AboutRon Russell Expertise I lived full time in the Chapala-Ajijic area for 7 years, and now Manzanillo area 4 years. During that time I provided information (health care, working papers, immigration, driving, cost of living, insurance, culture, divorce in Mexico, trusts vs direct deed,etc) to help people make the decision about whether the area was right for them, either full or part-time.
Now living north of Manzanillo on the Pacific Coast. I live legally in Mexico.
Experience Founding partner of a facilitation company for people thinking about relocating to the Lake Chapala area of Mexico. I am no longer involved in this company's activities.
Have driven extensively in the area, to the coast (Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta, Colima),to Patzcuaro, etc. Bused to Mexico City, flew to Chiapas. Also driven in Honduras, from Ontario Canada through border crossings at Laredo and Reynosa Texas to Lakeside. Can provide instructions and border crossing info. Publications: DISCOVER MEXICO, HEAD FOR MEXICO-THE RENEGADE GUIDE BY DON ADAMS. Video and MM production specialist. I do NOT sell real estate!
Question Hello from Hawaii. My wife & I are senior citizens and are planning to fly to Los Angeles on Dec 21st and make our way to Guadalajara, we will be flying back to Hawaii on 4 Jan from LAX.
We are considering a first class bus ride from Tijuana to Guadalajara but are not too sure if such is wise. I have heard pros and cons. I have not found anything that looks like good airfares to Guadalajara from either LAX, San Diego, or Tijuana.
What advice might you offer?
Answer Hola Jon,
You might be able to find a charter airfare to Puerto Vallarta from Los Angeles. Check out Alaskan Air. Then take a national bus to Guadalajara, about 5 1/2 hours.
The first class bus system in Mexico is fantastic. We have not taken the same trip from Tijuana, but have taken first class buses to Mexico City and return, Tequila, and Puerto Vallarta. We prefer the ETN buses but there are several companies. The buses have washrooms, provide a light lunch, and movies. It's a long trip from Tijuana, but I would not hesitate to take it myself.
Are you travelling on to Chapala? If so best to take a taxi from Guadalajara to the Lakeside. The local bus terminal is located several miles from the national (Centro) terminal where you will arrive. Bargain for the taxi fare, we paid 400 pesos last May.
Good to have a little Spanish under your belt, or a phrase book.
