Mazatlan : Mexico

Mazatlan is the second largest city in the Mexican state of Sinaloa with a population of more than 350,000.  No youngster, Mazatlan was founded in 1531. It developed as a commercial seaport, importing equipment for the nearby gold and silver mines. It served as the capital of Sinaloa from 1859 to 1873. The German settlers also influenced the local music, banda, which is an alteration of Bavarian folk music. The settlers also established the Pacifico Brewery.  It is located on the coast above Puerta Vallarta.  is considered one of the longest in the world, has a length of about 21 km, along the Pacific coast, among which you can find from high cliffs, monuments, gazebos, old buildings, hotels, etc. The Malecon from Mazatlan is composed of a series of scenic roads with pedestrian space whose name varies along the route by stage or time of construction. Mazatlan is still a major port and tourism popular for its fishing and sandy beaches. Many North Americans retire here for the warm weather  and inexpensive lifestyle.  Picture of Mazatlan Lighthouse courtesy of Wikipedia and Stan Shebs; picture of the Monument to the Continuity of Life courtesy of Wikipedia and Juanjosegzi.

During the 40's and 50's many hotels were built here to accomodate the tourist trade. Today there are many time shares and homes purchased by retirees. There is also great variety in neighborhoods and prices of homes and condos. At one site we saw homes available for far less than $100k (US) and well into the millions. Many nice places were in the $200s and $300s.

Mazatlan is a well-established city in Mexico. The city is very old and has been restored to its former glory. Its Centro Histórico is a great resource. Located on the sea and offers plenty to do, all for a much lower price than in the USA. John Wayne and his buddies used to come here for its excellent sport-fishing. The Malecon from Mazatlan along the Pacific coast, is considered one of the longest in the world and features high cliffs, monuments, gazebos, old buildings, and hotels.