Life here is less challenging than it was at first, and not just because we have better Spanish. For example the list of things that I buy in the US is getting smaller and smaller. You can now find organic food, decent peanut butter, and Keen sandals. Kindles and iPads make it easy to get any book you want. Netflix Mexico has pretty decent programming. You can even buy things on eBay and with the Estafeta connection have them shipped here for $10. The things I tend to buy in the US these days are vitamins and clothing, as clothing here is expensive and (in my opinion) not high quality.
We have enjoyed traveling around México every year – there are endless places to explore. There are even 28 new Pueblos Mágicos this year! Tourism is up everywhere, and Mazatlán is no exception. The new road between here and Durango has brought more visitors than expected, and hotels here are full most weekends. There will be 127 cruise ship arrivals here this coming season, and the city seems committed to improvements that will make those visitors want to return. And why wouldn’t they, as Mazatlán was named the 4th best city to live in México
We’re having additional air connections, making it easier to get around, but we’re still hoping for WestJet and Alaska to return to their previous flight levels. Most of us still yearn for the lost direct flights North we used to enjoy.
Paul and I have made it through serious illnesses here without ever even thinking for a moment about heading North. Our care and treatment was better than first class, and our bills were tiny compared to what they would have been up North.
To sum up, we are both happy that we moved to Mazatlán eight years ago. It’s just home, now. What are you waiting for?
Wendy Kain
October 6, 2015Nicely written Nancy. And the two of you have been a great addition to Mazatlan.
Nancy
October 6, 2015Thanks Wendy, you too of course!
1st Mate
October 6, 2015Nancy, I remember when you and Paul were counting down the days and making detailed plans, and I could relate because Jim and I had only come to MX maybe two years before. I was blogging too, about all the things I found fascinating about life in Mexico, including sailing our boat (which appears to have come to an end). I live in a much smaller town than Maz, and have become so involved in the community I can’t picture ever leaving. But some of my best times were spent in Maz when we were at the marina there, and following your blog has kept my memories alive. You have been one of the most consistent bloggers I corresponded with and getting together with you and Paul f2f was one of the highlights of our last couple of cruises south. I’ve just about turned into a vegetarian, largely due to your influence.
Barbara Lane
October 6, 2015Oh my gosh, has it been eight years?! I started reading your blog when you were still in WA, getting your house ready to sell, ripping CDs (I recall that fell to you), etc. I was preparing for my move to San Miguel when I retired – had been for a few years before I found your blog – and I’m still not there yet but still preparing for it. It’s picked up speed considerably as I can (finally) retire next year. SO exciting. Still so much to do! I know you know.
I am so thankful that you share your journey. I cannot begin to tell you what a tremendous help it is to hear of others who have done it. Also of course I simply love hearing how you live and love your life.
Best wishes to you both – I don’t comment often but have been with you for most of the ride and have loved every minute of it. You have been in my prayers often over these years, and are still and forever one of my touchstones for How To Do Life Well.
Saludos
Kathi McCaw
October 6, 2015This is how we feel, too! Still an adventure, but a comfortable adventure!
Mary Ann
October 6, 2015Closed on our condo and moving in 10/29. Can’t wait and glad to read your blog on Mazatlan
Troy
October 6, 2015Nancy,
Congrats on your 8 year anniversary. My wife and I can’t wait to visit Mazatlán. You do a great job of selling it through your blog. It is on our list of potential places to retire. Just have to get the boys out of college and off the payroll.
Regards,
Troy
Michael
October 6, 2015Really. 8 years!
I had to count backwards a few times. I even checked my archived emails.
It seems both a shorter and longer time than that.
Looking forward to returning “home” to Mazatlán soon.
Jan Marquardt
October 7, 2015I loved reading your blog and I can’t believe it’s been eight years. I remember looking at your casa when it was up for sale before you bought it and what you’ve done to it is absolutely amazing. Your blog has been a godsend for us that don’t Live there year-round and we so appreciate everything you and Paul have done. Look forward to seeing you this winter and hope maybe you can give me some knitting lessons. Enjoy the ocean stay cool and hope to see you soon.
judith
October 7, 2015I remember arriving at about the same time that you did. You did a fantastic job of getting your house ready. Remember vacuuming every day? It is great to read about your love of Mazatlan. Mazatlan is better because of you!
caren cross
October 7, 2015WOW!! Eight years. I remember well when you started!
Sheri
October 7, 2015I love your writings and always wait impatiently for the next!! My hubby and I are also dreaming of our time when we come back to Mazatlan, his home town, to semi retire. Hoping it will be next year, fingers crossed….
Christine
October 7, 2015I,too, have enjoyed your blog! I think yesterday was one of the saddest days of my life when I signed the contract with the real estate company to sell my house. I have loved living here and am so sad to be leaving. Luckily, we will be within driving distance and can spend some winters here. The past 5 years have been better than anything I imagined before moving to Mazatlán. Now I will have to live vicariously through your blog and others!
Nancy
October 8, 2015Thanks, everyone! It’s been a great ride so far, I hope the next eight are as good.
Contessa
October 16, 2015What a wonderful eight years. You certainly haven’t just been sitting around, you have become so involved in the community and we are grateful. Thanks for continuing to take the time so share so many wonderful things with us your readers.