by Johnny Punish

Recently, the Liceaga Winery opened up a weekend outdoor restaurant under the oaks.  Always up for the new experience, my wife and I rolled in with an open mind looking for a little fun, wine and a day with good energy.

The summer day was warm at around 80 degrees by 1pm.  We entered Liceaga’s brand new entrance gate and drove up the brand new gravel driveway, we were able to see the massive encinos (oak trees) and there in the shade we saw a roasting seasoned lamb on the spit.  Of course, once we opened the door to the car, the aroma of the basted meat cooking was inviting us to come on down and share a taste of Mexico.

We sat down on the park benches with some relaxing classical Mexican music.  We ordered our favorite Liceaga wine, the “Sofia”; a rich textured peppery blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon.  With a glass full of the afternoon delight, we looked to add a bit of mesquite fired lamb to the table and complete the day with perfection.

Being the menu was non-existent, we ordered what everyone else was having; barb-b-qued lamb tacos with all the Mexican condiments i.e…salsa picante, cilantro, fresh lime on a homemade fresh flour tortilla.

Oh my, what a taste!  I was in the open air with my favorite friend, good music, a glass of red wine, and day in the park.  It really was perfect!

So we sipped our wine and engaged in a nice conversation with two ladies from San Diego who came to the Valle de Guadalupe on a day trip.  The sophisticated ladies were originally from the State of Chihuahua but have been living in the USA for over 20 years.  They explained that they love to come down to Mexico for day trips to enjoy the culture, weather, and ambiance.  They especially love visiting the wineries because they are so quaint and unique.  Most travelers don’t even know they exist so they have it all to themselves, well except for us right?

After our meal and drink we slipped out from the oak forest full in the tummy, happy in the mind, and free in the spirit….back on the wine country road less traveled again!

Another great day in Mexico

About the Author: Johnny Punish is a musician, artiste, writer, entrepreneur, and world traveler.  He’s written extensively on politics, art, business, and things that matter.  Listen to his music and check out his writings at JohnnyPunish.com

]]> http://www.bajawine.info/2010/09/lunch-under-the-day-trip-oaks-at-liceaga/feed/ 0 http://www.bajawine.info/2010/08/annual-baja-book-festival-in-rosarito/ http://www.bajawine.info/2010/08/annual-baja-book-festival-in-rosarito/#comments Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:06:30 +0000 yanira http://www.bajawine.info/?p=1433 Baja Book Festival 2010

Rosarito is a city between Tijuana and Ensenada.  Rosarito is another city in this area which has many fiestas and cultural events.   Here are two of the events which will be coming up over the next month and a half.

On Saturday August 21^st 2010 the monthly garage sale will be held by Joanna Jones Galeria y Café.  This is a monthly event which will be from 10 AM to 4 PM.  Come search through all of items they have available so you can bring home your own treasures.

On October 9^th 2010 Rosarito is celebrating their annual Baja Book Festival.  It will be between 10 AM to 5 PM.  They are receiving support from the community and have received sponsorship from The Secretary Of Tourism, COTUCO, Baja Times, ICBC, BajaBound, Baja Good Life, Friends of the Library and many others.  During the event there will be tickets sold for the public raffle, coffee, pastries, regional food and book readings for children.  Please visit their website for more information.  www.BajaBookFestival.com If you would be interested in sponsoring the event as well you can contact them with the information below.  They will also be looking for artists to exhibit their works.

Contact Jo Ann Knox

• Mexico (646)-193-0072
• US          619-630-1170

Location:

Joanna Jones Galeria y Cafe
KM 47.6 Carretera Libre
Cantamar, Rosarito, Baja

These are some of the upcoming events:

by John Vogel

We decided to head to the Ensenada Se Viste De Vino on Sunday August 8^th 2010.  The majority of events during the Wine Harvesting Festival cost money to attend, and so it was nice to have something that we could enjoy without paying the usual fees.  

This is a festival which lasted from 1 PM to 11 PM featuring a wide array of food, wine and music.  It is sponsored by “Canirac” which is the National Chamber of the Restaurant Industry and Gastronomy.  The event took place on Calle Ruiz between 1^st and 2^nd streets.

The day was beautiful with the temperature hovering around room temperature.  A nice refreshing day considering we are in the middle of summer at the moment.  The feel of the festival reminded me a bit of my time back in New York City where we would attend the annual San Gennaro festival in Little Italy.  I understand that San Gennaro is supposed to be a religious festival, but over the years it has become more of a festival geared towards fun, games, food and drinks.  There was something about this festival which made me feel like I was back home enjoying something very familiar to me.

As you enter through the “taquillas” or ticket area, you are given the option to purchase tickets which come in 20 peso stamps.  The general entrance is free, but the tickets are nice if you would like to sample the wines and food as you walk through the stands.  The wineries that were available that day were L.A. Cetto, Valmar, Sto. Tomas, and Tanama.  There were also a couple of smaller wineries that graced the festival with their presence.  We also had the joy of speaking to Cava Aragon who produces a wonderful red wine called Madera 5.  This is a Tempranillo Cabernet from 2008.

It was nice to meet Yoli from Valmar and get the chance to really speak to her on a personal level.  Their family is a very nice one who welcomed us from the time we entered the festival.  I was able to try there Chenin Blanc which was wonderful and refreshing on a sunny day.

 After moving on to the next booth we were welcomed by Ricardo of Tanama.  This is someone we have been in contact with for a couple of weeks now, and so it was nice to finally put a face behind the name.  He as well was very welcoming to my wife and I.  He asked us to sit with him at his table and enjoy some Sangria.  Once again a great drink to share on a beautiful sunny day.  We got the joy of listening to him speak about the great strides that the wine culture has taken in recent years.  We also were allowed to hear his views of where he sees the wine country going in the near future.  There was a lot of information covered in our discussions and that is something I will have to post under his winery on another occasion.

I think this was something that makes this wine festival so appealing.  I kept thinking if I went to Napa Valley would I be able to sit with some of the heads and owners of the wineries there?  I am sure the answer would be no unless I had a prior invitation for a special event.  I think this is something that makes the wine country so special here in Mexico.  It’s a place where you can tour the wine route and stop at each winery getting to know the people who run them on a personal level.  This festival proved that to me once again.

Aside from the wine there were a lot of food vendors as well.  It was nice to be able to sample the foods from various local restaurants all in one place.  There was everything from paella, pizza, fresh homemade pastas with seafood, sushi, ice cream, and even various pastries.

All in all I would say that this festival really made me understand why I have been so fascinated with not just the wineries, but the people behind the scenes at the wineries.  I love to hear their stories of why they are doing what it is that they do.  It’s nice to hear about the direction in which the future years will carry us.  I am really happy to be here in Ensenada in a time where it is still possible to do all of the things I have spoken about here.  

This place really is special and not just because of some of the award winning wines which are coming out of here, but for the personal touches you can taste in each glass.  It was a great day at a great festival shared by people from all levels of the industry.  The public seemed as pleased as my wife and I which could be seen from there smiles while sitting at the tables which were set up, and enjoying the wine and food this festival brought to us.  

Thanks so much to all who were involved in this wonderful day, and to all of those who made us feel so welcome.

by Johnny Punish

I’ve read many articles about living and retiring in Mexico. A good number of them tell of the good and focus on a specific market. These are mostly written by local business people aiming to attract you to a certain project to purchase.

As an artist who is neither a real estate salesperson or travel agent pushing an agenda, I felt it’s time to have a real discussion and look at the very best places to retire with real Pro’s and Con’s so the reader can really make an informed decions on where to go that serves their needs, interests and ambitions.

First to put this comprehensive report together, I have consulted with highly experienced Ex-pats who have lived and/or live in the places that I rate here. For me, through my travels, I have met these amazing people who really know and walk the talk and it’s been an eye opening experience.

So, without further wait, here’s The Johnny Punish Top 10 Places to Live and Retire in Mexico and the reasons why…

1. Lake Chapala, Jalisco
2. Ensenada, Baja California
3. San Miguel de Allende, Guanajato
4. Guadalajara, Jalisco
5. Merida, Yucatan
6. Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo
7. Mazatlan, Sinaloa
8. Puerto Vallarta, Nayarit
9. La Paz, Baja California
10. San Cristobal de las Casas Chiapas

1. Lake Chapala, Jalisco (Winner)

According to Kristina Morgan of Focus on Mexico, she says “Of all the places in Mexico I have been, none can quite compare with Lake Chapala. There’s something about this place that just seems…magical. And as corny as it sounds, that’s the word I hear people use to describe Lake Chapala time and again. Lake Chapala gets into your heart and becomes home. It’s like stepping back 50-70 years here regarding the simpler lifestyle, culture and values. When I’m here I feel like I can be me, like I can breathe a little more freely and be the person I want to be and this is a sentiment expressed by most everyone who has ever been here or lives here”.

Kristina has lived in the Chapala area for 5 years before returning to Colorado, where she lived for another four years. She says “There wasn’t anything really wrong with our lives in Colorado but we also knew there was much more to life than we were able to experience in our daily suburban grind. I wanted to live my life on purpose, not by default. So we made a list of pros and cons and quantified each and returning to Lake Chapala won by a landslide. In our case, this was a giant leap of faith. We were not retired, had limited savings and three small children to think about”.

Many people said Kristina and her family were crazy. But yet, those same people now say they wish they could do what they did. Kristina tells them that they can and that it just takes a detailed dream with action behind it.

Lake Chapala used to be just a retirement community but in the last 10 years that’s changed and a lot of younger families and entrepreneurs are moving there for the obvious business opportunities and lower cost of living.

The Lake Chapala community is comprised of a string of villages, mostly on the north shore, with Ajijic being the crown jewel of the area in terms of artisans, charm and amenities. Horses clopping down the road, vendors selling fresh fruit, women weaving, live music everywhere from classical to salsa and teenagers helping their grandmothers are common sights. There’s a happy hum of activity there.

For us, the most compelling reasons (besides raising our children here) are listed below.

Pros

The Climate
The weather, of course, is a huge draw. National Geographic touts Lake Chapala as the 2nd best climate in the world. The Lake is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains and is a mile high, like Denver, Colorado so we have very little humidity. The distance inland is still close to the ocean but far enough away to not have to worry about storms and hurricanes off the coast. We have all the same flora as Hawaii as well as the same vegetation in arid states like Colorado—pines and palms—growing equally well, side by side!

The most-developed expat/English infrastructure in Mexico
You may feel like you’ve stepped back in time, but there’s still a lot to do here, from golfing, to boating, to organized group activities including a community theater in English, two American Legion posts, the Lake Chapala Society, churches in English in every denomination, concerts and events (the Bolshoi Ballet even came to Ajijic!), live entertainment, world class restaurants that will impress even the most seasoned palate and much more!

So many people have a love affair with Ajijic and the Lake Chapala area that it is the largest expat community anywhere outside the U.S. and Canada. I figure 20,000 expats can’t be wrong. But as Latin World says, “Despite being home to one of the heaviest concentrations of North Americans in Mexico, Lake Chapala doesn’t feel quite as Americanized as other retirement enclaves in Mexico.” I believe that is due to the fact that this isn’t a resort area catering to tourists, but rather a place to adopt a new way of life and be a part of a community.

There are also many real opportunities to get involved and make a difference through any of the numerous charities here if you want to volunteer your time. The rewards are greater than any paycheck.

Affordable, top-notch medical care is available
Though it may sound surprising, the University of Guadalajara boasts an excellent medical school. In fact, many U.S. doctors are educated there! There are excellent facilities, doctors, specialists and medical staff in Mexico and a major benefit is that they are readily available (no long waiting periods). Many of the doctors even speak English and often have taken some training in the United States or abroad. The doctors here have such a gift for listening carefully to you and not making you feel as if they don’t have time to spend with you. They even make house calls! There are two clinics here and there are world-class hospitals in near-by Guadalajara that resemble 5 star hotels but at a fraction of the cost.

Proximity/Accessibility: Guadalajara, airport, coast
One of the reasons we chose Lake Chapala is its easy access to other places of interest in Mexico. Ideally located about 40 minutes from Guadalajara (Mexico’s 2nd largest city), 25 minutes from Guadalajara’s international airport, and as close as 3 hours to the pacific coast and an easy 11 hour drive to back to the U.S. so it is easy to trade the frigid winters and the wilting heat of summers north of the border for paradise. We wanted to know that they can get back home quickly if we need to so being so close to the airport makes being home in a few hours possible. It is interesting to note that travel is part of the culture in this area, for Mexicans and retirees alike and the low surcharge at the airport in Guadalajara makes flying more affordable.

Low cost of living
I didn’t move to Mexico to spend a lot of money! It has been said that Lake Chapala is the place to be if you want a bargain and all the amenities you’re used to from back home.

Home prices are still low here. I know people who have looked into different retirement destinations all over Mexico and say they have found the best deals here. We also have an MLS, which almost nowhere else in Mexico has so it is easier find the right home for you. On the coast, you must purchase property through a bank trust but because we are inland you are allowed to own property outright through a direct deed.

We pay our maid about $35 USD a week for 15 hours of work. I never could have had a maid for 15 hours a week while we lived in Colorado. The average cost for a single person to live very well is $1800 a month but I know many people doing it on significantly less than that. We can have a steak dinner for $12.00, with wine and there are fresh organic foods and a weekly farmers market available as well. Labor is very inexpensive here, too so if you are interested in custom work or art, etc it’s easily within reach.

All of this adds up to a lifestyle there is no way I could afford to duplicate in the U.S. and that it would be hard to give up.

This is a real community
To me, this is the most compelling reason to come here. People come to Lake Chapala for the weather and lower cost of living and end up staying because of the people. Lake Chapala still has a small-town feel to it. It seems like everyone knows everyone and the people, both Mexican and expats, are very friendly and look out for each other. This area also has the largest singles population owing to the sense of safety and community here. It is said that people are nicer here than they were back home. The Mexicans are still very warm and welcoming, largely due to the fact that most of the transplants are very cognizant that we are guests in their country and we try to be as gracious and considerate as our Mexican friends are. There is still an old-world, genteel flavor here. Mexicans embrace family, customs and tradition and tend to dote on their children and cherish their elderly. The people who come here are frequently in awe of the close ties in our community and how quickly they are welcomed and accepted. I haven’t seen anything like this anywhere else in the world, not even in other places in Mexico.

A safe and secure environment
Despite a rather negative media representation which focuses on drug related violence, Mexico is actually a top choice when it comes to safety. The conflicts which make the headlines are mostly limited to the U.S. border area; the majority of the country is virtually unaffected, and news of these unfortunate events is as distant to these areas as it is to the U.S., and in some cases, even more so.
“In Lake Chapala violent crime is almost unheard of,” points out Shawn Gaffney. “In Lake Chapala, the citizens walk the streets at any time of day or night safely and confidently.”
Statistics back this feeling of comfort; in most parts of Mexico, violent crime is significantly lower than in large U.S. cities.

Stunning beauty
Lake Chapala has breathtaking sunsets over the lake, and majestic mountain views. Flowers are prolific and seem saturated in bold color. There are charming cobbled streets with stone walls and fuchsia bougainvillea draped like petticoats over the tops. The best way to give you a picture is that people say it looks like Hawaii. The vivid color here is whimsical and artistic, with many murals all over the area, including some that are painted on houses and businesses. There are at least 3 waterfalls in the area and thermal springs that will transport you with their relaxing and curative properties. Sundrenched terra cotta tiles, mesmerizing vistas and tropical foliage make it feel like you’re on permanent vacation—but without the heat, humidity, tourists, hurricanes or expense.

Solid investment
When you’re considering a place to retire, no one wants to flush their money into an area where they would have a hard time getting it back out if they ever needed to. This area is at a steady growth rate with promise of more future growth, especially with the Pan AM games being held in Guadalajara in 2011 and some of the water sports competitions being held at Lake Chapala. You’ll get a lot of bang for your buck now while knowing your money will grow here.

Slower pace of life:
We can learn so much from the people here about what is truly important in life. For those who are seeking to simplify their lives, Lake Chapala should be on your short-list. This isn’t a “time is money” culture. Mexicans work to live while many of us have lived to work. In general, the people here have their priorities straight. It’s all about how you treat people and recognizing that each day is a gift to be lived fully and graciously.

Cons

Altitude
At a mile high, some people who have COPD or other severe respiratory illnesses may find this is a little too high in altitude for them. However, some people report feeling far better here and being able to sleep better than they ever could. The elevation is also a major reason we have such a temperate climate and why the area isn’t prone to natural disasters.

Language
If you move to Mexico you’re going to have to learn at least a little of the Spanish language to get by. Some people find this daunting and intimidating. The good news is that compared to anywhere else in Mexico, English is spoken to one degree or another by most people.

Small villages
If you’re looking for a big city feel then Lake Chapala isn’t for you. Think quaint fishing villages with an old world feel and modern amenities and you’ll have the idea. However, village life has its benefits in safety and community and if you need a break from the tranquility and want to head to the big city then Guadalajara is just up the road.

Noise levels
This can be said about any area in Mexico but I still think it needs to be said. Village life is noisy with live music, church bells tolling at all hours, roosters who crow all day and night, fireworks, parades and processions, parties and cars driving by announcing everything from their wares to who has a fresh catch of fish down at the pier. On Mother’s Day, some lucky moms are woken before dawn with mariachi bands serenading them outside their window. If this would drive you crazy, then be sure to look for homes on the outskirts of the villages or in a planned development, or gated community. Thankfully, there are a lot of places to choose from to escape the noise.

Not a Business Mecca
For those young and agressive, they will be disappointed because the Lake Chapala area is NOT a mecca for business. Business gets done but for the most part, retiree’s are slower more set in their ways and thus are not seeking big opportunities so trying to sell them something using a carrot for the future can be frustrating and will land you in the “con man” category real quick.

It is not the ocean
Lake Chapala is Mexico’s largest lake at 77 miles long and 13 miles across but if your heart is set on a daily routine of drinking a margarita on the beach with endless waves stretching out to the horizon then this isn’t for you. While this is the largest lake in Mexico and the conquistadores thought this was the ocean when they first arrived here, it is still a lake. But the lake is beautiful and ideal for sailing, swimming and recreation and the ocean is just three hours away.

In short, Lake Chapala is a one in a million place with everything it offers. Of course, one size doesn’t fit all but if you’re looking for a paradise with a low cost of living, an established English infrastructure and activities, modern amenities, near-perfect climate and a friendly and safe community, come visit Lake Chapala and see if this might be for you. To help you in making a decision, Focus On Mexico offers 8-Day Educational Programs to Ajijic and Lake Chapala, Mexico (2nd Best Climate in the World). Join them on a Focus program and learn why thousands of Americans and Canadians chose to retire in Lake Chapala.

Their programs offer the perfect balance; a wonderful vacation and an insightful, educational experience. Our expert speakers cover all topics: Health Care, Real Estate, Legal System, Immigration, Bringing Pets, Cost of Living, US Taxes for Americans, Non-Residency for Canadians, Living on the Lakeside, Investing in Mexico, Mexican Economy and much more… You’ll get everything you need to help you decide if Lake Chapala, Mexico is the place for you, plus have a lot of fun doing it. Retiring in Mexico couldn’t be better.

Watch This Video

2. Ensenada, Baja California

According to John Vogel of BajaWine.info, the major travel and info site covering the Valle de Guadalupre wine country in the greater Ensenada area, he says “In Ensenada, you have everything that a major city could have but it’s still a small family town” The weather is very temperate between 60 to 80 F mostly all year round. It’s never too hot or too cold in Enenada as it’s on the Pacific Coast in a bay so it’s somewhate shielded by direct ocean winds. For Expats, it’s an easy transition because Ensenada is really half Southern California half Mexico. Most speak English as the border is just 1 hour away. So travel back and forth is relatively easy. It’s a major benefit for those that want to live an Mexico lifestyle but still get the San Diego Chargers game every NFL Sunday for a little tailgating.

Pros

• Close to US Border
• Easy going beach weather
• Inexpensive
• Very little rain fall
• Family friendly city
• All kinds of events held almost every weekend

Cons

• Airport is in Tijuana about 1 hour away and San Diego International Airport is about 1 hour and 30 minutes away by car albeit, there is a border crossing that could take from 1 to 3 hours depending on time of day.
• Anti-septic Mexican culture meaning that the culture in Baja is more close to the USA culture as it’s a mixed culture. If you’re looking for authentic rustic old Mexico, Ensenada is NOT the place to be. This is San Diego South and the peoples of Baja are a hybrid of Mexico and USA.
• You must have a car to get around.

3. San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

According to Rebecca Fass of Singles of San Miguel de Allende, a local socialite and bon-vivant, San Miguel de Allende is “the most wonderful place on the planet”. This place is probably the most well-to-do city in all of Mexico. With world class arts, music, and amazing restaurants with the highest end peoples from all over the world, SMDA is the most equistite classy place to live in Mexico. So if your looking to hob-nob with the rich, famous, artsy types, and peoples who really hold their own at the highest levels, SMDA is the place to be.

Klaudia Oliver, Relocation Specialist in San Miguel says “I can´t speak for that many places in Mexico but I can certainly suggest that San Miguel is THE top destination. Why? Because there is an overriding sense of well being which permeates the inhabitants of this beautiful colonial town. There is a swirl of social events and it’s like a college campus for baby boomers with cultural and social activities constantly”.

Pros:

• Amazing Cultural Beauty
• Old Mexico Meets the Well Healed Traveler
• Small Town full of super interesting Internationally reknown people that you will get to know quickly
• English spoken everywhere
• 3 hours away from Mexico City and all it’s available big city offerings
• Friendly small town atmosphere
• Beautiful architecture and history.
• Excellent nightlife

Cons:

• Not close to major city or airport
• High Desert elevation means it’s cold in winter and hot in summer
• Extreme temperatures mean that in one day can go from high 80′s at high noon and then into the 40′s at night.
• Very expensive to live.
• Feels like living on a desert island since there is nothing within an hour away.
• Nearest airport is in the City of Leon; about an hour and a half away.

4. Guadalajara, Jalisco

The weather is amazing; Perfect really! Guadalajara is the 2nd largest city in Mexico. So if you are used to living in the city, then you will enjoy Guadalajara as it is the very best big city in Mexico. Guadalajara is NOT as inexpensive as it used to be but you can still find bargins if you look hard. Great shopping, malls, activities, and excellent perfect weather make Guadalajara the best city to live in Mexico.

5. Merida, Yucatan

An old colonial city in the heart of the Yucatan jungle. It is very hot and humid mostly all year round and so you must love warm to hot weather to enjoy Merida. Amenities are excellent. According to resident Expatriate, Randy Bowser, he says “I live in a very nice 2 bedroom house, living room, kitchen, dining room, 1 bath front and back yards and fully gated, I pay 3000.00 pesos a month, which translates to about 270 dollars. The water bill is 5 dollars a month and electric is about 50 bucks a month. Progresso, our closest beach, is a fabulous place to swim. It’s only a short 20 minute drive from the house. There are so many things to do here; art, markets, museums, theater and so much more”.

Merida is about a 4 hour bus ride from the major resorts of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It’s a Mexican business working city where prices are low and life is excellent.

6. Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo

Welcome to the Jungle! The Riviera Maya includes Cancun in the North, Playa del Carmen in the center and Tulum in the South and all points inbetween.

According to Bil Mabra , an Expat who is a resident and businessman living and working in the Riviera Maya running of Mexico Real Estate, he says ” Even though the cost of living in the Riviera Maya is a bit higher than other areas of Mexico it is still way more affordable than any state in the United States or Canada. When you figure that when you retire you will need to adjust your life to be able to live on about 30% to 40% of what you were making each month when you were working full-time. Think about it, can you live comfortably on $1500usd per month where you are now? In Mexico you certainly can. Can you afford a housekeeper 2 times per week where you live now? In the Riviera Maya you can. Realistically if you own your home then your expenses will consist of utilities, upkeep, taxes, food and entertainment. A retired couple with an income of $1500 usd per month can live very comfortably in Mexico even in the Riviera Maya which is slightly higher than the rest of Mexico”.

Even with the real estate market in the U.S. Taking a huge dive, the properties in Riviera Maya are still cheaper. Consider buying something that is not right on the beach but possibly walking distance or a 5-10 car ride to the Caribbean ocean. Right now you can find 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom condos and homes from under $50,000usd to $200,000usd depending on your budget and your needs.

What can you buy currently near the beach in San Diego, CA or Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, FL for under $200,000usd? Chances is are if you do find something in that price range in those areas it will require major repairs or it might just be an empty building lot. A caveat to this is property taxes each year. How much are property taxes in the U.S.? Most homes and condos in the Riviera Maya the property taxes are less than 1% per year of the property value. Lastly, upkeep on your Mexican home will not cost you as much because the cost of labor is a fraction of what it is in other countries.

If you are retiring then a question everyone has is about health care.

In the Riviera maya there are 3 Top hospitals—2 of them are run by a group from Spain called Hospiten. The other is the American Hospital in Cancun. Hospiten is recognized for being a top notch medical facility the world over and is on par or above most health care facilities you find in the U.S. And Canada. Most of the Doctors and nurses that work at Hospiten are bi-lingual so even if your Spanish is not that great you can still communicate very effectively. There have been many old rumors and wives tales that have been dispelled over that last several years when it comes to healthcare in Mexico. Now it is an every day occurance for people to migrate from the U.S. To have all types of medical procedures—everything from cosmetic surgery to heart bypasses and everything in between are now common place in Mexico. Compare the cost of healthcare and medications in Mexico to the cost in other countries and you will find the cost is usually more than 50% less.

The Riviera Maya climate is tropical but the actual daily temperature does not vary that much from the winter time to the summer time. Yes, summertime there is more humidity and it gets hot but typically there are only 3 months of the year where it is very hot from July to September. A lot of people take their vacations during this time if they want a little break from the heat. The other 9 months of the year it is very comfortable.

Highs in the winter time are usually around 84 degrees fahrenheit with lows in the high 60s to low 70s. Highs in the summertime are typically around 93 to 95 degrees with more humidity in the hottest months. If you come from a colder climate it takes a few months to get acclimated but once you do it sure is nice wearing your shorts and flip flops in January and February.

Living in the Riviera Maya also allows many people to get in and out of the country very easy. There is an international airport currently in Cancun servicing many major cities daily in the U.S. And Canada. Another airport is now being built near Tulum, Mexico. Getting to and from the Riviera Maya of Mexico has never been easier. Depending on where you nee to go usually within a few hours you can be most places in the U.S. Or Canada.

As far as amenities go, how about going shopping at Wal-mart, Costco or Sam’s Club and then going to have lunch at Applebee’s? Yes, now in this area of Mexico there are mostly all the creature comforts which all of us have grown accustomed to such as high speed and wireless Internet, satellite TV and GSM mobile phones.

20 years ago, this was a small fishing community. From Playa del Carmen to Tulum. Now, because of the influx of European and Mexico City money, this area has exploded. This is good for many reason, people choosing to now move and live here, have all the necessary amities that one could need. The beaches are some of the best in the world. Miles and miles of white sand and beautiful Caribbean warm waters.

Because this area is the largest resort area in Mexico, many people who live and work are from elsewhere. So the area does NOT have long standing family ties like some of the older more established areas of Mexico. Thus, from a family friendly standpoint, this is NOT the highest rate place. But really, its’ the most beautiful as there is nothing like the beaches of the Riviera Maya. Nothing Compares! If you love the ocean and beaches, this is for you all the way!

7. Mazatlan, Sinaloa

Mazatlan is a local Mexican resort city. It is older, inexpensive, and has a wonderful older downtown with excellent cultural rustic Mexican life. Excellent seasfood in this very unique resort town.

8. Puerto Vallarta, Nayarit

Life in the pacific tropics is excellent in Puerto Vallarta. Lovely fun downtown, great restaurants. Prices are relatively high for Mexico and so its’ not for the budget retiree.

9. La Paz, Baja California Sur

Inexpensive city life on the Sea of Cortes. Near Cabo San Lucas, La Paz is a family friendly small city. It’s very hot so its’ not for those that love colder climates.

10. San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas

Randy Bowser, a well traveled botonist who’s live in Mexico for over 10 years says ” I lived in San Cristobal de las Casa for 1 year and have to say really liked it a lot. The truest of Mexican culture exists in San Cristobal. It’s 5000ft above see level. It does have a chilly feel to the climate year round but the beauty of the area is well worth the trade off. It’s not really a viable place to live for the younger generation but for those retiring from life and wanting a slow, relaxed, peaceful existence, then this would be the place for you. It’s a magicial place.

About the Author: Johnny Punish is a musical artist who has lived in Mexico for the past 11 years. Please visit his official web site at www.JohnnyPunish.com

I always say to people who are moving to Mexico and ask me my opinion; to make a list of the pro’s and con’s as if they are doing it in a relationship that is falling apart. I say this as many people move to Mexico merely for the great weather and low cost of living.

Yes we have great weather and the overall expenses living in Mexico are, on average, lower than living in the major 1st world countries.. But some things are definitely more expensive and so there are trade-offs. But the really wonderful thing about living in Mexico is the lifestyle.

Some people have a difficult time adjusting to getting up early, as they did in the US and finding everything closed. Because Mexico’s culture is a bit more laid back, some new expats get really frustrated when things are not getting done on time. But for those of us who love the life style of Mexico and moved here to get out of the rat race, it’s just a matter of adapting to enjoy that we can sleep in and mix business with pleasure.

We fit in and show up late or don’t get things done on a schedule as we cannot even walk across town without meeting several people we know and stopping to chat.

As for doing business, it always starts personally asking about your family and being familiar. And so, patience, is a key virtue in order for one to have success both economically and socially in Mexico.

For me, the great thing about living in a Ex-pat community is that you make friends easily and everyone gets along so well. Even when we live in a large city or a small pueblo in Mexico we always seem to be in a small town as we are a town within the town. It’s quite different in a special way.

I mean you find yourself meeting great friends with whom you have much in common. Back in your former 1st world life, due to geographic, cultural, social & economical situations, you’d never have come in contact with such people probably because you would never make the time to know them. But this is Mexico and it broadens your circle of friends and business partners whether you like it or not.

Furthermore, its’ a safe place to live. I mean, here, family and friends are very important in Mexico so neighbors look out for each other. You don’t walk down the street looking over your shoulder or worrying about your purse or briefcase or pick pockets. It’s an amazing adjustment to understand for those who come from more aggressive societies. At first, they don’t believe it but after some time, they learn to figure it out and then relax to enjoy the life.

We also have a wonderful health care system, great restaurants, and many charity possibilities. The highways are in great shape making travel within this beautiful country great for day trips, weekend trips, and week long trips. There is no drive in Mexico that you don’t see mountains along your journey. The vistas are magical. There is always a photo op along your trip.

There is no reason to travel anywhere else once you’re here as the possibilities are endless; except to travel home to visit friends and family. However, friends and family usually prefer to visit us here.

Mostly, Mexico has almost every product available that you had at home. However, there is always one thing or another that you miss that is special from home. But once here you find new products to replace what you once thought you needed. You just have to be open minded and ready for a new adventure.

In regards to the food, you will find yourself healthier here as we eat fresh vegetables & fruits and free range meat. We walk everywhere instead of driving our cars. Everything is within walking distance and each walk you meet friends and stop to talk. Or you come into a street festival or something that stops you to observe or to photograph.

Personally, I live in San Miguel de Allende in the State of Guanajuato and people ask me what gym I use. I say the hills of San Miguel and at first they believe that is a club. It’s not…..it’s just the walk I do each morning from house to the Jardin (center of town).

This country for Ex-pats is like one large Cheers bar as you’re never alone. You may want to spend a night alone or with one special friend but suddenly it is a party and you run into friends from another Ex-pat community you know.

You’ll find yourself no longer watching TV as your life is full with rich experiences and many friends. There seems to be no reason to be home alone. For me I am a single woman and there is such a great support group of strong, independent, self-sufficient women to go out with.

A friend recently commented to me that women do not move here to meet men. I know that is true as I run Singles of San Miguel, a singles site for our community, and I know the demographics that there are more women here than men. The reasons are many. We move here for a change of life style and great support system of friendship.

You find yourself within a new larger family group of many friends here. Life is wonderful.

In Mexico, there are people who come here year after year for the same week,  month,  summer or winter. They all return and they all end up moving here.  As Mexico becomes you and calls you back. Here in San Miguel we are geographically in Heart of Mexico. But for me I like to think that we people living here are one heart beating as one.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Rebecca Fass has traveled to over 70 countries. She’s a U.S. Vietnam Veteran. Rebecca Fass is a designer and owner of Bekka Designs. She also markets and plans events for El Rincon de la Malinche in San Miguel de Allende. She’s also the Co-owner with Kathleen Carroll of Singles of San Miguel de Allende and writer of the “Best to Do in San Miguel”, a web newsletter you can subscribe to by emailing Rebecca at rebeccahfass@aol.com.

Tres Valles is another larger scale winery in Valle De Guadalupe.  It is located in San Antonio de Las Minas.  To arrive at this location you head down Route 3 and take the only paved road on the right towards San Antonio de Las Minas.  From there you will follow the signs to Tres Valles.  You can visit the website at www.vinostresvalles.com.  This winery has guided tours but also required a reservation.  So call ahead at (646) 178-8052 or email them at vtvmexico@prodigy.net.mx.

The project for Tres Valles was started in 1999 when a group of friends agreed on their desire to develop and learn about wine. It wasn’t long before this group had the opportunity to develop their first harvest.  The idea for the first harvest was to make a wine that could be shared with family and friends, but after the great results they decided to formulize the project and launch the products to market.

They then started the company Vinos Tres Valles S.A. de C.V.    The name was given because Tres Valles means Three Valleys, and the grapes used come from the 3 most important valleys for local wine production in this region.  The three valleys are Valle de San Vicente Ferrer, Valle de San Antonio de las Minas and Valle de Guadalupe.  The image and brand were inspired by the first local settlers in this region with the idea that they also would be spreading their culture and traditions across the world.

At VTV they produce “honest” wines utilizing what nature provides them by respecting the soil, water and climate.  VTV has agreements with different farms  from  the three valleys where they receive their grapes.  The farmers provide the land to grow, and VTV provides their knowledge of grape vines.  Because of this each year the quality of the grapes and the wine are constantly improving.

The winery itself was constructed using the same principles that are applied to the company which are honesty and simplicity, and respecting the natural environment which surrounds it.  It has a fermentation area with stainless steel tanks and a beautiful aging cellar.

Please check back in the future for our own personal experiences while visiting this beautiful winery.  We look forward to the day that we can finally enjoy our time viewing this area.

The phone number to schedule a tour of the winery is (646) 174-6155.  Reservations are required to tour this winery.  The hours are from 9 AM to 4 PM Monday thru Friday, and 8 AM to 12 PM on Saturday.  You can also email them at ksaenger@montexanix.com.mx and visit their website at www.montexanic.com.mx.  The following information on the winery was taken from their website.

History

Our first 20 years of history have served to confirm that the value’s upon which Monte Xanic was founded, were the right ones:  to be pioneers in both process and technology, as well as to position ourselves in the Premium market; to proudly proclaim that we are Mexican; and to produce wines of a consistently high quality.

Hans, Richard, Manuel, Eric and Tomas were 5 friends who had a dream to create a winery that would produce high quality local wines.  It was 1987, the border had just been opened to foreign wines, and a number of local wineries were closing down as a result of their inability to compete with modest quality wines that were being sold in a market that believed all imports were superior.  In spite of that, they dove full force into their project consolidating a brand that today is the benchmark of the Mexican Wine Industry.

As for the name:   “Xanic” originates from the Cora Indians who continue to inhabit parts of Nayarit, on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, and which means “flower which blooms after the first rain.”

Check back at a later date for personal experiences that we will share when visiting this beautiful and well known winery.  This is another one of our trips that we are planning to complete very soon.

Our wine region is located inland from the ocean between seven to fifteen miles which provides stable weather and constant maritime breezes. Cool evening winds give character to the fruit, and a long warm growing season provides for ripe, full -bodied premium grapes.

Ensenada has become the “wine and food” capital of Mexico and you’ll find many local and regional wines at our best culinary establishments.

Our winery has an interesting family history. Owner/partner Guillermo Rodriguez and his friends used to meet regularly to drink and blend wine while playing dominos. They soon became known for these “remarkable” blends which latter inspired them to get serious about making their own wines.

Guillermo was captured by “the passion and spirit” of winemaking and started his first label, Chateau Domino, in the kitchen of his summer home in San Antonio de las Minas, Valle de Guadalupe. Over the years the label has evolved into, Macouzet and Vinisterra and is home to some of Mexico’s best wine.

In 2000 Guillermo purchased 50,000 certified French Merlot vines and planted them on his estate at San Antonio de las Minas. These “estate” grown wines are now producing some amazing wines that are capturing international attention from serious wine lovers.

As Guillermo became more focused with the process of creating premium wine he met a passionate Swiss enologist, Christoph Gartner, who was then working at Bodegas Santo Tomas winery. Both men were in agreement that Mexico could produce high quality wine.

After six years of friendship and in-depth conversations, Guillermo and Christoph formed a business partnership in 2002 with the goal of creating premium wines crafted from grapes grown in the region.

Today, Vinisterra winery has the ability to produce 7,000 cases of premium wine from their “estate” vineyards and from selection vines in the region.

The first “estate” vineyards were planted at their San Antonio de las Minas facility in 2002, followed in 2003 with the establishment of an additional fifteen acres near Valle de Santo Tomas.

Prior to the fruit production from their “estate” vineyards, Vinisterra purchased grapes from “selected” blocks of vineyards in the region and transported the grapes to San Antonio de las Minas.

The philosophy of Vinisterra is to: “promote the fullest expression of the grape, focus on the distinct characters of fruit from specific valleys, and to represent the uniqueness and high quality of wine produced in Baja California Norte.”

Swiss enologist Christoph Gartner is a deeply focused wine artisan with the abilities to create “world class” wine in Mexico. In addition, he supervises fifteen people in the field, manages the vineyards, handcrafts award-winning wine and monitors office administration.

The marketing and sales are maintained by David Rivera; Mariela Lopez is the office administrator; Veronica Penelope Santiago performs the guided tours and operates the wine tasting room.

Vinisterra offers three distinct levels of quality marc by 3 labels:

• Domino” represents white, rose and red table wines similar to the original blends created during the domino games.
• “Macouzet” showcases two premium wines, 100% Tempranillo and a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot of superior quality.
• “Cascabel” & “Pedregal” highlights the best level of quality from the winery. These wines have great characters and complex qualities that express the best of each varietal, the land, and the touch of the wine artisan.The current “Cascabel” & ”Pedregal” premium blends are: Tempranillo with Grenache, and Syrah with Mourvedre.

Located in Valle De Guadalupe, you take Route 3 towards Tecate and turn right towards San Antonio de Las Minas on the only paved road to that Colonia.  From there you will see signs to Vinisterra.  It is a beautiful weekend home that was converted into a winery. 

The information provided about is directly from their website at www.vinisterra.com.

Offices

Calle Sexta 984-3 Zona Centro
Ensenada, B.C. México
C.P. 22800
Phone: +52 (646) 178-3310 &
+52 (646) 178-33 50
Fax: +52 (646) 174-0181
contacto@vinisterra.com

 

Winery

Calle Miguel Lerdo de Tejada y
Riva Palacios y Vallarta # 466
Poblado de Villa de Juarez,
San Antonio de las Minas,
Ensenada B.C.
C.P. 22766

Casa de Doña Lupe is a wonderful little winery situated close to L.A. Cetto. It is on a back road in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe. To get to the winery you take a right off of Route 3 at KM 73.5. From here you take a pleasant ride down the dirt road past the grape fields of Vinos Sueños which will be present on your right. From here you will see signs for Casa de Doña Lupe. Follow them to the parking lot just past L.A. Cetto on your right side.

Walking in you will pass through the outdoor eating area where they serve homemade pizzas. I was unable to try the pizzas since I had already eaten at The Hacienda earlier that day. However I can say that she had a packed house of seemingly happy customers, and the pizzas looked and smelled delicious. From here you can enter into her country store.

Walking in you are overpowered by the wonderful smells of fresh cheese made from the local ranchers site, herbs, incense, honey, grapes, olives, marmalades, baked goods and salsas. The store is a great place to wander around and try out the many products listed that are awaiting you on a table in the back. The table had different spreads set up with bread to dip. There were all different types of marmalades which I had the joy of trying out. The weirdest one being a coconut and chocolate spread which was delightful and rich. There was also a goat cheese spread that was soft with the texture of whipped cream cheese. There were way too many products to list here unfortunately.

On the way out another product caught my eye. I love cooking with olive oil and have a tendency to always cook my garlic in the olive oil before adding other ingredients. Doña Lupe had her own olive oils for sale, and many of them had added ingredients. The one I purchased was olive oil with garlic and spices. I have since cooked with this olive oil 3-4 times a week. It makes all of my food taste incredible considering I am far from being a chef.

While in the store I had the honor of meeting Doña Lupe. She told me the story of how this winery was a dream of her husband who has since passed. That he was up in Washington sending money down to fund the process of converting the land into a now self sufficient winery. A winery that her family could be proud to own knowing that they had completed the husbands wishes. She also explained that this is a non pretentious winery that will always remain small scaled and that they have no intentions of growing their public market. All of the products that are made on site are organic. However they do not say on the label because she cannot guarantee the neighboring wineries are not using pesticides to protect their own crops.

After hearing her story and buying my products, she asked if we would like to taste the wines that they make on site. Normally there is a small fee for a tasting which I believe is about 5 dollars, however on this day she invited us to the treat. Her wine is much sweeter than most wines in Valle de Guadalupe. We were told that her grapes are very different from others, and are naturally sweeter which only occurs on her winery. Because of this I would recommend these wines as dessert wines. The one that I actually enjoyed because it was so different was honey wine or vino de miel. I found it interesting to have a red wine with a honey flavor to it. It was very smooth and something I would consider for an after dinner drink.

Please feel free to visit the website of Doña Lupe at www.donalupe.com. You can also email her for more information at info@donlupe.com. The phone number at the winery is (646) 155 2323 and the hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.