1

Somewhere in the Yucatan or Chiapas near the water not horribly touristy?

San Felipe, Yucatan
Puerto Arista, Chiapas

2

What does OP mean by "very nice place?" Are such places available in Puerto Arista? I "envision" it as a sort of "basic, backpacker" kind of destination, but I really don't know. Am trying to get a "handle" on Puerto Arista myself.

3

Thanks for the suggestions, Cascade Bob.

In response to geriande, who correctly points out my ambiguous language: by "very nice place," I mean a situation that is on par with the accommodation you might find in a middle class to upper middle class home in the United States. Usually, I have rented from expats or wealthy locals when I have found this kind of accommodation. For instance, my hands-down favorite writing spot was in Salvador de Bahia, Brasil: condo with built in cabinets with view of ocean, pool, sauna and doorman. Pricey at 800 USD (in Argentina, I found an awesome place in Palermo Viejo for 400 USD) but every penny well spent. I rented from a Frenchman who had used the condo when he first moved down there to court his wife. It was a dream bachelor pad.

Since I live by writing, I spend a chunk of my time indoors. It would be too unpleasant to stay in basic, backpacker places. Tried it. Hated it. This way takes planning and, almost always, you have to commit to staying for at least a month but you get a lot of value. So, yes, I'm asking for something that is elusive but, in my experience, totally do-able. And thank you, Thorn Tree friends, for any suggestions.

4

Take a look at the coast near Merida or perhaps Celestun area.

5

The coast near Merida is a good suggestion, depending on the time of year you go. Often Merida families maintain nice homes along the coast for use during the summer months but rent them out the rest of the year. Sometimes at a good price.

6

Have a look to Valle de Bravo or even better, nearby Avandaro. There you could find nice houses like the ones you describe in Palemo Viejo and Salvador de Bahia. It's located in Central Mexico (1 and /2 hours drive from Mexico City) close to a lake, with very good infraestructure regarding restaurants, coffe shops, boats, horse riding and the surroundings and views are very nice. Very peaceful, except on weekends.

7

There are some absolutely beautiful houses for rent on the Caribbean coast near Mahahual; some stunning and in splendid isolation - have a look at this site: http://www.homeaway.co.uk. They are not cheap, but look pretty damn good value for what you get :-) I will be renting one of these next year - though sadly not for two months . . .

8

I think you should consider the colonial highlands in central Michoacan. At 7,200 feet, the air around Lake Patzcuaro is clear and living is easy. You can find quiet, secluded homes, perfect for writing. Yet, when you go out, there are activities to take your mind off your writing. It's the best of both worlds. For more info, check out our Yahoo forum at:
The Michoacan Net
Supporting the Arts in Michoacan
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Michoacan_net/

9

Far from water, but you might look into San Cristobal de Las Casas. Beautiful town. May be a bit chilly in the winter though. Not sure when you are going.

10

I would suggest Yelapa, which is a gorgeous fishing village only accessible by boat located just south of Puerto Vallarta. It's the perfect place for a writer's getaway.

11

These are all great suggestions. Thanks to everybody who helped me. You guys are brilliant!

12

well, hope you come back later and tell us what your selection was and how it went...

Good luck!!