Moving to Lake Chapala from, say, Chicago or Denver, will be an adjustment.  One needs to keep in mind that although the area is home to many expatriates, many of whom speak English, it is still Mexico, a third world country.   Life here is v-e-r-y mellow.  Lunch can last for four hours because each plate is prepared separately.  Stores open, maybe, at around 9 a.m. and close at 4 p.m.   Sometimes they have what you need and sometimes not.   Nothing runs on time or according to schedule. If you set-up an appointment, do not expect it to be met.   The entire concept of work, at least in the gringo sense, is a little foreign. And, Lake Chapala itself is more for viewing than using.  Mexican residents fish and swim in it, but most gringos do not find it clean enough, so, ironically, boating and swimming are not popular activities.

Having said that, the people are friendly, and the stress of the modern world just disappears once you arrive.  The weather is beautiful year-round (mid-70s on average and National Geographic has said that the area has the world's second best climate).  Water delivery is available, as are limited internet access, satellite TV and English-language newspapers.  There are some top-notch restaurants (these serve bottled water), a nightclub or two, a few (very cheap) taxis, a nine-hole golf course on the side of a hill (it brings a whole new challenge to the game), stores and markets (serious shopping needs to be done in Guadalajara and there is a van service), banks and hotels.   A terrific shopping experience in Ajijic, though, is Billy Moon's, a wonderful showroom for one of the area's premier artists.   The mix of nationalities, artists and craftsmen makes for a somewhat cosmopolitan ambiance.  

There are numerous doctors and dentists, and they are used to treating gringo patients.  Their offices do not have all the bells and whistles often found back home, but the care is quite good.  A typical doctor's visit will cost $15-$20 ($30 if you need tests), and a dental cleaning will run $15.   For serious health issues, one of Mexico's best hospitals is The Americas Hospital in Guadalajara where many doctors speak English and many U.S. insurance carriers accepted.   For those who receive the FM-3 visa, the Mexican health insurance system (IMSS) is available for about $275 USD a year.  The program is fairly comprehensive and open to all full-time residents, regardless of nationality, after proof of residency in Mexico for one year and passing a prescreening physical and interview. 

As with most foreign retirement destinations, it is strongly suggested that one come visit before buying, and if possible, stay at least six months to get a feel for the area.  Adjusting to public transportation (some a little rickety) and taxis (although many retirees do bring their cars), not needing a Blackberry or a day timer, understanding the manana attitude and learning a little Spanish (when in Rome, so to speak...) can all take some time.   Lake Chapala is not for everyone, but those who choose to make the move seem quite happy and at home.