International Living Postcards– your daily escape
Friday, Feb. 2, 2007
Dating isn’t my only objective but…would love to see some info on singles in Mexico. As a 55 year old single artist I would consider San Miguel but have been told by friends who previously lived there that the social scene is over-run with women! Is there a place in Mexico with expats, culture, an artistic community, great weather, and social scene for me?
- Single Expat
Our resident Latin America Insider, replies:
Dear Single Expat,
Yes, there are more women than men in San Miguel…as much as 20 times more, according to some reports. But that’s the gringo population; don’t forget about all those extraordinary eligible Mexican men…
Other towns popular with expats in Mexico you might consider include Puerto Vallarta, Ajijic (Lake Chapala), and Merida (I’ve recommended all to friends in the past, and continue to do so).
Puerto Vallarta is a bustling metropolitan resort town, with a lively arts and culture scene. I have no idea about the ratio of men to women (honestly, dear husband, in case you’re reading) but I suspect it is far more equitable than San Miguel. The weather there is perfect Dec. through May, and a bit hot and humid the rest of the year.
Ajijic, on the other hand, has what may be the world’s best climate…even better than San Miguel. It is home to the largest number of U.S. retirees outside the States, so there is plenty to do for newly minted expats. I think you’ll find the women to men ratio there to be about even.
Merida is in the Yucatan Peninsula, and is growing in favor among expats, largely because the prices of colonial homes in the town center are still reasonable. There is a growing gay population in Merida, and that means the homes are being lovingly and tastefully renovated (not that I’m accusing the other couples in town of bad taste). The drawback is the weather: Beastly humid in the summers.
I love all these places and could quite happily live in any of them.
The best thing for you to do is to come and see for yourself. Our next Live and Prosper in Mexico Seminar takes place June 3 in San Miguel (20 women for every man, remember). Write to events@internationalliving.com for the best seats.
Suzan Haskins
Latin America Insider, International Living
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P.S. I am often asked about how gays are accepted in this part of the world. While religion (and all that comes with it) is important here, most everyone in Latin America has a “live and let live” attitude. They are not judgmental, and they care more about personal character and good manners than just about anything else.
