Legal & Immigration in Lake Chapala and Ajijic We know it can become confusing when trying to find out about certain legal and immigration maters before moving to a foreign country. This is why we have made it a little easier for you to understand certain basic legal and immigration procedures that you will undergo once you come to Mexico for a visit or even if you are planning retirement in the Lake...

How to get a driver’s license in Mexico There are so many details we have to adjust to when we make a move to another country, starting with language and law. But most of it is pretty familiar once we begin. For instance, Lakeside we have many signs and residents who are bilingual. We have specialists who help us with things we do not understand. Let’s address the issue of Drivers Licenses as an...

Sundays on the Ajijic Plaza are always fun. Many times there are various art and craft shows and events on the plaza. It is a great place to meet up with friends. There is always music, entertainment and lots of fun to be had. Canadian Couple Enjoying Ice Cream on the Ajijic Plaza The Ajijic Society of Arts and Crafts had a show this past Sunday. I love to see all the beautiful things and paintings...

Collecting Social Security or Canadian Pension in Lake Chapala If you already receive an American or Canadian pension, you probably receive it by direct deposit. This applies whether it is a private pension or government, generally Social Security or Canadian Pension/Quebec Pension. If you are presently receiving payment by mail, I urge you to set up direct deposit to your home bank prior to making a move...

Retirement & Cost of Living in Lake Chapala, Ajijic & Mexico in General Why do so many Canadians, Americans and even Europeans decide to spend their retirement in a foreign country? The cost of living of course. Mexico is on the top of the list. The Lake Chapala area is so one of the most attractive retirement communities in Mexico, due to its year round spring like weather and inexpensive living...

Hamacas is a small development down the street that runs next to the Hole in One restaurant in San Antonio Tlayacapan. It is a beautiful country road just a few blocks from the main highway. It feels like it is out in the country, yet it is close to town. 3 homes in Hamacas It is a very secure, gated community. Fifty two houses are going to be built there very soon. For now, there are six finished...

Developments & Gated Communities The Lakeside area offers a wide array of options when it comes to purchasing a home in different types of gated communities and developments. Typically they consist of Villas, Homes and Condos that have between 20 - 200 units. The majority of them have common areas and amenities which are shared by all the home owners, some include: pool, clubhouse, gym, tennis courts,...

The Lake Taco Restaurant Do you like Burritos? If so, this is the best burrito place in Chapala. I have friends who go to Lake Taco almost everyday. It is conveniently located, on the Libramiento, next to the car wash. The people working there are friendly. Food is delicious. Address is: Libramiento Chapala Ajijic #132, Interior 23. Phone number is: 331-230-6173. The hours are: Monday –...

Cafe Magana Restaurant UPDATE: THIS RESTAURANT HAS CLOSED FOR GOOD AND IS NO LONGER IN OPERATION I lived in Lake Chapala for four years and past it many times on the bus. I never bothered to stop and check it out until a friend raved about it to me one day as we drove by. He said that the food was delicious and they had a large book exchange. That was enough information for me to make a special trip to...

El Dorado is one of the best locations in the Lake Chapala area. It is only a twenty- five minute drive from Guadalajara. It is within a few minutes drive of Ajijic and Chapala.  Building on it started in 2007. It was built on the old driving range known as "Oso Dorado".  That is the origin of El Dorado as a name for this beautiful complex. It is on the Libramiento, within walking distance of the new...