It’s sad that you think it’s “just another over developed tourist attraction these days”! I first arrived in 1972 and I think it is still absolutely magical to this day. Wonderful article Elisabeth! xo

In our town of maybe a thousand residents, which swells on weekends because it’s on the playa, most in fact do not speak English. Because of those five days though we just fell into the culture. There are maybe 10 gringos in our town and half are there only half the time. And as gringos go we are out and about more than most others except one couple.

We are well known the town over. We’ve been invited to so many family events, church events, to eat and drink with friends. We in turn share some of our resources to our great friends in the way of food and drink and parties. We actually have more friends here, maybe a hundred (I’m not exaggerating), than we do in the states. Total. We are pretty good at making new friends. But Mexicans make that easy.

I’ve been going to Mexico for 12 years plus. First for the sun. But I quickly found out the culture and the people were the truly rewarding reasons to come. We find a way to communicate. Via translation apps. Pictures. Slowly picking up Spanish. Utilizing the English speaking Mexicans to translate. Or just the universal forms of communication. Sharing. Music. Food. Fiesta. Booze. Good times.

We have made the best possible decision on where to build a house, start a small business, and spend the rest of our lives. We are BEYOND blessed. We literally walk the town, as we don’t have a car here yet, and we get smiles and salutations constantly. Do we go out of our way to spread good will? We do. Do we live life like Mexicans? Absolutely. We are live and let live people. Do we impose our views and ideas? No. Do we offer up some ideas on how the town can increase tourism and jobs by our experiences in business? Yes but just out of love for the people.

We love Mexico City. We will go back yearly. But honestly the fewer gringos the better as far as where we want to live. That’s a reflection of how truly great the culture and the people of Mexico are. Kind. Courteous. Friendly. Smiling. Happy. Hard working. Sincere. Helpful. Giving. Loving life and community. We could not be happier. And our friends and the people accept us just as we are.

Mexico is a magical place.