The foreign population in Bacalar is relatively small and varied. US-ers and Canadians make up the majority, but there are also a group of Mexicans from Mexico City who maintain a residency here. Throw in a handful of Europeans and several folks from South America and social gatherings are quite multi-lingual with everyone speaking whichever language they care to practice.
Not all of the expats are retired. There are young families and each new friend opens an opportunity to meet others and travel in a variety of social circles. Many people live here up to six months and return to their home country to work or enjoy a cooler climate than is the humid, rainy, Bacalar summer.
When Lisa and I decided on Mexico, we were clear that we wanted to make local friends and not simply socialize with English-speaking foreigners. We are finding that the lines blurr and it’s more about taking time and getting out, talking to everyone, not being afraid to make mistakes speaking Spanish and always making a point of greeting and saying goodbye to everyone.
Food is always a way to connect. We are also trying – watching soccer matches, playing cards and learning new skills. Can you tell that our calendar is filling up? Life in Bacalar is looking sweet.
Hola Alex,
Love your poster, “Enjoy the ride”.
Cheers!
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Always good to hear from you Bruce. Maybe we’ll make it to PV one day.
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As always, I am inspired by your wonderful blog. As we consider Bacalar for our main place, I am remembering all you have written about. Hoping to see you this fall…with love, L
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It really has taken time to fit in and slow down. I think we expected to be welcomed with open arms. We are an interesting little community. Look forward to seeing you this winter. We may even be neighbors!
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great pictures and yea! you are settling in. sweet. love you both.
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Thanks Garth. We are STILL slowing down. Every day we learn that so much of what we thought was important in life just isn’t. It is both disconcerting and freeing.
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Enjoy the ride, for sure! Life is a long, twisting ride and we never know what may be around the next curve or over the hill. Plan to enjoy and you will.
One thing I love about being in Mexico is finding new local friends. I have been so warmly welcomed into homes, fed beautiful meals, and invited on interesting outings. Who knows what’s next?
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You are so right. Our policy is to respond “yes” to whatever life throws at us.
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Hey Alex and Lisa – sounds like life is good on your end. Keep up your trek. I know you’re on the right path. Love your posts. ~Nancy
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So nice of you to stop by Nancy. Hope you are well. Hugs to all at DSHS.
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