The shores of Lake Chapala is home to roughly 4000 full time Norte Americanos, and about 35,000 part timers who visit part of the year. Lake Chapala is home to so much to do that you could never be bored, or unoccupied. There are lots of fiestas, clubs, and expat groups to participate in. Here are 7 things everyone should know about Lake Chapala.
photo credit: Jaec
1. The Climate
Probably the principal attraction to Lake Chapala is its semitropical climate, rated among the best in the world. With an average temperature of 75° Fahrenheit, the sun shines almost every day. Even when the cooling rains come (June to September), it almost always rains during the late-night or pre-dawn hours, with the sunshine returning during the day, leaving the humidity just high enough to keep the brightly colored flowers blooming and turn the surrounding mountains a lush tropical green.
2. The Food
One amazing wonder in the Lake Chapala area is the incredible abundance of excellent restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisine. You will be surprised by the variety and pleasantly surprised when you get your bill at the end of the afternoon. Unlike the north of the border, your bill will not appear automatically – you must ask for it. It is inappropriate to present your bill when you have not requested. The table is yours for as long as you want. Ahh the joys of Mexican dining.
3. Hospitality
Mexican hospitality shines brightly at Lake Chapala. The saying Mi Casa es Su Casa is even more lived out in the Lake Chapala region.
4. The Cost of Living
A family of two can live rather comfortably at Lake Chapala. For $1500 dollars a month you can live very well. The same lifestyle would cost you around $5,000 dollars a month (or more) in Southern California.
5. The Cost of Real Estate
No heating and no air-conditioning to worry about. Low Property Taxes are often less than $100 per year on a $200,000 home. That’s much lower than most place I’ve lived stateside.
6. The Cost of Health Care
Excellent, caring medical at a fraction of the cost. As well as many prescriptions cost less and are sold over-the-counter at any local Mexico pharmacy. A good number of doctors in the area speak English and cater towards the many American’s and Canadians who call Lake Chapala home.
7. The Water
The cliche about Mexico is that tourist shouldn’t drink the water. Even the locals don’t drink the water. The water table often is very close to the surface, and is contaminated by garbage dumps and runoff. Even in the poorest sections, the corner store sells huge bottles of purified water and kids drag carts filled with bottles to sell. You can buy bottled water anywhere, but when you buy water, make sure it is factory sealed to guarantee it is safe to drink.
