Potential retirement location

Hi David!

Compared to the other areas you mentioned that you are familiar with, Zihua and Ixtapa are much safer and frankly, in terms of the cartel presence, they are everywhere there is money to be made in Mexico. My feeling on the cartel subject has always been that as a tourist I had little to worry about from them unless I was involved in the drug trade, either as a buyer or seller, and then you are taking huge chances. But the cartels also have vested interests in tourism and want you to enjoy and spend money as they have investments in many hotels and other establishments so I have never fell at risk because of them in that part of the country. Yes, there is some petty crime as many of the locals have no jobs and the economy is not what it was in the 80's-early 90's but it has been getting better the last 5-6 years but there is still way too much population for the work available. But violent crime in Zihua against tourists is an anomaly and I certainly feel safer there than where I live. As far as the bus hijacking, it is actually a lot more common than reported, especially on those buses doing many stops and at night. It's less of an issue for the luxury buses only doing pick up at controlled bus terminals and doing weapons check there. Your comfort zone is a personal thing and you may feel different about Zihua then I do but we seem to have similar work/life experiences from what you posted and I think if you are looking for a place that has more of an authentic Mexican feel, with reasonable rates, an awesome weather and lots of friendly, genuine folks, Zihua is the place. It also offer most services you may need in terms of health, dental, theatre, etc...