And I have been privileged to meet and converse with some fascinating women this trip. I marvel at the number of single women travelers and locals between the ages of 60 and 85. It was serendipitous that I landed in Zihua or Zihuantanejo, the name derived from the Nahautl word “Zihuatlan”, which means land of women. Murals and statues of local women grace the Malecon and walkways throughout the city.
Perhaps it is not surprising there are bountiful numbers of robust, adventuresome older women. 49% of U.S. women over the age of 65 live single and they are exploring the world and diversifying their social networks with gusto. Social scientists have long documented ways in which many older women blossom after widowhood, divorce and grief as they learn new skills, develop strong social ties and boost personal growth.
Research has shown that people who interact with a diverse social portfolio report greater life satisfaction and a more varied social network is a stronger predictor of subjective wellbeing than being married.
Who are these women I have had the good fortune to meet and interact with and how did I meet them:
Lynda from Saskatchewan, Canada. A retired RN who flew into Uranium mines in northern Canada working a week on, a week off. Now retired spending several winter months in Mexico. We met swimming and snorkeling at a small cove in Zihua.
Maggie a 25-year resident of Zihuantanejo, Mexico. A retired language interpreter for the United Nations. We met on a snorkeling cruise.
Judy from the Chicago area and lifelong friend of Jill who now resides in Zihuatanejo. We met at the local pozole restaurant where Judy shared her 13-year courageous battle with cancer and is now finishing another and possibly final bout of chemo. She was determined to spend time in Mexico with her lifelong friend.
Lori, a 13-year resident of Barra de Potosi and mover and shaker behind El Nido guest house and community center where I stayed for a week. Lori has also started a sewing collectivo for local women.
Laura, 30-year resident of Barra de Potosi, creator and owner of Casa Del Encanto where I spent another 10 days. A former PI from California she settled in Barra when there was no infrastructure or paved roads and created a truly enchanted Mexican B and B.
An all women family who were my neighbors at El Nido. The abulita of the family, pictured with two of her daughters and grand daughters had 10 children.
Gila in her 80s and my house mate at El Nido in Barra de Potosi. Gila travels to this little fishing village several times a year to escape California and the U.S. and relishes the simple village life.
Each of these women are gracefully moving through various stages of life on their own terms, living with adventure and vibrancy. Each has an interesting story. They are truly inspirational.
