely understand we you would feel that way about the Lake Chapala area. But I'm glad you found a place that works for you in Mexico. Thanks for watching our video.

[@MsSpecialK29]

Glad you're liking Bucerias! Can't wait to spend more time in Nayarit when I get back down there. ;)

[@kennkid9912]

You must like heat.

[@philipfareio4445]

You look young travel more

[@llee8325]

Bucerias IA nice, but the heat in summer is unbearable.

[@rond301]

Where is the place you stayed ?

[@snailtravelers]

We stayed at La Mision Apartments. Here is a link: la-mision.net/

[@Parraguezanez]

Have you very been in Mexico Estado de México?? At the north area as Cuautitlan Izcalli as invest to retired , it is so close from Mexico city and have everything to give the american retired people good quality life...k

[@valleriejoy]

This is one of the vlogs on the Lake Chapala area.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for watching!

[@tcb1017]

Good video also you do talk and explain very well about everything. Also yes, I think you are right about the prices but then again, all those Americans and people from Canada they don't care and they can't or want to live anywhere else in Mexico so ok then, there it is why the prices are high. Yes, Jerry and Lori are nice people, I'm a suscriber with them but they are not poor. They are very nice and kind and loving people but not poor. If you only would see and know what kind of condo they have there just look. They have it now listed on the you tube they make so it is all open for people to view. I heard ones forma person who said that when you have it good meaning a little bit more money to live higher and drive nicer and eat healthier so you do have it easier then to be a little bit more happy so again, yes Jerry and Lori are nice people. You guys seems to be nice also and again, you make or made here a good video about Chapala and Ajijic and Jocotec very good.

[@snailtravelers]

Thank you very much!

[@CAPerry-ub1ps]

Hi, Do African-Americans feel a part of and welcomed by the other U.S. and Canadian expats?

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for the comment. We can't really say whether or not the community would welcome African-Americans because we haven't experienced that situation. But one of our favorite KZbin channels is The Yarbros. They have excellent videos that give insight into living in Mexico as African-Americans.

[@MsSpecialK29]

I think so. Ajijic is a very tolerant, eclectic community. ;) But I would say (just like anywhere) go visit for a week to see how you actually like it.

[@Eva-li2pe]

Wandering what I could get for less than $500? Could I get an endocrinologist there?

[@snailtravelers]

I would guess that you could find an apartment for around US$500 but it would be very basic. Anything comfortable under $500 would be difficult to find. I also think you could find an endocrinologist, if not in Ajijic then definitely in Guadalajara just about an hour away. I would like to suggest Jerry Brown Travels KZbin channel because he puts out videos about housing rental prices and medical care in the Chapala/Ajijic area. Thanks!

[@Eva-li2pe]

@@snailtravelers thank you!

[@lunazamoraart]

I can’t decide on Chapala or San Miguel. San Miguel seems livelier but more expensive

[@snailtravelers]

Yeah, I think it could be tough deciding between the two. Both San Miguel and Ajijic are relatively expensive, although housing prices in Chapala are more reasonable. As you said, San Miguel is a little more active and artsy, maybe a little younger (slightly). We have a video about San Miguel on our channel page if you haven't seen it yet. And we would also suggest visiting both places first if you haven't already been.

[@lunazamoraart]

@@snailtravelers 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽. I go everywhere but! Chiapas Oaxaca CDMX and Juarez. Those two are next!

[@GipsyDean]

Why do you spend so much on health and insurance? I have been here a year and spent 0. Do you have medical issues?

[@snailtravelers]

We don't generally have medical issues, but when we were in Chapala we had several routine check ups. We also have an international health insurance policy that covers us everywhere in the world (including the US as long as we spend less than 6 months per year in the US).

[@patriciacarey1824]

I lived there. The owner did not take care of maintenance of the property. There were cucharachas in the apartment that were not taken care of efficiently. Upon leaving the owner said I had to give him a 3 months notice which is a lie and he lied to me about other things. He kept my $750. deposit. This looks good on the internet but looks are deceiving. Rent a place from an American or Canadian landlord. Believe me.

[@snailtravelers]

Sounds like your apartment situation was a nightmare. We were fortunate to have a great landlord in Ajijic. We noticed a leak in the roof and he had someone come to fix it within a few hours.

[@dvcam22]

Is not overpriced! Actually as a Mexican i think is super fair on prices! Monterrey, where i came from is REALLLY overpriced! Nothing to do with Chapala and Ajijic! And for what can you get ( great weather and safety), Ajijic and Chapala are a great living option!

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for your feedback. I have heard about Monterrey being expensive. Thank you for sharing this information.

[@petewick8627]

2 months????

[@dezhoneybbq1993]

750 USD or mx

[@snailtravelers]

Our apartment was $775 USD per month.

[@lupitacajero7185]

What do the landlords ask for to rent us an apartment?

[@snailtravelers]

Our apartment that you saw in the video was US$775 per month, including all utilities and internet. The only thing our landlord asked from us ahead of time was a US$500 deposit. We had the option to pay the deposit either through PayPal or through the landlord's bank account. We had the US$500 refunded to us when we left. We met a few people who were renting apartments that did not require any deposit.

[@lupitacajero7185]

@@snailtravelers Oh that is a relief! Thank you for responding. I heard in Mexico City and Merida they ask for a guarantor. I am retiring at 64 and want to move to Mexico but I was afraid of not finding an apartment because I don't have a guarantor in Mexico. It's my mom and me and I have to have an apt. For her and myself. I can pay but I don't have a guarantor. My family has property but in other States not in those particular States I want to move to.

[@lupitacajero7185]

@@snailtravelers I also agree that Jocotepec seems to be nicer. I am just looking for a safe place for both of us; family oriented. But a Mexican lady living in Jalisco just told me yesterday it is very insecure; you said in your video, you didn't feel insecure though. I don't know what they mean by that; are they seeing men just watching them, does anyone follow them, do they kidnap people? See what I mean? what are they referring to, feeling insecure?; they are alive and working, not kidnapped, so I don't know what they are referring to.

[@missmayflower]

@@lupitacajero7185 It’s quite common for a landlord to ask for first and last months’ rent as well as a deposit of another month’s rent. Really depends who you rent from.

[@snailtravelers]

@@lupitacajero7185 Yes, that is confusing. Jalisco is a pretty big state, so maybe they are referring to somewhere else in the state. We felt safe in the area around Lake Chapala. I'm sure there is some crime, just like there is just about everywhere in the world, but we didn't have any sense of danger or concerns about our security.

[@normaferrari6299]

Les amamos en Cristo jesus

[@normaferrari6299]

CRISTO viene

[@ediem4222]

No vegan food?

[@snailtravelers]

Yes, there are several restaurants with vegan options. Many of these restaurants will have a chalkboard outside listing their vegan dishes.

[@kennkid9912]

Definetly Ajijic overblown.Everything is better in the town of Chapala.The same market goods are chaper ther.More life inC ,better shopping too.The lake is a way overblown feature.Nobody swims there. No boating.my wife water skied there 60 years ago.So it has probably declined quite a bit The beer garden is still there in C.Sundays are lively days in C. Family outting day.

[@TysonJensen]

How's your Spanish? Chapala / Ajijic residents are paying the English speaking premium -- you don't need Spanish here. Hard for me to call a place in Mexico where you can live a very comfortable life on $2000 / month and not speak any Spanish "overrated." But if you have near-native or native fluency in Spanish you'll probably find this area to be too expensive.

[@snailtravelers]

You make a good point here. I studied Spanish for 8 years in high school and college. I speak enough to communicate but wouldn't call myself fluent. But yeah, as you said, it is quite easy to live in Chapala/Ajijic without Spanish.

[@jancampos5797]

We live in colonial México, I know some spanish,my husband a lot less, no Americans here but us and we have no problem. Many many people in Mexico speak english since it has become part of their primary and secondary education. And yes Ajijic is very expensive compared to the rest of mexico. Anywhere you have a large community of expats the prices will be higher. We also think the entire Lake Chapala area is highly overrated. I think we would miss out on a lot of the local culture living in a usa community here. We also see how it has affected the local population and you lose a lot of what makes México...we'll México! It also looks a little more "shabby shic" than the colonial area. There are some beautiful houses but not many in the colonial style. The biggest difference we saw in how people live is that there are numerous support organizations for english speaking expats that help you with everything from immigration to entertainment. Where we live there are none. But there are also few usa expats and that keeps things reasonably priced. My reaction to most of the home videos we see is an immediately dissapointment in the decor and style and amenities. The homes look well used, kinda shabby for the most part. Very different from our state where you get much much more for your money. I live in a pueblo mágico I the middle of the wine region where wealthy Mexicans take vacation or have summer homes here. The prices are at least half of what they are in the lake chapada area. And they look better. Currently I live in a vacation home owned by a Mexican television star and her husband a new director in Mexico city. I've been here 3 years. We have a large green lawn, and an outdoor pavilion, a rooftop terrace, a small private garden off our bedroom, 2 brs, 2.5 bathrooms one with a jacuzzi tub, a fully equipped kitchen with cabinets, and a view of the mountains. It's in a fracc with 24 hour manned security. It's in the expensive part of town and we pay the equivalent of 600 USD. soon we will move to our forever home, which is a single story 3 br 2.5 bath with a jacuzzi tub, a fully equiped kitchen, a pool, gardener included, and a smaller outdoor area for the equivalent of 500 USD per month. Both are unfurnished. As I said it is a vacation town, so prices are considered higher than normal. In the closet town we can find equivalent rentals as low as 375 USD per month. All look better than anything we saw in chapada several years ago.and all are cheaper.

[@profitstags9842]

Best place to matter what anyone says . It's the best if you don't like it . Get out . I don't appreciate people talking about my city where I'm from in Mexico . Jus leave if you don't like it .

[@keyboardwarriorrose]

My parents have lived there for 20 years. I love everything about it except the pollution in the air from farmers burning their crops.

[@snailtravelers]

That is good information and important for someone who is thinking about living there to know. Thanks for sharing!

[@keyboardwarriorrose]

@@snailtravelers and thank you for the video!!!

[@joaqEFI]

You focused on Chapala, Axixic, Jocotepec. We have lived the opposite direction, 7 miles east of Chapala for years. Owned our place since 1989. Many other expats out the way to famed Mezcala. You never mentioned the traffic mess, noise and congestion in the Axixic area. Hate what it has become.

[@snailtravelers]

Thanks for sharing.

[@joaqEFI]

@@snailtravelers You are welcome. As was noted many expats call Lake Chapala home. Next month traditionally snowbirds will start arriving to spend the next 5-6 months. They congregate in the Axixic area and add to the traffic woes. With the way traffic and noise have increased out that way we seldom drive in anymore, to Walmart is about it. We find driving the 7 miles west into Chapala as a 'big' city outing. Ha Ha Ha. About 24,000 pop. There are a number of restaurants from there to San Antonio Tlayacapan that suffice us well. But, if art galleries etc. music, medical care are desired only the congested Axixic area has all. Our first time at the lake was 1982, and we bought and built in 1991. We have met many foreign retirees in this haven of retirement. There can fellow expats to be wary of for some can be opportunists to fleece others / confidence schemers. Have never had problems like that with the local Mexicans. If anyone has an interest in buying real estate then it must be understood that there can be legal issues about private ownership. But, sellers have a history NOT disclosing such issues, will not mention agrarian laws and ejido, indigenous land claims; whether valid or bogus. There is so much more you could/should mention in such a video as yours.

[@snailtravelers]

@@joaqEFI This is very good information, thanks again. I'm sure it will be helpful to those considering coming or moving here. We did experience some traffic congestion, but we were there in the off season in August and September. I can only imagine the congestion during the high season.

[@prime8nate]

I agree about the traffic. Driving into Ajijic on the weekend can be a nightmare. There are so many places with similar climates in Mexico where you don't have that issue.

[@kennkid9912]

You go back a ways to 1989. My wife visited CH and AJ as a girl 60 odd years ago. There was a beer garden on the lake. Could it possibly still be there? She lived in GUAD. near the American School and Country Club. Her father had looked at an inn to buy in Jocotepec. It was supposedly the oldest continuously operating inn in Mexico. Alot of artists lived there.

[@jfields6687]

I now live in central mexico in the colonial region far from any usa expat communities. Amd well...i think the lake chapala region is highly over rated. And very expensive for one reason alone...its where usa americans live. The services are no better, the properties are a little worse for wear, the infrastructure overwhelmed. What you get for your money in reality is expat support services for those who are not acclimated to their new country and those that really dont want to. Period. If you want english speakers as friends, business owners, etc....its there. For a price. But if you are comfortable learning spanish and interacting with real mexicans, and are willing to make the effort to aclimate, you would be cheating yourself not only financially to live there. Real mexico and real mexicans are just as supportive, but it will be more one on one. We received all kinds of help from many mexican individuals willing to give of themselves and their time to help us. And those friendships have given us much more than any support we would find in an expat group. So yes it is highly overrated and unexplainably expensive and would be one of the last places i would recommend to anyone serious about living in mexico full time. And for me, the colonial region is much more esthetically pleasing. After living in queretaro, chapala and ajijiv look like a slum. Sorry, but my honest opinion.

[@snailtravelers]

This is very good information from someone who has lived in many places in Mexico, thanks for sharing!

[@AHPSC]

Don't get me wrong but, gringos always speak of Mexico as if it were 200 square miles. They roam around a small area in the State of Jalisco and they believe they have an informed opinion.

[@snailtravelers]

Fair enough. We are spending 6 months in Mexico, planning to visit 10-12 states around the country while we are here.

[@andreawisner7358]

The natives are friendly, lol.

[@wildbill6366]

Yes ,so overrated!! Was probably okay 30 years ago but that toxic polluted lake and the traffic and all the gringos makes it pretty boring...

[@snailtravelers]

We somewhat agree with your description. We enjoyed Ajijic but it's not our top choice.

[@beverlyhintzen8780]

Lake Chapala is highly polluted with mercury. Not a very safe environment

[@marialicesatterthwaite2915]

Ajijic in particular is definitely overpriced.

[@gabrielruvalcaba2310]

I agree.. W. A. Y... OVERRATED.. BEING LIVED THERE . DONE THAT... I'M BACK I N THE. U S But.... I go back and Friends Wait for me. Got my eye on Costa Rica..

[@snailtravelers]

Yes, we would love to go back to visit friends we made in Chapala. And although we enjoyed our stay there, it's probably not our first choice for a place to live permanently. Thanks for watching!

[@chaseroberts3111]

your living in an area where the baddest drug cartel calls home, Sinalao

[@sesomnoslen5729]

Yes, it is overrated!

[@catcauldron217]

What about all the crime? Cartels, kidnappings, avocados, etc, . . .

[@snailtravelers]

I think the crime situation is something to keep an eye on. We felt safe in Lake Chapala when we were there and never perceived anything threatening. But the crime situation can change quickly, so it's probably best to stay updated with the current situation.

[@catcauldron217]

@@snailtravelers . . . also, I don’t hear much about homelessness. What is the situation there?

[@snailtravelers]

We didn't notice homelessness in Ajijic or Chapala. I'm not saying there is or isn't homelessness, we just didn't see any. There is definitely poverty though.

[@catcauldron217]

@@snailtravelers thank you. 🙂 And civil rights? Speech, religion, press, assembly, E.R.A. I suppose I can google it but what is your first hand experience?

[@juansantana8448]

Sounds to me like a gringo ghetto

[@malcolmnicoll1165]

Due to popularity, I’m Curious to know if these places will eventually become Californicated and become exclusive enclaves strictly for the super wealthy and everyone else excluded.

[@freddylopez2021]

I hope gringos Star moving to other states Because alot people are moving there and is going to be a big problem ones a city or a town Get to popular is a big problem There is way to many nicer towns and cities in Mexico Beside lake chapala This guy talk about the people are nice and tender Wow he don't even know How nice people are 🤣🤣🤣 Then he may think The Arts and crafts are from Mexico noooooooo They from china Lake chapala is CHAPALA 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@davidboatwright2933]

Over Rated!

[@davidboatwright-vt4fc]

Over Rated!!!

[@guillescatering]

México country it's over rated with all the crime and drug cartels I won't live there no way.

[@chronicillz1879]

I’m sorry but aren’t you too young to to be a retiree?

[@snailtravelers]

I'll be talking about that in our next video! I also talked about it some in this video: kzbin.info/door/GJ4IMMZGq_5AUemDxpL0iQ

[@forester4radix976]

Si piensas que esta sobrevalorado solo regresa a tu país y no vuelvas quedate con las karens y el frio extremo, o ve a otro país y no vuelvas

[@jimmccann3856]

Yes, you have overpaid for everything, as a result of your odd (Ajijic) choice. I rent a big two bedroom in Chapala for 6000 pesos ($300 US), and other costs are proportionately less here also. Ajijic is for newbies, who do not know any better, or for those who have unlimited funds and therefore just do not care. And, most oddly of all, given your recent experiences in Malaysia, you skipped right past THE major expat issue of our times: Which countries are NOW overrated for retirement or slow travel in the covid and post-covid era. I entreat you to think long and hard about this, and then make the video you should have made. (Hint: SE Asia and Mexico are now at the opposite ends of the spectrum.)

[@missmayflower]

They made a great video. They made the one they “should have”. You “should” make that video if you feel so strongly about it. It would be interesting to see your point of view.

[@snailtravelers]

@@missmayflower Thank you for your support.

[@grancitodos7318]

Guadalajara has very good medical laboratories, but it has a lot of ignorant, and scamming doctors, but so does the Mayo clinic in Arizona. It is necessary to get a number of second opinions, however, the cost is not high.

[@snailtravelers]

Good advice! Thank you for sharing this.