Wondering where all those overseas Canadians who head south when the snow flies spend their winters?

Think sunshine, sand, and surf, and you’ll soon zero in.

Of course, the southern U.S. is a popular destination, but overseas Canadians looking for lower costs (especially for health care, which in the U.S. can be prohibitive) are starting to turn up in Mexico by the thousands.

Overseas Canadians in Baja

The Sea of Cortez

If you’re driving down from Vancouver or British Colombia, Baja California is a logical destination.

Both the western Pacific side and the eastern Sea of Cortez shoreline abound with long stretches of sandy beach and plenty of places to rent or part the RV.

Overseas Canadians on the West Coast

The Sea of Cortez has two coasts, and one is the west coast of the Mexican mainland, where many overseas Canadians spend the winter. Mazatlan is a favorite spot, but the entire stretch of coast has seaside towns and villages that grown significant Canadian populations during the winter.

Overseas Canadians in the Central Highlands

Not all overseas Canadians in Mexico head for the beach – many like the milder climate and historic fascination of Mexico’s Central Highlands. The town of Patzcuaro and its nearby lake is a favorite draw, but Central Mexico is enormous with hundreds of relaxing, low-cost towns and villages to choose from.

Overseas Canadians on the Gulf Coast

Mexico’s east has a double treat in store for overseas Canadians – beaches on the Gulf Coast and the Caribbean. Progreso on the northern coast of Yucatan state is a favorite, with great beaches and much lower prices than farther east on the Caribbean coast. Canadian enclaves are common on the Gulf coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, and the area is also the northern heartland of the Maya empire, with dozens of historic ruins to explore and cool underground cenotes, or sink holes, to swim in for a change from the beach.

Overseas Canadians on the Caribbean

You’ll find plenty of Canadians in Cancun and other Caribbean coast beaches

Mexico’s Caribbean coast if the stuff picture postcards are made of, and you’ll find overseas Canadians from Cancun and Isla Mujeres in the north all the way to Chetumal down on the Belize border. Easy driving and long stretches of sugar-white beaches mean plenty of places to explore.

So when the snow flies, expect to find Canadians heading for destinations throughout Mexico, one of the most diverse, affordable, and fun places for rest and relaxation outside Canada.

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