Top Farmer’s Markets in and Around PV and Nuevo Vallarta

Near Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta, there are a variety of farmer’s markets where you can go shopping and buy wonderful items at reasonable prices. These markets run every Autumn until the end of spring each year. If you are looking to buy something either as a gift for Christmas, birthdays or simply an item to have for yourself, you should visit these markets in the coastal towns along the Banderas Bay’s stretch.

Here’s a rundown of some of the top spots that offer the best items that are spiced up with that unique Vallarta flavor. Be sure to check their websites too for any relevant information.

Courtesy: Old Town Market
Courtesy: Old Town Market

Old Town Farmer’s Market (www.oldtownfm.com)

This is one of Puerto Vallarta’s hit markets that offers a great variety of fare and souvenirs every Saturday (9:30am- 2:00pm) from October until April. It’s a “producers only” event where you can find a variety of fine selected farm-fresh products, artisan foods, handicrafts, art, jewelry, clothing, community education and even live music. The vendors must be residents of Puerto Vallarta who lives within a 50 miles radius. All the products are locally made, baked and grown locally.

Marina Vallarta’s Market

With operating hours from 6-10 pm every Thursday, this high end market is frequented by people who want to explore one of Puerto Vallarta’s chicest neighborhoods and want to shop during evening. It occupies Marina Vallarta’s wide boardwalks and offers a mixed variety of products that include home decorations, natural soaps, artisan souvenirs and many more. Because of its late afternoon / early evening opening times, it is best that you go early afternoon to stroll along the walkway while the sun sets and have dinner at some of the finest restaurants around the area. Marina Vallarta’s market runs from October until May.

Mercado del Pueblo (mercadodelpueblo.org)

Sayulita’s version of a farmer’s market, never fails to entertain shoppers with its live music and entertainment. Around 80 vendors ply their trade here and sells natural and organic products plus many original native products. They also offer vegetables like relish and pickles, meat products, flowers, coffee and baked goods. It runs every Friday from 10 am to 2 pm until May.

Mercado Huanacaxtle (www.sayulitabeach.com/mercado-huanacaxtle)

Held every Sunday at La Cruz Marina, it is a home for more than 170 vendors who sell a tremendous line ups of native goods that include handicrafts, clothing, paintings artworks, jewelries, food products and even beehives. This is one of the largest markets in Banderas Bay.

Forever Spring Farmer’s Market (www.facebook.com/foreverspringfarmersmarket)

Located in Bucerias, this farmer’s market runs from 9am-1pm every Wednesday. Real appetizing goods are the specialties you can buy here that include cheese from El Tuito, vegetarian foods, Indian curries, sauces, jams, smoked meats and craftsman baked goods which you can buy wheat free or regular.

Marina Nuevo Vallarta (www.bestofnuevovallarta.com)

This fiesta-like market located at Nuevo Vallarta, marina features a bountiful array of products that include foods, crafts, clothing, glassware, jewelries, even dance lessons and yoga displays. You can take a leisurely walk while listening to great live music and have fun enrolling in some dance classes. This market is held from 9am-2pm every Saturday during high season from Autumn through spring.

Sea Turtles in Riviera Nayarit

Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit has long been a top tourist destination and locations like Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta are the crown jewels, so to speak, of the region. The tourist trade has done wonders for these destinations, making them vibrant and bustling, What is particularly enchanting is the way that the area’s wildlife lives side by side with tourism: sea turtle season being a great example of how a vacation in Riviera Nayarit will have you up close and personal with one of nature’s most beautiful creatures.

Sea Turtles in Riviera Nayarit

Sea Turtles are a beloved and longstanding part of the Riviera Nayarit ecological make-up, but in recent years their numbers have declined. Therefore, for the last thirty years Riviera Nayarit locals, hotels, restaurants and tour companies have been getting together to fight for the survival of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle, and other similar species.

The beaches of Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta are host to swathes of turtles every year between July and December, as they ready themselves to bring forth the next generation. Pregnant sea turtles spend hours and hours digging the perfect nest for their eggs, and it’s not uncommon to see a whole group of them waddling about the beach in front of Villa La Estancia Residence in Riviera Nayarit at night during turtle season. It really is quite a sight to see!

Once the turtles deem their nests to be satisfactory, they will lay their eggs, bury them and return to the sea for another year. The cycle begins again when the baby Turtles hatch. Baby Sea Turtles have a rocky start in life; between airborne, landlocked and sea dwelling predators, poachers, and the struggle to even get out of their shells, let alone the danger of being dug up and devoured before hatching. Statistics reckon that 1 in 1000 will make it to adulthood. So you can see that they need all the help they can get.

Helping Sea Turtles in Riviera Nayarit

This is where guests and owners at Villa La Estancia Residences come in and the many dedicated conservationists. It’s very easy to do your bit for the endangered Sea Turtles in Riviera Nayarit while you’re on vacation in Banderas Bay. For a start you can be sure that you don’t interfere with the females while they lay and bury their eggs! You should also report anyone who does to the hotel or to local authorities.

Also, you can support one of the many conservation projects in the city by visiting open days and attending hatchings. Attending turtle releases really is beneficial; research has shown that spectators at such events ward off some of the turtle’s natural predators as well as poachers! Ask the activities team at Villa La Estancia Residences to tell you where the next sea turtle release will be in Riviera Nayarit. You may find there is one planned right outside the hotel.

Nothing makes a vacation truly magical quite like seeing these adorable reptiles scurrying towards the sea for the first time!

Vallarta botanical garden orchid

Recommended Day Trip – the Vallarta Botanical Gardens

One of the advantages of purchasing a slice of paradise at Villa La Estancia Residences is the choice of wonderful things to do for a day trip or afternoon excursion. The Vallarta Botanical Gardens, on the south shore of Puerto Vallarta make a short road trip from Nuevo Vallarta and are a delightful day out for all the family or a leisurely afternoon with your loved one.

Cooling off at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens

The gardens themselves are further up into the mountains on the south shore of Puerto Vallarta, a good hour’s drive from Villa La Estancia Residences in Nuevo Vallarta. As such, you can expect the climate to be much cooler, which is a dream come true during the humid summer months. The Vallarta Botanical Gardens are a great place to go if the heat down on the beaches is getting too oppressive. When you arrive at the gates you’ll be greeted by a member of staff who’ll take a small entry fee from you before you go in. If you are a permanent resident at Villa La Estancia Residences, you might even think about joining the gardens as a member.

Best Kept Secret

The Vallarta Botanical Gardens, and what they do, are probably the best kept secret in Puerto Vallarta. All the money made from these stunning gardens go to the upkeep of the gardens themselves as well as a number of educational and conservation projects. Proceeds from the gift shop, entrance fees and restaurant go to these charitable foundations and, indirectly, help to educate locals in conservation, protects and support Macaws as well as other Parrot species, and keep the local flora and fauna in good health. Many of the plants you see on the new Malecon in Puerto Vallarta were also donated by the gardens. A visit to these gardens is an indirect contribute to the health and welfare of Mexico’s wildlife and landscape.

Recommendations

When you arrive in the park you can head straight to the main building, if you wish, and get a bite to eat in the restaurant which, like the gift shop, showcases local produce alongside its other delicious fare. In the main building you will also find the Orchid Gallery (which the gardens are rightly proud of) and the day beds, where you can sit back and relax in tranquillity. Taking a book, kindle tablet is a great way to while away an afternoon in the cool fresh air.

The many trails through the park are well sign posted and have been designed to show you the very best of the landscapes encompassed by the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. You can, for example, take one of the trails that goes down by the river and take a dip, if you’re brave enough to face the cold water. Alternatively you could take one of the extremely popular jungle trails which will take you through dense, lush jungle scenes. Either way you’ll see a variety of plants including, but not limited to, Vanilla, Coffee, Tobacco and Cacti.

The Gardens are open 9am – 6pm (Tuesday to Sunday) from April to November, and if you come at the right time you might catch the bird festival or flower show!

5 Tips for Purchasing Real Estate in Mexico

5 Tips for Purchasing Real Estate in Mexico

When planning to buy real estate in Mexico with the purpose of having it rented out to vacationers or to enjoy it as a summer or winter home, here are 5 tips to consider so that your purchase works perfectly in your favor.

  1. The Neighborhood where it’s situated is crucial
  2. When purchasing real estate in Mexico, the location of your second home is important, especially if you are going to rent it when you are not going to be using it. For example, if you want to rent to younger couples and groups, then you should buy property close to all the action in Mexico’s top tourist zones, or if you want to rent to the high end market, the location should be exclusive and quiet, yet within easy reach of fine dining and cultural activities. For example, Villa La Estancia Residences are perfect for renting to those seeking luxury and high end facilities, while they are close enough to Nuevo Vallarta’s restaurants and its shopping centers as well as Puerto Vallarta, Bucerias and Punta Mita.

  3. Seek Real Estate in Mexico with the best amenities:
  4. As potential buyers of real estate in Mexico who want quality vacations, a snowbird sanctuary or a new life, the amenities of your property are of paramount concern. Look for a place which has existing modern and excellent amenities. It should have easy access to the beach, swimming pool(s), be close to areas for fine dining and preferably have a gym – these are the kinds of thing renters are looking for, a aspects that will make living in your home away from home all the more comfortable. Enjoying facilities nearby are big pluses like a golf course, spa & treatment centers and excellent restaurants.

    Also, try checking current projects or future facilities being built in the area like malls, shopping centers, theme parks, cinemas and a transport station. Being close to service oriented companies makes a location all the more attractive; so you should keep this in mind. Internet access and a good signal for televisions and communication are essential must haves for any renter.

    At Villa la Estancia Residences, you have all of these elements in one location, without even leaving the complex. You have access to one of Banderas Bay’s best beaches, a complete fitness center, gourmet restaurants, a world class spa, swimming pools and even room service! Resort living is certainly one of the more luxurious options when choosing real estate in Mexico.

  5. Inquire about possible developments and constructions in the area:
  6. Make a full inspection of the place or inquire with the concerned local government about future plans that they may have some hints into. There can be big companies planning to build modern and sophisticated homes or condos which you might have to compete with for the years to come. Check the surroundings. The property you’re about to buy can provide a good view of the ocean sunset, but having a big vacant lot at its front gives the possibility of someone buying it and building a higher structure than yours. It can erase your property’s advantage and can affect largely potential renters.

    Villa la Estancia Residences is highly priviledged in this aspect as no one is going to spoil your view. The complex is built right on the beach and your will have a sea view from your condo. Also, you can be sure that the area has plans for expansion, but as it is a hotel zone, your real estate investment in Mexico will always be in demand. You also benefit from the marketing that the hotel and the local government do to promote these areas.

  7. The risk of natural disasters
  8. It’s better to invest in a place that is safe against the occurrence of natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes. As an investor who puts in a lot of hard earned money for a property, you should look at all possible angles to save your property from these nature’s havocs. It would be best to invest in an area close to or in near proximity to fire departments, local government aid facilities and police stations.

    Villa La Estancia has been built according to strict architectural regualations to withstand hurricane force winds and earth tremors.

  9. Real estate professionals and administrative experts.
  10. Get a real estate professional who deserves your full trust and will give their all in giving you the best advice. Once you have decided and bought a property, look for a person who can take care of it and will help you out in looking for potential customers such as a property manager and rental agent. Find personnel that are capable of giving efficient administrative services. Make a research and know the feedbacks of their past clients. You should be careful in your choice because you must have the people who would work hard enough that can spell the difference between failure and success in your endeavor.

    Villa La Estancia Residences offers a property management service with the option for rentals to owners who wish to contract these services.

A Romantic Horseback Riding Tour in Riviera Nayarit

Whether or not you’re usually an equine aficionado there’s something overwhelmingly romantic and idyllic about horseback treks in Riviera Nayarit. If you’ve ever wanted to gallop along a beach at sunset on horseback then you’re definitely going to love a vacation in Puerto Vallarta or Riviera Nayarit because there are plenty of companies which offer just that experience.

Horseback Riding on the Beach in Riviera Nayarit

The beach treks are the shortest and most popular (due to the romantic nature of the activity) of all the horseback hikes offered in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. As they’re shorter and the terrain is smoother you’re in less danger of becoming saddle sore by the end of the trek, and they’re also easier to personalize. Cantering through the surf at sunset (or sunrise) is possibly the most iconic vacation activity for couples, and Riviera Nayarit’s scenery will really perfect it. A trot along these beaches will infuse the rest of your vacation with an idyllic, romantic atmosphere.

If you want to get out of the touristy areas then you could take one of the treks that takes you out to the smaller towns and ranches in Riviera Nayarit. Your guide may even be able to tell you a little about the history of these towns and ranches so be sure to ask them. Perhaps the ultimate trek for adventurers, however, are the jungle hikes! These treks are longer, so be ready for a little saddle ache, but take you through some of the most stunning and wonderful landscapes that Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit have to offer to you. The local flora and fauna are fascinating and will definitely help to make your vacation in Puerto Vallarta unforgettable.

So whether you decide to trot around the ranches of the Riviera Nayarit, gallop down the pristine beach of Nuevo Vallarta and Bucerias or weave through the lush jungles that lie just outside the city outskirts you can be sure your trip to Puerto Vallarta will be made unforgettable by a horseback tour.

Mexico Property Advice for Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit, with its fabulous beaches and scenic landscapes makes owning a Mexico property a dream come true for homeseekers and investors. Before preparing your finances and booking the removal trucks, here is some advice to heed for buying Mexico property in Riviera Nayarit.

Advice for buying Mexico Property in Riviera Nayarit

Consider both Full and Fractional Property Ownership

If you have the money to pay for it, becoming a full property owner in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico is a great choice. A special bank trust is mandatory for non-Mexican residents to purchase land within 50 km of the beach because it is classed as federal land. However, the bank trust, known as fideicomiso, is very secure and gives you all the recognized legal rights to the property. Fractional ownership is also a option in many high end Mexican properties, which means you can invest in a more luxurious home for less.

Consult a Trustworthy Real Estate Agent

Unless you know exactly which property you wish to purchase, such as in the case of homeowners buying Villa La Estancia Residences direct from the developer, you would be best advised to select a reputable real estate agent. Finding the right agent in Riviera Nayarit for your needs can be a tedious process as there are so many realtors to choose from. The best advice is to look for real estate agents with the right qualifications and extensive experience, such as being a member of the prestigious Mexico Professional Real Estate Association (AMPI). The rest is up to how you click and if you feel that the agent has fully understood what you are looking for.

Mortgages

Many people do not realize that they can take out a Mexican mortgage to purchase a property in Riviera Nayarit. Nowadays, owning a condo or a home in Riviera Nayarit is possible through a Mexican bank mortgage for foreigners. It can do wonders in your finances by giving you the freedom and flexibility in handling payments. Homeseekers interested in buying a property at Villa La Estancia Residences, Riviera Nayarit can also take advantage of developer financing for a limited time, providing financing for up to 10 years.

Purchase Times and Processes

You should anticipate that the purchasing process time will take a longer than doing it in your home country. This includes the process of qualifying you for a mortgage and preparing all the paperwork to make everything smooth and legal. It’s not complicated, it’s just better to be informed beforehand so as not to lose your patience.

What to know about Buying Land in Mexico

Buying land in Riviera Nayarit is a little more tricky, and although there are many lots for sale, there are those that can’t be sold. Many of the most appealing plots of land are restricted for sale to both foreigners and Mexicans because they are what is known as “ejido” land. Ejido land is that which belongs to a particular community and can only be leased and not sold. Talk to a licensed agent if you are set on buying land, he or she will be able to direct you to legitimate lands for sale.

Being a property owner in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico is a big decision but one that will bring years of enjoyment for you and your family. For more advice, leave your questions in the comments box.

two bedroom suite

Tips for Decorating your Property at Villa La Estancia

Don’t make the same errors that many first time property purchasers do in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta with your furnishings at Villa La Estancia Residences. Remember, you probably come from a cold, dry climate, and we have a different climate in Banderas Bay that is hot and humid for much of the year. There is also a rainy season that starts in mid-June, then continues through October. This season is also a very humid time, so properties here have to have annual maintenance and careful consideration about the kinds of materials you choose for your beach home.

The good news for those purchasing a property at Villa La Estancia is that you can purchase a furniture package that is designed especially for your property and you can be sure that the essential maintenance that is required in humid climates is met by your maintenance fees.

Nevertheless, here are some tips if you are thinking about decorating your property at Villa La Estancia yourself that will come in very handy.

  1. Invest in an Interior Designer: Investing in an interior designer is a great idea, especially when you consider just how luxurious your second home is at one of the topic hotels in Riviera Nayarit. Start by interviewing several designers, then compare their rates, and always check their references. You have to have a good working relationship with your designer, so make sure you like and get along with them. Consider it a marriage; you have to have great chemistry with your designer. Negotiate all quotes, and stay within your budget. There are so many companies to choose from, that you will have good grounds for negotiation.
  2. Do the Work Yourself: It is always more affordable and fun if you can do the shopping yourself. Take a week or two off and check out all the shops in Puerto Vallarta; you will surely find items to meet your style in the many new stores in Bay of Banderas. Then go on a ride to Guadalajara where you will be amazed at the numerous options of shops. Outside the city is Tonala, where you can purchase many items directly from the creator at superb prices.
  3. Interiors for Rental Market: Are you planning on putting your property on the rental market? If you are, then you better be careful. This is why you will need an interior decorator’s skills. The interior decorator will know the exact type of fabrics to choose from along with linens and draperies. These type of items must handle traffic, children, and sunlight.
  4. Corrosion Protection: Metal corrosion will occur if you have any metal furniture or metal on your window treatments. Corrosion is a common problem in the tropics, and having WD40 on hand is important.
  5. Tropical Wood Furniture: Wooden furniture always looks amazing in properties, but they also attract termites, which can be a common problem in humid climates. If you use this type of furnishings, then make sure you have the place fumigated regularly or opt for tropical woods that have better resistance to damaging insects.
  6. Modern Plastic Furniture: Modern plastic furniture looks amazing in the modern skyscraper units, but they also have to be taken care of. They can’t be put in the direct sun, because they can fade and melt, then they also leave an unpleasant scent when this occurs.
  7. Use Less At First: Use less furnishings at first with your new property. There is no reason that you have to furnish the entire property at once. Add bright, vibrant colors and just a few pieces to start out with. When you meet new friends, then ask them for decorating ideas, and you can get ideas when you visit their homes. This is the best way to flatter a new friend when you use a part of their décor in your own property.
villa la estancia real estate nuevo vallarta

Utilities and Expenses of Homeownership in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Purchasing a luxury residence at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit near Puerto Vallarta in Mexico offers many elegant benefits to homeowners, including making the payment of utilities and expenses relating to running your home simple. Not only will you be able to find support and advice with the Villa La Estancia Residences homeowners’ association but many of your monthly expenses are covered by your maintenance fees.

villa la estancia real estate nuevo vallarta

However, owning a property in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta can seem daunting for some homeseekers, which is why we have compiled a list of tips to help you navigate your way around the expenses and practicalities of homeownership in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Put Utility Bills in your Name

There are a number of circumstances when you will be required to provide proof of address in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, such as immigration procedures, getting a Riviera Nayarit or Puerto Vallarta driving license and so forth. Making sure that you have at least one utility bill in your name will save you the trouble and risk of carrying the deeds to your property with you to carry out simple formalities.

Pre-Payment

If you are not planning to live in Riviera Nayarit or Puerto Vallarta throughout all the seasons, you have the option to pre-pay many of your bills in preparation for your absence. Villa La Estancia residences in Riviera Nayarit make it easy for homeowners who can pre-pay maintenance fees or leave a voucher to authorize payments.

Open a Bank Account

Having a Mexican bank account will come in very useful and is fairly straight forward if you are planning to live in Mexico or spend your winters here. Not only can you manage your utility bills and expenses but also transfer funds internationally. The best advice is to choose a bank that has on-line services and great customer service. Many banks in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta employ staff with a good level of English.

Maintenance Fees

Each condo or residential complex will be different, but most, like Villa La Estancia Residences, will charge maintenance fees every month. Some properties may charge fees quarterly and give discounts for advance payments.

Property Taxes

Property taxes or “predial” are due each year in January. Paying your property taxes is simple enough or you can pay online. You will need your Property Tax ID number (Cuenta Catastral) and a copy of the deeds to your property, or the previous year’s bill. You get a discount if you pay in January of February. Villa La Estancia Residences fractional property owners will not need to worry about these taxes as this expense is included in your maintenance fees.

Income from Rentals

Some Villa La Estancia Residences homeowners choose to rent their properties during those times when they are not occupying their luxury home in Riviera Nayarit. This is equally true of fractional owners during their allotted time. Renting your property can help offset your maintenance costs, although you must ensure that you seek advice regarding taxes on your income from rentals in Mexico.

Villa la Estancia Residences Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico’s newest tourist destination, is breaking the mold on typical Mexican tourism with a scintillating combination of real estate opportunities, luxury hotels, gorgeous beaches and slew of quaint, fishing villages. Stretching for over 200 miles along the coast of Mexico’s Pacific rim, Riviera Nayarit is a haven for travelers and homeseekers looking for something different. The unique blend of culture, art and modernity create a masterpiece for the senses and those who visit the area are always reluctant to leave.

Situated just north of Puerto Vallarta’s international airport, this corner of paradise is home to stunning Nuevo Vallarta, a luxurious neighborhood of world-class hotels (including our very own Villa La Estancia), stunning golf courses, upscale homes and a series of canals that lead to the region’s most multifaceted marina. An ideal place for those looking to stay in the heart of it all, Nuevo Vallarta provides access to the traditional charm and modern luxuries of Puerto Vallarta, as well as day trips to some of Riviera Nayarit’s most beloved seaside villages.

Gracing the northern end of Banderas Bay all the way to San Blas, one of Mexico’s most historic ports, is a series of charming towns that offer a little bit of something for everyone. Visit Punta Mita for a sanctuary of turquoise waters, unbelievable marine life and one of the world’s most fascinating hidden beaches. Spend the day in Sayulita, a world-renowned surf-town bustling with boutique shops, delicious eateries and all things water related. Or simply head to Bucerias, a seaside escape, just minutes from Nuevo Vallarta, overflowing with countless restaurants and a myriad of opportunities to experience life to its fullest.

Wherever your time in Riviera Nayarit takes you, one thing is for sure, the awe-inspiring vistas and nostalgic nature will enrapture you from the minute you arrive until it’s time to go home. And just in case you never want to go home
 check out Villa La Estancia Residences, a luxury real estate opportunity you don’t want to miss.

Puerto Vallarta 2nd Best Place to Retire According to CNN

According to a recent article on the CNN website , Puerto Vallarta comes second place after Portugal’s Algarve for the best place to retire in the world. Among the retirement destinations mentioned on the list of amazing locations to retire were Cayo in Belize, Languedoc in France, Abruzzo in Italy, Medellín in Colombia and Hua Hin in Thailand.

Puerto Vallarta one of the Best Places to Retire

The CNN’s article regarding the world’s best places to retire confirms what we have known for a long time at Villa La Estancia Residences. Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have so much to offer retirees and makes for an amazing place to relocate or enjoy a second home.

Amongst Puerto Vallarta’s features that were mentioned in the CNN article were its beaches, fishing, shopping, restaurants as well as the picturesque downtown area with its cobblestone streets. The article also mentions the convenience of direct flights to Puerto Vallarta’s international airport from the United States and its tropical climate, comparing it to Hawaii.

We think you will agree, it’s great to see Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit getting the recognition that it deserves as a number one place to retire. If you don’t believes us, come and check it out for yourself with our Try and Buy offer.