Great info. However, I noticed that you did not mention any of the crime in the Lakeside area. From what I've read on other forums, there is a significant amount of petty theft (break-ins and some muggings, purse-snatchings) that are increasing and also becoming more aggressive. These are not just the result of opportunistic thefts (windows left open, purses dangling in a crowded market, etc), but from what I've read, they involve bars being pried open with tools, locks being removed forcefully from doors, very high walls being scaled, etc. Sometimes the maids or gardeners are part of the theft, since they can tell family members or friends about what is in the home or apartment, and also alert thieves of the resident's schedule.

From what I've read (reading various forums over 2 years), the number of break-ins, even with residents at home, seems high for the population, based on resident meetings at the Lake Chapala Society, and resident meetings with local officials. There are known drug houses in the area as well. At any rate, I do think that a discussion of the crime in the area is important for anyone looking for info about the area for a possible retirement or move or even a stay of several months a year.[/quote]Yes, there is some crime, but from what I can tell it's minimal by comparison to many or most places NOB. The ones lately you've been reading about are (guess where) in the village, there a thief has a better chance of getting away. Plus there is strong suspicion that a crime "family" is in the area using kids as look outs etc. I really don't believe the crime is a problem here, it's certainly nothing I spend much time addressing. I do the usual and try to be aware.

Now to be honest I don't have a maid per se, she works with her husband the gardener outside (and it's not at all that I don't trust her or them) but I have computer equipment etc. and just don't feel comfortable with someone else in my space. Now, I often leave the compound when they are here and leave the doors open so I trust them, but that's just my comfort level (and yes, it's a bit dusty at times, what can I tell you, we're bachelors baby! - me and Max the gato).

There are houses with barbed wire and electrified wire around the compound including concertina razor wire and I always wonder what is inside that they are so paranoid about. Many years ago I had a Corvette, in fact all I ever had until late life was convertibles and you never left anything in them because someone would cut the top to see what you had, left open if was obvious you had nothing.

There are much greater things in the world to worry about in my opinion.