Beach vs. mountains: Which is for you?

The idea of moving abroad can be both exciting and daunting. While the question of how to move to another country may seem complex, the process can be surprisingly smooth with careful planning. Use our guide below for a seamless transition as you move, and download our moving checklist to stay on track.  1. Start planning and saving early Moving to another country is a significant life change, and planning early is key to a smooth transition. You’ll want to consider factors such as your desired location, finances and other necessary research. Kick off your planning with the following: It helps to use a physical planner or digital tool to track your progress and keep everything in one place as you plan the different aspects of your move.  2. Get or renew your passport ASAP If you plan on moving to another country, you’ll need a valid passport. If you don’t have one, start the application process immediately. Here’s what to do:  If your current passport is about to expire, it’s best to renew it well in advance to avoid any delays. 3. Connect with an immigration professional If learning how to move to another country permanently seems overwhelming, an immigration professional can offer valuable guidance and support. They can walk you through complex immigration laws, help prepare the necessary documents for your visa application and address any potential challenges when 4. Apply for your visa and permits Obtaining the necessary visa and permits is crucial in successfully moving internationally. These documents authorize your ability to enter and stay in the country you’ll be living in. Here’s what steps to expect:  Your immigration professional can guide you through this process to ensure you complete each step accurately.  5. Contact your bank If you plan to live overseas, you must inform your bank to ensure smooth financial transactions during and after the move. Here are the important steps to take to avoid any issues:  6. Dive into research on your future home country Whether you want to 7. Find a place to call home Finding the right place to live is a crucial step in moving overseas. Here’s what to consider when searching for your new home:  Be sure to do your research well before moving somewhere new so you have plenty of time to find the right location.  8. Decide what to do with your car(s) One decision you may face when moving to a different country is what to do with your cars. Will you sell them or bring them with you? If you’re planning on Unless you’re moving somewhere with limited public transportation, selling your car can often be the simplest option due to the complexities of international car shipping and registering in a new country.  9. Sort out healthcare options Research the healthcare coverage you’ll need and how to secure it before relocating to another country. Consider the following:  10. Gather and organize important documents Much like 11. Set up your phone and internet When moving to a new country, you will need a reliable phone and internet connection. Research your options and set up your services before or shortly after you move to avoid any service interruptions. Here’s what to do:  12. Prep your pets If you’re bringing your pets with you on your international move, you’ll want to plan ahead to ensure their safe and comfortable transition. Moving abroad requires more than just planning a 13. Choose how you want to move your stuff Next, you’ll need to decide how to transport your belongings.To keep costs down, it’s helpful to downsize your items as much as possible.  Then, you’ll want to compare quotes from various shipping companies. There are a few different options for the exact method of how you’ll move your stuff: 14. Book your flight and moving method To keep things organized and on track, it’s best to book your flight and moving method well before your actual move date. Here’s a quick checklist:  15. Learn the local language and culture Learning the local language and unique culture in your new home country can make for a more seamless integration. Here are a few helpful places to start:  16. Get movin’ The last step in moving to another country is to pack your bags, say goodbye and embark on your new adventure. Prepare for the following:  Once you arrive in your new country, you can look ahead as you begin this new chapter. If your new country is simply a 17. Stay on track with a checklist for moving abroad With everything to consider when moving to another country, a well-organized relocation checklist can help you stay on top of every detail and task. Use our checklist to track your moving to-dos by month, from obtaining your passport and visa to packing up your belongings.   Take your first steps with Pacaso While learning how to move to another country may feel overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be with proper planning and preparation. Following our checklist to help keep you on track, you’ll be ready for your big move abroad!  If you want to enjoy the perks of living abroad without the stress of moving to a new country full-time, consider

If you love the activities that make Vail, Colorado, a famous From golf and garden exploring to fly fishing and white water rafting, our guide offers 25 top activities to enjoy during your trip to Vail this summer. 1. Wander the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens Topping our list is one of the most popular things to do in Vail. As the world’s highest-altitude botanical garden at 8,200 feet, the 2. Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame The 3. Sample 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits 4. Try new sports at Vail Ski Resort 5. Sip some brews at Vail Brewing Company 6. Explore Lionshead Village Scenic 7. Enjoy outdoor concerts at The Amp Fittingly located next door to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the 8. Taste summer’s bounty at the Vail Farmers Market If you are looking for a fun and delicious way to hang out in Vail in the summer, you should check out the 9. Play outside at Piney River Ranch 10. Play a round of golf surrounded by mountains  The award-winning 11. Have an adventure at Epic Discovery A true mountain playground for daredevils of all ages, 12. Get your blood pumping at Vail Nordic Center 13. Ride the Eagle Bahn Gondola The 14. Take a self-guided art walk at Vail Village Vail Village is a charming Bavarian-style ski village, making it a lovely place to spend an afternoon. Discover the incredible 55 works of public art that are spread throughout town. To see them all, you’ll want to stop by the welcome center to pick up a free map. Guided tours are also available during the summer.  15. Catch a sunrise or sunset at Bighorn Park 16. Make friends with a llama Yes, really. 17. Explore the Vail Nature Center  The 18. Go whitewater rafting Cool off on a hot summer day with an exhilarating ride down the Colorado and Arkansas Rivers. Local outfitters offer a range of rafting options, from kid-friendly introductory trips to technical rafting experiences with rapids up to Class IV. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Opt for a low-key float trip through Browns Canyon, where your guide will do all the paddling.  19. Sample wines from around the world  20. Enjoy tubing in Vail Relish in the thrill of tubing in Vail while being surrounded by the greenery and beauty of the Colorado mountains. 21. Fly through the sky on a zip line Soar through the air and enjoy the scenic views of Colorado. If you are looking for a zip line adventure in Vail, you have plenty of options to choose from in the summer. You can zip line over the Colorado River, through the alpine forests or across the Rocky Mountains. Tours vary in length, difficulty and price, but they all guarantee a memorable and exciting experience. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find a zip line tour that suits your level of adventure and budget. 22. Bike Vail’s trails Vail offers many trails and paths for cyclists of all levels and abilities. You can enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you pedal along the paved and dirt roads or cruise through downtown Vail. Whether you want to challenge yourself with steep climbs and descents, or relax and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace, there is a route for you in Vail. 23. See Vail on horseback Horseback riding in Vail is a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty of summer in the Rocky Mountains. Whether you are a beginner or an expert rider, you can find a trail that suits your skill level and preferences. You can choose from half-day, full-day or overnight trips, and explore the alpine meadows, aspen forests and wildflower fields with your friendly steed. 24. Spend the day fly fishing Vail is a popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of rivers and streams to explore. Some of the best spots for fly fishing in Vail are Eagle River, Gore Creek and the Colorado River. You will need a fishing license, which you can buy online or at local shops. Enjoy the scenic views and the fresh mountain air that make Vail a perfect place for fly fishing.  25. See it all with a hot air balloon ride If you’re looking for one of the most thrilling things to do in Vail in summer, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. A hot air balloon ride is a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains from a bird's-eye view. You can soar over the lush green valleys and sparkling rivers, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the clear blue sky. Vail, Colorado, is a nature lover's dream. Although the town is famous for its winter sports scene, there are plenty of things to do in Vail in summer as well. If you could see yourself in this year-round paradise, skip the vacation rentals and consider investing in a

Contrary to the spring break reputation you may associate Cabo with, it has matured into a haven for sophisticated travelers. This sun-kissed region at the tip of Baja California boasts two distinct areas: If you’re wondering 1. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal Imagine plunging into your private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean. That’s the kind of luxury offered by 2. Las Ventanas al Paraiso 3. Esperanza At 4. The Cape 5. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences Known for its contemporary luxury, 6. Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa 7. Grand Solmar Land’s End Resort and Spa 8. Grand Velas Boutique Hotel 9. Grand Velas Los Cabos 10. Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort 11. Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos 12. ME Cabo If you’re looking for a modern and stylish getaway, 13. Montage Los Cabos 14. Nobu Hotel Los Cabos With a prime location on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, 15. One&Only Palmilla Located on the edge of the Baja Peninsula, the 16. Paradisus Los Cabos This adults-only luxury beach resort sits along a stunning beach with views of the Sea of Cortés. If you’re looking for the VIP experience, 17. Solaz 18. Viceroy Los Cabos Winner of Travel + Leisure World’s Best 2024, 19. Zadún 20. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas  Located on a remote stretch of coastline along the East Cape, Find your perfect Cabo vacation home From secluded retreats to vibrant escapes, these Los Cabos luxury hotels offer a  blend of luxury, attentive service and incredible views. Ready to keep that vacation vibe going by owning your own piece of this paradise? Pacaso can help you find the best

Do you dream of sun-soaked days on the beaches of Mexico? Buying property in Mexico isn’t as difficult as you might think. Instead of uprooting your life to move abroad, co-ownership allows you to enjoy the benefits of owning property in Mexico without the full-time commitment. Let’s walk through the 10-step process of owning your own piece of paradise. 1. Find a property you love Whether you're seeking to 2. Make an offer  Once you’ve found the right property and determined how much you’ll offer the seller, your real estate agent can assist you in drafting a formal offer letter. It will include details such as the purchase price, terms and conditions. Be prepared to include an earnest money deposit to show your commitment to the purchase.  Remember that the seller may choose to counter your offer, so be ready for potential negotiations until you both reach an agreement. 3. Agree on terms and sign the sales contract Once you and the seller have agreed on the purchase price and terms, it’s time to formalize the sale with an official sales contract. This contract will outline all of the purchase details, including the purchase price, closing date, financing terms and any contingencies.  Be sure to carefully review the contract with a real estate attorney to ensure your legal rights are fully protected. Once both parties sign the contract, you’ll be officially committed to buying real estate in Mexico.   If the property is a Pacaso second home, we handle all of the logistics for a smooth purchasing process.  4. Pay a deposit  Once you’ve signed the sales contract, you’ll likely need to pay an earnest money deposit, which is typically around 10% of the purchase price. The deposit is a sign of your intent to purchase the property and is held in escrow by a neutral third party.  Once the home sale closes successfully, the deposit is applied toward your down payment. If you fail to complete the purchase for any reason, you may have to forfeit your deposit. Be sure to consult with your real estate agent to understand Mexico's exact deposit requirements and procedures. 5. Set up a If you’re buying a property located in a restricted zone (50 kilometers from the Mexican coast or 100 kilometers from a U.S. border), you must establish a 6. Get permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Once you’ve established a fideicomiso, you’ll also need permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to complete your purchase. This is another requirement for foreigners buying property in Mexico in restricted zones.  Typically, you must submit documentation related to your identity, the property you’re purchasing and the fideicomiso. Lean on your real estate agent to help prepare the proper paperwork and navigate the application process.  7. Conduct due diligence checks and title review Before purchasing, you’ll want to conduct a few due diligence checks. Have a lawyer review the property’s title, conduct a valuation and verify that all necessary legal documents are in order. Once all parties are in agreement, the documents can be notarized. Due diligence checks are crucial to protect your purchase and avoid any potential legal issues.   8. Sign the Once due diligence is complete, you’re ready to sign the 9. Pay taxes and fees After you officially close, you’ll need to pay any remaining costs, like taxes and fees associated with the property purchase. These costs typically include property registration fees, stamp duty and any other relevant Mexican taxes. Be sure to budget for these expenses beforehand so you know you have the funds to cover them when the time comes.  If you’re purchasing a second home, it’s also wise to understand 10. Finalize registration of ownership The last step to buying property in Mexico is to finalize the registration of ownership in your name. This involves submitting the proper documents to the local land registry office and paying any remaining fees. Once the registration is complete, you’ll officially own your chosen property in Mexico.  Be sure to secure a copy of the property title so you have proof of ownership for your records. You’ll also need this document if you decide to sell your property.   Where to find properties in Mexico When searching for the perfect Mexican property, consider exploring popular regions known for their beauty, amenities and way of life. Some popular areas include: You’ll want to factor in your stage of life when deciding on a property location. For example, the For a truly seamless buying process, partner with Pacaso. Our team of experts can guide you through every step, from finding the best property to handling all the legal complexities.   Average price of properties in Mexico The average price of a home in Mexico varies by region. According to Taxes and fees you can expect to pay Whether you’re buying The table below outlines some common taxes and fees associated with property ownership in Mexico: Challenges of buying property in Mexico While there are many benefits to buying property in Mexico, be aware of the potential challenges that may arise. Here are some key areas to consider: International home buying made easy with Pacaso Buying property in Mexico can be exciting and rewarding, offering your own retreat abroad and another place to call home. By following the steps above and working with qualified professionals, you can confidently navigate the process. For a truly seamless international home buying experience, consider

Wondering about the best place to buy a vacation home? We’ve analyzed destinations based on factors like safety, walkability and weather to deliver 25 great places to buy a vacation home. Let’s dive into the top 10, plus we’ll share how to enjoy a luxurious vacation home without the hassles of solo ownership. 1. Hudson, New York Hudson, located in the Hudson Valley, offers a charming escape brimming with history and artistry. Rolling hills surround the town, providing a picturesque natural backdrop and making it a wonderful place for a second home. Beyond its natural beauty, Hudson boasts a rich history and an eclectic arts scene. Explore the historic architecture of Warren Street, a charming main street lined with 18th and 19th-century buildings. Visit Art galleries showcase the works of local and regional artists, while music venues and theaters host a variety of performances. Foodies will delight in the farm-to-table cuisine offered by the many restaurants that showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients from the surrounding Hudson Valley. Speaking of seasons, Hudson's high comfort index of 9.1 suggests a pleasant climate with mild temperatures that most people will find enjoyable year-round. 2. Portsmouth, New Hampshire Portsmouth is a gem for those seeking to Beyond its rich past, Portsmouth is a vacation destination for all seasons. Summer brings the This city has a 9.2 comfort index similar to that of nearby Hudson, New York. The safety score of 2 indicates that Portsmouth may be a safer — although more expensive — vacation home destination.  3. Sandusky, Ohio Located on one of the Great Lakes, Sandusky is a great destination for water enthusiasts. Multiple water parks options cater to all preferences. Sandusky has a bustling tourist season, so consider the 4. San Diego, California San Diego basks in sunshine, making it ideal for those who crave a warm-weather escape. This coastal city offers a plethora of outdoor activities and stunning beaches amidst a relaxed When considering a vacation home in San Diego, remember that neighborhoods offer distinct experiences. La Jolla boasts luxurious beachfront living, while Pacific Beach provides a lively atmosphere close to the beach. Mission Beach offers a classic boardwalk experience, and Coronado Island delivers a charming island getaway.  Don’t let the median home sale price scare you. A 9.22 cap rate in San Diego indicates that those looking to purchase real estate are likely to gain a good amount of equity in Southern California. 5. Cape Cod, Massachusetts Summer is peak season, bustling with activity and offering the warmest weather. Shoulder seasons provide comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Choose a village close to the beach if you crave a vibrant summer atmosphere. If tranquility is your priority, consider a more secluded spot. Cape Cod's safety score and comfort index tell us that it is a great place to bring the kids as the seasons change. 6. Harbor Springs, Michigan On the shore of Lake Michigan, Harbor Springs offers an escape that transforms throughout the year. When considering a vacation home in Harbor Springs, remember that the town offers a variety of settings. The core village, centered around Main Street, bustles with shops and restaurants, while the surrounding areas, like Wequetonsing and Bay Harbor, provide a more secluded atmosphere.  Lakefront property on Little Traverse Bay offers stunning views and water access, while tucked-away cabins near Hidden Lake offer peaceful retreats. With the highest safety score possible, Harbor Springs is a prime destination for 7. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin Wisconsin Dells, also known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," is a Midwest Take a break from water slides to explore the Dells' breathtaking natural beauty. Kayak or canoe down the Wisconsin River, spelunk in scenic caves or hike through towering sandstone cliffs at The Dells also boasts a bustling downtown with shops, restaurants and family-friendly entertainment options like 8. Healdsburg, California Healdsburg offers a compelling blend of sophistication, world-class wineries and outdoor adventure — making it a romantic destination for wine lovers seeking a California retreat. Located in the middle of Explore rolling vineyards by bike, indulge in wine tastings at boutique wineries, or take a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking aerial views. The area also boasts plenty of A high comfort index lets you know that you can enjoy plenty of days outdoors if you buy a vacation home here. A higher safety score also indicates this is a family-friendly destination in the heart of Wine Country. 9. Ocean City, Maryland Ocean City is an attractive vacation home destination with its vibrant three-mile boardwalk and a family-friendly atmosphere. Beyond the iconic boardwalk with its amusement rides, arcades and delicious treats, Ocean City offers a variety of things to do. Thrill-seekers can tackle the waves at Nature lovers can explore the nearby Although it has a lower safety score, the relatively high comfort index indicates that Ocean City is a good place to own an off-season beach house for those looking to be further away from the boardwalk. 10. Bend, Oregon Bend is an outdoor paradise offering a great blend of adventure, craft beer culture and stunning natural beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts seeking more active vacations will love this vacation home destination. Surrounded by towering ponderosa pines and majestic mountains, Bend caters to all seasons. Hike or bike well-marked trails, explore cascading waterfalls like Deschutes Falls, or go whitewater rafting down the Deschutes River. Bend also boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings. Foodies will delight in the town's innovative restaurants, many featuring locally sourced ingredients. Summer, spring and fall offer comfortable weather for exploring. With so many hikes and winter sports activities available, a car is necessary to enjoy all that Bend offers. A higher safety score means peace of mind while hitting the slopes or exploring the charming downtown. Top 25 best places to buy a vacation home Co-own a vacation home with Pacaso If you want to own a vacation home but are worried about the commitment and expense, Pacaso offers a revolutionary approach to second home ownership. Pacaso Pacaso takes care of everything: professional home design and furnishings, property management and, maintenance, and easy online scheduling. You spend your time relaxing and creating memories in your dream destination. Methodology Here are the factors we used to analyze 100 cities and find the 25 best places to buy a vacation home.

Whether you’re From gourmet seafood to classic California cuisine using fresh, local ingredients, we've rounded up 13 beachside restaurants that can take any Santa Barbara stay to the next level, and we've ordered them from most affordable to most expensive: 1. On The Alley Tucked away near the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 2. Chad’s  With an enviable location adjacent to Santa Barbara Harbor, 3. Shoreline Beach Cafe   Grabbing a bite to eat before a day spent at the beach is easy when your restaurant of choice is literally on the beach. 4. Santa Barbara Shellfish Company You can’t get more waterfront than dining on a pier! 5. Boathouse at Hendry's Beach For sunset cocktails, a romantic dinner or a celebratory evening, book a table at the 6. Moby Dick 7. Brophy Bros Enjoy American cuisine overlooking the Santa Barbara Marina at 8. Bluewater Grill Specializing in seafood and local cuisine, 9. Tydes Enjoy indoor-outdoor fine dining at If you can see yourself enjoying all that Santa Barbara has to offer — including its rapidly growing food scene — consider owning your own 10. Padaro Beach Grill 11. Bella Vista 12. Toma Restaurant & Bar Open for dinner only, the award-winning 13. OKU Restaurant Savor the good life Want to turn Santa Barbara into your go-to vacation destination? Become a co-owner of a beautiful

No matter the season, the town of Bend in Central Oregon is simply bursting with 1. Discover Oregon WinterFest  Hosted in Bend every February, the three-day 2. Hit the slopes  Bend is a jumping-off point for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The town is just 30 minutes from 3. Go ice skating  Lace up your skates and choose from multiple ice rinks around town. 4. Take a dog sled ride Mush! Mush! Take a sled dog tour through snowy meadows with incredible mountain views. 5. Warm up at a family-friendly brewery  Bend regularly tops lists of cities with the most (and most delicious) breweries, and luckily for parents, many of them are family-friendly. Choose from close to two dozen breweries including the well known Find your family’s second home in Bend There’s no better place to make family memories than in a

Ideally located south of West Palm Beach and north of vibrant urban hubs like Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Delray Beach offers a melting pot of food cultures and styles.  Whether you’re looking for a casual spot to gather with friends, the perfect date night destination or you just want to sample something new, these six Delray Beach restaurants are yours for the taking.  City Oyster & Sushi Bar  Calling all seafood lovers. This downtown restaurant serves up an ever-changing menu of fresh oysters from both the East Coast and West Coast. It’s the perfect date night restaurant, thanks to a huge wine list, full sushi menu and plenty of ambience — the decor at Cabana El Ray  The greater Miami area is simply bursting with Cuban culture, and in Delray Beach, Dada Every visit to Papa’s Tapas  If you’re the kind of person who wants to try a little bit of everything instead of committing to one entree, head to El Camino  Satisfy your craving for flavorful Mexican fare at Lionfish  The Delray Beach outpost of the famous Lionfish Seafood restaurant in San Diego, Dine anytime in Delray Beach As the co-owner of a luxury