Finding the Perfect Fit

If you know me, you know I love change. When I first decided to “go south” for the winters, it was my intent to go somewhere new every year. Last year I was in Zihuatenejo, this year Bucerias. Next year was to be Playa del Carmen. Going back to the same place every year seemed kind of boring to me. However, after this winter, we had a change of heart, and have changed our plan, because there is something to be said for finding the perfect place to just stay put.

Here at Los Arroyos Verdes, in Bucerias, there is a true sense of community. There are 34 residences here spread out amongst beautiful gardens.

Some are two story houses, some are lofts, some are small apartments, and some are standalone units with private yards.
There are even a couple of Airstream trailers. All units are in small clusters that encourage interaction, and the clusters surround a huge central pool and lounge area.

Most units are rented by Americans and Canadians on a 6 month basis although there are a growing number of people now living here full time. The residences are spread throughout this gorgeous botanical garden on the outskirts of Bucerias, and the Mexican woman who designed the development is as much a part of this community as anyone. Her home is in the centre of the community. Every Monday night everyone gathers to play Mexican trains. Once a month we have a pot luck supper. Every Sunday there is live music, and three times a week we play pickle ball. Not everyone does every activity, but we are all a part of this community. Last night we went to a social gathering around the pool to celebrate someone’s 89th birthday. He has been coming here for many years, and when he gave his speech, he said “coming here each winter feels like coming home to family.”

Stephane and I decided that instead of going home to Canada this summer, and then going somewhere else next winter, we would take two years to travel. Our journey will take us to several places we want to “try on.” We want to find our forever place. The place where we will celebrate our 89th birthdays and tell everyone we are grateful to be "coming home" each winter. We may have already found it here – but we want to be certain.

We love the west coast of Mexico for its beauty: the Sierra Madre mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in such a dramatic way; the lushness of the jungle and the fact that you can get easy, cheap direct flights here from Canada are all real pluses. But we are also intrigued by the east coast of Mexico – where we are headed in just over a week.

On the east coast we will look at real estate for sale and rent in Cancun, Progreso, Puerto Morales, and Playa del Carmen. But more important than walking the white limestone sand beaches and enjoying the warm crystal clear turquoise waters, we will take some time to experience the community, join the local pickle ball club and find some expats to mingle with, because where we decide to ultimately land permanently will depend a great deal on the people. We have learned that community is a big part of what makes us happy. Having friends to talk to, to play with, and to debate with is all a big part of what gives us pleasure.

Just as I felt sad to leave behind our community in Oliver, BC, I feel a little sad to think we will soon be leaving all our new friends here. But I look forward to meeting new people, and trying on new communities to find the perfect fit.