Mexico offers lots of options and opportunity for the expat. This is a big, extraordinarily diverse country that offers two long coasts, mountains, and colonial cities… not to mention Mayan ruins, jungle, rain forest, rivers, and lakes.

Mexico is the most accessible country in the region from the United States and Canada. Being in North America, this country is home to many American franchises, from McDonalds to Pet Depot and Walmart to Starbucks. Almost anything you buy in the States is also available in Mexico, though ease of availability would depend on your location (rural and remote areas would offer fewer franchises and order fewer imports).

For all these reasons Mexico is home to the biggest established population of American expats in the world. Ajijic and Chapala are two of the world’s biggest established communities of North American retirees overseas (though these aren’t our top recommendations in the country).

Puerto Vallarta is of the most affordable turnkey retirement on the Pacific Ocean, here, you could enjoy all the comforts of home at a fraction of the cost (despite the well-established expat community).

The silver mines in Mexico’s central highlands provided the incredible wealth that impelled Spain to world prominence in the 16th century and created Guanajuato, the crown jewel of Mexico’s colonial cities. Along with Guanajuato and Puerto Vallarta and we recommend the Bahia de Navidad and San Miguel de Allende.

Mexico is, perhaps, your best choice if you seek an adventure overseas with all the comforts of home.