TOWNS ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF LAKE CHAPALA

Mexico Connect Forum Discussion Threads

Posted by Barry on Marzo 20, 2000

Any information (especially on climate and residential living) on towns on the south side of Lake Chapala would be appreciated. I was able to find some sketchy information on Mazamitla, but details on climate and living conditions were sparse at best. TY

Posted by heather hess on Marzo 21, 2000

I wouldn't advise Mazamitla. However, Tizapan del Alto is a great place to live!!!!

heather

Posted by Jeff Pearson on Marzo 23, 2000

Why do you advise against Mazamitla? I've been curious about this town for a couple of years. I've been by it on the highway several times, but haven’t yet stopped. I rather like the area.

Posted by David Eidell on Marzo 20, 2000

The south side of the lake is divided by Jalisco and Michoacan. My opinion is that the climate is similar. I prefer the southern shore for purposes of aesthetics and scenery. I think that you're going to find the towns there thoroughly Mexican in character. I've not done research on the area but seem to linger there longer than I should when I'm in the neighborhood. Naturally I am curious as to why you are attracted specifically to the south side of the lake.

Saludos, David

Posted by Barry on Marzo 21, 2000

Some reasons for my interest:

1. If the north side becomes too much like what we are trying to get away from, possibly the south side could be an alternative. We could still easily access the services available on the north side.

2. We know that the north side is becoming increasingly expensive. The south side might be an alternative (if similar climate, etc.) if expenses on the north side outstrip our income.

3. The few descriptions I have read lead me to believe that the natural beauty of the south side is fully preserved, except of course, for the water levels of the lake. I hope this discussion thread will remain active for a while!

Posted by Jerry on Marzo 22, 2000

It is much cheaper for housing. A house in Porto Corono costs much less than a similar house in Ajijic. Possibly as little as half as much. The big question is does a person use the facilities on the North side, i.e., MBE, LCS, Super Lake, El Torrito, doctors, emergency clinics etc. If so, depending on the number of trips from South to North over a period, you could wind up spending enough on gas and car wear and tear to offset the lower priced housing.

Jerry

Posted by Steve on Marzo 23, 2000

Barry,
I liked Matzamitla - it is much more beautiful than the North part of the lake. But it is high in the mountains (and one of the few places in this area with an abundance of trees) AND IT IS COLD!!!!! Nice in the Summer - but bring your long johns for the winter. You might be interested in Jocotepec, which is at the end of the lake with reasonable prices...yet still convenient to all of the facilities here. There are also a few places just on the start of the south side as you come around from Jocotepec - where things are inexpensive. Other alternatives are the communities on the airport road just after you go over the mountain towards Guadalajara. I was visiting someone there the other day in Ixtlahuacan. There is a rather large subdivision there which never sold out and which has quite a number of houses for sale or rent at rather reasonable prices.

Posted by Barry on Marzo 22, 2000

Is there bus service available between north and south sides? If so is it realistic for us?

Posted by David McL on Marzo 23, 2000

Yes, via Jocotepec, which is at the west end of Lake Chapala. You will need to change buses there.

As to climate etc. - the south side is quite different from the more populated North side. The topogaphy is gentler, more sloping and much more agricultural. It is both drier, hotter and wetter. (What?) Yup, during the rainy season the south side gets more rain, however as it also gets more sun, it becomes hotter and drier. The villages are much more comfortable to live in as they are working towns with little in the way of estranjero residents or influences. There are far more scorpions, but this is off-set by the fact that there are thermal waters everywhere. Many properties have thermal systems and pools.

Would I live there? Yes. However the exchange includes: distances to emergency medical, serious shopping, lack of local ISP service, for: tranquility, lower costs, integration, incredible views, tranquility, horse country . . .

The ultimate decision is a matter of lifestyle

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