Reporting from the quiet slopes below Volcán de Fuego, this is the story of Comala, a small town in Colima that many are calling a hidden gem for living, working, or retiring in Mexico. With cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and a constant backdrop of green hills, Comala still feels like the countryside, yet sits just 20 minutes from the city of Colima.
Locals live at an easy pace, enjoying coffee grown on volcanic soil and sipping ponche, the town’s signature fruit-and-nut drink. Life here is community-centered. The main plaza hums each afternoon with conversation, live music, and botaneros serving generous bites alongside cold drinks.
For newcomers, Spanish helps a lot, life here runs on local customs more than expat enclaves. Housing costs remain relatively low, with more opportunities to buy than to rent. The nearby city of Colima provides modern amenities and healthcare, while Guadalajara and Manzanillo are a few hours away for bigger outings or flights abroad.
Comala’s subtropical climate stays warm through the year, cooler as you climb toward the volcano. It’s a place for those seeking authenticity, quiet surroundings, and the kind of Mexico where daily life still moves to local rhythms.
My Take…
Comala sounds like my top of spot. Just need reasonable Spanish skills to fully enjoy life and assimilate better.
In small towns, Spanish actually matters, no “expat bubble.” Housing’s still affordable (for now), and Colima handles your modern‑life needs. Warm year‑round, slower than dial‑up. Authentic, calm, and refreshingly un‑Instagrammed. Nice 🙂
Click on the link below for the full article:
https://www.mexperience.com/living-working-and-retirement-in-comala-colima/
