‘Voluntary simplicity’, as sustainable living is sometimes referred to, is not about moving back into caves. It is not about giving up innovation or technology; nor is it about living in poverty. It is about living materially simply and taking a sincere responsibility for how we lead our lives and implement our lifestyles, taking into account our consumption and recycling practises; and how we may best plough back into our local communities and into the environments which sustain our existence.
We predict that Mexico will become one of the world’s top destinations for people seeking ways and means to simplify their lives and lifestyles, moving here to live well, but live simply.
I couldn’t agree more with the above excerpt from Sustainable Living in Mexico. The entry talks about hotspots in Mexico where eco-conscious North Americans plan to retire or to work and live. Life is simpler here, and many are finding that less is more. I count myself among them.
Nearly four years I have lived here in Morelia. Not very rural in this state capitol city with a population of around a million people but you can still find riders on horseback even in neighborhoods inside the beltway.
Nearby Patzcuaro is much smaller than Morelia and a very nice place to live but lacks the many of the activities, nightlife, and large US-name department stores found here.
I took early retirement in my early fifties with a small pension that permits me to live quite well here. Food, rent, utilities are very inexpensive. A consultation with a doctor costs around two dollars and I feel I am getting more personalized attentionhere than in the US. Often less than five dollars will cover the cost of the doctor visit and your prescription.
The weather is very mild year-around and some activity is going on nearly every day. Public transportation is inexpensive and very readily available but I love that I can walk in a few minutes to nearly everything I want to do.
The downtown is a cultural center with a music conservatory, universities, and a number of museums that put on special exhibits regularly. The city puts on events in the plazas often with music and dancing. It’s true to say never a dull moment, unless you want it that way, and then you can find the lifestyle very relaxing.
I love it here. I have no intention, no desire to go back to live in the US.