mazmessenger.com
Town Hall Meeting
Monday April 27, 2015
Playa Mazatlan at 12:00
(Salon Bugambilia)
Please plan to join us at 12:00 Monday, April 27th at Playa Mazatlan.
Showing posts with label foreign residents. Show all posts
Showing posts with label foreign residents. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Notice of US Consulate Town Hall Meeting
by Maureen
Dietrich
mazmessenger.com
U.S. Consulate General Hermosillo would like to invite you to a Town Hall
Meeting on Monday, April 27th. Consul General Karen Ogle is looking forward to
meeting and talking with the Mazatlan community. She will give a brief overview
of U.S./Mexican relations. Guests include: Immigration Delegate, Oscar Tirado
and Director of Civil Protection, Roberto Osuna, who will provide some
information and be available for any questions. Other topics will include
American citizen services in the district. This will be an open discussion, and
we would welcome your participation and questions.
Please plan to join us at 12:00 Monday, April 27th at Playa Mazatlan.
mazmessenger.com
Please plan to join us at 12:00 Monday, April 27th at Playa Mazatlan.
Monday, March 16, 2015
Rotarians embark on 14th Highway to Mexico trip
dailyheraldtribune.com
A group of Rotarians started 5,000-kilometer trip to Mazatlan, Mexico on Friday.
Rotarians from the Grande Prairie, Swan City, Rotary after Five and Edson clubs packed up three fire trucks, two ambulances, a school bus and a handi-bus and various equipment early Friday morning and started the long drive.
“They drove one school bus down to Mazatlan (14 years ago) and it sort of took off from there,” said Swan City Rotary Club’s Felix Seiler, one of the co-ordinators of the project.
“As of last year, we have more than 60 vehicles that we’ve driven down there and this year, we’re taking seven.”
Valleyview donated one of the fire trucks and the tanker truck came from the M.D. of Opportunity, in central northern Alberta. Seiler said the Rotary Club of Edson provided one of the ambulances and the other vehicles were purchased at auctions.
The local clubs collaborate with Rotary clubs in Mazatlan to determine which communities will receive what vehicles.
“There’s a lot of need so there’s sort of a waiting list as well and then they decide on where everything is going to go,” he said.
This year’s trip will be Seiler’s fifth. He said seeing the reaction of the local people when they arrive is one of the best moments.
“They make a big deal out of this, right,” he said. “There’s tones of people watching and there’s a ceremony… I mean the biggest thing is going back and understanding that you’ve made a lot of friends down there and… everywhere you go, you see vehicles that have Grande Prairie logos on it and it’s just very rewarding… you see first-hand where your donations or where your charity is going.”
After the early Friday morning departure, Seiler said he expects the convoy to arrive in Mazatlan late the following Friday. Once in Mexico, the plan is to stay a week, delivering vehicles to designated communities before making the trip back north.
One of the trucks is destined for Acatic to help start up a volunteer fire brigade and the remaining vehicles will go to Culiacan, Concordia, El Rosario and Mazatlan.
The Rotary club would like to thank the municipalities, businesses and individuals who contributed vehicles, equipment and donations to the project.
Fire trucks,
ambulances and a school bus, driven by local Rotarians, left Grande
Prairie early Friday, as part of the Highway to Mexico project.
Rotarians departing on the trip were: Greg Podmore, from left, Drew
Lamont, Felix Seiler, Brent Bibby, Kelly Montgomery, Rick Conrad, Lola
Wright, Percy Britton, Shirly Norton, Sandra Impey and Frank Wright.
Missing was Karen Scribner. Jocelyn Turner/Daily Herald-Tribune
The 14th annual delivery of vehicles to communities in need left the Swan City before sunrise on Friday.
A group of Rotarians started 5,000-kilometer trip to Mazatlan, Mexico on Friday.
Rotarians from the Grande Prairie, Swan City, Rotary after Five and Edson clubs packed up three fire trucks, two ambulances, a school bus and a handi-bus and various equipment early Friday morning and started the long drive.
“They drove one school bus down to Mazatlan (14 years ago) and it sort of took off from there,” said Swan City Rotary Club’s Felix Seiler, one of the co-ordinators of the project.
“As of last year, we have more than 60 vehicles that we’ve driven down there and this year, we’re taking seven.”
Valleyview donated one of the fire trucks and the tanker truck came from the M.D. of Opportunity, in central northern Alberta. Seiler said the Rotary Club of Edson provided one of the ambulances and the other vehicles were purchased at auctions.
The local clubs collaborate with Rotary clubs in Mazatlan to determine which communities will receive what vehicles.
“There’s a lot of need so there’s sort of a waiting list as well and then they decide on where everything is going to go,” he said.
This year’s trip will be Seiler’s fifth. He said seeing the reaction of the local people when they arrive is one of the best moments.
“They make a big deal out of this, right,” he said. “There’s tones of people watching and there’s a ceremony… I mean the biggest thing is going back and understanding that you’ve made a lot of friends down there and… everywhere you go, you see vehicles that have Grande Prairie logos on it and it’s just very rewarding… you see first-hand where your donations or where your charity is going.”
After the early Friday morning departure, Seiler said he expects the convoy to arrive in Mazatlan late the following Friday. Once in Mexico, the plan is to stay a week, delivering vehicles to designated communities before making the trip back north.
One of the trucks is destined for Acatic to help start up a volunteer fire brigade and the remaining vehicles will go to Culiacan, Concordia, El Rosario and Mazatlan.
The Rotary club would like to thank the municipalities, businesses and individuals who contributed vehicles, equipment and donations to the project.
Friday, March 6, 2015
March In Mazatlan: From Surfing To Championship Golf, The Destination Goes Primetime
prnewswire.com
Mazatlan International Week, which celebrates Mazatlan's international community, is March 16-22, 2015. The week includes activities such as a beachside The Golden Zone Street Party, the GAP Exhibition which is a free event featuring six international artists, including Lorna Crane, (Australia), Joan Stennick (San Francisco), Carl Heyward (San Francisco), Chaewon Laura Oh (South Korea), Vered Gerztenkorn (Israel), Akiko Suziki (Japan). Known for its cultural attractions, Mazatlan is the only coastal vacation location in Mexico to include an opera house. http://gomazatlan.com/en/events/mazatlan-international-week
The inaugural Mazatlan Surf Open is March 20-22, 2015 at Playa Brujas Beach, which is known for its favorable surfing conditions and delicious local fare. The Mazatlan Surf Open is a destination-owned surfing event and will include live music concerts, contests, and a prize pool for contestants.
The Mazatlan Open is yet again a PGA TOUR Latinoamerica tournament stop. The tournament is Wednesday, March 25 – Sunday, March 29, 2015 at the Estrella del Mar Golf and Beach Resort. Its 18-hole championship golf course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and is among the best golf courses in Mexico with both exceptional play and scenery. The purse levels are rising to $175,000 per PGA TOUR Latinoamerica.
MAZATLAN, Mexico, March 6, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazatlan, Mexico's
"Colonial City on the Beach," will host a series of events this March
to attract international travelers who seek adventure, culture, and
paradise. Mazatlan, known as the Pearl of the Pacific,
is a year-round beach destination with a Colonial District that has
over 400 years of history. This March, the destination has a calendar of
events that includes Mazatlan's International Week, Surf Open, and the Mazatlan Open as part of the PGA TOUR Latinoamerica.
Mazatlan International Week
Mazatlan International Week, which celebrates Mazatlan's international community, is March 16-22, 2015. The week includes activities such as a beachside The Golden Zone Street Party, the GAP Exhibition which is a free event featuring six international artists, including Lorna Crane, (Australia), Joan Stennick (San Francisco), Carl Heyward (San Francisco), Chaewon Laura Oh (South Korea), Vered Gerztenkorn (Israel), Akiko Suziki (Japan). Known for its cultural attractions, Mazatlan is the only coastal vacation location in Mexico to include an opera house. http://gomazatlan.com/en/events/mazatlan-international-week
Mazatlan Surf Open
The inaugural Mazatlan Surf Open is March 20-22, 2015 at Playa Brujas Beach, which is known for its favorable surfing conditions and delicious local fare. The Mazatlan Surf Open is a destination-owned surfing event and will include live music concerts, contests, and a prize pool for contestants.
Mazatlan Open
The Mazatlan Open is yet again a PGA TOUR Latinoamerica tournament stop. The tournament is Wednesday, March 25 – Sunday, March 29, 2015 at the Estrella del Mar Golf and Beach Resort. Its 18-hole championship golf course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and is among the best golf courses in Mexico with both exceptional play and scenery. The purse levels are rising to $175,000 per PGA TOUR Latinoamerica.
Friday, February 6, 2015
No matter what kind of Lifestyle you are looking for, you’ll find it in Mexico
theyucatantimes.com
Reports are that approximately one million Americans live in Mexico. While it’s hard to verify that number, it’s not hard to imagine that it’s true. Some are working, of course, for U.S., Mexican, or other foreign corporations. You’ll find them in cities like Mexico City, Queretaro, and Monterrey.
And some live in Mexico just part-time…spending winter months in vacation homes where the weather is always warm and thecervezas are always cold.
Many Americans in Mexico, however, have moved there to enjoy their retirement years. They live in Mexico full-time and enjoy better weather, a more relaxed lifestyle, and a host of other benefits—including affordable top-quality health care and a much lower overall cost of living.
Several locations in Mexico stand out, of course, as retirement destinations for foreign expats. Some of the most popular are:
Lake Chapala, Jalisco: In the little towns along the north shore of Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, you’ll find the largest community of U.S. retirees outside the U.S. This lakeside area in the country’s central highlands, just 45 minutes south of Guadalajara, is already home to about 10,000 full-time expatriates from the U.S. and Canada (and nearly twice that many during winter months). The towns on the lake—particularly those along the north shore—are comfortable enclaves with cobblestone streets, Spanish-colonial architecture, and some of the world’s best weather. The average year-round temperature is a spring-like 68° F, and a tight-knit expatriate community provides all manner of comfortable amenities and support to retirees—from garden restaurants, to dog-training services, to bridge clubs and yoga classes.
San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato: With its high-towered church and its cobbled streets, tidy shops selling carefully embroidered linens and hand-painted plates homes that belong in the pages of Architectural Digest, and lush courtyard gardens in bloom year-round, this city is like something out of a children’s fairytale book. San Miguel has other benefits, too—proximity to the U.S., an excellent climate, an affordable cost of living, an established expatriate community, local golf courses, and the kind of shopping (for everything from food to office supplies) that you’re used to back home.
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco: When Liz Taylor and Richard Burton famously came here in the early 1960s, Puerto Vallarta wasn’t much more than a sleepy fishing village. A place where misty tropical mountains wrap arms around the crescent moon-shaped Banderas Bay.
Today, it is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, with an international airport, pro-tourney golf courses, designer shopping, world-class restaurants and beautiful people from around the world. Vallarta’s expat community is vibrant, too…you’ll find many activities to keep you busy, from outdoor activities to art galleries and charitable events to volunteer options and more.
Baja California Sur. The southern half of the long Baja Peninsula is a nature wonderland: a dry, sparsely-populated desert terrain blessed with two spectacular coasts: the Pacific to the west and the fertile Sea of Cortez, which separates it from mainland Mexico, to the east. Three easy-going destinations favored by expats are Todos Santos, Loreto, and La Paz. Artsy Todos Santos, on the Pacific side of the Peninsula, has a well-established little expat community. Loreto, on the Sea of Cortez, is the gateway to the UNESCO-designated and –protected marine park just offshore. With world-class kayaking, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and dolphin- and whale-watching available, Loreto attracts nature- and sports-lovers. Laid-back La Paz, four hours south of Loreto on the Sea of Cortez, is the capital of Baja California Sur and a low-key favorite that feels much like Southern California 60 or 70 years ago.
Mazatlán, Sinaloa: One of Mexico’s oldest and most famous vacation and retirement destinations, Mazatlan is built on the reputation of the world-class deep-sea fishing to be found along the coast, and the 16 miles of beaches running north from town. Other fancier Mexican beach resorts may have stolen a bit of its thunder, but make no mistake…Mazatlan still has what it takes to charm the visitor’s heart and pique the interest of the potential part- or full-time resident. It’s a wonderful blend of resort beach town with a distinctly Mexican flavor…something the mega resorts have largely lost. And reasonably priced real estate is still available.
Huatulco, Oaxaca: A resort community planned by Fonatur, the Mexican government’s national trust fund for tourism development, Huatulco is spacious, green, and well-maintained. You’ll find fabulous homes tucked away on high cliffs overlooking the picture-perfect bays. (There are nine gorgeous secluded bays to choose from here.) And even though Huatulco is a resort destination, it doesn’t feel like one. It’s quiet, laid-back and waiting to be discovered…the “Cinderella” of Mexico’s Pacific resort towns.
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca: Puerto Escondido is a little fishing village and a world-class surf zone—a longstanding favorite with surfers worldwide. The downtown area is small, colorful, and crowded, and the front beach is like a picture postcard, truly gorgeous. This is still a fishing village at heart, and its front beach is one of the cleanest and prettiest we’ve seen on any coast. You can still buy a whole, fresh tuna or dorado from fishermen’s children on the main street if you get there before 10 a.m. But the little town is growing, so get there quickly while you can still find the bargains.
Merida, Yucatán: Sidewalk cafés, tree-lined streets, and fresh paint…Yucatan’s best-kept secret is cosmopolitan Mérida. Just a half-hour from the Gulf-coast beaches, this city of 970,000 is a center of commerce and home to universities, hospitals, friendly locals, and beautiful colonial homes that would cost you twice as much in central Mexico’s discovered enclaves. The expatriate community maintains a well-equipped English-language library and hosts monthly get-togethers. The kinds of goods and services you’d expect to find in a comparably-sized city back home are available here, too–from Office Depot to Sam’s Club, Costco, Sears, all the familiar fast-food chains, and several high-end shopping malls.
The Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo: The stretch of Caribbean coastline that runs from Cancún to Tulum is known as the Riviera Maya. Arguably, this area is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. There are several intriguing towns along this coast, including Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum. Playa del Carmen is one of the fastest-growing cities in Mexico. Cruise ships dock here regularly and the beachfront is wall-to-wall hotels and restaurants. Fifth Avenue is just a block or so off the beach. This pedestrian walkway is flanked by sidewalk restaurants and small boutiques selling a myriad of exotic items. This is a fun place with a relaxed, bohemian ambience. If Playa is too “busy” for you, check out laid-back Tulum, an up-and-coming destination that attracts fashionistas and movers-and-shakers while still paying homage to its backpacker roots. And Tulum’s beach regularly figures among the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.
So be assured…no matter what kind of lifestyle or climate you are looking for, you’ll find it in Mexico.
Source: http://internationalliving.com/countries/mexico/one-million/
Reports are that approximately one million Americans live in Mexico. While it’s hard to verify that number, it’s not hard to imagine that it’s true. Some are working, of course, for U.S., Mexican, or other foreign corporations. You’ll find them in cities like Mexico City, Queretaro, and Monterrey.
And some live in Mexico just part-time…spending winter months in vacation homes where the weather is always warm and thecervezas are always cold.
Many Americans in Mexico, however, have moved there to enjoy their retirement years. They live in Mexico full-time and enjoy better weather, a more relaxed lifestyle, and a host of other benefits—including affordable top-quality health care and a much lower overall cost of living.
The most popular retirement destinations for Americans in Mexico
First, let’s get something straight. People from around the globe are retiring to Mexico… and not just folks from the U.S. It just happens to be a close destination for those from the U.S. and Canada. From Canada or the U.S. you can easily drive to Mexico.Several locations in Mexico stand out, of course, as retirement destinations for foreign expats. Some of the most popular are:
Lake Chapala, Jalisco: In the little towns along the north shore of Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, you’ll find the largest community of U.S. retirees outside the U.S. This lakeside area in the country’s central highlands, just 45 minutes south of Guadalajara, is already home to about 10,000 full-time expatriates from the U.S. and Canada (and nearly twice that many during winter months). The towns on the lake—particularly those along the north shore—are comfortable enclaves with cobblestone streets, Spanish-colonial architecture, and some of the world’s best weather. The average year-round temperature is a spring-like 68° F, and a tight-knit expatriate community provides all manner of comfortable amenities and support to retirees—from garden restaurants, to dog-training services, to bridge clubs and yoga classes.
Lake Chapala Sunset (Photo: Tommy Farnsworth)
San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato: With its high-towered church and its cobbled streets, tidy shops selling carefully embroidered linens and hand-painted plates homes that belong in the pages of Architectural Digest, and lush courtyard gardens in bloom year-round, this city is like something out of a children’s fairytale book. San Miguel has other benefits, too—proximity to the U.S., an excellent climate, an affordable cost of living, an established expatriate community, local golf courses, and the kind of shopping (for everything from food to office supplies) that you’re used to back home.
San Miguel de Allende Cathedral (Photo: Google)
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco: When Liz Taylor and Richard Burton famously came here in the early 1960s, Puerto Vallarta wasn’t much more than a sleepy fishing village. A place where misty tropical mountains wrap arms around the crescent moon-shaped Banderas Bay.
Today, it is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, with an international airport, pro-tourney golf courses, designer shopping, world-class restaurants and beautiful people from around the world. Vallarta’s expat community is vibrant, too…you’ll find many activities to keep you busy, from outdoor activities to art galleries and charitable events to volunteer options and more.
Puerto Vallarta (Photo: Google)
Baja California Sur. The southern half of the long Baja Peninsula is a nature wonderland: a dry, sparsely-populated desert terrain blessed with two spectacular coasts: the Pacific to the west and the fertile Sea of Cortez, which separates it from mainland Mexico, to the east. Three easy-going destinations favored by expats are Todos Santos, Loreto, and La Paz. Artsy Todos Santos, on the Pacific side of the Peninsula, has a well-established little expat community. Loreto, on the Sea of Cortez, is the gateway to the UNESCO-designated and –protected marine park just offshore. With world-class kayaking, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and dolphin- and whale-watching available, Loreto attracts nature- and sports-lovers. Laid-back La Paz, four hours south of Loreto on the Sea of Cortez, is the capital of Baja California Sur and a low-key favorite that feels much like Southern California 60 or 70 years ago.
Baja California Sur (Photo: Google)
Mazatlán, Sinaloa: One of Mexico’s oldest and most famous vacation and retirement destinations, Mazatlan is built on the reputation of the world-class deep-sea fishing to be found along the coast, and the 16 miles of beaches running north from town. Other fancier Mexican beach resorts may have stolen a bit of its thunder, but make no mistake…Mazatlan still has what it takes to charm the visitor’s heart and pique the interest of the potential part- or full-time resident. It’s a wonderful blend of resort beach town with a distinctly Mexican flavor…something the mega resorts have largely lost. And reasonably priced real estate is still available.
Mazatlán, Sinaloa (Photo: Google)
Huatulco, Oaxaca: A resort community planned by Fonatur, the Mexican government’s national trust fund for tourism development, Huatulco is spacious, green, and well-maintained. You’ll find fabulous homes tucked away on high cliffs overlooking the picture-perfect bays. (There are nine gorgeous secluded bays to choose from here.) And even though Huatulco is a resort destination, it doesn’t feel like one. It’s quiet, laid-back and waiting to be discovered…the “Cinderella” of Mexico’s Pacific resort towns.
Huatulco, Oaxaca (Photo: Visanat)
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca: Puerto Escondido is a little fishing village and a world-class surf zone—a longstanding favorite with surfers worldwide. The downtown area is small, colorful, and crowded, and the front beach is like a picture postcard, truly gorgeous. This is still a fishing village at heart, and its front beach is one of the cleanest and prettiest we’ve seen on any coast. You can still buy a whole, fresh tuna or dorado from fishermen’s children on the main street if you get there before 10 a.m. But the little town is growing, so get there quickly while you can still find the bargains.
Surfing lessons in Puerto Escondido (Photo: www.costadeoaxaca.com)
Merida, Yucatán: Sidewalk cafés, tree-lined streets, and fresh paint…Yucatan’s best-kept secret is cosmopolitan Mérida. Just a half-hour from the Gulf-coast beaches, this city of 970,000 is a center of commerce and home to universities, hospitals, friendly locals, and beautiful colonial homes that would cost you twice as much in central Mexico’s discovered enclaves. The expatriate community maintains a well-equipped English-language library and hosts monthly get-togethers. The kinds of goods and services you’d expect to find in a comparably-sized city back home are available here, too–from Office Depot to Sam’s Club, Costco, Sears, all the familiar fast-food chains, and several high-end shopping malls.
Downtown Mérida, Yucatán
The Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo: The stretch of Caribbean coastline that runs from Cancún to Tulum is known as the Riviera Maya. Arguably, this area is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. There are several intriguing towns along this coast, including Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum. Playa del Carmen is one of the fastest-growing cities in Mexico. Cruise ships dock here regularly and the beachfront is wall-to-wall hotels and restaurants. Fifth Avenue is just a block or so off the beach. This pedestrian walkway is flanked by sidewalk restaurants and small boutiques selling a myriad of exotic items. This is a fun place with a relaxed, bohemian ambience. If Playa is too “busy” for you, check out laid-back Tulum, an up-and-coming destination that attracts fashionistas and movers-and-shakers while still paying homage to its backpacker roots. And Tulum’s beach regularly figures among the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.
Riviera Maya Golf Club
Which one is for you?
There are many other locations in Mexico, of course, where you will find U.S., Canadian, and other foreign residents–from small towns like Pozos de Mineral in the central highlands to large cities like Cuernavaca, near Mexico City, and the Pacific Coast resorts of Manzanillo and Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo.So be assured…no matter what kind of lifestyle or climate you are looking for, you’ll find it in Mexico.
Source: http://internationalliving.com/countries/mexico/one-million/
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Have you heard of the INAPAM Discount Card for Senior Citizens?
yucatantimes.com
One of the most popular programs that senior citizens enroll for in Mexico is the INAPAM (Instituto Nacional para las Personas Adultas Mayores) discount card. This is offered to all Mexicans and foreign residents who are 60 years of age or older and enables them to enjoy very worthwhile discounts on a whole range of goods and services including food, medicines, transport, clothing, as well as recreation and leisure activities.
The program recognizes that retired people living on fixed incomes need financial support to help them keep their costs under control. More and more firms and businesses are actively advertising the fact that they offer discounts to INAPAM card holders, and even those who don’t may well introduce a discount on goods and services you buy if you present your card to them. Many organizations are very pleased to give seniors a discount, and the card is a means to prove your residency and qualification status.
Once enrolled, you receive a plastic card that, when presented at thousands of stores, businesses and government service agencies across Mexico, offers you significant discounts of between 10% and 50% on goods and services you buy; and an increasing number of municipalities are also offering discounts on property taxes and water bills.
Here are some examples of the services that offer discounts:
Healthcare: Many pharmacies give discounts on medications (medicines are already much less expensive in Mexico than the US, and these discounts are in addition to the lower prices Americans enjoy here), and some dentists and doctors and other medical specialists will also give seniors a discount
Public Transportation: Bus companies, airlines, and taxi firms offer discounts on fares
Food and Groceries: Local food stores, convenience stores, and specialist food emporiums offer discounts on your grocery shopping, saving you more money on your basic living costs
Leisure: Many hotels and travel agencies in Mexico offer discounts to senior citizens who present the card; also recreation parks (like Six Flags Mexico). If you plan a party, many of the party rooms (salon de fiestas) offer a discount on rentals to seniors
Eating Out: Many cafes and diners, including the national chains Vips and Toks, offer discounts to INAPAM card holders
Culture: Many museums, archaeology parks, art galleries, and bookstores offer discounts to card holders
Miscellany: A whole raft of businesses offer seniors a discount when they present their card, for example, legal firms, art & craft stores, car service and repair centers, computer sales and repair stores, clothing and apparel stores, accountants, construction firms, hardware stores, florists, printers, locksmiths, jewellery stores, beauty salons, DIY centers, stationers, plumbers, electricians, dry cleaners, veterinary services, etc.
Discount on Property Taxes and Water Bills: Increasing numbers of municipalities are offering seniors a discount on their annual property taxes (Predial) and their water bills. Discounts, where offered, vary by municipality.
The card is available to all seniors who are 60 years or older. It’s simple and free to apply for the card.
You will need to present some official identification, like a passport or driver’s license, your birth certificate and, as a foreigner, you will also need to present your old FM3/FM2 or your new Temporary or Permanent Residency permit. You will also be asked for a utility bill or some other document that shows your current address in Mexico.
You take these documents (as well as 2 photocopies of each) along with three passport-sized photographs of yourself to your local government office dealing with INAPAM applications (check locally where you live) and, when the application is completed, you will be presented with a card that you can use to obtain the discounts. The government staffs a helpline that is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays, to answer questions you may have, and the call is free from inside Mexico: 01 800 007 3705.
You can find additional information online about the application process here. The page is in Spanish, and you can use the Google page translation feature if you need to.
Basic living costs in Mexico are already lower than those in the US, Canada and Europe. With the INAPAM card, seniors can enjoy additional discounts, and thus help to make their fixed incomes stretch even further in retirement.
Source: http://www.mexperience.com/
One of the most popular programs that senior citizens enroll for in Mexico is the INAPAM (Instituto Nacional para las Personas Adultas Mayores) discount card. This is offered to all Mexicans and foreign residents who are 60 years of age or older and enables them to enjoy very worthwhile discounts on a whole range of goods and services including food, medicines, transport, clothing, as well as recreation and leisure activities.
The program recognizes that retired people living on fixed incomes need financial support to help them keep their costs under control. More and more firms and businesses are actively advertising the fact that they offer discounts to INAPAM card holders, and even those who don’t may well introduce a discount on goods and services you buy if you present your card to them. Many organizations are very pleased to give seniors a discount, and the card is a means to prove your residency and qualification status.
Once enrolled, you receive a plastic card that, when presented at thousands of stores, businesses and government service agencies across Mexico, offers you significant discounts of between 10% and 50% on goods and services you buy; and an increasing number of municipalities are also offering discounts on property taxes and water bills.
Here are some examples of the services that offer discounts:
Healthcare: Many pharmacies give discounts on medications (medicines are already much less expensive in Mexico than the US, and these discounts are in addition to the lower prices Americans enjoy here), and some dentists and doctors and other medical specialists will also give seniors a discount
Public Transportation: Bus companies, airlines, and taxi firms offer discounts on fares
Food and Groceries: Local food stores, convenience stores, and specialist food emporiums offer discounts on your grocery shopping, saving you more money on your basic living costs
Leisure: Many hotels and travel agencies in Mexico offer discounts to senior citizens who present the card; also recreation parks (like Six Flags Mexico). If you plan a party, many of the party rooms (salon de fiestas) offer a discount on rentals to seniors
Eating Out: Many cafes and diners, including the national chains Vips and Toks, offer discounts to INAPAM card holders
Culture: Many museums, archaeology parks, art galleries, and bookstores offer discounts to card holders
Miscellany: A whole raft of businesses offer seniors a discount when they present their card, for example, legal firms, art & craft stores, car service and repair centers, computer sales and repair stores, clothing and apparel stores, accountants, construction firms, hardware stores, florists, printers, locksmiths, jewellery stores, beauty salons, DIY centers, stationers, plumbers, electricians, dry cleaners, veterinary services, etc.
Discount on Property Taxes and Water Bills: Increasing numbers of municipalities are offering seniors a discount on their annual property taxes (Predial) and their water bills. Discounts, where offered, vary by municipality.
INAPAM Discount Card for Senior Citizens
The card is available to all seniors who are 60 years or older. It’s simple and free to apply for the card.
You will need to present some official identification, like a passport or driver’s license, your birth certificate and, as a foreigner, you will also need to present your old FM3/FM2 or your new Temporary or Permanent Residency permit. You will also be asked for a utility bill or some other document that shows your current address in Mexico.
You take these documents (as well as 2 photocopies of each) along with three passport-sized photographs of yourself to your local government office dealing with INAPAM applications (check locally where you live) and, when the application is completed, you will be presented with a card that you can use to obtain the discounts. The government staffs a helpline that is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays, to answer questions you may have, and the call is free from inside Mexico: 01 800 007 3705.
You can find additional information online about the application process here. The page is in Spanish, and you can use the Google page translation feature if you need to.
Basic living costs in Mexico are already lower than those in the US, Canada and Europe. With the INAPAM card, seniors can enjoy additional discounts, and thus help to make their fixed incomes stretch even further in retirement.
Source: http://www.mexperience.com/
Monday, January 5, 2015
Mexico among the Top 3 countries for Retirement
theyucatantimes.com
With spiraling costs compelling more and more North Americans to retire overseas, retiring abroad has never been more attractive. But finding the right location among the myriad options available can be daunting.
That’s what our Annual Global Retirement Index does. Using input from our team of correspondents on the ground all over the world, we combine real-world insights about climate, health care, cost of living, and much more to draw up a comprehensive list of the best bang-for-your buck retirement destinations on the planet.
Keep in mind that, even though only 25 countries feature on our list, all of them are worth your attention. We selected them from among all the countries in the world for their qualities as retirement hot-spots, so even the lowest-ranked nation on our index is still very much an option worth considering.
Take into account, too, that ultimately no list or formula can automatically deliver the best destination for you. Only you can decide that. Only you can assess your personal preferences, needs, budget, and desires, and look at the options available to see which nation best suits your needs.
Are you an urbanite or do you prefer the wide-open spaces? Would you prefer a tropical climate with year-round sun or more temperate weather that reminds you of home? Would you rather live by the sea or on a mountainside? Sample the exotic delights of Asia or explore the rich cultural heritage of Latin America? Only you can make these calls. In assembling this index, we aim to deliver an in-depth guide to the best countries available to you today. It’s been compiled using the solid judgment and on-the-ground intelligence of our correspondents around the world. All of them are expats who have become experts on their adopted countries. Through their insight, we hope to give you an indication of the relative strengths and weaknesses of each locale and a flavor of the life that could await you in each. That way you can focus your own search in a well-informed way.
We’re constantly looking to improve and refine our annual Retirement Index. On top of having access to a larger network of correspondents than ever before, this year we required more (and more detailed) input from the field to make this year’s results the most comprehensive to date. As a result, for instance, Vietnam is included this year for the first time, in recognition of the opportunities we’ve uncovered there for North American expats within the last year.
You can see the full table of results below, but here for your inspection are details of the best in each region…
South America
Ecuador—The World’s Number 1 Retirement Haven
From the quaint town of Cotacachi to the vibrant capital, Quito, from Salinas by the sea to the peaks of the Andes, Ecuador’s diversity is a key part of the massive appeal that sees it regain the coveted top spot on this year’s retirement index.
Although prices have risen slightly in recent years, Ecuador’s real estate is still the best value you’ll find anywhere.
This is bolstered by the generous array of benefits the government has afforded to retirees. Over-65s get discounts on flights originating in Ecuador, as well as up to 50% off entry to movies and sporting events. Discounts are also available on public transport (50%) and utilities, with the option of a free landline if you purchase a property.
And the cost of living is low. “You can get a lot more here for your dollar than you could in the U.S. or Canada,” says IL Ecuador Highlands Correspondent Wendy DeChambeau. “A doctor’s visit will set you back around $10, while a main course in a restaurant can be had for as little as $2.50. The bus trip from Cotacachi to Otavalo will cost you 25 cents. For big-ticket items like real estate, you can get a lot more for your dollar here than in the U.S. A couple can live well here on $1,400 a month, including rent.”
You’ll find world-class medical facilities in big cities throughout the country, and you can catch direct flights to and from the States in Quito and Guayaquil. Good Internet is more readily available than ever. Public transportation is so efficient that many expats report not having to even buy a car. And with Ecuador having one of the most robust economies on the continent—its Gross Domestic Product has grown an average of 4.54% a year since 2000—it is likely that this infrastructure is only going to improve over the coming years.
When it comes to entertainment, Ecuador offers a diverse range of options. Biking, fishing, zip-lining, hiking, and rock-climbing are all popular and readily available. The country’s location affords it access to a staggering variety of environments, from the vast Pacific Ocean (including the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s most important ecological sites) and the Amazon to the mighty peaks of the Andes. This diversity ensures you’re guaranteed to find a climate that suits you down to the ground.The steadily growing expat population makes it easy to integrate, as do the friendly locals. “Many of the locals are somewhat bilingual, and they are very welcoming toward North Americans,” says ILCuenca Correspondent Edd Staton. “We also have a steadily growing expat community here.”
The country’s heritage is writ large in its culture, fusing indigenous influences with various European and African peoples who have settled there over the centuries. This multitude of cultures inevitably influences Ecuadorian cuisine, which is as varied as it is delicious and affordable, with new and reputable restaurants springing up all the time.
As many expats note, Ecuador delivers fresh experiences every day, making it the perfect location for someone in search of a happy and fulfilling life overseas.
Colombia—Latin America’s Health Care Hotspot
For North Americans heading south, Colombia is becoming an increasingly popular choice. Given all that this diverse country has to offer, it’s not difficult to see why.
Second only to Ecuador among South American nations this year, Colombia has an incredibly low cost of living; according to IL Colombia Correspondent Michael Evans, a couple can live comfortably on just over $1,200 a month.
What’s more, Colombia boasts one of the finest and most affordable health care systems in the region, a factor that has seen large expat communities sprout up in cities like Bogotá and Medellín.
“You can get health-care treatment comparable to that in the U.S. in any large or mid-sized city,” says Michael. “In a 2014 survey, 18 Colombian medical institutions ranked among the top 45 in Latin America. According to the World Health Organization, Colombia actually has better health care than the United States or Canada.”
There’s no shortage of things to do, either. And accessing the country has never been easier, thanks to an increase in direct flights from the States.
“Even small towns have community swimming pools and tennis courts, and some major cities have golf courses,” says Michael. “In Colombia, you can go hiking, white-water rafting, paragliding, mountain climbing, spelunking, swimming, water skiing, and scuba diving. Colombia is the second-most biodiverse country on the planet. It has beaches, jungles, deserts, and a few steamy volcanoes. You’ll never get bored in Colombia.”
THE FINAL SCORES
Mexico went from 6th to 3rd place in the International Living Retirement Index
North and Central America
Panama—Best Retirement Benefits in the World
Runner-up in the Index—and the best retirement destination in Central America—Panama offers retiree expats the advantages of the world’s best retirement program: the Pensionado visa.
“Panama wants you to come—and their policies court you,” says Jessica Ramesch, IL’s Panama Editor. “The Pensionado visa is available to anyone with a lifetime pension of over $1,000 a month. Discounts you can get with the visa include 20% off medical services, 50% off entertainment, 25% off restaurant meals, 25% off air fare, and 25% off electricity and phone bills.”
Add all this to the country’s already low cost of living, and Panama is the very definition of an affordable expat haven. For under $2,000, a couple can live comfortably in a country with a well-earned reputation for being expat-friendly.
Thriving expat communities in towns such as Boquete, Coronado, and Pedasí attest to the ease of integration and afford you plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded types.
“There are active expat communities all over Panama,” says Jessica. “This is possibly the friendliest country toward North Americans, because of its long-standing relationship with the U.S. There are so many activities for expats and Panamanians, it is easy to join different groups and get out there and start meeting people. Panamanians like to meet foreigners. They like to try to practice their English on you or hear you trying to speak Spanish. You even make friends at the supermarket here.”
Although a developing nation, Panama’s array of infrastructure makes it easy to get (and get to) what you need. It has both the fastest Internet and best roads in Central America, and it serves as the air hub for the entire region, with a large and growing number of routes serving U.S. and Canadian cities. This makes Panama one of the easiest countries on our list to get home from.
The Pacific coast of Panama is world-renowned for its beautiful beaches and azure waters: the definition of tropical paradise.
Sunshine is ubiquitous in Panama and gray days are rare. The evenings and mornings are pleasantly cool, and rains rarely last more than an hour. At either extreme, the weather is perfectly manageable. The temperature is generally warm, but not so hot as to be stifling, and the ocean water reflects this, making Panama a perfect place if you love to swim. Unlike some other countries in the region, hurricanes do not pose a threat.
This favorable climate makes Panama a perfect place for those who love the outdoors, with plentiful opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, fishing (among the best in the world), and water sports. It also has a vibrant arts and cultural scene centered on the larger towns and cities.
The John Hopkins-affiliated Punta Pacífica Hospital in Panama Cityprovides care comparable to what you’d receive in the U.S. It’s one of five major hospitals spread throughout the country, although smaller facilities also provide first-rate service at highly competitive prices. Because of its small size, you are never more than an hour’s drive from a medical facility in Panama. The local health-care system is both cheap and reputable. A visit to the doctor can set you back as little as $5.
Mexico—Thriving Expat Communities South of the Rio Grande
One of the world’s best expat havens lies just south of the border, proving that you don’t have to traverse the globe to find your own piece of paradise. Due to its proximity to the U.S., the comforts of home are never far away in Mexico. English is widely spoken in expat havens (though Spanish will help tremendously) and U.S. food, products, and sports are also popular.
“In Mexico I can get almost anything I could get back home, between the U.S. chain stores and the local shops and markets plus I can get all the wonderful local specialties,” says ILEditor Glynna Prentice. “The big difference is the prices. Tickets to a top-notch concert may cost me $8 or even less…and I can walk to the concert hall through a beautiful colonial city. I can buy a week’s worth of groceries for $15 or $20, and I don’t know anyone who pays more than a few hundred dollars a year in property taxes.”
Established expat havens in communities such as Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende ease the integration process, while excellent property can still be found for far less than you’d pay in the States. In communities where expats flock, health care is as good as what you’d expect at home, but delivered at a much lower cost, leaving you with plenty of money in your wallet to enjoy the innumerable activities and cultural treasures this large and diverse country has to offer.
From the pristine beaches of Puerto Vallarta and the scenic streets of San Miguel de Allende to thebeautiful City of Mérida, the breathtaking Colonial Haciendas, the mystical “Cenotes” and the stunning Mayan ruins of the Yucatán, Mexico has it all.
Hacienda in Yucatan (Photo: Google)
This country can cater to a wide range of tastes—whether you’re in search of a quiet getaway or on the hunt for adventure. The country’s large size also affords it a diverse range of climates to accommodate every tolerance of heat, humidity, and rainfall. Good Internet and infrastructure can be found throughout most of the country, and Mexico’s famed cuisine is another much-loved plus. Regular flights to and from the U.S. are also a distinct advantage…or you could drive home if so inclined.
Asia
Malaysia—Great Value for Money in a Cultural Melting Pot
Every year, more and more expats are waking up to the amazing opportunities Malaysia has to offer. The country has one of the most robust economies in Asia, and this is reflected in the consistently high standard of living available to locals and expats alike. It’s just one of many factors that led to it being ranked the highest Asian nation in this year’s index.
Quality of life in Malaysia is cost-efficient as well as excellent. In typical expat locations such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang, high-quality real estate is available for rent at a low cost. Why buy when you can rent a 1,600-square-foot apartment with a swimming pool for just $850 a month?
“I rent a 1,600-square-foot apartment with an amazing pool, just five minutes’ walk from the ritzy Gurney Plaza shopping mall,” says New Yorker Thomas O’Neal of his new life in Penang. “It costs me just $850 a month. I don’t need a car, either, so I’m saving money left, right, and center.On a modest budget, you truly can savor a life of luxury here. With your money going further, you can afford to treat yourself to the stunning array of local food—which mirrors Malaysia’s diverse cultural make-up. For as little as $5, you can enjoy an excellent meal, with a bottle of wine setting you back the same price. The street food is similarly scrumptious and one of the true charms of Malaysian cuisine.
“I love the weather—82 F on average—and the ease of getting to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. When you combine that with a cost of living of $1,500 per month, including my rent, it’s almost unbeatable.”
The country makes a perfect base from which you can explore the innumerable natural, historical, and cultural treasures that Southeast Asia has to offer. The proliferation of cheap Asian airlines in recent years has made it easier (and more affordable) than ever to explore Thailand, Indonesia, India, and Japan. In Malaysia, Asia is truly at your doorstep.
Direct flights to the U.S. are also available, so getting home for the holidays needn’t be a concern. Neither is Internet access, as every year high-speed Internet makes more and more inroads into the country. It’s already widely and cheaply available in popular expat destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
As a throwback to the British colonial period, English is widely spoken by locals, making it all the easier to adjust and find your way around. And cities like Penang have plenty of social occasions and festivities for you to enjoy, perfect opportunities to mingle with locals and expats alike.
Because of its easy mix of the archaic and modern, Malaysia has been described by expats as stepping back in time, yet with all the benefits of modern comforts. Twenty-first century conveniences abound, but Malaysia holds onto enough of its Old-World, Asian charm to make it a real haven for those eager to experience new cultures and traditions. The public transport network is comprehensive—you don’t need a car, particularly in the cities. And the quality of the roads is first-rate, so if you do decide to invest in a vehicle, dirt tracks won’t be an issue. Health care quality is similarly top-notch, particularly in the larger cities, where it is comparable to that in any First-World nation. A doctor’s appointment will set you back as little as $15.
Thailand—Low-Cost Health Care and Lots to Do
As Asia’s appeal to North American expats continues to grow, Thailand has become a popular destination. The country combines the best of authentic Asian cuisine and culture with enough North American influences to help you feel at home.
Thriving expat communities already exist in the larger cities, such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and resort areas, such as Phuket and Hua Hin. The Thai people are also well-known for their welcoming and accepting nature, their hospitality readily extended to expats.
“Here in Chiang Mai, it is easy to make friends if you make the effort. There are lots of opportunities to get involved with both locals and other expats,” says Steve LePoidevin, who relocated to Chiang Mai from Canada. “There is a large expat community in Chiang Mai, with a Chiang Mai Expat Club that meets monthly, as well as many expat clubs that get together weekly. Whatever your interest, from computers to hiking to motorcycles, there is a group here dedicated to that hobby!”
The choice of restaurants and dining spots is vast in Thailand, and there’s much else besides to immerse yourself in. Choices for concerts, gigs, and exhibitions abound in Bangkok, and Chiang Mai has a huge art scene.
“There is very little that you cannot find here in terms of cuisine, whether you are looking for a small bistro or a five-star dining experience,” Steve says. “There are many art exhibitions on a regular basis and lots of concerts. Chiang Mai has a large arts community as a result of the universities here.”
But culture isn’t the only draw. The country is an outdoor-lover’s paradise, with a rich mosaic of rainforests, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking temples. On islands such as Koh Samui, Thailand also boasts some of the most beautiful tropical beaches you’ll find anywhere in the world, with properties available at highly affordable prices. But then, affordable homes and a relatively low cost of living can be found right across Thailand. Even in the likes of Chiang Mai, a couple can live comfortably on a modest budget of $1,500 a month.
Excellent health care is available throughout the country, but the best care to be had is in the city centers, especially in Bangkok. Basic doctor’s visits and dental procedures (such as cleanings and fillings) can cost as little as $30, while a basic health insurance plan starts at around $300.
Europe
Spain—Europe’s Most Affordable Retirement Haven
For those seeking sun and affordable living in Europe, Spain remains by far the best option available, evidenced by its standing as the top European nation in this year’s index.
“Spain is a great favorite with many people, including me,” says IL Editor Glynna Prentice. “It has the rich history and traditions that you expect from Europe, and all the First-World conveniences. But it also has a fun-loving, late-night culture, wonderful food, and people who place great value on family and friendships, and that’s very appealing.”
For years, Spain’s famously warm climate has been attracting expats from colder climes. So if it’s sun you’re after, you can do much worse. The aptly named Costa del Sol (“Coast of the Sun”), a 100-mile stretch along Spain’s southern Mediterranean coast, is blessed with some of the best summers (and beaches) in the world. But even the more northern reaches of the country (such as Catalonia and parts of the northwest coast) provide tee-shirts-and-shorts weather late into the year. Winters in these areas are never worse than mild.Although not as cheap as in most of Latin America, property in Spain is often of a high standard and far better value than in many other European countries. Likewise, Spain’s cost of living is lower than what you find in much of Europe. A couple can live comfortably in many cities in Spain for about $2,600 a month, including rent, making Spain a great warm-weather, low cost choice for anyone who wants to spend time in Europe.
For years, Spain’s famously warm climate has been attracting expats from colder climes. So if it’s sun you’re after, you can do much worse. The aptly named Costa del Sol (“Coast of the Sun”), a 100-mile stretch along Spain’s southern Mediterranean coast, is blessed with some of the best summers (and beaches) in the world. But even the more northern reaches of the country (such as Catalonia and parts of the northwest coast) provide tee-shirts-and-shorts weather late into the year. Winters in these areas are never worse than mild.Although not as cheap as in most of Latin America, property in Spain is often of a high standard and far better value than in many other European countries. Likewise, Spain’s cost of living is lower than what you find in much of Europe. A couple can live comfortably in many cities in Spain for about $2,600 a month, including rent, making Spain a great warm-weather, low cost choice for anyone who wants to spend time in Europe.
Spain is truly a country that has it all. “Whether you want to dine like royalty in San Sebastián, ski in the Pyrenees, run with the bulls in Pamplona, explore museums in Barcelona, hit the beach in Alicante, or wander Moorish palaces in Granada, Spain delivers,” says Glynna. “Spain is incredibly diverse, with something to suit everyone.”
Spain’s people, cityscapes, and famed food draw influence from the many groups who have settled there over the centuries: Basques, Moors, Celts, Catalans, and others, with each region flavored by its own identity. It all guarantees you have plenty to see and do.
For lovers of wide-open spaces, Spain’s vast, photogenic landscapes are a hiker’s heaven. Owing to its location at the meeting point of Eurasia and Africa, it also boasts some of the best bird-watching on the planet: Each season brings different feathered treasures, as they migrate from one continent to the other.
All the First-World amenities you would expect of a European country are abundant in Spain. The Internet is reliable and fast, with coverage everywhere. Public transport is so efficient that you only need a car in the most remote regions. Home comforts—U.S. television, movies, and music—are easy to come by, too.
Spain’s health-care system is routinely recognized by the World Health Organization as one of the best in the world.
Malta—The Mediterranean’s Hidden Treasure
Sitting right at the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta blends the best of southern-European graciousness with one of the best qualities of life to be found in Europe. First-World standards of service and infrastructure, a wealth of historical and architectural treasures from its eons of history (including nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites), world-class golf courses, and the sparkling Mediterranean—all in a country one-tenth the size of Rhode Island—ensure that this tiny island will keep you occupied.
“Malta is small, but it packs a lot into that space: ancient ruins, charming cities, some beautiful beaches, and a varied, interesting population,” says IL Editor Glynna Prentice. “In Valletta, the capital, there’s something going on almost every night—for instance, a concert, a fireworks display or an exhibit. So you’re never bored.”
Owing to its time as a British colony, locals speak fluent English—which, together with their warm and welcoming attitude, makes for easy integration. Malta enjoys plentiful sunshine year-round, on top of world-class health care (consistently ranked among the top five in the world by the World Health Organization) and tasty Mediterranean cuisine. The island also has one of the lowest crime rates to be found anywhere. Malta may be one of the more expensive locations on our list in terms of real estate, but bargains can be found if you’re willing to shop shrewdly.
“You can still find comfortable apartments in beach areas, or even right in Valletta, for under $175,000,” says Glynna.
Due to its small size and excellent public transport network, getting around and seeing the sights is easy. Malta also makes an excellent base from which to explore the wider Mediterranean region.
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