Idyllic Bohemian Mexican Village of Yelapa Beckons to Retirees Truly Wanting to Escape Modern Day Life

Cost of Living:  One Third to One Half of the U.S. National Average

As far as finding a place to live, buying real estate is not particularly feasible. In most of Mexico, foreigners can buy property and receive a deed. In Yelapa, however, the land is part of an Indian reservation and so non-natives, if they buy a house, cannot own the land upon which it sits. This makes for a tenuous situation so most gringos lease property. The community bulletin board at the post office is a good place to find non-advertised homes for lease. There are also a number of vacation rental properties in the area; many of these, particularly those on the beach, lease for $75 USD per night and a little higher, but there are very cute, 1 to 2 bedroom homes in the village that lease for $20 to $25 USD per night; some of these even have electricity. 

Further up river, large homes rent for about the same and smaller ones can be found for $15 per night. Prices can, of course, go higher. Most owners are open to discussing long-term leases, and this may bring lower rates for the tenant. Some of these homes are open-air; none are luxurious, but luxury is not what brings people to Yelapa.

It is possible to live here year-round, as some gringos do. Some live on a tourist visa and leave and return to the country every six months; others have an FM-3 visa. The weather is also bearable. Shorts and tee shirts are all the clothing one needs (maybe a light jacket at night). January highs are in the upper 70s and lows are in the 60s. In July and August, highs reach the mid-90s with lows in the 70s. June through September are the rainy months, with rains coming in the mornings. November through May are lovely.

A comment should be made about the local moonshine called Raicilla. It is illegal but tolerated by local police because it is considered a traditional art form. More potent than Tequila, over 100 proof, it will knock out an elephant, not to mention a newbie Yelapa retiree. It is supposed to be an aphrodisiac for women but create impotency in men, creating some interesting scenarios. The hangover it causes has two stages. First you are afraid you might die, and then you are afraid you will not be that lucky. Raicilla should be sampled with caution and a stretcher nearby.

Retiring in such a secluded, rustic spot is not everyone's idea of heaven, but this enchanting oasis is worth consideration by anyone who needs a break from modern life, even if just for six months of the year. Yelapa has not yet been discovered and has none of the touristy aspects that have taken over many of Mexico's once-pristine seaside hamlets. Because it is not easily accessible, chances are good that this charming village and its beautiful beaches will not become spoiled for a long time to come.

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