Living the High Life in Ajijic

I'm currently staying at the Real de Chapala Hotel in Ajijic, and it's an absolute paradise. This stunning lakefront property has heated pools, jacuzzis, delicious food, and breathtaking views of Lake Chapala. I could definitely get used to this lifestyle.

After spending some time here, I now understand why so many expats choose to retire in Ajijic. The temperature is just right - not too hot, not too cold. Even during the summer months, the weather remains comfortable. This is a stark contrast to the summer I spent in Barra de Navidad, where the heat was unbearable without air conditioning and a pool. Here in Ajijic, the climate is so mild that you can get by with just fans.

As my stay comes to an end, I'll be heading back to Melaque in a few days. I'm definitely going to miss this perfect weather and the quiet environment. Ajijic has truly captivated me, and I’d love to return here again sometime. Plus, I have a new friend to visit - my horse buddy Romeo. This place has left a lasting impression on me, and I can't wait to come back and experience it again.

View from my room

Mazamitla: A Perfect Mountain Escape

I'm spending a few days in Mazamitla, a charming mountain town at 8,200 feet above sea level. Known as the 'Switzerland of Mexico', it features cool, less humid weather and even had snow last week. Despite the cold, I'm loving it.
 
Founded in 1537, Mazamitla has a quaint atmosphere with cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses. In the central plaza, you'll find the Parroquia de San Cristóbal. This beautiful church, known for its blend of Gothic and Mexican colonial architecture, is a key landmark and cultural centrepiece. 

The area offers hiking, mountain biking, and the stunning El Salto waterfall. Visitors can enjoy festivals like the Fiesta de San Cristóbal, explore local markets, and savour regional cuisine. 

With cozy cabins and modern hotels, Mazamitla provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. I've fallen in love with this place and look forward to my next visit.

 

A Day in Comala

                              

I spent some time in Comala today. Rich in history and tradition, Comala was founded in the 16th century and features a unique blend of Spanish colonial architecture and indigenous influences.

I really enjoyed walking around the beautiful cathedral, though I found the Jesus statue in the corner a little creepy. After the unnerving Jesus experience, I had lunch outdoors with a stunning view of the cathedral and the main square. The meal was delicious, and the mariachi band playing at my table was such a treat. 

What a beautiful city. I wish I could have spent more time in Comala, but alas, I had to hit the road again. 

Zoo in Colima

I enjoyed walking through the Griselda Alvarez Regional Park in downtown Colima. It's a lush tropical looking park with a little zoo. They had a variety of animals, including monkeys, birds, hairless dogs, giant iguanas and two beautiful lions.

Seeing the Mexican Hairless dogs (Xoloitzcuintle) locked in cages as a zoo exhibit was really tough to see. When they wagged their tails and we're so excited to see me, I just had to pet them. So I went around to the back of their cages, reached in and pet each one of them. They were so friendly and happy to have some attention. One of them looked like a Lab cross. She was a mess. Her eyes were infected and the poor thing was so fat it broke my heart. I felt so bad for her and all of them actually. They're dogs. They should be living homes with loving owners, not living in a zoo. I just wanted to take them all home.  

Getting over the bridge to 'iguana island' was interesting. In my excitement/terror of seeing the iguanas I missed seeing a hole in the bridge and stuck my foot through it. Thankfully I never fell in. Between the nasty green water, not knowing how to swim and huge iguanas swimming around, I would of had a heart attack! 

I'm not sure why lizards freak me out so much, but they do. I was pretty nervous standing near these big guys. Every time they'd moved I was ready to run in the other direction. I watched one swim across the water, climb up a tree and turn from orange to green. I was glad it was swimming away from me and not running toward me! 

Colima

Arrived in Colima after riding through some really beautiful countryside. They call Colima the city of palms. That's certainly true. It's a really nice town. I love the architecture. The hotel I'm staying at was built in 1861. It's pretty amazing. I'm going to stay here a few days. 

Going to the zoo tomorrow. :)