Bacalar – a name of Mayan origin, probably from the original b'ak halal, "surrounded by reeds" - is a place where history, nature and comfortable relaxation come together. Within Mexico Real Estate, Bacalar presents an excellent option for retirement, or a quiet place to live, and really "get away from it all."  While the town dates back to the Mayan civilization before the Spanish conquest, it is currently still only a village of less than 10,000 people. The quaint village, which has been officially named a "Pueblo Magico" – "Magic Town," a distinction given to only the most picturesque and historic towns in various parts of Mexico – also provides close contact to the areas surrounding nature. The town is ideal for a Mexico Retirement.  Those who enjoy sailing will fall in love with Bacalar Lagoon, the lake on which the town is located. Many residents enjoy life on this lake in anything from comfortable little cottages to luxury homes. As this video shows, the town is surrounded by jungle; this area of Mexico contains some of the most diverse wildlife. The town itself, and the homes people have here integrate the area's native trees and plants into beautiful landscape designs.  The area is teeming with places to visit, including many Mayan ruins, and the Fortress of San Felipe, which completed in 1729, to fend off pirates raiding from the Caribbean, and the city of Chetumal. Chetumal, only a short drive away, includes an international airport, several new malls, with large screen movie theaters, and a couple of large grocery stores.  TOPMexicoRealEstate.com; Mexico's Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely