Ajijic more than likely is an Indian name that comes from the original inhabitants of this area, the nomadic Native American tribes who lived here until the Spanish came. In the state of Jalisco, Mexico, about three miles from Chapala is the town of Ajijic which is nestled by mountains on all four sides.

Because of being situated between the mountains the temperatures are normally mild. The average year round temperature is 72 degrees. The winter can get to the 50s and it has gotten as high as 90s in the heat of the summer. This is one of the pulls this area has for retirees since many are leaving the colder northern climates to retire in the sunshine.

The town of Ajijic is 5,046 feet above sea level and shares space with a mesa that is also the home of the Sierra Madre Mountains. The only down side to the area is the rainy season which normally starts in June and goes through October, with the average amount of rainfall being 34 inches.

Ajijic is a great place for shopping and browsing. With the art galleries that are quite numerous on the streets of downtown to the cafes that are great for stopping by for a cup of coffee, this area has a little of everything to offer. There is an open-air market that is open every Wednesday.

There are over 10,000 people living here from other areas of the country so there will be sure to be someone from a relatively close area of your hometown. If not, this is a friendly area and you are sure to meet plenty of people who share your interests.

The idea of living in a Mexican village yet having all the conveniences of the modern world is the best of both worlds. Guadalajara is only 45 minutes away and this is the second largest city in Mexico so if there is something you need that cannot be found in Ajijic, you are not far from the big city.

There are many types of activities in close proximity to Ajijic. Golf is one that many people enjoy and being able to play year round is one of the benefits of living in a mild climate. There are numerous restaurants that are available for different cuisine whenever you want. The Guadalajara Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the close amenities. There is live theatre and movies which are in English, so no worries about understanding the movie.

The restful atmosphere while still providing the closeness of the city so whatever you may desire to do is available for your There are festivals and crafts, street fairs and many other activities that will make you wish you had moved here years ago. Since the cost of living is so much in virtually every area north of Mexico, this is one place that you can live in relative comfort for much less than in almost any other area. Ajijic has everything you will need to retire and live a life of more leisure than ever before.