Centro Cristiano Nuevo Amanecer / New Dawn Center
Sierra Aconcagua #111
Phone: (322) 223-2020
Christian Interdenominacional Church
Lateral Libramiento #332
Phone: (322) 222-4019
Iglesia Adventista del Séptimo Día / Seventh Day Adventist Church Iglesia
Roma #188
Phone: (322) 224-8422
Iglesia Apostólica de la Fe en Cristo / Apostolic Church-Faith in Christ
Costa Rica #1422
Iglesia de la Virgen de Talpa / Virgen of Talpa Church
Plaza Central Sur #167
Phone: (322) 224-1323
Iglesia Eben-Ezer
Juan Escutia #301
Phone: (322) 224-2630
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
271 Milan, Colonia Versalles
La Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos Días / Church of Latter Day Saints
Emiliano Zapata #420 Col. Valentín Gómez Farías
La luz del mundo / Light of the World
Col. Hermosa Provincia
Phone: (322) 224-8273
Parroquia de la Santa Cruz / Sacred Cross Parish
Aguacate 233, Col. Emiliano Zapata
Phone: (322) 222-0989
Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Refugio / Our Lady of the Refuge Parish
Esquina de Perú y Argentina
Phone: (322) 222-4980
Parroquia de San Miguel-Arcangel
Esquina de Independencia y Zapata
Phone: (322) 224-2053
Parroquia de San Rafael / San Rafael Parish
Jamaica s/n, Col. Lázaro Cárdenas
Phone: (322) 222-2440
Parroquia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez 207, Col. Ixtapa Centro
Perdon y Amistad Church
Candelaria # 143, Barrio Sta Maria
Primera Iglesia Bautista
Argentina # 181 en el Parque Hidalgo
Phone: (322) 222-1722 & (322) 223-1322
Templo del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús / Sacred Heart of Jesus Church
Plaza Paritzica # 17 Col. Aramara
Phone: (322) 224-0329
Testigo de Jehová / Jehovah’s Witnesses
Libramiento #244
Worship in Paradise
Pulpito 127, Old Town
Phone: (322) 225-6571
First Baptist Christain Church
Downtown
181 Argentina
Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe / Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
Downtown
Miguel Hidalgo 370, Col. Centro
Phone: (322) 222-1326
Monday, May 30, 2011
Do you have anything you want to sell, rent, change or publish? Or are there any services you need?
11759
Beautiful Studio for rent / Amapas
Ocean view, terrace, furnish, a/c, kitchen, washer- dryer, cable , internet
Walking distance to beach, 5 min from town. $6,900.00 pesos per month long term, contact Eduardo Cel. (045) 5518328344
11611
BEAUTIFUL SPACIOUS NEWLY DECORATED 2 bedroom 1 bath apartments with all amenities. All with gorgeous Ocean View or Mountain views Penthouse 2 bedroom 2 bath upon availability. Long and short term.
From $6,500 pesos monthly sorrentovallartapv@hotmail.com
11758
Condominios Portofino, furnished 2 BR/2BA Ocean View, washer/dryer, dishwasher, beautiful pool & beach, gym, tennis courts, walk to Marina, $1,400 U.S. monthly long term only. 209-0306
SHOP LOCAL! The Old Town Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 10 am - 2 pm until june 4th. Drop by for a great selection of locally grown produce, artisan foods, arts and crafts. The Market is located at Pulpito #127 - across from Coco’s Kitchen.
One bedroom, one bath condo in 6 plex in Bucerias. Canadian owned. 2nd floor w/balcony. A/C 5 min. walk to beach. $150,00000 USD Ricardo (329) 298-1235
Beautiful Studio for rent / Amapas
Ocean view, terrace, furnish, a/c, kitchen, washer- dryer, cable , internet
Walking distance to beach, 5 min from town. $6,900.00 pesos per month long term, contact Eduardo Cel. (045) 5518328344
11611
BEAUTIFUL SPACIOUS NEWLY DECORATED 2 bedroom 1 bath apartments with all amenities. All with gorgeous Ocean View or Mountain views Penthouse 2 bedroom 2 bath upon availability. Long and short term.
From $6,500 pesos monthly sorrentovallartapv@hotmail.com
11758
Condominios Portofino, furnished 2 BR/2BA Ocean View, washer/dryer, dishwasher, beautiful pool & beach, gym, tennis courts, walk to Marina, $1,400 U.S. monthly long term only. 209-0306
SHOP LOCAL! The Old Town Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 10 am - 2 pm until june 4th. Drop by for a great selection of locally grown produce, artisan foods, arts and crafts. The Market is located at Pulpito #127 - across from Coco’s Kitchen.
One bedroom, one bath condo in 6 plex in Bucerias. Canadian owned. 2nd floor w/balcony. A/C 5 min. walk to beach. $150,00000 USD Ricardo (329) 298-1235
12 Step Meetings
Most meetings in English are held at
Basilio Badillo 329 in the South Side unless otherwise indicated.
The current schedule is posted on the door), or call 222-3906, 222- 2521, 209-0746 evenings
AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) Open
Meetings: Daily 9am & 6:30pm, Sun. 11 am
AA Women: Thurs. 10:30 am
AA Men Closed, 8 p.m. Thursday
Al-ANON: Mon. and Fri 6:30 pm. Step Study Sat. 9 am. All 12 step people
welcome!
NA/Narcotics Anonymous: Daily 5 pm English speaking meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are now being held Monday to Friday at both 8 am and 8 pm at 1712 Francisco Medina Ascencio in the Hotel Zone. There is also an AA meeting on Wednesdays at 5 pm.
We are across the street from Mega Commercial and the Sheraton hotel, right next to (south of) the main TelCel customer service offi ce on the second fl oor next to the University English Teachers Institute.
CODA Step Sisters: Tuesday 6:30 pm
Nic. Anonymous: Monday 9 am ARTS (a 12 step program for creative
people): Tues. 8pm (Bill 222-5711) OA/Over Eaters Anonymous: Tuesday,
5 pm
OUTLYING AREAS
NUEVO VALLARTA:
Mon. Wed. Fri. 6 p.m. Vallarta time In Paradise Plaza upper level follow
signage to US Consul, to ´door with notice ´Friends of Bill W¨.
Contact: Adriana (322) 297-0064
LO DE MARCOS:
AA, 10 am, Emiliano Zapata 37, contact Judy (327)-275-0328
Basilio Badillo 329 in the South Side unless otherwise indicated.
The current schedule is posted on the door), or call 222-3906, 222- 2521, 209-0746 evenings
AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) Open
Meetings: Daily 9am & 6:30pm, Sun. 11 am
AA Women: Thurs. 10:30 am
AA Men Closed, 8 p.m. Thursday
Al-ANON: Mon. and Fri 6:30 pm. Step Study Sat. 9 am. All 12 step people
welcome!
NA/Narcotics Anonymous: Daily 5 pm English speaking meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are now being held Monday to Friday at both 8 am and 8 pm at 1712 Francisco Medina Ascencio in the Hotel Zone. There is also an AA meeting on Wednesdays at 5 pm.
We are across the street from Mega Commercial and the Sheraton hotel, right next to (south of) the main TelCel customer service offi ce on the second fl oor next to the University English Teachers Institute.
CODA Step Sisters: Tuesday 6:30 pm
Nic. Anonymous: Monday 9 am ARTS (a 12 step program for creative
people): Tues. 8pm (Bill 222-5711) OA/Over Eaters Anonymous: Tuesday,
5 pm
OUTLYING AREAS
NUEVO VALLARTA:
Mon. Wed. Fri. 6 p.m. Vallarta time In Paradise Plaza upper level follow
signage to US Consul, to ´door with notice ´Friends of Bill W¨.
Contact: Adriana (322) 297-0064
LO DE MARCOS:
AA, 10 am, Emiliano Zapata 37, contact Judy (327)-275-0328
Expats In Vallarta
The purpose of the group is informal fellowship and assistance for expat residents or visitors living, working or investing around Vallarta or considering it. There is no membership fee or requirement; pay only for what you consume or use.
We have monthly Happy Hours at various restaurants in the Puerto Vallarta area and Wine and Appetizer evenings in members’ homes several times a month.
Contact for more information: sarajwise@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.expatsinvallarta.com/
River Café Live
Entertainment Schedule
9:30 am- 12pm Every Day - Harp 12pm-2:45pm Every Day
- Harp and Guitar
7:00pm-9:45pm Sun-Mon-Tue -
Harp and Guitar
7:30pm – 10:30pm
Wed-Thu-Fri-Sat
Live Blues -Jazz
SHOP LOCAL! The Old Town Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 10 am - 2 pm until june 4th. Drop by for a great selection of locally grown produce, artisan foods, arts and crafts. The Market is located at Pulpito #127 - across from Coco’s Kitchen.
Mercado Emiliano Zapata
The Market in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta, named after the Colonia in which it is located, is a great alternative to the likes of Wal-Mart or Soriana. It´s a typical Mexican market offering a large variety of fresh fruits and veggies, butcher shops, fish-markets, dairy products including an ample selection of cheeses and general groceries. The Market usually closes by mid-afternoon.
Live Music at the Blue Shrimp
Thur-Sunday starting at 6:30pm
Great tunes, awesome view and terrific food
We have monthly Happy Hours at various restaurants in the Puerto Vallarta area and Wine and Appetizer evenings in members’ homes several times a month.
Contact for more information: sarajwise@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.expatsinvallarta.com/
River Café Live
Entertainment Schedule
9:30 am- 12pm Every Day - Harp 12pm-2:45pm Every Day
- Harp and Guitar
7:00pm-9:45pm Sun-Mon-Tue -
Harp and Guitar
7:30pm – 10:30pm
Wed-Thu-Fri-Sat
Live Blues -Jazz
SHOP LOCAL! The Old Town Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 10 am - 2 pm until june 4th. Drop by for a great selection of locally grown produce, artisan foods, arts and crafts. The Market is located at Pulpito #127 - across from Coco’s Kitchen.
Mercado Emiliano Zapata
The Market in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta, named after the Colonia in which it is located, is a great alternative to the likes of Wal-Mart or Soriana. It´s a typical Mexican market offering a large variety of fresh fruits and veggies, butcher shops, fish-markets, dairy products including an ample selection of cheeses and general groceries. The Market usually closes by mid-afternoon.
Live Music at the Blue Shrimp
Thur-Sunday starting at 6:30pm
Great tunes, awesome view and terrific food
No to Low
The snow birds have returned to the north and we are in the midst of what is known as “Low Season.” But the good people at Paradise Community Center have declared this as “No to Low” season. Every couple of weeks they are opening their doors, stage and kitchens for an evening of good food, good drinks, good entertainment and good friends.
This past week, about a hundred people, mostly full time residents of Puerto Vallarta, enjoyed a “Western Roundup” at the center, featuring live entertainment by Rocky Rivers, a Nashville recording artist, and recorded music provided by DJ Stacy, who is also a line dance instructor. The theme menu for the evening included a choice of sloppy joe or pulled pork (donated by Carnes del Mundo) sandwiches accompanied by potato salad, beans and cole slaw. Also available was chicken and fish satay with peanut sauce. Of course, there was an assortment of cold beverages available, and at Book and Bean they had coffees and tea as well as desserts.
To add to the atmosphere of the evening, peanuts were placed on the tables, and videos of The Lone Ranger and Tonto, and Roy Rogers with Dale Evens and Andy Devine were shown. After dinner, Stacy held a dance class, and taught several dozen people a number of line dancing steps.
In future weeks, the community center will have more theme nights with food and entertainment. Coming soon will be “Latin Fever” night, featuring guitarist Eduardo Leon, who received a standing ovation a few weeks ago at Cabaret Concert night. This will be followed by “Italian Night,” and on July 2nd, there will be a BBQ to celebrate Canada Day and US Independence Day complete with a Rock & Roll band. In mid-July they are planning an “Asian Night” and the beginning of August will see a “Classical Night.”
These theme nights, sponsored by the Paradise Community Center, do more than bring people together for food, entertainment and fun. Funds raised from ticket sales, food and beverage sales, and a 50/50 raffle are put to good use in feeding children and mothers. The center, under the name Compassionet Impact, in partnership with New Beginnings, provides between 700 and 800 meals every week to less fortunate people.
The community center holds the Farmers Market every Saturday morning, the Worship in Paradise Church services on Sunday mornings, the Book and Bean Coffee Shop and book exchange 7 days a week, and recently added Alexander hair salon. It is located on Pulpito, across the street from Coco’s Kitchen and the former Kit Kat.
The Paradise Community Center, with its modular stage that can be configured for almost any type of event or situation, a good lighting system and a wonderful sound system, is becoming the place to find good entertainment, good food at reasonable prices, and a place to mingle with friends during what some people call “low season.” But here we call it “No to Low” season. This is a place for full time residents to enjoy the summer months, and with fewer people in town, the availability of nearby parking.
This past week, about a hundred people, mostly full time residents of Puerto Vallarta, enjoyed a “Western Roundup” at the center, featuring live entertainment by Rocky Rivers, a Nashville recording artist, and recorded music provided by DJ Stacy, who is also a line dance instructor. The theme menu for the evening included a choice of sloppy joe or pulled pork (donated by Carnes del Mundo) sandwiches accompanied by potato salad, beans and cole slaw. Also available was chicken and fish satay with peanut sauce. Of course, there was an assortment of cold beverages available, and at Book and Bean they had coffees and tea as well as desserts.
To add to the atmosphere of the evening, peanuts were placed on the tables, and videos of The Lone Ranger and Tonto, and Roy Rogers with Dale Evens and Andy Devine were shown. After dinner, Stacy held a dance class, and taught several dozen people a number of line dancing steps.
In future weeks, the community center will have more theme nights with food and entertainment. Coming soon will be “Latin Fever” night, featuring guitarist Eduardo Leon, who received a standing ovation a few weeks ago at Cabaret Concert night. This will be followed by “Italian Night,” and on July 2nd, there will be a BBQ to celebrate Canada Day and US Independence Day complete with a Rock & Roll band. In mid-July they are planning an “Asian Night” and the beginning of August will see a “Classical Night.”
These theme nights, sponsored by the Paradise Community Center, do more than bring people together for food, entertainment and fun. Funds raised from ticket sales, food and beverage sales, and a 50/50 raffle are put to good use in feeding children and mothers. The center, under the name Compassionet Impact, in partnership with New Beginnings, provides between 700 and 800 meals every week to less fortunate people.
The community center holds the Farmers Market every Saturday morning, the Worship in Paradise Church services on Sunday mornings, the Book and Bean Coffee Shop and book exchange 7 days a week, and recently added Alexander hair salon. It is located on Pulpito, across the street from Coco’s Kitchen and the former Kit Kat.
The Paradise Community Center, with its modular stage that can be configured for almost any type of event or situation, a good lighting system and a wonderful sound system, is becoming the place to find good entertainment, good food at reasonable prices, and a place to mingle with friends during what some people call “low season.” But here we call it “No to Low” season. This is a place for full time residents to enjoy the summer months, and with fewer people in town, the availability of nearby parking.
Puerto Vallarta passes US Agency´s Safety Assessment
New York, May 26, 2011 –The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board appointed Thomas Dale & Associates to study the safety standards in Puerto Vallarta. The report concludes that Vallarta continues to be amongst the safest beach vacation destinations.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico´s second most visited beach resort area is an annual vacation destination for millions of visitors from around the world. Thomas Dale & Associates (TDA), is a leading global investigative and security firm that lists several Fortune 100 companies amongst its clients.
The international security company visited Puerto Vallarta between April 6 to April 13 to conduct interviews and a thorough security and safety risk assessment. A comprehensive report in relation to all aspects of tourist security in the destination has been published, in it; the firm concludes that Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest tourist destinations for international and national tourists.
TDA individually interviewed domestic as well as international tourists, American and Canadian Consuls, retired ex-pats, time-share members, part-time residents, seasonal boaters, business owners, hospital administrators, gay community business representatives, health insurance professionals, cabbies, conventioneers, and honeymooners. The interviews were followed up by requests to local law enforcement sources for crime data and department deployment. The Civil Protection Department (FIMA) was also consulted regarding natural disasters.
The interviews focused on the following three areas; safety in Puerto Vallarta and the perception of its visitors; personal experiences and the US Travel Warning on Mexico.
The study found that the number of negative events involving foreigners or non-foreigners is minimal considering the large ex-pat resident population and the millions of visitors that come to vacation each year in Puerto Vallarta. Overall the study found that visitors feel safe and continue to visit Puerto Vallarta numerous times through their lifetime and that the local support services are well above the average standards and dedicated to serving the visiting public.
In relation to the drug wars, TDA found that the geographical location and surroundings make the smuggling of guns and drugs through Puerto Vallarta very difficult, thus, of no significant negative consequences.
For more information please contact the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board:
Salvador Peña Chávez
Director
Fideicomiso de Turismo Puerto Vallarta, Office (322) 224-1175
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico´s second most visited beach resort area is an annual vacation destination for millions of visitors from around the world. Thomas Dale & Associates (TDA), is a leading global investigative and security firm that lists several Fortune 100 companies amongst its clients.
The international security company visited Puerto Vallarta between April 6 to April 13 to conduct interviews and a thorough security and safety risk assessment. A comprehensive report in relation to all aspects of tourist security in the destination has been published, in it; the firm concludes that Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest tourist destinations for international and national tourists.
TDA individually interviewed domestic as well as international tourists, American and Canadian Consuls, retired ex-pats, time-share members, part-time residents, seasonal boaters, business owners, hospital administrators, gay community business representatives, health insurance professionals, cabbies, conventioneers, and honeymooners. The interviews were followed up by requests to local law enforcement sources for crime data and department deployment. The Civil Protection Department (FIMA) was also consulted regarding natural disasters.
The interviews focused on the following three areas; safety in Puerto Vallarta and the perception of its visitors; personal experiences and the US Travel Warning on Mexico.
The study found that the number of negative events involving foreigners or non-foreigners is minimal considering the large ex-pat resident population and the millions of visitors that come to vacation each year in Puerto Vallarta. Overall the study found that visitors feel safe and continue to visit Puerto Vallarta numerous times through their lifetime and that the local support services are well above the average standards and dedicated to serving the visiting public.
In relation to the drug wars, TDA found that the geographical location and surroundings make the smuggling of guns and drugs through Puerto Vallarta very difficult, thus, of no significant negative consequences.
For more information please contact the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board:
Salvador Peña Chávez
Director
Fideicomiso de Turismo Puerto Vallarta, Office (322) 224-1175
SPCA WEEKLY NEWS
by Janice Gonzalez
NOTICE...CLOSING OF FARMER'S MARKET FOR THE SEASON
June 4 will be the last farmer's market of the season. The first Saturday of November the Market will reopen. Adoptions will continue to be held each Saturday at Biblioteca Los Mangos.
ADORABLE DOG SPOTLIGHT...SHILOH
Shiloh is a 9 month old beagle mix rescued off the street when we received a call from Harry’s Bar informing us that she had been living underneath a car. The poor thing had recently gone into heat and was attracting the local males in the area, so the bartender asked if we could take her.
She was fostered until she was able to join us at the Casita. She is a gentle dog, well behaved and extremely beautiful. She can be a little mistrusting of some males, so we would suggest introducing her slowly and gently to any men in the house.
And Danielle from the Casita adds: "She is a very happy dog, who loves to cuddle up in your lap to take her nap. Her beautiful eyes are hard to resist. Obviously I am very fond of her; I hope you will find her as incredible and loving as I do."
ADORABLE KITTENS SPOTLIGHT
Lots of kittens, all the colors of the rainbow, are currently being fostered by volunteers and friends of the SPCA. How can anyone resist these cute faces?!?! Please help us find them all a forever home.
We have a number of felines of all ages looking for forever homes. They are currently being cared for by a few of our dedicated volunteers and brought to the library each Saturday. If you can’t think about a “forever” home for some of these animals, please do consider fostering. It is a great chance to volunteer and to help rescue the many needy animals in our community. If you can assist, please contact us via our website (www.spcapv.com) or send an email to spcapv@gmail.com.
ADOPTION REPORT
A rather slow day at the Farmer's Market and the library. We were only able to find a home for one of our dogs. Liz was adopted by Thalia Erika Martinez.
Mark McCoy reports a successful sales day, however, of t-shirts and bags!
Thanks to all the volunteers for coming to the Library on this very warm day: Fernando, Amber, Marge, Kelly, Angela, Sandra, Xhuitl and our newest volunteer Maile.
Finally, we are so happy to report that Leah left on Thursday for her new home in California.
Here are some photos of recent adoptions.
To see all the animals available for adoption, visit our website (www.spcapv.com or www.spcapv.blogspot.com). The SPCA PV will continue to host adoption events at both Biblioteca Los Mangos and the Farmer's Market every Saturday from 10am - 2pm.
Biblioteca Los Mangos is located on Francisco Villa around the corner from Costco. The Farmer's Market is being held in Paradise Community Center in Olas Altas.
DESPERATELY SEEKING...
We are still dealing with the outbreak of ringworm at our casita. As a consequence we cannot mix new animals with those infected AND we need to separate the infected animals if we are to get the outbreak under control. Add to that, we have a seasonal increase in puppies and kittens. Therefore we are desperately seeking foster homes.
Treatment of those dogs or puppies infected with the ringworm is fairly simple. They take their medication once a day and after two weeks they should be okay, IF THEY ARE NOT RE-INFECTED BY OTHER ANIMALS. Of course, any potential foster home should not have dogs or cats for danger of them becoming infected.
PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU CAN BE ONE OF OUR ANGELS AND HELP SAVE ONE OF THESE DOGS OR PUPPIES.
Phone: 222-2692
Email: janice@haciendasanangel.com
NOTE: We also need some help to get this outbreak under control. We are asking if anyone has lime sulfur dip or can donate a supply to the SPCA so that we may treat the casita dogs for ringworm.
TOYS NEEDED!!!
With the number of puppies and kittens being fostered we have a shortage of playthings. We are asking our friends to donate some toys for the animals. They can be dropped off Saturdays at the Farmer’s Market and/or Biblioteca Los Mangos, or any day at Hacienda San Angel.
ADOPTION COORDINATOR
We are looking for one or more people who would be willing to commit to alternating Saturdays as the adoption coordinator for the SPCA at Biblioteca Los Mangos.
Currently Judy Peters and Marj Stevenson share the responsibilities, but unfortunately Judy will be leaving soon for four months. We really need to have more than one adoption coordinator so that each can get a break from weekly duties.
If you are interested, please contact the SPCA via email (spcapv@gmail.com) and we will send you more information regarding the duties of the coordinator. Judy is leaving in a few weeks so timing is getting critical.
Photos courtesy of Sandra Briones (www.sandorafoto.com)
NOTICE...CLOSING OF FARMER'S MARKET FOR THE SEASON
June 4 will be the last farmer's market of the season. The first Saturday of November the Market will reopen. Adoptions will continue to be held each Saturday at Biblioteca Los Mangos.
ADORABLE DOG SPOTLIGHT...SHILOH
Shiloh is a 9 month old beagle mix rescued off the street when we received a call from Harry’s Bar informing us that she had been living underneath a car. The poor thing had recently gone into heat and was attracting the local males in the area, so the bartender asked if we could take her.
She was fostered until she was able to join us at the Casita. She is a gentle dog, well behaved and extremely beautiful. She can be a little mistrusting of some males, so we would suggest introducing her slowly and gently to any men in the house.
And Danielle from the Casita adds: "She is a very happy dog, who loves to cuddle up in your lap to take her nap. Her beautiful eyes are hard to resist. Obviously I am very fond of her; I hope you will find her as incredible and loving as I do."
ADORABLE KITTENS SPOTLIGHT
Lots of kittens, all the colors of the rainbow, are currently being fostered by volunteers and friends of the SPCA. How can anyone resist these cute faces?!?! Please help us find them all a forever home.
We have a number of felines of all ages looking for forever homes. They are currently being cared for by a few of our dedicated volunteers and brought to the library each Saturday. If you can’t think about a “forever” home for some of these animals, please do consider fostering. It is a great chance to volunteer and to help rescue the many needy animals in our community. If you can assist, please contact us via our website (www.spcapv.com) or send an email to spcapv@gmail.com.
ADOPTION REPORT
A rather slow day at the Farmer's Market and the library. We were only able to find a home for one of our dogs. Liz was adopted by Thalia Erika Martinez.
Mark McCoy reports a successful sales day, however, of t-shirts and bags!
Thanks to all the volunteers for coming to the Library on this very warm day: Fernando, Amber, Marge, Kelly, Angela, Sandra, Xhuitl and our newest volunteer Maile.
Finally, we are so happy to report that Leah left on Thursday for her new home in California.
Here are some photos of recent adoptions.
To see all the animals available for adoption, visit our website (www.spcapv.com or www.spcapv.blogspot.com). The SPCA PV will continue to host adoption events at both Biblioteca Los Mangos and the Farmer's Market every Saturday from 10am - 2pm.
Biblioteca Los Mangos is located on Francisco Villa around the corner from Costco. The Farmer's Market is being held in Paradise Community Center in Olas Altas.
DESPERATELY SEEKING...
We are still dealing with the outbreak of ringworm at our casita. As a consequence we cannot mix new animals with those infected AND we need to separate the infected animals if we are to get the outbreak under control. Add to that, we have a seasonal increase in puppies and kittens. Therefore we are desperately seeking foster homes.
Treatment of those dogs or puppies infected with the ringworm is fairly simple. They take their medication once a day and after two weeks they should be okay, IF THEY ARE NOT RE-INFECTED BY OTHER ANIMALS. Of course, any potential foster home should not have dogs or cats for danger of them becoming infected.
PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU CAN BE ONE OF OUR ANGELS AND HELP SAVE ONE OF THESE DOGS OR PUPPIES.
Phone: 222-2692
Email: janice@haciendasanangel.com
NOTE: We also need some help to get this outbreak under control. We are asking if anyone has lime sulfur dip or can donate a supply to the SPCA so that we may treat the casita dogs for ringworm.
TOYS NEEDED!!!
With the number of puppies and kittens being fostered we have a shortage of playthings. We are asking our friends to donate some toys for the animals. They can be dropped off Saturdays at the Farmer’s Market and/or Biblioteca Los Mangos, or any day at Hacienda San Angel.
ADOPTION COORDINATOR
We are looking for one or more people who would be willing to commit to alternating Saturdays as the adoption coordinator for the SPCA at Biblioteca Los Mangos.
Currently Judy Peters and Marj Stevenson share the responsibilities, but unfortunately Judy will be leaving soon for four months. We really need to have more than one adoption coordinator so that each can get a break from weekly duties.
If you are interested, please contact the SPCA via email (spcapv@gmail.com) and we will send you more information regarding the duties of the coordinator. Judy is leaving in a few weeks so timing is getting critical.
Photos courtesy of Sandra Briones (www.sandorafoto.com)
Useful Everyday Spanish Phrases
¡Buenos días!
bway-nohs dee-ahs
Hello! / Good morning!
¡Buenas tardes!
bway-nahs tard-ays
Good afternoon!
¡Buenas noches!
bway-nahs noh-chays
Good evening! / Good night!
Adiós.
ah-dee-ohs
Good bye.
Bienvenidos
byen-veh-nee-dohs
Welcome
Por favor.
por fah-bor
Please.
(Muchas) Gracias.
(moo-chahs) grah-see-ahs
Thank you (very much).
De nada.
day nah-dah
You’re welcome.
Hasta la vista
Hasta luego.
ah-stah lah vees-tah
/ ah-stah loo-ay-go
See you / See you later.
Lo siento
loh see-ehn-toh
I’m sorry
Con permiso / Perdón / Disculpe
kohn pehr-mee-soh / pehr-dohn / dees-kool-peh
Excuse me / Pardon me
Sí / No
see / noh
Yes / No
Me llamo... / Mi nombre es...
may yah-moh / mee nohm-breh ess
My name is...
¿Hablas inglés?
ah-blahs een-glehs
Do you speak English?
¿Puedes ayudarme?
pweh-deh ah-yoo-dar-meh
Can you help me?
Claro / Claro que sí
klah-roh / klah-roh keh see
Sure / Of course
If you are a first time visitor to Puerto Vallarta, please remember you are in a different country with very different customs besides just the language itself. Mexican people for the most part are very polite, friendly, quite hospitable and usually have big smile on their face.
Many “gringos” not aware of this, especially the ones that have never been outside “Gringolandia”, sometimes come across as demanding and ridiculing.
A kind word, sincere smile and “muchas gracias” go a long ways here in México.
bway-nohs dee-ahs
Hello! / Good morning!
¡Buenas tardes!
bway-nahs tard-ays
Good afternoon!
¡Buenas noches!
bway-nahs noh-chays
Good evening! / Good night!
Adiós.
ah-dee-ohs
Good bye.
Bienvenidos
byen-veh-nee-dohs
Welcome
Por favor.
por fah-bor
Please.
(Muchas) Gracias.
(moo-chahs) grah-see-ahs
Thank you (very much).
De nada.
day nah-dah
You’re welcome.
Hasta la vista
Hasta luego.
ah-stah lah vees-tah
/ ah-stah loo-ay-go
See you / See you later.
Lo siento
loh see-ehn-toh
I’m sorry
Con permiso / Perdón / Disculpe
kohn pehr-mee-soh / pehr-dohn / dees-kool-peh
Excuse me / Pardon me
Sí / No
see / noh
Yes / No
Me llamo... / Mi nombre es...
may yah-moh / mee nohm-breh ess
My name is...
¿Hablas inglés?
ah-blahs een-glehs
Do you speak English?
¿Puedes ayudarme?
pweh-deh ah-yoo-dar-meh
Can you help me?
Claro / Claro que sí
klah-roh / klah-roh keh see
Sure / Of course
If you are a first time visitor to Puerto Vallarta, please remember you are in a different country with very different customs besides just the language itself. Mexican people for the most part are very polite, friendly, quite hospitable and usually have big smile on their face.
Many “gringos” not aware of this, especially the ones that have never been outside “Gringolandia”, sometimes come across as demanding and ridiculing.
A kind word, sincere smile and “muchas gracias” go a long ways here in México.
Sugar Babies
The big sugar companies are taking some marketing lessons from the tobacco industry by denying any connection between their product and the obesity and diabetes epidemics going on in the industrialized world. They also have access to immense power and give generously to the powers that be to ensure that their products are protected.
Sugar is one of the biggest enemies in the pursuit of health and longevity. It appears in nearly ALL processed foods and drinks -- even things you wouldn’t think would be sweetened, like canned beans, mayonnaise, and pickles even baby food -- make it virtually impossible to avoid.
It is a proven fact that sugar increases your insulin and leptin levels and decreases receptor sensitivity for both of these vital hormones. This lead directly to:
•High blood pressure and high cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Weight gain
• Premature aging
Sound familiar?
One way in which sugar has been linked to the obesity epidemic, for instance, is that when consumed in quantities, sugars cause hormonal changes that lead to overeating.
Sugar suppresses your immune system, contributing to allergies, and it is responsible for a number of digestive disorders. It also contributes to depression, and its excess consumption is, in fact, associated with many of the chronic diseases in the United States, including the big C.
The sugar industry, naturally, wants to downplay its health risks because there is big money involved.
Well, who can blame them, take a look at some of these figures…we are talking about some big bucks…
The average American eats well in excess of 150 pounds of sugar a year, or about 2.5 pounds each week. This is no surprise because the single largest source of calories in the United States is high-fructose corn syrup from soft drinks. And Mexico, loving and admiring their northern neighbors, embraces their worst habits and is 2nd in line when it comes to sugar consumption, 1st in line when it comes to obesity
The sugar industry has had its share of challenges lately, such as a growing artificial sweetener industry that has been stealing more and more attention and market share. However, most of these artificial sweeteners are s greater health risk then straight up sugar and should be avoided.
But that’s another story.
Due to the artificial sweetener invasion, the sugar folks are coming on stronger than ever, and tagging into the “natural” sweet treat as a fine part of your diet. Of course, most people don’t eat just a teaspoon of sugar a week; they eat over 2 pounds, which is not surprising when certain studies show sugar to be addictive. Even your pets will get addicted to the taste and beg for more. Yes, a little candy can’t hurt? ...Better think again as our pets are more and more prone to human diseases.
Again, that’s another story.
And what about the kids? They are started on the sugar binge from the time they are toddlers! A new study uncovered another contributing factor to the rise of childhood obesity directly related to the amount of added sugars in kid’s diet. Those who consumed higher amounts of added sugars in their diets receive fewer calories from healthy foods rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. This means the more added sugars from sodas and sweets in kids' diets, the fewer the number of good nutrients their bodies get in order to remain healthy.
Consider the problems that schools and parents are having with hyper active children, Sometimes they call it ADHD Attention Deficit Disorder, then medicate the kids.to help them focus. But just try and keep your kids off the sugar and see a real tizzy fit.
A bitter pill to swallow? Who does not love a great sweet? Be well advised to be prudent in your choices and cut the sugar down. Try using real alternatives like agave syrup and little by little you can break the habit.
And PLEASE do not reward your sweet pet with sweets.
Or the kids.
Sugar is one of the biggest enemies in the pursuit of health and longevity. It appears in nearly ALL processed foods and drinks -- even things you wouldn’t think would be sweetened, like canned beans, mayonnaise, and pickles even baby food -- make it virtually impossible to avoid.
It is a proven fact that sugar increases your insulin and leptin levels and decreases receptor sensitivity for both of these vital hormones. This lead directly to:
•High blood pressure and high cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Weight gain
• Premature aging
Sound familiar?
One way in which sugar has been linked to the obesity epidemic, for instance, is that when consumed in quantities, sugars cause hormonal changes that lead to overeating.
Sugar suppresses your immune system, contributing to allergies, and it is responsible for a number of digestive disorders. It also contributes to depression, and its excess consumption is, in fact, associated with many of the chronic diseases in the United States, including the big C.
The sugar industry, naturally, wants to downplay its health risks because there is big money involved.
Well, who can blame them, take a look at some of these figures…we are talking about some big bucks…
The average American eats well in excess of 150 pounds of sugar a year, or about 2.5 pounds each week. This is no surprise because the single largest source of calories in the United States is high-fructose corn syrup from soft drinks. And Mexico, loving and admiring their northern neighbors, embraces their worst habits and is 2nd in line when it comes to sugar consumption, 1st in line when it comes to obesity
The sugar industry has had its share of challenges lately, such as a growing artificial sweetener industry that has been stealing more and more attention and market share. However, most of these artificial sweeteners are s greater health risk then straight up sugar and should be avoided.
But that’s another story.
Due to the artificial sweetener invasion, the sugar folks are coming on stronger than ever, and tagging into the “natural” sweet treat as a fine part of your diet. Of course, most people don’t eat just a teaspoon of sugar a week; they eat over 2 pounds, which is not surprising when certain studies show sugar to be addictive. Even your pets will get addicted to the taste and beg for more. Yes, a little candy can’t hurt? ...Better think again as our pets are more and more prone to human diseases.
Again, that’s another story.
And what about the kids? They are started on the sugar binge from the time they are toddlers! A new study uncovered another contributing factor to the rise of childhood obesity directly related to the amount of added sugars in kid’s diet. Those who consumed higher amounts of added sugars in their diets receive fewer calories from healthy foods rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. This means the more added sugars from sodas and sweets in kids' diets, the fewer the number of good nutrients their bodies get in order to remain healthy.
Consider the problems that schools and parents are having with hyper active children, Sometimes they call it ADHD Attention Deficit Disorder, then medicate the kids.to help them focus. But just try and keep your kids off the sugar and see a real tizzy fit.
A bitter pill to swallow? Who does not love a great sweet? Be well advised to be prudent in your choices and cut the sugar down. Try using real alternatives like agave syrup and little by little you can break the habit.
And PLEASE do not reward your sweet pet with sweets.
Or the kids.
World Environment Day
Learn about the endangered plants and animals our unique area of coastal Mexico and the biodiversity of this region. Join the staff of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, Alan Heinze, the Garden's biologist, and officials from SEMERNAT, Mexico’s Wildlife Management Agency, on June 5th, as we explore conservation initiatives for this region and celebrate the Garden’s recent certification as a Wildlife Management Unit.
Please share this information with your friends and encourage them to attend on Sunday, June 5th, at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens.
Please share this information with your friends and encourage them to attend on Sunday, June 5th, at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens.
Green Iguana Trivia
Call me crazy but laundry is one of my favorite chores. I love to watch the clothes dance in the breeze as they dry on the line. The fresh scent of summertime fills the house as I put them away in dresser drawers. Little did I know that my beloved laundry ritual would be interrupted that morning.
Accidentally knocking over the folded table umbrella, I bent down to replace it in the corner of the patio. Suddenly, a mid-sized green iguana leapt from the folds and scurried across the tiles to his sanctuary in the flower bushes. My screams echoed throughout the neighborhood. After assuring everyone that I was fine, I tried to laugh it off and catch my breath. After all, iguanas are harmless right? Well, they are certainly popular.
When I arrived in Puerto Vallarta, it didn’t take long to realize that these four-legged reptiles were everywhere. They were depicted in art, books, and advertising, even creative mixed drink menus. In fact, it seemed like everyone was playing the “I Spy with My Little Eye a Green Iguana” game. A tourist would point to a tree while onlookers squinted and swayed from side to side. Once the iguana was spotted, cameras would immortalize it in digital photo albums around the world.
So what exactly is a green iguana? What do they eat? Will they crawl into my lap for an afternoon siesta? Perhaps you are wondering the same things? Well, after doing a little research, I thought that you and your family would enjoy some “Green Iguana Trivia”.
What are green iguanas?
Green iguanas are large reptiles that range in “greenness” from bright to dull, depending upon their age and gender.
Where do they live?
Green iguanas live high in the trees. They like to have water nearby and who wouldn’t in this hot tropical weather? Green iguanas are native to Central and South America but can also be found in Texas, Florida, Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean Islands.
How long can they grow?
Green iguanas can grow up to 6.6 feet or 2 meters in length.
How much can a green iguana weigh?
A mature iguana can weigh up to 20 pounds or 9.1 kilograms.
Can they swim?
Yes, iguanas are powerful swimmers using their strong tails propel them. When iguanas need to escape from predators like hawks, they have been known to “fall” from trees 40-50 feet high and dive into the water to swim away unharmed.
How do iguanas protect themselves?
Iguanas lift their head, bobbing side to side and displaying the dewlap (bigger in males) under the chin. They also have spines along their back. If attacked, iguanas use their teeth, claws and whip-like tails. In fact, if an enemy has clutched the tail, it can break off allowing the iguana to escape and eventually grow another.
Can an iguana bite?
An iguana’s teeth are sharp enough to shred leaves and can even break human skin but he is more interested in flowers, leaves and fruit. Iguanas are herbivorous, which is a fancy word for vegetarian. Unless you corner and agitate an iguana, he will leave you alone. One might say, “They are more afraid of you than you are of them.”
Does an iguana need protection from the bright sun?
You would think that an iguana would need some SPF 100 with all of that sunbathing. However, their bodies need to soak up the ultraviolet rays in order to produce vitamin D.
What is on the top of an iguana’s head?
Iguanas have a “third eye” that does not function like the other two. Also called a parietal eye, it is a photosensory organ that detects color change and overhead movement. Iguanas have excellent vision, noting shapes and motion at long distances. They can even distinguish between colors in bright light.
How many eggs does a female iguana lay?
A female lays between 20-71 eggs one time a year. She might protect her “burrow” from predators, but does not return to greet or raise her newborns. Not all eggs make it to “hatching time”, but if they do, the babies stay in juvenile groups for about one year.
Do they live in families?
Most iguanas prefer the single life but they do enjoy getting together to sunbath at a local “hot spot”.
Can you eat a green iguana?
Actually, Central and South American cultures have been eating green iguanas for over 7000 years. They say that the meat tastes like, you guessed it, chicken! I think that I will stick with my chips and salsa after a full morning of iguana surprises and fresh laundry.
For more information about green iguanas, check out my sources at www.wikipedia.com and www.nationalgeographic.com.
Schools and Universities
Puerto Vallarta has quickly adapted to the needs of its international residents by establishing new schools intended to cater to all needs.
The public school system is now complemented by a private sector in which curriculums are taught simultaneously in English and Spanish.
Moreover, Vallarta is now home to El Centro Universitario de la Costa, La CuC, or the University Centre on the Coast, a part of the prestigious University of Guadalajara, its bustling campus north-east of the International Airport offering courses in all the main disciplines.
For those who seek more cultural or non-traditional education, Puerto Vallarta offers classes in virtually any and every subject, in Spanish or English, or in these two languages themselves, as well as French and German, Flamenco, Tango, Salsa, Yoga, various styles of martial arts, gardening, cooking, music, (guitar and piano classes), and plastic arts (such as painting, sculpting or even model plan making).
The public school system is now complemented by a private sector in which curriculums are taught simultaneously in English and Spanish.
Moreover, Vallarta is now home to El Centro Universitario de la Costa, La CuC, or the University Centre on the Coast, a part of the prestigious University of Guadalajara, its bustling campus north-east of the International Airport offering courses in all the main disciplines.
For those who seek more cultural or non-traditional education, Puerto Vallarta offers classes in virtually any and every subject, in Spanish or English, or in these two languages themselves, as well as French and German, Flamenco, Tango, Salsa, Yoga, various styles of martial arts, gardening, cooking, music, (guitar and piano classes), and plastic arts (such as painting, sculpting or even model plan making).
Retiring in Vallarta
For decades now, Puerto Vallarta has been considered the ideal retirement destination by Canadian and U.S. residents. Blessed by its location between the Sierra Madres and Banderas Bay, on Mexico’s pacific coast, the sun and breezes are not all that make this idyllic climate on of the best places in the world to retire.
Puerto Vallarta is only a 3-hour flight from Los Angeles and up to 5 hours from most major US and Canadian cities. The area has become home to several thousands of North Americans who have chosen it over many other beach destinations. In 2010, AARP members voted Puerto Vallarta the “best destination in the world.”
Puerto Vallarta is on the same latitude as Hawaii and has an almost perfect climate year-round, with an average daily temperature of 73°F/23°C from May to November with virtually no chance of rain, and summer temperatures of 87°F/28.5°C, with refreshing rain showers almost every evening.
Vallarta boasts a truly international, cosmopolitan population, thanks to its location, climate, multilingual and multicultural status, and international airport. Its ever-increasing infrastructure includes a maritime terminal, several excellent hospitals, private and public clinics, culture and arts and high-speed Internet.
Most importantly, it offers a home to many foreigners retiring in Mexico, who have created a network of social activities and dynamic lifestyle--you may never want to go “home” again!
Puerto Vallarta is only a 3-hour flight from Los Angeles and up to 5 hours from most major US and Canadian cities. The area has become home to several thousands of North Americans who have chosen it over many other beach destinations. In 2010, AARP members voted Puerto Vallarta the “best destination in the world.”
Puerto Vallarta is on the same latitude as Hawaii and has an almost perfect climate year-round, with an average daily temperature of 73°F/23°C from May to November with virtually no chance of rain, and summer temperatures of 87°F/28.5°C, with refreshing rain showers almost every evening.
Vallarta boasts a truly international, cosmopolitan population, thanks to its location, climate, multilingual and multicultural status, and international airport. Its ever-increasing infrastructure includes a maritime terminal, several excellent hospitals, private and public clinics, culture and arts and high-speed Internet.
Most importantly, it offers a home to many foreigners retiring in Mexico, who have created a network of social activities and dynamic lifestyle--you may never want to go “home” again!
Art and Culture in Puerto Vallarta
Art and Culture in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is an increasingly important destination for art aficionados from around the world. Its Centro Historico is the perfect backdrop to inspire art lovers, and the vibrant art scene is reflected in the wealth of galleries, public sculptures and cultural festivals the city offers throughout the year.
The Centro Histórico, with its cobblestone streets, is the home of the ArtWalk. The purpose of ArtWalk is to provide a pleasant atmosphere for art collectors, art patrons, local residents and interested visitors to discover the great variety and exceptional quality of art available in Puerto Vallarta. In addition, ArtWalk is a chance to meet exhibiting artists, to make new acquaintances and to encounter old friends.
The ArtWalk season begins each year the last Wednesday of October and ends the last Wednesday of May with 14 participating galleries that offer exhibition/cocktails every Wednesday from 6 until 10 p.m. Because all the galleries associated with ArtWalk are located in Centro Histórico, walking from one gallery to another is an easy, enjoyable experience. The starting point and length of stay at each gallery is optional.
Puerto Vallarta has become an important center of creation, exhibition and promotion of art. Centro Histórico, in particular, has fine galleries, with an increasing number of national and international artists, which rival or exceed any other destination in Mexico. Remarkable paintings, exceptional sculptures, fine ceramics and noteworthy art in many diverse forms – these are the experiences of ArtWalk.
Since its heyday in the ‘60s, marked by the arrival of Liz Taylor, Ava Gardner and Richard Burton to the set of Night of the Iguana, the town has attracted filmmakers, artists, sculptors, musicians and cultural enthusiasts alike. The art scene has grown exponentially, fueled first by the development boom of the ‘80s and ‘90s that has now taken on a life of its own to support local, national and international art talent.
The opening of the Teatro Vallarta, a 912-seat state-of-the-art theater in the city´s center, in Spring of 2010 secured Vallarta´s place as a leading cultural center on Mexico´s Pacific Coast. Since its launch, the theater has hosted a wealth of national and international shows, including the Russian State Ballet, the world renowned Filippa Giordano pop opera singer, the Vagina Monologues and the spectacular must-see Fandango extravaganza, among others. The theater also houses an exceptional modern art gallery featuring some of Mexico’s most up-and-coming talent.
Puerto Vallarta is an increasingly important destination for art aficionados from around the world. Its Centro Historico is the perfect backdrop to inspire art lovers, and the vibrant art scene is reflected in the wealth of galleries, public sculptures and cultural festivals the city offers throughout the year.
The Centro Histórico, with its cobblestone streets, is the home of the ArtWalk. The purpose of ArtWalk is to provide a pleasant atmosphere for art collectors, art patrons, local residents and interested visitors to discover the great variety and exceptional quality of art available in Puerto Vallarta. In addition, ArtWalk is a chance to meet exhibiting artists, to make new acquaintances and to encounter old friends.
The ArtWalk season begins each year the last Wednesday of October and ends the last Wednesday of May with 14 participating galleries that offer exhibition/cocktails every Wednesday from 6 until 10 p.m. Because all the galleries associated with ArtWalk are located in Centro Histórico, walking from one gallery to another is an easy, enjoyable experience. The starting point and length of stay at each gallery is optional.
Puerto Vallarta has become an important center of creation, exhibition and promotion of art. Centro Histórico, in particular, has fine galleries, with an increasing number of national and international artists, which rival or exceed any other destination in Mexico. Remarkable paintings, exceptional sculptures, fine ceramics and noteworthy art in many diverse forms – these are the experiences of ArtWalk.
Since its heyday in the ‘60s, marked by the arrival of Liz Taylor, Ava Gardner and Richard Burton to the set of Night of the Iguana, the town has attracted filmmakers, artists, sculptors, musicians and cultural enthusiasts alike. The art scene has grown exponentially, fueled first by the development boom of the ‘80s and ‘90s that has now taken on a life of its own to support local, national and international art talent.
The opening of the Teatro Vallarta, a 912-seat state-of-the-art theater in the city´s center, in Spring of 2010 secured Vallarta´s place as a leading cultural center on Mexico´s Pacific Coast. Since its launch, the theater has hosted a wealth of national and international shows, including the Russian State Ballet, the world renowned Filippa Giordano pop opera singer, the Vagina Monologues and the spectacular must-see Fandango extravaganza, among others. The theater also houses an exceptional modern art gallery featuring some of Mexico’s most up-and-coming talent.
Shopping Centers
Puerto Vallarta has a diverse selection of places for you to shop at.
Enjoy shopping centers with trendy department stores, fashion boutiques, sporting goods stores, must-have accessories, shops, international restaurants, banks, movie theaters and art galleries.
Vallarta offers an endless number of businesses that open their doors to bring you the best in customer service and value.
You may also enjoy the simpler centers that have grown hand-in-hand with Vallarta, including stores that offer goods made by local artisans, clothing, souvenirs and so much more.
The shopping centers have become meeting places for locals as well as visitors.
Temporary events and shows can be found in the shopping center of your choice.
Be delighted by the diverse activities such as casinos and game centers these places have in store for you.
Enjoy shopping centers with trendy department stores, fashion boutiques, sporting goods stores, must-have accessories, shops, international restaurants, banks, movie theaters and art galleries.
Vallarta offers an endless number of businesses that open their doors to bring you the best in customer service and value.
You may also enjoy the simpler centers that have grown hand-in-hand with Vallarta, including stores that offer goods made by local artisans, clothing, souvenirs and so much more.
The shopping centers have become meeting places for locals as well as visitors.
Temporary events and shows can be found in the shopping center of your choice.
Be delighted by the diverse activities such as casinos and game centers these places have in store for you.
Medical and Health Services
Puerto Vallarta has several leading-edge hospitals to choose from and the city is quickly becoming recognized for the quality of its medical services and the number of medical tourists that arrive each year.
Whether you seek cosmetic surgery or more involved treatment, Vallarta has a plethora of qualified doctors and nurses from all specializations and medical fields (including naturopathic and homeopathic) that cater to your individual needs.
Vallarta has long been known for the excellence of its service industry and warmth of its people, and these characteristics certainly extend to the field of medical tourism. The medical professionals who make up this increasingly important part of the local health community deliver world-class services in Spanish, English, French and German.
The first International Congress of Medical Tourism Mexico was held in Puerto Vallarta in August of 2010 with leading health care practitioners arriving from across North America and Europe.
Whether you seek cosmetic surgery or more involved treatment, Vallarta has a plethora of qualified doctors and nurses from all specializations and medical fields (including naturopathic and homeopathic) that cater to your individual needs.
Vallarta has long been known for the excellence of its service industry and warmth of its people, and these characteristics certainly extend to the field of medical tourism. The medical professionals who make up this increasingly important part of the local health community deliver world-class services in Spanish, English, French and German.
The first International Congress of Medical Tourism Mexico was held in Puerto Vallarta in August of 2010 with leading health care practitioners arriving from across North America and Europe.
Our Beaches
The 3 natural attractions that make Puerto Vallarta a magical place are, the Sierra Madre Mountains, the rivers coming down the mountains, and the Pacific Ocean with its beaches.
We invite you to enjoy Puerto Vallarta´s beaches, where you will find endless activities to participate in, from scuba diving, walking on the golden sand, viewing humpback whales (in the winter) and dolphins in the near distance, listening to the soothing sound of waves, or, taking in one of Vallarta’s unparalleled sunsets.
Playa de Oro
Located in the north part of the city, Playa de Oro (or Gold Beach) is ample, safe and sandy, bordered by rocky configurations that make it a tranquil beach.
Surrounded by an arch of grand hotels, you’ll be able to enjoy a number of recreational activities and aquatic sports, such as parasailing, waterskiing and swimming. This is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta among locals and visitors alike.
Los Muertos Beach
Probably the most famous, the most visited and the most talked about, Los Muertos beach is located at the south end of the Malecón just past the Río. Otherwise known as Old Town or Zona Romántica, the beach here caters to families and honeymooners alike and is a wonderful place to watch a sunset.
Here you will find a variety of restaurants, bars, galleries, clothing stores and souvenir shops, among other attractions, not to mention a large number of locals and foreigners, making this beach area the ideal place for fun and entertainment, day or night.
Las Gemelas Beach (Twin Beach)
Las Gemelas, or The Twins, are a pair of beaches, each approximately 100m in length, distinguished by their fine, white sand, transparent water and gentle waves onshore.
On these two beaches you will find many aquatic activities to choose from. Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, walking, climbing the rocks that divide the beaches and searching among them for crabs as well as sunbathing or relaxing and under palm trees.
Conchas Chinas Beach
Conchas Chinas is one of the most fascinating beaches you’re likely to find in Vallarta. Only a few minutes south of the city nestled between the verdant mountains and the aquamarine waters of the Pacific with pristine, sandy white shores. Enjoy the natural pools formed by encircling rocks, a roasted fish on a stick; relax and enjoy is the motto here. Thanks to the clarity of its waters you’ll be able to see the wide variety of fish and sea life to be found here, an experience you’ll never forget. One of the most pristine beaches in Puerto Vallarta.
Garza Blanca Beach
Garza Blanca beach is not to be missed. There is still public access to it at the side of the developments on it, a road that leads all the way to the beach. It’s a small and discreet beach located at kilometer 7 on the Pacific Coast Highway, just a bit south of Las Gemelas. Its white sand and aquamarine waters are perfect for the photo album. Come, relax, feel and experience the tranquility of this extraordinary place.
Mismaloya Beach
Located at the southernmost point in Puerto Vallarta, Mismaloya lies at the foot of the mountains in its own blue/green bay. If you want to enjoy some of the best views Vallarta has to offer, its roadside vantage points, its hotels, their terraces and several beach restaurants are the best places to see them from.
This beach is famous for having been the one chosen by John Huston to film Tennessee Williams’ “The Night of the Iguana” in 1964. The ruins of the construction still exist at the far end of the beach. In the rainy season this beautiful river swells to new levels, offering a vast array of flowers and birds for the most avid bird watcher.
National Marine Park Los Arcos
This incredible marine park is situated between Las Gemelas and Mismaloya. Don’t miss the opportunity to boat, snorkel, or SCUBA dive through the deep tunnels, caves, colorful reefs and arches of these amazing islands, and get to know the numerous forms of sea life and birds that make Los Arcos their home. These islands seem to float on the surface of some of the most profound waters of the Pacific. Their unforgettable image will be brought up in your memory whenever you think of Vallarta.
Boca de Tomatlán
Situated among hills, trees and palms. Where the river flows into the Pacific, lies the small fishing village of Boca de Tomatlán, the last beach accessible by land before the highway turns inland. From here you can hire the famous pangas, or water taxis, to take you to the island beaches of Yelapa and Quimixto. Now is the time to get on board and discover more of the Pacific. From Boca de Tomatlán onwards, you will need to take a water taxi to see the rest of Vallarta’s beaches.
Las Ánimas Beach
Las Ánimas is a beach that is distinguished by its golden sand; divided by a line of rock, to the right is the tourist section; to the left is a much more private beach called El Caballito (Little Horse). Behind it stand imposing mountains and before it the Pacific, colored light blue due to its shallow depths, which make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and kayaking. Or if you only want to relax here, you can sunbathe on any of the reclining sun chairs in front of its many restaurants while enjoying fresh seafood.
Quimixto Beach
A somewhat rocky and secluded beach which is settled by a small village of a several hundred families. There are horse and guide hire concessions in town which lead visitors through a small canyon behind the town to a series of waterfalls
Whether arriving here by boat or panga, those seeking new and unique experiences will find the small village of Quimixto to be the spot. Visitors to this beach can either walk or ride a rented horse inland, where you will eventually find a picturesque waterfall with a good size lagoon for swimming or snorkeling.
Discover and enjoy the variety of sea life at Quimixto, where you will see a world of tropical fish, sea turtles, coral, and so much more.
Majahuitas Beach
Majahuitas lies at the foot of a lush jungle, the place to experience some of the area´s wildlife, colored by tones of gentle blue of the Pacific. Wander in this spectacular area, with its inlets and sunken canyon you must see for yourself. Climb aboard an adventure on a kayak, or simply walk along the beach and relax while enjoying the singing of birds.
Yelapa Beach
Do you want to go to a place “where the waters meet and whirl”. That is the meaning of the name Yelapa, a picturesque beachside village inviting to explore its landscapes, about two hours away from Boca de Tomatlán by water taxi. It is a place distinguished by its color, its tradition, its gentle people who, for the most part, dedicate their lives to fishing and tourism. Given that it is a traditional village, you must try its dishes of Mexican food, fresh fish and lobster.
Yelapa, the perfect place to ‘lose’ yourself in the jungle, wade through rivers, or take up sports such as swimming in its gentle water, SCUBA diving or fishing, or taking long walks in the village until you reach its waterfall, more than 50 meters high, that falls from the mountain in the rainy season (June to September). If you´ve had enough of tours and excitement you may simply choose to relax on the beach.
Cabo Corrientes
Continuing along the bay you will soon arrive at Mayto Beach, where you will encounter a variety of plants and animals, as well as the largest sea turtle conservation and release camp in Jalisco. If it’s a meal you’re after, don’t miss Tehuamixtle beach, which is well known for its large oysters and shrimp at low prices, on a small beach 200m long.
Not far from here lies Villa Del Mar beach, where the waves and vibrant green vistas continue to impose themselves. There is an estuary here where you can kayak. If you stay on land, you can sample the variety of locally grown crops, including fresh fruit.
Have fun and enjoy our beaches!
We invite you to enjoy Puerto Vallarta´s beaches, where you will find endless activities to participate in, from scuba diving, walking on the golden sand, viewing humpback whales (in the winter) and dolphins in the near distance, listening to the soothing sound of waves, or, taking in one of Vallarta’s unparalleled sunsets.
Playa de Oro
Located in the north part of the city, Playa de Oro (or Gold Beach) is ample, safe and sandy, bordered by rocky configurations that make it a tranquil beach.
Surrounded by an arch of grand hotels, you’ll be able to enjoy a number of recreational activities and aquatic sports, such as parasailing, waterskiing and swimming. This is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta among locals and visitors alike.
Los Muertos Beach
Probably the most famous, the most visited and the most talked about, Los Muertos beach is located at the south end of the Malecón just past the Río. Otherwise known as Old Town or Zona Romántica, the beach here caters to families and honeymooners alike and is a wonderful place to watch a sunset.
Here you will find a variety of restaurants, bars, galleries, clothing stores and souvenir shops, among other attractions, not to mention a large number of locals and foreigners, making this beach area the ideal place for fun and entertainment, day or night.
Las Gemelas Beach (Twin Beach)
Las Gemelas, or The Twins, are a pair of beaches, each approximately 100m in length, distinguished by their fine, white sand, transparent water and gentle waves onshore.
On these two beaches you will find many aquatic activities to choose from. Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, walking, climbing the rocks that divide the beaches and searching among them for crabs as well as sunbathing or relaxing and under palm trees.
Conchas Chinas Beach
Conchas Chinas is one of the most fascinating beaches you’re likely to find in Vallarta. Only a few minutes south of the city nestled between the verdant mountains and the aquamarine waters of the Pacific with pristine, sandy white shores. Enjoy the natural pools formed by encircling rocks, a roasted fish on a stick; relax and enjoy is the motto here. Thanks to the clarity of its waters you’ll be able to see the wide variety of fish and sea life to be found here, an experience you’ll never forget. One of the most pristine beaches in Puerto Vallarta.
Garza Blanca Beach
Garza Blanca beach is not to be missed. There is still public access to it at the side of the developments on it, a road that leads all the way to the beach. It’s a small and discreet beach located at kilometer 7 on the Pacific Coast Highway, just a bit south of Las Gemelas. Its white sand and aquamarine waters are perfect for the photo album. Come, relax, feel and experience the tranquility of this extraordinary place.
Mismaloya Beach
Located at the southernmost point in Puerto Vallarta, Mismaloya lies at the foot of the mountains in its own blue/green bay. If you want to enjoy some of the best views Vallarta has to offer, its roadside vantage points, its hotels, their terraces and several beach restaurants are the best places to see them from.
This beach is famous for having been the one chosen by John Huston to film Tennessee Williams’ “The Night of the Iguana” in 1964. The ruins of the construction still exist at the far end of the beach. In the rainy season this beautiful river swells to new levels, offering a vast array of flowers and birds for the most avid bird watcher.
National Marine Park Los Arcos
This incredible marine park is situated between Las Gemelas and Mismaloya. Don’t miss the opportunity to boat, snorkel, or SCUBA dive through the deep tunnels, caves, colorful reefs and arches of these amazing islands, and get to know the numerous forms of sea life and birds that make Los Arcos their home. These islands seem to float on the surface of some of the most profound waters of the Pacific. Their unforgettable image will be brought up in your memory whenever you think of Vallarta.
Boca de Tomatlán
Situated among hills, trees and palms. Where the river flows into the Pacific, lies the small fishing village of Boca de Tomatlán, the last beach accessible by land before the highway turns inland. From here you can hire the famous pangas, or water taxis, to take you to the island beaches of Yelapa and Quimixto. Now is the time to get on board and discover more of the Pacific. From Boca de Tomatlán onwards, you will need to take a water taxi to see the rest of Vallarta’s beaches.
Las Ánimas Beach
Las Ánimas is a beach that is distinguished by its golden sand; divided by a line of rock, to the right is the tourist section; to the left is a much more private beach called El Caballito (Little Horse). Behind it stand imposing mountains and before it the Pacific, colored light blue due to its shallow depths, which make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and kayaking. Or if you only want to relax here, you can sunbathe on any of the reclining sun chairs in front of its many restaurants while enjoying fresh seafood.
Quimixto Beach
A somewhat rocky and secluded beach which is settled by a small village of a several hundred families. There are horse and guide hire concessions in town which lead visitors through a small canyon behind the town to a series of waterfalls
Whether arriving here by boat or panga, those seeking new and unique experiences will find the small village of Quimixto to be the spot. Visitors to this beach can either walk or ride a rented horse inland, where you will eventually find a picturesque waterfall with a good size lagoon for swimming or snorkeling.
Discover and enjoy the variety of sea life at Quimixto, where you will see a world of tropical fish, sea turtles, coral, and so much more.
Majahuitas Beach
Majahuitas lies at the foot of a lush jungle, the place to experience some of the area´s wildlife, colored by tones of gentle blue of the Pacific. Wander in this spectacular area, with its inlets and sunken canyon you must see for yourself. Climb aboard an adventure on a kayak, or simply walk along the beach and relax while enjoying the singing of birds.
Yelapa Beach
Do you want to go to a place “where the waters meet and whirl”. That is the meaning of the name Yelapa, a picturesque beachside village inviting to explore its landscapes, about two hours away from Boca de Tomatlán by water taxi. It is a place distinguished by its color, its tradition, its gentle people who, for the most part, dedicate their lives to fishing and tourism. Given that it is a traditional village, you must try its dishes of Mexican food, fresh fish and lobster.
Yelapa, the perfect place to ‘lose’ yourself in the jungle, wade through rivers, or take up sports such as swimming in its gentle water, SCUBA diving or fishing, or taking long walks in the village until you reach its waterfall, more than 50 meters high, that falls from the mountain in the rainy season (June to September). If you´ve had enough of tours and excitement you may simply choose to relax on the beach.
Cabo Corrientes
Continuing along the bay you will soon arrive at Mayto Beach, where you will encounter a variety of plants and animals, as well as the largest sea turtle conservation and release camp in Jalisco. If it’s a meal you’re after, don’t miss Tehuamixtle beach, which is well known for its large oysters and shrimp at low prices, on a small beach 200m long.
Not far from here lies Villa Del Mar beach, where the waves and vibrant green vistas continue to impose themselves. There is an estuary here where you can kayak. If you stay on land, you can sample the variety of locally grown crops, including fresh fruit.
Have fun and enjoy our beaches!
Things to Do!!
Music
Puerto Vallarta Municipal
Music Band
Every Thursday and Sunday
Plaza de Armas
6:00 pm. Cover/Entrance:FREE
POPULAR DANCE
Dancers of the Bahía de Banderas Every Saturday at the Main Plaza El Pitillal
Every Sunday at the Plaza de Ar- mas Los Arcos
7:00 pm.
Cover-Entrance: FREE
FOLKLORIC
Grupo Folclórico Municipal Xiutla
Every Friday
Lázaro Cárdenas Park / Parque
7:30 pm
Cover-Entrance: FREE
DANZA
Pre-Hispanic Dance
Every Monday, Tuesday and Friday
Hidalgo Park/Parque Hidalgo
7:00 pm.
Cover-Entrance: FREE
YOGA
Davannaya Yoga Studio
542 Matamoros, (on the hill above the church) Centro
Mulit level classes, cultural center, kirtan, teacher training, yoga for kids.
Inspired and certified teachers, beautiful space
www.davannayoga.com
Body and Sol Vallarta Wellness
Hatha yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, wellness center with organic foods and gardens, cooking classes, private classes and Villa services
Alameda 592 Col.Coapinole,
Tel. 222 1015
www.bodyandsolvallarta.com
Yoga Vallarta
Basilio Badillo 325 3rd floor
Complete schedule of multi level Yoga classes, Zumba.
www.yogavallarta.com
HACIENDA SAN ANGEL LIVE Performance EVERY FRIDAY from 8pm-9:30pm, authentic Mariachi Music
MIKEY’S – Fine Foods & Delicatessen. Offering fully prepared foods, meals and quality meats cut to order. You’ll find homemade sausages and bacon with a wonderful selection of breads and gourmet cheeses. Plus everything that you would expect from a fine deli: salads and deli meats, including homemade pastrami, roast beef and turkey. Gourmet meals without the headache! 322-223-0588
CORK + BOTTLE – Fine Wines & Sprits. A knowledgeable bilingual staff is ready to assist you in selecting just the right bottle of wine or spirit. Or relax with a glass of wine in the patio! Wine tastings are also being offered. 322-222-2806
DON FRESCO – Fresh produce. A wide variety of the freshest fruits and vegetables brought in daily. 322-223-5482
K’ RICO :) – Pastries, Coffees, Cakes & More! Satisfy your sweet tooth with our delicious full-sized cakes and individual desserts: croissants, tarts and cakes. Plus get your favorite smoothies and espresso drinks. 322-222-3076
FIREWORKS – Paint Your Own Pottery Studio. Have fun painting your own ceramic plates, cups, tiles and a variety of other items. You pick it! You paint it! We fire it! Unleash the artist in you! 322-222-2037 “Fiesta Jarocha” (ha-ro-tcha) at Puerto Vallarta’s favorite Mexican restaurant:
Golf
FLAMINGOS GOLF COURSE
Designed in 1970 by Percy Clifford (creator of some of Mexico’s top courses) as a cornerstone of the Nuevo Vallarta & Flamingos resort development. The course today is fully mature and unlike any other in Riviera Nayarit making it one of the most popular due to its beautiful rolling hill terrain, lush tropical forest and natural lagoons and mangroves.
Carr. Tepic-Puerto Vallarta km 145
63732 Bucerías, NAY
(329) 296 5006
LITIBU GOLF COURSE
Designed by the legendary golf player Greg Norman, Litibu Golf Course opened in early 2010 hosting the International Canadian Golf Tour Tournament. The unique feature of this par 72, 7,022 yard course is that it was built over a surface of 68.48 hectares, where 7 holes are a “link” style, 8 others are surrounded by virgin jungles, and the last 3 are run along the Pacific Ocean.
Carretera Punta de Mita, Km 2 Bahia de Banderas Nayarit, Nayarit 63734 (329)-298-4091
PUNTA MITA PACIFICO GOLF COURSE
Punta Mita Pacífico course was opened in September of 1999 and plays out at par 72 and 7,014 yards of the most breathtaking golf course in Mexico (possibly in the world). A Jack Nicklaus Signature Course that offer extraordinary ocean views and world-play Punta Mita Nayarit Mexico
Telephone: (329)-291-6000
EL NAYAR GOLF COURSE
Opened in 2001, this Jim Lipe design features a par of 71 and 7000 yards of challenging play. Located on the Mayan Palace property in Nuevo Vallarta, it provides impressive views of the Pacific Ocean, the Rio Ameca, and the surrounding Sierra Madre Mountains. Jim Lipe is Jack Nicklaus’ head designer and this course reflects that great heritage.
Nayar Golf Course Nuevo Vallarta
Paseo de las Moras s/n Fracc. Nautico Turistico Nuevo Vallarta 63735 Nayarit Mexico
(322) 226-4000
EL TIGRE GOLF COURSE
Opened in March of 2002, the El Tigre is one of the most challenging in the family of excellent golf courses in Riviera Nayarit. This course weighs in at 7,239 yards and par 72 and was created by designer Robert Von Hagge. An absolute must for golfers visiting Riviera Nayarit. Paseo Paraiso 800
[322] 226 8195
SHOP LOCAL! The Old Town Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 10 am - 2 pm until june 4th. Drop by for a great selection of locally grown produce, artisan foods, arts and crafts. The Market is located at Pulpito #127 - across from Coco’s Kitchen.
River Café Live Entertainment Schedule
9:30 am- 12pm Every Day - Harp 12pm-2:45pm Every Day
- Harp and Guitar
7:00pm-9:45pm Sun-Mon-Tue -
Harp and Guitar
7:30pm – 10:30pm
Wed-Thu-Fri-Sat
Live Blues -Jazz
Puerto Vallarta Municipal
Music Band
Every Thursday and Sunday
Plaza de Armas
6:00 pm. Cover/Entrance:FREE
POPULAR DANCE
Dancers of the Bahía de Banderas Every Saturday at the Main Plaza El Pitillal
Every Sunday at the Plaza de Ar- mas Los Arcos
7:00 pm.
Cover-Entrance: FREE
FOLKLORIC
Grupo Folclórico Municipal Xiutla
Every Friday
Lázaro Cárdenas Park / Parque
7:30 pm
Cover-Entrance: FREE
DANZA
Pre-Hispanic Dance
Every Monday, Tuesday and Friday
Hidalgo Park/Parque Hidalgo
7:00 pm.
Cover-Entrance: FREE
YOGA
Davannaya Yoga Studio
542 Matamoros, (on the hill above the church) Centro
Mulit level classes, cultural center, kirtan, teacher training, yoga for kids.
Inspired and certified teachers, beautiful space
www.davannayoga.com
Body and Sol Vallarta Wellness
Hatha yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, wellness center with organic foods and gardens, cooking classes, private classes and Villa services
Alameda 592 Col.Coapinole,
Tel. 222 1015
www.bodyandsolvallarta.com
Yoga Vallarta
Basilio Badillo 325 3rd floor
Complete schedule of multi level Yoga classes, Zumba.
www.yogavallarta.com
HACIENDA SAN ANGEL LIVE Performance EVERY FRIDAY from 8pm-9:30pm, authentic Mariachi Music
MIKEY’S – Fine Foods & Delicatessen. Offering fully prepared foods, meals and quality meats cut to order. You’ll find homemade sausages and bacon with a wonderful selection of breads and gourmet cheeses. Plus everything that you would expect from a fine deli: salads and deli meats, including homemade pastrami, roast beef and turkey. Gourmet meals without the headache! 322-223-0588
CORK + BOTTLE – Fine Wines & Sprits. A knowledgeable bilingual staff is ready to assist you in selecting just the right bottle of wine or spirit. Or relax with a glass of wine in the patio! Wine tastings are also being offered. 322-222-2806
DON FRESCO – Fresh produce. A wide variety of the freshest fruits and vegetables brought in daily. 322-223-5482
K’ RICO :) – Pastries, Coffees, Cakes & More! Satisfy your sweet tooth with our delicious full-sized cakes and individual desserts: croissants, tarts and cakes. Plus get your favorite smoothies and espresso drinks. 322-222-3076
FIREWORKS – Paint Your Own Pottery Studio. Have fun painting your own ceramic plates, cups, tiles and a variety of other items. You pick it! You paint it! We fire it! Unleash the artist in you! 322-222-2037 “Fiesta Jarocha” (ha-ro-tcha) at Puerto Vallarta’s favorite Mexican restaurant:
Golf
FLAMINGOS GOLF COURSE
Designed in 1970 by Percy Clifford (creator of some of Mexico’s top courses) as a cornerstone of the Nuevo Vallarta & Flamingos resort development. The course today is fully mature and unlike any other in Riviera Nayarit making it one of the most popular due to its beautiful rolling hill terrain, lush tropical forest and natural lagoons and mangroves.
Carr. Tepic-Puerto Vallarta km 145
63732 Bucerías, NAY
(329) 296 5006
LITIBU GOLF COURSE
Designed by the legendary golf player Greg Norman, Litibu Golf Course opened in early 2010 hosting the International Canadian Golf Tour Tournament. The unique feature of this par 72, 7,022 yard course is that it was built over a surface of 68.48 hectares, where 7 holes are a “link” style, 8 others are surrounded by virgin jungles, and the last 3 are run along the Pacific Ocean.
Carretera Punta de Mita, Km 2 Bahia de Banderas Nayarit, Nayarit 63734 (329)-298-4091
PUNTA MITA PACIFICO GOLF COURSE
Punta Mita Pacífico course was opened in September of 1999 and plays out at par 72 and 7,014 yards of the most breathtaking golf course in Mexico (possibly in the world). A Jack Nicklaus Signature Course that offer extraordinary ocean views and world-play Punta Mita Nayarit Mexico
Telephone: (329)-291-6000
EL NAYAR GOLF COURSE
Opened in 2001, this Jim Lipe design features a par of 71 and 7000 yards of challenging play. Located on the Mayan Palace property in Nuevo Vallarta, it provides impressive views of the Pacific Ocean, the Rio Ameca, and the surrounding Sierra Madre Mountains. Jim Lipe is Jack Nicklaus’ head designer and this course reflects that great heritage.
Nayar Golf Course Nuevo Vallarta
Paseo de las Moras s/n Fracc. Nautico Turistico Nuevo Vallarta 63735 Nayarit Mexico
(322) 226-4000
EL TIGRE GOLF COURSE
Opened in March of 2002, the El Tigre is one of the most challenging in the family of excellent golf courses in Riviera Nayarit. This course weighs in at 7,239 yards and par 72 and was created by designer Robert Von Hagge. An absolute must for golfers visiting Riviera Nayarit. Paseo Paraiso 800
[322] 226 8195
SHOP LOCAL! The Old Town Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 10 am - 2 pm until june 4th. Drop by for a great selection of locally grown produce, artisan foods, arts and crafts. The Market is located at Pulpito #127 - across from Coco’s Kitchen.
River Café Live Entertainment Schedule
9:30 am- 12pm Every Day - Harp 12pm-2:45pm Every Day
- Harp and Guitar
7:00pm-9:45pm Sun-Mon-Tue -
Harp and Guitar
7:30pm – 10:30pm
Wed-Thu-Fri-Sat
Live Blues -Jazz
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
GREEN ANGELS:
078 - (322) 221 26 80
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
060 -- (322) 223 94 76 and 78
TOURISM
(322) 222 0242 or 01 800 446 3942
HARBOR MASTER:
(322) 224 1000, 224 0427
ENVIROMENTAL EMERGENCY CENTER (COETEA)
01 800 710 49 43
FEDERAL COMMISSION ELECTRICITY (CFE) 071 –
(322) 225 5555
CANADIAN CONSULATE
(322) 293 00 98 and 99
AMERICAN CONSULATE
(322) 222 0069
and (33) 3268 21 45
RED CROSS * 060
EMERGENCY * 060 and 066
IMMIGRATION * (322) 221 13 80
FEDERAL POLICE
(322) 290 0658 and 64
BUCERIAS POLICE
(329) 298 1020
PROFECO * 01 800 468 8722
MUNICIPAL CIVIL PROTECTION
(322) 224 77 01
PUBLIC SECURITY
066 & (322) 290 0507
SEAPAL VALLARTA
(322) 226 9191
RADIO TAXI * 299 37 06
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT OF PVR
(322) 221 1298 * (322) 221-1325
(322) 221-1537
AIRLINES:
AEROMEXICO
Plaza Genovesa Shopping
Ctr Loc 2 & 3
224-2777
MEXICANA
Villa Vallarta Shopping
Ctr Local G-18
224-8900
AIR CANADA
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
01 (800) 719-2827
ALASKA AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1350
CONTINENTAL AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1025
DELTA AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1032
AEROTRON
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1921
AEROMAR
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-0815
AMERICA WEST
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1333
United Airlines
221-3264
GUSTAVO DIAZ ORDAZ
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Magement Office Line
221-1325
078 - (322) 221 26 80
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
060 -- (322) 223 94 76 and 78
TOURISM
(322) 222 0242 or 01 800 446 3942
HARBOR MASTER:
(322) 224 1000, 224 0427
ENVIROMENTAL EMERGENCY CENTER (COETEA)
01 800 710 49 43
FEDERAL COMMISSION ELECTRICITY (CFE) 071 –
(322) 225 5555
CANADIAN CONSULATE
(322) 293 00 98 and 99
AMERICAN CONSULATE
(322) 222 0069
and (33) 3268 21 45
RED CROSS * 060
EMERGENCY * 060 and 066
IMMIGRATION * (322) 221 13 80
FEDERAL POLICE
(322) 290 0658 and 64
BUCERIAS POLICE
(329) 298 1020
PROFECO * 01 800 468 8722
MUNICIPAL CIVIL PROTECTION
(322) 224 77 01
PUBLIC SECURITY
066 & (322) 290 0507
SEAPAL VALLARTA
(322) 226 9191
RADIO TAXI * 299 37 06
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT OF PVR
(322) 221 1298 * (322) 221-1325
(322) 221-1537
AIRLINES:
AEROMEXICO
Plaza Genovesa Shopping
Ctr Loc 2 & 3
224-2777
MEXICANA
Villa Vallarta Shopping
Ctr Local G-18
224-8900
AIR CANADA
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
01 (800) 719-2827
ALASKA AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1350
CONTINENTAL AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1025
DELTA AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1032
AEROTRON
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1921
AEROMAR
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-0815
AMERICA WEST
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1333
United Airlines
221-3264
GUSTAVO DIAZ ORDAZ
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Magement Office Line
221-1325
Facts about Puerto Vallarta!
AREA:
1,300 sq. kilometers
POPULATION:
Approx. 375,000 inhabitants
CLIMATE:
Tropical, humid, with an average of 300 sunny days per year. The temperature averages 28°C (82°F)
and the rainy season extends from late
June to early October.
FAUNA:
Nearby Sierra Vallejo hosts a great variety of animal species such as iguana, guacamaya, deer, raccoon, etc.
SANCTUARIES:
Bahía de Banderas encloses two Marine National Parks - Los Arcos and the Marieta Islands - where diving is allowed under certain circumstances but fishing of any kind is prohibited. Every year, the Bay receives the visit of the humpback whales, dolphins and manta rays in the winter. During the summer, sea turtles, a protected species, arrive to its shores to lay their eggs.
ECONOMY:
Local economy is based mainly on tourism, construction and to a lesser degree, on agriculture, mainly tropical fruit such as mango, papaya, watermelon, pineapple, guanabana, cantaloupe and bananas.
CURRENCY:
The Mexican Peso is the legal currency in Mexico although
Canadian and American dollars are widely accepted.
BUSES:
A system of urban buses with different routes. Current fare is $6.50 Pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”.
TAXIS:
There are set rates within defined zones of the town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver FIRST.
If you are staying at a hotel, you may want to check the rates usually posted in the lobby.
Also, if you know which restaurant you want to go, do not let the driver change your mind.
Many restaurateurs pay commissions to taxi drivers and you may end up paying more than you should, in a second-rate
establishment!
There are 2 kinds of taxi cabs: those at the airport and the maritime port are usually vans that can only be boarded there.
They have pre-fixed rates per passenger. City cabs are yellow cars that charge by the ride, not by passenger.
When you ask to go downtown, many drivers let you off at the beginning of the area, near Hidalgo Park. However, your fare covers the ENTIRE central area, so why walk 10 to 15 blocks to the main plaza, the Church or the flea market?
Pick up a free map, and insist on your full value from the driver! Note the number of your taxi in case of any problem, or if you forget something in the cab. Then your hotel or travel rep can help you check it out or lodge a complaint.
TIME ZONE:
The entire State of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit - from San Blas in the north through to the Ameca River, i.e.: San Blas, San Pancho, Sayulita, Punta Mita, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Bucerías, Nuevo Vallarta, etc.)
TELEPHONE CALLS:
Always check on the cost of long distance calls from your hotel room. Some establishments charge as much as U.S. $7.00 per minute!
CELL PHONES:
Most cellular phones from the U.S. and Canada may be programmed for local use, through Telcel and IUSAcell, the local carriers.
To dial cell to cell, use the prefix 322,
then the seven digit number of the person you’re calling. Omit the prefix if dialing a land line.
LOCAL CUSTOMS:
Tipping is usually 10%-15% of the bill at restaurants and bars. Tip bellboys, taxis, waiters, maids, etc. depending on the service.
Taking a siesta is a Mexican tradition. Some businesses and offices close from2 p.m. to 4 p.m., reopening until 7 p.m. or later. In restaurants, it is considered poor manners to present the check before it is requested, so when you’re ready to leave, ask for «La cuenta, por favor» and your bill will be delivered to you.
If you’ve been meaning to find a little information on the region, but never quite got around to it, we hope that the following will help.
Look at the map in this issue, you will note that PV (as the locals call it) is on the west coast of Mexico, in the middle of the Bay of Banderas, the largest bay in this country, that includes southern part of the state of Nayarit to the north and the northern part of Jalisco to the south. Thanks to its privileged location -sheltered by the Sierra Madre mountains- the Bay is well protected against the hurricanes spawned in the Pacific. Hurricane Kenna came close on October 25, 2002, but actually touched down in San Blas, Nayarit, some 200 miles north of PV. The town sits on the same parallel as the Hawaiian Islands, thus the similarities in the climate of the two destinations.
MONEY EXCHANGE:
(caja or casa de cambio). Better yet, if you have a «bank card», withdraw funds from your account back home. Try to avoid exchanging money at your hotel. Traditionally, those offer the worst rates.
WHAT TO DO:
Even if your all-inclusive hotel is everything you ever dreamed of, you should experience at least a little of all that Vallarta has to offer - it is truly a condensed version of all that is Mexican and existed before «Planned Tourist Resorts», such as Cancun, Los Cabos and Ixtapa, were developed. Millions have been spent to
ensure that the original “small town” flavor is maintained downtown, in the Old Town and on the South Side.
DRINKING WATER:
The false belief that a Mexican vacation must inevitably lead to an encounter with Moctezuma’s revenge is just that: false. For the 20th year in a row, Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for human consumption. It is one of only two cities in Mexico that can boast of such accomplishment. True, the quality of the water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful.
On the other hand, most large hotels have their own purification equipment and most restaurants use purified water. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up purified bottled water just about anywhere.
EXPORTING PETS:
Canadian and American tourists often fall in love with one of the many stray dogs and cats in Vallarta. Many would like to bring it back with them, but believe that the laws do not allow them to do so. Wrong. If you would like to bring a cat or a dog back home, call the local animal shelter for more info: 293-3690.
LOCAL SIGHTSEEING:
A good beginning would be to take one of the
City Tours offered by the local tour agencies. Before boarding, make sure
you have a map and take note of the places you want to return to. Then venture off the beaten path. Explore a little.
Go farther than the tour bus takes you. And don’t worry - this is a safe place.
1,300 sq. kilometers
POPULATION:
Approx. 375,000 inhabitants
CLIMATE:
Tropical, humid, with an average of 300 sunny days per year. The temperature averages 28°C (82°F)
and the rainy season extends from late
June to early October.
FAUNA:
Nearby Sierra Vallejo hosts a great variety of animal species such as iguana, guacamaya, deer, raccoon, etc.
SANCTUARIES:
Bahía de Banderas encloses two Marine National Parks - Los Arcos and the Marieta Islands - where diving is allowed under certain circumstances but fishing of any kind is prohibited. Every year, the Bay receives the visit of the humpback whales, dolphins and manta rays in the winter. During the summer, sea turtles, a protected species, arrive to its shores to lay their eggs.
ECONOMY:
Local economy is based mainly on tourism, construction and to a lesser degree, on agriculture, mainly tropical fruit such as mango, papaya, watermelon, pineapple, guanabana, cantaloupe and bananas.
CURRENCY:
The Mexican Peso is the legal currency in Mexico although
Canadian and American dollars are widely accepted.
BUSES:
A system of urban buses with different routes. Current fare is $6.50 Pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”.
TAXIS:
There are set rates within defined zones of the town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver FIRST.
If you are staying at a hotel, you may want to check the rates usually posted in the lobby.
Also, if you know which restaurant you want to go, do not let the driver change your mind.
Many restaurateurs pay commissions to taxi drivers and you may end up paying more than you should, in a second-rate
establishment!
There are 2 kinds of taxi cabs: those at the airport and the maritime port are usually vans that can only be boarded there.
They have pre-fixed rates per passenger. City cabs are yellow cars that charge by the ride, not by passenger.
When you ask to go downtown, many drivers let you off at the beginning of the area, near Hidalgo Park. However, your fare covers the ENTIRE central area, so why walk 10 to 15 blocks to the main plaza, the Church or the flea market?
Pick up a free map, and insist on your full value from the driver! Note the number of your taxi in case of any problem, or if you forget something in the cab. Then your hotel or travel rep can help you check it out or lodge a complaint.
TIME ZONE:
The entire State of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit - from San Blas in the north through to the Ameca River, i.e.: San Blas, San Pancho, Sayulita, Punta Mita, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Bucerías, Nuevo Vallarta, etc.)
TELEPHONE CALLS:
Always check on the cost of long distance calls from your hotel room. Some establishments charge as much as U.S. $7.00 per minute!
CELL PHONES:
Most cellular phones from the U.S. and Canada may be programmed for local use, through Telcel and IUSAcell, the local carriers.
To dial cell to cell, use the prefix 322,
then the seven digit number of the person you’re calling. Omit the prefix if dialing a land line.
LOCAL CUSTOMS:
Tipping is usually 10%-15% of the bill at restaurants and bars. Tip bellboys, taxis, waiters, maids, etc. depending on the service.
Taking a siesta is a Mexican tradition. Some businesses and offices close from2 p.m. to 4 p.m., reopening until 7 p.m. or later. In restaurants, it is considered poor manners to present the check before it is requested, so when you’re ready to leave, ask for «La cuenta, por favor» and your bill will be delivered to you.
If you’ve been meaning to find a little information on the region, but never quite got around to it, we hope that the following will help.
Look at the map in this issue, you will note that PV (as the locals call it) is on the west coast of Mexico, in the middle of the Bay of Banderas, the largest bay in this country, that includes southern part of the state of Nayarit to the north and the northern part of Jalisco to the south. Thanks to its privileged location -sheltered by the Sierra Madre mountains- the Bay is well protected against the hurricanes spawned in the Pacific. Hurricane Kenna came close on October 25, 2002, but actually touched down in San Blas, Nayarit, some 200 miles north of PV. The town sits on the same parallel as the Hawaiian Islands, thus the similarities in the climate of the two destinations.
MONEY EXCHANGE:
(caja or casa de cambio). Better yet, if you have a «bank card», withdraw funds from your account back home. Try to avoid exchanging money at your hotel. Traditionally, those offer the worst rates.
WHAT TO DO:
Even if your all-inclusive hotel is everything you ever dreamed of, you should experience at least a little of all that Vallarta has to offer - it is truly a condensed version of all that is Mexican and existed before «Planned Tourist Resorts», such as Cancun, Los Cabos and Ixtapa, were developed. Millions have been spent to
ensure that the original “small town” flavor is maintained downtown, in the Old Town and on the South Side.
DRINKING WATER:
The false belief that a Mexican vacation must inevitably lead to an encounter with Moctezuma’s revenge is just that: false. For the 20th year in a row, Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for human consumption. It is one of only two cities in Mexico that can boast of such accomplishment. True, the quality of the water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful.
On the other hand, most large hotels have their own purification equipment and most restaurants use purified water. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up purified bottled water just about anywhere.
EXPORTING PETS:
Canadian and American tourists often fall in love with one of the many stray dogs and cats in Vallarta. Many would like to bring it back with them, but believe that the laws do not allow them to do so. Wrong. If you would like to bring a cat or a dog back home, call the local animal shelter for more info: 293-3690.
LOCAL SIGHTSEEING:
A good beginning would be to take one of the
City Tours offered by the local tour agencies. Before boarding, make sure
you have a map and take note of the places you want to return to. Then venture off the beaten path. Explore a little.
Go farther than the tour bus takes you. And don’t worry - this is a safe place.
Letter to Editor
Dear Editor:
On behalf of CompassioNet Impact and Paradise Community Center, a big thank you to you, the performers, volunteers, and the year-round community. Your support of our fundraising efforts provides for those who are less-fortunate when funds and some services aren’t readily available. Our Night of Jazz and Western Roundup raised badly needed funds to support our Hotmeal Program in Colonia Salitrillo and another next to the dump. Thanks for joining us as we say, “No to Low (season)” and welcome a summer season of entertainment and charity. In other words, we are committed to providing for those who live here in the summer season a venue for Good Food, Good Times, while supporting a Good Cause. Since we charge for our tickets, we wanted to be transparent about where the money goes. One of our goals is to provide income for musicians, so we commit 40% of the entrance fee to the musicians. The rest goes to our charitable services that one can read about at www.4compassion.org, which include a Hot Meal Program, the Vallarta Bookmobile, free English classes and more. I or one of our volunteers will be more than happy to give interested parties a tour of our various outreaches and partnerships. We have also developed a website to keep you informed of upcoming events and fundraisers at the Center: www.paradisecommunitycenter.com.
Thanks again for all of your continued support.
Ric Lehman
CompassioNet Impact
On behalf of CompassioNet Impact and Paradise Community Center, a big thank you to you, the performers, volunteers, and the year-round community. Your support of our fundraising efforts provides for those who are less-fortunate when funds and some services aren’t readily available. Our Night of Jazz and Western Roundup raised badly needed funds to support our Hotmeal Program in Colonia Salitrillo and another next to the dump. Thanks for joining us as we say, “No to Low (season)” and welcome a summer season of entertainment and charity. In other words, we are committed to providing for those who live here in the summer season a venue for Good Food, Good Times, while supporting a Good Cause. Since we charge for our tickets, we wanted to be transparent about where the money goes. One of our goals is to provide income for musicians, so we commit 40% of the entrance fee to the musicians. The rest goes to our charitable services that one can read about at www.4compassion.org, which include a Hot Meal Program, the Vallarta Bookmobile, free English classes and more. I or one of our volunteers will be more than happy to give interested parties a tour of our various outreaches and partnerships. We have also developed a website to keep you informed of upcoming events and fundraisers at the Center: www.paradisecommunitycenter.com.
Thanks again for all of your continued support.
Ric Lehman
CompassioNet Impact
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Editorial
Happy Birthday Puerto Vallarta!
Surprise, you´re getting a new Malecón, what a present!
The fiesta on the 31st at the Plaza Presidencia downtown is a must on the list of things to do.
Sure to be a lot of fun.
Business continues as usual with few inconveniences, mostly lack of parking spaces. A number of the restaurants are making up for it with special offers and menus during the construction time.
Summer is approaching; the temperature is on the rise, making the comfortably warm nights perfect for a stroll on the beach. Be sure to check out the events at the River Cuale Cultural Center.
The Farmer´s Market in Olas Altas will be closing for the summer after Saturday, but the Paradise Community Center keeps functioning and is always in need of volunteers.
The Tribune is now offering Commercial Printing Services. Our facility in Lomas the Coapinole has all the equipment necessary to provide you with just about anything you may need to have printed.
There is no subcontracting and everything is done on site. Feel free to come and visit us or stop by our downtown office half a block from the LANS Department Store on MORELOS Street #787
For you Facebook and Twitter fans out there, thanks for all the invites. Feel free to share your experiences with us also via e-mail.
“Spring being a tough act to follow, God created June.”
Al Bernstein
Surprise, you´re getting a new Malecón, what a present!
The fiesta on the 31st at the Plaza Presidencia downtown is a must on the list of things to do.
Sure to be a lot of fun.
Business continues as usual with few inconveniences, mostly lack of parking spaces. A number of the restaurants are making up for it with special offers and menus during the construction time.
Summer is approaching; the temperature is on the rise, making the comfortably warm nights perfect for a stroll on the beach. Be sure to check out the events at the River Cuale Cultural Center.
The Farmer´s Market in Olas Altas will be closing for the summer after Saturday, but the Paradise Community Center keeps functioning and is always in need of volunteers.
The Tribune is now offering Commercial Printing Services. Our facility in Lomas the Coapinole has all the equipment necessary to provide you with just about anything you may need to have printed.
There is no subcontracting and everything is done on site. Feel free to come and visit us or stop by our downtown office half a block from the LANS Department Store on MORELOS Street #787
For you Facebook and Twitter fans out there, thanks for all the invites. Feel free to share your experiences with us also via e-mail.
“Spring being a tough act to follow, God created June.”
Al Bernstein
Our Home is Your Home
The Tribune would like to extend a warm welcome to each and every person visiting Puerto Vallarta this month. Cinco de Mayo, or the 5th of May is a very important day in Mexican history. This is the perfect time to enjoy Puerto Vallarta, the Easter craze and its crowd have come and gone.
Starting with our representative at Gustavo Diaz Ordáz International Airport, who presented you with this complimentary copy of the Vallarta Tribune, we wish you an unforgettable stay and many wonderful experiences. We hope the Tribune will provide you with useful tips making your vacation more enjoyable.
No matter where you may be visiting from, Canada, the U.S., another part of Mexico or perhaps even Europe, Nuestra Casa es tu Casa, Our Home is your Home, Bienvenidos!
We look forward to receiving your comments, should you wish to share your experience with us, please feel free to do so.
Have a great time, the City of Puerto Vallarta hopes to see you again soon!
Starting with our representative at Gustavo Diaz Ordáz International Airport, who presented you with this complimentary copy of the Vallarta Tribune, we wish you an unforgettable stay and many wonderful experiences. We hope the Tribune will provide you with useful tips making your vacation more enjoyable.
No matter where you may be visiting from, Canada, the U.S., another part of Mexico or perhaps even Europe, Nuestra Casa es tu Casa, Our Home is your Home, Bienvenidos!
We look forward to receiving your comments, should you wish to share your experience with us, please feel free to do so.
Have a great time, the City of Puerto Vallarta hopes to see you again soon!
May 31st - Puerto Vallarta’s Birthday
On May 31, 1928, Puerto Vallarta officially became a municipality, in 1968; Puerto Vallarta officially became a city in the state of Jalisco. Visitors can enjoy an outdoor musical show along the Malecón in celebration of this special day, speeches by city officials honoring the history and eat a piece of the city’s gigantic birthday cake at Plaza Presidencia downtown. At night, the city unites in celebration to watch fireworks and fiestas.
Business as usual on the Malecón
While there was much hoopla regarding the current remodeling of Puerto Vallarta’s Malecón, little attention was paid to the effect it will have on business in the long term.
The project will focus on widening the pedestrian sidewalks, replacing the concrete surface with natural stone, improved lighting, and the repairs to the retaining wall, which was deemed unsafe by the Civil Protection agency in a report issued earlier this year. The $50 million peso project is scheduled for completion by September 15, 2011.
City Hall and the tourism board are confident the new Malecón will receive the same widespread support the renovations along the Basilido Badillo have received.
Officials are enthusiastic recent investment in the city’s infrastructure can only be good for the city.
They cite the new pier at Los Muertos Beach, the walking bridge joining at Gringo Gulch to the island at the River Cuale and the demolition of the once popular Cinema Luz Maria at the entrance to the city core.
The Puerto Vallarta restaurant and bar sector is a resilient one; those along the Malecón have had to endure worse things than a makeover, including Hurricane Kenna.
While the new Malecón promises new opportunities for businesses located along the length of the boardwalk, you can do your bit to support the Puerto Vallarta restaurant and bar association by visiting the establishments located there.
Many of the restaurants are offering special promotions or menus to visitors while the work is being carried out.
The project will focus on widening the pedestrian sidewalks, replacing the concrete surface with natural stone, improved lighting, and the repairs to the retaining wall, which was deemed unsafe by the Civil Protection agency in a report issued earlier this year. The $50 million peso project is scheduled for completion by September 15, 2011.
City Hall and the tourism board are confident the new Malecón will receive the same widespread support the renovations along the Basilido Badillo have received.
Officials are enthusiastic recent investment in the city’s infrastructure can only be good for the city.
They cite the new pier at Los Muertos Beach, the walking bridge joining at Gringo Gulch to the island at the River Cuale and the demolition of the once popular Cinema Luz Maria at the entrance to the city core.
The Puerto Vallarta restaurant and bar sector is a resilient one; those along the Malecón have had to endure worse things than a makeover, including Hurricane Kenna.
While the new Malecón promises new opportunities for businesses located along the length of the boardwalk, you can do your bit to support the Puerto Vallarta restaurant and bar association by visiting the establishments located there.
Many of the restaurants are offering special promotions or menus to visitors while the work is being carried out.
Ask a Realtor...
A: How was your “high season” this year? Ray Y. Miami
Q: We saw a significant increase in buyer interest and sales activity this year as compared to 2010. One well established office in town reported that they have amade as many sales this year as they did all of last year. Canadian buyers were very active in order to take advantage of their strong dollar and Mexican buyers also snapped up some great deals. Unfortunately, American buyers are still in the doldrums thanks to economic turmoil and overhyped media reports of drug violence and insecurity in Mexico. The world economic turmoil undoubtedly trimmed the nest eggs of most new buyers entering this market. Therefore, a “return to affordability” was one of the primary drivers of the market this year. Properties priced from $150k to $300k were right in the sweet spot for most buyers and this market was extremely active. Existing properties that were well priced and well located were in high demand; as buyer’s really like to see, feel and experience the property first hand before buying. New developments with great location, excellent price, superb design and a proven track record from the developer also did well. A couple of new south side developments of 50 units were already over half sold out prior to breaking ground. The $300k to $600k market remains slow as these upscale buyers hunker down and wait for better times. Until the American buyers return, this market will be slow. Luxury properties priced over $1 million USD have never been a large percentage of the overall market; however we saw numerous sales this year as motivated sellers reduced prices to levels that were irresistible to sophisticated and savvy buyers. The government’s huge investment in infrastructure with improved roads, sidewalks and bike lanes, second bypass tunnel, beautification of “Restaurant Row, new Malecón boardwalk and Los Muertos pier could really pay off in attracting more new and upscale buyers to our market. This season it appeared that buyers began to realize that the Real Estate market in Puerto Vallarta is strong, stable and offering excellent bargains for retirement and mid to long term investing. There was never “subprime lending” here in PV and consequently there is no mortgage crisis or foreclosure market here. With $US financing now readily available (typically with a down payment of 25-30% and interest rates as low as 6%) a vast new market is poised to emerge as rates become more competitive and qualifying and closing become more streamlined. One of our most experienced loan brokers reports that 2011 has already been his best year ever. In summary, I am cautiously optimistic about the coming year; cautious because of the continuing concerns about drugs, violence and excessive inventory but optimistic because of the strong recovery that has characterized 2011 so far. Plus the natural beauty that surrounds us and the resilience of the local residents is truly inspiring. Now, if we can just figure out how to make it through the summer season, we will be poised for a strong high season in 2012!
Active in local and national Real Estate boards; published author and acknowledged expert on Puerto Vallarta Real Estate, Michael Green moved here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Mike can be reached at: pvgetaways@hotmail.com
Q: We saw a significant increase in buyer interest and sales activity this year as compared to 2010. One well established office in town reported that they have amade as many sales this year as they did all of last year. Canadian buyers were very active in order to take advantage of their strong dollar and Mexican buyers also snapped up some great deals. Unfortunately, American buyers are still in the doldrums thanks to economic turmoil and overhyped media reports of drug violence and insecurity in Mexico. The world economic turmoil undoubtedly trimmed the nest eggs of most new buyers entering this market. Therefore, a “return to affordability” was one of the primary drivers of the market this year. Properties priced from $150k to $300k were right in the sweet spot for most buyers and this market was extremely active. Existing properties that were well priced and well located were in high demand; as buyer’s really like to see, feel and experience the property first hand before buying. New developments with great location, excellent price, superb design and a proven track record from the developer also did well. A couple of new south side developments of 50 units were already over half sold out prior to breaking ground. The $300k to $600k market remains slow as these upscale buyers hunker down and wait for better times. Until the American buyers return, this market will be slow. Luxury properties priced over $1 million USD have never been a large percentage of the overall market; however we saw numerous sales this year as motivated sellers reduced prices to levels that were irresistible to sophisticated and savvy buyers. The government’s huge investment in infrastructure with improved roads, sidewalks and bike lanes, second bypass tunnel, beautification of “Restaurant Row, new Malecón boardwalk and Los Muertos pier could really pay off in attracting more new and upscale buyers to our market. This season it appeared that buyers began to realize that the Real Estate market in Puerto Vallarta is strong, stable and offering excellent bargains for retirement and mid to long term investing. There was never “subprime lending” here in PV and consequently there is no mortgage crisis or foreclosure market here. With $US financing now readily available (typically with a down payment of 25-30% and interest rates as low as 6%) a vast new market is poised to emerge as rates become more competitive and qualifying and closing become more streamlined. One of our most experienced loan brokers reports that 2011 has already been his best year ever. In summary, I am cautiously optimistic about the coming year; cautious because of the continuing concerns about drugs, violence and excessive inventory but optimistic because of the strong recovery that has characterized 2011 so far. Plus the natural beauty that surrounds us and the resilience of the local residents is truly inspiring. Now, if we can just figure out how to make it through the summer season, we will be poised for a strong high season in 2012!
Active in local and national Real Estate boards; published author and acknowledged expert on Puerto Vallarta Real Estate, Michael Green moved here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Mike can be reached at: pvgetaways@hotmail.com
Ask the Mortage Experts...
With mortgages becoming more of the norm in Mexico and with ever-increasing loan options, The Tribune is helping sort through the confusion by having your personal Financing/Mortgage questions answered by our local experts – David Schwendeman and Terence Reilly, Founder’s of MEXLend, an industry-leading Mortgage Broker based in Vallarta. We invite you to e-mail your questions regarding buying or financing Real Estate in Mexico to buyinginmexico@hotmail.com.
Q: “How would I go about selecting one Mortgage Broker over another? Don’t you all offer the same products and services? Yolanda Fisher, Denver, CO
A: Choosing a Mortgage Broker in Mexico is a lot like choosing a Realtor or Attorney anywhere else. A referral from a trusted source is almost always the best way to go, as the quality of service, attention to detail and processing times can vary quite a bit between firms. Your Realtor or Real Estate Attorney will most likely be able to offer some sound advice on “who” best to service your needs. In addition, all Mortgage Brokers in Mexico DO NOT offer the same products and services. Some have aligned themselves with only 1 or 2 Lenders – while others have a much broader spectrum of products.
Below is a list of questions a borrower should be prepared to ask before beginning a relationship with a Mortgage Professional in Mexico.
1. Have you closed any loans in Mexico?
The Mortgage Industry is still very new in Mexico and as it continues to establish itself, some companies have only just opened their doors. Frankly, it is a lot more labor intensive to write loans in Mexico than in the US or Canada and not every Broker has the knowledge or stamina to see the process through. That said, you want to go with a Mortgage Broker with a proven track record of ACTUALLY CLOSING Loans, preferably in a timely fashion.
2. Where are your offices located and where are your loans processed?
Some Mortgage Brokers dealing in Cross Border Lending operate their Mexican Businesses as a sideline to their US Mortgage Operations. Some maintain “bricks and mortar” office space in Mexico, some have Sales Representatives or Loan Officers on the ground here – while maintaining office space in the US, where the processing occurs and still others only operate from the US via phone, fax, e-mail and overnight express.
At the very least, your mortgage broker should have some one on the ground in Mexico, in the area you are buying, to facilitate the signing and delivery of documents and to navigate the various bureaucratic systems here. Mexican Loans can be far more complex than in other areas and a physical presence is the key to expediting a seamless closing. Also, Mexico has not yet completely embraced the notion of “e-commerce”. Notarios, Realtors, Bank Trust Managers, Attorneys, Developers, etc . . . all prefer a modicum of face-to-face negotiations when conducting business. This instills a sense of trust and accessibility – which bodes well for a smooth transaction.
In addition, working with a Broker who deals exclusively with Cross Border Lending will likely afford you a higher level of expertise and client satisfaction. If you think about it – do you really want to work with someone who is concentrating on two entirely different processes at the same time?
Lastly, it is virtually impossible to process a Mexican Loan entirely from a US office. Cross Border Loans are document heavy and the Mexican Authorities require original signatures on most items. The ability of a local Mortgage Broker or Loan Officer to hand deliver signed originals - in pinch - goes a long way towards a smooth closing.
3. Can you provide me with the names and telephone numbers of satisfied clients?
Who better to talk with then a previous customer who was well served by the efforts of the Mortgage Broker? Testimonials are key to almost any company’s success – regardless of the type of service offered. A Mortgage Broker with a proven tract record should be more than happy to arrange for potential new clients to speak with those who have already successfully funded. If the Broker refuses or makes excuses – move on to a Mortgage Professional who is elated to do so!
4. How many Banks or Lenders do you represent and what types of Loan Products do you offer?
As previously mentioned, some Brokers only work with limited products. As a borrower, your best chance of obtaining financing is to work with a Mortgage Broker who offers many options and has the expertise to channel your application into the right fit. Also, a skilled Mortgage Broker will compare and contrast the loan application against the various programs in an effort to come up with the most attractive terms for the client’s particular needs.
For example, a borrower who is purchasing purely as a short term investment and knows for certain the property will be sold within a few years – probably doesn’t want or need a 30 Year Fixed Rate Loan. This client would be better served by a 2, 3 or 5 Year Adjustable Rate Loan (ARM) with a lower, initial interest rate. However, if the Broker only offers Fixed Rate Loan Products – than that’s what the client is going to get – whether it’s the right fit or not. Conversely, a borrower purchasing or building the vacation home of their dreams and plans to enjoy the property for decades to come is not best served by an ARM and would likely be better served by a 20, 25 or 30 Year Fixed Loan. Mortgage Brokers who offer a variety of Loan Options typically have higher client satisfaction rates as they can not only strategize but also truly service the client’s needs.
5. Are you approved to work direct with the Banks or Lenders whose product you represent?
The answer to this question may seem obvious. If a Broker is marketing a loan product, then he must have direct access to the product – right? Wrong – sadly some people are not willing to put the time and effort into educating themselves on Cross Border Lending or go through the Lenders rigid Broker Approval Process. They merely hang a shingle announcing themselves as”Mexican Mortgage Brokers”. These firms take Mortgage Applications and all too frequently - large, “up front fees”. They then proceed to try and find an approved broker or direct lender to do the deal. Certainly, there are instances where this type of co-brokering of loans is legitimate and acceptable. However, your Mortgage Broker should have at least 1 or 2 Direct Lender Approvals before you make the decision to engage their services.
You want to work with an individual or firm who has made the effort to gain the Lender’s confidence, get trained in specific policies and protocols and who has the direct ear of the underwriting team who make the decisions on funding. In Mexico, the more Lenders a Broker is approved direct to represent – likely means a higher volume of loans closed, more products to offer potential clients and most importantly – the necessary experience and expertise to effectively close loans.
MEXLend, Inc. is a Mexican mortgage brokerage that currently represents 8 different lenders offering 75 different loan options in Dollars, Pesos and Euros for buyers looking to purchase vacation or investment property throughout Mexico – including products specifically for Canadian citizens. In announced results based upon post-closing client interviews conducted by Mexico’s largest US lender, MEXLend won the #1 mark of distinction for both client satisfaction and fastest closings for the second straight cycle. MEXLend can be reached at 322-132-7991 (in Vallarta), 917-779-9061 (while in the US or Canada), toll–free in Mexico by calling 1-800-3-Mi-Casa or go online at www.mexlend.com (For US and Euro loans) or www.mexlend.com.mx for Peso loans.
Q: “How would I go about selecting one Mortgage Broker over another? Don’t you all offer the same products and services? Yolanda Fisher, Denver, CO
A: Choosing a Mortgage Broker in Mexico is a lot like choosing a Realtor or Attorney anywhere else. A referral from a trusted source is almost always the best way to go, as the quality of service, attention to detail and processing times can vary quite a bit between firms. Your Realtor or Real Estate Attorney will most likely be able to offer some sound advice on “who” best to service your needs. In addition, all Mortgage Brokers in Mexico DO NOT offer the same products and services. Some have aligned themselves with only 1 or 2 Lenders – while others have a much broader spectrum of products.
Below is a list of questions a borrower should be prepared to ask before beginning a relationship with a Mortgage Professional in Mexico.
1. Have you closed any loans in Mexico?
The Mortgage Industry is still very new in Mexico and as it continues to establish itself, some companies have only just opened their doors. Frankly, it is a lot more labor intensive to write loans in Mexico than in the US or Canada and not every Broker has the knowledge or stamina to see the process through. That said, you want to go with a Mortgage Broker with a proven track record of ACTUALLY CLOSING Loans, preferably in a timely fashion.
2. Where are your offices located and where are your loans processed?
Some Mortgage Brokers dealing in Cross Border Lending operate their Mexican Businesses as a sideline to their US Mortgage Operations. Some maintain “bricks and mortar” office space in Mexico, some have Sales Representatives or Loan Officers on the ground here – while maintaining office space in the US, where the processing occurs and still others only operate from the US via phone, fax, e-mail and overnight express.
At the very least, your mortgage broker should have some one on the ground in Mexico, in the area you are buying, to facilitate the signing and delivery of documents and to navigate the various bureaucratic systems here. Mexican Loans can be far more complex than in other areas and a physical presence is the key to expediting a seamless closing. Also, Mexico has not yet completely embraced the notion of “e-commerce”. Notarios, Realtors, Bank Trust Managers, Attorneys, Developers, etc . . . all prefer a modicum of face-to-face negotiations when conducting business. This instills a sense of trust and accessibility – which bodes well for a smooth transaction.
In addition, working with a Broker who deals exclusively with Cross Border Lending will likely afford you a higher level of expertise and client satisfaction. If you think about it – do you really want to work with someone who is concentrating on two entirely different processes at the same time?
Lastly, it is virtually impossible to process a Mexican Loan entirely from a US office. Cross Border Loans are document heavy and the Mexican Authorities require original signatures on most items. The ability of a local Mortgage Broker or Loan Officer to hand deliver signed originals - in pinch - goes a long way towards a smooth closing.
3. Can you provide me with the names and telephone numbers of satisfied clients?
Who better to talk with then a previous customer who was well served by the efforts of the Mortgage Broker? Testimonials are key to almost any company’s success – regardless of the type of service offered. A Mortgage Broker with a proven tract record should be more than happy to arrange for potential new clients to speak with those who have already successfully funded. If the Broker refuses or makes excuses – move on to a Mortgage Professional who is elated to do so!
4. How many Banks or Lenders do you represent and what types of Loan Products do you offer?
As previously mentioned, some Brokers only work with limited products. As a borrower, your best chance of obtaining financing is to work with a Mortgage Broker who offers many options and has the expertise to channel your application into the right fit. Also, a skilled Mortgage Broker will compare and contrast the loan application against the various programs in an effort to come up with the most attractive terms for the client’s particular needs.
For example, a borrower who is purchasing purely as a short term investment and knows for certain the property will be sold within a few years – probably doesn’t want or need a 30 Year Fixed Rate Loan. This client would be better served by a 2, 3 or 5 Year Adjustable Rate Loan (ARM) with a lower, initial interest rate. However, if the Broker only offers Fixed Rate Loan Products – than that’s what the client is going to get – whether it’s the right fit or not. Conversely, a borrower purchasing or building the vacation home of their dreams and plans to enjoy the property for decades to come is not best served by an ARM and would likely be better served by a 20, 25 or 30 Year Fixed Loan. Mortgage Brokers who offer a variety of Loan Options typically have higher client satisfaction rates as they can not only strategize but also truly service the client’s needs.
5. Are you approved to work direct with the Banks or Lenders whose product you represent?
The answer to this question may seem obvious. If a Broker is marketing a loan product, then he must have direct access to the product – right? Wrong – sadly some people are not willing to put the time and effort into educating themselves on Cross Border Lending or go through the Lenders rigid Broker Approval Process. They merely hang a shingle announcing themselves as”Mexican Mortgage Brokers”. These firms take Mortgage Applications and all too frequently - large, “up front fees”. They then proceed to try and find an approved broker or direct lender to do the deal. Certainly, there are instances where this type of co-brokering of loans is legitimate and acceptable. However, your Mortgage Broker should have at least 1 or 2 Direct Lender Approvals before you make the decision to engage their services.
You want to work with an individual or firm who has made the effort to gain the Lender’s confidence, get trained in specific policies and protocols and who has the direct ear of the underwriting team who make the decisions on funding. In Mexico, the more Lenders a Broker is approved direct to represent – likely means a higher volume of loans closed, more products to offer potential clients and most importantly – the necessary experience and expertise to effectively close loans.
MEXLend, Inc. is a Mexican mortgage brokerage that currently represents 8 different lenders offering 75 different loan options in Dollars, Pesos and Euros for buyers looking to purchase vacation or investment property throughout Mexico – including products specifically for Canadian citizens. In announced results based upon post-closing client interviews conducted by Mexico’s largest US lender, MEXLend won the #1 mark of distinction for both client satisfaction and fastest closings for the second straight cycle. MEXLend can be reached at 322-132-7991 (in Vallarta), 917-779-9061 (while in the US or Canada), toll–free in Mexico by calling 1-800-3-Mi-Casa or go online at www.mexlend.com (For US and Euro loans) or www.mexlend.com.mx for Peso loans.
Pv Smile Celebrates New Office Location
Last Saturday, May 21st, PV Smile Dental celebrated the Grand Opening of its office at their new location at 111 Havre Street in the Hotel Zone.
Members of the American and Canadian communities in town and other dental professionals joined the fun to experience the new clinic and toast to the success of the relocated practice.
PV Smile was founded 7 years ago, when Dr. Noel Rivas moved from Guadalajara and settled in Puerto Vallarta to launch his cosmetic, restorative and dental implants practice.
Over the years he has formed a qualified team of dedicated professionals, largely due to continuing training and education, both in Mexico and abroad.
Shortly after 8:30 the ribbon was cut and guests enjoyed the event with a variety of appetizers, drinks and white wine.
The center piece of entertainment was a jukebox. It was Mexican style fun as guests were singing songs and the celebration continued until 2 a.m.
Everybody enjoyed the lively celebration wishing Dr. Rivas continuing success.
PV Smile ongoing mission is to give people more reasons to smile.
Members of the American and Canadian communities in town and other dental professionals joined the fun to experience the new clinic and toast to the success of the relocated practice.
PV Smile was founded 7 years ago, when Dr. Noel Rivas moved from Guadalajara and settled in Puerto Vallarta to launch his cosmetic, restorative and dental implants practice.
Over the years he has formed a qualified team of dedicated professionals, largely due to continuing training and education, both in Mexico and abroad.
Shortly after 8:30 the ribbon was cut and guests enjoyed the event with a variety of appetizers, drinks and white wine.
The center piece of entertainment was a jukebox. It was Mexican style fun as guests were singing songs and the celebration continued until 2 a.m.
Everybody enjoyed the lively celebration wishing Dr. Rivas continuing success.
PV Smile ongoing mission is to give people more reasons to smile.
Inauguration of equestrian center in Puerto Vallarta
The equestrian scene in Vallarta is anxiously awaiting the upcoming inauguration of Arena Vallarta in the village of Colorado located 20 minutes east of Puerto Vallarta International Airport. This Saturday, representatives from all levels of government will attend in honor of the new Center.
The center, a new state of the art equestrian center will be launched with a series of events this Saturday May 28. The events include 4 charreadas (rodeo) children’s charreada (10:00 AM), and 3 GALA charreadas at 12:30, 3:30 and 7:00 PM promising a fun filled day for horse and rodeo lovers everywhere.
This Saturday´s inauguration will welcome the state governor, the president of the Mexican Sporting association, Puerto Vallarta´s mayor, the commander of the 8th regional navy, secretary of tourism of the state of Jalisco, the president of the Tourism Board and the president of the Charro Association.
The center, a new state of the art equestrian center will be launched with a series of events this Saturday May 28. The events include 4 charreadas (rodeo) children’s charreada (10:00 AM), and 3 GALA charreadas at 12:30, 3:30 and 7:00 PM promising a fun filled day for horse and rodeo lovers everywhere.
This Saturday´s inauguration will welcome the state governor, the president of the Mexican Sporting association, Puerto Vallarta´s mayor, the commander of the 8th regional navy, secretary of tourism of the state of Jalisco, the president of the Tourism Board and the president of the Charro Association.
Organizers Announce Half Marathon 2011
Preparation is the key to success, and this is why this May, organizers have announced the Third Riviera Nayarit Touristic Half Marathon 2011 that will take place on November 19, but is already revving up the engines to attract a larger number of participants and to create a better competition.
The event organizers already have the support of the Mexican Athletics Federation, and of the Athletics Association of Nayarit, which is endorsed by the AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races). Mexican and international runners are now invited to participate in the third edition of the Touristic Half Marathon of Riviera Nayarit, which will take place on the main avenues of the Nuevo Vallarta touristic development.
SCENIC ROUTE
Extraordinary natural landscapes, golf courses, a marina, hotels, ocean views and 6.2 miles of navigable channels comprise the route that awaits runners amidst an ambiance that combines festivities, camaraderie and sports.
The formula to organize this half marathon has been the following: bring together the experience from top organizers, and choose an amazing place with first-class lodging and infrastructure, impeccable streets and exuberant beauty; secure the endorsement from the FMA and the State’s Athletics Association to guarantee the support of all pertaining authorities, and obtain the AIMS certification to give the event an international scope.
In previous years, Riviera Nayarit even caught the eye of the AIMS representatives that measured the route, who stated that in the more than 150 destinations that they’ve worked on, they hadn’t had an experience like the one that this route offers.
EVERYBODY RUN!
It’s easy to participate in the Touristic Half Marathon of Riviera Nayarit, whether in the 21 K or in the 10 K category. You can already register online at www.delcorredor.com using your credit card or through an EFT, and also at all Mistertenis stores, during the Leon, San Luis Potosi and the Atlas Marathon in Guadalajara, or even one day before the race at the registration table. Upon registration, runners will enjoy the following benefits:
1. Welcome lunch on Friday, November 18, 2011
2. Official t-shirt of the event
3. Commemorative medal to everyone who finishes the race satisfactorily
4. Time tracking at kilometer 10 and at the finish line, with the “Time Ipico-sports” system
5. Water and electrolyte supply along the race
6. Snack at the recovery area
7. Awards Brunch on Saturday, November 19, 2011
8. Official results published on the Internet website, starting at 13:00 hrs
9. Free photo downloads at: www.delcorredor.com
10. Official time record
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
www.MedioMaratonRivieraNayarit.com
The event organizers already have the support of the Mexican Athletics Federation, and of the Athletics Association of Nayarit, which is endorsed by the AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races). Mexican and international runners are now invited to participate in the third edition of the Touristic Half Marathon of Riviera Nayarit, which will take place on the main avenues of the Nuevo Vallarta touristic development.
SCENIC ROUTE
Extraordinary natural landscapes, golf courses, a marina, hotels, ocean views and 6.2 miles of navigable channels comprise the route that awaits runners amidst an ambiance that combines festivities, camaraderie and sports.
The formula to organize this half marathon has been the following: bring together the experience from top organizers, and choose an amazing place with first-class lodging and infrastructure, impeccable streets and exuberant beauty; secure the endorsement from the FMA and the State’s Athletics Association to guarantee the support of all pertaining authorities, and obtain the AIMS certification to give the event an international scope.
In previous years, Riviera Nayarit even caught the eye of the AIMS representatives that measured the route, who stated that in the more than 150 destinations that they’ve worked on, they hadn’t had an experience like the one that this route offers.
EVERYBODY RUN!
It’s easy to participate in the Touristic Half Marathon of Riviera Nayarit, whether in the 21 K or in the 10 K category. You can already register online at www.delcorredor.com using your credit card or through an EFT, and also at all Mistertenis stores, during the Leon, San Luis Potosi and the Atlas Marathon in Guadalajara, or even one day before the race at the registration table. Upon registration, runners will enjoy the following benefits:
1. Welcome lunch on Friday, November 18, 2011
2. Official t-shirt of the event
3. Commemorative medal to everyone who finishes the race satisfactorily
4. Time tracking at kilometer 10 and at the finish line, with the “Time Ipico-sports” system
5. Water and electrolyte supply along the race
6. Snack at the recovery area
7. Awards Brunch on Saturday, November 19, 2011
8. Official results published on the Internet website, starting at 13:00 hrs
9. Free photo downloads at: www.delcorredor.com
10. Official time record
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
www.MedioMaratonRivieraNayarit.com
Pitaya, a Cactus Fruit Found in Neighboring Nayarit
On the afternoon of May 4, while I was driving through La Peñita, I noticed a woman sitting on the corner of Main Street with a table overflowing with Guamúchil. I decided to stop the car so I could take some more photos. On the side of her table sat a medium blue plastic bowl filled with a few small semi-round and very odd looking things. Quite honestly, I wasn't sure if it was a type of food or an insect. She and her client explained that they are called Pitaya (pronounced pee-tie-yah).
Pitaya fruit comes from the Pitayo cactus (Stenocereus queretaroensis). The Pitayos are columnar in shape, and are very common in the arid zones of central and northern Mexico. The fruit has attractively colored pulp that ranges from bright red to yellow and orange. To eat it, you peel back the skin and eat the fruit as well as the numerous soft black seeds. It didn't occur to me to buy one at the time (why, I'm not sure), so I went back the following day. Luckily, she had another bowlful. These were larger, riper, and bright red inside. She told me that she was saving these "special ones" for a client, but agreed to sell one of them for 5 pesos. I was delighted! I walked home, washed it in Microdyn, and cut in in half (as you can see in the photo above).
The consistency is similar to that of a watermelon but less firm, and the flavor is mildly sweet and tastes like a pear. It is much better tasting than it looks, that's for sure. The woman explained that Pitayos bloom in the spring, are harvested, and commonly sold at local markets or transported to nearby cities at the end of April. In this particular case, both the Pitayas and Guamúchil were grown in the town of Cuastecomate, which is located east of Jaltemba Bay in the municipality of San Pedro Lagunillas, Nayarit.
This article was originally featured in the Jaltemba Bay Life Newsletter on May 16, 2011.
This article was originally featured in the Jaltemba Bay Life Newsletter on May 16, 2011.
Out of the Heat and into the Water
Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit offer a host of different water sports for all levels of ability to keep us in the ocean during the hot and humid summer months: amazing scuba diving and snorkeling, wakeboarding, kayaking and so forth. Below is a list of some of the more adventurous aquatic activities in and around Banderas Bay:
Surfing
By far one of the most popular water sports in the area, surfing (and boogie boarding) has long been an attraction for many visitors. The warm waters of the bay relieve surfers of the need for wetsuits and its soft sandy beaches make learning to surf even more pleasurable for children and adults alike. There are some fantastic breaks both to the north and south of Puerto Vallarta, with the most popular surf beaches found around Punta de Mita, Bucerias and Sayulita. Beginners will find plenty of surf schools providing top quality instruction and board hire, while the local surf communities are surprisingly friendly and accommodating to more experienced surfers.
Paddle Boarding
Paddle boarding or stand up paddle surfing came originally from Hawaii, where it was a method used by surfing instructors as a means of managing larger groups of students: they gained a better view and could see oncoming swells. Today, it is a pleasant, and relatively easy, pastime that involves balancing on an extra-large surfboard, either standing or on your knees, while using a paddle to navigate the sea beyond the breaking waves. For more adventurous and skilled paddlers, there is also plenty of scope for tricks and maneuvers as surfers catch the waves as they would with any long board. There are various places in the bay that rent paddleboards, including Sayulita, Bucerias and Punta de Mita.
Kite Surfing
January to June is the kite surfing season in Banderas Bay, when the onshore breeze provides just the right winds to make the area perfect for this evermore popular water sport, especially in Bucerias. The equipment can be expensive, so renting is a great option at first, and instruction is essential owing to the complexity of the activity. It combines various sport skills, such as surfing, wakeboarding and kite flying, giving you the freedom of near weightlessness and adrenaline. The equipment includes a board, similar to a wakeboard or snowboard, which is lightly attached to the feet and used to surf the waves, while you hold onto a traction kite, which helps you lift yourself over the water, flying or somersaulting through the air.
Sea Kayaking
There are many places in Puerto Vallarta that offer kayak rentals and tours of the bay. The water beyond the waves provides an idyllic setting for leisurely and safe kayaking. Los Arco beauty spot is a popular location as well as tours to Colomitos, just south of Boca de Tomatlán, where there is a picturesque sandy cove. Kayaking also provides the perfect opportunity to combine a snorkeling adventure, exploring the wonderful world beneath the surface of the ocean.
Sea-Doo / Jet Skis
For those who are looking for speed and adrenaline, renting a jet ski might well be the answer. Like an aquatic motorbike, you control the speed and direction of your excursion, blending freedom, velocity and exhilaration in an idyllic setting. Many rental companies offer combined tours that include Jet Ski rental and secluded beach breaks.
Wake boarding
Wake boarding combines the principles of water skiing, snowboarding and surfing. The rider is towed by a motorboat traveling between 18 and 25 miles per hour and navigates the water’s surface on a board similar to a snowboard. While beginners will be happy to simply hold on and avoid falling into the water, more experienced wake boarders find pleasure in the tricks and jumps that make the sport truly invigorating and addictive.
With such an array of thrilling water sports on offer in Banderas Bay, there is no reason to be hot and sticky this summer? Slap on the sunscreen and dive into the sea of possibilities – don’t get hot, get wet!
Destination for Upscale Shoppers
Cheryll Gillespie is a confessed compulsive shopper, and only after a few hours in Riviera Nayarit we can already see her luggage growing. “I came here with a small suitcase, and now I’ll have to send some things home via parcels service because I can’t carry all my luggage myself”, she says while smirking in complicity with her daughter Samantha, her co-host in Let’s Shop.
Gillespie raises her glass with an exotic fruit cocktail while she enjoys a manicure and pedicure in front of the Vallarta Palace Resort, which has been their home in this destination, while she states that shopping in Riviera Nayarit is a wonderful experience… to the extent that she can’t avoid shopping while she’s being pampered by the endless luxury offered at their hotel.
This is the way in which the Let’s Shop host gets ready for her show, which is broadcasted through CNBC. This time, she’s touring Riviera Nayarit, looking for the best shopping, the best Spas and the most exciting activities to share with her viewers.
Let’s Shop is a show that focuses on travel, shopping, lifestyle and cuisine, inspiring the spectator to enjoy different and entertaining activities.
The various boutiques and galleries located from Nuevo Vallarta to Punta Mita and Sayulita are the most exciting places to shop in Riviera Nayarit. Huichol art, architecture and design set the tourist infrastructure apart in Mexico’s Pacific Treasure.
Cheryll and Samantha are also looking to promote the adventure and activities that can be enjoyed in this destination to round up a day of shopping, making it a memorable experience.
CNBC World is a TV network that reaches over 300 million homes around the globe. Its shows are some of the most respected in the world of finances and most of its viewers are affluent decision makers.
Gillespie raises her glass with an exotic fruit cocktail while she enjoys a manicure and pedicure in front of the Vallarta Palace Resort, which has been their home in this destination, while she states that shopping in Riviera Nayarit is a wonderful experience… to the extent that she can’t avoid shopping while she’s being pampered by the endless luxury offered at their hotel.
This is the way in which the Let’s Shop host gets ready for her show, which is broadcasted through CNBC. This time, she’s touring Riviera Nayarit, looking for the best shopping, the best Spas and the most exciting activities to share with her viewers.
Let’s Shop is a show that focuses on travel, shopping, lifestyle and cuisine, inspiring the spectator to enjoy different and entertaining activities.
The various boutiques and galleries located from Nuevo Vallarta to Punta Mita and Sayulita are the most exciting places to shop in Riviera Nayarit. Huichol art, architecture and design set the tourist infrastructure apart in Mexico’s Pacific Treasure.
Cheryll and Samantha are also looking to promote the adventure and activities that can be enjoyed in this destination to round up a day of shopping, making it a memorable experience.
CNBC World is a TV network that reaches over 300 million homes around the globe. Its shows are some of the most respected in the world of finances and most of its viewers are affluent decision makers.
Visitors Recommend Riviera Nayarit
Riviera Nayarit, the northern part of Banderas Bay in the neighboring State of Nayarit, is a charming destination that captivates everyone, and proof of this is that 98% of all who visit Mexico’s Pacific Treasure would recommend it to their family and friends, according to a study made by the Convention and Visitors Bureau of this destination.
The quality of services, cleanliness and safety, but mainly the hospitality of the local people are the defining characteristics of Riviera Nayarit. The beaches and amazing natural settings are qualities that capture the hearts of visitors, according to the data generated by the survey.
According to the survey, 75% of all tourists in Riviera Nayarit would “most likely” recommend the destination after spending their vacations here, and 23% said they would “probably” do so.
The results were also generated for the three micro destinations that compose Riviera Nayarit. Therefore, 75% would “most likely” recommend Bahia de Banderas, while 23% would “probably” do so. 75% would “most likely” recommend Rincon de Guayabitos, while 22% would “probably” do so. San Blas was completely endorsed by its visitors, because 74% would “most likely” recommend it, and the remaining 26% would “probably” do so.
The same study made by the CVB revealed that 75% of all visitors that come to Riviera Nayarit did it after enjoying a previous satisfactory experience (40%), or after the recommendation of a friend or family member (35%).
The survey also allowed visitors to evaluate the different aspects that influence their travel experience on a scale of 1 to 10. Riviera Nayarit also achieved high ratings in this part of the study.
The most important values during visitors’ stays in Riviera Nayarit were hospitality, cleanliness and safety. Hospitality in Bahia de Banderas was rated with a 9.3, Rincon de Guayabitos with a 9.6, and the same for San Blas.
The cleanliness of our beaches and touristic services were highly appreciated. Bahia de Banderas received a cleanliness rating of 9.1, Rincon de Guayabitos 8.9 and San Blas 8.3
Tourists pointed out that they felt safe during their stay and praised this aspect of their travel experience. Bahia de Banderas was rated with a 9.1, Rincon de Guayabitos with a 9.3 and San Blas with a 9.3 in security.
Happy Snapping
My camera needs a waterproof housing, but some of the newer models you can use in the pool and take snorkelling without any protection at all!!! I’ve taught skills to children in the pool with their parents filming, giving them a great memory of that first underwater breath. Probably the equivalent of my parents filming me bathing in a plastic tub with a rubber duck, except the quality now is better than just different shades of yellow!! Those cameras are fantastic fun but only to about 5m, and they don’t have a white balance function which is crucial to taking great underwater photos.
So, what is white balance? Every reader of this article should have a white balance function on their cameras, but what is it for? Well, as we descend into the ocean, we lose colour.
The suns ray is distracted and the water absorbs colour. By taking a white slate down on our dive, we can point our camera at it and set the ‘white balance’ at each depth. This way, our photos don’t look blue/green as the camera is clever enough to adjust its colours in conjunction to the light that depth. I actually don’t like to carry too much with me when I dive, so I just roll the leg of my wetsuit or shorts up and use my thigh instead of a white slate. My thighs rarely see the sun, so it works perfectly! An alternative especially for close up still shots is to use a strobe or high powered flash. Ideal for nudibranches and seahorses, just turn off the white balance and let the artificial light do the work for you.
The key to taking great photo’s are good buoyancy skills and an understanding of your camera. When I get a new camera, I practice taking photo’s on land 1st, ensuring I know where all the settings are and how to use them. Once you have your camera mastered on land you are ready to go diving with it.
Underwater cameras vary in price from $200 to whatever you want to spend. I have a small digital camera, as like I said, I don’t like diving with a ton of equipment and it is great. Used correctly, you can get some great quality photos and videos from them.
There are disposable cameras for use underwater, but these do not have white balance on them, but any memory of your dive is better than none.
A friend of mine who loves gadgets came diving with us last year in a mask camera! It looked like a James Bond accessory with 2 lights on each side of his head and a something in the middle that looked like a gun sight. It also took video’s, but the quality was poor as the white balance couldn’t be set. The boy was happy with his toy though and that was all that mattered.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Puerto Vallarta May 2011, Cultural Festival Calendar of Events
Wednesday, May 25
Contemporary Dance
Adriana Quinto
"Fragments of Carmen"
Opera-based Choreography
Downtown
8:15 p.m.
Thursday, May 26
Local Talent Night
AQSTI-K and Jorge Aguilera Band
Acoustic Rock and Indie Pop / Rock
Downtown
8:15 pm
Friday, May 27
Municipal Folklore Group Xiutla
Downtown
8:15 p.m.
Alternative Activity May 27
Luna Sureste Peninsula Plaza
Music + Photo + Wine + Gastronomy
Multidisciplinary event for the whole family in a single framework.
Saturday, May 28
CLOSING EVENT
RADAID * Group Presentation
World music and rhythms
Downtown
8:15 pm
Saturday, May 28
Alternative Youth: Closing Fiesta Electronics
MARTIN PARRA
Downtown
10:00 p.m.
Considered one of the greatest DJs that Mexico has produced, through constant touring Europe, mainly Germany, Holland and France.
Film festival
"A celebration of life.”
Classical films that captivated moviegoers.
Cinemark Plaza Caracol 8:00pm
Contemporary Dance
Adriana Quinto
"Fragments of Carmen"
Opera-based Choreography
Downtown
8:15 p.m.
Thursday, May 26
Local Talent Night
AQSTI-K and Jorge Aguilera Band
Acoustic Rock and Indie Pop / Rock
Downtown
8:15 pm
Friday, May 27
Municipal Folklore Group Xiutla
Downtown
8:15 p.m.
Alternative Activity May 27
Luna Sureste Peninsula Plaza
Music + Photo + Wine + Gastronomy
Multidisciplinary event for the whole family in a single framework.
Saturday, May 28
CLOSING EVENT
RADAID * Group Presentation
World music and rhythms
Downtown
8:15 pm
Saturday, May 28
Alternative Youth: Closing Fiesta Electronics
MARTIN PARRA
Downtown
10:00 p.m.
Considered one of the greatest DJs that Mexico has produced, through constant touring Europe, mainly Germany, Holland and France.
Film festival
"A celebration of life.”
Classical films that captivated moviegoers.
Cinemark Plaza Caracol 8:00pm
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