After living in La Paz for more than a year, photographer and travel vlogger Alexa Calderon lists her pros and cons of living in the City of Peace. Spoiler Alert: most of the “cons” she lists are what some people would describe as “pros” — or at any rate, not so con as to warrant overly worrying about, especially if you know what to expect beforehand.
Known for its stunning coastal beauty and relaxed lifestyle, La Paz offers a unique blend of advantages and challenges and Alexa offers her perspective as a dual US-Mexico citizen who loves wander-seeking for personal fulfillment and spiritual uplift.
Cortez Coastal Paradise
The most obvious benefit of a coastal town in Mexico is often the beaches, Alexa says, but the BCS capital on the Cortez Sea is in a class by itself when it comes to diversity and quality.
“La Paz and the surrounding areas are home to several gorgeous beaches perfect for a sunny weekend or to watch one of the many awe-inspiring sunsets,” Alexa shares.
Pick a beach to fit your mood….from soft, sandy shores to rocky, shell-filled beaches, there’s no shortage of locations to relax and soak up the sun in the refreshing Sea of Cortez, says Alexa.
Whether you prefer to sit back and read a book or pursue an adventure like you read about, La Paz offers various peaceful beaches and more active spots for water sports, snorkeling, and tourist attractions like boat and jet ski rentals.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
One of the most appealing aspects of living in La Paz, as opposed perhaps to other more tourism-oriented destinations, is the prevalence and presence of locals of all ages spending time in the community together.
“Mexican culture as a whole is very family-oriented, but not all of Mexico’s beautiful cities are equally family-focused. Here, we noticed early on how often we see families enjoying the malecon, beaches, and restaurants together,” Alexa observes.
Hurry Up & Slow Down
The laid-back atmosphere of La Paz is perfect for those seeking a slower-paced life, free from the rush and pressure of busy cities.
“If you are tired of the rat race, busy cities, retired, or just generally prefer a laid-back lifestyle, this city removes the rush and pressure of the I-need-it-now perspective. You can settle into the peace and quiet without worrying about things the same. La Paz does translate to ‘peace,’ you know,” Alexa says.
However, the “Mañana” approach to day-to-day living means getting things done may not always be immediate or easy. In La Paz, people take precedence over punctuality.
Take the time to build connections with your neighbors and local residents. Engaging in social activities, attending community events, and simply spending time with friends can enrich your experience and help you feel more at home.