Pros and Cons of Living in Lake Chapala

"I love that Mexicans, as a rule, put family before anything....work, themselves, money. And the fact that they are so accepting of foreigners, unlike the feelings in the United States," explained one expat.

"Expatriates living in Lake Chapala appreciate the friendly and welcoming attitude of the locals. They also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, mild climate, and delicious Mexican cuisine. Additionally, expats enjoy the slower pace of life in Lake Chapala, as well as the low cost of living. Furthermore, expats are able to take advantage of the diverse natural surroundings, with options such as hiking, biking and boating in close proximity. The area also offers a plethora of cultural activities, such as art galleries, performance venues, and festivals. Every day, expats are able to meet new people and learn about a different culture, making their experience in Lake Chapala one of a kind," said one person in Lake Chapala.

"Knowing that you are never really going to be part of it....that you'll always be an outsider to some extent," said one person in Lake Chapala.

"Expats in Lake Chapala face challenges when it comes to communication. Speakers of English and other languages often struggle to grasp the nuances of Spanish, although many locals will try to accommodate English-speaking mandarins. Additionally, interacting with locals on an everyday basis for simple tasks such as banking, purchasing goods and services, and navigating among the bureaucracy of the local government, can be overwhelming for foreigners. Understanding the concept of time, Spanish being the cultural and national language, and aligning oneself with Mexican customs and traditions can all be difficult for expats. Finally, despite the abundance and wide acceptance of American products and culture, expats may still experience some cultural shock as they adjust to Mexican traditions and norms," remarked one expat in Lake Chapala.