What do I need to know before moving to Lake Chapala?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Lake Chapala, they said...
"Since realtors are not regulated here in Mexico one should hire an attorney just to be on the safe side... We did and it was worth every peso... Cheap insurance. Do your due diligence on line and stay for a month or more... If one has not lived abroad and in similar locales there might be a bit of a culture shock... How I explain this in simple terms: 'If in the morning you have water for your shower.... It is a good day.' and 'If the water is hot... It is GREAT DAY!' Living here is an adventure... One needs to be flexible, have a sense of humor, and accept the fact that things here move at a different pace. The Mexican people are warm and friendly, the expats are willing to help get you settled, and the weather is outstanding... What is not to like?," wrote a member who made the move to Ajijic , Mexico.
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"Expatriates should learn at least basic Spanish before moving to Lake Chapala, as English is not widely spoken. Mexico has different immigration laws than other countries and expatriates should research the necessary documents required to live and work in the area. Climate can be a factor for relocation and Lake Chapala has semi-tropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. Before relocating to this area, expatriates should also research the cost of living, infrastructure, available healthcare and recreational activities in the area. Mexico also has community organizations specifically for expatriates which provide helpful information and regular activities," explained one expat living in Lake Chapala, Mexico.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Lake Chapala?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Lake Chapala?
- Will I be able to find a job in Lake Chapala?
- What is life like in Lake Chapala?
- What do expats in Lake Chapala appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Lake Chapala?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Lake Chapala accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Lake Chapala like?
- What are healthcare services like in Lake Chapala?
- What are medical services in Lake Chapala like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Lake Chapala?
- What are emergency services like in Lake Chapala?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Lake Chapala?
- How are local medical facilities in Lake Chapala?
- As a foreigner living in Lake Chapala, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before moving to Lake Chapala?
If you live in Lake Chapala, newcomers to Lake Chapala would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
