Things to Know
There are some basic items you should consider when planning your 360 XQMX residency...
SPANISH / ENGLISH: Most restaurants and shop workers in Ajijic speak English, but venture to Chapala, Jocotopec or into Guadalajara and speaking Spanish becomes essential. We recommend you download the app "DeepL". You can use it on your laptop and your cell phone. It is a better option than GoogleTranslate as it is more accurate and versatile. ALSO - Download DuoLingo and try to have some basics mastered, as a courtesy.
SHOES: Please bring comfortable shoes. There is no need for fancy dress shoes or high heels. Most occasions here are casual and relaxed attire is completley acceptable. The streets here are cobblestone and the sidwalks are often a bit wonky. You will want to be wearing something that is comfortable and sturdy.
PHONE SERVICE: Check with your carrier. Most people here communicate with WhatsApp. It is free to use, if your phone is connected to the internet. So, be sure your phone allows you to access the internet while traveling. Any restaurant or shop in town will give you their WIFI code and we also have WIFI at the headquARTers. If you need to communicate upon arrival, WIFI at the airport is FREE... make the calls to your family, or taxi driver or me (to let me know you have arrived)... before you leave the airport.
MOSQUITOES: Some people visiting here are found to be particularly delicious to the local mosquitoes. If you have a favorite brand of spray that you prefer, we recommend you bring it with you. If you have no preference, there are two pharmacies within a few blocks.
OUTLETS: Electrical outlets here are the same as they are in the USA and Canada. No need to bring an adapter.
WATER: Fresh, distilled water will be provided to you in your suite. Bottled water can be found in any quick shop or convenience store. At restaurants, if you ask for water (and/or ice) you can be assured it is distilled and safe to drink.
SOUNDTRACK OF DAILY LIFE IN MEXICO: When traveling, new places sound different, no matter where you are. If you are in NYC, there are garbage trucks, sirens, traffic noise, car alarms, etc. You get used to it, as it is part of the charm of traveling and experiencing something new. Ajijic is the same. We have lovely church bells, parades, roosters, dogs and festivals. Certainly not every day and not all day (or night)... but these things comprise our soundtrack. So, if you are a light sleeper, please bring your earplugs or your noise-canceling earbuds.
“You can’t understand the effect Chapala has until you arrive. Its splashes of color, rhythms and scenic beauty will inspire you. Scribbling away at Café Paris, locals ambling by, a cool glass of beer sweating on the table... I felt like Hemingway.”
SHOPPING: If you enjoy shopping and expect to return to your home with lots of purchases, we recommend bringing an extra suitcase for your return trip. Shipping from Mexico is very expensive and you will appreciate having the additional space to pack your treasures.
ELEVATION: Ajijic is surprisingly at quite an elevation... 5,046 feet / 1,538 meters above sea level. So, if you are coming from a lower elevation, please be sure to drink lots of water, electrolytes and stay hydrated.
PETS: No pets owned by residents are permitted. Except of course for official service pets (please send proof of certification). If you fear you may miss the companionship of your pet, you will find our resident canine, Arthur, is very entertaining. He will enthusiastically greet you every day, will gladly play fetch, is available for walks and is sure to win your heart with his snuggly nature. You will love him.
DEPOSIT / CANCELLATION: A 50% deposit is taken upon booking your reservation. The remainder 50% will be processed one week prior to your arrival. If you cancel 30 days prior to your reservation date, your deposit will be refunded. If you cancel 15 days prior to arrival date, you will receive your deposit less 20% administration fee.