"One of the world’s best expat havens lies just south of the Rio Grande, proving that you don’t have to traverse the globe to find your own piece of paradise. Due to its proximity to the US, the comforts of home are never far away in Mexico. English is widely spoken in expat havens (though Spanish will help tremendously) and US food, products, and sports are also popular.

'In Mexico I can get almost anything I could get back home, between the US chain stores and the local shops and markets plus I can get all the wonderful local specialties,' says Illinois Editor Glynna Prentice. 'The big difference is the prices. Tickets to a top-notch concert may cost me $8 or even less…and I can walk to the concert hall through a beautiful colonial city. I can buy a week’s worth of groceries for $15 or $20, and I don’t know anyone who pays more than a few hundred dollars a year in property taxes.'

Established expat havens in communities such as Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende ease the integration process, while excellent property can still be found for far less than you’d pay in the States. In communities where expats flock, health care is as good as what you’d expect at home, but delivered at a much lower cost, leaving you with plenty of money in your wallet to enjoy the innumerable activities and cultural treasures this large and diverse country has to offer.

From the pristine beaches of Puerto Vallarta and the scenic streets of San Miguel de Allende to the Mayan ruins of the Yucatán, Mexico has it all.

Mexico can cater to a wide range of tastes—whether you’re in search of a quiet getaway or on the hunt for adventure. The country’s large size also affords it a diverse range of climates to accommodate every tolerance of heat, humidity, and rainfall. Good Internet and infrastructure can be found throughout most of the country, and Mexico’s famed cuisine is another much-loved plus. Regular flights to and from the US are also a distinct advantage…or you could drive home if so inclined."