Luisa (Louise) Yim

Louisa Yim

Employed or Retired? Retired teacher, St. Paul, Minnesota, Public Schools, of 37 years!

Single, couple, family? Married; husband remains in Minnesota ice fishing during the winter.

Where did you live previously? Native of St. Paul, Minnesota; lived in Minneapolis for most of my life.

When did you move to Vallarta? Originally, one week via the charter flights beginning way back in ’83; since retirement, two weeks for a few years, stretched to one month for the next few years, then, two months. For the past four years, six months!

What part of town do you live? Downtown Centro

Why did you decide to move? Though Minnesota is a great place to live, Puerto Vallarta is wonderful and especially during the winter. Minnesota winters last forever. Climate is indeed a factor but more than that! Puerto Vallarta offers a relaxed, healthy environment; and an ability to live most of one’s life outdoors in a welcoming, diverse, community of kind, caring, friendly Mexican residents, ex pats from all over the world and turistas who come from the four corners to explore.

I love the culture and traditions, the cuisine, the ocean, the landscape, the kindness and acceptance of Mexicans who graciously share their turf with us. I spend six months per year here because I believe the quality of life is superior; one benefits from the slower pace, the better diet, and the opportunity to navigate on foot, thus deriving the benefit of exercise. Being in a vibrant Mexican culture, interacting with people who were born and raised here contributes to my appreciation of the unique traits that we all add to the fabric of humanity.

Where else did you consider? I have traveled extensively. I appreciate the proximity of Mexico and certainly the abundant resources that PV offers.

What were your considerations: PV is very easy to access. From Minnesota there are direct flights via major airlines and a charter, as well.

Moving to a totally different society presents a challenge. I appreciate the fact that Puerto Vallarta residents are welcoming and accepting. The community is up to date, vibrant and safe. I walk the streets everywhere and am out when it is dark. I have never had a problem. I also love the fact that PV is relatively dog friendly. My four legged furry child and I have explored this city on foot with a positive reception everywhere.

There are numerous excellent resources and attractions in PV. Eating is wonderful; an array of restaurants, most comparable to Minnesota in price. Some cheaper. Grocery stores are fully stocked with everything you would want. Cultural activities abound. Classes and enrichment opportunities everywhere. Beautiful beaches and sunsets. Walks on the Malacon offer an experience with displays of local art work, musicians, food and jewelry and craft vendors. I love the fact that families, children and the elderly, holding hands, casually stroll the Malacon into the wee hours of the night. Children are especially well behaved. A very family centered respectful community.

What was the main reason(s) you moved here: PV offers a respite from the fast paced life in the States. Stress is far less. One is exposed to a more healthy life style; the farmers’ market is full of beautifully freshly grown produce; options for meats not hormone / chemically induced, fresh delicious fruit is plentiful. Vitamin D is extracted from the sun rather than a pill. Walking is one’s form of transportation. People here are friendly and accepting. When one walks the street or beach, one greets the passers-by. Greetings and conversation ensue among strangers. You don’t have to be fluent in Spanish; a few words and command of a basic greeting will be appreciated. Immediately one becomes part of the community! The community is so diverse. I love that feature. There is a sense of freedom; to be oneself. So many expressions of identity everywhere. Without a sense of judgment prevailing.

Top 3 things you have learned that you think might help someone moving to Vallarta now:

• There is a zest for life that permeates! It’s contagious!
• You will fall in love with the life here! Never a dull moment; so much to discover and to appreciate.
• You will identify and seek to be part of the fabric of the community…You will begin to live in a different way; you will adapt to a relaxed life style, see beauty in things you never before noticed, your interest in new arenas will be sparked, your physical and mental health will take on new dimensions, you will feel alive, open to re-assess your values and explore new horizons.