King Knish

I apologize if this topic has been discussed before. I will be driving down on 3/1 and wanted to start getting all my documents ready. I have read that the only document that I may need apostilles would be my birth certificate which can be apostilles at my state Secretary office. However, I seem to recall reading that other documents such as my pension and bank statement and other documents should also be apostilled. Can anyone please let me know all documents that will need to be apostilled and if there can all.be done in the States? Really appreciate any help!

I normally get my Rx meds for less than $10 but for some reason my plan won't cover one of my meds. I'll be down next week. Would I be able to get the drug in the area with my US prescription?

So I shouldn’t be concerned because the incidents occurred last year? Seems like it can happen again so I think I have a legitimate concern. Maybe you don’t have dogs.

Crap, I am planning on moving with my 2 dogs and this is really scary stuff. My dogs love to eat anything they can find. I’m also worried about the 4 day drive down with them!

I've been reading a lot about the area but haven't seen any discussion on the elevation impact for visitors. When I traveled to Quito which has a similar elevation, I had a few days of acclimation. I'm assuming the same for Chapala. Also, any help with the local water will be appreciated

I'm 54 (today) and am planning my retirement to Lakeside within the next 4 months. It will be me and my 2 dogs. Im concerned about the age situation. I hope there are a decent number of professional singles in the 30-45 range. Won't know anyone and hopefully I won't get bored with no work routine. Big and scary move, but I need a change. At least I don't think the money situation will be an issue down there. Hope to be able to comfortably live on a $3500 pension. I have other investments, if needed, and SS down the road.

I have to drive down because I'm traveling with my 2 dogs and I can have the car as needed. Don't think it will be easy to find a ride with a 140 lb. Bullmastiff (and/or a Frenchie). My concern with a car is that after the 4 year visa, it sounds like I may need to drive back to the States. Not sure that I will be able to change to Mexican plates. Anyone know about this?

I’m also planning on bringing my 2 dogs. I have a huge Bullmastiff baby that weighs 130 lbs. and a 30 lb. French Bulldog. I hope I can find a real nice 1 or 2 br modern apartment or house to rent in a desireable area. I expect that my budget should be more than enough-$1500 (or more possibly). My other concern is with the bugs, particularly scorpions and ants and the danger to my dogs. Has anyone ever heard of an issue with dogs and bugs? Thanks.

Okay so I've booked the flight, apt. and car. Just need to get a ride to the airport and find someone to take care of the dogs. Anyway, can someone tell me whether I need to install a sim card in my phone to use it while visiting? If so, are they available to buy in town? Also, are there farmacias in town? Thanks.

Just booked short trip for Sept. Now I need to find a place for 3.nights. Ive never used Airbnb. Anyone recommend an Airbnb unit in a desirable location? Or, a motel if that's what you think may be a better option. Thanks.

Just booked short trip for Sept. Now I need to find a place for 3.nights. Ive never used Airbnb. Anyone recommend an Airbnb unit in a desirable location? Or, a motel if that's what you think may be a better option. Thanks.

Hey thanks Rick. Maybe I wasn’t clear about my travel schedule. I was planning on basically doing what you rvcommded. I just booked a quick trip for 3-1/2 days in mid-Sept. I am only going for this trip to scout out areas and then look to see what the units are typically available in that area, and what the leases are like. I have a couple of other questions but I'll post to try he board. Thx.

Hey Rick

I’m new to this site. I’m getting very antsy about retiring to the Chapala area. I’m hoping that I can last 1 more year at work and that will put me at 55. I will have a decent pension in the mid $40k range. I have 2 dogs, one huge and another small. I’m hoping to possibly fly down next month to scout the area out for just 2-3 days. I will eventually make the long drive from SoCal next October. Obviously, I’ll want to have a rental in place prior to that. Can someone tell me the best way to find a nice rental that permits dogs? I,ll likely want a 2 br unit in a desirable location. I imagine that I can get a very decent rental in a good area around other gringos for $1500 (or much less). Should I contact a realty agency or just drive around looking for rental signs? If a realtor is suggested, does anyone have a good recommendation? Also, is it suggested that I visit the chapala society or other group when visiting? I have many more questions but I’ll save them for another posting.. Thanks for any help!