Driving in Ajijic Mexico

Driving in Ajijic is similar to driving anywhere in some ways but so different in others. Today, I want to share my observations as a newcomer to Ajijic. For those who don't know the terrain here let me try to give you a visual. Ajijic is sandwiched between the mountains on the north and Lake Chapala to the south. Ajijic resides in the narrow place between the two, so the major roads run east and west.

How driving is different in Ajijic than Toronto:

1. Instead of seeing construction signs on the road, the warning signs are for cows. You will see cows grazing on the grasses beside the highway as a way of cheaply feeding the animals. At night beware when driving on the highways for dead cows or worse yet a live one in the middle of the highway.

2. Because this system works so well for the cow farmers, the horse owners have adopted it as well, when you drive along the road, try to count how many horses are tied up and grazing along the road.

3. Drivers use common sense. It's shocking. If the oncoming traffic has someone trying to make a left, you let them in to let the rest of traffic flow, regardless of the rules or traffic lights.

4. When driving in the village where the roads are cobblestoned and very narrow, if it is a two way street, ensure that you drive slow enough to watch for not only children but dogs, roosters and horses on road. They have the right of way.

5. When driving on a road that is too narrow, the right of way is given to the one who has the hardest time of making way. To explain if there are cars parked on the southbound side of the road and you are driving south and an oncoming car is approaching, then you would yield to the oncoming traffic and pull over to let them pass because it the easiest.

Driving in Ajijic is easy and fun as everyone waves and smiles but you have to find your way to blend in and not try to drive with the same habits and attitudes that seem to be necessary north of the border.

Next post I will talk about the vehicles and what is acceptable on the roads.