The allure of Mexico: Puerto Vallarta is a top retirement destination

The Mexican beach city of Puerto Vallarta beat out locations in France, Italy, Panama and Portugal to become AARP's top retirement destination abroad. Factoring in its sunny climate, affordable real estate, low-cost lifestyle, expat community of 50,000 American retirees, and excellent access to the U.S., Puerto Vallarta was the undisputed first choice of the lifestyle publication. Aside from Puerto Vallarta, other common Mexican retirement destinations are the colonial cities of Guadalajara, Guanajuato, Merida, Morelia, Oaxaca, Puebla, Queretaro and San Miguel de Allende, as well as the beach towns of Acapulco, Colima, Cuernavaca, La Paz, Mazatlan and Manzanillo. Of the five million American retirees living abroad, nearly one million have chosen to trade in their hectic cities, frigid temperatures and high living costs for a more relaxed, warmer and inexpensive lifestyle in Mexico. While some retirees live in Mexico year-round, others come to Mexico to escape harsh winters back home. Although Mexico's optimal weather is a major factor in why many North Americans relocate, health care is also rising to the top of the list. According to a Mexican government estimate, healthcare costs in Mexico are nearly 70 percent lower than in the United States. Add to that the cutting-edge medical equipment and techniques used by major cities such as Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara, as well as the top-notch quality and accessibility of Mexico's hospitals, and you have a winning combination for retirees who find Canadian and American living too costly. Whatever the reason for relocation, Mexico has dozens of ideal destinations for every kind of retiree. From those that just want to spend their time relaxing by the beach, to those that want to explore Mexico's expansive colonial history, there is a city for just about everyone. Guadalajara The largest expatriate scene in Mexico can be found in Guadalajara, Chapala and Ajijic, whose retirement community has been established there for decades. It is estimated that over 400,000 year-round expatriates call Guadalajara and its nearby towns their home, while thousands more take up residency during the winter months. Chapala is a beautiful town lined with Victorian-style buildings. Although populated by retired Americans and Canadians much of the time, the town still retains its Mexican authenticity. A lager Canadian population lives in Ajijic, a relaxed small town with cobblestone streets. Aside from being Lake Chapala's most picturesque village, Ajijic also touts some excellent dining and shopping. The proximity to the large city of Guadalajara is an advantage for people living in Chapala and Ajijic, and many prefer the city itself. Parks, fountains, plazas and tree-lined boulevards are scattered throughout the home of many Mexican traditions and products, such as tequila, Mariachi music and charros (Mexican cowboys). San Miguel de Allende This fabled colonial town of artisans and writers was declared a national monument in 1926 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. It boasts colonial mansions, flower-filled patios, terraced cobblestone streets and some of the best dining and handicraft shopping in Mexico. Since the mid-90s, its popularity skyrocketed and is today one of the most sought-after expatriate communities to live in. Many plays, lectures, art classes and other activities are offered around the city, making this the perfect locale for those seeking hobbies that expand their horizons. Mazatlan Located on a long, flat stretch of the Pacific coast of Mexico, Mazatlan is Mexico's second largest coastal city and is considered to be the shrimp capital of the world. It is also coming into its own as a retirement destination. In general, real estate prices and living expenses are lower than in many other areas popular with North American retirees. The few Canadian and American expatriates who call Mazatlan home tend to spread out and integrate to some degree with the local population. In 1999, a beautiful assisted living facility, The Melville, opened in the historic center of Mazatlan. The Melville is aimed principally at U.S. and Canadian retirees in Mexico, the first of its kind to be specifically designed for this audience. Merida Named after the Spanish city of the same name, Merida is the capital and largest city of the Mexican state of Yucatan. This traditional city is a thriving cultural touch point featuring multiple museums, art galleries, restaurants and shopping centers. The splendor of Merida can be felt through its local mariachi bands, live jazz music and street performers, which add life and vigor to the colonial city. Merida is home to a growing number of expatriates due to the warm climate and the luxury living at affordable prices. Merida also houses the best health care facilities in the area, and even draws residents from other countries seeking modern, up-to-date and professional medical services. With several famous attractions in the surrounding areas and a number of excellent golf courses, the town is perfect for those looking for a romantic, old world atmosphere and plenty of relaxation. About Mexico Tourism The Mexico Tourism Board (MTB) brings together the resources of federal and state governments, municipalities and private companies to promote Mexico's tourism attractions and destinations internationally. Created in 1999, the MTB functions as an executive agency of Mexico's Tourism Secretariat, with autonomous management and the broad participation of the private sector. The MTB has offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Latin America. -Text and photo courtesy of The Mexico Tourism Board