A Pueblo Mágico is a place where “symbolism, legend, history, important events and day-to-day life” have collided to create a unique result. “They are magic in their social and cultural manifestations, with great opportunities for tourism.” This is a good description from Mexico’s tourism agency, which is more than can be said about SECTUR’s website. Some things are the same everywhere. One constant is that government websites are not the most useful.

Expat: Marcia Hass dedicated to: Animal rescue.

Originally from: Plentywood and Missoula, Montana.

Lives in: Six kilometers from Tepoztlán, Morelos.

Living in Mexico: Since June 2006.

Why did you move to Mexico?
My concept of an ideal life, once retired, was to live at least part of the year in some Latin American country. In 1994, long-time friends invited me to their house outside Tepoztlán. I found the climate to be mild, not buggy, and above all, easy on my arthritic body. There were lots of trails to hike, and varied flora and fauna given Morelos' many microclimates.