I just recently returned from a trip to Mexico. I know there’s ample coverage in the media regarding safety and difficulties for travelers in Mexico. I am happy to report I experienced nothing of the sort. The people in Mexico are friendly as ever, the food is as delicious as ever and the warmth of the country moved my heart just like every other time if not more. Having said that, I am not going to make a blanket statement regarding safety because things can and do happen. The key is in being aware, not taking chances, and exercising common s...

Great summer reading in Mexico or elsewhere While recently on retreat at Wisdom House, I found and began re-reading a little gem of a book, "Gift from the Sea." In it, Anne Morrow Lindbergh shares her experiences during 2 weeks at a beach cottage. The book captures her musings, prompted by shells found at the shore. For me, the book was just what the doctor ordered. Perfect summer reading. Perfect reminder of the importance of having a room of one's own. Perfect reminder of the wisdom found in Nature. Perfect reminder of why I love Cottage ...

  If you are like me and you love the transformative power of home and garden décor, you probably love the shows on HGTV. One of my favorites is “The Outdoor Room” with Jamie Durie. This Aussie-with-an-attitude is truly gifted. His outdoor and patio makeovers are, for the most part, stunning, surprising and inspiring. Unfortunately, he doesn’t work on properties in Mexico, but I am sure he has influenced many Mexican interior and landscape designers, as well as countless outdoor and patio areas in Merida, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Angel, a...

When it comes to furnishing your Mexican condo or vacation property, you are often faced with the all-inclusive furniture package offer. How do you make the best decision for you and your family? Here are some pros and cons:   Is it easier to say yes to the Mexico developer's furniture package? It may seem an easy choice to tell your agent or condo developer, "Yes, sure, we'll take the furniture package too." However, you will still need to decide on the specific pieces you want and don't want, and likely, negotiate the best deal. Also,...

I’ve known for several weeks. It isn’t that I was trying to keep it a secret, but finally I decided to just own up to it full on: This year, I have a really bad case of spring fever. Months ago, feeling parched for color, for furniture ideas, for bright home accents and accessories, I searched websites, visited stores, even bought seeds so I could start flowers indoors from seedlings. I needed color, inspiration. Color has a great influence on our mood and attitudes. Color is healing; color is vibrant; color can make a huge difference in your M...

Mexicans love the holidays! In December, the whole country is one big feast. If you are traveling to Mexico this month, or will be spending time in your Mexico condo or vacation property, you are in for a real treat. Mexican culture and hospitality are at their very best this month. Here are some ideas to help you join in the celebrations – a-la Mexicana … the Mexican Way; as well as furniture pieces which help you entertain in style and accommodate last-minute guests. From December 2 through December 12, Mexicans celebrate their patron S...

Every year, Mexico hums with excitement, emotion and colorful displays as it celebrates Day of the Dead. In the US and Canada, we are sometimes aware of the custom if we perchance visit Mexico in late October or early November. To the passerby this tradition may seem a bit strange when first encountered, but it is a beautiful feast of love, appreciation, communal healing ... in fact it's the ultimate celebration of life. Mexican Day of the Dead is celebrated the first 2 days of November, but the atmosphere, preparations and shopping begin 2...

In her essay “A Room of One’s Own,” Virginia Woolf advises women to first make sure they have a room of their own before setting out on a writing career. She is referring to having some financial means, some self-reliance in case your views, your work rubs others the wrong way and lands you in the street! When choosing furniture for your Mexican condo, villa or vacation home, it is also good and to remember Ms. Woolf’s advice. Why not ensure you create for yourself a room of one’s own in Mexico? After all, we travel to Mexico for relaxation,...

Hello, Everyone. I just came across this list of questions. The blog's author suggests Mexico future Expats or future Mexico retirees should ask themselves these questions. The list certainly brought a smile to my face. I'm hoping it does the same for you ... a little humor for your day. If interested, here's the link. Here's wishing you some hearty laughs!