A Publication By: The Mexico Real Estate Guide

Millions of Canadians and Americans are choosing Mexico for their vacation home away from home. They’re taking advantage of the benefits of Mexico…and why not? It’s easy to be drawn to the great weather, friendly people, low cost of living, incredible beaches, rich culture and great investment opportunities.

The Mexican lifestyle is amazing. Imagine colorful community fiestas, long walks on the beach, warm sunny days all year long, inexpensive restaurants, healthy and cost-effective lifestyle choices and convenient access to affordable medical care.

Vivo Resorts created this guide to outline how simple investing in Mexico real estate can be. Not only should your vacation property increase in value over time, you will also have an incredible getaway for your family. You can also transition your property from vacation home to full-time retirement home. Enjoy cash flow from your investment through Vivo’s fully managed rental program. Enjoy this valuable report, and come and join us at Vivo!

Vivo Resorts - The Mexico Real Estate Guide Page 1 of 19 Table of Contents

Mexico Overview 1 Real Estate Investment 2 Where to Buy Beachfront Real Estate in Mexico 3 Buying Mexico Real Estate 4 Mexican Real Estate Ownership 5 Taxes in Mexico 6 Financial Matters 7 Cost of Living in Mexico 8 Non-Immigrant Visa Requirements 9 Become a Mexican Citizen 10 Moving to Mexico 11 Making Money in Mexico 12 Seniors Benefits in Mexico 13 Mexico Health Care 14 Volunteering in Mexico 15 Lifestyle Considerations 16 Is Mexico Safe? 17 Embassies 18

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1. Mexico Overview

Mexico is a vibrant and growing country. From your private vacation home at Vivo Resorts, you can take excursions and explore the country's amazing array of cultural, historical and ecological points of interest. Mexico is one of only 17 nations considered to be mega-diverse. Seventy percent of the world's plant and animal species originate from these countries, and they are some of the world's most special places.

Globally, Mexico is one of the top 10 international Some fast facts about the Mexican tourists destinations. Tourism is the number two economy: contributor to the Mexican national GDP. Mexico is the number one international vacation Mexico exports more manufactured products destination for Americans and the number two than all other countries in Latin America international vacation destination for Canadians. combined. The relevance of this for those looking to buy property and live in Mexico, not just vacation The domestic market of Mexico includes 107 there, is that the Mexican government has placed million consumers. a concerted effort on increasing tourism and 1 of every 7 cars sold in the United States is foreign investment by improving infrastructure. made in Mexico Better roads, more hospitals, airports and 28% of the population is under the age of 15 beautification projects benefits everyone. Mexico is a world leader in aerospace The Mexican economy: according to the companies International Monetary Fund's 2012 world Mexico is the leading vegetable exporter in economic rankings based on GDP by Purchasing the Americas Power Parity, Mexico is the 11th largest economy in the world (compared to Canada, which sits in Mexico is a leader in smart phone production the 13th spot.) In 2012, Mexico’s 3.8% GDP Mexico generates a full 20% of its energy growth outpaced both the US (2.2%) and Canada from renewable sources, more than Canada (1.9%). or the US.

Location: Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico between Belize and the U.S., and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and the U.S.

Area: 758,449 square miles (1,964,375 square kilometers). Slightly less than three times the size of Texas.

Population: 113,724,226 (July 2011 est.)

Capital: Mexico City

Climate: Varies from tropical to desert.

Government: Federal republic

Language: Spanish 92.7%, Spanish & indigenous languages 5.7%, indigenous only 0.8%, unspecified 0.8%; Note: Indigenous languages include various Mayan, Nahuatl, and other regional languages (2005).

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Religion: Roman Catholic 76.5%, Protestant 6.3% (Pentecostal 1.4%, Jehovah’s Witnesses 1.1%, other 3.8%), other 0.3%, unspecified 13.8%, none 3.1% (2000 census).

Electricity: Electrical outlets in Mexico are the same as in Canada & the U.S. and run on the same 60-cycle, 110-volt system.

Telephone & Internet systems: Fixed-line telephone systems are less common in many areas, availability of cellular communications is prevalent throughout Mexico with a high level of service. Wireless internet access is also widely available.

Calling Mexico from Canada/US: Dial 011+52+area code and telephone number Note: when calling a Mexican cellular telephone number: Dial 011+52+1+area code and telephone number.

Cell phones users: 91.363 million (2010)

Internet users: 31.02 million (2009)

Internet country code:.mx

2. Real Estate Investment

Vacation homes have been known for centuries as a place to rest, recuperate and recover strength. The rise in popularity of vacation or recreational real estate was borne out of a desire to escape to a better climate and regain perspective, and over time these lifestyle-improving properties have also turned into some of the best financial investments the owners had ever made.

Buying a property that helps improve your overall health and way of living that at the same time as being an excellent financial decision makes your vacation home an investment in your lifestyle, and your portfolio.

Permanent vacation homes and rental properties increase in value over time, and not only does your investment provide a place where you can decompress from your regular day-to-day life, but it's also a long- term source of revenue for your family and your future family.

Purchasing beachfront property is a sound investment decision. Buying early in a real estate market's development cycle serves to increase the opportunity for greater long-term real estate value appreciation. You will never have to worry about finding a vacation destination for the whole family again, and you can also generate cash flow from renting during time away from your property such as with Vivo's Rental & Exchange program.

Rising values for beachfront real estate are driven by static supply and increasing demand. The population of North American seniors is rising due to the baby boom, and many are using their retirement money to invest in real estate. Baby boomers are the largest and most influential demographic of all time.

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According to a CNN study, 49% of all baby boomers said their ideal retirement location would be the beach. Conservative estimates predict a 400% increase in U.S. & Canadian ownership of Mexican property within a decade. A change of this magnitude will undoubtedly drive beachfront values much higher.

Timing your real estate investment is a critical element for success. Buying in an area that is already highly developed usually means supply has caught up with purchaser demand. At this point the rate of value appreciation begins to slow and investing at this stage means you’re likely getting in too late. The biggest gains have typically already been realized by others.

Savvy investors look for a real estate opportunity with the optimal investment timing. This “sweet spot” occurs in markets where immediate and rapid increases in value are currently being realized. These real estate markets exhibit activity that is not limited to just residential development, but also include development and improvements in public infrastructure and retail.

3. Where to Buy Beachfront Real Estate in Mexico

Puerto Escondido

Puerto, as the locals call it, is not your typical package holiday destination. This is an emerging area of Mexico that so far has remained relatively untouched by large scale development. There are no mega-all inclusive resorts here, and it’s a laid back beach town with soul.

Mother Nature has been very kind to this area of Mexico, providing tremendous ecological diversity and natural beauty. It is regarded as one of the world’s top surf destinations, and it was the surfers that put it on the tourist map. Its appeal has broadened and real estate investors from all over the world are showing interest in Puerto.

For flight access, there are two airport options. The closest is Puerto Escondido airport, which is now being served by three domestic airlines with daily flights to Mexico City and Oaxaca City.

The second option is Huatulco airport, located just 60 miles away, and which receives multiple daily flights from Mexico City and also direct flights from many Canadian cities and the US as well.

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Puerto has an ideal climate. There are warm temperatures year round and nearly no rain from November to April each year. Warm ocean water and low humidity is what you’ll find. It is also located in one of Mexico’s low-risk areas for hurricanes, making this a destination that is very hard to beat.

Puerto is located in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico’s most culturally diverse and 5th largest state.

Oaxaca offers the best of Mexico, both old and new. Once isolated and little visited, this Mexican state is now renowned by tourists and expats as Mexico’s gateway to an abundance of both colonial history and rich cultural heritage.

The state capital, Oaxaca City, is considered one of Mexico’s best examples of a colonial city. The United Nations recognized Oaxaca City’s unique gifts by naming it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the European influence in this seemingly untouched part of Mexico while shopping for unique traditional arts & crafts. Take part in one of many cultural fiestas held throughout the year. For those that like to explore with their tastebuds, Oaxacan cuisine is revered in Mexico and is a delicious gift to the world.

When translated, the name Puerto Escondido means "hidden port". The town was established as a shipping port for coffee in 1928, and residents Other reasons for considering Puerto: still grow coffee beans in the nearby mountains today. The area has evolved from its shipping port It’s a safe and family friendly destination, far roots, and over the years tourism and other removed from the crime featured in many industries have added to the local economy. media reports. Fishing and farming still comprise an important The beaches are magnificent and some of part of the economic mix of Puerto, which has now the finest you’ll find anywhere in the world. grown to a thriving city of 50,000. It’s an authentic destination with cultural diversity In Puerto you’ll find an incredible array of locally grown organic fruits and vegetables, plus locally In Puerto, you’ll be able to live a better lifestyle raised chicken, beef and pork. Add to this the at a lower cost. Even when compared to most abundance of seafood available and you have all other areas of Mexico, your day to day costs of the staples for very healthy living. living are less expensive. Restaurants, spas, groceries, medical expenses, and cleaning, A diet of natural whole foods this fresh, in most cooking and gardening helpers are all very North American cities, would come at a very high reasonably priced. price. We hear people talk about the 100 mile diet - in Puerto it can literally be a 20 mile diet at a Beachfront real estate in Puerto provides great mere fraction of the cost you’d pay at home. value. This is quite evident when you compare it Find locally-grown products at the bustling daily to other popular resort destinations.Real estate market in Puerto, where you’ll also find investors looking for a prime opportunity with restaurants, local crafts and more. the right timing are finding Puerto Escondido is the solution.

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4. Buying Real Estate

Purchasing Procedure

Step 1: Submit an offer to purchase.

This is usually done in the form of a “Purchase and Sale Agreement”.

Step 2: Set aside approximately 10% earnest money to be held in trust.

Once your offer is accepted in writing, you’ll need to put a certain amount (approximately 10%) of the purchase price aside as earnest money in trust with a third party while you conduct your due diligence. Step 4: Purchase Payments. Step 3: Due Diligence. Once you have the necessary assurances from Ensure the seller provides you with enough your attorney, the Purchase and Sale Agreement can be finalized with the issuance of a second time to have your lawyer review the payment. In the case of a “pre-construction” Purchase and Sale Agreement and all property (ie: property that is not yet ready to associated legal documents from the seller. move into) you will need to establish a deposit schedule with the vendor. If the property is ready If you’re buying a condo, you’ll want to for occupancy at this time you will need to pay in review the Condo bylaws and Rules and full. Then you will be ready to close on the property. Regulations too. Step 5: The Notario registers your ownership.

Though you’ll have a copy of all the paperwork associated with the property, the transaction isn’t complete until the Notario (Governor appointed attorney) registers your deed with the land registry office. The Notario will also apply for your permit with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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5. Mexican Real Estate Ownership by Canadians & Americans

Foreigners can legally own property in Mexico, and the Mexican legal system protects the rights of foreign property owners. That means you can enjoy owning the kinds of property in Mexico that might be priced out of your budget at home in Canada or the U.S., especially beachfront property.

In Mexico, a foreigner can not hold a deed to a property when the property is located in the restricted zone: 50 kilometers (32 miles) from the shoreline or 100 kilometers (62.5 miles) from the borders. For residential property purchases in the restricted zone, the purchaser can choose between two methods to obtain the property: through a Bank Trust known in Mexico as a Fideicomiso, or through a Corporate Trust.

Both the Fideicomiso and the Corporate Trust provide a description of the property to be placed in trust, the use for which it is intended, the value, and personal identification of each of the beneficiaries. Once granted, the notary draws up the trust document, which is notarized and recorded.

The Notario prepares the deed for the beneficiary and the certificate is recorded and registered. The foreign owner is granted an Individual Certified Deed granting exclusive and full possession rights, as a beneficiary of the deed, the foreign owner has the right to use, improve, lease, sell, and will the property.

When the owner dies, the owners' estate becomes the beneficiary. A second beneficiary to the trust can also be named through a Mexican will. Co-owners can be listed on a deed to avoid probate. A deed issued through a corporate trust is irrevocable and lasts indefinitely with no expiration.

Closing Costs:

When using the Corporate Trust method, the closing cost to the purchaser is typically $4,000-$5,000 US Dollars.

Closing costs with the Fideicomiso are generally in the range of 7-10% of the purchase price. With a Fideicomiso there is also an annual fee - usually in the range of $500.

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6. Taxes in Mexico

As an expat in Mexico, the taxes you’ll pay depend in part on your situation. If you own property in Mexico you’ll have to pay real estate taxes. If you rent out that property or own a business, have a job, or have interest-bearing bank accounts, you’ll owe income tax.

It’s a good idea to meet with an international tax specialist before you move to Mexico; he or she can advise you on how to best minimize your tax obligations, especially if you have significant assets in both Mexico and your home country. If you do business in Mexico, you’ll also want a good tax advisor there.

Income tax: You will owe income tax in Mexico if you hold a job, run a business, rent out a property you own, or hold an interest-bearing bank account or security in Mexico. In most cases you will need to file a Mexican tax return.

Property taxes: There are two types of tax to be aware of when buying and maintaining residential property in Mexico:

1. A 3% acquisition tax when you buy the property with a Fideicomiso. This tax is not payable when purchasing with a Corporate Trust.

2. Annual property taxes. These are included in Vivo Resorts' condo fees.

Sales tax: Mexico has a Value Added Tax (VAT) that is built into the price of most day-to-day items, so generally the amount you see on the price tag is what you pay.

7. Financial Matters

Currency: The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXN). Item costs are denoted using the same $ symbol as in Canada and the U.S.

Opening a bank account: Some expats never bother opening a bank account in Mexico—they just use credit cards or ATM cards from their home country account to make purchases and get cash. A local account can be handy, however: especially if you need to write checks. Major banks with branches all over the country include Banamex, Bancomer, Banco Santander Serfín, HSBC, and ScotiaBank.

You’ll be asked to show your passport (and residence visa if you have one) to open a bank account. You’ll likely also have to show proof that you have a permanent address in Mexico, such as a telephone or electricity bill in your name.

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8. Cost of Living: Live Better on Less in Mexico

You can expect a higher quality of life in Mexico. It’s easier to live healthy and slow down your pace of life. Nearly all of your day to day costs are lower in Mexico, so you really can live better on less money.

Goods & services that you might never dream of being able to afford at home can be cost effective in Mexico. Perhaps you’d like a full time maid, a cook or a gardener (or all three)! It’s all possible and surprisingly affordable.

Some examples:

For as low at $400 to $500 per month you can hire a full time worker, who will cook, clean and do your gardening for 45 hours a week. Dining out in Puerto Escondido can cost a fraction of what you pay at home. For $20 per person you can have a wonderful meal including wine at the finest beachfront restaurants, and for less than $7 per person you can sample some excellent traditional Oaxacan restaurants Gas: $0.85/Litre or less is common One hour private massage in your home (that’s right, the masseuse comes to you!): $45 12-pack of cerveza: $7.50

9. Non-Immigrant Visa Requirements

Visitors from the United States and Canada do not require a special visa to enter Mexico for tourism if your stay will not exceed 180 days. You do require a Visitor or ‘Visitante’ Permit to be filled out and stamped at your port of entry, however. Called a Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM), if crossing by land, retrieve your FMM at the immigration booth located at the border crossing. If flying into the country, FMMs are issued by airlines and are also available at ports of entry. If your stay lasts longer than 180 days you may be able to have your tourist card extended under special circumstances at a local immigration office, but do not wait until the last minute. You will likely be expelled from the country if your visa has expired.

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If travelling with children, you will be required to present the following at the border: A valid passport for each child Each child's complete birth certificate. A letter of authorization signed by a notary for children travelling with persons other than their parents or only one parent. This allows adults to be able to request medical treatment for a child without their parents or with only one parent present.

10. Become a Mexican Citizen

Those who choose to purchase real estate in Temporary Resident Visa Mexico may wish to retire permanently in the country and gain citizenship. Citizenship offers First, those seeking Mexican citizenship must many long-term advantages, including the right to obtain what is known as a Temporary vote and the ability to bypass bank trust Resident Visa, which is applicable for more requirements when purchasing property. The than six months but not more than four years. government of Mexico permits naturalized citizens After four years you are able to apply for a to retain citizenship in their country of origin, but there are restrictions on holding simultaneous Permanent Resident Immigration Visa. The citizenships in three or more countries. Temporary Resident Visa gives non- immigrant temporary residency status to the Following are some of the documents required by holder and can be issued for 1, 2, 3 or 4 the Mexican authorities for the issuance of a years. It provides work permissions and resident visa: allows for unlimited entries to and exits from Mexico. A valid Canadian passport You must apply for a temporary resident visa Birth certificate before you arrive in Mexico by visiting your RCMP certificate of no criminal record local Mexican consulate. Officials will process Bank records indicating source of income your application and, if accepted, you will be given documentation indicating your pre- Two passport-sized photographs approval. When you arrive in Mexico, take Most documents issued in the Unites States your paperwork to a local immigration center and Canada to be used in Mexico should be and your official visa will be issued to you. notarized at a Mexican Embassy or Consulate To qualify for a temporary resident visa, you in your country of origin first. must be able to prove you have enough finances to support your stay, so bring bank Before you can obtain your Mexican citizenship, statements with you. you must hold permanent resident status for an extended period of time. This is typically a two- The Temporary Resident Visa cannot be step process. issued in Mexico unless you are exchanging an existing FM-3 visa.

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Permanent Resident Immigration Visas

In order to apply to become a Mexican citizen, you must hold permanent resident status. However, if you marry a Mexican national, the citizenship process can be expedited to some degree. Permanent Resident Visas are issued to foreign nationals who have the intention of living in Mexico for long periods of time (over six months) AND who intend to seek permanent residency in Mexico. There are certain parameters that must be met by applicants, including:

You must have held a Temporary Resident Visa for four years, or two years if you legally married to a Mexican resident, or You must have certain family connections in Mexico, or You must apply for retirement status and be able to prove you have sufficient monthly income (or substantial assets) to support yourself, or You must meet a minimum score under the Mexican Points System, or You must be granted residency on humanitarian grounds.

Applying for Mexican citizenship requires you to pass an examination, which tests your knowledge of Mexican history, government, laws and culture. It is a multiple-choice exam, and you'll need a basic to intermediate grasp of Spanish in order to pass. While the ability to speak fluent Spanish is not a strict requirement for Mexican citizenship, you should note that you want to speak the language in order to fully participate in the nation's culture.

In certain circumstances, it is possible to become a permanent resident without holding temporary resident status for a full four years. Examples include the following:

Retirees There is a special status for retirees known as "retirement status," which grants immediate permanent residency to people whose net worth or monthly income meets certain minimum requirements. If you are not in the country to start a business and your money can be determined to come from elsewhere (such as a retirement or pension plan), you may be able to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa before four years as a Temporary Resident are complete. Investors You may apply for a Permanent Resident Visa if you plan to invest in Mexican industry or services. The total investment must meet certain minimum requirements.

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Professionals If you are a professional with specific skills or have been invited to Mexico to perform academic or scientific research, visit the Mexican Consulate in your country of origin and bring your education and employment certificates. You may apply for a Permanent Resident Visa if you meet certain Point Score requirements.

Technical or Scientific Professions If your company is looking at opening an office or factory in Mexico, representatives may enter to manage the company’s operations for the long-term with Permanent Resident Visas. Your company and you will also need to meet the minimum Point Score requirements to be accepted. Artists and Athletes Artists and athletes who wish to stay in Mexico for the long-term may also apply for a Permanent Resident Visa. Entry is determined by the Interior Ministry, and each case is examined individually. Immigration Lawyers To help expedite your immigration process, you may wish to hire a local immigration lawyer to assist with the paperwork on your behalf. This is especially beneficial if you are unsure what type of visa is best for you and your needs, and if your Spanish is not strong enough for you to feel comfortable signing documents. Mexico has recently undergone sweeping changes to their immigration policies, and those that currently have visas that may need to be exchanged (such as the FM-2 visa) should also speak with an immigration lawyer. For complete information on all kinds of Mexican visas available, contact an immigration lawyer or download the Mexico Immigration Guide eBook.

11. Moving To Mexico

Moving your household goods: Think carefully about whether you really want to move your household goods to Mexico. You can generally buy everything you’ll need in Mexico and save yourself time and possibly money. What’s more, if you’ll be living at the beach, you’ll most likely want a different type of furniture than what you have in your current home.

Moving with your pets: It is easy to take your pets to Mexico... there is no quarantine requirement. Officially, within 10 days of your departure to Mexico if you’re driving or five days if you’re flying (check with your airline for the latest time limit), take your pet to your local veterinarian and get an inter-state health certificate confirming that your pet is healthy and up to date with its vaccinations and immunizations. Keep this certificate handy when you go through Mexican Customs.

Firearms: There are severe penalties for possessing firearms in Mexico. Contact your nearest Mexican consulate in the U.S. before attempting to import weapons into Mexico or purchase any while in Mexico. Failure to do so will result in stiff fines and/or jail time.

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12. Making Money in Mexico

Setting up your own business

If you intend to set up a business in Mexico, you’ll need a work visa such as a Temporary Resident Visa or a Permanent Resident Immigration Visa. It’s advisable to hire a visa facilitator or a lawyer who can help you navigate the paperwork and expedite the process for you.

Mexico is a largely First-World country, with good infrastructure, fast and reliable telecommunications, and excellent health care. It welcomes foreign investment and makes it easy for foreigners to obtain residency and set up a business there— even if you’re a small entrepreneur.

In Puerto Escondido, an emerging tourist economy is currently growing. Many opportunities exist for entrepreneurs wanting to serve the tourist industry.

13. Seniors Benefits in Mexico

Having a Temporary Residence Visa offers the following benefits:

Allows you to sign up for Mexico’s national health insurance coverage, called IMSS. This has a top rate of less than$300 a year—for both medical care and medicines. Get a senior citizen’s card once you’re 60 years old through INAPAM, Mexico’s national senior citizens’ organization. With an INAPAM card from your Mexican state government, you can get discounts off a variety of goods and services, including medical care and devices; airline and bus tickets; entrance fees to concerts, museums, and archaeological sites; and even a discount on your property taxes. With an FM-3 you can bring your foreign-plated car to Mexico and keep it there. If you switch to an FM-2 you’ll need to get a Mexican-plated car. With the FM-2 you can be exempt from capital gains tax when you sell a Mexican property, just as Mexicans are.

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14. Mexico Health Care

Health care in Mexico is first-rate. Private clinics and hospitals are staffed by expert physicians (many of whom trained in the U.S., Europe, or in Mexico’s own world-renowned teaching hospitals), and medical care and prescription drugs will cost you only a fraction of what you would pay in the U.S.

Prescription drugs manufactured in Mexico cost, on average, about 50% less than the same drugs cost in the U.S. Of course, the costs of medical care will vary by physician, hospital, and your condition. On average, an office visit with a doctor—specialists included—will cost about $50 to $80.

Lab tests will cost about a third of what they cost in the U.S. A CAT scan often costs about 25% of U.S. prices. A visit to a dentist for teeth cleaning costs about $60.

In Mexico there’s IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, or Mexican Social Security Institute), Mexico’s national health insurance. Once you have a residence visa, you can get health insurance coverage—including prescription medicines—through IMSS for just $300 per year.

Puerto Escondido has a new hospital, completed in 2010 and numerous health care providers including Medical doctors, Dentists, Specialists and natural healing practitioners.

15. Volunteering

Many people considering buying a vacation (or permanent!) home in Mexico are not looking to work for financial remuneration, but are looking for ways to keep busy and lead a more fulfilling life. At Vivo Resorts we have set up the Vivo Foundation, a charitable arm which we established to help the community and environment.

One of the core values that Vivo Resorts is built upon is the belief in being a good neighbour. To contribute and give back is important, and this goes for both the community and the natural environment in which we live.

One of the goals of the Foundation is to attract Vivo Resorts members and colleagues to make their own individual contributions. By helping in the lives of others and/or helping with local environmental initiatives we believe the ‘contributor’ reciprocally experiences a more fulfilling life.

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16. Lifestyle Considerations

Any important decision in life should only be made after careful consideration, and investing in property is no different. You should have a clear idea of your goals. Do your research, and know your facts. Your next task is to determine what’s most important to you in an investment property. While this may sound like common sense, surprisingly few people actually write out a list of their priorities for choosing a vacation or retirement home. Once you have your list, you can quickly take the time to think about what is most important to you, and prioritize it. Doing this will help you to quickly sort through your options and narrow down your search.

Be sure to consider these factors:

Location If fishing or surfing interest you, are they available? Are you more interested in urban or rural life? Is there potential for new interests, or is the What kind of lifestyle interests you? area unlikely to grow? Do you want to stay busy or lead a quiet life? When friends or family come, will they be Do you want to live in a touristy area? able to find a variety of activities? Do you prefer authentic and untouched? Does the area offer opportunities to enjoy local art and music? Are you looking for an expat community where others share your interests? Cost of Living

Climate Is the purchase price a good value for what you’re getting? Research the daily high and low temperatures throughout the year. Are there on-site amenities available to enhance your life? What are the humidity and precipitation levels, including the monthly averages? Do you prefer an ocean view or a more secluded location? What is the temperature of the water? Is your potential home large enough to Is the area at high risk for hurricanes? accommodate all visitors? Is it a windy area? Is food fresh, affordable, and available close by? Recreational Activities Are other everyday costs (everything from medical expenses to hired help) within your What kinds of sports and activities do you budget? prefer?

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These examples won’t include everything on your wish list for your dream vacation property, but they represent a few of the factors you should consider. Regardless of the items on your list, however, it’s your priorities that matter. If something is a “must have”, don’t give it up immediately because a certain property meets other requirements. No property is perfect, but your vacation home can easily turn into your permanent retirement home if you plan properly, so don't compromise too much. You want to be comfortable there for a very long time. If you’ve thought carefully about your needs, you’ll have a better chance of making the right decision for you.

17. Is Mexico Safe?

This is a major topic on a lot of people's minds these days and it's our intention to provide some perspective to the real violent crime risk to tourists and expats living in Mexico.

Let’s start by acknowledging there is a very serious problem with violent crime in Mexico mainly due to the trafficking of drugs into the U.S.

The media in Canada and the United States have certainly done a good job of scaring people away from Mexico. These media reports are designed to shock and quite often the stories are distorted to leave the audience with the impression the problem is everywhere throughout the country. What is often overlooked is the fact that most of the casualties of the Drug War are members of the Drug cartels either being killed by rival gangs or members of the Mexican army deployed to the northern border cities to clean up the problem.

These reports almost always have a negative bias and rarely include mention of the progress made by the Mexican government to control the flow of drugs.

Rather than rely on headlines and hearsay to make a judgment about safety in Mexico, let's look at the facts. We hear about crime in Mexico more often than any other sun destination country, leading many to believe it's one of the most dangerous places you could vacation, retire to or invest in. When looking at the homicide rate statistics presented by the United Nations, you may be surprised to learn some countries that are widely believed to be safe are in fact more dangerous than Mexico. Honduras, Jamaica, Belize, Panama, Bahamas, and Barbados are all examples of countries with higher homicide rates, some more than double the rate in Mexico.

When you consider the homicide rates in Mexico compared to many major US cities, you’ll understand that you’re safer in Mexico than you are in many areas of the United States. Consider this graph (source: UN Office on Drugs & Crime).

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Most important is to consider the safety of the area in which you plan to live, In Puerto Escondido crime rates are very low. It’s a family friendly area that “feels” safe. There are no areas that are “off limits” to tourists, you can wander and explore the city without fear.

14. Embassies

Canadian Embassy in Mexico: Fax (Passports): (55) 5387.9305 Schiller 529, Col. Bosque de Chapultepec (Polanco) Email: [email protected] Del. Miguel Hidalgo Mexican Embassy in Canada: 11580 Mexico City, D.F. Mexico Address: 45 O'Connor St., Suite 1000 Contact info: Ottawa, Ontario K1P 1A4 From Canada dial: 011-52 + (Area Code) + Number Opening hours: From Mexico dial: 01 + (Area Code) + Number Monday to Friday Telephone: (55) 5724.7900 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Fax (Administration): (55) 5724.7980 Consular services: Monday to Friday Fax (Cultural): (55) 5724.7981 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (customer service)

Fax (Political Relations): (55) 5724.7985 Telephone: (613) 233-8988 Email: [email protected] Fax: Assistance to Canadians (Consular Section): (613) 235-9123

Telephone: (55) 5724.7900 Email: [email protected] Fax (Consular): (55) 5724.7943 Website: http://www.sre.gob.mx/canadaingles (english)

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U.S. Embassy in Mexico: Reforma 305, Col. Cuauhtemoc, Del. Cuauhtemoc, C.P. 06500 Telephone: (From the U.S.) 011-52-55-5080-2000, extension 0 Telephone: (From Mexico) 01-55-5080-2000, extension 0 Web: http://mexico.usembassy.gov/

Mexican Embassy in the U.S., 1911 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C., 20006; tel. (202) 728-1600; e-mail: on website; website: http://portal.sre.gob.mx/usa/.

Mexican consulates in U.S.: There are 45, search here: http://www.sre.gob.mx/acerca/directorio/dircons.htm

Summary

Retirement in Mexico can be everything you’re dreaming about and more. The welcoming people, fantastic weather, rich culture, healthy lifestyle and incredible beauty can be yours to discover and enjoy.

There are many aspects to consider before making a decision, we encourage you to research and investigate your options before deciding. We hope the information we’ve provided here will draw your curiosity towards Vivo Resorts and Puerto Escondido.

If you’re intrigued to have a closer look, just click here to request an information package about the Vivo Resorts beachfront community.

Sincerely, The Vivo Resorts Team

web: www.mexicorealestatecondos.com www.vivoresorts.com www.youtube.com/vivoresortsvideos

tel: 1-866-236-2279

email: [email protected]

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