Archive for the ‘Living in Mexico’ Category

Mexico Real Estate - Avoid Old Misconceptions.

Friday, October 30th, 2009

When buying Mexico real estate, education is vital. If you don’t familiarize yourself with the facts and realities associated with Mexico and its real estate opportunities, you’re likely to end up basing your decision on old misconceptions and outdated opinions of the misinformed. In fact, listening to old misconceptions is one of the top mistakes Canadians and Americans make when thinking about buying Mexico real estate, and it often causes a loss of excellent investment opportunities.

Mexico Real Estate

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about Mexico and Mexico real estate, particularly in relation to ownership laws, crime and the quality of local infrastructure. For example, many Canadians and Americans believe that Mexican roads are terrible to travel on and that gas stations are few and far between. However, the truth is that the majority of roads in Mexico are very good and that the number of gas stations is certainly more than adequate.

Other old misconceptions that prevent many Canadians and Americans from purchasing property in Mexico are that foreigners can’t own Mexico real estate and that Mexico is a dangerous, crime-ridden country. However, once again, some simple self-education will reveal just how misguided these perceptions are. To begin with, it simply isn’t true that foreigners aren’t able to own real estate in Mexico. Furthermore, the per capita crime rate in Mexico is actually significantly lower than it is in the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada.

In addition to the lack of truth in the above misconceptions, potential buyers of Mexico real estate should also be aware that Mexico has a strong, growing economy and that the Mexican government has demonstrated a commitment to improving infrastructure with the construction of new highways and other projects. It’s also becoming easier for foreigners in Mexico to obtain title insurance and traditional mortgage financing.

Consequently, once you stop listening to the misinformed and learn the real facts, it’s not surprising that Mexico is considered one of the top retirement destinations in the world. With its amazing climate, gorgeous natural surroundings and affordable housing prices, Mexico is not only an excellent place to live, it’s also an excellent place to invest. So to ensure that you don’t miss out on an amazing investment opportunity, listen to the facts and avoid old misconceptions.

Photo Credit: Wonderlane

Mexico Real Estate: How to Buy Property in the Right Place

Friday, October 16th, 2009

In recent years, Mexico has been a real estate hot spot for Canadians and Americans looking for retirement or vacation homes. After a visit to our sunny southern neighbour, many tourists are drawn not only by the good weather but by the culture and pace of life. Of course when we’re on vacation it’s easy to fall in love with a place. We wake up every day and get to enjoy whatever sights and activities suit our mood. There is little stress in life and as a result we can easily be convinced that buying vacation homes in Mexico is a great idea. And it is. Unfortunately, many investors fail to take the time to do the proper research. Buying property in a foreign country is different than buying at home. At home you’re familiar with the communities, amenities, facilities, and housing prices. You either know or can easily access an expert who knows which areas have peaked in prices and which areas offer a great long-term investment. So why, when shopping for homes in a foreign country like Mexico, are buyers willing to spend their savings seemingly at the drop of the hat? Whether you’re mesmerized by the appeal of a beach-side community or you incorrectly conclude that if everybody else is buying it must be a good deal, it’s easy to make mistakes when buying property in Mexico.

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First of all, you need to remember that as far as climate is concerned, Mexico offers different risks than most of the States and Canada. Indeed, in Canada, although the weather can be quite cold, destructive weather effects are quite rare. On the other hand, like you would expect in the Southern U.S., Mexico faces its share of inclement and dangerous weather. Hurricanes are of course the main topic of weather discussion and must be considered when purchasing property in Mexico. Mother Nature somehow manages to always have the last laugh. Imagine investing your retirement savings into a Mexico home that’s in a high risk hurricane zone and seeing it destroyed by the devastating effects of a hurricane. There is plenty of research available to help you choose a region of Mexico that is low risk for hurricanes and therefore a more sound investment for your future. Areas like the Baja Peninsula, the west coast of the Gulf of Mexico from Matamoros to Veracruz, and the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula including Playa del Carmen, Cancun, and Cozumel are all high-risk hurricane zones. Granted, these are some of the most popular tourist regions in Mexico but investing in real estate here can certainly present interesting challenges. For the security of your family and your investment it is much more advisable to consider low risk hurricane zones like Villahermosa, Acapulco, or Baja North. If you’ve got your heart set on coastal property, your safest investments will be between Acapulco and Huatulco or the region east of Veracruz on the Gulf of Mexico. Typically speaking, the west coast of Mexico, with Pacific Ocean beaches, tend to be low to medium risk hurricane regions while the east coast with Gulf of Mexico beaches sees more tumultuous weather.

Once you feel confident that hurricanes are not a major issue, you can consider what kind of property suits you best. Many visitors to Mexico stop in regions like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen and are drawn to the fact that these areas are well-developed, offer excellent amenities, and a wealth of properties to view. On the other hand, being the most well-developed tourist regions in Mexico makes property in these regions among the most expensive in Mexico as well. Moreover, the influx in tourism every winter means that infrastructure is taxed as you’re inundated with people from 4-6 months out of the year. For some people looking to buy in Mexico, this may be exactly what you want. Providing you have the funds, you’re welcome to shop for homes in regions that have the most restaurants, shops, and tourist facilities. However, many people looking to invest in Mexican real estate want to get a better deal. Likewise, some of you would be drawn to a more relaxed environment where you can enjoy some peace and quiet. All the bells and whistles of a big Mexican resort town do nothing to pique your interest. As such, you should consider regions where the tourist boom is just beginning. The towns are friendlier, are more representative of Mexican culture, and provide greater long-term investments.

Perhaps the most important step in your search for Mexican real estate is finding a great representative. A real estate agent with a track record of success will likely have a wealth of knowledge about communities in Mexico and where you will find the biggest bang for your buck. Do the research first and you’ll almost certainly find a home that you can enjoy in Mexico for years to come.

Tulum Real Estate

Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009

Mexico certainly has no shortage of seaside resorts but Tulum, located on the Yucatan Peninsula, is renowned internationally as one of the finest sites for investigating Mayan ruins. Historically, Tulum likely served as a central defense post for the Mayans and the city today boast remnants of an ancient protective wall that once surrounded it. It is believed that the city was originally called Zama but renamed in recent times after the Mayan word for “wall.” As it sat at the intersection of major land and sea trade routes, Tulum was once a thriving civilization that today stands as one of the best remaining examples of fortified Mayan cities and is home to a host of ruins and artifacts. With various temples, fortresses, and buildings to explore it is no wonder that Tulum attracts tourists from around the world.

Tulum Mexico Real Estate

In addition to the historical significance of the region, Tulum benefits from its location on the Mayan Riviera. Just 80 miles south of Cancun, tour buses have been regularly delivering visitors for day trips to the ruins for years. Yet recently, the city is beginning to build a name for itself in its own right. Development in Tulum was initially spurred by the popularity of the archaeological site but the town and hotel district are expanding such that the city is highly respected beyond its link to Mayan cultures. The warm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean meet long stretches of silky white sand and the kinds of ocean adventures associated with Mexican resort towns are on hand. From snorkeling, diving, and parasailing to swimming and kayaking, the welcoming Caribbean Sea awaits you in Tulum. Beyond the coastal attractions throughout the area, you’ll also have the jungles to explore. Fresh water cenotes which connect to underground water ways can be toured for a one-of-a-kind diving experience. Combining these splendid historical artifacts and buildings with the natural beauty that travelers identify with the Mexican Caribbean, Tulum has quickly become a favorite destination for visitors to Mexico.

Finally, as the tourism industry in Tulum has continued to expand, business and infrastructure developments have followed. The city center offers a range of culinary delights, unique markets and shops, and hotels while maintaining a charming small-town feel that is highlighted by its friendly and welcoming citizens. It seems almost shocking that a town which is home to some of the best and most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico as well as a thriving tourist industry has managed to stay so quaint. Nevertheless, in Tulum you’ll find the amenities and activities offered by big name resort towns like Cancun or Puerto Vallarta as well as a vibrant and thriving Mexican culture that holds strongly to its roots.

In recent years, Tulum has become the target of much real estate investment. Hotels, condos, and other housing developments have made their mark and yet Tulum continues along much as it has always been. Because it is a much smaller city which only recently gained attention as a beautiful tourist destination, home buyers can still find some great deals in the area. Retirees and expatriates or even those shopping for a vacation home will certainly be attracted to Tulum’s stunning landscapes and marvelous ruins but also to the relatively inexpensive properties that can be found. Tulum might even be described as one of the best places in Mexico to get a bargain vacation home without sacrificing the beaches, activities, and amenities that have become synonymous with Caribbean coastal resort destinations. Plus, as the region continues to gain more recognition world wide as one of Mexico’s premier tourist spots, home owners can expect to see a very quick return on investment. Regardless of whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a place to retire in peace, Tulum certainly warrants your attention.

Golf comes to La Paz

Wednesday, September 16th, 2009

Golf as a sport has grown in popularity considerably over the past few years. Retired professionals like Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, and Gary Player have managed to build successful careers designing golf courses that complement resorts and vacation homes around the world. La Paz is a Mexican resort town in Baja that has managed to create a quaint and friendly vacation community without compromising the more authentic aspects of Mexican living. It is a vibrant seaside location that offers a range of activities and amenities to attract tourism such as diving, snorkelling, and kayaking. Meanwhile, La Paz holds rank as one of the cleanest and safest cities in Mexico to live making it particularly interesting to expatriate communities. Now, with the introduction of a world-class 18-hole golf course in La Paz vacation and retirement properties throughout the region became even more desirable.

Mexico Golf Real Estate

Paraiso Del Mar is the first golf course to be developed in La Paz and constitutes only a small portion of a 1700-acre golf resort and residential development plan. Located on a peninsula flanked by the Sea of Cortez and the Bay of La Paz, Paraiso Del Mar was designed by Arthur Hills and Brian Yoder to take full advantage of the sandy, untouched natural beauty of the peninsula. By focusing on environmentally conscious development, Hills and Yoder have managed to create a course of the highest possible standard that relies on natural topography and geography to exemplify an outstanding golf experience. Moreover, the architects of the course attempted to be truly innovative in their design. Firstly, the course features Seashore Paspalum grass which requires less watering than standard golf-course grass making it much more sustainable. In addition, this course has absolutely no rough. Instead, the fairways are bordered by sandy banks serving as a reminder of La Paz’s unspoiled natural backdrop. The details of this course are proof of the designers respect for the lay of the land. Little was done to artificially mould the landscape and golfers will experience this fact first hand. The rolling hills of the course present challenges to even top golf professionals as even tee-boxes are influenced by the natural topography. Paraiso Del Mar therefore stands not only as the first golf course in La Paz but also as a model of the world’s great courses.

While La Paz has much to offer in regards to real estate developments for vacationers or retirees, the development of golf courses is sure to make the region more attractive. For many North Americans, golf and vacations are synonymous and resort destinations are clued into this fact. As more and more tourists are looking for premier golf vacations, the popularity of golf resorts has skyrocketed. La Paz is therefore ideally situated to draw home buyers. As far as real estate investment is concerned, few Mexican cities can compete with what’s on offer in La Paz. Of course we expect to find warm and sunny weather year round, pristine beaches bounded by clean, cool waters, and the vivacious Mexican cultural identity, but La Paz offers more than our expectations.

Since La Paz has been identified as an exceptional resort community, real estate and infrastructure developments have been thrown into high gear. Nevertheless, the true beauty of La Paz is always on display. In fact, it is perhaps the rugged and untouched natural surroundings that have put La Paz on the resort map. Vacationers the world over descend on La Paz for access to the hundreds of islands in the Bay of La Paz, to enjoy some of the world’s greatest snorkelling and diving, and to breath in the sights and sounds of a city that embraces it’s cultural heritage. Combine the fact that La Paz is emerging as a tourist center while maintaining a strong link to its roots and you can see why La Paz is ideal for investment. With the spring opening of the Paraiso Del Mar Golf Resort, the future of La Paz as a vacation or retirement community seems solidified.

La Paz Real Estate – Hotspot in Mexico

Friday, August 21st, 2009

The stunning seaside city of La Paz offers dry, warm and sunny year-round weather and the kinds of activities and amenities you would expect from a resort destination. With one of the highest standards of living in all of Mexico, La Paz has recently seen unprecedented growth leading to new real estate and infrastructure developments. The true beauty of La Paz is demonstrated by its position as the eco-tourism capital of Mexico. Easy access to the hundreds of islands off the south coast of the Bay of La Paz make it an ideal location for exploring marine environments and the many endemic species in the region. Moreover, water activities such as diving, snorkelling, and kayaking are among the best you’ll find in North America. Indeed, La Paz is a favourite location for water fanatics as the city boasts several marinas, boatyards, sailing tours, and more.

La Paz Real Etate

Still, La Paz is more than a beach community. Recent real estate developments such as Costa Baja Marina and Golf Resort are a testament to the growing popularity of this location not only for Mexican residents but expatriates as well. Between 1985 and 2007 the population of the region has swelled from 36,000 to more than a quarter of a million and yet still maintains itself as a pleasant and friendly city. As tourism continues to grow it may seem unbelievable that the area is still ecologically oriented and offers a cultural experience that many of the larger resort destinations have forgone. Nevertheless, amenities abound. From first-rate restaurants, pubs, and music to shopping and beach destinations, a visit to La Paz is eventful and entertaining.

La Paz Mexico

Perhaps the most attractive qualities of the region lie in the unspoiled natural surroundings. The city is serenely positioned along the Bay of La Paz and is surrounded by a backdrop of impressive mountains. Blue skies and warm temperatures are the standard in La Paz which is one of the reasons that so much investment has come to the city in recent years. Shopping for real estate in Mexico can be overwhelming as there are no limits to the number of beach destinations and resort developments. As such, many buyers are inclined to invest in the big market regions like Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen or Cancun simply due to familiarity. La Paz is a diamond in the rough. With a small community feel in addition to superior amenities and entertainment options, purchasing real estate in La Paz is a no brainer. Enjoy the sun, sand, and warm bay waters of La Paz and you’ll also find that you can escape the tourist throngs. While still a favourite destination of international tourists, La Paz has managed to maintain a level of anonymity that allows the city to remain quaint and friendly.

Playa del Carmen - Centre of the Mayan Riviera

Monday, August 10th, 2009

The coastal city of Playa del Carmen is ideally situated on the Caribbean Sea approximately 70km south of Cancun. Boasting some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico and year round sunny weather it should come as no surprise that Playa del Carmen has become one of the premier tourist destinations in the country. Indeed, along with the beaches comes a wide variety of world class water activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and parasailing. In addition, as this fine city served as a rest point for Mayans travelling to the island of Cozumel, the peninsula where Playa del Carmen is situated is a great spot for touring Mayan ruins. For example Tulum, the last Mayan outpost, is less than an hour from the city and is known for its collection of ruins. Clearly, there are a number of interesting attractions for the tourism industry.

Play del Carmen Beach

Originally a small fishing village, it wasn’t until later that tourism became a major player in Playa del Carmen. With the addition of a ferry to the island of Cozumel and access to world renowned scuba diving tourists began to notice the charm of the city. Because it’s much smaller than Cancun, Playa del Carmen was considered a great vacation alternative for tourists who wanted to escape the crowds. Moreover, there was no sacrifice to be made in choosing to visit this growing city as it is home to stunning beaches, lush surrounding jungles, and countless outdoor activities.

Play del Carmen Beach Bar

Most recently, Playa del Carmen has become a popular destination for cruises as well. As the geographical centre of the Mayan Riviera, the area has grown rapidly over the past few years. The development of Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue, has given tourists and residents a plethora of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and shopping to enhance their Playa del Carmen experience. In addition, residential developments make the city an ideal location for those looking for a great vacation or retirement home. The expatriate community is certainly beginning to assert itself here. More and more foreigners are descending on Playa del Carmen in part because of the striking natural surroundings but also because it is a more relaxed alternative to more established tourist regions. While still not on par with the size of the tourist industry in traditional Mexican destinations like Cancun and Acapulco, Playa del Carmen offers the amenities of these famous cities with a slightly more low-key atmosphere.

Playa del Carmen Fishing

The history and culture of this fine beach destination mark it as a must see for any travel enthusiast. However, this is more than just a spot for a quick stopover. Housing projects, including the development of high end condos and vacation homes, such as Paseo del Sol and El Faro by Cantex Realty make Playa del Carmen a great place for investing in property. Living in Playa del Carmen brings year round sunny weather and average temperatures of 25°C, soft, sandy beaches along the Caribbean coast, and top tier facilities you would expect from a premier tourist destination.

Puerto Vallarta - “The Friendliest City in the World”

Monday, July 20th, 2009

As far as Mexican resort cities are concerned, few compare with the fame and beauty of Puerto Vallarta. Located on the Bahia de Banderas of the Pacific Ocean, Puerto Vallarta is blessed with a tropical climate, impressive beaches, and all the amenities one would require. For the most part, this region of Mexico relies on the tourism industry, with 50 per cent of economic activity derived from the industry. Indeed, North American and domestic tourists are attracted to the sun, sand, and relative safety of the area. During the peak tourist season from November to March, Puerto Vallarta is a bustling sea-side city which lives up to its name as “The Friendliest City in the World.”

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Since the 1960s, Puerto Vallarta has rapidly expanded as a major resort destination. With the Mexican government investing in infrastructure, such as roads, airports, and utilities, throughout the sixties and seventies, the city became easily accessible by air and ground. During this expansion, greater numbers of Mexicans descended upon the city to vacation. Seeing the possible influx of tourist dollars as a boon for the area, Puerto Vallarta was upgraded to the status of “city” in 1968 clearly marking the government’s intentions to develop the region as an international tourist destination.

Following early tourism trends, the late seventies and early eighties was marked by rapid expansion and development of luxury hotels. With a devalued peso, the city was a bargain for international tourists, especially from the United States. The mid-eighties as it were brought an obvious spike in tourism thereby stimulating further development.

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In recent years, Puerto Vallarta has also become a premier retirement spot for North American retirees. As more retirees are attracted to the city there has been a great deal of development with regards to condominiums in addition to hotels and rental apartments. Expatriate communities throughout the city are obviously drawn to the warm climate and friendly people as well as the opportunity to invest in beautiful properties. In addition, Puerto Vallarta offers safety and convenience much like we would expect from our home cities. While poverty has become an issue over the past 20 years, the city is still regarded as one of the safest destination in Mexico. Moreover, the rapid growth in tourism over the last two decades has allowed Puerto Vallarta to develop amenities such as art galleries, restaurants, and golf courses making it a versatile destination that transcends its beach vacation status.

Obviously, Puerto Vallarta is a great place to buy property because of the climate and geography. Whether people are searching for vacation homes or retirement property, the city has a wide range of appropriate accommodation so that home owners can relax and enjoy the comforts of Mexico. Moreover, the city is often overlooked as an interesting cultural destination. The colourful Mexican celebrations derived from its Spanish and indigenous history make Puerto Vallarta a vibrant city to behold throughout the year. It almost feels commonplace for the streets to be filled with parades, music, and dancing. There are also world-class amenities such as restaurants, art galleries, and symphonies to be enjoyed.

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Not surprisingly, as Puerto Vallarta has continued to grow as a city with regards to infrastructure and amenities, there have been several developments underway. Because it’s still a relatively small city, with a population well below 300,000, construction is not disruptive to the natural charm of the city. Tropicasa developments include condos and homes throughout the area. Most of these new sites are focused on sophistication and elegance making them ideal vacation or retirement homes.
Many of these homes or condos have spectacular views and offer the kind of convenience you would expect. Walking distance to the town or beaches, fully equipped luxury kitchens, and access to the tropical jungles that surround the city are only a few of the benefits buyers can derive from new developments. The new construction definitely appears to cater to those looking for luxury. No expense is spared from zoned air conditioning and spa bathrooms to marble floors and granite countertops. Whether you’re on the market for a condo or home and even regardless of your price range, luxury seems impossible to avoid because of the discerning tastes of previous buyers throughout the area. Rest assured, Tropicasa developments are state-of-the-art but they are also flexible when it comes to budgets.

Clearly, Puerto Vallarta has gained notoriety as a tourist favourite from year to year and recently has become a favourite spot for buyers of vacation and retirement homes. With a wide range of home comforts and beautiful beaches set against the backdrop of tropical jungles it is easily understood how Puerto Vallarta has evolved into a world-class resort destination.

Mazatlan - Mexico’s Pacific Pearl

Thursday, July 2nd, 2009

Nestled on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, Mazatlan is aptly nicknamed Mexico’s Pacific Pearl.  Perhaps best known as a popular beach resort, Mazatlan boasts a long stretch of stunning coastline, breathtaking ocean views and fabulous weather.  Situated just to the south of the Tropic of Cancer and just across the water from the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, Mazatlan is home to approximately 500,000 residents and is the second largest coastal city in the country.

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While Mazatlan offers a relaxing, tropical atmosphere, beautiful surroundings and an enticing climate, it also has many other noteworthy characteristics.  With plenty of shops, bars, beach clubs and an array of great cafés and restaurants, Mazatlan is certainly not lacking in convenience and sophistication.  This coastal city is also an excellent place to enjoy the outdoors, whether you prefer a leisurely pace or an active one.  Mazatlan offers world-class sport fishing, scenic walks along the ocean, swimming and surfing.  Also, with majestic palm trees, the sparkling blue ocean and stunning sunsets, it’s easy to understand how this jewel of a Mexican city came to be called the Pacific Pearl.

With so much to offer, it’s not surprising that a growing number of people from the United States and Canada are traveling to Mazatlan to experience its charm and beauty for themselves.  And it’s also not surprising that many of those travelers return on a regular basis after their first visit.  Of course, in addition to the exquisite natural surroundings, climate and atmosphere, there’s another characteristic of Mazatlan that keeps people coming back — its affordability.  And this affordability also makes Mazatlan a prime location for Americans and Canadians to purchase real estate, whether for a vacation home or a permanent home.

Mazatlan Homes

While it’s easy to find rental units within a short distance of the beach in Mazatlan for $500 per month, many people develop such a strong attachment to the area that they prefer to purchase their own property.  And in many cases, they can do so very affordably.  While Mazatlan is divided into several different real estate districts, the average price for a home with two or three bedrooms falls in the range of $150,000 to $200,000.  Even attractive Mazatlan homes with gorgeous views of the ocean can be found for less than $200,000 while beachfront condominiums typically range from approximately $300,000 to more than $400,000.

Whether you want to put down roots in Mazatlan’s main shopping and entertainment district, known as the Golden Zone, or the elegant and architecturally delightful Old Town, the Pacific Pearl has a wide range of affordable real estate options.  Trendy condominiums, hilltop houses and colonial homes in need of restoration can all be found in Mazatlan, so there are great choices for people with all different tastes and preferences.

Mazatlan

In addition to being affordable, Mazatlan is also easily accessible by bus and plane, and is serviced by an international airport with flights to several major American and Mexican cities.  This accessibility further enhances Mazatlan’s attractiveness as a regular vacation destination and is another reason why more and more people are making Mazatlan their destination of choice.  With all that it has to offer, calling Mazatlan home, whether all year round or just for part of each year, allows you to enjoy an unbeatable lifestyle that provides the very best of relaxed resort living and sophistication.

Safe Living in Mexico - Not as Seen on TV

Thursday, June 18th, 2009

Bullets flying, heads rolling and bodies piling up — that’s what the media would have us believe is an accurate description of the current situation in Mexico.  Understandably, such portrayals have instilled fear in many people, causing them to question whether or not it’s really safe to live in Mexico.  However, as many Americans currently living in Mexico will tell you, the American and Canadian media are often overly broad and extreme in their descriptions of the situation in Mexico, resulting in a significant exaggeration of the present dangers.

Mexico Real Estate

Undeniably, parts of Mexico are experiencing problems with drug-related violence and conflict.  And, yes, sometimes tourists and foreign residents do become victims of crime and violence.  However, those are facts that apply to many countries and regions around the world.  The truth is that terrible things can happen anywhere, whether it’s in Mexico, the United States, Europe or Asia.  That’s simply the unfortunate reality of the world today.

Now, that’s not to say that caution isn’t called for.  There are certain regions of Mexico that are currently not advisable destinations as a result of the violence and other problems they are experiencing.  However, the majority of cities and towns in the country are still just as safe as they ever were.  By paying attention to travel advisories and the advice of knowledgeable travel guides or agents, it’s easy to avoid the more dangerous zones and to find great places to enjoy safe living in Mexico.

Moreover, by using common sense and by following standard advice and warnings that apply to traveling or living in any foreign country, you can enhance your safety and avoid unnecessary dangers.  For example, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, no matter what country you are in.  Also, avoiding excessive displays of wealth in public and refraining from engaging in illegal activity will also help to keep you safe while in Mexico or anywhere else in the world.

Allowing fear and panic generated by overly broad and exaggerated media descriptions to prevent you from experiencing life in Mexico will cause you to miss out on so many great opportunities and amazing adventures.  Mexico is a country that is full of vibrant culture, stunning beauty and resilient, warm people, and missing out on living in Mexico as a result of misconceptions and unnecessary fears would be a true shame.  So remember, with common sense and awareness as your companions, you can still enjoy everything that Mexico has to offer while keeping yourself safe and out of danger.