Just one hour south of any major cities of Guadalajara lies the village of Ajijic (pronouced ah-hee-heek) in Lake Chapala.  The landscape is interesting as it shows modern technology existing beside a 16th century infrastructure and lifestyle.  Take for example Casa del Sol Bed & Breakfast Inn just two blocks away from the village zocalo or square. It offers guests every modern amenities available but in a grand colonial mexican house setting that was built in the 1500s.

Visiting the Inn would feel like visiting history and there sure would be a lot of history behind the tall , thick walls of Casa del Sol.

Ajijic

Photo from Ajijicparadise.com

Ajijic is a small town in the mexican state of Jalisco. The beautiful settlement is a part of the municipality of Chapala, which is located on a large plateau home to the Sierra Madre mountain range.

Ajijic is a wonderful vantage point from which you can admire the spectacular scenes, and the soothing calm of Lake Chapala, to the north of which the town lies.

With about 15000 inhabitants, and a climate that is moderate the whole year around, Ajijic is one of the last places on earth where the touch of humanity has not spoiled the pristine beauty of the environment.

It is expected that the population of Ajijic will keep swelling until the influx of baby boomers from US and Canada subsides.

Photo from www.alwaysonvacation.com

View from the island

(CC photo by Christian Fierro courtesy of Flickr)

To look at the stunning beauty of Mezcala Island it is hard to perceive the bloody battle fronts fought here during the mexican War of Independence from Spain. Today, the area is frequently visited by tourists, photographers and historians who wish to indulge in the sites and sounds of days gone by. The gorgeous weather is never a hindrance with beautiful sunshine and a temperate climate perfect for outdoor adventures.

Lake Chapala sunset

(CC photo by Derek Rogerson courtesy of Flickr)

It was believed that hieroglyphics and structures could once be found on the island, but construction has destroyed any evidence of indigenous people. Ruins of an old fort now remain and visitors spend hours touring the area and taking in the gorgeous island views.

Ruins

(CC photo by Supernova.gdl.mx courtesy of Flickr)

It is quite a popular vacation spot and has even become the “it” place for expatriates to retire. The weather is gorgeous and aquatic sports fun offers year-round excitement. The area was immortalized in “the Plumed Serpent” by D.H. Lawrence. Lawrence fell in love with the area and revealed that some of his happiest times were spent in mexico. No surprise there. With the way the sun plays off the lake waves it is an entirely different haven throughout the various parts of the day.

Chapala paradise

(CC photo by Glenn E. Wilson courtesy of Flickr)

Mezcala Island is located on Chapala Lake in a tectonic basin southeast of Guadalajara. It is Mexico’s largest lake and rests on the border between Jalisco and Michoacan. Recently it has become the topic of concern for environmentalists who worry about the effects of over-exploitation of the area. Many migratory birds call the lake home, including the White Pelican. While efforts are being made to save the area, the popular eco-tourism trade is making the place favorable for those wanting to enjoy Mexico’s beauty and make a positive change in the environment. It is the perfect place to witness nature’s beauty and embrace Mexico’s vibrant past.

Chapala Lake it is about 50 miles long and 10 miles wide, and it is located in Jalisco and Michoacan states. It is the largest lake in mexico and set in a depression on the central plateau. Lake Chapala is fed by the lerma river, which flows out by the northeastern corner. It is a popular scenic Resort. Since the early 1950s the waters have been resending at an alarming rate and the lake is rapidly becoming choked with water hyacinths, studies have been initiated to determinate an effective conservation program.

Lake Chapala is important economically for tourism, recreation and fishing. The Lake also supports around 80 species of migratory birds and a few endemic species found only in this area. With its pleasant climate and delightful setting in a circle of low, sparsely vegetated hill, the lake has attracted many American and Canadians expatriates, also has become a very desirable place for retirees, those waiting to escape aspects of home such as the winter weather, and those who desire to live and work in Mexico.

Although the water can occasionally become  very polluted, making swimming impossible, a rich variety of water-sports can usually be enjoyed. Carp, mojarra, catfish, and withe fish are among the edible fish found, in the lake. The activities that you can enjoy in Chapala lake are, boating, sailing, water craft activities, fishing and swimming. But you do not have to be an active or sports-minded person to enjoy chapala because you will also find numerous restaurants, open-air cafes, and ice-cream parlors in which to spend some relaxing time in company of your family or friends.

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Many former residents of the United States and Canada have made their home in the tiny town of Ajijic in mexico. Ajijic is a town of about 15,000 people that is located on Lake Chapala. With moderate temperatures all year long and a low cost of living, people from across North America come to this city to make their new home.

Ajijic is also becoming popular as a tourist destination. There are quite a few bed and breakfast inns in the area, however Casita Montana is routinely voted as the best in the area. Casita Montana is conveniently located adjacent to Lake Chapala and a number of stores and restaurants in the neighborhood.

Individual rooms and suites are available at Casita Montana. Included in your daily room rate is a free breakfast, cable television, internet access and free phone calls. There is also a spa and massage room located on the premises.

Casita Montana is perfect for a weekend getaway with your significant other, a family vacation or even a group vacation. The group vacation can be anything from a business meeting to a wedding. For more information on Casita Montana, check out there website at CasitaMontana.com.

Photo credit: Flickr