Exploring San Cristobal de las Casas & Sumidero Canyon: Our First Volaris Adventure Joe and I recently bought a Volaris Flight Pass —an incredible deal at just $500 for unlimited last-minute flights. You can book 24 hours in advance for domestic flights in Mexico and three days for international. Since Volaris flies directly from Guadalajara to Charlotte, we knew it would be useful for trips back to SC/NC, but we were also excited to use it for exploring Mexico. For our first adventure, we chose San Cristóbal de las Casas , a charming mountain town in Chiapas just two hours away by plane. First Impressions of San Cristobal After landing, we took a 1.5-hour bus ride into the city, passing incredible mountain and valley views. The town itself is walkable, colorful, and vibrant—many streets are pedestrian-only, canopied with umbrellas or woven textiles, and lined with street art. Markets were another highlight, full of traditional crafts, textiles, and regional products that made every stroll an adventure. Music & Nightlife San Cristóbal has a surprisingly rich live music scene. Two of our favorite venues were: Café de la Revolución – We happened to be there for their 22-year anniversary celebration, complete with live cumbia and salsa bands. Upstairs, people danced the night away, creating an atmosphere that was as lively as it was welcoming. El Paliacate Espacio Cultural – Here we saw the Nox Quartet , a rock-jazz group, and Kostra de Moyera , a femme punk band. The energy of the crowd made me feel like I was back in my 90s college days. Food Highlights The food scene in San Cristóbal is diverse, creative, and delicious. Some standouts included: Sarajevo Café Jardín – A lush, plant-filled restaurant where we tried local entomatadas —tortillas with chicken or panela cheese, Chiapas cheese, avocado, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Cocoliche – Cozy, eclectic spot where I loved the chicken and bacon pasta. Specialty chocolate shops – Chiapas is famous for cacao, so we stocked up on artisanal chocolate, a rare treat to find back home. Excursion to Sumidero Canyon One of the most breathtaking experiences was our trip to Sumidero Canyon (Cañón del Sumidero) , just outside Tuxtla Gutiérrez. The tour began with viewpoints along the rim, where we looked down into the vast canyon as morning clouds lifted. From there, we boarded a boat to cruise the Grijalva River. The ride lasts about 2 hours. Expect heat—bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Wildlife sightings were incredible: crocodiles, monkeys, and countless bird species. Gliding between towering canyon walls was an unforgettable experience—truly one of Mexico’s natural wonders. Final Thoughts By Sunday evening, we were back home in San Antonio, but the whirlwind trip left us hooked. San Cristóbal de las Casas is magical—filled with music, culture, food, and natural beauty. Pairing it with Sumidero Canyon made for the perfect quick getaway. With our Volaris Pass, this is just the beginning. We’ll definitely be back to dive deeper into Chiapas and its incredible culture. https://youtube.com/shorts/iOJGU_edYN0?feature=sharehttps://youtu.be/QlBhRcXnTgghttps://youtube.com/shorts/HiwPy6qUQ2U?feature=share

🌎 Bucket List Mexico: 30+ Must-Do Adventures Across the Country Since we began exploring  Mexico, Joe and I have been discovering just how endlessly diverse and magical this country really is. Every region seems to hold a new adventure. We started putting together a list of experiences we dream of doing across Mexico, both to inspire our own travels and to share ideas with fellow adventurers. This is our Bucket List Mexico, arranged by region, with everything from cultural festivals to wild nature escapes.  Hope you come to love this country as much as we do!   Northwest Mexico Closest airports: Tijuana (TIJ), Los Cabos (SJD), La Paz (LAP), Chihuahua (CUU), Hermosillo (HMO) Wine Tasting in Valle de Guadalupe (TIJ) – Mexico’s premier wine country near Ensenada, known for boutique vineyards, farm-to-table dining, and stunning desert-meets-ocean views. Perfect for a weekend from San Diego/Tijuana. Pet the Gray Whales in Magdalena Bay (LAP) – Between January and March, gray whales migrate to Baja California Sur’s calm lagoons. Here, you can get up close to these gentle giants in a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Whale Watching in Punta de Mita (PVR) – Just north of Puerto Vallarta, the Bay of Banderas offers some of Mexico’s best humpback whale watching from December to March. The charming surf town of Punta de Mita makes a great base. Ride “El Chepe” Train through Copper Canyon (CUU) – Mexico’s only passenger train winds through the vast Copper Canyon, deeper and longer than the Grand Canyon. The ride features dramatic bridges, tunnels, and Tarahumara villages. Sandboarding in the Samalayuca Dunes (CUU) – Just outside Ciudad Juárez, these rolling desert dunes are perfect for adventure seekers. Try sandboarding or ATV tours across the surreal golden landscape. Central Mexico (Mexico City, Puebla, Hidalgo, Querétaro, Guanajuato, Michoacán, San Luis Potosí, Colima) Closest airports: Mexico City (MEX/TLC), Puebla (PBC), León/Guanajuato (BJX), Morelia (MLM), Colima (CLQ), San Luis Potosí (SLP) Ride a Hot Air Balloon Over Teotihuacán (MEX) – At sunrise, hot air balloons drift above the ruins. It’s one of the most magical ways to see Mexico’s ancient history. Cruise the Canals of Xochimilco (MEX) – Brightly painted trajineras (boats) float along pre-Hispanic canals where mariachi music, food, and flowers create a festive scene. Swim in the Thermal Waters of Tolantongo Caves (MEX) – Nestled in the mountains of Hidalgo, these turquoise thermal pools cascade down cliffs, offering both relaxation and adventure in cave rivers. Hike in Itza-Popo National Park (PBC/MEX) – Between Mexico’s two famous volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, hiking trails offer alpine views and crisp mountain air. Experience Día de Muertos or Cervantino Festival in Guanajuato City (BJX) – Guanajuato bursts with art, music, and tradition during the Cervantino Festival and Día de los Muertos. The colorful colonial streets make the celebrations unforgettable. Visit Paricutín Volcano (MLM) – One of the world’s youngest volcanoes, born in a Michoacán cornfield in 1943. You can hike across lava fields to see the church half-buried in ash. Mingle With Monarchs in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (MLM) – Millions of monarch butterflies migrate here each winter, covering the oyamel fir trees in orange and black. A magical natural spectacle. Visit the Surreal Garden of Xilitla (SLP) – Created by artist Edward James, this jungle garden of concrete stairways, arches, and sculptures feels dreamlike and mysterious. Swim in the Huasteca Potosina Waterfalls (SLP) – A lush region of jungle rivers and turquoise cascades. Perfect for canyoning, swimming, or relaxing by natural pools. Hiking to the Top of an Active Volcano in Colima (CLQ) – Volcán de Fuego is Mexico’s most active volcano. Adventurers can hike nearby trails to witness smoke plumes and dramatic landscapes. Whitewater Rafting on the Río Antigua (VER) – Near Jalcomulco, the river offers thrilling rapids surrounded by lush jungle. A top spot for adventure sports in Mexico. Attend a Lucha Libre Match (MEX) – In Mexico City’s iconic Arena México, masked wrestlers put on theatrical, high-energy battles. It’s a mix of sport, drama, and Mexican pop culture. Southern Mexico (Oaxaca & Chiapas) Closest airports: Oaxaca (OAX), Tuxtla Gutiérrez (TGZ), Villahermosa (VSA) Hierve el Agua (OAX) – Petrified waterfalls formed by mineral springs create surreal cliffside pools. You can swim with epic views of the Sierra Madre mountains. Attend Day of the Dead in Oaxaca City (OAX) – Oaxaca is one of the best places to experience Día de Muertos, with elaborate altars, parades, and candlelit cemeteries. Release Baby Turtles in Puerto Escondido (PXM) – Along the Pacific coast, turtle sanctuaries let visitors help hatchlings reach the ocean at sunset. A heartwarming conservation experience. Sleep in the Lacandon Jungle (TGZ/VSA) – Deep in Chiapas, the Lacandon Jungle offers eco-lodges and access to hidden ruins and waterfalls. It’s one of Mexico’s most biodiverse regions. Take a River Trip Through Sumidero Canyon (TGZ) – Towering limestone cliffs rise above the Grijalva River, home to crocodiles, monkeys, and tropical birds. Boat trips reveal the canyon’s dramatic scale. Trekking to Waterfalls in Chiapas (TGZ) – The state is filled with turquoise waterfalls like Agua Azul, Misol-Ha, and El Chiflón. Each offers natural swimming pools in lush jungle settings. Take a Trip to the Jungle of Chiapas (TGZ) – Beyond waterfalls and canyons, Chiapas is full of Mayan ruins, indigenous villages, and wild rainforest to explore. Yucatán Peninsula (Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Campeche) Closest airports: Cancún (CUN), Mérida (MID), Cozumel (CZM), Chetumal (CTM) Sail the Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar (CTM) – This crystal-clear lagoon shines in multiple shades of blue. Sailing, kayaking, and swimming in cenotes make it a paradise for nature lovers. Swim Through Río Secreto in Riviera Maya (CUN) – An underground river with stalactites and clear waters. Guided tours let you explore its hidden caves. Swim in Cenotes (CUN/MID) – The Yucatán Peninsula is dotted with natural sinkholes filled with fresh, turquoise water. Swimming in these jungle pools is a magical experience. Check Out Street Art in Holbox (CUN) – This car-free island is famous for colorful murals, laid-back vibes, and whale

Settling into Life in Mexico Joe and I have officially settled into our new home in San Antonio Tlayacapan, a charming village nestled between Ajijic and Chapala on beautiful Lake Chapala. It’s the perfect balance—immersed in authentic Mexican culture, yet close enough to expat communities for familiar comforts. Everything we need is within walking distance: bustling markets, butcher and seafood shops, welcoming restaurants, a lively town square, and even a brand-new yoga studio with mountain views. This first week has been a whirlwind of music, food, and new experiences. On my first yoga class here, sunlight streamed through floor-to-ceiling windows while the mountains glowed at sunset. As I lay in shavasana, I reflected on all it took to arrive here—downsizing, saying goodbyes, navigating big life transitions—and felt deeply grateful that Joe and I finally made this dream a reality. Music & Dancing Everywhere One of the first things we noticed here is the love of live music and dancing. At Scallions, we saw the Gargamel Band while enjoying a fantastic prawn dish. Before the first song even finished, people of all ages were on their feet dancing with joy. At Bar Zona, a favorite spot of ours, locals and expats alike filled the dance floor, while talented Mexican musicians kept the energy high. We ended the week at El Barco, where Tekila Band played on a rooftop surrounded by trees, filled with laughter with new friends. Everyday Adventures Life here is never dull. Bus rides might bring you rap battles, karaoke singers, and even the bus driver himself entertaining crowded rides. We both picked up used mountain bikes and rode into Ajijic to join a beginners’ pickleball class at Mel’s Social Casa—fun, social, and a great way to stay active. I also tried an improv class at the Ajijic Cultural Center, reconnecting with my love of theater while meeting creative locals and admiring incredible murals and art exhibits. Food Highlights The food scene has already stolen our hearts. Just around the corner, Cocina Los Coyotes serves delicious shrimp-stuffed avocados—fresh and flavorful. At Scallions, the prawn dish paired perfectly with live music. Dining here is always lively, with music, dancing, and a sense of community woven into every experience. Grateful for a New Beginning After one week, we already feel at home in San Antonio. The kindness of people passing on the street, the abundance of fresh food, the energy of the live music scene, and the simple joy of walking everywhere remind us why we chose this life. Every day feels like a gift, and we couldn’t be more excited to continue exploring the beauty and culture of the Lake Chapala region.

Yesterday, Joe and I officially landed in San Antonio, Mexico, beginning an exciting new chapter in our lives. But before we left, we were overwhelmed with love and support. The past few weeks were a whirlwind of hugs, laughter, and heartfelt conversations—each one reminding us just how lucky we are to have such incredible people in our lives. Celebrating in Asheville, Travelers Rest & Beyond Joe and I kicked things off with a farewell party in Asheville, surrounded by friends who have shared so many memories with him over the years. Kathryn and I had our own send-off in the form of a camping trip at Lazy J, complete with one last tubing adventure—floating down the river and soaking in the beauty of the mountains one more time.  We also gathered with friends at The Community Tap in Travelers Rest, another chance to share a drink, swap stories, and celebrate all the years we’ve spent together here. (Thanks and love to Grey Thompson for the great photos!!!) On top of those bigger get-togethers, there were countless smaller goodbyes sprinkled throughout. Feeling the Love Every hug, every kind word, and every smile made us feel deeply loved and appreciated, reminding us how much we will be missed. Many of my closest friends have been in my life for decades and leaving them behind was not easy. These friendships are a part of my foundation, and I will hold onto them always. While moving away from so many dear friends is bittersweet, we’re beyond excited for this next chapter. Mexico promises new adventures, new friendships, and fresh experiences, but our hearts will always be tied to the people and places we’ve left behind. We hope our paths will cross again soon—whether back in the States, somewhere along our travels, or here in our new home. Here’s to new beginnings and to the friendships that last a lifetime.

Exploring the Wonders of Mérida and the Yucatán Our trip to Mérida became even more memorable thanks to visits from two sets of friends—our first guests from home since moving to Mexico. From vibrant cultural festivals and relaxing coastal escapes to awe-inspiring ruins and magical cenotes, every experience was even richer when shared. Mérida Fest: Music, Dance & Tradition One of the highlights of our time in the city was Mérida Fest, a citywide celebration of music, dance, and local culture. We especially enjoyed the Hip Hop Fest, where dancers lit up the stage with incredible energy and passion. In the main square, we caught a reenactment of the ancient Maya ballgame Pok ta Pok, followed by traditional Yucatecan folk dances—a moving tribute to the region’s deep cultural roots. Chelem: Coastal Relaxation and Delicious Botanas With a rental car, we headed to the Yucatán coast for a relaxing day in Chelem, where we found a laid-back beach club and a delicious lunch. The botanas—complimentary snacks served with drinks—were generous and flavorful, the kind of simple delight that makes a beach afternoon feel perfect. Cenote Adventures: Santa Bárbara and Santa Rosa No trip to Yucatán is complete without visiting its stunning cenotes. We spent a magical day at Cenote Santa Bárbara, where we swam in three different types of cenotes: one enclosed, one partially open, and one completely open to the sky. Getting there by bike added to the sense of adventure. We also loved our visit to Cenote Santa Rosa, which features both open and enclosed swimming spots. The peaceful setting, tasty food, refreshing cocktails, and greetings from the friendly dogs at the on-site restaurant made it a truly relaxing experience. Uxmal: A Step Back in Time Exploring the ancient Maya city of Uxmal was one of the most awe-inspiring parts of our journey. Known for its Puuc-style architecture, Uxmal features towering pyramids and expansive ruins that showcase the ingenuity and artistry of the ancient Maya. Climbing the Pyramid of the Magician with our friends made it feel even more meaningful. Kayaking Through Mangroves to See Flamingos Our most breathtaking adventure was kayaking through the mangroves near Sisal with Agua del Mar Ecoturismo. As we paddled quietly through the calm waterways, we spotted hundreds of vibrant pink flamingos in a shimmering lagoon. While most tourists go to Celestún, this alternative was peaceful and intimate—almost no other boats in sight—just the two of us and a spectacular show of nature. A Destination Full of Discovery Mérida and the Yucatán offered a beautiful blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Experiencing it all with friends made every discovery sweeter and every memory stronger. From ancient ruins and hidden cenotes to pink flamingos and Yucatecan dances, this region continues to surprise and inspire. We can’t wait to return. Cenote Santa Rosa Merida Fest Circus Merida Hip Hop Fest Merida Hip Hop Fest Mural Merida Mexico Frida Kahlo Mural Merida Mexico Merida Traditional Yucatecan folk dances Merida Mexico Marquesitas Merida Mexico Merida Mayan ballgame Pok ta Pok Merida Mayan ballgame Pok ta Pok Chelem Beach Club Mexico Botanas Chelem Mexico Sisal Flamingos Mexico Sisal Flamingos Mexico Sisal Flamingos Mexico Sisal Flamingos Mexico through the Mangroves Sisal Flamingos Tour Mexico Mayan Ruins of Uxmal Mexico Mayan Ruins of Uxmal Mexico Mayan Ruins of Uxmal Mexico Cenote Santa Bárbara Mexico Cenote Santa Bárbara Mexico https://youtube.com/shorts/WgIIDgTa2o0https://youtube.com/shorts/5TsbEZPgHbEhttps://youtu.be/3-Q_j_JvikA

Exploring Guadalajara: Art, Culture, and Culinary Delights Our time in Guadalajara—both before and after housesitting in Lake Chapala—was a vibrant blend of art, history, cuisine, and music. From iconic murals to colorful markets and unforgettable flavors, the city surprised and delighted us at every turn. Street Art and Murals: A Citywide Canvas Guadalajara’s neighborhoods are filled with bold, expressive street art that turns everyday strolls into gallery walks. One of the most powerful experiences was viewing the murals of José Clemente Orozco at Hospicio Cabañas. Standing beneath the swirling, larger-than-life imagery in the chapel was awe-inspiring—a profound testament to Orozco’s artistic genius. Tlaquepaque: Cobblestone Streets and Artisanal Treasures Just outside the city, Tlaquepaque offered a magical escape. With its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and vibrant arts scene, it felt like stepping into a living postcard. Independencia Street was lined with galleries and boutiques featuring handcrafted ceramics, blown glass, and textiles—perfect for soaking in the region’s rich artistic traditions. Sergio Bustamante Gallery: Whimsy and Surrealism One of our favorite stops was the Sergio Bustamante Gallery, where we explored his surreal sculptures and signature whimsical figures. With their elongated features and celestial motifs, each piece felt like it belonged in a dream. The craftsmanship was stunning, and each sculpture seemed to tell a story of wonder and imagination. Markets: Vibrant, Busy, and Full of Flavor Guadalajara’s markets were full of life. From fresh produce to handmade goods, every stall was bursting with color, energy, and local flavor. The sensory experience—aromas of spices, colorful fruits, and the chatter of vendors—made wandering the markets a highlight of our visit. MUSA: A Hub for Mexican Art We spent an afternoon at MUSA, the Museum of the Arts at the University of Guadalajara, where rotating exhibitions featured both contemporary and classical pieces. From immersive installations to striking portraits, the museum reflected the creative spirit of Guadalajara and the broader Mexican art world. Culinary Highlights: From Street Eats to Fine Dining No trip to Guadalajara would be complete without sampling tortas ahogadas, the city’s famous spicy, sauce-drenched pork sandwiches. Messy, bold, and delicious, they’re a local must-try. One of our favorite meals was at Birriería Las 9 Esquinas, where we savored deeply flavored birria alongside a live mariachi performance—an unforgettable Jalisco tradition. We also loved sipping mezcal cocktails at El Habanero Negro, where inventive combinations of smoky spirits and fresh ingredients made every drink a mini adventure. Throughout the city, we discovered beautifully designed restaurants that blended flavor and artistry. Each meal felt like an extension of the city’s vibrant cultural scene, from artful plating to lush interiors. A City Worth Returning To From its historic murals and surreal sculptures to its dynamic music and culinary traditions, Guadalajara was a feast for the senses. Experiencing it before and after our time in Lake Chapala gave us the chance to slow down and appreciate all it has to offer. We’re already looking forward to returning and diving even deeper into this rich and inspiring city. murals of José Clemente Orozco at Hospicio Cabañas MUSA Museum of the Arts MUSA Museum of the Arts MUSA Museum of the Arts MUSA Museum of the Arts Guadaljara Mexico Frida Kahlo Mural Guadaljara Mexico Turron Rosa Candy Guadaljara Mexico Tlaquepaque Tlaquepaque Mexico Tlaquepaque Mexico Tlaquepaque Mexico Sergio Bustamante Gallery Guadaljara Market Mercado Guadalajara Mexico Mariachi Guadalajara Mexico Guadalajara Street Art Guadalajara Street Art https://youtube.com/shorts/ONhAr0FcIxMhttps://youtube.com/shorts/9Ps6HAn-pds

Finding Home in Lake Chapala For several years, Joe and I have been exploring Mexico, searching for the perfect place to settle. We’ve loved so many places, but none had quite felt like home—until now. When we accepted a housesitting opportunity in Lake Chapala, we didn’t expect to fall in love with the region.  In fact, we expected to check it off our list! We were excited to care for four sweet dogs—Polo, Dot, Lola, and Frida—but we had no idea this stay would become the place we would decide to soon move to. From the moment we arrived, Lake Chapala started checking all the boxes. The people are genuinely warm and welcoming—they talk to you, invite you in, and dance freely. The town is vibrant yet laid-back, with a stunning lakeside setting that adds to its charm. The location is perfect—close to Guadalajara’s international airport and bustling city, with beaches just a few hours away by car or a quick flight. It’s a place where we can enjoy a slower pace but still have easy access to everything we need. Beyond that, the affordability is unbeatable. Fresh fruit and vegetables are abundant, local markets thrive, and the overall cost of living is far lower than many other places we’ve considered. Add in the walkability, bike-friendly streets, reliable public transportation, and year-round perfect weather, and it’s hard to imagine a better fit. What started as a short-term housesit turned into something much bigger—we’ve found our home. By the end of the year, we’ll be making it official. Lake Chapala is where we belong. Ajijic Mexico Ajijic Mexico Ajijic Mexico Ajijic Mexico Ajijic Mexico Ajijic Mexico Ajijic Mexico Ajijic Mexico Lake Chapala Mexico Lake Chapala Mexico Lake Chapala Mexico Jojotepec Lake Chapala Jojotepec Lake Chapala Jojotepec Lake Chapala Lake Chapala Mexico Lake Chapala Mexico Lake Chapala Mexico