Many people are afraid to visit Mexico because of the violence among the drug lords along the U.S.-Mexico border. Remember, Mexico is a large country with 31 states. Like the United States, every state has its rules, regulations, and taxes. Thus, each state is governed differently. Some states are desirable to live in, while others are not.

Back in 2005, I had the pleasure of spending a week in the safe and serene Los Cabos, Mexico, nestled in the State of Baja California Sur. This region, comprising two towns just 10 miles apart, is situated on the picturesque tip of the Baja Peninsula. The climate here is a delightful desert with low-lying mountains, and the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean provide a perfect backdrop. It's worth noting that we were able to enjoy a swim in the ocean even in December, a testament to the region's safety and tranquillity.

Los Cabos refers to the sister cities: Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Cabo. Cabo San Lucas is a tourist destination and allows large cruise ships to dock. San Jose Cabo was more rustic and laid-back. However, the Mexican government is developing San Jose Cabo into another tourist destination. The government is constructing large docks, allowing massive cruise ships to dock. Further, developers are constructing shopping plazas, restaurants, hotels, and condominiums. 2005, McDonald's was already there, and Burger King was being constructed.

The Mexican federal government owns all of Mexico's beaches. Thus, all beaches are open to the public. Restaurants, hotels, and owners cannot restrict access. A hotel or property owner cannot kick you out if you can walk to a beach. The beaches are beautiful. As I lay on the beach gazing at the Pacific Ocean's blue waters, I could see scores of fish hopping and skipping along the waves. 

I definitely would not mind retiring in La Cabos. The Pacific Ocean is blue and beautiful, and the people are friendly. However, few speak English fluently, which could be a good thing. That way, it forces Americans to learn another language.

Real estate prices were not bad—a one-bedroom condo sold for $60,000 in San Jose Cabo in 2005. However, foreigners cannot own property within 60 miles of the coast. Consequently, Mexico developed a convoluted way for foreigners to buy property on the coast. When a foreigner buys a coastal property, a bank holds the title. Each year, the foreigner pays a fee to the bank. When I looked at condominium prices in Lox Cabos in 2011, I was surprised the prices doubled. After the 2008 financial crisis, crime has increased in the Los Cabos area. Unfortunately, foreigners stick out like a sore thumb.

Mexico

• The country's area spans 761,606 square miles, making Mexico the 15th largest country.
• The currency is the Mexican peso.
• The capital is Mexico City.
• In 2008, the population was estimated at 110 million, making Mexico the 11th most populous country in the world.
• Mexico City is the country's largest city and financial and political hub.
• Mexico has 31 states.
• The tourist destinations for foreigners are Cancun and Los Cabos, while Mexicans like to vacation in Acapulco.