After retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador, for over a decade, the authors embarked on a two-year adventure to evaluate alternative retirement locales, starting with Mexico. Drawn by its proximity to the U.S., lower cost of living, and agreeable climate, they spent time in Cancún and Playa del Carmen to gauge local life beyond tourist attractions. Their experience highlighted the stark contrast between tourist hotspots and local neighborhoods, offering insights into daily living, local commerce, and the warmth of the communities, ultimately broadening their perspective on retirement destinations.
We found downtown Cancún to be quite different from the miles of fancy resorts, boutiques, and eateries in the hotel zone. As we walked around, we passed numerous modest single-family homes and locally owned shops and restaurants.
Our journey started in Mexico, a popular spot for American retirees in part due to its proximity to the US, generally lower cost of living, and its warm weather.
Cancún has a "hotel zone" along the beach that's miles away from the city itself. Most visitors never leave the vicinity before departing for home.
We were pleasantly surprised by Cancún, with its weather, shops, and vibrant local culture that offered a step away from typical tourist experiences.
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