great advice, EEK! the weather site is excellent and shows a big difference between Lakeside and Guad. If we could afford both towns (mazatlan and San Juan Cosala) and a rental at home for parts of some summers, I think that would be ideal... and dreaming. for the near future, exploring other towns and renting for quite a while to come sound like the way to go, but so much different from the life we've known. we're kind of traditionally boring. something warmer is all I require. Have you been to the little towns higher than Mazatlan, like Concordia? Is there life up there? I loved Jocotepec when we were there. the people are so friendly and purposeful. I won't be back to paradise till the week after Christmas on a woefully indulgent cruise; PV, Maz and Cabo, but I haven't been to any of those cities, and can't wait to see the cathedral and shopping at Mazatlan.... Le vaya bien, M. Pierce