If you are looking for a place in Mexico to live that has a picturesque tropical oceanfront, a historical experience but also the modern conveniences of a developed resort, Mazatlan is a hidden jewel that is worth serious consideration. Mazatlan is a thriving port town that has grown to a population of about 600,000. It reminds me a lot of New Orleans, because of it's rich culture, historical district, it's busy port, and it is also home to Carnival, which is a huge festival in Mexico similar to Marti Gras. However, unlike New Orleans, you don't have to worry as much about hurricanes, since it is on the west coast and it is in an ideal climate zone, parallel to Los Cabos and slightly higher in latitude than Hawaii. Although it doesn't receive as much attention as Los Cabos and Cancun, Mazatlan has a lot to offer to investors and retirees. Landmark Waterfront The Zona Dorada, or "Golden Zone" was created in the mid 1950's and has developed into a world class resort with high rise hotels and "frenetic " shopping according to Fordor's Mexico guide. The beach stretches for about 16 miles, which is one of the largest uninterupted beaches in Mexico. One of the best features is the malecon, a sidewalk that overlooks the sea for 6 miles and connects the Golden Zone to Old Mazatlan in the south. Historic Appeal Despite the accerating pace of development, Mazatlan is one of the top cultural centers in Mexico. There is a clear deliniation between the tourist area and the historic downtown. The cornerstone to the downtown, may be the Teatro Angela Peralta, a 1860's opera house that has been restored to host performances like ballet, opera, symphony, dance, and theater. Other attractions include the brilliant cathedral, Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, and the romantic setting of El Faro, a 100+ foot lighthouse. Mazatlan also hosts Carnival, arguably the largest celebrations in all of Mexico that is held during the week before Lent and is filled with music, parades, dancing, fireworks, and other activities. There are a lot of indicators that suggest Mazatlan will be a strong investment for the future. Mazatlan has flown under the radar, compared to other Mexican destinations like Cancun and Cabo, so real estate prices are generally lower, with more room for appreciation. Mazatlan has several attractions that can keep retirees busy as well as attract tourism. There is an international airport just 16 miles south of the Hotel Zone and a quality private highway that provides easy access to and from the US. A United Arab Emirates company is investing $500 million dollars into a huge real estate development and there are several new condominium projects being developed, especially in the Nuevo Mazatlan area. There are quality health care facilities such as Hospital Milatar, which has specialists on duty 24 hours a day, and infrastructure is well developed. One of the cons, is that Mazatlan is in the state of Sinaloa, which PBS's Frontline has called "The Place Mexico's Kingpins Call Home". Drug traffiking is one of the major problems in Mexico.

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