More in-depth than any publication anywhere, the guide tells you how to do virtually everything: where to get your laundry done, who to call when you lose your keys, where and how to shop for food and other goods, what churches lead services in English, and where to go for salon, spa and barbering services. The table of contents and index are remarkably user-friendly.

Our stalwart team of researchers, many of them raised in the area, went door to door to gather information, much of which had not been written down in any language. Ever. With more than a 1000 listings, the guide is also a directory with sections of Spanish vocabulary to help you communicate while you buy food, shop for jewelry, negotiate car repairs and go about your daily activities.

You’ll find where to get your shoes stitched and where to buy Mexican insurance, as well as the locations and hours of post offices, banks and Internet cafes. You’ll be directed to parks, plazas and markets, and most importantly, we’ll tell you where to tune your dial for all-day Mariachi music! You’ll learn when festivals take place and what they mean. The chapter on sports tells you where to find golf courses, tennis clubs, gyms, thermal baths, exercise groups, tai chi, yoga, bike trails, and hiking routes.

If you’re traveling or thinking of moving to the Lake Chapala area order the ‘bible,’ Mexico’s Lake Chapala & Ajijic: The Insiders Guide by Teresa A. Kendrick. The extremely useful guide helps you plan your visit months before you arrive.

“It's HUGE! At 417 pages it's well worth the price ”
“It’s like having someone take you by the hand..”
“The content is first rate.”
“…an incredibly complete listing of all the services you could ever need”

The guide’s experts give you enough history and cultural advice to help you maneuver socially, and one whole chapter is devoted to sightseeing. Another one gives you a mini-map to the area’s art galleries. Another section discusses folk art and what to look for in terms of quality and technique. Wondering what you’ll do while you’re here? The guide lists the many clubs, activities and volunteer organizations that make up this vibrant international community, including the Lake Chapala Society, the Lakeside Little Theatre, the Music Appreciation Society, the Garden Club, and the Lake Chapala Bridge Club.

Planning a visit or something more permanent? The Guide lists hotels, B&Bs, rental agencies and real estate companies.