Location

• La Paz is the capitol city of the Mexican state Baja California Sur, located on the Baja Peninsula just south of the United States and west of Mexico's mainland. The commercial port city is located on a large bay on the Sea of Cortez, also named the Gulf of California. The state of Baja California Sur rests on the eastern side of the Baja Peninsula. The city is close to several Baja islands, including El Espirito Santo, La Partida and Los Islotes.
  
  

Population

• La Paz has a population of over 200,000, people according to the travel website Destinations: La Paz Mexico--Baja. The increase in population can be attributed to Mexicans from poorer southern states seeking better pay and a higher standard of living. La Paz is considered one of the top places to retire by CNN Money, in the web article "Best Places to Retire--La Paz, Baja Mexico." According to the article, American retirees are attracted to La Paz by it's natural beauty and affordability based on the United States dollar.
  
  

Weather

• Summer months are extremely hot with average temperatures in the 90s, but cooler near the coast. Summer nights are cooler due to the Caromuel winds, a weather phenomenon unique to the La Paz area. These winds from the Pacific ocean blow over La Paz, creating moderate temperatures at night. The winters are cool and windy, with highs in 60s and lows in the 20s. Hurricane season starts in late August and continues through September. According to Mexonline.com's Guide to Weather and Climate in Mexico, the best months to experience less heat and wind are October to November and April to May.
  
  

Economy

• La Paz, Mexico's economy still includes fishing.paz image by Mario Pereira from Fotolia.com
  
  Tourism is a major industry for the city and serves as a significant source of income for La Paz. According to the Bajatravel.com's web page, La Paz Travel Guide, eco- tourism is paramount due to the natural resources and diverse native marine life in the area that attract divers and snorkelers. Another tourist attraction is the malecon, a seaside promenade that offers shopping, nightlife and entertainment. There are several museums, theaters and other cultural pursuits that draw visitors to the region all year round. Additional industries include silver mining, agriculture, fishing and pearls.
  
  

Education

• La Paz has an extensive education system that is accessible to most residents, even people who reside in the rural areas. According to Mexicolapaz.com's city guide, rural residents can obtain a basic education in rural school houses, adult basic education centers and community reading rooms. La Paz has the most higher learning institutions in Northwest Mexico. The Autonomous University of Southern Baja California, Regional Technological Institute, Pedagogic University, State School of Music and Interdisciplinary Center of Marine Science are some of the major universities in the region.
  
  

History

• La Paz, Mexico's history can be traced back 10,000 years when hunters and gathers occupied the Baja Peninsula. Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortez attempted to settle the land in the 1500s, but left shortly after due to lack of food, water and attacks from the natives. Spanish explorer Sebastián Vizcaíno arrived in 1596 and gave the city its name, La Paz. The city became a settlement in 1811, and became state capitol in 1829, according to MEXonline.com's web page, La Paz History.