So I took this quick video for you of Mazatlán while my husband, Dick, and I were driving around town. You’ll see McDonalds, Applebee’s, the ocean and a whole lot of other familiar places.

You would not believe how fast Mazatlán is growing – despite the slow economy in the U.S. In a lot of ways, Mazatlán is just like your typical vacation city… like Orlando or San Diego or Myrtle Beach, complete with all of the amenities that you would expect.

So without further delay, here’s my video, proudly (and simply) titled  “Driving around Mazatlán”. Let me give you a quick tour….

On the way to Rosario, south of Mazatlán, there is a small, quaint town called Aguacaliente. It’s absolutely stunning! Imagine a tropical paradise complete with banana trees, mango trees, orange trees and coconut groves. And guess what?! There is a natural hot spring! Those of you who know Spanish have probably already figured this out; as the name suggests (in Spanish) “agua” means water and “caliente” is hot. Thus,“hot water (springs)”.

As you go on, you’ll see Copala, a picturesque colonial village that’s nestled in the hills. It’s actually an ancient mining town with beautiful red roofs, and steep cobblestoned streets with lots of smiling, friendly people. It’s truly a place where time seems to stand still.

About twenty minutes from Copala, is a little German-inspired village called, La Capilla del Taxte. Are you a bird watcher? Then I have some news for you! Bird watching is the central activity here. La Capilla del Taxte is also a great place for scenic hikes through the gentle sloping hills. You’ll catch an amazing view of the Sierra Madre. It’s truly a dream come true.

Then… less that five minutes before you enter Concordia, off a little dirt road, we passed a colorful little school. The road was a little steep! We had to drive very slowly. There was a  concrete pillared, open-air structure shading the natural hot springs.

For the locals, these natural hot springs are a laundry center, where the women come to wash the clothes.

In fact, there are actually three nearby towns known for their hot springs: Garate, Santa Fe and Arrona. Not really large enough to be full-fledged hot springs, the locals call these tiny refuges “aguita calientes” or “little hot springs.”

Before I close this letter to you, my dear reader, be sure to visit Concordia, a beautiful town founded in 1565 as Villa De San Sebastian.

Once you’re in town, you will find a charming old town square. As usual, it’s right in front of a church…but this church is over 350 years old! In fact, it the oldest church in the state of Sinaloa. You will probably want to stroll through the many antique and furniture stands.

One final thought: Do remember to drive carefully, please…and enjoy the trip. And of course, be sure to check with the U.S. state department and your local expat contacts (which you can find on the Internet) to check on the local conditions.

What about you? Have you been to Mazatlán? What’s your opinion??

I hope you didn’t think I had forgotten about you, or deserted you – there was quite a space of time just recently,  that I couldn’t get new retirement  information to you!  Sometimes keeping a Website up and working properly is a real pain in the kaboodle.  We’ve changed servers now, and have even changed our email company and so far this month, things are running wonderfully smooth…a great way to start the year!

 Those of you who received duplicate email from me during that  troubling time, because I was trying to inform you about a new article being available online, were so kind to let me know about the situation so quickly.  There was just a small glitz that eluded us for several days before we found it and could correct it.

                 You all know how computers are – I wrote an article a short time ago about “Computers, Love’em and Hate’em”!

               It truly takes a lot of work on this end to keep the retirement info, financial, medical, locations, and more, coming to you, but I really believe that now, we’re back on track.

The water towers you watch for when you pull off in Yuma to gas up.

It’s important to me to try to keep the information I gather going out to all of you in a timely manner, so you can wisely make one of the most important decisions in your life… where you will end up spending your retirement years, which can either be a most trying time, or a most glorious time of your life… and also giving those who are still looking forward to their retirement years the information they need to have so they are well-prepared when their “time  in the sun” comes.

So, thanks for letting me know when you do get multiples, or any other thing that may pop up and not seem quite right!  You are basically my first line of defense  – a very important part of my site – I thank you.

Going into the U.S., from Mexico, at the Yuma/Andrade border crossing.

I’m including a few pictures of the Yuma area and the border crossing.  They were taken when we were there for the finishing up of my implants.  Enjoy.  Oh – did you know that if you click on the pictures, they get bigger? 

My scooter and me, taking the handicap trail back to the parking lot after just leaving Algodones, Mexico.

  Retirement Article by Barbie.

For All Seniors Legally Living in Mexico

I’ve already presented to you, an article about the INAPAM discount cards.  I had so many emailed questions and so much interest in discount cards, here’s a bit more information about them.

Your local DIF office (Desarrollo Integral de la Familia), in the State where you live, will be able to assist you in obtaining the two discount cards, that you will want to secure.   INAPAM, Nationwide, and The Plan Venerable, for the Guadalajara area, are the two discount cards that Senior natives and foreigners, living in Mexico, can obtain and make use of.  You can use these cards to get discounts at many businesses, services, entertainment and cultural venues throughout Mexico, including eating establishments, cinemas, drugstores, buses, retail establishments, medical services, governmental services and tax discounts, and even airplane tickets.

Barbie & Dick in Cabo

INAPAM (Instituto Nacional de las Personas Adultas Mayores), a Nation-wide discount card program for everyone age 60 and over, allows for discounts in some 20,000 retail and service outlets throughout Mexico, such as VIPS, drugstores, inter-city buses, cultural and artistic classes and events, and even for airplane tickets.  Over and above the discounts at these businesses, INAPAM also offers medical and legal assistance.  One other offering INAPAM also offers is assistance in finding work for Seniors.

Venerable a los Adultos Mayores cards, is a State card – Jalisco.  Primarily offers discounts for Mexican Seniors over 50 years of age, but, you do have a chance, at least, of obtaining this discount card if you are an expat.  Most of the participating discounters for this card are in the Guadalajara area. The plan is valid for many businesses, mainly located in Guadalajara, including hotels, hospitals, restaurants, hospitals, physicians, opticians, laboratories, medical equipment outlets, stores and service providers.  “The Plan Venerable” card also allows Mexicans aged 50+ to get substantial discounts on their annual water bills and property taxes. Some Municipalities do take a rather discretionary approach to foreigners applying for this particular benefit. However, if you don’t ask, you won’t get.

The "must-see" arch at Cabo, at the bottom of the Baja

The two discount cards may duplicate each other somewhat, but, if you can get them both – do.  But, the INAPAM for most expats, is the best one to have.

To take with you when you apply for INAPAM & The Plan Venerable cards   Of course, this list may vary in different locales and depending upon which clerk you happen to get.  But, if you go with this list in your hand, the requirements should be covered. :

• FM2 or FM3 credential or your visa (or your latest visa/permit)  booklet (plus 2 photocopies of the photo page),
• Passport (plus 2 photocopies of the photo page),
• Proof of residence – a Utility bill in your name, such as: CFE, Telmex or Simapa or the deed to your home, or your rental lease ( 2 photocopies of each),
• Four Infantil size photos of applicant (color or black & white, instant photo is ok.  Make sure your picture is taken facing the camera.  It is  recommend that you wear light colored clothing so the DIF stamp shows easily on the card.  Take your glasses off to have the picture taken.  And actually you can, at most offices, get your picture taken there – but, take some with you, then you’re prepared,
• Contact info of a relative or friend (I have heard this is in case of an accident?)

One of the best parts of these discount cards is that they are totally free.

If we all keep searching for little ways to cut our costs here and there, retirement will continue to be a blessing, and not a burden.  If you know of some great freebies or ways to cut costs for other retirees, do let me know, I’ll be so glad to pass them along to our Internet Family…any way to make the pennies (or pesos) stretch is appreciated by Dick and me!

Enjoying the beauty of Manzanilla's malecon

Hi. Barbie here. The New Year is upon us already! Boy, the year sure has gone by fast –again.

Dick and I and Griffy, too, hope you and your loved ones had the most wonderful Holiday Season, and wish for all of you, Blessings Galore in the New Year.

I’m sending you all a few, albeit a little late, “gifts”, in this mailing… Although these gifts won’t go under your tree, which I’m sure you’re taking down by now, I think you’ll find everyone of them valuable to you. So, here’s my offering to you – enjoy:

Free Credit Report:

This is actually a free report – does not change or hamper your credit reports – and you can avail yourself of this free service, once a year, every year, at – https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp

National Do Not Call:

If you, like Dick and I, just grit our teeth when all those unsolicited phone calls come through, and then, try to act polite to people who are really stepping on your privacy, then use this service. It will take a few weeks to become active, but, it does work. Go to this site and fill in the info for your phone privacy to start – it too is totally free – https://www.donotcall.gov/register/reg.aspx

Get Free Books:

If you are one of the many, many folks who have found reading a pleasure on a Kindle, (or an Ipod, or an IPad) did you know that not only can you purchase the books you desire and take them with you anyplace you go on a handy little Kindle, but you can actually get free books! Just go to – free books

Free Books to Read On Your Computer:

Don’t have a Kindle (yet)? How about just getting comfortable in front of you computer and read books free – online – no Kindle needed! Get that second cup of coffee, get comfortable and plan to spend a few hours reading great books FREE right on your own computer, at – http://www.readbookonline.net/

Share Books Free:

You can also “share” books through Amazon – and if you order lots of things like I do through Amazon, and use Amazon Prime, it’s a totally free service that you find here: share books

Just a whole lot of Freebies – now, EVERYONE loves this stuff!

At this site, you can access free coupons and links to everything from free razors and cookbooks to dishes – all free at – http://www.shopathome.com/discounts_and_coupons/Download-Brand.aspx

Have fun with these links – but, remember, the way to save in Mexico during your retirement years – sort of like giving yourself a free gift – is to buy where the natives do, eat where they eat, and shop as they shop. You’d be surprised! I don’t think anyone should move to Mexico without first making trip there to test the water. When you do go, after you’ve gotten all your information gathered together, then visit the area that really peaks your interests and needs, not as a tourist, but as someone searching for a place that will fulfill your desires and needs for a wonderful retirement!

P.S. You will probably want to make sure your pop-up blockers are on before visiting a couple of these sites – I put mine on, and I have had no problems with “cookies”, etc. By the way, before I say goodbye for today, I do want to remind you of another thing: Right now, go and get your checkbook and write on at least 20 checks, the new year of 2012 on the date line. I can almost guarantee that, since we all do things automatically, you will still be writing the old year of 2011 in the date unless you fill those checks in right now.

Free Things Article by Barbie.

 …a wonderful break with this great cooler weather!  Finally, I can wear a couple of sweaters now and then!

We all know the hot season will end every year about this time, but, sometimes I think we all deserve a badge of some kind for just weathering it through the hot, muggy days of summer.

I realize those who live in the “far north” … as we used to… like north of Mississippi - won’t really understand.  They are very happy with some nice moderate days!

So, here we are – time continues to fly and believe it or not, Christmas is just around the corner – our little “love tree” is ready for Santa.  And the cooler temps we’re experiencing make a hot steaming turkey or juicy ham sound real good again.

N. Americans, some really up against tight budgets, and especially for their health care expenses, are not so quick to head across the border any more.

Now some of the once well-traveled roads  around the border, even to the little havens where it was so easy to get bargains and just have a wonderful day, are very noticeably void of North Americans. 

I have to sit back, wonder how this situation happened, and how it could have been stopped, a long time ago.

Yes, the U.S. Government is suggesting no travel in Mexico – you must realize you are entering a dangerous place right now, and though both governments are starting to cooperate, it’s going to be a long time before I would just cross the border and start traveling as we could, just a short time ago.

Stay safe – don’t take any chances…The “Know Before You Go” slogan of the U.S. Department of State reiterates what I’ve been stressing all along – know the area you’re going to, don’t wonder off the well beaten path, don’t wear jewelry that announces to the world that you’re easy pickings!  Don’t flash cash!  And “Know Before You Go!”

Oh, one more thing before I post this article, I received an email with the writer asking: ”If I head to Mexico, should I pack an arsenal?”

Now, while this question may seem entertaining, you surely all know that any kind of weapons taken into Mexico are illegal.  You can be thrown into jail for a long time down there, just for possession.

Sure, all the bad guys have lots of weapons – but, two wrongs do not make a right, and it’s simply against Mexican Law!  So, if you feel that threatened, that you would have to take even a small arsenal with you… DON’T GO.

Once the current problems in Mexico straighten up, the margarita’s will still be waiting for you, along with the bright welcoming smiles.

Safety in Mexico article by Barbie.

Something for all of us to think about – immigration:

In Arizona, Texas, and other states along the United States of America’s southern border, there is an ongoing dispute about illegal aliens – illegal (against a law), alien (a resident born in or belonging to another country who has not acquired citizenship) (distinguished from , a native or naturalized member of a state or nation who owes allegiance to its government and is entitled to its protection).

Reglamento de la Ley General de Poblacion, the General Law on Population enacted in Mexico, mandates that their federal, local and municipal police cooperate with federal immigration authorities upon request, to assist in the arrests of illegal immigrants.

Under Mexican law, illegal immigration is a felony.

Anyone found guilty of attempting illegal immigration in Mexico can be punished by up to two years in prison.

Immigrants who are deported from Mexico and attempt to re-enter can be imprisoned for 10 years.

Visa violators can be sentenced to six-year terms.

Mexicans who help illegal immigrants are considered criminals.

The law also says Mexico can deport foreigners who are deemed detrimental to “economic or national interests,” who violate Mexican law, who are not physically or mentally healthy or who lack the necessary funds for their sustenance and for their dependents.

Mexico’s immigration authorities have a record of each foreign visitor.

Mexico annually deports more illegal aliens than the United States does.

Luckily, each and every country seems to want to protect their own citizens…that is mainly what government is about…or should be.

As our Constitution states:  We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

No matter which country we decide to live in, whether in retirement, or anytime of our lives, the laws of the land should be adhered to.  Without respecting and upholding them, there could be anarchy.

Hope you find this immigration article thought provoking,  Barbie

One

Possibility

for

Health

Insurance

Coverage

in Mexico…

Well, friends, I really messed up sending out my email notice last week – some of you may have received as many as 4 notices, one right after the other – so sorry. When that happened, I just canceled the whole process and decided to give the computer and me a break!  We’re all ready to give you more info now…

IMSS, Mexico’s national health insurance, is offered to anyone living in Mexico – retirees originating from another country as well.

Many expats decided to forego insurance completely, and just put money aside for anything that may come up.  Remembering, that as long as you are a citizen of the United States, you can return to the States at any time, and have your Medicare take over. That gives a person a bit of a safety net, just in case.

While IMSS health insurance offers a very low-cost option, the annual fee for persons over 60 is approximately 3,500 pesos  (about $260.00 US) a year,  it is not exactly the insurance you are used in the States.  IMSS is sometimes compared more to Canada and Great Britain’s systems – probably because you may have to wait for appointments, especially to specialists – but, shoot, I’ve waited for appointments in the States!

Let’s do a quick walk-through:  For example, you need a doctor:   Your first step, under IMSS, would be to go to Unidad Medicos Familiares (Family Care Clinic), and have a consultation with your family doctor.  All of these clinics include a pharmacy on the premise, but the quality of these clinics can vary significantly, with some better equipped than others – having the capability of lab testing and x-rays.  If you have gone to the doctor for something not significant, you are done – the doctor will probably give you a prescription, which you will fill right there – you go home and get well.  It you need further aid, such as a specialist, then you will be sent by your family doctor to one, who are at either regional clinics, hospitals, or medical centers.  Many of the Family HealthCare Clinics have limited hours – they are not equipped for serious emergencies, so they send you one step higher. 

For an emergency, you would go straight to any IMSS clinic or hospital.  You are assigned to a hospital and that is where it’s preferred you go – but if you are in another area at the time of your emergency, you would go to the nearest hospital.

IMSS health coverage includes dental care (extractions and fillings only), eye, ear, hospital, and medical, and also includes lab tests, x-rays, reconstructive surgery and mental health consultations, and prescriptions.

Hospital care in Mexico is usually up to par with what you are already accustomed to in the States. 

Some of the cons:  You must have the proper Visa.  Your family doctor may be different each time you go to Clinic.  Your files are there, it’s just that the doctor you have seen may not be there when you have your appointment.  And, appointments may take a while to get – get used to waiting – so, make your appointments early, if possible, especially for just checkups, etc.  There is not always someone there who speaks English – I’d suggest taking a friend who knows Spanish pretty well.  You must not let your coverage lapse.  You can and should pay your renewal one month before your actual coverage runs out.  Hours at the Clinics are limited, so work your visits into your schedule and just accept that you may be there waiting all day…after all, it’s Mexico. 

I’ll probably follow up my next article, telling you the process to apply for IMSS…keep reading!  

So, here’s all the rest of the info I promised :) – I feel I owe it to you:

To apply for IMSS, you will need: 

1. Birth certificate,

2. Proof of Marital status,

3. Proof of Citizenship (your Passport),

4. Two photos of the applicant,

5.  Valid proof of your status in Mexico (FM3, Temporary, etc),

6.  A filled out questionnaire, in Spanish.  This is to detect chronic diseases that may preclude IMSS acceptance, and includes chronic degenerative diseases, cancer, HIV, renal disease, diabetes, heart disease and psychosis,

Then, you must undergo a checkup with a family doctor.  If any of the above shows up, you may need to have further tests.  The detection of such diseases in the first six months of IMSS affiliation may lead to being rejected without return of the application fee. However, if a chronic disease develops after the first year of affiliation, you should have no reason to be rejected. 

Certain services, such as care for pregnancy, are not available during the first 10 months of IMSS affiliation. There is also a waiting period of one year for all gynecological surgery, and two years for orthopedic surgery, after acceptance.

After you have received your IMSS Card, you must go to your local IMSS clinic so they can assign a Doctor to you.  Take with you your IMSS cards, proof of payment for your IMSS, and your health questionnaire (in Spanish).

Private insurance is another option for your life in Mexico.

Health, IMSS article by Barbie

AND

FACILITIES -

One of the most important things you should consider prior to retirement is the availability of sufficient, convenient, and simply put, good medical facilities located in the area you have decided to spend the best years of your lives.

This is important whether you’re considering Mexico, Costa Rico, Tahiti, Belize, or Panama – or where-ever!  Good Healthcare is going to be extremely important to you during the “Golden Years”!

Mexico stands up quite well in that respect.  You will find up-to-date, modern facilities, with wonderful people staffing those healthcare facilities in Mexico. 

Also important to check out is the insurance plans available to you.  In Mexico, there are insurance plans  offered to everyone – even foreigners. The private insurance we checked on was very  reasonable, compared to what we had been paying in the U.S. 

In Mexico, along with  private health/medical insurance, there are plans you can buy that will air-evacuate you back to the states or back to your home:

To cover you, if you end up at a medical facility you do not feel wonderful about, then you need to purchase a specific coverage, that will ensure you do end up where you want:  SkyMed insurance offers complete packages that meet the recommendations of the US and Canadian Consulates.  Members traveling more than 100 air miles from their home, say in Mexico, can buy a plan that provides emergency transportation from a medical facility to your local hospital and medical care providers. http://www.skymed.com/default.aspx

And there is:  Medevac Critical Care Air & Land Ambulance, 24-hour mobile emergency units, staffed by quality physicians and well-trained  paramedics and life support equipment, offers medical evacuation from Mexico to the United States and runs only around $100 a year.   http://www.aerocare.com/  and www.airambulancenetwork.com/

If an emergency healthcare situation presents itself in Mexico, in almost every city of any size, just call Red Cross (Cruz Roja Mexicana) for an ambulance. Red Cross provides this service and will take you to any hospital of your choice.  The Cruz Roja Mexicana is the rescue and ambulance service for all of México.  The service is free, not funded by the government, and donations are accepted. If hospitalization is necessary, ask your doctor what his fee for the entire procedure is beforehand. Then, when you are checked in, request a daily-itemized bill, and carry it with you when you leave. 

Mexico does offer natives and non-natives alike, a National health care insurance (IMSS) which is very cheap, when compared to U.S. costs.  You can read more about that at www.moneysavingmexico.com/?s=%22healthcare+insurance%22

Some more important info you need to know when considering moving out of the U.S. for your retirement:  www.moneysavingmexico.com/medicare/medicare-in-mexico-2/

Make sure you bookmark, or put into your “Favorites”, my site – keep it handy for quick reference.

Whether your choice for retirement is Mazatlan, Merida, the Chapala area, or any other locale – when you start thinking about where YOU want to retire – you’ll want all the pertinent info such as healthcare to be right at your fingertips! 

My Scooter, &

a Timeshare

Dick and I just came back from a week in Las Vegas.

We had a wonderful time, stayed in the timeshare we had traded for, and were just far enough out of the real hustle-bustle of Vegas to enjoy everything. 

We did take my electric scooter, so I could get around and we took full advantage of it every day we were there.  It has been a few years since I could comfortably walk around any amount, so we hit downtown and Freemont Street, and toured a few of the beautiful casinos, just looking around.  We did take in a couple of shows, and I want to tell you, don’t worry about your “chariot” because, to the people working there in Vegas, they are nothing new, and every convenience is available for you.  We even took the shuttle between a couple of the resorts, and it’s just an easy on and easy off even for that.  I thoroughly enjoyed the freedom my “go-go car” gave me.  Sure, I’m still looking for the “magic bullet” that will relieve my back pain, but until then, I love my little scooter!  It even comes apart and fits in our trunk easily – and takes Dick maybe 9 seconds to put together.

The main reason I decided to write this article is because while there, we did go to a timeshare presentation.  By putting in 90 minutes of our time, we got tickets to a Cirque du Soleil, for half price!  That is the reason most of the people attending the presentation were there – the presenters realize that – but they have really experienced, tough sellers now-a-days!

So, now my opinion about timeshares: 

Dick and I do have a timeshare – in the states – we paid $300 (cash) at a timeshare closeout sale – some 20+ years ago.

Our maintenance for the unit we own has just hit $200/year – and had not been raised for years (Extraordinarily low when compared to other maintenance fees that average $600+).  We still have the RCI membership, $89. a year, and we have to pay an exchange fee of $200. to stay anyplace other than where we bought – so, our yearly amount to spend a week (7 days) in a very nice resort averages just under $500 a year …and we are not even including the original cost – ours, $300 divided by probably 40 years, would be under $10 a year.  But, anything over that purchase price plus interest unless you’re paying cash – is a real big part of the overall expense.

You have to be realistic about how many years you’re going to use your timeshare – how old are you now?  About 55?  So, truthfully, you’re going to get less than 30 years use out of that “bargain” you were talked into buying.  Sure – you have a deed – we do too – biggety woop… that and a couple of bucks will buy you a decent cup of coffee. 

For example, over a 30 or 40 year time period of actually using this timeshare unit once a year, either using the actual unit you purchased or trading it for one in another location – if you paid $20,000 for your unit, you have to add to the $500 expense (with that unusually low maintenance fee) we already went over, the per-year price of $667 on the 30-year possibility, or $500 for the 40-year possibility – equaling a per-week cost of $1,167 for 30 years or $1,000 per week on the 40-year possibility – and that’s not including a possible $15,000 of interest (or more) if you finance.  So, for a grand total of $1,300 to $1,800 a week, you too can lay claim to a timeshare week.

And if you don’t finance, but pay cash – look at the interest you would accrue in 30 years on that amount!! You loose all that! And at the end of 30 or 40 years, you do end up with that deed to…well, take a look at some of the old timeshare locations in the books – they end up pretty tired and worn out.  And I can guarantee your maintenance amount will only go up…

After all of that – do Dick and I enjoy our week each year?  Yes.  Would we be able to stay in such luxury if we hadn’t fallen in X and came up smelling like a rose?  Nope – but, we probably would once in a while.  Would we miss not having a timeshare – Nope.  Are we glad some people don’t really care about the cost and just want to buy?  Yep, we love them – they finance the lovely places we stay at.  Can we stay at the timeshare we bought so long ago?  Sure – but we’ve called two times, intending to go back and visit, and there were no vacancies at the times we wanted…so it’s a popular location. 

Now, if you can rectify those costs against putting the same amount into a savings account and retiring quite well, and using the money wherever and however you want, then timeshare is for you.  Or, perhaps you don’t need to worry financially – good for you – go for it!

Our quarters in Vegas

An argument the salesmen will give you – you will pay over that amount just for plain old motel rooms – well, first of all, we don’t – you can find coupons for almost any motel/hotel.  We don’t feel we have to stay in 5-star facilities just to sleep – but, we try never to stay in anything less than a 3-star facility.  – and again – we search for the deals.  But, if you can find a timeshare at the cost we did – more power to you!!!  Just make sure the maintenance fee is reasonable.

Now – to the actual ownership – you must ask how that is handled at each different timeshare you look at.  Some are deeds, some are not.  Ours is a fee simple – deed – actual ownership (of what?  a room -  in a resort that gets older each year, remember) so, don’t expect to get rich selling it – they’re on Ebay all the time and there are lots and lots of timeshare re-sales out there. 

I’m not a realtor, nor a financial advisor – just do what seems to be the best for you on a timeshare, whether in Florida or Vegas, and enjoy…but, don’t even get me started on the point system!

Vegas, Timeshare, Scooter, article by Barbie.

Mazatlan is not just for retired folks!

For your vacation desires, as far as including Mazatlan in your list of true tourist destinations, Mazatlan can handily lay claim to that title.  But, unlike Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan is also a true living city first and foremost, with fishing and agriculture playing an important part in the economics.

For those wonderful times you and your family have once a year or so, to get away from the pressures of work, you can select from more than 90 hotels and condominium properties. And, not surprising to me, many of them are four and five star resorts. Mazatlan, as I’ve said in my books, Retire In Luxury and Money Saving Mexico, is a real Mexican town, with the added bonus of being a great tourist destination.

Many resorts offer golf, and sometimes they are in partnership with other resorts, so you can enjoy different beautiful courses.  If the “greens” aren’t the way to your heart, take advantage of the beautiful weather and beaches and just relax. Perhaps you want to do some deep sea fishing and pull your own “big one” out of the ocean and even have it cooked for you. Or, lay back and indulge yourself at some of the local restaurants specializing in their wonderful fresh seafood.

Music and festivities are just waiting for you, almost every night, around the beautiful green “square” in the middle of the historic district of Mazatlan, as well as at most of the resorts in the Mazatlan area. My favorite is a stroll on the Malecon – where it’s family oriented.

Some of the newer resorts such as Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay are worth going to visit, just to enjoy the ambiance and beauty. And to tour around Mazatlan, you can not beat the fun of riding in a polmonia – sort of a super golf cart. They are available almost anyplace – and yes, you can ask for a better price.

You’ll find everything from quiet beaches, to interesting shops, exciting touristy fun, such as a canopy adventure – where, on raised platforms, you’ll take a nature walk – up-high! You can take a harbor cruise, take a tour on a mountain bike, snorkel, kayak, ride horses, visit and walk the beaches of Stone Island, take a tequila tour, ride a catamaran, surf at the Olas Altas beach, visit the aquarium, take a jungle tour.

Then, be adventurous - see and experience the real Mexico by visiting the Pino Suarez Mercado, tour the historic district with the Angela Peralta Theater, and relax under the canopy of trees at Plazuela Machado, travel the malecon – sort of an updated boardwalk along the coast that connects the old city to the new and enjoy all the statues dedicated to everything from the polmonias to their favorite beer. See the world’s second-tallest lighthouse, find the scoop about just why Ice box Hill is called so, visit the beautiful historic cathedral, take a side trip to the little communities of Rosario, Copala, Chametla, El Huajote. Travel to the foothills of the impressive Sierra Madre Mountains.

And after a busy day of all this, go back to your beautiful resort, relax and enjoy a deliciously cold margarita, and see if you are fortunate enough to catch the “green blip” the instant the sun disappears into the ocean.

Yes, Mazatlan is a great place to call home, but it’s a wonderful place for tourists, too!

Mazatlan Article by Barbie.

and

Dentistry

Hello!  Well, can you take one more article about dentistry, highlighted by an email from a reader, James, and my answer to him? 

Seems like I’ve been writing a lot about this part of Mexico living and saving. It’s only because I’ve been getting so much interest shown in the subject.  I have received numerous emails questioning or confirming the practicality of heading to Mexico for dental work.  This particular article is in response to Jame’s email to me – which was very short, but deserved as thorough an answer as I could give:  “I’m retired on SS. Worried about cost to have several implants done. Impossible here in Fl.  Any info appreciated! James”

My answer to James:

“Hi James – Know just exactly what you mean. About 4 months ago, I had two implants started – in Algodones, Mexico. That means I had the bone in my jaw drilled to accept a screwed in “screw” – that in about 2 more month’s time will hold the finished “teeth” that will be glued onto the screws that are on the right rear of my mouth. The six month’s time gap is because the bone in my jaw will grow around the screw and secure it and then the top “pretty” tooth can be put in place and at that time, I will have what is actually a new tooth in my head – well, I’ll have two new teeth – back right side. They will then be treated just like a real tooth – brushed, cleaned, and used to chew!! I’ve been chewing only on the left side for a while now – can’t wait until I can chew properly again.

“The price of an implant is usually divided into two sections – mine was $600 each for the drilling and the screw, and then will hopefully be no more than $175 for the finished teeth. Quite a bit of saving, when you see the advertisments around for implants.

“When I first checked into implants, almost 11 years ago, the price in Arizona was $9,000 (no typo) each. Dick and I went to a seminar, well-attended by people with real problems – why other would anyone be interested in such an expensive project? And I think the most disgusting part of that whole evening was when the dentist conducting the seminar convinced a gentleman – I’d guess his age at 78 – to have his whole mouth done with transplants. The gentleman said he couldn’t afford to have that done and the dentist’s reply was “Don’t worry about that – we finance”. This gentleman was going to his grave (in my opinion) with a mouth full of teeth after making exhorbitant payments to those dentists who were going to charge big interest on that loan, and still have huge bills to pass on to his heirs…how sad – and how disgusting that a dentist would even suggest such a thing!

“That was the begining of Dick’s and my exploring the possibilities of Mexican dentists – and we are very happy we can take advantage of those possibilities. So – guess my answer has grown into a seminar itself here :)

“I did have a lady in Florida, several years ago contact me – through this site – and ask about dentists – just like you. She decided (after receiving the info she asked for) that she would bring her daughter on a cross-country vacation, get her dental work done in Mexico, and still have money to put in her pocket, when she compared the cost her dentist had quoted her and the amount she would have to pay in Mexico for the same stuff.

“You do have to remember that implants will take two trips to the dentist. But, I could take one heck of a vacation on a whole lot less even than $9000. I’m sure the costs of implants has gone down, but last time I checked they were still several thousand each. Good luck. And – read all my articles here about dentists – you’ll feel better. Barbie”

p.s. There are “mini” transplants that may take only one trip – check them out when you’re at the dentist – they are even cheaper, and from what I’ve read are just as strong and substantial as the regulars.

Implant Dentistry Article by Barbie.

Prescriptions,

and Opinions

How about some email today from retirees who have already made the leap and moved their homes to Mexico?

I’ve tried to present varied email, different locales, different experiences – all brought to you to make your transition easier.

Again, I say, you won’t find yourself being ‘one of a kind’, When you become a retiree and live in Mexico – you’ll find many, many people who will welcome you with open arms and “show you the ropes”, once you’re there.

January 2011

“Hi Barb!

“My husband & I are now the happy owners of a condo in Mexico! I am so excited about going down & enjoying our new home away from home!

“After reading all of your informative & enticing newsletters and visiting Mexico a few times, we finally get to enjoy what you have been telling us about.  Jan B., from California”

June 2011

“Have tried to get into your website this a.m. but with no success. Could you please change my new email address on your email newsletter list to enable me to still receive your wonderful newsletters. Thank you. (Barbie:  I did put the new email address in my files.)

“Now, I have news of our move to Mexico:

“January to March this year my husband Trevor and I spent in the Lake Chapala area, checking it all out, doing a lot of homework, met up with Charlie who gave us some good information. Also managed to secure a house to rent that would be waiting for us whenever we came back which was fully furnished and equipped.

“We fell in love with the area, went back to Canada to hopefully sell up and move to Ajijic. Our intention was to be back in the area around September. Well guess what. We are back within two months and one week!!!!!!! Our condo sold in three weeks, with a month possession, what a busy time we had. We sold all our furniture, got rid of a lot of stuff (we only have 6 boxes left in storage at our son’s house) and we are now settled and enjoying life in the Ajijic area

“I guess it was all meant to be. The Good Lord was looking down on us that’s for sure. We are renting a very nice house 10 kilometers west of Ajijic in the country, up on the mountain with a magnificent view of the lake and a lovely garden. It is wonderful waking up to the sound of the birds every morning. Of course the weather is great too.

“Having read all your wonderful newsletters, you certainly gave us food for thought on moving to Mexico, and cannot thank you enough for all your hard work and all the information you put into your website.

“God Bless and thank you once again.  Sincerely, Glynis B”

June, 2011

“I am so happy to get the newsletter. My computer sites were hacked last fall and I have truly missed your letters. I have some questions that I hope you can help me with:

“I am having big problems importing my prescription drugs from Texas to Playa del Carmen. The first time I tried sending them on UPS, they were held up for 3 weeks in Mexico City before I even knew what was going on and eventually were returned to Texas.

“I have gone online to investigate about obtaining permits, I have been to the aduana at the Cancun Airport, I have now retained an attorney to help me find a way. I take 8 or 9 prescriptions for various old age maladies

“I have a doctor in Playa that will give me prescriptions and can get most filled at the Walmart or Sam’s pharmacies. However, they are expensive and in the states with Medicare and a supplemental drug policy, I get them free except at the first of each year which saves me a lot of money.

“So far, I haven’t had problems bringing them in my luggage when I fly back down from Texas. But, I can only get a 90 day supply every time. Considering the high cost of a couple of the meds, I am thinking about going to Texas every 3 months to get the refills and bringing them back with me personally. (Barbie: This is what I suggest they do, plus he should ask his doctor to change his prescription for double the dose – then, he will have a 6-month supply.)

“The attorney that I have suggested that I get my doctor to write a separate prescription for each med and provide a cost for each, which I have done last week. Soon, we will go to the aduana in Cancun airport and present the paperwork to customs to show them how much it would cost me if I don’t utilize my benefits to purchase the drugs.

“Do you have any suggestions that might help me get the drugs imported. I went to your prescriptions and permits blogs and there wasn’t any mention there for me. (Barbie – again, try for the double prescription – explain the situation to your doctor – and go back north only twice a year.)

“If you have time, I would appreciate any info or help you can give me to assist with this problem.  Sincerely,Tom C”

January 2011

“Thanks for all the information on Mexcio. Your e-book was very helpful. Thanks to it and a visit for the month of October, we are moving to Lake Chapala area at the end of February, 2011. Less than one month!!!

“ In about two weeks I will have a different e-mail address. If you want it just let me know. (And I did – Barbie) And thanks again for the good tidbits, do’s and don’ts etc.

“Our friends from British Columbia just moved as well. He was having some chest pains before he left but the BC doctors gave him a clean bill of health. When he arrived in Mexico things got worse. He ended up having triple bypass surgery in Gudalajara. It went very smoothly. They gave the BEST and quickest care they have ever seen. In a new clean modern hospital. He may not be alive if he was still living in BC. So Medical care is superb in Mexico.  All for now. Marlene”

2007

“ We feel that the Merida area is a relatively reasonable area to live in. Housing in Merida is reasonable, the beaches are great and probably some of the cheapest in Mexico near a large city with all the conveniences.

“We have travelled a lot in the world looking for beach front property and the north coast has some of the most reasonable prices although the prices are going up as this area is getting “discovered” by Cdn’s and Americans. We love the area and we think it is very reasonable.

“I think I mentioned Taxes were $8.00 for the year for a near townhouse on the beach.  If you need any info. on this area please let me.  Lance B.”  (Barbie:  Prices went up, and then came back down, and they still are a bargain compared to the U.S. of A’s prices for homes…and actually some real bargains are available now, what with the whole world being hit with the little – what do they call it?  “Slow-down in the Economy?”  I call it a recession.)

2011

My answer I wrote of someone who questioned the safety or wisdom of buying property in Mexico, and wondering about some of the horror stories they had heard concerning owning in Mexico – and specifically about the government taking properties back from foreigners:

“The story is true – the facts have gotten quite distorted. This happed a few years ago, on Baja, California Sur, Mexico.

“The reason: the people who “bought” their land there did not do it according to Mexican law.

“Pretty much the entire Baja (low) is and has been in the “forbidden” zone – you find the specifics on that in my book. Boils down to – you must have a Trust to legally own the land within so many k’s of the shore and the border.

“The people – yep, mostly Americans, of course, either didn’t know (why not, I’ll never understand), didn’t care (that’s just plain dumb), or thought they could get away with it … because they are Americans – well, guess what – they didn’t get away with it. I have no sympathy for them – they should have checked before buying something in a different country – anyplace!!!! So – that’s the rest of that story :) “

 Locations, Prescriptions and Opinions Article by Barbie

to the Dentist

in Algodones

Just received this note from Middle Son, Steve, through Skype, about his Dental Experience a couple of days ago and thought immediately I need to share it with my readers:

“Hi Mom, I wanted to send you a quick message about how happy I was about my 6 month check up and my last trip to the Gator Dental Group in Los Algodones, Mexico, near Yuma.

“I made my appointment with Rosalba, one of their receptionists, who speaks perfect English, earlier in the month at (928-377-4562).  I keep one of their Gator Dental Group business cards in my passport, both for ease of access and to remind me to take my passport with me.

“Since it is summer time, their business is kind of slow, so I had my choice of days and times.  I made the trip from Los Angeles in good time through the beautiful Imperial Valley again.

“I got an early start and arrived ready for yet another adventure in Mexico in the early afternoon.  After parking in the designated parking lot on the American side, and walking a short distance, I was heartedly greeted at the front door of the office by Leo, one of the young men who hand out the dentist’s business cards as you go by on the street, and who is a great translator and who also acts as a host for the Gator Dental office, My friend Leo greeted me and I was ushered straight in to the dentist’s chair.

“I had one little chip in the back of my front porcelain veneer and the dentist asked me if I wanted it replaced.  I thought it could just be patched so that’s what he did.  A quick patch and a clean exam and I was finished with the dentist in about 15 minutes. And I was only charged $30.  A fair price I thought for the service.

“Since I had the rest of the afternoon and didn’t have to meet my brother Chris until later that night, Leo took me next door to the Green Room Bar and Grill, where I enjoyed a couple of beers and many, many games of pool in the cool air conditioning!  I was careful and didn’t have too many beers because I did have to drive to Phoenix, plus in the heat, drinks can affect you differently, especially if you get dehydrated in the heat. So I drank bottled ice tea too.

“I had a great afternoon of playing pool with all of the guys who normally run the numerous businesses of the town, at the many dentists and optometrists in Los Algodones.  After saying my goodbyes to the guys and to my host Leo, I grabbed a sandwich, chips and cold bottled water and my allotted liter of Kahlua at the Purple Pharmacy on my short walk to the border crossing.  I was the only “Norte Americano” going back home that day in the heat so I had no waiting to cross – this is when you must have your passport – to enter the United States of America.

“So I had a great experience at Gator again.  Much thanks to Rosalba, Leo and Doctor Edgar, for another inexpensive dental checkup and fix.”

Additional from Barbie: there are many, many dentists and opticians in Algodones, and lots of pharmacies to boot…so plan on taking care of a couple of your needs with one trip if possible.  Every penny saved is a penny earned – and I don’t know about you, but it’s been a real long time since Dick and I got a raise in our Social Security – so – make those pennies stretch!  Here’s more info about Dental prices in Mexico:  Click here and Click here. 

Dentist Article by Barbie

Holy Cow!  I just discovered something!!  I had to run out to the garage – where I can almost always find Dick working on one project or another – and have him come in to see!   

Adobe Reader will now  read any PDF file out loud to you!!!  And that includes my books that I have for sale on site: Retire In Luxury and Money Saving Mexico , and my children’s book:  Jo’s Big Question - and also, all of my Free Reports which you can download free from my sites.

First of all, you need to download the latest version of Adobe – that’s free at:  http://get.adobe.com/reader/

That program will then reside in your computer.

Next, bring up a PDF document…such as one of my books, or one of my newsletters.

At the top of your screen, you will see the Adobe options.   Go to “VIEW”.

It has a drop-down menu, so select “Read Out Loud”, and it will say “Activate Read Out Loud”.  Select that too.

Then, select “VIEW” again, and under that, now select “Read Out Loud” again, and to the side you will have options to: 1. Deactivate Read Out Loud, 2. Read this page only, and 3. Read to end of document.  So, select which option you want.

Now, go back to the PDF document or file you have opened, make sure you have your speakers at a comfortable level, then just lean back and enjoy – ‘cause the durn computer thing will read the whole thing to you – ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!!!  What a world!!

And, if you haven’t found these sites yet, try them:  You can download free classics at:    http://www.planetebook.com/ You can also download for your Kindles, your pc, or your IPod’s – totally free books at:  Amazon.com 

Absolutely the right price for all of us retirees!

PDF, Free Books article by Barbie

Planning for Your Retirement 

In this article, I delve into two important concerns you’ll face during retirement:  Vehicles and Finances.  

You’ve got to admit, those are two pretty important items.  I’ve even included a chart so you can get started realistically planning your retirement.

VEHICLES/TRANSPORTATION

You most likely will easily be able to do with only one car during retirement.  Now, don’t  sell your extra vehicle and make this decision immediately – it may take some getting used to. Try using just one car for a couple of months.  Keep one vehicle in the garage and locked up, so you’re not tempted to use it, and see if you can manage.  Wouldn’t you rather spend that insurance money you’d be paying for that second car on another little side trip? Try it – you may like it.

You will learn to schedule your comings and goings.  And remember, it’s not just a car payment you’ll save– it’s insurance, and all the upkeep.  If you’re lucky enough to live in a retirement  community or some such secure area, you’ll probably want to get a golf cart for getting around – they’re fun and oh so economical!  And don’t forget the wonderful exercise you’ll get if you decide to take your bicycle or even just  walk  to the nearest store for that loaf of bread.

FINANCIALLY

Realistically, it will be great if you have a decent amount of savings put back to supplement your Social Security.  Some people are lucky enough to even actually receive pensions from the companies they worked for.  But there are a lot of people who don’t have a pension coming in…we’re in that group. We always knew our retirement life-style would be contingent upon what we were able to put away during the working years.

There are people who make it in retirement, living only on their Social Security – perhaps due to big losses in the stock-market, their work-place going bankrupt, illness, etc.

I have a chart in my book, Retire In Luxury, that actually has the figures and compares living expenses where we lived just before retirement, with those expenses we would probably experience in Mexico, during retirement.

Actually, during the time Dick and I were exploring everyplace, in order to decide where we would spend these precious retirement years, we had charts for everything – and we even had a chart about what we wanted in a house – what would be really important to us – what was necessary and what we’d like but could do without– we really are detail folks, I guess…works for us.

So, anyway, here’s a sample of the chart – feel free to copy it and fill in the blanks with you own info – it’s a good way to start truly planning you upcoming retirement:

As you see, I didn’t list Car Payment nor House Payment – I’ve said over and over, get the car paid off – get rid of your credit card debt – try to get your mortgage paid off – if that means selling and buying a small home, so be it.  I’m sure everyone’s list will vary, but this is a pretty good one to use as a base – it’s a good way to get started planning for your retirement.

Retirement/Finances & Vehicles article by Barbie.

You’ve come to www.moneysavingmexico.com and now, you can peruse at your leasure, the questions  you’ve wondered about – such as:

Can you use Medicare in Mexico?

How do you prepare for retirement?

Will you receive Social Security if you move to Mexico?

Can you be legally married in Mexico?

Do you need permits to live in Mexico?

Are there any North Americans living in Mexico?

How can you buy a home in Mexico?

Is it safe to take my pet to Mexico?

What kind of expenses will you find in retirement?

Are the doctors in Mexico really doctors, and how is the healthcare in Mexico?

These and so many important questions are answered for you, in plain, easy to understand articles written by me, Barbie.  You’ll find pictures and videos of different towns in Mexico, such as Ajijic, San Agustin, and many, many more, ready for you to learn about and enjoy…Just look at the list on the right.

You’ll even find stories about Mom and Dad’s (mine and Dick’s) Surprise Xmas Tree, Mardi Gras, a Baja RV Trip, Preparing a Will, Singing the Oldies, and I’ve barely scratched the surface of the informative pages I present to you.

Over 100 articles ready and waiting any time of the day or night for you – all written by Barbie – so enjoy.

- VISA -

New policies…

…for people moving to Mexico were announced in May of 2011.  Changes should be expected to take effect in late summer of 2011.  Since it took nearly a month for local and regional INM offices to digest and implement the May 2010 changes, it’s a good assumption that it will probably take another few months before the dust settles on this round of changes.

There will be no more FM2′s nor FM3′s.  There are no more stand-alone categories such as Non-Immigrante and Immigrante.  Tourist and other Visitor requirements have not changed much. For the Tourist, you’ll still fill out and use the Visitor’s Permit (FMM), available at the border, from the airline or ship as you travel.

Replacing the FM2 and FM3, are four categories:

Visitante: 6 Types: Non-Working Visitors (tourist), Working Visitors, etc., 180 day limit.

Residente Temporal: (old FM2 and FM3), 4 year limit per visa, Work Permit possible, Leave and Re-enter as many times as desired.

Residente Temporal Estudiante: Covers Student Studies.

Residente Permanente: Several types: Covers the old “Inmigrado” and a few special “No Inmigrantes” (the old FM3s for asylum seekers & refugees), and it appears to cover working “Inmigrantes”. It allows indefinite stays with no need to renew and includes the right to work.

Mexico will introduce a new Points System for permanent resident applicants who would like to be granted residency before the standard four year temporary residency requirements. Points will be awarded based on level of education, work experience, skills in areas related to the development of science and technology, international surveys, and the skills to develop activities that are required by Mexico.

Affecting Ex-Pats:

1. Permanent residency can be granted after four years of Temporary Residency.
2. Permanent residency can be granted after:
1. Two years of marriage or common law relationship with an Mexican citizen, (with that marriage recognized by the Mexican Government by registering that foreign marriage with your Registro Civil), and
2.  Two years of Temporary Residency in Mexico (concurrent with the marriage).
3. Permanent residency can be awarded with less than 4 years of residency, if the applicant qualifies under the new Points System.
4. There will be new ID cards, called “Tarjeta de Residencia” .

It is required that the INM issue implementing regulations within 180 days from May 25, 2011.  BUT…There have been no formal announcements yet of when the new changes will take effect.  All current applications and renewals filed before May 26 fall under the old rules, just like they did with applications and renewals filed before the May 2010 changes. All current Inmigrado and No Inmigrado visas (FM2′s &FM3′s) will remain valid until their expiration dates (see your “Vencimiento” on page 7 of FM2′s – Fecha de Caucidad,) and people holding current FM2′s and FM3′s will only have to comply with the new rules when they apply for renewals under the new system.

At that time,

For a Tourist Visa, you will:

• Fill out Visa Application form.
• Apply at the Consular Section in person from 8:30 am to 11:30 am, Monday through Friday.
• Valid passport and one photocopy of the pages containing personal information, the photograph of bearer and expiration date/extensions.
• Valid US visa for multiple entries; at least with 6 months of validity at the time of your filing and one photocopy.
• Valid I-94 and/or I-20 or J1 or I797A Form in original and one photocopy.
• Letter of verification of employment or Financial records (the last three months of your bank statements, or pay stubs, or credit card statements and the actual credit card) with one photocopy.
• One (1) front view passport size photos, no glasses.
• Payment of Consular fee 36.00 dollars. (cash only).
• Applicants, under 18 years old must present a notarized authorization, signed by both parents or by the one not travel with the minor and legal guardians, granting their permission to get their tourist visa.

And For Retirees, you will:

• Fill out the Visa Application form.
• Apply at the Consular Section in person from 8:30 am to 11:30 am, Monday through Friday.
• Valid passport in original and one photocopy of the pages containing personal information, photograph of bearer and expiration date/extensions.
• Two (2) front view passport size photos, no glasses.
• Payment of the Consular Fee: 134.00 US Dollars. Cash Only.
• Proof of economic solvency: Applicant must prove a monthly income of $1,000.00 USD dollars, or equivalent in Mexican currency.
• Police letter clearance
• If the applicant will be accompanied by members of his immediate family, the minimum income required will be $500.00 additionally per month for each member 15 years of age or older.
• The documents accepted as a proof are:
  Last three months of Bank statements, Social Security Statement or Pension Receipts; such documents must be notarized and bear the Apostille Seal (see linked info) issued by the Secretary of State of the State where the documents were notarized.  

Please note that the Consular Officers may ask for additional information at the time of the interview.

US Citizens can travel to Mexico without a visa or consular stamp on the passport. It is important to bear in mind that you should always travel outside of the U.S. with a valid US passport or travel Document.

Foreigner of any country, who is a permanent resident of the United States or Canada, can travel to Mexico without a visa or a consular stamp on the passport. However, you should always have with you a valid passport or Travel Document plus the US Resident Alien Card (Green Card) or seal I-555 or Immigrant visa, Permanent Resident Card (Canada).

Read another Visa/passport article by Barbie at http://moneysavingmexico.com/mexico-visas-passports/permits/

Visa article by Barbie.

Hi Everyone – Just wanted to share this with all of you.  It’s a short film of our dog, Griffon, eating corn on the cob.  Now, don’t get upset with us – this is truly a rare treat for him.  Corn is probably not the best thing to feed dogs, but this little guy really loves it, so once in a long while, he gets this treat.  Like it’s said by everyone -” If I do come back, in the next life, I’d like to be someone’s pet!”  Griffy truly lives a wonderfully happy  ”dog’s life”. …Don’t miss the Dental info below!

Dentist Info

Then, also need to up-date you on eldest son’s latest trip to Algodones Dentist:    Richard had to stay overnight in Yuma, but he had  four root canals with posts, and 7 crown, for the grand total of $1260… and that also included his wife’s work – think he said she had 4 cavities fixed.

So, what can I say – I’m so glad we all can make it to a dentist that we can afford!  I was just told by a friend that he checked the cost of a root canal in the Phoenix area and was told it would be $1400…suppose that included the post and the tooth to cover it.  They headed to Mexico too and had their work done there.

Hope you are all surviving the summer weather!  Sure it’s hot – it comes every year :)

Best to you all.  Barbie

Just to let you know – I’m researching the new Mexico immigration laws – trying to get things into plain English.  Will be putting an article together soon.

Dentist and Doggy Article by Barbie.

Cataracts, Cholesterol & Prescriptions…

…In case you haven’t already guessed – this blog is not for the “younger than 25″ folks out there :)

I just saw a commercial for Niaspan!

About a month ago, I went to my eye doctor in the States, just for a yearly checkup.  I had been wondering about cataracts because almost everyone we know have had “the” cataract operation, including Dick.

Well, they found the faint appearance of a cataract – not anything to bother with yet.  But they also found, after a thorough exam, some small traces of plaque (cholesterol) on the back of my eye.  I was told it’s nothing to worry about, but they want to keep an eye on the situation, and that I should see my primary doctor with that information.  She, my eye doctor, could actually see the minuscule spots with her little magnifier (She showed me the pictures too) when she was checking for other abnormalities.

After some tests at my primary – docs in the States do love tests – I was given a prescription for Niaspan…my doc said Niaspan actually can help “dispel” plaque… and that would be a good thing – not only for my eye.

So, off to the drug store in the States, where I dropped off my prescription and told them I’d be back the next day to pick it up.

The next day, we headed over to pick my new medication up – Niaspan.  When the druggist handed me my order, he asked, “Do you know what the price of this prescription  is?”  Of course, I said, “no”. And with a hint of  embarrassment coming to his face, he replied – $202.87 for a three-month supply – and that was my with my insurance.  To which I replied “You have got to be kidding – is there a generic?” “No, not in the States,” he quickly came back with.   I handed the sack with the prescription back to him and said that I needed to go home and think about that.  “No problem” was his sincere reply.

That evening, I just happened to call my son, and the subject of my trip to the drugstore  came up.  “Mom, Niaspan is nothing but niacin and you can get it at any store”.  So, I started to check that info out, on the computer.

It is true there is no generic for Niaspan – won’t be until 2013.  BUT – Niaspan is basically nothing but time-released niacin. And probably now is as good a time as any to type in my disclaimer – you know – I’m not a doctor – I offer no medical information, but, if you’re interested in learning about a B-complex vitamin, I offer this – just my opinion:  Niacin is a B-complex vitamin.  Niacin is part of a coenzyme needed for energy metabolism and helps maintain healthy functions of the nervous system, digestive system and skin.  Niacin is used to reduce the amount of cholesterol and certain fatty substances in your blood. (That’s what I was interested in.)

Now, you can choose to take plain Niacin which is available over the counter, but you will probably have “hot flashes” or sudden “flushing” – gentle hot flashes.  But, if you buy your Niacin over the Internet, you can find Time-release Niacin for a whole lot less than I was quoted by the druggist, and most likely you will not experience the hot flashes – and who needs those?

I take my pill in the evening before heading to bed, and have not experienced any problem from the heat sensation.  One son took plain niacin and he said he was really plagued by the hot flashes.  He then ordered the time-release version and the hot flashes disappeared.

I got my time-released Niacin in Mexico – 100 pills (over three month’s supply) for $24.95.  Thank goodness for Mexico – but, for those of you who can’t take advantage of Mexico, there is always the Internet.  Good health to all of you.

Cataracts, Cholesterol & Prescriptions Article by Barbie

On a Scooter :)

Yes, I got a scooter.

My back has caused me problems for years.   I guess I was born overweight…a healthy 10-pounder – how did my Mother live through that?  She was a little lady – probably topped 5’1” at her best.  Anyway, it seems that I have been on diets my whole life.

When I was around 11, my sister and I were on yet another diet – and exercising like mad – I was in the middle of one session and doing some pretty frantic twists and I twisted really far and really hard and I remember hearing my back go crack, crack, pop, crack, pop, pop – and I’ve been plagued with back problems since. 

So, after years of chiropractors and doctors and pills, and in more recent years, two surgeries, (by then, the arthritis had also taken it’s toll on my back )  I needed some help getting around.

It was really brought to the forefront when we went on a cruise, just a couple of years ago with friends.  I thought as usual I’d just “tough it out”.  Was I wrong…I truly couldn’t keep up and do the things I wanted to do and see everything I wanted to see (I also just hate to miss anything).  So, Dick and I, just after one day, went to the help desk on ship and rented a wheelchair for me.  I just hated the thought of giving in, but, the four of us had really big plans – no one wanted to miss anything – and I wasn’t living up to my promise of showing them everything.  I hadn’t even considered a scooter yet.

Just giving in and getting that wheelchair was a major concession on my part.  I just hated to admit I needed help like that.  But, the next day, as I was wheeling along – aided by three healthy people who seemed quite happy to take turns pushing me – all at once I began to see things in a different light. 

Of course, the cruise had taken us to Mexican ports and this time, the four of us discovered that most of the “handicapped” attempts of making passage easy were hilarious.  Mexico is trying, but it seems they just don’t understand that if you go up a 45 degree angle and immediately go down a 45 degree angle that some people can get completely stuck on the pointy top – rocking back and forth, even with someone pushing a wheelchair… and that having a nice inclined sidewalk for 20 feet really doesn’t quite solve the problem, when there’s two 10 inch steps at the end.  I must say, we all probably ached more from laughing than from the stress of pushing a chair.  Mexico is trying – they just don’t have it quite right yet.  And luckily, I can still just jump out of the chair, have Dick and friends lift the chair over the obstacles and continue.  Lots of people are not able to raise from their chairs so easily, and that’s keeping lots of people from fully enjoying…not just in Mexico, but in most countries…just try being pushed three blocks over some cobblestone streets in Italy or someother exotic shore – not a pretty picture.

Me and my scooter at a border

So, anyway, now there’s a take-apart motorized (electric) scooter – chair – whatever you want to call it, that resides in our garage.  I don’t need to use it in the house – I can still get around in that respect well, it’s just needed for shopping and traveling.  I must say it’s quite wonderful – goes about seven miles on a charge and comes apart into five easy to put together pieces –the heaviest piece only weighs about 28 pounds and it takes probably all of a minute and a half to put together, turn on the key and take off with Dick and my scooter, to see the next exciting, wonderful sights that are out there. 

Scooter article by Barbie.

March 30, 2011 – Epsilon.com’s personal info was compromised.

The personal info that was obtained by an unauthorized entity, was only email addresses and/or customer names of Epsilon.com

Epsilon does the dirty work of e-mail list management, upkeep and complaint interference for household brands around the world, including Disney, Capital One and Kroger.  Most consumers have no idea that Epsilon has their e-mail and name — the e-mails generally appear to be from a retail firm with which the consumer has a business relationship. That relationship usually begins with a simple check box on a website or a form filled out during a retail store purchase, but it can last for years. -msnbc.com. There is a full investigation underway, but as of yet, no one even knows who was responsible.

My problem, and the reason I want to tell my readers about it, is that I immediately started receiving emails after that incident,  that looked as though they were from Amazon, Paypal, Target, Walmart – and lots of others.  The email are cleverly disguised as coming from legit businesses, and they have just enough info – such as your name or your email address that you think it’s actually coming from someone you trust.

This process is known as “phishing”.  Phishing - a fraudulent attempt to get you to provide personal information, including but not limited to, account information – has been going on almost as long as the Internet has.  The way you are “phished” could be a convenient link embedded in the email that takes you to another site that may also look legitimate, but needs some specific info from you – such as your address, or your bank account number.  Don’t even click on the link in the first place.

When I receive any email requiring me to answer a question or any that I am in the least bit suspicious of, or possibly one that says my account will be shut down if I do not immediately respond, I immediately go to that actual site such as www.amazon.com or www.paypal.com and well – all the others – and have always found  that there was no problem and my accounts were fine, and the email didn’t really come from any of the places I may purchase something from anyway.

So, if you are aware, all you need to do is to ignore those email – right?  The problem is that this goes on all the time.  And, are you going to remember to be careful when you receive one of those emails in two or three years?  Or are you going to go ahead and click on the handy link?  Perhaps even enter the name of your favorite pet, or your Mother’s maiden name??  NO!  Don’t do it.

At no time should you give anyone any personal information – especially in an email.  They do make it very convenient for you to give them information that could be devastating to your financial future.  You don’t even need to put a stamp on the envelope – you just have to click and….. well, hopefully all of you will heed this warning and remember.

If you receive a notice from your bank or utility company or a store through the email -  just give them a call – at a number you know is theirs.  Better yet, stop in and see if everything is going alright.  You make yourself known, and you’ll have no reason to wonder about an email.

This advice came from one financial institution:

Personal Info Article by Barbie 

I must start by saying, La Paz is in Mexico.  So is Cuernavaca, so is Ciudad Victoria, so is Oaxaca, so is Morelia, so is Mazatlan, so is Acapulco.  You would look long and hard not to find a beautiful cathedral in almost all Mexican towns.  In La Paz, in the middle of town, you’ll find the Cathedral of Nuestra Senora de la Paz (the Cathedral of Our Lady of La Paz) near lots of art galleries and shops along cobblestone streets.  Since La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur, and also the largest city, you will find the Government Palace and the Legislative Palace.  La Paz is a cultural center having a University, theater and a number of museums. The per capita income is among the highest in Mexico.

La Paz is located on the east coast of the Baja, along the Sea of Cortez, in a large, natural  bay.  Tourism is the first ranking source of income for La Paz, and because of its location on the bay and Sea of Cortez, fishing ranks second.  Health care is perhaps the best in all of Baja.

North Americans have not overrun La Paz, and estimates of four thousand to nine thousand Expats are reported in the area.  I tend to think closer to four thousand or under.  The total population of La Paz is somewhere between 150,000 to 200,000.  Whichever, it is a large city, but has managed to retain a small town feeling of original Mexico for the most part.

The weather in La Paz basically is nice – if you enjoy the hot, sunny climates with some evenings cooled off by the ocean breeze – and who wouldn’t enjoy that!  The hottest months will be summer – July, August, and September…when you will definately appreciate the air conditioning.  Because the Baja peninsula is getting pretty narrow at this point, tropical storms can sometimes affect the weather, but that season is only during the summer and early fall seasons.  The mountain chains that run down the Baja are getting pretty gentle at this point, so the terrain around La Paz for the most part, is easy to travel – even good to bike and walk.  Sunsets can be spectacular – but, again, so many places in Mexico can claim the same thing.  Everyone enjoys the wide, beautiful malecon that runs for miles along the water.  So much nicer than places in the States, where you have to fight to get to the ocean, through the mazes of huge hotels and resorts.

As in all big towns, you will find the large food markets plus chains you’d expect – from Soriana to Sam’s and Wal-Mart.  But, for real bargains, the place to shop is in the native stores – get really fresh fish – the tastiest of vegetables – from the people who catch them or grow them.

Transportation to La Paz includes:  Air, with the La Paz (PAZ) International Airport, just a few miles out of town;  Highway, Mex 1 is the main highway that vehicles and buses travel south from the American border, with the “Green Angels” (read about them in my book, Retire In Luxury) patrolling the entire distance; and by Water – drive onto the Ferry for a trip across the Sea of Cortez to the mainland and Mazatlan and Tompo Lobompo.  La Paz is about 100 miles north of Cabo San Lucas at the tip of the Baja.  You can also dock your own boat at one of the many, many facilities along the shore.  Just about everything that arrives into the lower Baja comes by ferry from the mainland or down Mex 1.  La Paz is a major port.  The Baja peninsula is about one thousand miles long, running from just south of San Diego, California to Cabo San Lucas at the bottom tip.

The North Americans and Europeans who live in La Paz can choose to live comfortably and inexpensively or live a life of the rich and famous – It takes all kinds.  But, an average Expat’s lifestyle on a modest income easily can include a nice home and a maid.

As a general rule, you will find living on the Baja cheaper than in the states, but usually higher than many other parts of Mexico.

To wrap up this blog, here’s another email from a very happy retiree:

Hi Barbie, Hope all is well with you and Dick.

Thought you would be interested to know, we have just spent eleven weeks in Ajijic, Chapala.  What an amazing place, fell in love with it, weather  fantastic every day we were there.  You can at least plan a family reunion three months in advance and know what the weather will be doing!!!!!!  Where can you hop on a bus and take a 20 minute ride to the next village for 7 cents one way?  Cost of living we found extremely cheap compared to Canada.  Found the Mexican people in the area so friendly and wonderful.

We had the pleasure of meeting a great dentist, doctor and rheumatologist during our stay, and were very impressed with their knowledge, care and the cost.

Through your contact, we met up with Charlie, (I have deleted Charlie’s last name – Barbie) what a great guy he is.  He drove us to the south side of Lake Chapala to San Luis Soyatlan where he lives.  We had breakfast together, then he drove us around the village and took us to see his house. What a great place he has which he pays $225 a month rent for.  He gave us some very valuable information which we are very grateful for.

We arrived back in Canada this morning and are now making plans to  move to Mexico.

Keep up the good work, your information has been so helpful to people like us.

Border Crossing

La Paz article by Barbie

You know by now you’re not alone in wanting to move to Mexico – to become an Expat yourself – so read the following emails I’ve received, and you’ll be even more ready to put your plans in action!

Pelicans fishing

Hi Barbie, I’m the lady from xxxxxl,TX I wanted you to know that I have moved to Yalcoba MEX.
I just got a new e mail address ,It is bobbyxxxxxxxx.
I want to thank you for all your information you sent me. May I ask where you live.
We had to sell every thing because no Moving Van WILL CROSS THE MEXICAN BOARDER.
I had to buy a computer here and the key board is not like the states I can’t find the question mark or space etc. on this board. Thanks again. Hoping to hear from you.
And, then a little later, after I did inform this Expat of a few firms who do move people into Mexico, I received this email: 

Good afternoon:
Well here we are in the Yucatan. I guess it will take time to get used to there ways and counting peso.
Can you tell me, can we buy a pickup here and put the title in both our name? 
In one of your letters you said something about people over 50 could get a card for discount on busses and tours etc. can you tell me where I can get a card?  I am 81 and my husband is 86 years young. Thank God there are people like you who can help us old folks.
I bought a computer here and I’m still having problems with the keyboard.
Thank you so much, Barbara B.  (I did give Barbara B. the info she was wondering about – Barbie)                    

Strictly for Tourists

Hola Barbie, Things are good here. I live in a small valley in the interior where it 85% every day now. We are well into Summer-type weather. I just love it here. When you say cold weather, I say no way.
I am ready as I can be this year for the holiday season. It is in full swing here with Christmas trees and decorations everywhere.
Hope all is well with you. I will read your new info. about Mex. today.
Wishing you a very HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON !!!!!!  Kamili

Calm Sea

Barbie, Last week I returned from 2 weeks in Mexico, and 5 of the days were spent in Guanajuato and the rest in Melaque.
After this first ever visit to Mexico, I am definitely going to retire there in the next 2-4 years, so I am going to pay attention to your site.
The biggest thing I learned was that I am an ignorant American. I am literally embarrassed. I will be doing a ton of self-education before I move.
My next trip is already planned and it will be from mid-december to mid-january.
After 2 more winters I will be retiring there, no doubt in my mind.
Thank you all your on-line work!, John  (I told this “Future Expat”, John to make sure he reads all the free articles here on my site – Barbie)

Hi Barbie, I really appreciate your email and information.
I spend nearly 2 months last year in Playa Del Carmen and enjoyed my self but also had dental work done. Three root canals and then crowns and three implants and crowns. Price lower then anywhere and they could not have done a better job in USA.
I will email you with information.  Bob

From happy Expat Friends living on the Sea of Cortez:  Barbie, we already have found OUR paradise right here in Mazatlan! :-*

Practical bamboo shade from the sun

Hi Barbie, I was in Mexico in the states of Colima and Jalisco for one and a half months. I found numerous places for sale away from gringos, so they are by far cheaper. I can live in Mexico for under $1000.00 a month, The only trick is not living in gated communities, and cook as the locals cook. I did contact two real estate offices and they wanted to sell gated community homes. I found that driving away from cities and asking locals, had the best results. I will start to live there four or five months a year next January.
Traveling around on vacations in Mexico for the last ten years has been a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s just about time to stay a vacation. When I turned 60 last summer I retired.  Happy trails and all of that.  Greg  (This Expat did take my suggestion about checking with locals!)

Hi Barbie – thanks for sending the info on Mexico — I’m hoping we can get to San Miguel de Allende next year — I play jazz piano and a famous trumpet player (Doc Severinsen) has retired to that area and there’s is quite a large jazz scene there – so that’s the logical place for us to try the one-year test.  I’ll get back to you when the move date is closer.  John

Hi Barbie, Doug here in Canada.  Long time no hear and nice to hear from you today.  Interesting letters came in from you. Our son and his wife are leaving and have a business in Merida…they love it/. We are going down for a visit this fall and maybe buy a property as they have
Kind regards.  Doug

Hi Barbie,  Wow it has been awhile since I started getting your books and newletters.  May I tell you that I use them all the time.  I have been here in Mexico for 3 years now.  Cant believe it !!!!!
Well every now and then I have to refer back to your book if a question is asked of me by one of my friends.  I went there recently to look up information you had on the Money in Mexico, great photos.  But my books and newsletters are gone !!!!!  My computer was fried several months ago, so I’m taking it that I have lost my books also.  Can you tell me how to get it back?   Just bought a new ClickFree back up system for my computer, it works like a charm, but I’m trying to get back some of things I have lots. CAN YOU HELP PLEASE.  (I did – they have my book back and everything else now.)
Loved the newletter on Mexico insurance.    Will be looking into that also,  Thanks
Oh yes, I’m sure you know, but is there any information on the “OLD PEOPLES” card, lol  that you can travel around Mexico for half price?  Been hearing about that.  
Stay well.   One of your friends out here in internet space somewhere, Sherry ,where it all began.  lol  

A busy corner

Hola Barbie:  We have been living in Ajijic for about 6 months.  We love this place.  We bought a condo in Puerto Vallarta 5 years ago and have traveled to the Lago De Chapala area a lot since buying our vacation home.  Last year we made the decision to move to Mexico permanently and found a wonderful home in Ajijic.  No regrets.
I wanted to make a few of comments regarding some observations I’ve made so far while living full time in Mexico.
1. Americans and Canadians who are impatient and unwilling to adjust to the Mexican time table should go home.  They are miserable here and should get out.
2. So far the rudest and most UNFRIENDLY people we’ve come upon are older Americans and Canadians.  What’s wrong with a smile once in a while?  If you are miserable here, then go back!
3. Mexico is NOT the huge bargain it once was.  If a person is moving to Mexico, just to save money, then they need to stay home.  Coming here for financial reasons is the wrong motivator.  You will be miserable.
Finally, I’d like to remind people that even with permanent imigrado status, we are all still GUESTS in Mexico.  The Mexican people are kind and warm.  Most of them have a different value system, than most people from the North. Punctuality is variable.  Family, friends, the joy of life are far more important than waiting in some stupid line. 

Finally, I want to say to my Northern Associates…”Get over yourselves”.  Mexico, the Mexican people and I will all survive without you.  Stop thinking you can make Mexico into a cheaper version of where you came from.  It isn’t going to happen.   Christian

Shopping

 So, some of these folks are already living the life they wanted in retirement – are you making your plans to become an Expat?

Pictures

Dick and I recently took a cruise.  You already know about that, because I told you about the tree that was waiting on us when we got back – just 5 days before Christmas.

Ship from port

We first went to Progreso, which is basically there because the city of Merida needs a port. Progreso, about 55,000 in the area, has grown mainly due to the cruise business, and now has some very reasonable hotels and rentals along the coast.  You can get your usual souvenirs at the shops around the dock.

Here’s a pictorial trip through and around Progreso and Merida. I do want to say, again, Dick and I felt so safe in these areas, our experience throughout was most comfortable and enjoyable.  (Click on pictures to enlarge)

Progreso Pier Shops

4 1/2 mile dock of Progreso

Merida is the captal of the state of Yucatan, and the largest city too.

Lots of beautiful white structures

Wonderful wide roads at Merida

The population of Merida is almost one million, but it doesn’t feel as though it’s that big.

Merida is a beautiful, well-taken care of community.  Of course, just like any big city, there are areas the tourist is not going to head to.  But, the historic area, which is huge, is lovely.  Limestone, found in the area, was used predominantly for building, thus, Merida is known as the “White City”. 

Limestone for buildings

The Homeland Monument in Merida

A busy city corner in Merida

A neat way to “discover” the city is to take a bus. The cost to ride one of the many city buses, for seniors, is 6 pesos, approximately 48 cents.

You will need a “CITUR” (Credencial Inteligente de Transporte Urbano), issued by the state, if you plan to stay there for a while, to prove you are at least 60 years of age or it may cost a bit more.

More white homes

Street scene in Merida

City tours are available, and are great, especially if your time is limited.

There are many reasonable homes for sale in Merida for under $150K.  Especially if you want to fix one up, you’ll find some real bargains way, way under $100K.

White and blue home

The bright colors of Mexico

Yucatan Pictorial by Barbie.

Ruins on Cozumel

Yucatan

Dick and I took a cruise out of New Orleans to visit Progresso/Merida and Cozumel/ San Miguel de Cozumel. It was only a five-day cruise, with two days in ports, so it was quite a fast trip – lots to do – lots of info to secure. There were weeks of preparation ahead of time. This said, it was a very worthwhile trip.

As you all know by now, we had lived in New Orleans and I wanted to do some revisiting just for fun. That’s why, late one night when I found what I felt like was a real deal for the cruise and it was out of New Orleans, everything just seemed to click. Truthfully, some of my goals were to have some wonderful seafood from that area again, and to enjoy a hot, thick cappuccino from our favorite place there.

We accomplished those goals and then, headed onto the ship at the Port of New Orleans. I must admit, it seemed as though we had already had our vacation – just getting to New Orleans to begin with. We have found cruising a very pleasant way to see some places and just really rest up, usually. If you can find a cheap enough deal, when you consider what you spend nowadays on motels, hotels and food, and especially gas, a cruise can be a pretty good buy.

Now, we’re home again… that’s always the best part of any trip, back to our own bed, our own shower, etc., etc. So, here’s a brief peek at what went on and my impressions of these areas of Mexico, the Yucatan peninsula, and the Mexican states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo.

We docked in Progreso – basically the town along the coast where the resorts and tourist stuff is found with the malecon (seawalk) winding along the shore.

Soft milky blues and greens of Progreso

The ocean here, as I was told, gets it’s strange colors, a milky mixture of greens and blues, due to the shallowness of the water there. The sand from the shallow bottom gets mixed with the water and so reflects the different hues – there is a softness about it that has a beauty of it’s own – but, it’s not at all the crystal clear water you find at Cozumel.

From the malecon and docking area, we traveled about half an hour to the city of Merida– a big, lovely, modern city of about one million, and the capital of the Yucatan. I want to stress that Dick and I felt as comfortable and safe there as we do in any larger city in the United States of America. Yes, we’re careful, downright cautious actually, but we felt welcome and safe there. Albeit a very short trip, we saw lots of different areas and took lots of pictures.

Then, onto the ship again, and on to the island of Cozumel, and the major city on the island, San Miguel. The mercaco here is wonderfully big – long – all filled with places to buy souvenirs of all kinds – from the articulated lizards to diamond earrings – I was drawn to the latter. You could take a whole day just wondering in and out of all the stores there – even if you’re not planning on buying a thing. Very pleasant. The weather was perfect, and so my plan to rent a convertible V.W. Bug turned out to be just right. I must say, Dick’s an excellent driver – knows all about those stick things in non-automatic cars – thank goodness, because at times, it was all he could do to keep the darn thing running – we had lots of laughs in that beat-up buggy – because Dick was mucho patient…with the car and with my laughing.

The water here is beautifully crystal clear and the colors were just breath-taking. We traveled through many parts of the town and even had time to see one of the Mayan ruins there – most interesting – and enjoyable.

One instance confirming our safety – Dick and I had maps of course, of Cozumel – it’s an island – you can’t really go very far, so we were just enjoying the day and driving through different neighborhoods…Dick concentrating on keeping the car running.

When we stopped at one of the many stop signs, a man suddenly jumped up from where he had been sitting on his porch – and came running toward the car. We stopped completely and when he caught up with us, he said, rather than asking…”You lost?!”

Well, at that point we sort of shrugged our shoulders and with a smile, said “Probably”.

The gentleman explained in broken English that we were headed to the coast of the island where there were high wind advisories for the day and that cars shouldn’t be going there. He told us to turn around and led us back to the “tourist” road – where most people drive. We thanked him and sure enough, when we did finally returned the bright green Bug, the proprietors said, “you are lucky you stayed away from such and such beach – very dangerous – high tides today”. So, again, Dick and I felt protected and secure in a new land – the beautiful Mexican Yucatan.

Yucatan Article by Barbie.

First things first…

Hope you had a very wonderful holiday season, and Dick and I wish for all of you a very joyful New Year!

I received an email a couple of weeks ago from someone planning to be in Mexico next year for Christmas, and they asked “Do we decorate a palm, or a Norfolk pine?”  I told them to do both.

However, this is the first time in our married life, that we didn’t put our tree up.  Since we went on a cruise and weren’t going to be home that much during December, we decided not to put it up.  Our tree usually takes me about 3 days to finish.  I’m just plain fussy about where each ornament hangs… that takes time to hang, see how it looks, and then possibly rehang an inch to the left or whatever, and that is after I “Oh!” and “Ah!” over each one that means something to me – and that’s most of them.  So, this year, no tree. 

But, about two weeks before we headed out, Dick walked into the kitchen hauling many, many boxes of “just a few things to put around the house”.  So, we did do that.  And I must say I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the decorations up every day before we left. 

Then, about one week before leaving, one of the boys said “Do you have your lights put up outside?  Do you need help?”  Now, they knew we weren’t putting any up – we thought.  But, undeterred, he continued, “It’s going to be pretty obvious you’re not at home if you don’t have your usually lights displayed”!  He was right.  So, out came the boxes of outdoor lights and up on the cactus and plants across the front of the house – and I have to admit, it did then look like Christmas. 

So, off we went on holiday, returning on the 20^th of December.  All the way home, we kept telling each other that it was just too late to bother putting a tree up – we both agreed.  But, the way we kept bringing it up on the way home, it was pretty apparent to both of us that the tree just may make it up. 

Imagine our surprise and joy when, the evening we finally got home late at night and walked in the front room,  there was a lovely – about 4 foot tree in a beautiful pot!  It was decorated brightly in lights and red sparkling ornaments!  Sons do wonderful things sometimes!!!

Now, I know that next year we will decorate the larger tree, but our new “love” tree will always take a place of honor – you can bet on that!

Right now, the house is ready for company to help us bring the new year in. Everyone is bringing in a dish – we’re doing Coney Dogs –  what we call hot dogs with chili – complete with shredded cheese, onions, relish and everything else you can possibly pile on a hot dog bun.  And we have the mandatory candy and salty stuff and lots to wash the food down with.   All the Christmas decorations have been stored away waiting quietly for next holiday season … but our little tree is sitting proudly in our entry way…still is shining brightly… and will probably be there for quite a while to come!

Wishing you all the best for the New Year!  Barbie, Dick and Griffy

Xmas Tree Article by Barbie

Surprise!!  When you enter retirement …your paycheck is gonna stop!

Now, that’s just about the scariest thing most of us are ever going to contemplate.

But, don’t panic…

there’s a whole lot of us out here in the world of retirement, doing just fine.

Now, that may mean you need to find a place that offers cheaper living – that’s why I offer so much info about Mexico – a wonderful place to really make your pennies stretch.

But, even before retiring, why not take some positive action – I’m betting you and your partner both really don’t need a phone in your pocket along with a land line in your home.  Remember back when everyone could actually wait 10 minutes to tell you something “important” or ask an “important” question – like “what did you have for breakfast this morning?” …until we were face to face?  I do remember a time when asking such mundane questions seemed – well really needless.  I remember a time when communication actually was something worth saying…

Anyway, consider your expenses you have now – try turning off the lights when you leave a room, or at least turn off a few of them.  I personally don’t like walking into a dark room, but the lovely glow of one lamp makes most areas feel welcoming.  And we’ve changed almost all light bulbs to the funny curly ones.

Car expenses – uh-huh – 2 cars may make things convenient for you.  But have you actually tried scheduling trips to save on gas and auto expenses like tires even, to when you really need to turn that key on?  …Especially if you’re actually already retired!

You can sort of ease yourself into a comfortable retirement if you just check out your expenses before that day comes.

Another personal experience – Son was complaining about stretching his paycheck.  So, we sat down and wrote out his expenses.  Hum – looked like he shouldn’t have any problems from the list…  Any more little expenses you’re overlooking possibly?  “Well, I usually stop a couple of times day to get a pop or a cold drink, but that’s only about a buck each time”.  Now, this son is a very bright guy, but just really never caught on to what a penny is – nonetheless “a buck”.  So, on paper, we discovered that if he just stopped doing that and grabbed a couple of cans from his refrigerator and carry them in a little cooler in his back seat – he was looking at saving way over $50 a month.  He was amazed…geez.

coconut palm line streets

And he was carrying a balance on one of his credit cards – oh my brain is aching now – Pay it off !!!  If you do the soda thing,  you’ll have approximately $60 a month in your pocket instead of in Mr. MasterCard’s pocket…use that to pay off your credit cards!!!   Seems his paycheck, after going over things one at a time was going to allow him to actually put a couple of bucks back for a little vacation – surprise!

So, sit down, look seriously at your expenses – see where you can cut back before retirement!  Then save those couple of bucks toward your retirement years – you’ll be so glad you did.

You will have to face expenses any place you choose to retire – but, if you choose a place like Mexico, you can do it with a smile on your face!

Hope you have all had an enjoyable and filling - Thanksgiving Day!  How could it be almost Christmas already??

Someone put the brakes on!

Time is just going entirely too fast!!We had almost everyone show up for Thanksgiving, and just so I didn’t have to do everything on “The” day, I made a huge homemade lasagna a few days in advance.  Dick and I also cooked a turkey with dressing, and we also did that a couple of days prior – then, on Thanksgiving day, we simply sliced the turkey up, presented the lasagna, and enjoyed… much easier!  I also made Chris’s favorite cranberry relish and everyone’s favorite – baklava! 

Condo in Mexico

So, now, tonight, it’s time to come up with a new article.  It’s always a question as to just what I’m going to write about – I really seem never to know - until I sit down at the computer and just start typing.  

Think tonight, I’ll touch on costs – after all, isn’t that possibly the top concern for all of us?  Whether we’re trying to live only on Social Security and make that stretch over all the necessities, or living on $500,000 and making that stretch over lots of debts and expectatons… we all should strive to make the most of what we have.  Dick and I hit a lot closer to the first group, but I do think making the pennies stretch is a great thing to do – after all, “waste not, want not!” 

If you are moving to Mexico and plan to buy a home there, you will be concerned with the everyday expenses, things like taxes, utilities, etc.  If you are planning on putting the profits from selling your home into an investment and renting in Mexico, you will still face utilities.   

Just enough garden to enjoy

And, either way, you will probably also want or need some paid help once in a while, so, here we go:   

For help around the house, if you want or need it, that is usually based on the hours that are worked – you can count on about $2 U.S. an hour – but many times, $4 a day is all that’s required. At times, if the help does something extra, you can add a few more pesos, and if they have been with you a long time, that has a bit of a bearing also on their wages.  

If you are a good shopper/bargainer and follow my advise of not living and acting as a big-time American – you can find quite acceptable rentals for around $200 a month.  Flash your diamond ring, or fancy watch, and the price for the same place may be $600 a month – of course, location is a variable too.    

Let’s base our figures on a home valued at $150,000 in Mexico.  A good average to count-on amount for taxes (city, state and federal) is approximately $200 U.S., per year.  This does vary around the country, and can be lower or higher, but will not vary a lot.  (currency exchange rate)

For two people, in a modest home in Mexico, you should plan on about $30 to $50 a month for electricity – year round.  Of course, this also will vary slightly, depending on where you live – whether you need or want to run the a.c. a lot or not, and other variables – but again – this is a good average.   

Propane, to heat your water, will probably run about $20 a month.    

Almost a necessity - the computer

Anyway you look at, when you face the facts, you can live better for less – you can retire in luxury – if you decide to make your new home in Mexico.   

 In my book, Retire In Luxury, I have budgets for before Mexico, and after, for Dick and me.

…Maybe a good thing?

Purchasing Restrictions for North Americans

As of October 2010, Mexico decided to try to stop or at least slow down illegal money laundering.  Mexico now wants foreigners to pay for all purchases/spending in pesos – the money of Mexico.  

You are now limited to exchanging $1,500 U.S. per month for pesos…if you’re exchanging your currency for pesos south of the border.  I can’t believe there are records kept, so what would keep you from going to a couple of different cambios, I don’t know.  

As of October 2010, Mexico decided to try to stop or at least slow down illegal money laundering.  Mexico now wants foreigners to pay for all purchases/spending in pesos – the money of Mexico.  

But in a few areas, actual purchases are even capped at $100 per person.  There have been instances of vendors refusing to accept U.S. dollars at all – those, I’m sure those are few and far between…but if you run into them, it would be real nice to feel those Pesos in your pocket available.  

US Airways is not accepting U.S. dollars in Mexico facilities, at ticket counters. And, well, they just might be killing the golden goose, ‘cause you can’t even pay for your luggage handling unless you have pesos – so, sorry, fella – no tip today!  Jet Blue and American airlines has similar restrictions.  

If you’re a visitor to Mexico and just want to have pocket money – for tips, a couple of drinks or a meal, a few souvenirs, then it’s easy enough – just exchange your U.S. dollars for pesos – at a bank, the cruise ship you’re traveling on, at the airport, etc., before getting into Mexico.  Once you’re into Mexico, go to a bank or any of the many casa de cambios (houses of exchange), 

Just to be on the safe side, if you want to maybe buy an expensive trinket or something in Mexico, you are going to have to pay in either traveler’s checks, credit card, or pesos…no greenbacks.  

So, we’ll see what happens with the enforcement – who knows, maybe it will slow up the money laundering…in that case, it’s a good thing. 

And anyway, $1500 a month sounds like more than enough to me! 

After all, that’s the equivalent of about

15,000 Pesos!

AN EMAIL ON DENTIST COST

Hola (Oh-la) Everyone,

I received an email from Tony this week – this is his response, and my reply to the dental situation and living and working in Mexico:

Dear Barb,

I am writing in response to your e-mail about low dentist cost.

And you are right.  I am having my teeth done now as we speak.

(Okay, I am not in the chair, but I am under a dentist’s care)

I lost my four front teeth back in 2005, and had not wanted to do anything because the dentist wanted to charge me $4500, ABOVE AND BEYOND what the insurance was going to pay!

I am paying $9000 pesos ($900 USD) for the bridge.  I am thrilled to know I will have teeth again, especially since I now have a teaching job, teaching English to the people here.  The pay is low, but the experience is exhilarating.

I REPLIED:  Hi Tony – Good For You!!!  Would love to hear more about your teaching experiences – so many people ask about that – I’ve written many times about the pay in Mexico – some people just don’t get it.  But, if I can pass even more info along – well, we try.  Barbie

Dentist Info by Barbie

When Dick and I began our discovery trek about retirement, insurance and health care popped near the top of our concerns list.

 I’ve had many email asking for info on the health care and facilities in and around Lake Chapala, so here’s this week’s article for your perusal:

We retirees seem to fall into two main categories when considering the direction we will go when moving to Mexico – Service persons and Civilians.  And then, there are subcategories such as those interested in private insurance plans, strictly using cash, veterans, civilians, Mexico’s national health care, etc.  Here, we’ll touch on the Lake Chapala area, and more specifically, veterans and civilians. 

For service men and women, you may qualify for free health care in Mexico.  The way I understand it, in order to qualify for benefits under the FMP you must have at least a 10% service-connected disability rating from the VA. The program is designed to pay 100% of all charges for medical care associated with VA rated service-connected disabilities or for care for anyone who is participating in a 38 USC Chapter 31 rehabilitation program while living or traveling outside the U.S. – check with your VA’s Foreign Medical Program.

A fun, friendly place.

For us others – the Lake Chapala area has many English speaking general practitioners and specialists.  Many work out of clinics that offer emergency, short-term hospital care, and out-patient facilities, and the everyday care we may need.  These clinics are almost always associated with Guadalajara hospitals.  Both the Red Cross and the major hospitals have emergency ambulance service to Guadalajara.

Usually, the hospitals offer private insurance, and of course, there is IMSS that is available to almost anyone.

In my book, Retire In Luxury, I tell of how Dick and I explored health care in Mazatlan.

Puerto Vallarta…

… in the state of Jalisco, in the country of Mexico, has an estimated population of 350,000, of which approximately 50,000 are expats from Canada or the U.S. of America.

Our Lady of Guadalupe in El Centro

Laying along the western, border of the mainland, about one thousand miles from the U.S./Mexico border,  P.V., or Vallarta, as it is often called, is nestled between in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain chain, which runs 2/3’s of Mexico to the north and south, and Banderas Bay (Bay of Flags), on the Pacific Ocean.  The Cuale River flows west into the ocean at P.V.  

Vallarta lays totally south of the Tropic of Cancer, so summer days are warm to hot and humid – but remember that great ocean breeze.  Winters tend to be mild.  Of course, you will have the occasional hurricane and the occasional noticeable earthquake.

The beaches in and around P.V. may not be the very best for swimming, but, for an afternoon of just enjoying the water and relaxing, they are beautiful.  There are many public beaches convenient to drive to.  There are a couple of beaches that are good for snorkeling, and a couple for just playing around, because of the gentle waves.  All beaches are public, even when there are expensive resorts built there, the beach is open to all.  You may even spot some whales out in the water!  And like every costal town, for strolling and relaxing, there is the Malecon, bordering the downtown area, along the oceanfront – visit it day and night – don’t miss the wonderful street performers and music and nightlife. 

Where the "Night of the Iguana" was filmed

At Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find every convenience you’re used to:

 high speed internet, and big box stores, including Wal-Mart and Sam’s.   There is every thing from upscale shopping centers, open air markets, theatre, internet cafes, art galleries and golf courses to corner taco stands. 

Although Puerto Vallarta is a rather recent discovery of expats, the city has grown quickly, and along with the growth has come some pollution and traffic conjestion  – not unusual.  But along with that comes relaxation, enjoyment, patience and friendship, and sometimes, some great bargains, and of course, the chance to make your pennies really stretch…every day.  

I mentioned P.V. is a relative late-comer to tourism – that was mainly due to Hollywood in 1963.  A Director, John Huston, choose P.V. to film “The Night of the Iguana”.  That production starred Richard (Elizabeth Taylor) Burton, Ava Gardner, and Deborah Kerr – they were biggies!  And, the press, due to the film, introduced P.V., as a wonderful place for fun and – well, whatever you want.  Now, tourism is still the number one income generator for P.V., with fishing and agriculture coming in a distant second.

Dick and Me on the Malecon

There are bargains waiting if you’re a good hunter.  The economy did a flop in Mexico, same as it has in the U.S. and Mexico overbuilt, same as in the States.  You can probably find even greater bargains in some of the surrounding small villages such as Bucerias, Melaque, Gayabitas, Punta de Mita and San Patricio – you will not be living in N.A. Expat conclaves in those villages.  Mexico is offering mortgages now, some 30 year offerings and even some fixed rates.  You’ll usually need between 20% to 50% down.  MortgagesinMexico,  Mexlend, and Conficasa Mortgage are a few institutions to start checking out if you’re interested in financing.  Hopefully, in retirement, you’ve already paid your mortgage off, have your car paid off, and are really ready to enjoy life.

Iguana on roof top

Hopefully, in your retirement, you won’t need to work, but it that’s what you enjoy, you’ll find as usual, time-share and real estate are open to outsiders in Mexico.  There seems to be a growing population of retirees who are even opening their own businesses in Mexico – usually having to do with the arts.  You’ll need to follow all the proper steps that are required, but, hey – good luck to you!

Puerta Vallarta by Barbie.

Fuel for your vehicle in Mexico

By now, most of you are probably convinced you really can live for less in Mexico.  Here’s a little more info just to bolster those who already are leaning toward having more in Mexico and maybe to confirm to those who have make the decision to head south of the border that they’ve made the right choice.

PEMEX station

Gasoline, fuel, petrol…whatever you call it, when you convert gallons to liters, you’ll find it is now cheaper in Mexico.  Exception is that on the border, prices are going to be higher.  So, tank up before you cross the border, and hang on until you pass those border areas – then tank up again.

The gasoline station where you’re going to buy fuel to put in your car is owned and run by the Mexican government.  Price controls dictate what you’re going to pay.  Pemex stations are easy to recognize, with their Kelly green color with red trim and white lettering (colors of the Mexican flag), and the signs will say “PEMEX”.

You will find three types of fuel available –

Regular unleaded, called Magna; Premium unleaded, called Magna Premium; and usually Diesel.  The stations do not take credit cards, so have your pesos ready.

Truck traffic

Other than in the larger cities, you will not find the quantity of gas stations you are probably used to – in Mexico, you are not going to find one on every corner.  So, do keep an eye on your fuel gauge – it’s best to get gas when you see a station – or at least, when your gauge goes below 1/3 full.  Oh – and you won’t be pumping your own gas – let the attendant handle that – after you have made sure the pump has been cleared of any prior balance.  Then, you’ll want to give the attendant a peso or two as a tip – he’ll most likely clean your windshield too – it’s someone else cleans it, give them a peso too – no more – remember the minimum DAILY wage in Mexico is approximately $5 US dollars = 50 peso.  So, don’t try to ruin the economy – tip one peso.

You will probably find a bit lower fuel prices in Sonora (runs from the border down the Sea of Cortez coast), the Baja (possibly because of all the tourists), Quintana Roo (Just north of Belize on the Yucatan Peninsula), and Mexico City (maybe Sam had it right – quantity over quality?).  Just a hint – truckers usually know where to get gas – so, pulling in behind a truck at a station may be a good idea.

Liquid measures:  1 litre = 0.264172052 US gallons     ergo…     1 US gallon = 3.785 litres.

Fuel Article by Barbie.

de Allende

An Upscale Mexican Haven

Not every one of us are looking for cost-cutting retirement, and for those lucky folks who aren’t worried about their finances, there are also great places in Mexico to live the next part of their lives.

San Miguel de Allende may be one of those places for them to consider.  San Miguel as it is often shortened to, in the state of Guanajuato, in Mexico’s central mountain plain, is a picturesque, culturally diverse city.  It’s located about halfway between the cities of Léon and Querétaro, with Mexico City a 4-hour drive to the south, Guadalajara a 4-hour drive to the east, and the Texas border 10-hours to the north, the location is a delightful change from the warmer, more tropical, sea level coastal communities. 

Hilly Street

Real estate in and around San Miguel, especially where expats have settled, has appreciated over the years same as other areas of Mexico, though, bargains may still be found. And, with the lower taxes of Mexico, and the expensive bountiful native foods, you’re bound to save, even if that’s not your main goal.  For those who are so inclined, San Miguel may be the perfect retirement spot you’ve been searching for.

The moderate weather in San Miguel is what entices a lot of expats.  The humidity is low with an average monthly rain fall of around half an inch.  The temperatures are cooler than you would find at the coast areas, due to the high altitude of about 6,400 feet.  At the same time, you also need to realize that due to that altitude, some retirees may not feel their best.  If you have a blood pressure problem, you may find, especially at first, there just seems not to be enough oxygen in the air.  Though most of the year the weather is just about perfect, you’ll need a nice warm jacket for some of the cooler winter evenings. 

Cathedral

With a growing metro population of about 140,000, of which 10,000 are expats, residents are proud of their relatively low crime rate in this Mexico community.  Albeit, the added population does very often create traffic problems, especially in the heart of the city, El Centro.

Welcoming artistic endeavors and apprecianados, San Miguel offers musical venues, art galleries, historic landmarks, libraries and art schools.  If crafts are one of your passions, you’ll spend days browsing the Mercado de Artisans or any of the many shops that line the winding cobbled streets of lovely San Miguel.  

At Tuesday market you can find fresh food from the locals, from snacks to gourmet items.  Residents do shop in nearby Queretaro, where there are mega malls along with Wal-Mart, Sams’, Office Max, GNC and the usual fast-food of Domino’s, Dairy Queen, KFC, McDonald’s, Subway and Chili’s.

For health care in San Miguel, Hospital de la Fe, a modern, private hospital, can handle most normal health needs.  General Hospital, a few blocks northwest of the central plaza, is staffed by U.S. emergency physicians, who work with the Pan-American Collaborative Emergency Medicine Development Program.  Only 40 minutes away, the city of Queretaro has health specialists in most areas available.

Conveniences include telephone and high-speed internet, and all the usual amenities expected by North Americans, including golf, tennis, spas, and hiking. 

Airports that serve San Miguel include Aeropuerto Internacional de Queretaro at Queretaro, about 75 minutes from San Miguel; and the international airport Aeropuerto del Bajio, between Leon and Guanajuanto, about 90 minute’s drive.  Shuttle service is available at both facilities. Flying into Mexico City’s Benito Juarez Airport is another option for those of you wanting to visit and maybe make your new home in San Miguel.

San Miguel Article by Barbie.

Banking in Mexico

Citi bank partners with  Banamex in Mexico,

Bank of America partners with Santander Serfin.

ATM and other services are usually reciprocal between the Mexico based and American based institutions.

Ready to hear another happy retirement story?

Joe and Shelley recently moved from Seattle, Washington, U.S.A., to Ajijic, in the state of Jalisco, Mexico.

One interesting thing about the many email I receive from people already living in Mexico is their seeming lack of worry about their safety – just because they are in Mexico.  Most expats have found that living quietly in Mexico, the same as living in the States, and taking necessary and wise precautions, helps to keep them safe – where ever they are.  I’m sure everyone of them are just as cautious as they always were in the States, or any other place they’ve visited or traveled.  I know Dick and I are.  We get info (research, research, research), we plan, then, we enjoy…Just the same as Joe and Shelley are doing:

nice ironwork

“Barbie, My wife and I came down to Ajijic (Lake Chapala area) in early May of this year (2010). I’m 67 and my wife is 52. We decided to come to Mexico because I wanted my wife to “retire” along with me, and it would have been too expensive to do that in Seattle. My retirement income is quite generous, around $3500.00 a month, so we didn’t have a lot of concerns about being able to afford living here.

“Our primary motivation for the move was to free ourselves of having to work, in order to do the things we really want to do. We are not interested in lying around, soaking up the sun and drinking margaritas, although we can do this if we want to, and we do enjoy a drink now and then. We wanted to be released from the self imposed prison of our chosen professions so we could do all the things we would really like to do without worrying about the treadmill of going to work, paying too much for living expenses, and commuting to our jobs. Simply driving to work and back was taking, my wife, Shelley 15 to 18 hours a week.

“We are now becoming well connected to the community in Ajijic, and are busy doing the things we have always wanted to do. Shelley works 4 hours a week volunteering at the dog shelter in town. She loves animals and probably should have been a vet all these years, instead of running a welfare office.

tree "houses"

“To address her need to get her hands in the dirt, she, and I, are volunteering at a small farm nearby that is working to educate the community, by example to change to organic farming methods, in order to increase their income and develop a sustainable ecosystem in our area.

gotta love those colors

“I belong to a writing group, and we meet every 2 weeks to share our writing projects and offer feedback to others in the group. Many of the group members are already published writers, and are willing to offer practical advice on how to get our work out there.

mangos, melons, bananas

“My interest in ethnic cooking is being met by shopping at open markets to find, hard to get, items that I can use in my recipes. I can then expose my friends and neighbors to food pleasures that they have never tried before. We are now free to add to or limit our activities to whatever level and direction that we choose. That is what I call freedom.

“The point to all this is that we are now free to pursue all the things that we have dreamed about doing in our spare time for decades. And, as we settle in further, these interests will expand to areas that we haven’t even thought of yet.

“Now, all this freedom doesn’t come without a price. We have had to leave behind many long and wonderful relationships, and we miss our friends and family dearly. However, we have a computer, and e-mail is a simple and wonderful tool for keeping friendships alive and growing. We now have 5 groups of family and friends who are scheduled to come down and visit us in our new world in the next 5 months. Not only can we help to keep their travel costs to a minimum, by welcoming them into our home and lives while they are here, we will also be able to tempt them into following our lead and, someday, joining us in paradise.  Joe”

To read more about Ajijic, just look over to your right, and starting up at the very top, and then scrolling down, you will see five groups of listings:

• “Recent Videos”,
• “Recent Posts”,
• “Recent Comments”,
• “Things I Write About”, and at the bottom,
• “More Articles”.

Go back up to “Things I Write About” – that’s a really long list, and, towards the top, alphabetically, you will find “Ajijic” is the 2nd under that listing.

Just click that, and start reading.

You will probably see many other items and areas you will want to read about – it’s all there for you, 24 hours a day – anytime you want it.  Enjoy, Barb.

Ajijic article by Barbie.

In Mexico?

Last week, I told you about my friends Shari and Dan who retired to Baja (click here to read about it).  Their story is amazing, inspiring, wonderful — but it’s not unique!

Retirees really are living better for less.  In fact, here is yet another “Mexico retirement success story” from Ronald G. He emailed me last week with some beautiful pictures and he has been kind enough to allow me to share them with you. Here is his email (I’ve edited and consolidated it for brevity.):

Ronald’s Mexico Retirement Success Story:

“Barbie, I hope this finds you well.  I wanted you to know that this last winter I made the big move to Mexico, partly because of your faithful newsletters.

CLICK TO ENLARGE: Ron's kitchen.

“I have a gorgeous home which I am still decorating to my liking — 3 large bedrooms, each with outside verandas, two full baths — one up-one down, a brand new laundry room containing my new Bosch washer and dryer.

“I enjoy a full “gringo-style” kitchen.

“The house is 12 yrs old, built by the owners, a wonderful couple retired from Continental Airlines  — they have home in La Puenta, CA, and here, and Chapaa.

“Regarding their house:  it backs up to deep lush yard with golf course lawn, several fruit trees, cilantro, chilies, roses and many other varieties.

CLICK TO ENLARGE Ron's House (front)

“The rent?  2,500 MP a month / gardener 70 pesos every 2 weeks, maid 100 pessos once per week.  In essence I feel very “wealthy” for the first time in my life at 67 years of age, because my monthly living costs are 10 percent of my income.  Pretty good ratio?

“Wonderful people here — quiet and quaint puebla — within 2.5 hours of Guadalajara, D.F. Morelia and Guanajuato.  We sit on a water abundant area, next to Camecuaro.

“If you’d like to peruse my personal photos Barbie, feel free.

“I do hope you are as impressed as I am — mind you, the pics of the house were taken before I moved into it. I’m certain you find the best properties for the buck when you veer away from vacation destinations, or places that have large populations of gringos and Canadians. “Tangancicuaro has about 10 American families…maybe more – I keep encountering “new” ones at Walmart in Zamora.

By the way I was asking if you were impressed with the “life package” I managed to work out.  I can’t emphasize enough how far smiles and interest and general friendliness will take you in assimilating into a small town here.  I love it!

“Please feel free to use any pics, etc. for your newsletter, Barbie.

“All the best for the time being… Ronald G.”

CLICK TO ENLARGE: Back Yard

Why put it off when virtually anyone can enjoy an abundant retirement with luxuries and amenities that — usually — only the rich enjoy… a life of abundance, prosperity, luxury. Stress free living is just that: completely stress free… and you don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy this kind of luxurious lifestyle.

Over 500,000 U.S. and Canadians are living and experiencing the rewards of retiring in Mexico right now — this very minute.

CLICK TO ENLARGE: Tangancicuaro Main Street

For many North Americans, retirement means waiting… waiting until you have enough money… waiting for that one day.

The Dallas Morning News has reported that as many as a million U.S. citizens now live in Mexico. These people are living in Mexico and enjoying the beauty, culture and cost-savings this affordable country has to offer. Yes… Dreams of retiring to an exotic locale, complete with sun-drenched beaches, a high-standard of living, and plentiful recreation…. is no longer a dream; it’s a reality — and it’s within your reach, too.

You can have it all. Ronald’s story proves that!

What do you think about Ronald’s Mexico Retirement Success Story? Isn’t it amazing?? If you have any questions or comments, feel free to ask. Simply use the handy “comment form” below. If you don’t see it, click on READ FULL STORY and scroll down to the bottom — and feel free to browse the entire site. There are hundreds of questions and answers to share with others, just like you, who want to know more about retiring in Mexico.

And now, email from someone who has gone through the process in Mexico, and finally, on the Baja: 

A few years ago, I received my first email from Shari.  She and her husband had read my site, and were considering a move to Mexico in their retirement.  These email tell the tale – from the beginning of just thinking about it, to researching, and then actually taking that big step – enjoy: 

An early email from me, after replying to a couple of questions concerning Mexico and the Baja:

You can buy auto insurance at the border

“Hi Shari & Dan,
Thanks for the neat reply :)  The Lake Chapala area is huge -  there are expensive and less expensive areas there – takes some exploring to find what each of us wants.
I know your apprehension – yes, it’s scary – but hey – the roads run both ways – so go and enjoy the experience.
That is so nice that you will be much closer to your son in Ca.  (Barbie=Since by now, they had decided on the Baja.)
Let me know how you find Malibu.  Do be careful of the water…as you should anyplace.
Keep in touch!  Barbie” 

Then, a reply from Shari after I had posted an article about the gentleman who wrote and didn’t find Mexico that much cheaper – he had purchased a home there for $375,000 and couldn’t comprehend how anyone could live on $2,000 a month:  “Interesting email from “Jim L”….especially liked your response, Barbie.  I would imagine, Ajijic is more costly; perhaps, than some other areas in MX?  It would make sense, that anyone whose home in MX is valued @ $375K+ would not be able to live on $2000+???!!!!  ‘No brainer,’ as far as Dan and I are concerned! 

“Barbie, you already know Dan and I are beginning our MX ‘semi-retirement’ cautiously, but with great excitement…we’re going to Baja Malibu…how cautious can one get?!  We have been researching/reading ‘your’ materials for over a year now…we got from you a most important message….”research, research, research…and then, ‘try it’” (something) out!  That is what we are going to do…we already know the area.  We just need to ‘live and experience’ it…to determine if MX is ‘it’ for us!  

“In short; Barbie, this period of time is:  scary….exciting…and we are consumed with all kinds of emotions, questions, anxieties, etc.  Dan and I will be on a limited income…we will have to work at ‘some things’ part-time, but (thank God!) we are still ‘young’ enough and healthy enough and have the energy to do that!.  We will be closer to our son!!!!  He and we are sooooo looking forward to that!!!!  “Thanks for all your info!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Our Best to You and Dick, (would like to think we’ll meet one day!) Shari & Dan (soon to be Baja Malibu!)” 

In Mexico, often even the kitchen cabinets are basically stucco.

And a bit later after a few email questions and answers between us:  “Got it, Barbie.  Thanks much!
“We are living amongst boxes – have out only the things we need for the next 3 weeks.  “Dan put our Menaje de Casa in Excel (we’ll finalize it before leaving and have it ready for the MX Consulate in San Diego for our FM3′s.)  I numbered boxes as we went.  Sent it off to the man in San Ysidro who will be moving our things across.  Dan has already told me that he does not want me to be part of that process – at the border - whatever day it happens!  We have heard and read such horror stories.  Hope ‘our’ story of the final move will be a good one… 

“Received initial approval for our Sentri Passes.  Have our P.O. address in San Ysidro. In short, we are progressing! Thanks again for thinking of us, Barbie!!!!  We’ll keep you posted.” 

“It’s a very very very good feeling to finally have communication with the outside world after a week without. 

“Our home is settled…comfortable and inviting. Just have tweaking of things which we’ll do during the days ahead. Have more pictures to hang, etc.  

“(Son), of course, was our first overnight visitor last Fri.  Friend Ryan (lives in TJ) brought him – Dan cooked dinner and we enjoyed a wonderful evening! Son slept in ‘his’ room (aka guest room) and slept great.  It was wonderful having him here and we hated to see him leave.  But, he’ll be back soon! He wasn’t surprised what we’ve done here and loves it. 

“Yesterday we potted some flowers.  Today I ‘gardened’ – worked on clearing away debri and dead leaves, etc., from a strip of succulence about 30′ long at the side of our house.  Will do more tomorrow.  Efran is working on installing a washer and dryer for us.   He also complimented my ‘gardening’ – said it looks wonderful. 

“Anyway, lots of stories to tell you and pictures to send as soon as Dan gets them on here.  We’ve worked hard and accomplished so much in one week.  But; as y’all know, come 6p and our showers have been taken, martinis mixed and it’s cocktail time on the upper patio.  Truly a piece of heaven……More later, Love ‘n hugs to all, Shari & Dan” 

And shortly after: 

“Bueno el dia familia y amigos! (aka good day family and friends!), 

“Don’t get too excited re the Spanish….we are just beginning. LOL!… Johanna…amazing how much we are picking up; Dan more than I, but I’ll get there with a little help from “Spanish for Gringos“and our new friends, and a lot of help from Son..  He is so fluent, both in thinking, speaking and now writing.  Note:  Johanna…he will answer you in Spanish soon. He loved your email. 

“Tele just rang…can’t get anyone when we answer.  Note to all of you…we are still being ‘tweaked’ by Vonage.  A bit frustrating, but hang in there – we’ll talk via tele soon!  They are having problems and still trying to correct.  

“We are learning the meaning of….”manana!”  More tough for me than Dan.”  

“How are we doing….???  It’s been 10 days here at Malibu, MX.  “First 5 days were downright strenuous.  Not bad accomplishments ‘tho for we old farts! 

“Son was here on Sat and stayed the night.  Awesome, having him here as our first fam guest to say the least.  Again, on Tues night with friends but went home that night.  Coming back this weekend, we hope, for Father’s Day….how very very special!!! He loves his ‘home away from home’.  Don’t have to tell you what it means to be closer to him! 

“Yesterday…first day of just overcast skies.  I could not seem to put one foot in front of the other….and opted not to!  No work yesterday…we literally vegetated and relaxed.  Every day weatherwise; however, is the same (similar to San Diego) – awaken to overcast sky, clears by noon, beautiful all day and early evening.  By 5:30ish, I put on longer pants and a sweater – it’s chilly on the top patio and beautiful.  Actually tonight, it’s very comfortable and we may even enjoy our first really really beautiful sunset. 

“Speaking of which, there are ships out in the ocean that we can see but have no idea what they are…perhaps oil tankers awaiting the best price???  Have to find out.  They seem to only move with the tide.  

“So much to tell y’all – and will do it in Word soon and attach.  Debbie, Bren please help your mom and dad retrieve when we do that.  Gracious!” 

and: 

“Today…puttered…then went into Rosarito (5 mins away) to the hardware store again!  They know Dan/us there!!!! LOL  Then went to Popotla, south of Rosarito, right down to the beach adjacent to Fox Studios where Titantic was filmed, and Dan bought from the fisherman fresh shrimp @ $2.00/lb!!!! (he just gave me a taste having shelled and cooked ‘em all) – oh my gosh!!! delicious!!!! Cooling on ice – then we’ll enjoy some shrimp cocktail.  He bought enough to also make Shrimp Fettucini.  Prices here are incredible!!!!  

Open air taco shop

“Finally; today!!! we took the time to walk on our beach – for 45 mins.  Next time, we’ll take the camera – more pics for y’all.  Also going to send via snail mail info/propaganda re the condos/hotel/spa/Sushi Bar/Restaurant, and on and on  being built to our right and ready by Mar 08.  We met with the developer yesterday, had a tour, etc. He spent a lot of time with us.   Potential work for each of us there!  ….Sales, Reiki, etc. 

“This is way too long.  Just wanted you to know, that we are day by day adjusting/acclimating.  We absolutely love the people we’ve met here – our ‘security’ guards whose names we know, “Livvy” who runs the store, Efran (who installed our washer/dryer and does other things for Ed our landlord, and on and on.  They are all so warm, welcoming and appreciative of the things we have also done and given them (yep!!!! have had to downsize here too!!!). 

“Tomorrow….Dan and I have our appts across the Border for our Sentry Passes that will allow us OVER THE BORDER CROSSING AT NO WAITING!!!!  Can’t wait.  Son is applying for his also. 

“In the meantime, know that we’re thinking of y’all, miss you, love you much and look forward to your visits!!!!  You will not want to leave….we’ll fill you all in on best travel arrangements, etc in the near future.  

“To my ‘sisters’….which one of you told me (think it was you, Jan at the moving sale?)…you won’t need many clothes….I brought waaaayyyyy too many and will be giving more away to our new MX friends.  Carol – you were right…I live in my bathing suit and shorts!!!  No laundry to speak of from me!! 

“To all my Foundation friends….thank you’s will be on the way.  The last 2.5 months have been preoccupied – hope you have understood.  You will be hearing from me.  Til later,  Peace, love ‘n hugs to you all, Shari and Dan” 

The start of a new home

And then from Dan: 

“I’m not sure if I can handle another day like today.  We awoke (when we finally felt like it).  I prepared spare ribs for tonight and jalapeno quesa (jalapeno peppers stuffed with Monterey Jack cheese and wrapped in bacon – then grilled).  Son was here for father’s day and because he loves us and his new second home. 

“He awoke at about 11:00 and I had scrambled eggs and bacon ready. 

“Then to make things worse we had to go for a walk on the beach.  Things are so stressful (NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) 

“Son and I then played in the Baja surf.  We got back to the house and had a message from Marisol (she lives in Tijuana and is like a daughter to us).  I called her and invited her down.  One half hour later she was here so we had to go to our upper patio and eschucer et l’ oceano (listen to the ocean). 

“Then someone suggest we go to Popotla.  Shari napped while Marisol, Son and I went to a tiny beach community south of Rosarito.  I knew what to expect but Son and Marisol were amazed.  Fantastic little restaurants selling the freshest fish in the world.  We walked the beach and looked at all the fish that maybe thirty fishermen had caught.  They had oysters, cockles, quahogs. king crab, tilapia, scorpion fish, yellow tail tuna, shark, tilapia, etc   I feel like I have died and gone to heaven!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  We three had coctelles on the beach.  For those of you with weak stomachs please skip this.  A coctelles is a cup of: raw oysters, shrimp (cooked), raw quohogs, raw cockles, salsa, lime juice and Clamato juice.  This is fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!  For those of you who are saying “Yuck”  I will argue til the end of the world that this is fantastic. 

“Now I have to grill the ribs, bake potatoes, cook los jalapeno quesas et elote.  

“Just in case some of you have not yet detected my “tongue in cheek” style here, this day could not have been any better unless all of you had been here.  We are ready for visitors. We love you all, Dan and Shari” 

So, just to help some of you to feel a bit more secure about your choice – but remember, Mexico and the Baja is not for everyone.  And as Shari stated above – research, research, research – and then try someplace out – see what it’s really all about – then make your final decision. 

Pure peace.

I hope this was light and enjoyable to read.  I realize the Visa series, while important, possibly was not that much fun to read, and was very detail oriented – but, that information is also necessary for your successful, easy transformation.  Barbie 

Just have to add this from an email I just got – from Pete in Tequisquiapan:  “I truly believe if we needed to we could live on 500 USD a month, It’s great here. Pete” 

Before Pete had new tile throughout.

Baja article by Barbie.

Now that you have probably had your fill of Visa permit articles…

…I have to add one more bit of important information –

this time concerning your Passport.

As of July, 2010…guess what…price has been increased.

Adults – First time application (16 years of age and older):

Passport book and a card:  $140 Application fee, plus a $25 Execution fee…for a total of $165.

Passport book:  $110 Application fee, plus the $25 Execution fee…for a total of $135.

Passport Card:  $30 Application fee, plus, of course, the $25 Execution fee…for a total of $55.

You will use form DS-11(go to http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ for find where to secure form.)

Adults – Renewal (16 years of age and older):

Passport book and a card:  $140.

Passport book:  $110.

Passport card:  $30.

You will use form DS-82 (see above)

Payment method: 

            1.  If sent by Mail: 

• Checks (personal, certified, cashiers, travelers), made payable to “Department of State” .
• Money orders (U.S. Postal, international, currency exchange), payable to “Department of State”.

            2.  At U.S. Embassy or a Consulate – The local currency is accepted – in the amount equivalent to the U.S. dollar amount required.

What you must submit with the form:

            Proof of U.S. citizenship

            Proof of identity

            Two recent photographs

            Fees (above) 

Where you will submit application:

• Clerk of a Federal or State court of record;
• Judge or clerk of a probate court accepting applications;
• Designated municipal or county official;
• Designated postal employee at an authorized post office;
• An agent at a Passport Agency (by appointment only) in Boston, Chicago, Aurora CO, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Norwalk CT, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, or Washington of record or a judge or clerk of a probate court accepting applications.

Passport Update article by Barbie.

And now for the third part of the visa story … don’t miss the email at the end –  you’ll want to read that too!  Enjoy…

FM2 Visa

Similar to the FM3, but this visa declares you an Immigrant – a permanent resident.  The FM3 if good for one year and can be renewed yearly for five years, as long as you reside in Mexico.  Then, after the fifth year, you may apply to become an immigrant of the country and a permanent resident.

While the FM2 visa has a higher monetary limit than an FM3 visa, if you finally do become an immigrant, you don’t have to bother about the forms and fees any more.  The fee for an FM2 is a bit more than for an FM3 too.

Grey skies from a hurricane

With an FM2 visa, the monetary requirement is reduced by 50%, if you own and live in your property in Mexico.

There are limits as to the length of time you can stay out of Mexico with an FM2.   2010, it is two years absence, in total, in any five years.  No more than three consecutive years absence, and no more than five years in any ten years.  You are expected to live in Mexico, be a tax payer, and plan to immigrate.

You may want to consider hiring an attorney to help if you choose this option.  You apply for an FM2 visa at a Mexican Immigration office in Mexico.

You need:

• Proof of income – and the required amount fluctuates constantly.  As of now, it is set at approximately 250 X’s the minimum wage in Mexico City, per person – approximately the same for the partner.
• Bank statements showing your investments (anywhere that is credible – Europe, offshore, stock brokerage, etc.) generate a sufficient amount, and/or a letter from your consulate, stating your receive pension, S.S., etc.
• A notarized copy of your deed or trust showing you own real estate in Mexico.  If you own property in Mexico and reside there, the monthly requirement is reduced by 50%.

Auto repair shop

There are many, many other types of visas other than the three I have presented – but, for most of my readers, these should suffice.

Just a couple of others are:  FM3 visa for General Business, FM3 visa for Technicians and Engineers, Students, etc.

Mexico pictures, 2006, sept 11-18 Mazatlan trip named, beach scene and buildings of Mazatlan

I am not offering legal advice in this series – my writings are my personal perception and my own opinion and my limited knowledge.  Seek legal advice with any questions.

I do make a disclaimer here – I’m no lawyer – this info is offered to you in an attempt to make things run a bit smoother for you in transition.

Mazatlan in the distance

And here’s an email from someone already enjoying his retirement:

Barbie, Hola from playa sur en Mazatlan.

I try to stay indoors a lot during the hot season (July to Oct. ) here, with A/C going constantly.
It does rain a lot, but mostly at night. Electric bills are LOW compared to the US.

My American neighbors went to Lago Chapala for a couple of months (July and Aug.) and they claim it really is a little cheaper there for food and to go to a restaurant, in comparison to Mazatlan. Mazatlan is a popular tourist site for Americans and Mexicans. Much cooler there than Mazatlan, at night they even needed blankets!

I can still get a delicious shrimp dinner at a seaside restaurant for 65 pesos ( about $5 US). And yes, Mexico Jerry is right you can buy tacos for much less. I try to stay away from the small street vendor tacos though, and only buy them from taco restauarants.

With the street vendors, sometimes the hygiene is questionable.
Tacos al Trompo restaurant  in Mazatlan is very delicious and very low priced.

 I really don’t know what the level of pesticide use is here by the farmers, but I can say that I never bought better vegetables in the US, except directly from farmers markets and only in the summertime. The US corn tastes better to me, but all other veggies here are fresh, and very inexpensive. The fruits are amazing in variety, quality, and price. The seafood in Mazatlan is great. Dorado (a type of deep sea fish) is truly delicious.

Beautiful fresh foods

Last night we had a breaded shrimp dinner at the house, which was a medio-kilo amount, about a pound, and cost 40 pesos (about three dollars). Smaller than the jumbo shrimp
but still delicious with a chipotle-mayonnaise-ketchup-lime salsa. A fresh garden salad was also part of our meal, and a German white wine (50 p). Very nice indeed.

I do not know of ANY retirees here (Barbie – In Mazatlan) living on $350/month. But for double that, say $750-800 a month, you can live very well here.

Take care,
Dave

So what do you think about retiring to Mexico?

Do you have any questions? What are your biggest concerns? What do you think it will be like living in a new, yet familiar land? I’m always here to answer your questions. Each and every day I get email from dozens of people just like you who are curious about making the leap. People who yearn for a better, cheaper, more enjoyable way of life.

I’m ready to help you. If you don’t see the comment form below, click on READ FULL ARTICLE and let me know what you think. I am always ready to help you!

Sincerely,
Barbie

Visa article by Barbie Parks

Part 2

FM3

Hi everyone – are you ready for part two that I promised You?  Here we go… 

About FM3 Visa ‘s

The FM3 visa card, (temporary resident) is good for up to one year.  

You can apply for an FM3 card at any Mexican Immigration office in Mexico. 

An FM3 is a one-year permit allowing you to reside in Mexico.  Just like the Tourist Card, the FMM, the FM3 classifies you as a non-immigrant. 

An FM3 must be renewed each year, as long as you continue to reside in Mexico. After your fifth year with an FM3, you can either opt to change to an FM2 status or simply request a new FM3…and renew again for 5 years…forever. 

narrow streets of San Filipe

When you enter and exit Mexico, if you have an FM3 or FM2 visa, they stamp that instead of your passport. 

An FM3 allows you to take your vehicle into Mexico.  This privilege is confirmed as long as your FM3 is valid. 

An FM3 does not allow you to work – there has to be a work visa attached to an FM3 if you wish to work in Mexico. 

You probably will want an FM3 for Retirees, (doing no work for money) depending on your desired length of stay in Mexico, and whether you want to eventually live full time in Mexico. 

An FM3 card is now gray in color.  The text is in both Spanish and English, and states on the back “The holder of this document is a temporary resident of Mexico”. 

To procure an FM3 visa you need three copies each of:

• A letter in Spanish addressed to the proper immigration authorities, that contains:
  • your full name;
  • current address;
  • a request to change your immigration status from Tourist to FM3 visa;
  • a statement to the effect that you have annexed all pertinent paperwork.
• Passport;
• Your current FMM visa;       
• A copy of your main passport page with photo and details;
• Your most recent bank statement (online printout is accepted);
• An original + one copy of one of your most recent utility bills – which confirms your name and address;
• Five required photographs;
• a letter you write stating you are an upstanding citizen, witnessed by two Mexicans.

The fee is approximately $120. USD 

There is no longer, as of 2010, a reduction in the monthly required income for owning and occupying a home in Mexico. 

FM3 visas are no longer available from consulates outside of Mexico. If you apply there, you will receive a sticker in your passport. With that, you can apply for an FMM when you enter Mexico, then you have 30 days to exchange that for an FM3 (or an FM2), as stated in my prior article under “FMM”. 

Now, you have submitted all you requirements, the immigration office keeps the originals, and two sets of copies.  The third set of copies is for your file – just in case. 

Then, you supposedly have been notified that your application has been accepted, there is still another step: 

You will need:

• Photographs – 3 of the right profile, 4 from the front, black and white…no glasses, no jewelry, hair back from the face.
• Secure from the immigration office, or a stationery store, Form SHCP-5.  If you need help filling it out, ask the immigration office for the name of someone who can help – there will be a small charge for that help.
• Your Letter of Authorization for your FM3 – original and two copies.
• Two copies of each and every page of your Passport book.
• With your authorization letter, you will receive an FM1 form – make sure all information is correct, and then make two copies.
• You then have 45 days (from receiving your authorization letter) to submit this documentation to your local immigration office.

Another resort in Mexico

I do make a disclaimer here – I’m no lawyer – this info is offered to you in an attempt to make things run a bit smoother for you in transition – contact an attorney if you have questions.

Do you have a question about retiring to Mexico? 

 You can do a search with the search box at the top-right of my site.  Type in the subject you are curious about, and you’ll find my articles involving that subject.  In fact, it will probably bring up multiple articles (1,2,3, etc.) which appear toward the bottom of the articles. 

You can also just scroll down, and on the right hand side of my site you will see “Things I Write About” …it’s a long list – and you can just click on what you’re interested in – or better yet, make it a plan to read everyone of my articles – from start to finish – like I always say, research, research, research – it’s a great way to start. 

If you still haven’t found your answer,  just ask me!  If you don’t see the “write a comment” section below, click on Read Full Article and scroll down. Share your thoughts and concerns with me. I will always reply to you personally. 

FM3 VISA article by Barbie.

Part I of 3

FMM

for Mexico

Okay – I did warn you in my reminder mailing that my next article would be about Visas…this is important info, albeit a tad dry…maybe it’s time to get that second cup of coffee?  Well, here goes…Each immigration office can, and does, set local requirements, and the final word is theirs on Visas – to their interpretation, apparently – however, no one can or should impose extra charges to secure a visa.

First, in this series, we can easily and quickly cover the visa most of you are already familiar with – it was called the FMT – it’s now called the FMM Visas.

FMM Visas

This is the form you fill out when you fly into Mexico for short visits and vacations – also used on ships, if you are going to be in Mexico for a while, and when you drive into Mexico, and are going further than the “free zone”.  An FMM is required by all individuals entering and exiting Mexico (except Mexican citizens), including holders of FM3 and FM2 visas.

This visa, FMM, covers a maximum time period of 180 days, if you enter Mexico by car. 

FMM visas are only good for a maximum time period of 90 days if you arrive by plane or ship…but then, you can request an additional 90 days through any Mexican Immigration Office.

• This permit comes in two parts, one half is retained by immigration when you enter Mexico, the other half, green, is yours to keep and protect.
• You must return the green half of your FMM form upon exiting Mexico.

 As of 2010, there is no rule that states you can only have one FMM approved per year.

There is not a legal limit stating you can only stay in Mexico 180 days per year.

An FMM is a permit to enter the country as a visitor…period… and is turned back in, when your visit is over.

FMM visa does not give you permission to work.

You are limited to the amount of household items you can bring into the country with an FMM. 

Cruiseline monkey towel art

You must have SOME type of a visa to be allowed into Mexico (past the free zone – The Free Zone, also known as the the Liberated Zone, the Perimeter Zone and/or Free Trade Zone is a customs’ designation for that area located along the Mexican international land borders, and they run inward up to the point at which the Mexican Customs authorities have their first “interior” check point (usually about 20 to 26 kilometers into Mexico from the border towns – exceptions are on the peninsula of Baja California and places like Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) where it runs to the ocean front, along the main highways.)

To secure FMM visas:

Wages,

U.S. vs Mexico

Every once in a while I receive email from people who just don’t believe it’s that much cheaper to live in Mexico than it is to live in America.

Of course, it all depends on how you spend your peso or dollar… just how well you’ve learned to make that dollar stretch…but, beyond that, the simple facts are these: 

The 2010 minimum DAILY wage in Mexico is set according to three different zones in Mexico. They are:

Zone A: 

The states of Baja California, Baja California Sur, Mexico City and some municipalities of the states of Mexico, Sonora, Tamaulipas Veracruz and Chihuahua  at 57.46 pesos a day. 

Zone B: 

Includes Monterrey and Guadalajara, plus the states of Jalisco, Nuevo León and some municipalities (not covered by A above) of the States of Sonora, Tamaulipas y Veracruz. at 55.84 pesos a day. 

Zone C: 

Is scheduled for the smaller cities, plus the states of Aguascalientes, Guerrero, Quintana Roo, Nayarit, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, Yucatán, Zacatecas, Morelos, Michoacán, Hidalgo, Guanajuato, Durango, Chiapas, Coahuila, Campeche, and some municipalities of Veracruz, Nuevo León, Sonora, Tamaulipas, Jalisco, and Chihuahua (not covered by A and B above), rose to 54.47 pesos a day. 

beautiful plantings and the sailfish

Remember, an approximation for converting pesos to dollars is ten to one – but it does vary daily.  Actually, I just checked for today, 8-29-10, it’s at 12.99 to one.  But, for quick changing, using 10 to 1, the highest daily rate of 57.46 pesos equals 4.50558U.S.D. 

Yes, that’s right, $4.50 a day.

Now, I defy any of you to live in America on that…doubled, or even tripled. 

And yet, Mexicans do live on that amount, and they are not starving.  They are buying their veggies at native stands – their meat at native stands, etc., and they are raising food themselves.    

They may not have high speed internet, but that’s okay too – they may be too busy carefully watching their children to bother with such stuff.  

Oh, by the way, the minimum wage, HOURLY in America is $7.45  (States may individually set a minimum, in which case the higher of the two is the controlling minimum wage for that state.) 

Mexico’s minimum daily wage is based on an 8-hour work day.  8 hours of work = about $4.50 U.S. 

Mexico’s work week is 6 days. 

America’s daily minimum wage, based on an 8-hour day.  8 hours of work = about $60.00 U.S.  That is approximately 13 times Mexico’s minimum wage. 

So, you don’t think it’s cheaper to live in Mexico?  Amazing!!

Mexico Jerry kindly supplied me with the info that prompted my article for today and even supplied us with cost of living info in his area.

Hey Cathy, I told you that my readers are usually very happy to share their experiences!  

Jerry has sure proved my point and has not let me down!  Jerry also confirms my writtings! Sometimes people find the cost of living in Mexico a bit unbeliveable, but, well, read for yourself below.

Not too much more to add, other than, you will surely notice he’s not concerned a bit with his safety.  Things are truly getting worse in Mexico…it’s spread all over our TV and newspapers…impossible to ignore!  

Bike - a usual sight

But, I just discovered a most interesting fact, and I know it’s important to all of you:  that 98% of the crime in Mexico is criminal against criminal.  But that left over 2% is a big figure if it happens to involve you or your family. Now, the crime is spreading to include the good people who are fighting the drug lord situation – it is a war.  Just be careful, and be aware…everyplace.  Another reason to not flash cash – don’t wear showey/expensive jewelry – don’t leave big tips – don’t wonder into unfamiliar areas by yourself – etc., etc., etc. – use your common sense! 

Now, read some major reasons you should move to Mexico – especially in retirement with Mexico’s good cost of living – if you follow our cheap / frugal folks’ rules: 

E-mail from Cathy, to (Mexico) Jerry’s first blog response, cc’d to me:  

Hello Jerry, 

I’ve been doing some research on different areas of Mexico.  I’ve also been in contact with a couple that moved to Merida and have been there for a couple of years and love it! I find the culture exciting and hope to experience it as they have.  

I would have some cash to live on for a while, but would have to find a way to make some money after a few months.  We all start somewhere, and it is great that people like you are willing to share what you have learned along the way.  Maybe I’ll be able to do the same for someone else someday.  

Any information you can share is much appreciated. Thanks, Cathy 

Jerry Draughon’s reponse to Cathy, cc’d to me, including info on his cost of living::

Cathy, you don’t need much to live on here. 

I walk to the plaza and get two tacos for just 6 pesos each.  That is often my supper  I might  just have a hamburger or a hot dog. Yes, I go out to nice restaurants too, it’s just not that expensive 

Food is cheap, especially if you shop where the Mexicans shop. (Barbie’s note – which I stress constantly in my articles)  I guarantee that your veggies will probably be more flavorful and tastier than the ones that you buy where you live.  Most farmers here don’t have the extra money to pay for chemicals to throw on their gardens.  

Mountain view

Dr’s are cheap and highly trained.  My Dr charges me 100 peso’s for a visit.  He speaks English too.  You can go to the central salude (clinic)  for nothing or next to nothing.  

Prescriptions are much cheaper here.  I leave all my stuff like TV, lights and fans on all day long well into the night and my electric bill is VERY high, it never (so far ) has gone over $40 USD per month.  You pay the electric every two months and as you use more, you will be charged the highest rate per kWh.  I am in the high usage and you see what I pay. 

I have a friend that moved to Meridia and she tells me that it is both very hot there, as it is sea level, and very expensive. I lived a year in Mazatlan and while it was very pretty, when summer came, all the gringos left for cooler climes.  That’s why I came to the Chapala area as it is the same height as Denver, Co.  She also told me that it is very pretty too.  

I hope you find what you are looking for but don’t be too caught up on how much money you have.  I know people who live here on  a SS check of $350 USD per month. 

Write me if you need more info. Nos vmos ( see ya!)  Jerry 

So, for cost of living info, and a whole lot of goodwill, you and I can almost always count on my Expat readers ! I thank them from the bottom of my heart!

Primer

In my book, Retire In Luxury, I begin by saying that Dick’s and my retirement starts a little unexpectedly.

Oh, sure, we knew retirement was coming.  We had known that for years, but to choose a day when an actual paycheck would no longer be coming in… that was scary to say the least.

Through Dick’s work career, we had always matched the employer’s 401K contribution fully toward our eventual retirement.  We had managed to save a little money from the building and remodeling of houses that we had done for years — although back in those days, we congratulated ourselves when we walked away from a sale with $5,000 profit in our pockets.  And we did almost all of the physical work ourselves.  But we were young and strong, and now Yikes!  Well, we still feel young.  We are still fairly strong, and we were going to need that strength now.

Barbie and Dick

Talking About Retirement

The whole process started with a lot of talk about retirement – I mean a lot of talk.  What did we want to do with the rest of our lives?  Where did we want to spend the rest of our lives?  How in the heck would we pay the bills?  And just how long might this “retirement” last?… Oh my gosh, that’s right… the rest of our lives… hopefully for many, many years!

Remember… this was a little over 10 years ago – so I grabbed pencil and paper – yes, I had computer, but I was still relying on the good old tablet and pencil for the first-round.  It took a bit of work, but I finally had a list of bills – debits, and the list of income – credits.  Darn, the debit list is a whole lot longer than the credit list.

On the debit list, there were utilities, there were insurance payments, there were credit card payments (luckily years ago we had learned to pay off that debt monthly), we had a very small payment for the maintenance fee where we lived in Louisiana, and every little bill I could think of was placed on the list -I wanted no surprises in our retirement.

Retirement …or Mortgages

I want to tell you now that if you are still making mortgage payments on your home or if you are still making payments on a vehicle, you may not find retirement very rewarding.  But, maybe you’re just one of those few souls who happen to absolutely love your work – then, keep it up – and enjoy – you’re not really retired – you’re just enjoying working.  Or then again, maybe you have a whole pocket full of money – if so - that’s good too!

However, if those big payments are still coming due, you will most likely be one of the many who take up a second career – or just continue your original.  So if it is at all possible, get those two bills paid off… you will be very glad you did – if you actually want a good and enjoyable retirement.

It’s strange, but once you have all this information down on paper, a lot of those spooky clouds and worries started to disappear.  We realized if we were careful – frugal — maybe downright tight, this retirement just might work out.

Even if you’ve already taken that big step and retired – go ahead and get those lists down on paper (or on the computer).  They’re not nearly so scary in black-and-white.

The “where” choosing portion of our retirement, I’ll delve into later.

Retirement article by Barbie.

Mexico

Affordable

Dental!

My son, Steve,

just wrote me

about his

dental visit

in Algodones, Mexico.

Here’s how he put more money in his pocket by going to a dentist in Mexico — and how you can, too!

Yes, it’s summer, and it’s hot – may just as well accept it.  Sure we complain – and every year, everyone says, “Gosh, it’s never been so hot, has it?”  Well, I’m afraid it’s just that time of the year – hang in there – the beautiful months can’t be far ahead.  Now, on with Steve’s story: 

“Hi Mom, 

“I just wanted to give you a report on my recent return to the Gator Dental Group in Los Algodones B.C, Mexico for a dental check up.  Just like my first time there about a year ago, I was very pleased at the service and the work they gave me. 

“Luckily, I was having no problems with my teeth but thought I was due for a check up. Your http://www.moneysavingmexico.com/ site directed me to the dentist information I needed so I booked an appointment about two weeks prior to making a southern detour to Baja California on my drive home from Phoenix to Los Angeles. 

Heading to Algodones for My Dental Work

“I booked my dental appointment for a Monday morning so I got an early start from Phoenix and arrived in Yuma about three and a half hours later without incident.  Traffic on the way was very light. I built in an extra thirty minutes to have a second breakfast at the Denny’s in Yuma before crossing the boarder so that was nice. 

Heading to Algodones

“Parking on the U.S. side of the border on the Reservation lot was as easy as I remembered – just take the last right prior to the border. There were maybe 75 cars with me in the lot that day.  Parking charge of $5 was paid upon exit. 

“Crossing the border on the way into Mexico, I heard the few pharmacy vendors’ calls and made a mental note to stop at the Purple Pharmacia/Liquor Store before I left the country as I walked the block and a half to one of the Gator Dental Group’s offices.  This group has two offices in town, about a block from each other, between A and B Avenues. Remember these are small “walking” blocks; it’s a tiny town, so they are both very conveniently located. 

“I had to wait about an hour as two elderly brothers were given impressions for their upcoming denture installment.  But the dental office was air conditioned, very clean (although tiny) and they served complimentary bottled water and coffee as I chatted with one of the brothers’ wife in the waiting room who had also come for the same purpose from Phoenix that day. 

“During my exam, Dr. Guzman found four little cavities in my teeth so he numbed me up and fixed them with white amalgam right then and there and also gave me a cleaning for $150 US.  Incredible.  I was very happy with the service at Gator Dental, the quality of the work and especially the price.  Before learning about Mexican dental care from your web site, I got an estimate at a dentist in L.A. who wanted $200 to fix ONE tooth and $65 for a cleaning.  Incredible.  I was finished and out the door before noon – none of this, “We’ll fix one today, then schedule appointments for the rest”, bull$#!& I would have gotten at a dental office in the states. 

“I almost stopped at one of the many optical shops in town to buy a new pair of bifocals, but decided to wait until next time.  I’ll give you a report on that at a later date. 

“On the short walk back to my car, I stopped at the Purple Pharmacia for generic Retin-A ($2.16/40g) and then the connected liquor store for Kahlua ($8.50/L); two more excellent buys.  Remember, the U.S. allows a person to cross into the country with only one liter of liquor. 

“It is usually about a five hour drive from Yuma to Los Angeles.  My ride through the desert back home was hot and uneventful until I reached Cabazon on the 10 freeway where an accident held things up for a while. 

“As long as I have the time to get there, I’ll go back to Los Algodones and the Gator Dental Group in the future for all of my dental care needs and to save myself a lot of money!” 

Hope you’ve enjoyed his Algodones dental visit adventure  …Best to you all, Barbie

  

]]> http://moneysavingmexico.com/dentist/algodones-dentist-visit/feed/ 9 http://moneysavingmexico.com/expats-mexico/visa-rent-chapala/ http://moneysavingmexico.com/expats-mexico/visa-rent-chapala/#comments Sat, 24 Jul 2010 05:02:57 +0000 Barbie http://moneysavingmexico.com/?p=1451 Moving to

Mexico?

You will be applying for certain Mexico Visas – FM3, etc. -you must prove you have a minimum monthly income.

That is a requirement to obtain certain visas – expecially for seniors. $1,150 a month for the first person in the family is approximate, due to the fluctuation in the exchange rate, and considering yearly increases set by the government’s Mexican Immigration Department’s Official Federal Requirement, but that’s a pretty close estimation.  If you own property in Mexico, you can cut that amount in half.  For the second person in the household, about half the amount of the first person is required.  This amount also varies as to which zone you want to reside in Mexico, A, B, or C, in 2010.   Read more in one of my newsletter reports:

http://www.retireinluxury.com/free/retire_in_luxury_july20.pdf page 3.

There are rental properties available almost anywhere in Mexico.

And you may be able to take advantage of them to check the area out that you are interested in.  I always tell my readers to go, not as a tourist, but as some one who is really looking for a new place to put down roots.  Hang out at the native shops and restaurants.  Staying only in a lovely resort, in the fabulous pools, is not going to give you the real taste of Mexico you need to make your big decision as to whether you’re going to move south of the border or not.   Take a few trips to check things out.

Mazatlan, because of having every convenience, was our choice, but, there are places nearer the border.

And, sure, you can own property in Mexico.  In the interior you’ll get a deed – much like the States.  In the “excluded zone”, you can still own property, but you will do so through a Trust. Do download all my free newsletters and read all my reports and articles – you’ll find oodles of information to help you in your decisions.

Just heard a new one – at least for me – when life deals you a bunch of lemons – hey – make Margaritas :)

Steep Roads of Acapulco

And, to end today, an email received from Marlene S.:   “Thanks for all the information on Mexico.  Your e-book was very helpful.  Thanks to it and a visit for the month of October, we are moving to Lake Chapala area at the end of February.  Less than one month!!!  In about two weeks I will have a different e-mail address. If you want it just let me know. And thanks again for the good tidbits, do’s and don’t's,  etc.  Our friends from British Columbia just moved as well.  He was having some chest pains before he left but the BC doctors gave him a clean bill of health. When he arrived in Mexico things got worse.  He ended up having triple bypass surgery in Gudalajara.  It went very smoothly.  They gave the BEST and quickest care they have ever seen.  In a new clean modern hospital.  He may not be alive if he was still living in BC.  So Medical care is superb in Mexico. All for now.  Marlene”

Do read all my free articles on Mexico on my sites, and enjoy.

Pets!

So many people

have emailed

me, worried

about whether

or not they can

bring their pets to Mexico.

Bringing your pets, at least dogs and cats, into Mexico is pretty easy, if you just know how:

Assuming you take excellent care of your pet anyway, you just need to have your vet fill out the proper form – one that states your pet has had the required shots and is in good health.

I have more info on pets in my book Retire In Luxury, such as contacting your vet well in advance to make sure he has the required forms to bring your pet along, etc.

Griff outside just looking around

Do you have any questions about pets? Just let me know. If you don’t see the comment field right after this pet article, click on read full article and let me know what you think.

Dentist

Going To The

Dentist Is Not

As Painful As It

Used To Be!

Today I want to share an email with you from Bob N., who, while visiting the Yucatan for a couple of months, experienced the dental care there:

“Hi Barb, I am finally getting around to telling you about my dental experience in Playa Del Carmen. You can modify this if you like and share with your readers. (Barbie = That’s on the east coast of Mexico, south of Cancun, and across from Cozumel.)

“Just a note on my great dental experience in

Playa Del Carman, Mexico.

“The web site for (the) dentist office is www.clinicadeespecialidadesdentales.com and the dentist is Dr Rubin.

“At bottom of their website you can email them  for appointments.  Their location is downtown, close to the ocean and many hotels.

“I had 3 implants and 4 root canals done. The cost of an implant is $1000 and includes
implant and stub. The crown is $500 so the total is $1500.  Root canal and placement of metal rod for crown is $300 and crown $500.

“They (the dentists) don’t charge extra for Novocain,  impressions, etc.  Total is total and you couldn’t get better work done in U.S.A.  Work was done pain free and you can get pain pills at Wal-Mart for very cheap.  Bob N. ”

Thanks so much for writing,  and letting me share your experience with my readers, Bob!

Fresh orange juice, anyone?

And, just FYI – info on performing a “Search”, i.e. “dentist”on my site :

When you do a search on my site, you can use the box at the top to type in the category you are specifically interested in, i.e. dentist, or pet, or Baja, and select “go” and that will bring up the articles I’ve written on that subject.

Or you can decide which subject you want to read about i.e. “Healthcare”, or “Dentist”, on the right, under “Things I Write About” – then, that will bring up one article, such as dentist, and,  you then can go to another by selecting “Read Previous Article” at the bottom of each article.

Any questions? Just let me know. If you don’t see the comment field right after this paragraph, click on “read full article” and let me know what you think about my Dentist article.

Affordable

Side of

Mexico

Hello Everyone,

This article

is sort of an

emergency article, brought on by a dear

retiree living in Mexico, Jerry.

Jerry first wrote, and I shared with you all: “I have lived in Mexico for 11 yrs and I rent a two bedroom 4 yr old house (very pretty) in a nice neighborhood for $83.00 per month! How about that? And there are more! Jerry”

I responded:  Hi Jerry! Thanks for writing! Yep – it can be done! Way to go! Barbie

With that, and with many, many people replying to me, concerning his email, I asked Jerry if he would mind telling me where in Mexico he was located, he replied:

“I live 7 miles from Chapala on the north side of the lake in a small but nice village called Ixtlahucan de Los Membrillos. Email me at (deleted by Barbie). I lived in those areas (around the lake) but found them to be too expensive — so I figured – what are the people of Mexico are paying, so I did my homework and found this place and the home that I lived in before, for 5 yrs was $100 USD per month with two bedrooms too! They exist, you just have to look for them…Mexico Jerry”

And then, after I asked if he would mind if I shared where he’s located in Mexico, Jerry quickly replied:

“Barbie:  Sure, I live in a small village at the bottom of the mountain just before descending into Chapala. (that’s Lake Chapala.)  The village’s name is Ixtlahuacan de los Membreious in the housing area called Aguilillias (some call it Vista Del Lago!)  There’s one house next to me that the bank just took back over so it’s empty at the moment! Hope this helps! Jerry” (Barbie = I looked this up on the computer – tempting!)

In his next email, he continued:  “When I first moved to this area, I paid the usual $350/250 per month for rents but decided that the locals can’t pay that – so I looked around.  For 5 yrs I paid $100 per month and then found this house for $85.00 per month.  You can get around the costs here if you do as the Mexicans do.  Health insurance, you can cut that way down too!  Lots of fine clinics in Mexico, and low cost hospitals. You just learn to work the system as the locals do. Jerry” (Barbie = Exactly what I tell people – do your research – be well prepared, and then check things out in person – not as a tourist, but as someone looking for a new home in Mexico.)

Jerry's front door

Then, quickly from Jerry:  “Barbie:  Thank you!  I don’t mean to step on your toes, It’s just that I figured that Mexicans aren’t paying big amounts for rentals so why should I.  Your readers will need to get down here and look around and do a little legwork.”

To which I replied:  “And – no – my toes are just fine ;)  I’m going to get an article/notice out asap – and yes – love your email – you are so logical – that can be a rarity these days…  have a good one!  Barbie – do keep in touch!

And after a very brief pause, Jerry sent:  “Barbie, You are right. I went to laundry-mats and small grocery stores and anywhere to ask about rentals in the Mexico neighborhoods. Ask the locals – quite often they know of something or maybe a relative has a rental and would love to get a Gringo in there! It worked for me.”

I wrote:  “Hi Jerry – thanks so much for your reply – yes – I understand – but my one fear is the ugly American coming down to Mexico and ruining the “goose”.  I’m going to put up an article – try to tonight – hopefully explain – more – I say over and over that the average DAILY wage is $5 in Mexico…I keep trying :) Barbie”

(Lightly Edited for privacy)

Added by Barbie – please, dear readers, don’t think you can just go to Mexico and pick up rental prices like this easily – it’s going to take work – just like Jerry said.  Barbie

Jerry's front room seating area

And, added Jerry wrote this to me :

“Should any of your readers think that even though I only pay $83 per month for my rent, that I am living is some sort of squalor, they couldn’t be more wrong!  I have high speed Internet telephones and Sky TV, a maid twice a week  and  (I think,) all the amenities.  I am retired from the University of Florida and while my pensions are small, I am able to travel, and even save money too just from my income.  I am planning a trip to Asia in October and have been saving for that. My point is that if someone has a pension of $1,100 US per month, they can live very well here in Mexico.  The best to you, Mexico Jerry”

Expats

Here are emails, from Expats in Ajijic and Nuevo Laredo. (edited for brevity)

I just love

getting email

from expats.

They are always inspiring and

they just show how more and

more people are making a new

life in Mexico, and living far

better on less!

Hi,Barbie,
My husband and I (and our dogs and cats) have now been just outside of Ajijic since Sept. AND WE ARE LOVING IT!!

The Mexican people are so friendly, and the support from the expats and the local clubs, like LCS, are great.

I think our children and other relatives first thought their parents were crazy, but more and more we hear from everybody how much happier we sound since we no longer deal with all the issues in the States!

The big question has always been “yea, but what about crime?”  Well, we feel much safer here in Ajijic, than in Little Rock, AR!  Maria W.

Acapulco Cliff Diver contemplating the water

I have, in some of the newsletters and reports stated that most problems are at the border towns, and Expats, as a rule, are not associated with the drug scene. 

Border towns are creatures apart from most of Mexico.  However, I do also try to tell people to be cautious;  don’t flash cash, don’t wear great watches, etc.  And don’t have anything to do with anyone who would even consider doing drugs – there are millions of us out here… we have lots of good company!

Hi Barbie,
Tim W. here.  I now live in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.

I live where the Mexicans live and rent, utilities, food are very affordable (I drink bottled water).

All the girls here want to get married (that’s not much different than the USA).

Social Security claims to be more understanding and will deposit my money in any bank except in barred countries (like China).

I have cable internet (as most expats do – Barbie) now with hyper cable (pronounced hyper cowly).

There are very nice 2 bed, 1 bath new homes here on the outer part of Neuvo, Laredo, Mx.  They sell for $195/mo.  If a person learns Spanish it would be a great place for  expats to live.  No one there speaks English and I have to take along someone bilingual.

Are there places in that price range in Mazatlan?  A one room place where I can see the water way off in the distance (or not) will be fine.  (I answered – maybe not within view of the water)

Everyone in Mexico thinks USA types have money, so I keep one hand on my wallet at all times.

Final note from Barbie: Dick and I have never felt threatened – anyplace –we always try to be careful and wise and well prepared in the first place.  So, taking unnecessary chances – just not part of our lives…we’ll leave that to the Acapulco cliff divers.

Expats just need to be persistant and also patient - Barbie

Retirement

In both 2008

and 2009,

Mexico placed

#1 for

retirement, by

International Living. 

The next four high rankings for retirement

are Ecuador, Panama, Uruguay and Italy.

Just about the biggest plus to me, for the selection of Mexico for retirement, above the others, is the proximity to the United States.  Even at most distant locations, you can usually drive rather than needing to get an expensive airplane to get back and forth to see family and friends in the States.  Though, those friends and family are probably going to be the ones who do the traveling to visit the luck person living in Mexico. And, while driving may take time, we’re enjoying our retirement, aren’t we?  No more meetings scheduled for us – so just enjoy the trip.

Fresh clams and wine - a great life

High-speed internet, cable and satellite tv, and options like Magic Jack for phone, are all available so you’ll still have all the conveniences you are used to and expect in retirement, or relocation. 

In Mexico, during the first 6 months that you hold an FM2 or FM3 Visas, you can import your used (not new) household items with no import taxes.  Read More. 

Talking about retirement ratings, there’s sort of a funny ranking that is “Living in a Corona commercial”, by Money magazine, that lists #1, On a boat, #2, In Greenville, SC, and #3 in Mazatlan, Mexico!

Right now, because of the financial crisis (maybe that’s a little strong for some of you – how about “problems”) in the states, property prices in Mexico have also dropped.  There are fewer folks looking for real estate right now in Mexico, especially in retirement, so if you have a real “horse trader” mentality and capability, you may find some real deals. 

Mexico, long ago, realized the importance of North American’s and others in their retirement moving to Mexico – even on strict budgets, they have so much more than the average Mexican has.  Remember, the average wage in Mexico is still $5 a day.  Mexico has made it easy for retirees to get their various permits, visas, and – as I said in another article – there’s even a senior discount card!  Love that  :)

So what do you think about Mexico as a retirement destination? Let me know what you think. If you don’t see the comment box below, follow this link to get the full article on retirement and at the bottom you’ll find a space to submit your comments or questions.

VEHICLE TO

MEXICO…

A lot of people, whether they’re moving to Mexico or simply visiting, will want to take their vehicle with them. By vehicle I mean:  automobile, truck (pickup), motor home, trailer, etc.

The process really is quite easy. Assuming you have your FM3 Visa (180 day plus stay – up to a year –  with limitless renewals) or your FMT Visa (more than 72-hour stay and no more than 180 days) you will be able to take your vehicle across the border and stay for the same length as your visa permits..

A VEHICLE WITH

U.S. and  CANADIAN PLATES:

• You will pay a permit fee to bring your vehicle into Mexico – and you will renew your permit when needed, i.e. when your FM3 expires.
• You will not be able to legally sell that car in Mexico – the permit you receive is temporary, for a specific time period, and you must have that permit to exit Mexico with that vehicle, within your time period.
• Your Mexican auto insurance will be less than it would be for a comparable Mexico-licensed vehicle.
• If your N.A. driver’s license has expired, your Mexican Auto insurance will probably not be honored.(U.S. auto insurance is not recognized by the Mexican Government.)
• There are rigid restrictions on who may drive your vehicle.
• You can easily reenter the United States and Canada – as long as the plates have not expired, and you have N.A. insurance.
• You may attract the attention of certain officials hoping for mordita. (They figure you’re an easy mark.)

VEHICLES WITH

MEXICAN PLATES:

• Anyone may drive the vehicle.
• You can sell the vehicle in Mexico.
• You can enter the U.S. and Canada – and purchase auto insurance – unless you have an official U.S. residence…then you are not legally allowed to drive the vehicle into the U.S.
• There is an annual registration fee and there are taxes.  The older the car is, the smaller the taxes.
• Insurance is more than it would be with N.A. plates.
• You cannot import the vehicle into N.A.

One person (of legal age), can import one vehicle into Mexico from the U.S.

Your spouse or of-age child can each do the same.

You must have proof of ownership or you must have a letter of permission from the owner (such as a bank whom you are still making payments to), or the owner must be present.

If you are driving an Recreational Vehicle (RV),  (a motor home – not a pickup camper) and towing a car, they can both be registered (for a 10-year period) in one name.  You need proof of ownership for both.

Up to three single-passenger vehicles (equal to the number of people traveling inside the carrying vehicle) such as ATV’s, motorcycles, dune buggies, may be transported or towed and registered by the of-age passengers/driver.  Proof of ownership required.

When you leave Mexico, register the return of your vehicle when crossing the border.  If you don’t, and you attempt to cross into Mexico again, with a vehicle – can’t do it – you’re allowed one vehicle per person – and according to their records, the other vehicle was not exported from Mexico.  You may be in trouble for having a vehicle in Mexico with an expired permit.  Everything is kept in a computer – they will know.  One per – that’s it.  At that time of leaving Mexico, the authorities will remove the permit for your vehicle that was placed on your windshield – do not do this yourself.  If you have any problem, contact a U.S. Consulate.

Also read my related articles:   “Take You Car To Mexico”, “Mexican Law for Vehicles” , “Drive or Buy a Car in Mexico”,  “Drive into Mexico – With Your Own Car and an American Driver’s License”

Inside Mazatlan Airport

All about taking your vehicle to Mexico, by Barbie

must-read

“working”

article

if you have already received and read the “Tom O’Malley”  email.

Barbie’s opinion - Anyone living in the United States has surely figured out by now, our borders MUST be secured – it’s an apparent truth, and stands on it’s own, without needing any falsehoods such as this email!

Exerpts from an email supposedly

received from Tom O’Malley, who

was purportedly a Director,

working for S.W. BELL in

Mexico City:

BP:  this email has been going around since before 2006 – basically not true – though portions may be almost accurate.

“I spent five years working in Mexico. I worked under a tourist Visa for three months and could legally renew it for three more months. After that you were working illegally. I was technically illegal for three weeks waiting on the FM3 approval.”
BP:  The company he was reportedly working for sure screwed up then.  All he needed was an FM3 with permit to work.

“During that six months our Mexican and U.S. attorneys were working to secure a permanent work visa called a ‘FM3′. It was in addition to my U.S. passport that I had to show each time I entered and left the country. Barbara’s was the same, except hers did not permit her to work.”

BP:  This guy needed 6 months and Mexican and U.S. attorneys working to get his FM3??  You’ve got to be kidding.

“To apply for the FM3, I needed to submit the following notarized originals (not copies):
1. Birth certificate for wife Barbara and me.

2. Marriage certificate.

(BP:  Only if he was bring his wife in on his FM3, as a dependent.)

3. High school transcripts and proof of graduation.

(BP:  No way are these required.)

4. College transcripts for every college I attended and proof of graduation.

(BP:  Not true.)

5. Two letters of recommendation from supervisors I had worked for at least one year.

(BP:  Tic, Tac, Toe – three falsehoods in a row.)

6. A letter from the St. Louis Chief of Police indicating that I had no arrest record in the U.S. and no outstanding warrants and, was “a citizen in good standing”.

(BP:  half true – they don’t want someone with felony convictions, etc.)

7. “Finally, I had to write a letter about myself that clearly stated why there was no Mexican citizen with my skills and why my skills were important to Mexico.  We called it our ‘I am the greatest person on Earth’ letter. It was fun to write.”

(BP:  About 1/3 true – The letter comes from the employer, stating why they want to hire this person, and how much he will be paid.  Now, if “Tom” were going to Mexico and working to start up his own personal business, he would have to write a letter stating so, and he would be applying for an FM3, with permission to start a business (permission to work).

“All of the above were in English that had to be translated into Spanish and be certified as legal translations, and our signatures notarized. It produced a folder about 1.5 inches thick with English on the left side & Spanish on the right.”

BP:  If you are filling out forms in any country – you usually need to use that language – duh!

“Once they were completed Barbara and I spent about five hours, accompanied by a Mexican attorney, touring Mexican government office locations and being photographed and fingerprinted at least three times at each location, and we remember at least four locations where we were instructed on Mexican tax, labor, housing, and criminal law and that we were required to obey their laws or face the consequences. We could not protest any of the government’s actions or we would be committing a felony. We paid out four thousand dollars in fees and bribes to complete the process. When this was done we could legally bring in our household goods that were held by U.S. Customs in Laredo, Texas. This meant we had rented furniture in Mexico while awaiting our goods. There were extensive fees involved here that the company paid.”

BP:  Oh my – so many more untruths.

“We could not buy a home and were required to rent at very high rates and under contract and compliance with Mexican law.”

BP:  Geez – wonder where “Tom” got his info – he sure didn’t read my site before taking this “job” working in Mexico!

“We were required to get a Mexican driver’s license. This was an amazing process.
The company arranged for the licensing agency to come to our headquarters location with their photography and fingerprint equipment and the laminating machine.”

BP:  Well, have no proof that this might not happen – but I cannot even imagine it happening.  First of all – your U.S. license is legal in Mexico.

“We showed our U.S. license, were photographed and fingerprinted again and issued the license instantly after paying out a six dollar fee. We did not take a written or driving test and never received instructions on the rules of the road. Our only instruction was to never give a policeman your license if stopped and asked. We were instructed to hold it against the inside window away from his grasp. If he got his hands on it you would have to pay ransom to get it back.”

BP:  Some imagination this “Tom” has – really wonder why he wanted to start working in Mexico, anyway?

“We then had to pay and file Mexican income tax annually using the number of our FM3 as our ID number. The company’s Mexican accountants did this for us and we just signed what they prepared. It was about twenty legal size pages annually.”

BP:  Hum – 20 pages – well, this guy sure made more money and had more deductions than the Parks’ family ever did, I guess.

“The FM3 was good for three years and renewable for two more after paying more fees.”

BP:  This is actually getting boring – again – not true.  Articles on my site tell all about FM3’s.

“Leaving the country meant turning in the FM3 and certifying we were leaving no debts behind and no outstanding legal affairs (warrants, tickets or liens) before our household goods were released to customs.”

BP:  Have any of you traveled between Mexico and into the United States?  If you have your passport, U.S. admits you – Mexico doesn’t even say “good-bye” to you.  Oh – other than if you have the temporary car tags, and you’ve been there on a temporary visa, then the officials must take the tag off your car.  And you do have to find that bank who will know what $15 you are trying to pay.

“It was a real adventure and if any of our Senators or Congressmen went through it once they would have a different attitude toward Mexico.”

“The Mexican government uses its vast military and police forces to keep its citizens intimidated and compliant. They never protest at their capitol or government offices, but do protest daily in front of the United States Embassy. The U.S. Embassy looks like a strongly reinforced fortress and during most protests the Mexican military surrounds the block with their men standing shoulder to shoulder in full riot gear to protect the  embassy. These protests are never shown on U.S. or Mexican TV. There is a large public park across the street where they do their protesting. Anything can cause a protest such as proposed law changes in California or Texas.”

BP:  Just not true – they happen to have t.v. in Mexico, believe it or not, and protests are usually televised.

“Please feel free to share this with everyone who thinks we are being hard on the illegals.”

BP:  This part, I agree on – sort of – Mexico does have stipulations on whom they want to live tin their country.  It’s all on my sites www.retireinluxury.com and www.moneysavingmexico.com

Traffic and telephone poles

Have a good day – and don’t believe all the Pinocchio’s that are around.  It still amazes me that people have the spare time to make up writings like this about working in Mexico, and then feel the need to pass them around…I just don’t understand.BP:  Took a bit of research, but I finally found it:  Southwestern Bell International S.A. De C.V., Parque Via 190S,  06500 Ciudad De Mexico, Districto Federal, Mexico,   Telephone  01 55 5255 3530  – you can call and ask if they’ve ever even heard of this “Tom” fellow…they haven’t.

“Working” article, by Barbie.

Visa Required…

…Sorta

Do you need

permits to live in

Mexico?

When you drive or fly in, as a tourist, you are allowed to stay for a period up to  6 months – you fill out papers on the plane to secure the visa that allows that, and you will fill out similar papers if you drive in - Forma Migratoria Multiple, or FMM.

As of April 30, 2010, Passport holders from countries on Mexico’s “no visa required list” do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. They may, instead, use a visitor’s permit  – the Forma Migratoria Multiple, or FMM.

If you decide to stay longer…

… you have to leave Mexico, and then re-enter Mexico to secure another permit visa, which permits another stay.  It may be wise, in that case, to secure an FM3, (180 days to one year)  and maybe even eventually an FM2.  The FM3 permits are what we call perpetual visitor .  These permits allow you to stay a year - then that can be renewed another year, for a 5-year period.  Then, you can reapply – again.  That’s what retirees usually secure.  The process may take a day – possibly even two, so, be prepared, and be patient – at least when applying the first time.

By the way – not to do with permits, but, do something for yourself right now

Place a bottle of aspirin beside your bed table now.  WHY?  If you have chest pain that is sever enough to waken you, all you need to do is immediately chew two aspirins and then swallow them with a bit of water.  It could save your life.  Then, immediately get medical attention – call 911. And while you are waiting on the emergency people to come, DO NOT LIE DOWN.  Sit on a chair or sofa near the front door and wait for their arrival.

Permits and aspirin article by Barbie.

Mexico

vs

Safe U.S.A.

I recently ran

into this true

story about the

perceptions of the word “safe”:

A former Dallas, Texas,  police officer moved to the Lake Chapala area, considered to be a safe spot, in Mexico.  He met a lovely Mexican lady and eventually got married.  A wonderful 84-year old Mother-in-law welcomed him into the family. 

The majority of the news that the Mother-in-law and her family received about the U.S. was from t.v.  From what she saw on the news channels, she was convinced the U.S. was a very dangerous place.  After all, she saw reports about children shooting children – mothers killing children – husbands killing their wives – students killing their teachers – such a scary country.

So it has became a strict rule that anytime this Expat gentleman and his Mexican wife want go to the States to visit any of his family, they first must go to the Mother-in-law’s home so she can say a special “safe” blessing prayer on them, in hopes that they stay safe on their trip to the dangerous United States.  Different perspective, huh?

Yes, the drug-lords in Mexico and especially around the border, are causing lots of trouble – but, remember, it’s mainly because they have such a wonderful place to sell their product – to all the people buying their product in the United States. 

volley ball on a beach

 Safe article by Barbie.

know, I

love a

discount!

I’ve received many

emails wanting more

information

on these handy little discount cards, so, here

are some more specifics.

First of all, let me explain a couple of acronyms:

DIF:
The State System for the Full Development of the Family
(Desarollo Integral de la Familia)

INAPAM:
National Institute for the Greater Adult People
(Instituto Nacional de las Personas Adultas Mayores)

INAPAM, the Senior Discount Card I’ve already written about, is for both natural residents of Mexico and for foreigners (legal residents) holding an FM-3 or an FM2 visa, over 60 years of age. (This is about the same as the older INSEN card – so, update to a new INAPAM card for maximum discounts.)

To apply at your local DIF office

for the discount card, found in

the state of your residence, you

will need:

1. Passport,
2. Photo ID (passport or driver’s license),
3. Valid FM2 of MF3,
4. Proof of current residence in Mexico (utility bill in your name, deed to your residence, rental lease,
5. Three photos (similar to your passport and usually there is a person within the area to take those photos, so they fit the requirements),
6. Emergency contact information,
7. Birth Certificate.
Make at least two copies of everything to take in to the office.

I do list the Mexican Embassies, located in the United States, in my book, Retire In Luxury. The list is found on pages 67,68 & 69.

There are a few handicap parking places in Mexico

The DIF office in Mexico City: 
Sistema Nacional para el Desarrollo Integral de la Familia
Zapata 340 P.B.
Sta. Cruz Atoyac, 03310
México D.F. (Districto Federal)
Tel. (55) 30032200

The Mexican Embassy in D.C. is:
Embassy of Mexico
Consular Section
2827 16th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20009-4260
202-736-1000

Discount card article by Barbie.

If you’re a

long-time

visitor of  my

blog,  you’re

probably

familiar with

Charlie in the Chapala Area…

Charlie lives in the Ajijic/Lake Chapala area, an area well-known for its warm, provincial feeling, along with a large North American expat community and low cost of living.  Seems pretty perfect doesn’t it?

A reader had asked me to put her in contact with Charlie because she had some questions she needed answered about the Chapala area.  When Charlie kindly answered her email, after I put them in contact with each other, he sent me a copy of the questions with his answers.  I, of course, want to share the info with all of you:

Question 1:  Are there any homes that are furnished, for rent?   If not, are there any available that are unfurnished?   

Answer:  Most everything is furnished.   A nice two or three bedroom, near me, runs from 300 to 350 USD a month.   

Question 2:  How did you find your place – through a realtor or just looking around?  

Answer: There are no realtors over here and if you found one, they would probably raise the local Chapala prices. Word of mouth or just looking around is the best way to find bargains.  I found mine through referral – word of mouth.   

Question 3:  What is the average monthly cost for the following services:  Electricity, water, phone, satellite, trash disposal.  

 Answer:  These numbers are approximate:  

 $50 for electricity,  

$1.20 per liter bottled water.  

$50 for phone and high speed internet service,  

$52 for satellite, this will vary with what you subscribe to, 

Trash disposal is usually included in the rent – depending on the area – I pay $400 a year for my trash, water and security.   

Question 4:  Is there Bus service both around the local Chapala area and to Jocotepec and how is it?  Do you need a car? 

Answer:  Bus service here is great but a car is preferable.  

Question 5:  How are the Medical facilities? 

Answer:  Medical is great but there are many different ways to approach it (Read my articles on site and also the newsletters, on my site, for lots of info on health care – Barbie)  

Question 6:  What about Banking? 

Answer:  My money is in a brokerage house in Ajijic, 45 minutes away.  I never go there, I just use a money machine in my town.  I get %8 minimum on investments for the past three years.  

Question 7:  Do you have local Chapala shopping – stores or mercados? 

Answer:  I get my staples just about 1/4 mile away.  I get other things in my little town 3 miles away.   It is 15 minutes to 80% of my desires and 45 or 50 minutes to Walmart, Sam’s and Costco!  

Natural air conditioning in Mexico

 Finally, here is an interesting email from the  Chapala area I received:

Hi Barbie,
My husband and I (and our dogs and cats) have now been just outside of Ajijic since Sept. AND WE ARE LOVING IT!! The Mexican people are so friendly, and the support from the expatiates and the local clubs, like LCS, are great.

I think our children and other relatives first thought their parents were crazy, but more and more we hear from everybody how much happier we sound since we no longer deal with all the issues in the States!
The big question has always been “yea, but what about crime?” well, we feel much safer here than in Little Rock, AR! Your information certainly has been helpful! — Sincerely, Maria W.  

 Now, my plea to any of you now living in Mexico, email me some info on your area – I’ll pass it on to the questioning folks considering Mexico as a possible place to retire. 

What do you think? Do you have a question about retiring in Mexico? I’d love to hear from you. If you don’t see the comment box below, read the full article and scroll down. Let me know what you think!

Chapala article by Barbie. 

questions

about

moving

the

household

(7-2011 Update at end of article)

He writes:

“My wife and I enjoy reading your info about Mexico. We are in the process of house hunting in Ensenada and would like to learn how to take our household goods (furniture, etc.) into Mexico when we move there. If you have any particular info about Ensenada and that area, we would appreciate that too.”

That’s a really good question.

HI, Bob:

This is a pretty long answer – but here ’tis:

IMPORT OF HOUSEHOLD GOODS FOR HOLDERS OF FM3 OR FM2
You must use the importation without tax privilege within the first six months of your move to Mexico…AGAIN:  All foreigners to Mexico who apply for and receive an FM3 permanent residence document are carefully instructed by the Mexican officials that the newly documented resident has the one-time right to import his used household furnishings to Mexico without the necessity of paying import duties.
All household goods must be inventoried.   (An inventory should include:   make, model and serial number for ALL electronic devices and electrical devises. You also want to list the estimated value – individually – for EVERYTHING.  You may import a quantity of used items which would be appropriate for a normal household.  WITHIN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF YOUR MOVE TO MEXICO.  New appliances are prohibited.)

The list must be in Spanish, typed in single space on white paper, leaving a space of two inches from the top.

Each household item must be numbered progressively and on a separate line, beginning with the electrical appliances, specifying make, model and serial number (including kitchen appliances).
Small household articles packed in boxes or crates must be described and numbered in the list as one box (crate) containing clothing, kitchen utensils, etc.

Each page of your original list must be signed in blue ink on the bottom, right-hand corner.

The original list, and five copies, must be presented to the Consulate General to obtain your visa.

Take your original FM3 or FM2, and five copies of the page(s) where your personal date is located.

Make sure you take five copies of your complete, valid passport, the page with your personal data, picture and signature – everything.

You will then, pay the consular fee of $127.00 US dollars, either with cash or money order, payable to the Consulate General of Mexico.  Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

Once the Mexican gov’t official receives all the requirements, it can take five business days to process your application.
You may either mail the above documents, or bring them in person. (Any thing you can do in person, we’d suggest you do – papers can get lost in the States, let alone in Mexico!)  Make sure you take proof of U.S. residency, for the past two years when you go to the Consulate.
If you decide to mail your documents and want them mailed back, include a self-addressed prepaid envelope, completed FEDERAL EXPRESS or UPS.  The Consulate does not assume any responsibility concerning mailed documents.
Consulate locations and info are listed on pages 67, 68, and 69 of Retire In Luxury.
 
If possible, get a minimum of three written relocation proposals from reputable household goods forwarders. Do this at least 30 days in advance of your planned move-out date. International moving estimates are NOT binding.

Will your household items work here?

REMINDER:
Within six months of obtaining your FM Visa, you are able to import used household goods and personal effects in quantities which would be considered normal for the number of family members in your household.
Prohibited. Furniture and especially electronics and appliances MUST have been in use for more than 6 months. Items deemed to be new may be subject to confiscation by Mexican customs officials and the owner may not get his furniture back until a substantial fine is paid. (Import taxes)
 In my book, just to review:  After you have decided to move to Mexico as a perpetual tourist, you will probably want to bring your household goods down…or just get rid of your stuff.
However, if you decide to keep your things:
Hire a shipping/moving company (there are several you can locate via internet who offer moving service to Mexico) or have a truck of your own.
Get your items inventoried.
Procure your FM-3.
Give your shipper the stamped inventories and a notarized (by Mexican Consulate) copy of your FM-3.
Then when your household goods show up at your new home, have cold drinks and snacks available to the workers.
It is wise to use someone you have received a personal reference from. Check on the chat sites where you’ve decided to move. Have every detail in black and white – with many copies available. Include price, exact performance such as packing, loading, unloading at your new home, dates, etc.

Dick and I felt it easier to

sell most of our household stuff

in the U.S., and just replace…we

planned to downsize a lot anyway

- who wants to clean and dust

“stuff” during retirement?!

Update, 7-2011: Taking Household into Mexico    

If you are a FM3 holder, (as a retiree or profit activities) you are allowed to take your household into Mexico. You must provide a list of your belongings and have it stamped by the Mexican Consulate in order to be submitted through Mexican costumes. You have six months from the date your FM3 visa was issued in order to take your household into Mexico.

 Requirements are:

• Apply at the Consular Section in person from 8:30 am to 11:30 am, Monday through Friday.
• Valid passport in original and five photocopies of the pages containing personal information, photograph of bearer and expiration date/extensions.
• Original FM3 and five photocopies.
• Letter Requesting the household address to the Embassy Of México Consular Section
• Typed list of your household in Spanish, with original and four photocopies. Such list must specify:
• Address in USA indicating length of time you have lived there.
• New Address in Mexico.
• All the articles, including those contained in boxes. All electrical appliances must indicate brand, model and serial numbers.
• You must leave space for the Consular seal in the right bottom of each page.
• Each page must be signed by the applicant at the left bottom in front of the consular official.
• The fee is $127.00 dollars by cash.
• You are permitted to take your household only once in lifetime per family.

Best to you,
Barbie

Household article by Barbie

Zihuatanejo

Imagine not one, but two hidden seaside havens, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. Let me share my story with you…     

It’s another early day and already the sun is shining brightly, the cloud layer is quickly dissipating so the brilliant blue sky is appearing.  Our ship is laying in the harbor of Zihuatanejo, 3 ½ hours north of Acapulco,         

Zihuatanejo is a dreamy, picturesque fishing village with a shallow, but inviting bay. Because of this, a tender – a small boat holding 15 to 50,  picks you up from the cruise ship, and takes you to a dock and dry land at Zihuatanejo for the usual tours of the area, shopping, eating, or just walking around and relaxing for the day.    

The transfer from the ship to the tender was one of the more exciting parts of the cruise – bouncing up and down and trying to step from a big cruise ship into a little boat was pretty unique.   

Click to Enlarge

No one had any real problem, though there was a lot of laughing and gasping by most of the women boarding. We were politely escorted everyplace we toured, filled with information, and were very well taken care of.        

Click to Enlarge

The main income for this area still comes from fishing and agriculture.  Zihuatanejo, according to our guide, translates to “The place of the beautiful lady”.      

There are many retired N.A.’s who live here both full time and part time.  Because of this not being a major port, costs are lower, and the natives, as well as the retirees here are hoping this part of Mexico doesn’t change, as many areas have, once the ExPats move in, but stays natural as it is now.     

Click to Enlarge

 Marie, our tour guide, invited us all to come visit her at her home, but she warned us, laughing, that we would have to sleep in hammocks, because they have no beds.  Because of not having air conditioning and because of the humidity and heat, I guess the hammock, with breezes blowing, is the best answer!        

The village of Ixtapa, “place of the white sand”, is just a bit north of Zihuatanejo, along the coast, and is where the more exclusive resorts are located in general. In the 70’s, the government funded the building of some resorts, to help generate additional tourism dollars.  There is an International airport about ½ hour by taxis or bus.    

Click to Enlarge

 It is very tropical here; today the temperature is 93 degrees with 78% humidity.  But, along with the beauty comes a bit of danger -  you must be aware that there are crocodiles around.    

They are found in the ponds and streams  and can even be found in the shallow ocean waters – so be careful.  Dick and I had already experienced that situation with alligators when we lived in Louisiana.  The animal patrol people were often called to remove alligators from people’s pools.  Actually, the area did sort of remind us of southern Louisiana.  

Click to Enlarge

Dick and I had a

wonderful day seeing

more of the natural

Mexico.  But it was time

to head back from Ixtapa and

Zihuatanejo, to the little boat for

a short water ride back to

the ship.     

We would have a few more days being pampered on the ship, and then a trip home, until our next adventure.       

 Do you have a question about retiring to Mexico?   You can do a search with the search box at the top-right of my site.  Type in the subject you are curious about, and you’ll find my articles involving that subject.  In fact, it will probably bring up multiple articles (1,2,3, etc.) which appear toward the bottom of the articles.  If you still haven’t found your answer,  just ask me!  If you don’t see the “write a comment” section below, click on Read Full Article and scroll down. Share your thoughts and concerns with me. I will always reply to you personally.     

     

Ixtapa / Zihuatanejo article by Barbie 

Regulations

Due to Mexico’s and the increased security at the border crossings, new Federal regulations now require that U.S. and Canadian visitors must present their passport when entering Mexico by land, sea or air.  

Exceptions: 
1.  Cruise passengers debarking at Ensenada. 
2.  If you are a cruise ship passenger.  
3.  Visitors to border regions planning to remain in Mexico less than 72 hours.
 (not 72 hours and 5 minutes – 72 hours…period.) 

Border area is defined – usually – as 20 kilometers, 12 ½ miles from the border. 

Authorities are

claiming that

the area

extends as far

as Ensenada –

but, my

husband, Dick

and I would never attempt to

travel that far into Mexico

without our U.S. passport

… just in case.  

Entering Mexico from the United States

If you are traveling beyond that point (what is considered the border area) or are remaining for more than 72 hours, you are required to present a passport and obtain a tourist card, or FM-T, which are available at the border and at Mexican consulates. 

This is the continuing saga of Dick’s and my cruise of some of the coastal cities of Mexico.

The cruise ship itself turned out to be quite a world-wide representation of every nationality imaginable, which was quite interesting in itself.  We found ourselves engaged in some very interesting conversations throughout the cruise.

Now, here’s our stopover at Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico:

The sun was just starting to peak out from behind a cloudy sky, the day we arrived in Manzanillo, Mexico.  With all the water around, the sun seems to shine brighter in the coastal areas of Mexico.  The weather was about 85 degrees, with 70% humidity – but with the ocean breeze, it was perfect. 

Dick and I decided to take the city bus tour, and after having room service for breakfast, we proceeded off the ship and into the line that was headed by a guide holding a large sign proclaiming “Manzanillo City Tour”.   By now, the sun was shining bright!  We relaxed and enjoyed the whole day, letting the tour guides take care of us.  And they did a great job, chauffeuring us around to many points of interest, in a very nice air conditioned bus, complete with rest room!

From Guadalajara, it’s 6 to 12 hours on the free road, but only about 3 hours on the quota (toll) road, which I always suggest tourists use.  Plans are to make the road, or at least a portion of it, eight lanes.  From Puerto Vallarta, to the north, it takes about 4 hours to travel to Manzanillo.

I want to include this email, that I received after the last article I wrote, mentioning earthquakes in Mexico:

The writer, Robert, wrote:
You mentioned that ” Acapulco also has the questionable honor of being named as one of the most earthquake-prone areas in Mexico !”  This brings up the question which retirement area(s) are the most environmentally stable?  That is, least likely to be hit by earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, droughts, lack of drinking water, etc..

My answer:
For earthquake info: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eqarchives/year/eqstats.php  
Make sure your home – structure is sufficient to stand up to the quakes that may happen – and they happen all the time, world-wide…did you know that earthquakes hit Yellowstone a LOT!  But, as most earthquakes, they are small and pretty much harmless.  Earthquakes cannot be forecast at this time.

hurricanes:  http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/reports/weather-events.html
Hurricane tracking makes you aware and gives you time to clear out.
 
floods:   http://www.floodsafety.com/national/life/statistics.htm
Don’t live in any designated flood zone.
 
The rest, droughts, lack of drinking water, ….  That’s up to the powers that be also.
 
Pick someplace where the cost of living is what you’re looking for, visit it, study it (read all my articles) and see what makes you happy.  There are lots of people in Acapulco living quite contentedly – also in the Yellowstone area – also along the Mississippi River (big fault there too).
 
And my writer replied with this:
Thanks for taking the time to get this info.  I just thought it might make an interesting paragraph or so in a future article you write.  Media has a way of distorting everything, particularly if it is news outside of our borders.  I do volunteer work in Reynosa each summer and you would think the place had been washed away, or everyone died of swine flu or getting shot by drug lords, or you name it.  It is like you say, do your homework. Thanks again. Robert

After our day of touring and exploring, and soaking up more information, we headed back to the ship for a wonderful dinner in the beautifully appointed dinning room, and then off to our cabin to finally fall asleep, still talking about our fun, exciting, interesting day in beautiful Manzanillo, Mexico.

In my previous post, Explore Mexico on $430, I shared my latest Mexico cruise experience with you.

Like I said, cruises are a great way to explore the coastal cities of Mexico without going out of your comfort-zone because you always have a place (the ship) to go back to when you’re done exploring for the day.

So as promised,  here are some pictures from our first stop in Acapulco! You can click on the pictures to enlarge them. Now let me tell you about Acapulco.

Most of the natives live in apartments in and the surrounding area.  A house may go for $150,000, and a very nice condo may be had for around $120,000, but condos on the beach average between $300,000 and $500,000 and up.

With a population of about 2 million, Acapulco is about a 10 hour drive from Guadalajara and around 4 hours from Mexico City (one of the largest cities in the world with a population of approximately 23 million).

Famous for its nightlife, the area still attracts many vacationers, although most visitors are natives of Mexico, and the  number one economic factor is tourism (number two is agriculture.)  

Like most coastal cities, there is a “golden zone” which caters to tourists with many  resorts, shops, services which cater exclusively to tourists in general.

Located on a deep, semi-circular bay the port began in the early colonial period of Mexico’s history.  It is a port of call for shipping and cruising lines running between Panama and San Francisco, California, United States.

The tourist resort city of Acapulco is the largest city in the state, far larger than the state capital Chilpancingo.

The resort area is divided into two. The north end of the bay is the “traditional” area, where the famous in the mid 20th century vacationed and the south end is dominated by newer luxury high rise hotels that cater to every whim and dream with the most ornate architecture, luxury first-class services complete with all of the shops and stores you would expect to find in a luxury hotel.

Yet despite this, if you shop around you can always find great deals on hotels to make your dollars stretch. Afterall, my husband, Dick, and I bought our cruise tickets for just $430. Quite a bargain if you know your cruise prices. So do shop around. Don’t ever pay full price.

By the way, Acapulco also has the questionable honor of being named as one of the most earthquake-prone areas in Mexico! Yet, despite that, it’s still one of Mexico’s most popular destinations.

How does Acapulco fair as a retirement destination? Well, it’s primarily a tourist trap, but like I mentioned before, expats do live there. You will find such conveniences as  Costco, Baskin Robins, Burger King, Dominos, McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Walmart, Home Depot and Block Buster!

All of these help make the small number of North American Expats there feel right at home.

Do you have a

question about

Acapulco or retiring

to Mexico?

Just ask me!  If you don’t see the “write a comment” section below, click on Read Full Article and scroll down. Share your thoughts and concerns with me. I will always reply to you personally.

Acapulco article by Barbie.

Going on a cruise is a

great way to tour the

coastal cities of

Mexico and “explore”

without going out of

your comfort-zone.

A few months ago, my husband and I were both at our computers rather late at night…

We are always looking for deals, any kind of a deal. It could be coupons, specials, offers, or simply the latest deal on WOOT.

Well this particular night, while reading from one of the cruise deal sites, my husband said, “Can you believe an 8-day, Mexican Riviera cruise for $430?”

Now, you are probably more experienced than I am when it comes to cruises.  I have only been on a cruise ship 3 times in our life. Yet despite that, I knew in my bones that $430 for an 8-day cruise was a very good deal.

In fact, it seemed almost

too good to be true….

See, my dear husband tends to read quickly — scanning. ‘Comes from years and years of having to read everything that came across his desk quickly, decisively, efficiently.

So we read it again. Checked the fine print carefully and son-of-a-gun!  It really was an   honest, good deal!

We didn’t have anything coming up important, so why not go?

It was the Mexican Riviera cruise and the weather should be perfect for being on the ocean and well, we couldn’t think of any reason why not, so I bought tickets for two right away.

Incidentally, we weren’t the only ones who recognized this was a good deal. The next morning, my husband headed out to get some groceries, and on his way, he stopped at friends – told them about our plans and they said, “Hey, we’ll go with you!  Tell Barbie to get us tickets for that price too!” 

So that morning, I sat at the computer and believe it or not, booked the last room available on the whole ship for our friends –  at the same $430 rate.

Oh, I didn’t mention – this was not an inside room (I don’t think I could enjoy a room with absolutely no natural light) not a balcony either, but it showed the room as having quite a large window — which would be fine — it’s not like we hadn’t see Mexico… it’s just that cruising is a heck of a way to enjoy, explore, and sight-see — while being spoiled.

Well needless to say, we all had a wonderful time. The ship was beautiful, the food was delicious, sights were spectacular  – and I will tell you all about it in my next post.

For now however, I just want to emphasize that cruising  is actually a pretty good way to see several places in Mexico and sort of get the feeling for the different areas.

You aren’t

physically

limited to the

cruise ship and

what you can see from your

cabin window…

Depending on the cruise you take, you will stop at many ports of call. There you can take off-ship city tours which gives you a great opportunity to ask pertinent questions of the tour guides, who are usually full of extra information.

When you’re done touring for that day, you return to your “home base” (the ship) relax, ponder, and enjoy all the comforts of home… and then some!

Best of all, the next day you can explore a completely new port, a new destination! It’s a very easy way to explore Mexico without giving up your creature comforts.

Just remember: I have always told would-be retirees to visit places as people, not tourists because you are seeking and searching for a new place to hang your hat in your retirement years.

While cruises certainly are “touristy”, they are however a pretty neat way to go and get your feet wet for the first time.

This way you can explore Mexico in a more-or-less controlled environment without leaving your comfort-zone.

I still want you to take your note pads and write down everything you learn and make sure you get your questions answered by people who are in the different locations.

Also you might be lucky and meet other potential retirees on board who are also thinking about retiring to Mexico. Get their email addresses so you can stay in touch. Who knows. You might meet your future neighbors!

A cruise an easy, safe way to explore Mexico. It’s a great way to take a wonderful vacation while loading up on useful info.

So keep an eye out for those specials. You might have to stay up late at night and surf the web for cruise deals.

Shop around. That’s what we do!

What do you think? Do you have a question? Need to know more about retiring in Mexico or Mexico cruises? I will try to help!

If I don’t know the answer, maybe someone else will. My site gets hundreds of hits daily and everybody is free to comment and ask questions – and answer questions, too!

 If you don’t see the comment area below, click on READ FULL ARTICLE and scroll down to the bottom and type your question.

Cruise article by Barbie.

A lot of people have asked me, “Barbie, can we take our vehicle to Mexico?”

The answer is a

simple, “YES!

YOU CAN.”

Assuming you have your FM3 Visa (180 day plus stay – up to a year –  with limitless renewals) or your FMT Visa (more than 72-hour stay and no more than 180 days) it’s really quite easy to take your car with you.

When you get to the border, you

simply register your Vehicle.

This gives you permission to use your vehicle in Mexico.  Here is what you will need:

• Proof of ownership
• Title
• Registration
• If you are still making payments on the vehicle – you need a notarized letter from the lein-holder (financial institution) granting you permission to bring that specific vehicle into Mexico.
• Driver’s license  
• A Visa or MasterCard credit card or check/debit card in the name of the person registering the vehicle.  The charge will be approximately $30US.  The alternative to putting this charge on your card is to post a refundable cash bond of around $400, depending on the age of your vehicle.  I suggest using the good old credit card for the $30.
• Passport (click for more information)
• Your FMT or FM3

That’s all there is to it!

And while not required, it’s highly recommended that you purchase Mexican Auto insurance the instant you enter Mexico with your vehicle. Luckily that’s also incredibly easy. In fact, you can pre-purchase online or stop at one of the many little buildings offering insurance before crossing the border.

Also if you’re concerned about safety or wondering how safe it is to drive around Mexico, read this article. You’ll be surprised — plus there’s a video tour at the end that I shot in our car while we were driving in and around Mazatlan, one of the hottest retirement havens in the world.

Ever since the economy started tanking, it seems like more and more people are writing me and telling me they are checking out Mexico as a way to make their dollars stretch.

What about you?

Are you ready?

Do you need more information?

Is there a question I can answer for you?

Just ask me!  If you don’t see the “make a comment” section below, click on Read Full Article and scroll down. Share your thoughts and concerns with me. I will always reply to you personally.

Remember, I am here to help you make all the right decisions. I’m always here to help.

Sincerely,

Barbie Parks
Webmaster, Author, and Retiree! :)

Vehicle article by Barbie.

Discount,

Please

Well, Christmas is almost here. Only a few more days to go. All of the family will be getting together for Christmas dinner… and of course to open presents!   

I just received this email and it prompted me to write today’s blog post. It’s from Barbara B. in the Yucatan. She writes:    

HI, Barbie. Well here we are in the Yucatan.  Can you tell me, can we buy a pickup here and put the title in both our names?      

In one of your letters you said something about people over 50 could get a card for senior discount on busses and tours etc. Can you tell me where I can get a card?  I am 81 and my husband is 86 years young. Thank God there are people like you who can help us old folks! Thank you so much. Barbara B.   

First of all, Yes, Barbara!  You can buy a pickup and put the title to it in both names.   

Now, let’s delve into one of my favorite things – saving money!  Yes, even in Mexico, residents and retirees can say “Senior discount, please” and be rewarded.  

The National Institute of Older Persons (I prefer “senior” – Barbie), a Federal program administered by DIF (Desarrollo Integrál de la Familia) was designed to enhance the quality of life for all legal residents, Mexican and foreign, who are over the age of 60.  This “Senior Discount Card” was originally issued only to Mexican citizens and foreigners holding an FM-2 immigrant visa, but now it is now available for anyone holding FM-3’s also.  

You’ll receive various discounts… on your pharmacy purchases…. discounts on your water bill, discounts to concerts, transportation, clinics, bus fare, festivals, movies, restaurants and lots more. You can read more about the whole program here  

Here’s how you get your senior discount card:

First find the DIF office in your part of Mexico. If there isn’t one, ask at the local government office where you should go to apply.  As with any office in Mexico, hours may be limited –and even their supplies. Try to go early and take a book or something to fill your time in case you have to wait. Be sure to bring with you:  

• passport
• birth certificate
• valid FM-2 or FM-3 residence visa
• photo ID such as your passport or driver’s license
• proof of residence (a utility bill in your name, deed to your home, or rental lease, etc.)
• 3 photos in “infantile” size (smaller than passport size. Any passport photographer will know the correct dimensions)
• contact information for someone to be contacted in case of emergency;

Make sure you bring least two photocopies of everything on this list.  

With all this in hand, you should be able to obtain and physically walk out of the office with the senior discount card in your hand.  You’ll find the constant use may wear them out, so laminate your cards.  You’ll probably want to make a couple of copies of them for future use too.  

And that’s how you can get your senior discount!   

So what do you think, folks? Do you have a question about life in Mexico? Are you ready to retire? Would you like to make a comment or a suggestion? If you don’t see the “COMMENT” field below, simply follow this link to the complete article and tell me what you think!   

Senior Discount article by Barbie.

to

Mexico

Each and every day I get email from people just like you who are thinking about retiring to Mexico so they can start saving money, living better, and increasing their standard of living.

With that in mind, I am sharing a few of those emails with you. They have been edited for brevity and privacy, but they all capture the spirit and essence of invididuals who wrote them.  As you read them, you’ll see these are people just like you and me. Folks from all walks of life are thinking about retiring to Mexico.

Here’s the first email from Larry who is considering Costa Rica and Mexico as retirement possibilities:

Hi, Barbie! Thanks for keeping in touch. I am in Costa Rica right now checking out what is available. There are some nice small houses close to Jaco Beach for $75,000.00. The food here is more expensive than I thought it would be. Dinner at a local restaurant will cost at least $10.00 with a beer.  That’s why I am checking out Mexico next. Thanks for all the great tips! Sincerely, Larry

Here’s an email from Joy. She’s been living in Mexico for almost 3 years now:

Hi, Barbie. We have been living here in the Yucatan for the past 2 1/2 years and loving every minute, we do not ever want to leave, except for a cruise which we do every 3-6 months.   Happy Holidays! Joy R.

Here’s one from Suzanne:

Hello, Barbie.  My family and I have been in Mexico recently and have just returned to the USA.  It was fun and full of life and culture unique as the people. My husband even rubbed raw onion on his thinner parts of his hair to make it grow in accordance with certain customs and practices! The beaches are great! So, I will retire there. Thanks for your important site.  Talk to you soon… Happy Holidays.  Suzanne M. L.

Here’s an email from Terri who is considering Mazatlan:

HI, Barbie.  This year my husband I will be spending three months in Los Ayala, Mexico and are planning to spend one week of that time in Mazatlan.  Love to read your newsletters and information.  Thanks for doing this for all of us snowbirds.  Terri D.

And here’s one from Charlie:

Hi, Barbie. Need some advise. My wife and I are moving to Mexico for 6 months to give it a try. We both have traveled there many times and enjoy it very much, however my wife’s passion is her jewelry, she loves to wear it. Diamonds, gold, you name it. She can’t be without it. Is this a deal breaker? Today she informed me she is not moving anywhere she can’t wear her jewelry. I would be very concerned about her safety. Do you have any ideas?  Thanks, Charlie W.

My Reply:   I for one don’t think a big diamond ring is worth loosing a finger for! Yes, I have them – - but sure don’t wear them indiscriminately. I have a few blog posts about saftey and traveling, and no matter where you travel (in the US or abroad) you have to be careful.

Here is a great email from Doreen in Canada:

Hi, Barbie. I really appreciate receiving your emails.  About a year and a half ago we purchased a house on the El Cid Golf Course (I’ve deleted the address – Barbie).  Although we have not officially retired yet, we do get there at least twice a year with the intention of retiring there within the next 3 years.  One question you may be able to help us with–we generally rent a car when we are there and are now considering buying a used car there.  We do not have an FM3 yet but wondering if we can still purchase a car (it would be left there) and what is the process regarding registration and insurance and if there is anything else we should know.  Doreen

A quiet bay at Zihuatanejo, Mexico

My Reply: Hi Doreen,   Thanks! I know the process for bringing a car into Mexico with the express desire of taking it back to the U.S., but to purchase a used one – I’d go to the auto dealer in Maz and see what info they can give you.  I know it’s usually more expensive to buy a car in Mexico – perhaps not always a used one – but, that sort of depends on what kind of a “bargainer” you are (remember, you will not have much to stand on if you happen to purchase a “lemon”).   An FM3 allows you to have a car in Mexico as long as the FM3 is in good stead. But, to buy a vehicle in Mexico, and just keep it there – that’s probably just going to take a lot of permits – start with the auto dealer.  See where that takes you – then, start shopping around. I also suggest pacificpearl.com and whatsupmaz.com.  But, from what I’ve gathered, talking with people, it’s a wiser choice to buy in the states, (even a used car) take it into Mexico with the proper papers, keep them updated, and then when you are done with the car, take it back across the border and do with it as you wish.  Yes, keep it insured as long as it’s in Mexico, with Mexican insurance.  Best wishes, Barbie

And finally, here is one from Debbie who discovered Lake Chapala and the Ajijic area:

Mazatlan's historic district

Dear, Barbie. I retired from teaching in June of 2007.  My husband and I traveled to Mexico (just as a drive-thru on our way to South America).  However, we stayed for about a month in the Chapala and Ajijic area.   Then that turned into 6 months; and finally, I found myself teaching English in a bilingual school and we wound up staying for 2 years.    We loved it. Because of the economy and some business we had to take care of in the States….we had to return for a couple of years.  Our plan is to return to Mexico to live when we get rid of our house here in the states.   We will probably head down toward the Manzanillo Beach area this next time.   Have a great time!  Debbie C.

So you see, more and more

people are thinking about Mexico

as a place for retiring to

and enjoying a great life.

What about you? Let me know what you think! If you don’t see the comment field below, click on Read Full Article and share your thoughts. If you have a question, just let me know. I’m always here to help.

Sincerely,

Retiring to Mexico article by Barbie.

Mexico?

Let me help!

Just in case

you’re

wondering:

Yes, you can

retire early, reduce your cost-of-

living, and live better than you do

now, in Mexico.

Rest assured thousands of people have already done it. Mexico is where they live, work, and play. People from all walks of life are living the good life for a lot cheaper than they could do it anywhere else.

Dick and Barbie

Indeed, Mexico has it all: Lower healthcare costs, pleasant weather, idyllic lifestyle, and so much more. Mexico will help you save money on practically everything you need right now. Imagine slashing your living costs by a third… or even a half. That’s a lot of money in your pocket!

YES… You CAN live, work and own property in Mexico — without having to give up your present citizenship. It’s not a trick. It’s not a loophole. It’s a fact and it’s your right.

Why put it off when virtually anyone can enjoy an abundant retirement with luxuries and amenities that — usually — only the rich enjoy… a life of abundance, prosperity, luxury. Stress free living is just that: completely stress free… and you don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy this kind of luxurious lifestyle.

So what will your life be like in Mexico?

How much does it really cost?

Most importantly, how do you get started?

This article answers all of these questions for you. My newsletter, my free reports and my books provide you all the information to retire to Mexico that you need.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to retire… a place to vacation to… a place to escape the winter months, you’ll discover why more and more people are choosing Mexico to make ends meet — and getting more bang for their bucks.

So read all about it! I’ve got lots and lots of information waiting for you right here, so dig in and enjoy.

Oh yes… and I almost forgot! If you feel like commenting on any article, please be my guest.  At the end of each article, there’s a little “add comment” feature — so feel free to make use of it. I *do* get a lot of email and keep pretty busy, but I guarantee you will always get a reply from me!

“Retire In Luxury” by Barbie

Healthcare,

IMSS

Let me tell you about Mexico’s version of Medicare.

Age is not a consideration for IMSS Healthcare.

It’s the closest thing you can get to universal healthcare in Mexico. And yes, it is available to foreign residents.

In fact, public healthcare is guaranteed to all Mexican citizens regardless of pre-existing conditions. (Foreign residents of Mexico are eligible for IMSS healthcare, without exception, other than those who suffer from chronic disease such as diabetes, cancer or heart disease. If you do have a pre-existing condition, it’s mandatory you discuss it with a doctor at IMSS to see if it would be covered later, or if it will affect your coverage as a whole.)

If you are accepted, IMSS healthcare covers only minor illness, such as colds etc., and nothing involving surgery the first year. The second year the insurance will cover everything other than broken bones, and orthopedic surgery. The third year finally covers everything. Medication is covered as well for anything needed for diagnoses, and it is provided to you during your visit. Prescriptions are not covered if you buy it at any other pharmacy. 

Any pre-existing condition that is not reported and later found to exist causes cancellation of all coverage. Again, I must stress:  If you do have a pre-existing condition, it’s mandatory you discuss it with a doctor at IMSS to see if it would be covered later, or if it will affect your healthcare coverage as a whole.

Mexico’s healthcare system is a part of their social security system called “Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social” or IMSS for short. The IMSS is a tripartite system funded equally by private employees, private employers, and the federal government.

IMSS hospitals are usually well equipped with many staff doctors known for their practices in private hospitals.

Requirements for proof of birth date, nationality, etc. can be satisfied with a current passport. Doctors at the clinic can conduct the necessary examination and determine eligibility.

Upon acceptance, cost is per person per year and according to age: as much as 3000 pesos for age 60+ to as low as 977 pesos for age 19 and under (these rates are for March 2004). The cost is subject to change from year to year.

IMSS healthcare is available in most major cities and it takes about 6 to 9 months for coverage to be activated after acceptance. Once accepted, you are a life member as long as premiums are paid.

IMSS

healthcare

consists of:

1. Clinics with general practitioner who is qualified to handle minor illnesses and injuries.

2. Small hospitals with surgeons, internists and pediatricians.

3. Large intensive-care facilities with various specialists.

The general requirements for joining the IMSS program are:

1. You will be asked to complete a questionnaire, with the assistance of a doctor. (Make sure you report all pre-existing conditions – it can put your coverage at risk if you don’t)

2. Submit to a basic medical examination which includes checking your blood pressure and listening to your heart. Other tests may be requested.

This is from one of my friends living in Mexico:

“Mexican national health insurance through IMSS (the Social Security system here) can be purchased by foreign residents. Runs around $300 or so per person per year. However, we’re in good health, and prefer to pay out of pocket for private care if and when the need arises. Private care here is so affordable that paying as you go is a viable option, depending upon your risk tolerance and the depth of your resources.”

The cost of the health care coverage is approximately $350.00 U.S. per year. You may apply only in January, February, July and August. This program is open to all foreigners regardless of nationality and/or immigration status.

Healthcare article by Barbie.

A lot of

people

have asked

me about

the cost of health care

in Mexico

Affordable, quality health care is one of the primary reasons more and more people are choosing to retire in Mexico. Quite frankly they simply cannot afford quality healthcare in the U.S. 

Yes, I’m sure you’ve heard stories from vested interests that would paint Mexico’s healthcare system in some very unflattering colors.

Bright colors of Mexico

But before you make a decision based on what you may hear or see on TV, you should ask real retirees who have been the recipients of low cost, affordable healthcare — in Mexico. 

I can tell you honestly: If I had to go to a dentist in the U.S. to get my dental work done, I would be TENS of thousands of dollars in debt. Fact.

Am I exaggerating? Certainly not. And thankfully, I have a beautiful smile for a fraction of the cost of what I would have paid an expensive dentist in the U.S. 

The quality of dental care that I get in Mexico meets and exceeds the quality I used to receive (but can no longer afford) in the U.S. 

But I digress.

As I was

saying: Health

care in Mexico

is surprisingly

affordable.

Here are some random prices from private clinics in Chetumal — down on the “tail” of Mexico –south of Cancun – in U.S. dollars:

• Private room in a hospital, $50 per day
• Exam and consultation with a specialist, $15
• Ultrasound or X-ray , $15
• Oral surgery, $50 per tooth
• Porcelain filling, $30 each.
• Teeth cleaning, $25
• Emergency room treatment, $15
• Exploratory abdominal surgery and appendectomy using video laporoscopy.
• Four-day hospital stay in a private room, all fees of the surgeon and the anesthesiologist, and medication. $1,200.

The professionals who practice their profession in Mexico after studying abroad hoping to make their country better is one reason the health care system is so friendly.  

Healthcare / health care article by Barbie

Uphold

Vehicle Law

Dick and I were stopped at one of the many temporary check spots in Mexico. There are many of them.  They can appear overnight – anyplace. 

One of the law officials came over to our car smiling and said something in Spanish and removed our permit from our car and sort of gestured that we were to stay there and wait. 

He then walked over to another car with American license tag on it and talked for a while to the driver, soon, another official who spoke some English joined them.  The whole gist of it was, a young man (the North American driver) had somehow gotten his car half way down the country of Mexico without a permit.  He was turned around and warned that he would be escorted back to the border and he was to properly take care of business. 

The second law official, after just a short while came back to our car, handed us our permit, smiled and explained “Had to show him what he needed”.  Very polite.  We smiled, breathed a sign of relief, and drove away. 

That young man was very lucky!  The law reads he could have had his car confiscated. He would have been stuck in Mexico outback without a car or perhaps even put in jail for his offense. The moral of the story:  Don’t try to get away with any short cuts in Mexico – follow their laws to the T!  They usually don’t fool around.

To take your vehicle into Mexico beyond the border zone (20 to 30 kilometers past the border with the United States) your options are:

An “Only Sonora” permit or a Federal Permit.  Both permits cost the same. Motorists are required to show proof of U.S. citizenship, car title (or pink slip) and registration, and a valid driver’s license.

1)  “Only Sonora” means exactly that – the law says – do not travel to any other Mexican state other than Sonora,  nor past a specific Sonora corridor ending at Empalme, without a Federal Permit…very limited traveling, and is good for one entry only.

2)  The Federal Permit allows you to drive your car anyplace in Mexico and allows for multiple re-entries into Mexico.

3)  A permit is not required for travel to Rocky Point and other border cities, which are classified as “free-zones”, by law. 

TO ENTER MEXICO, by law:

You need a Tourist Card, secured from the Mexican consulate or Mexican Immigration at the border check point –(we did it at the border). You will need:

1)       Valid proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate).

2)       An appropriate immigration form (tourist card)

·   Mexican Tourist Visa: Those who will travel into Mexico further than the Border Zone, or for more than 72 hours within the Border Zone, or,

·  Visa / FM3 For Temporary Resident: Those who will be living in Mexico. (Usually what retirees get.) Or,

·  Visa / FM3 For General Business: Applies to purchasing agents, importers and exporters who will attend board of directors meetings of Mexican companies, conduct business that requires notary certification, or institute any legal proceedings in court or:

· Visa / FM3 For Technicians & Engineers: Technicians or engineers who intend to repair or install machinery, or train personnel, or take tools or machinery to Mexico, or,

·  Student Visa Requirements: Foreign students who plan to study in Mexico.

TO ADHERE TO THE LAW, WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR CAR INTO MEXICO, YOU WILL NEED: 

·  The valid vehicle registration certificate, or document i.e. the original title that certifies the legal ownership of the vehicle.  It must be in the driver’s name.

· A valid driver’s license, issued outside Mexico. (U.S. or Canada are fine.)

·  An international credit card in the name of the driver of the car/vehicle, issued outside of Mexico (American Express, Mastercard or Visa).

· If it’s a leased/rented car – The contract which shows it is a leased/rented car in the name of the person importing the car.

· If you are making payments on your car, have in your possession a notarized letter of authorization issued by the lender.

· If the vehicle belongs to a company, present the document that certifies the employee works for the company.

TO ACQUIRE A PERMIT:

Drive your vehicle to a Mexican customs office at the U.S./Mexico border.  At the border crossing, go through the Declarations Lane. Look for the “Modulo de Control Vehicular” where you will present your documents.

All documents and a credit card must be in the name of the owner, who must also be in the vehicle when crossing the border.  The process is easiest if you use a credit card to post the required “return guarantee” bond. If you do not have a credit card or a Visa/Mastercard check card – get one before traveling.

You will receive your temporary permit at the border facility by leaving the Guarantee Exit Deposit Fee (guarantee exit – take the car back out of Mexico,  deposit fee – Bond, which is based on the year and model of the vehicle).  From 1999 to present = $400.  1994 to 1998 = $300.  Earlier than 1994 = $200.  And when you exit Mexico, by law, this charge on your card is reversed.

You will pay the certification fee (processing fee), non-returnable at the border, with your international credit card and that will be equivalent to approximately $27.00US.
You’ll be issued your documents, that allow you to take your car into Mexico.  That completes the process for acquiring the certificate. Keep in mind the full process is not completed until you return the certificate upon exiting Mexico with the same car.

ALTERNATE  PROCESS: 

You can do this before crossing at some of the Mexican Consulates – It’s pretty easy at the border – in my book,  Retire In Luxury, I walk you through Dick and me entering Mexico.

TO RETURN THE CERTIFICATE:  Upon your departure from Mexico to the U.S., if the vehicle is not going to be driven back into Mexico, the permit for temporary importation must and will be cancelled at Customs. The original bond posted for the return guarantee will be returned to you at this time. That’s all there is to it. Follow these simple steps and you shouldn’t have any problems.

Ice Truck

EXTRAS: The temporary authorization for the importation of vehicles is valid for any type of vehicle weighing under three-tons for periods up to six months (180 days). The temporarily imported vehicle may be driven across the border multiple times during the authorized period.Always carry the importation permit on your person when driving your car in Mexico…same with your passport.  Do not leave any documents in the vehicle!

A vehicle, temporarily imported by the owner, may be driven in Mexico by the spouse or adult children, as long as they have the same immigration status. Other persons may drive the vehicle as long as the owner is in the vehicle.  Again, in my book, Retire In Luxury,  I sincerely suggest you do not allow others to drive your vehicle.  If someone were to be stopped while driving your car, and there were ANY drugs found – you are responsible too!  Mexican jails are food for nightmares!

The car permit which you got at the border is valid so long as your FM3 is valid — with renewals for as long as you wish.

Within 10 days of renewing your FM3 or if you convert from FMT to FM3, you must notify customs to continue your registration.  You do not have to go back to the border, you can do it by mail or in person if you live near one of the 42 cities that have an Aduana (Customs) office.  There is no fee.  You will not be given a new sticker or registration papers, so be sure to keep a copy of the letter in your car attached to the copy of the registration form that you should always have in your car.  Do NOT carry the original in your car.  You will need that paper if anything happens to your car.

A traveler can take his or her luggage and additional items up to $50.00 per person or $250.00 for a family of five, never exceeding US$1,000.00 in total, when travelling by road. If you exceed that limit, make the necessary arrangements at the Mexican Customs Office.  (I think everyone has more than $50 worth of clothing…just don’t take 6 computers, two refrigerators, etc.  Take normal luggage and supplies for your trip – and declare it.

Mexican Vehicle Law article by Barbie.

I just received a wonderful email from Verl, a retiree who is considering Lake Chapala for his retirement paradise.

Verl writes: “Thanks for your correspondance. We are planning a trip in July to possibly purchase in the Lake Chapala area. It is difficult from here to get the real scoop on the most desirable retirement spots and then the best neighbourhoods, we’re shooting in the dark.  And we think we should purchase now before prices go through the roof.”

Shopping the native markets

And so, I introduced him to Charlie after assuring him that to hurry the process is not wise – prices have leveled off just as they have in the States – relax – shop around.

Charlie has  rented a three bedroom, two bath home, with a maid’s casita and bath, garage, patio and nice yard about 30 miles south of Ajijic on the other side of the Lake Chapala for $200 a month.

He lived in Ajijic while looking for a permanent place and paid the Ajijic prices for everything and out here it is about half.  Even the food, and pharmacies are cheaper a little distance from the Lake Chapala, because it seems that here everything is priced for the economy of the town.

A few months with the Gringos in Ajijic and it was an easy decision, Charlie said. It wasn’t an economic move but being away from the Gringos who do drive the prices up where ever they go it certainly turned out that way.

You may remember the article in AARP magazine that offered Lake Chapala at $800 a month.

Well the Gringos drove it up to an easy $1200 to $1400 a month at Lake Chapala.

Charlie is here to tell you that if you don’t desire the hubbub of the crowd and you don’t mind a 25 or 30 minute drive to the larger towns tell your folks that $800 a month is a breeze.

He writes, “You know the climate & beauty here, the people in the country, like in the U.S., are more friendly and helpful than city folks and the only thing we don’t have out here is the noise of the city.

 ”My advice to a prospective person coming to Mexico is to rent for a few months and look around for what fits their economic and social desires. There is something here for every one. In my community I don’t spend or act like a Gringo and I am accepted as a member of the community.”

Lake Chapala/Ajijic article by Barbie.

National

HealthCare

Program -

IMSS:

1. Available in most major cities.

2. Takes about 6 to 9 months for coverage to be activated after acceptance. Once accepted, you are a life member as long as premiums are paid.

3. At IMSS clinics you do not have a choice of physicians. 

Available in Mexico:

1. Small clinics with general practitioner who is qualified to handle minor illnesses and injuries.

2. Small hospitals with surgeons, internists and pediatricians.

3. Large intensive-care facilities with various specialists.

The general requirements for joining the IMSS Healthcare program are:

 1. You will be asked to complete a questionnaire, with the assistance of a doctor.

2. Submit to a basic medical examination which includes checking your blood pressure and listening to your heart. Other tests may be requested. The cost of the health care coverage is approximately $250.00 U.S. per year. You may apply only in January, February, July and August.  This program is open to all foreigners regardless of nationality and/or immigration status.

If you are accepted, IMSS covers only minor illness, such as colds etc., and nothing involving surgery the first year. The second year the insurance will cover everything other than broken bones, and orthopedic surgery. The third year finally covers everything. Medication is covered as well for anything needed for diagnoses, and it is provided toyou during your visit. Prescriptions are not covered if you buy it at any other pharmacy.  Any pre-existing condition that is not reported and later found to exist causes cancellagion of all coverage.  If you do have a pre-existing condition, it’s mandatory you discuss it with a doctor at IMSS to see if it would be covered later, or if it will affect your coverage as a whole.

A Medical Clinic

Medical healthcare in Mexico is unbelievably inexpensive by almost anyone’s standards.

Of course healthcare prices vary according to the region and whether you go to a private clinic or a government run facility.

Healthcare,IMSS article by Barbie

more and more

retirees

are going to

Mexico

For some retirees, the answer is “beauty”, culture, ambiance…but for the vast majority of Americans and Canadians, the number-one reason is “affordability”.  Meaning: “Cheap retirement”.

You see, the wage scale and cost of living in Mexico is why retirees want to live there.

While American dollars can be a tremendous boon to the local economies of many retirement havens and enclaves, our dollars can also backfire on us if we are not careful.

Many retirees and tourists make the mistake of showing off their dollars. They want to feel “rich and powerful” or they feel guilty because they aren’t paying enough. How do they do this? By leaving huge tips. By over-paying. By flaunting their money or giving it away in exchange for common courtesy — something which has always been free in any culture.

And when prices increase, retirees aren’t the only ones who suffer. What about the natives who are “priced-out” of the basic neccessities of life?  Expats and retirees aren’t the only ones who need to live cheaply!

Let me present a story you need to read before you retire:

The first year Jim went to Mexico, he felt embarrassed by the extremely affordable meals, goods, and rentals available  — so he covered his discomfort by leaving large tips everywhere. 

The next year he went back, and found the prices had risen,  but still affordable.  He continued leaving large tips that year, still assuaging his guilt over the still very inexpensive prices.

The next year he went to Mexico again, and found he could barely afford the higher prices that were becoming an everyday event. 

Jim struck up a friendship with a restaurant owner and eventually broached the subject regarding the seemingly never-ending increase in the cost of groceries, the cost of renting, the price of meals and prices in general. The restaurant owner frankly replied, “As long as you Americans want to pay a lot, we can accommodate that. We will find out just how much you are willing to pay for your apparent embarrassment for being rich – when you stop buying!”

Retirees / Golden Goose article by Barbie.

to abide by

It doesn’t matter where you go.

Nor does it matter whether you’re at home or abroad, in the U.S. or in Mexico.

Being safe means exercising common sense.

Here are ten essential rules to remember

1.) Stay on the well-trodden paths and byways.

2.) Stay where there are other people around.

3.) Leave your big flashy jewelry at home – preferably in a safe.

4.) Keep your money holder, whether it be a purse or a billfold, secured at all times.

5.) Keep your eyes open and be very aware of your surroundings.

6.) Carry only small amounts of cash.

7.) Always keep your passport on your person, securely.

8.) Be polite. You’re a guest.

9.) Don’t be a stereotypical “foriegner”. Don’t show off, be noisy and obnoxious.

10.) Respect the culture.

Remember, these rules are important to follow no matter where you travel.  Be wise – follow the easy rules.

Rules article by Barbie.

Retirement…

…may be just around the corner, or retirement may be a long way off, but from this day forward it’s up to you – and no one else – to save enough money to live “happily after retirement”.

As far as Social Security, the nay-sayers and dooms-dayers say it won’t be there – but, just in case it is, (and I can’t imagine any politician who values their political life not working to keep it functioning) then that will be an added bonus to make your retirement comfortable!

Ways to do it:

If your employer offers retirement savings plans…

…take full advantage of them. Contributions are taken out of your pay before taxes – and the savings will earn interest, and you won’t be taxed until you – usually in retirement – take the distributions. And, believe me, in retirement, most of us have a lower income – ergo – lower tax ratio. Win-win – you saved, let it gain interest, and the taxes will be less when you receive the money. If your employer offers a matching plan – take full advantage of it! Contribute as much as is allowed. Same scenario as above paragraph, plus you double your savings!

Once you have a plan established, don’t borrow on it! You’ll find it’s almost impossible to replace the money you already saved – and you’ll be paying back interest too boot!  Keep your eyes open for penalties! If you take distributions before 59 ½, those withdrawals may have penalties!

So, try to wait until at least age 62 to retire – you’ll find health insurance can be a huge expense on your own – try to hang in there until 65. Medicare is wonderful! 

 Now, assuming you’re a bit nearer that golden year of retirement, and have already put the above plans into action, here are a few thoughts to ruminate:  Your retirement does not involve only yourself. Your spouse or partner is going to take that ride with you.

Sit down and have many discussions about your hopes, your expectations, your desires you have for the future years. Dick and I have always found a lot of easy conversation while driving and relaxing – find a comfortable setting for you, and share.

Figure out just where your income is going to come from and how much you can plan on receiving – here, a financial advisor may come in handy. Most banks have that service offered for free, but we’ve found you can get a lot of information by just getting out pencil and paper and doing some figuring!

Pelicans on boat

By now you should have a budget figured out – see where you can cut down, where you will be able to save. Use coupons and take full advantage of sales. You’ll probably find that during retirement, you’ll have more time than money, so make a game of coupons… and don’t forget to always ask for the good old “senior discount”! Dick and I would feel really bad if we were to pay full price for almost anything anymore! 

Just for the fun of it – go though last year’s financial records…

…Find out just what you actually spent for the year, and see where you can cut down. Even if you have unlimited funds, you should feel very proud not to just waste money.

And what a wonderful lesson to pass on to your children!

Now, you should be in full retirement mode – but – woops – what happens a little later…when the car needs a major repair, the roof starts to leak or the plumbing gives up the ghost and needs a major rework – or maybe your washer just stops in the middle of the spin cycle, never to spin again? All those savings you’ve been able to put away will be a life saver.

Expenses don’t stop just because of retirement!

Saving for retirement article by Barbie

Mardi

Gras,

or

“Carnaval”.

He has an amazing story to tell you about his adventures in Mexico. It’s a wonderful narrative of intrigue, excitement and adventure, so let’s get started! This is where his tale begins:

How many buses does it take to get to Mazatlan from Puerto Vallarta? Well, in our case, four. That’s not the norm, nor the point of this story.

Before even leaving Puerto Vallarta, we had to exit the first bus we had boarded at 8:15 a.m. for a second one. Then the second bus broke down and nearly incinerated us in the mountains at 10:30 a.m. A third bus came along within 20 minutes and finally delivered us to Tepic. We arrived barely in time to catch the final bus to Mazatlan after a madcap dash through the terminal at noon. That doesn’t mean we were jinxed does it? It’s all in a day’s adventure, no?

We missed the Carnaval Masked Ball on Friday night, not because of bus delays but because we simply didn’t know about it. In fact, not a whole lot is printed about the Carnaval in Mazatlan, especially by or for gringos, and that is the point of the story

Imagine us, a middle-aged gringo couple embarking on an adventure with a minimum of knowledge, traveling by bus from Puerto Vallarta for a five-night excursion into the heart and soul of the Mexican Carnaval. At first we were disappointed to discover online that most resorts and hotels were full by January. We tried to book the main five nights of the long weekend at our favorite Bed and Breakfast, but no luck

Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, while celebrated around the world, is known simply as Carnaval. 

Carnaval (also spelled Carnival) 

in Mazatlan and elsewhere, and the selected date, is tied to the Christian calendar and varies each year. Carnaval came early this year on February 5th just 40 days before Easter.

While not on the scale of Carnaval celebrations in Rio de Janiero, or New Orleans, or even Venice, Mazatlan has has a reputation of enthusiastic attendance, growing over the years. Luckily only a few weeks before the event, our B&B called back and said they had a cancelation exactly for the time we wanted, so at the last minute we took it. We love the location, a block from Olas Altas beach and directly in the heart of Historic Mazatlan.

The B&B is a lovingly restored, two story, 19th century mansion built around a sunny courtyard. It has a beautiful pink marble staircase, a fantastic updated kitchen, a generous serve-yourself-bar, and internet access. The owners, couldn’t be more attentive, gracious or enthusiastic. They shared the party spirit of the moment with us like old friends. We love the place!

When we arrived Friday evening, we were greeted with glasses of wine as the busy, weekly Art Walk, which they help sponsor, was happening. Then they handed us ‘the earplugs’. “So we’ll need these?” we asked naively. Their reply was that we were a ‘bit close’ to one of the bandstands. An understatement indeed!

Although so perfectly situated for walking through the Historic District and accessing the beachfront Malecon, the B&B’s location is directly in-line with the musical pathway of one of at least 10 band stages along the end of the parade route through Olas Altas. In fact, sitting on the roof of the house you look directly at the stage, but also at the sunset and the ocean beyond.

There are two big Carnaval parades, one on the Avenida del Mar about a mile away on Sunday and one on Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) evening right in front of the B&B. There are also two fireworks celebrations; known as the Combate Naval (the first of which was the best display I have ever seen!); one on Saturday (commemorating Mazatlan’s victory over the French Navy in 1864) and another Carnaval display on Monday evening, along Ave. del Mar.

But getting back to the ear plugs…music is at the heart of the Carnaval celebration and is called Sinaloa Banda music.

Banda is not Mariachi music but something akin to a blend of many styles; Salsa, Mariachi, Cumbia, Merengue, and maybe you can even toss in some Jewish Klezmer music. Hate it or love it, there are 30 plus bands, over five nights, playing up and down the beachfront on bandstands from about 7 in the evening to at least 2 in the morning, and sometimes til 4!

During the Carnaval parades or in between acts on stage there are the small bands that didn’t make it into the line up and rather than allow any silence, they play on the street corners when no one else is upstaging them. This is infectious, danceable music and did I give you the impression yet…LOUD!? (And to boot, just jog four or five blocks away from Olas Altas to the Plazuela Machado where there are four more stages – we’ll deal with that location later.)

After a couple of nights, we practically got used to it almost constant music and even caught a few hours of sleep. Banda music has a distinct place in Mexico’s musical heart and creates part of the soul of Carnaval, much as Jazz does for New Orleans or Samba and Bossa Nova do in Rio.

Carnaval was “family friendly” fun, with clowns and balloons, day and night, in a way that discourages the “skin shows” and drunkenness of other cities around the world. There are loads of beer stands everywhere, setting prices from 10 to 20 pesos a can. ($1 to $2 USD) Pacifico Beer is produced in Mazatlan; so are the Pacifico Girls…you see everywhere. They still use huge 100 pound ice blocks, hauled by ‘men-with-tongs’ and chopped up to cool enormous stacks of beer. The streets ran slick with the melt-off strewn confetti. People dress up with masks but because the date was early in the year, many folks just plain dressed to stay warm in the cool evenings.

In addition to the numerous locations having street fair stuff, there is a whole wealth of entertainment and more of a purpose to Carnaval when the local residents crown various Queens of Carnaval, presented in stadiums and grand ballrooms. These gala events include much more ceremony, distinction, and are coronations of the most beautiful and talented individuals of the highest order. Past year’s queens are honored for their achievements in a ritual of events.

Food for most, including me, is a priority when I travel. Although street vendors can entice you with an economical plethora of local specialities, we found that real meals are highly important to not only provide stamina for dancing, walking, site seeing and a host of other daily events but also to avoid heartburn. We moved our focus to the Plazuela Machado in a more completely restored section of Historic Mazatlan only a few blocks from our B&B.

love my Mardi Gras beads

That reminds me, while we took the time to walk around Historic Mazatlan;we were enveloped in a wonderful ethereal sense of artistic decay and elegance somewhat akin to what Havana, Cuba is like. The antiquated charm of the abundant and strikingly different architectural styles, the restored buildings, brightly painted and filled with wrought iron works is contrasted with the ancient and deteriorated looking structures sometimes right next door to each other. It truly captured, amazed and thrilled both of us! The revival of the area began with the Angela Peralta Theater anchoring the neighborhood and gentrification has spread outward during the last decade.

The Plazuela is a focal point of Carnaval, bounded on its northern side by Calle Carnaval filled with locals selling festival goods.

Depending on our timing we either had lunch or dinner in the outdoor cafes surrounding the plaza’s shady strolling area. In the Plazuela you have the choice of sitting on the sunny side or the shady side and are surrounded by fantastic people-watching as you gaze across the central sitting area and fountains. Strolling minstrels and mimes added color, and impromptu songs and poetry by groups kept the place entertaining all day long. At night multiple stages erupted into big music productions the place was packed and rockin’ with the youth of Mazatlan. This became one crowded little plaza!

Additional sight-seeing in Mazatlan filled our daily needs. One morning we hiked to the tallest working lighthouse in the world. Looking out from the top across the ocean and all of Mazatlan we saw the cruise ship terminal and fishing fleet docks in the harbor from which the city has earned the nickname, ‘Shrimp Capital of the World”. We looked northward where the tourist, beach-mecca of high rise hotels and resorts is, known as the Golden Zone and saw the three islands just offshore.

Two different days we took a 15-minute hike to the Old Zocalo and Cathedral for more people watching. The huge, typical Mexican public market, “Mercado Pino Suarez” nearby is jam-packed full of tourist-ware, groceries, meat displays, clothing, and absolutely everything up for bargaining.

A couple of times we took an ‘indigenous’ open-air taxi ride in a golf cart-like contraption known as a pulmonía, commemorated in Mazatlan history by a monument on the Malecon.

Carnaval comes to a climax on Fat Tuesday night after the last parade, with revelry exceeding all previous evenings. The noise gets louder and the people crazier. But after throwing the last of our confetti-“In your face, baby!” we went home at midnight, showing our age, long ahead of everyone else.

Before leaving town in the morning we walked the Malecon one last time; watched the cleanup, melted ice and towers of beer still in evidence, the ocean surf pounded on the big rocks off shore, and we were entranced by one of the brave cliff divers from the pavilion near the dolphin sculptures.

After five nights, our bus ride back home was very anticlimactic. There were the same four young guys we rode the bus up with. However, now they were no longer singing, laughing in anticipation, playing loud music on their MP3’s, no more joking at the front of the bus, nor displaying the antics of youth; now they were in the back, behind us, practically soundless and like us probably sleeping much of the ride home, recovering from the exhausting and delightful party known as Carnaval!

Tom’s Trip and Carnaval article by Barbie

Earthquake

today.

Yes, things shook here and there, but there were no reported injuries or damage – from the earthquake. 

The earthquake was also felt in southern Arizona and in parts of California.

An employee in Rocky Point was reported to say, “We felt the earthquake too, but not too much. I felt it more in my body than in the building. The buildings went back and forth a little, but not too much”.

The National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration…

said there’s no tsunami warning, watch nor advisory because of the earthquake.

Interestingly there were 26 other earthquakes above 2.5 that happened around the world today. Historically, on some days there are fewer, on other days there are many, many more.

That’s just how things are on Mother Earth. :)

Earthquake article by Barbie.

Here is another email from my good friend, Lorna, who is living the good life in San Agustin, Mexico.

It’s inspiring, insightful, and full of many hopes and dreams realized.  It could be your dream, too.

Hi Barbie!

I just wanted to say thanks for the info you provide, it’s so helpful and practical!

I am not much for writing e-mails, but I wanted to tell you that I have been living in San Agustin for the last two years and I love it!

The weather is perfect, the rent is amazingly low for my 3 bed, 2 bath casita ($2200 pesos (Barbie – approxmately $220 American dollars) a month, includes water and a great gardener)!

Banana plantation

I pay aprox. $175 every 2 months for electricity, gas is aprox and I pay 300 pesos every 3 months, for phone, cable & internet. Combined is only 450 peso a month!

I live on a small pension plus I teach English at a local San Agustin school. I am the only “gringa” living in my coto, and my neighbors have taken me in with warm hospitality.

Guadalajara is a wonderful, diverse, cosmopolitan city with so much to see and do! San Agustin is only a 2 1/2 hour drive (on the Colima road) to the beaches in Manzanillo… 3 1/2 to the beaches in Nayarit… 4  hour s to Puerto Vallarta.

What more could I ask for? Life is good!

Thanks again for your newsletter, keep up the good work!

Cheers, Lorna

San Agustin article by Barbie

Real Estate

Fideicomiso

Think you can’t buy real estate in Mexico? Think again!

In places formerly off-limits, foreigners can now acquire irrevocable and absolute ownership rights to property through a 50-year, perpetually renewable, and transferable, real estate bank trust called a “fideicomiso”.

With a Real Estate Fideicomiso, you have the same property rights in Mexico as we do here in The States with deed. 

What is a fideicomiso?

It’s a bank trust secured by the Central Bank of Mexico. It is a 100% legally-binding instrument which entitles you to deeded ownership of real property in Mexico. The real estate fideicomiso was created specifically for non-Mexico citizens to enable them to own property in the formerly restricted zones. 

You see many years ago, to protect Mexico from having the wealthy countries buy all the desirable land (near the border and coastal areas) the government of Mexico created the Fideicomiso. 

In 1997, Mexico joined the International Banking Standards community — and thus a real estate fideicomiso permits non-Mexican residents to own property in Mexico. (You might be interested to know that  Most banks in Mexico are now owned by various international banks, such as Citi Bank and Chase Manhattan — so that’s one of the reasons why Mexico had to adopt the International Banking Standards.) 

A “trust” is a “trust” just about every where you go and it works the same way here. For citizens of other countries, title will transfer to a Mexican bank, which acts as trustee of YOUR interests (making you the beneficiary.) There are specific banks that have been authorized by the Mexican government and are allowed to hold a Fideicomiso. 

In a nutshell, here’s how a Real Estate Fideicomiso works: 

• The land is put in a trust issued by the federal Mexican government.
• The trust owns the land.
• You own the trust.
• The bank administers the trust. The bank has no ownership rights to the trust.  They cannot “take it back”.
• Trusts are now for the duration of 50 years, with the right to renew for 50 more years at the expiration date.

What are the basic requirements of a Real Estate Fideicomiso?

It’s simple:

1) You must have a valid passport. 

2) You must have a valid credit card (the bank trust charges are charged to this credit card). 

3) And if you are in Mexico, you must have the tourist visa issued by the Mexican government when you entered the country. You have to possess an FM-3 Resident Immigrant Visa. An FM-3 costs approximately $98.00 US per year, per person, and is renewed annually. It allows you to keep a US plated vehicle in Mexico, to leave and return at will, open and maintain a Mexican bank account, and can exempt you from capital gains tax when selling and allows you to purchase property in Mexico. 

Building a home

When you purchase a home in Mexico, you will pay: 

1) The Negotiated Price of the Property — This amount we know, as it is fixed at your agreed on purchase price.

2) The Bank Trust (Fideocomiso) — This charge can vary depending on the bank you choose, but be prepared for approximately $2,250 US.

A portion of that fee is for the bank, but the bulk is paid by the bank to the federal Mexican government. This fee covers all the trust documents, permits and the first year’s administration fee. 

And don’t forget real estate closing costs which include:

Title search to ensure the person selling the property is actually the owner or has the legal power to sell the property.
Lien search to make sure there is not a hidden claim on the property.
Appraisal to set the tax value.
A new plot plan showing the lot dimensions.
A new deed, verifying all taxes, phone bills, water bills, and electric bills, etc.
Registration of the new deed once everything is complete and all fees have been paid.
The acquisition tax, paid by the buyer in Mexico. This is fixed at 2.2% of the purchase price.
So, what are the actual costs?  This again is a variable. An approximation is: for a $150K to $200K property, about 4 to 5%, and it drops correspondingly for higher values.But…about all the charges you’ve heard rumored you’re going to be hit with… don’t get scared…they aren’t nearly as bad as you thought they would be.

A sale becomes registered (final) when it is witnessed and recorded by a Notary Public (Notorio Publico in Mexico).

At that point, title passes to the designated Bank to be held in Fideicomiso (Trust). The specific Banks authorized by the Mexican government designated to hold the Fideicomiso must pass diligent Mexican government inspection. The chosen Bank reviews all paperwork of the current owner/developer to ensure the documents are complete and legal. There are a number of Banks in Mexico who have been authorized by the Mexican government to hold the Real Estate Fideicomiso.

Title is delivered to the Bank who has been authorized to act as the Trustee.  The Bank reviews all paperwork of the owner/developer to ensure the documents are complete and legal.  The buyer is designated the Beneficiary of the Trust. The Beneficiary retains the use and control of the property and makes all the investment decisions.

It’s really a pretty simple process as long as you have someone you can rely on, like my friends in Mazatlan, who know how the process works.  I can put you in touch with them easily, they are contractor/realtors and have a very capable staff.

Just Some Good Old Common Sense Hints:

When looking at used homes, bring a small appliance with you – a hairdryer would work. Use it to check the electrical outlets – just to make sure the plugs work and that there’s actually an electric wire attached to the plug. Ask to look at the owner’s most recent water bills.  This is the easiest way to detect leaks in the plumbing.

Okay, having your dream home in  Mexico is totally possible now, legally. Please, please, don’t try getting around the legalities in Mexico. Quite differently from the
United States, they don’t put up with that! And…good for them!

The Fideicomiso also protects your beneficial rights under guidelines provided by the Mexican government and their constitution, basically gives the owner of a property full control of that property. The sole concern of the bank is to manage the property for the benefit of the owner of the trust. Trusts are established for initial 50-year periods and are in perpetuity renewable. You, the beneficiary, may build upon, tear down, add to, improve, mortgage, sell & will, etc. You can transfer or assign you interests to any person and keep the profits from sale of the property, subject to applicable tax laws and expenses.

Property held under a trust may be passed on to future generations, and the person to whom the bequest is made is not burdened with inheritance tax.Investors should contact a contractor/realtor who has a qualified attorney who can walk you through each step.

The Bank will not issue a developer the right to apply for and form a Fideicomiso on their lots until they are satisfied with all documents and satisfied that the subdivision process has been completed. When title to your property is in a bank trust, there will be annual administrative fees set by that bank.

From the first, when I started researching the possibility of retiring to Mexico as a U.S. citizen, I heard that foreigners can not own property in Mexico. Then after learning that was a misconception, I still heard…Yes, but you can’t own near the coast… Wrong again!

Mexican law now allows foreigners to own real estate where once it was forbidden. Ownership of land within 50 kilometers (approx. 30 miles) of the coast is made possible by setting up a Bank Trust.

There are laws governing foreign ownership of land within 50 kilometers of the coast or 100 kilometers (62 miles) of the border. To ‘buy’ property in these areas, it’s very simple – you need to use a “Bank Trust” a Fideicomiso — that legal, government-sanctioned System.

Just remember:

Buying real estate in Mexico is easy. All you need is a fideicomiso — and you can feel safe and secure because  you have the same rights in Mexico with a Fideicomiso as we do here in the States through a deed. Yes, it’s that simple!

Real Estate, fideicomiso article by Barbie

If you’ve been thinking that perhaps escaping South of the Border may be the way to make your $’s stretch, read this selection of my emails! 

These are but a small sample of the emails I’ve received from some very happy, fortunate retirees, who now are calling Mexico their home – at least a part of the year. 

When you begin thinking of retirement in Mexico, you will have no need to feel you are like the “Lone Ranger” – heading off into the neverlands – you will be jus