Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016

Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016

The Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 will be held at the Riviera Molino Plaza, which is located in the Zona Romantica in Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, Mexico. This is the fourth edition of this event and will be held on Saturday February 20, from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon. Anyone interested in Mexico real estate, and Puerto Vallarta real estate in particular, are encouraged to attend so that you can meet professionals and other like minded people to learn all the information needed to purchase any type of property in Mexico.

Home buyers, investors and property owners welcome

The Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 is recommended for home buyers, investors, and property sellers. Anyone with an interest in real estate will benefit from attending the fair. Even those who may be looking for a change of career. It is a great place to mingle and meet people in the know when it comes to real estate in Puerto Vallarta.

Topics for Discussion at Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016

The Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 promises to bring experts from Mexico, the United States, and Canada to offer valuable information and tips on the process of purchasing property in Mexico and taxation. There will also be all types of exhibitors who are there to answer questions and give advice on Mexico property ownership, notary services, insurance on properties, banking in Mexico, rental potential, architecture and interiors, and there will also be exhibitors who offer advice on health and wellness.

The Panel of Real Estate Experts

The most important advantage of attending the Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 is the Panel of Professionals who will offer valuable information for investors and property owners. Speakers include, Cameron MacIntosh, a Canadian accountant, Cindy DuChateau, an accountant from the United States, Carl Timothy from Timothy Real Estate Group, Jessica Riedesser, a real estate attorney, and one of the top Mexican tax specialists who will talk about rental revenues, capital gains, and how the two are handled between Mexico and your home country.

The Vallarta Real Estate Fair 2016 will have more than twenty exhibitors providing valuable information for anyone with an interest in real estate in Puerto Vallarta and Mexico.

When: February 20th starting at 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Where: Rivera Molino Plaza, in the Romantic Zone (Old Town Vallarta).

Mexico Property Advice

Mexico Property Advice

If you are thinking about purchasing property in Mexico but you are a bit wary, you are not alone. While there really is nothing to fear when it comes to purchasing real estate in Mexico it can be a bit daunting, and you are right to be here seeking some Mexico property advice before making your investment. This article is aimed at people like you who want to find out more about Mexico property purchasing.

Mexico Property Advice

Get help from someone you trust

It is recommended (but not essential) that you hire an attorney who is familiar with property laws in Mexico and who can speak both Spanish and English. Working with a reputable professional real estate agent whom you trust is another alternative. You will however, need the services of an accredited notary public.

Select the property you want, then verbally agree on a price

The first step is to find the appropriate property for your requirements and desires then agree a price verbally.

Get a sales agreement (Convenio de Compra/Venta)

The next step is to get a “Convenio de Compra/Venta” also known as a sales agreement, which is where your attorney or notary will come in handy. This agreement should cover all the property costs, any exclusions or inclusions and a deposit (generally 5-10%, and if you cancel your purchase, then the deposit is non-refundable).

Property Trust

Non Mexicans need to set up a property trust known as a fideicomiso if the property that you are wanting to purchase is within the 50km border zone, which includes the coastlines. If the property is not within the border zone, then usually no trust will need to be set up. This can be done at most reputable banks and is recommended over having some private third party “lend” their name.

Permission to purchase land

The Foreign Secretary Office must grant permission for you to purchase land in Mexico, and this permission is called the “Calvo Clause”, which states you are not seeking any foreign jurisdiction for the property you are wishing to purchase.

Consulte a Notary Public

If the property that you are purchasing is being sold by a real estate developer, then seek advice from a Notary Public, so the Notary Public can check for all permits. If you are buying directly from the seller, you will need the help of notary to ensure that all tax bills, utilities bills and any service fees on the land have been paid.

Ask to see a copy of the deed

Ask the seller of the property for a copy of the property deed. The Notary Public will make sure the deeds are legal and you should ask the Notary Public to make sure the land is not ejido land, which means that its sale is restricted.

Immigration Status

Make sure that your immigration status is legal when you purchase. That means you will need to have a valid 6 month tourist permit or official visa, so the Mexican government knows you are legally allowed to be in the country.

Prepare Documents

Make sure you have copies of any marriage or birth certificates, your passport, migratory documents, etc and be prepared to have them translated by an official translator (known in Mexico as a “perito”) and apostilled.

Capital Gains Tax

The seller is responsible to pay all Capital Gains Tax unless you, the buyer, have agreed to pay or divide these taxes.

Final Payment

The final payment will be made at the notary public’s office at the signing. You may wish to have your attorney with you when paying with cash or financing from a bank.

If you would like anymore Mexico property advice, click here.

Swim with Dolphins in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Swim with Dolphins in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

An experience and adventure like no other is swimming with the dolphins in Riviera Nayarit. How often do you get to interact with marine life for a day? You may be surprised to know that dolphins are very intelligent. Dolphins love to interact with people, and they instantly connect with people in a special way that other animals just don’t do. In the Caribbean and Mexico, you will find over a thousand different companies that allow you to swim with the dolphins. Why not make a day trip to swim with the dolphins from your home away from home at Villa La Estancia Residences?

Swim with Dolphins in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Swimming with Dolphins in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

There are a few things that you should consider when choosing a tour to swim with dolphins in Riviera Nayarit. You should avoid swimming with dolphins at any of the water parks where the dolphins are kept in swimming pools where the water contains chlorine. Chlorine in the water can make the dolphins go blind. This type of environment is not safe for the dolphins, so this type of company should be avoided. Look for a dolphin sanctuary where the dolphins are housed in a larger area too. There are also a number of ecological companies in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta that offer tours to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat.

What You Can Expect?

If you choose to go swimming with the dolphins in an enclosed area at a dolphin sanctuary in Riviera Nayarit, then you will be able to can touch, kiss, hug, and watch the dolphins do all sorts of tricks. The trainer will even teach you how to do some of the tricks with the dolphins, which include talking to them, feeding them, riding next to them etc. These kinds of tours are more suitable for children.

A tour company who have experience with wild dolphins can take you on a cruise where you will search for pods of dolphins swimming in the open sea. You may not get to kiss the dolphins, but you will get to swim with them in their natural habitat. Just imagine swimming with the dolphins in the open sea!

Helpful Tips for your Swim with the Dolphins in Riviera Nayarit

  • Avoid booking with a large group, as this often means you will have less time with the dolphins.
  • Always treat the dolphins with respect and friendliness; they are very sensitive animals and will respond to your attitude towards them.
  • Make sure you that you don’t wear sunscreen in the water (unless it is a special ecological sunscreen), because these creams can irritate the dolphin’s skin. It is better to cover your skin with a longsleeve swimsuit and cap.
  • Smile for the camera and save money to buy a souvenir photograph.

Swimming with the dolphins in Riviera Nayarit is a wonderful opportunity that doesn’t occur in your daily life. Don’t let this type of adventure pass you by.

Looking for high-end real estate in Bucerias, Mexico?

Are you looking for a luxurious stay in Mexico? Maybe you’re in need of a seasonal getaway, trading winter blues for tanned hues. Or maybe you’re looking to move to a more tropical location permanently? Either way, Mexico is your best bet, and Bucerias is quite possibly the best location for your high-end real estate needs. Why? Well let’s take a look at this checklist with the key points:

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Affordability – Check

High-end real estate in Bucerias, Mexico can be an extremely affordable option, while still being a very chic one. The high-end real estate deals you’ll find here – especially considering the beachfront locations and scenic views right from your bedroom window – are usually even better than what you’d find back home, whether that be in the United States, Canada, or even Europe. Such incredible value for money makes high-end real estate in Bucerias, Mexico an extremely popular choice for expats and travelers everywhere, and of all ages. There are even different real estate options to choose from, ranging from full to fractional, to help work around even the tightest of budgets.

Relaxed atmosphere – Yup, Bucerias has it!

Bucerias, Mexico is a very laid back little fishing town, with golden sands and friendly locals. Even the water is laid-back, with calmer waves and shallower waters. This chill vibe also doesn’t take away from the fact that Bucerias and the surrounding areas such as Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta and Punta Mita have lots of adventure to offer as well. You can find plenty to do, from diving to horseback riding, and the dining is superb.

Safety – Yes indeed!

Bucerias is one of the safest areas in all Mexico, with very fine high-end real estate options in gated communities, condos and resorts. You can feel secure moving your family here, or having friends come to visit.

Fun – You can bet your bottom dollar!

As aforementioned, despite Bucerias, Mexico being a very relaxed region, you can always find something fun and exciting to do! If sports are more your thing, try golfing or fishing. If you want to make a splash and have some wet and wild adventures, try diving or whale watching. And at the end of the day you can always kick back and relax at a restaurant, bar, or spa. If you want to head up the road for about 30 minutes or so, you can also find some very lively nightlife in Puerto Vallarta or Punta Mita.

Boat Excursions on Banderas Bay, Mexico

One of the great pastimes that homeowners at Villa La Estancia Residences can enjoy anytime of the year is exploring Banderas Bay on a boat tour. Boat excursions on Banderas Bay, Mexico are one of the best ways to get to know the beauty of Banderas Bay. There are many different boat cruises on offer for both day and night excursions on Banderas Bay, in addition to private yacht charters and fishing tours. With so many amazing boat tours, you could try something different each time your visit your home away from home.

Booking boat excursions on Banderas Bay, Mexico is easy, especially for Villa del Estancia residents who can use the services of the onsite tour agent. Alternatively you can make bookings via the internet. A lot of different activities await; dancing, singing, snorkeling, eating out and indulging in great music will make memories that last forever. Whether you are an adult, a child or a kid at heart, boat excursions on Banderas Bay will provide the time of your life.

sunset on banderas bay

Marigalante Pirate Ship Day and Night Tours

Have you ever dreamed of being a pirate sailing the vastness of the ocean with reckless authority? The Marigalante Pirate Ship can make that dream come true as you sail aboard an authentic wooden pirate ship with staff that dress and act like real pirates. On both the day and night tour of Banderas Bay, a pirate show will leave you in awe as acrobatic stunts, pirate music and other live performances literally fill the deck of your boat.

During the Pirates of the Bay night tour, the show is the center of attention with a delicious three course meal and as much to drink as you are partial to. You will enjoy an award winning pirate battle as though you had been transported back in time to the Golden Age of Pirates, followed by fireworks. The focus of the pirate ship day tour is more towards outdoor pirate fun, and your day will be full of merry things like dancing, exciting games, water sports and even treasure hunting on the beach. It’s an all ideal Banderas Bay cruise for an all out family affair that will leave you breathless.

Rhythms of the Night Boat Cruise

If you are looking for romantic boat excursions on Banderas Bay, Mexico to share with your nearest and dearest, the Rhythms of the Night cruise is highly recommended for you. It promises a night full of romance as you start off cruising the scenic coastline of Banderas Bay en route to the remote beach cove of Las Caletas. The slow beat of ancient Aztec drums can be heard as your boat arrives to the shore and you are escorted to an amphitheatre in the jungle where you will enjoy an artistic representation of Mexico’s pre-Hispanic history through dance and music. All of this followed by a candlelit dinner under the moon and the bright, sparkling stars for a night to remember affair.

Las Marietas

A day jampacked with a host of activities is what you can expect of Las Marietas boat excursions in Banderas Bay. From the shore, you will make your way by boat to the famous Las Marietas islands which boast a unique location formed out of volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. While cruising your way, music and dancing will create a festive air, with an open bar and a full lunch provided to satisfy your hunger. You may be lucky enough to see a wide variety of marine life like manta rays, humpback whales and dolphins from the side of your boat.

When you reach Las Marietas, you can jump in for some snorkeling and discover the underwater riches that these remote islands offer. You can also access a hidden beach by swimming through a cave to discover the hidden gem that makes Las Marietas so famous on Banderas Bay.

Las Animas Boat Cruise

If you love exploring underwater and admiring the beauty down below, Las Animas boat excursions on Banderas Bay will fit you to a tee. Two destinations are the order of the day and awaiting discovery. First is the Los Arcos Underwater National Park, where snorkeling is at its best. A professional guide will accompany you and provide snorkels, fins and life jackets for your safety. Prepare yourself for close encounters with underwater creatures and colorful fish and corals that dominate the sea landscape. The Las Animas beach comes next on the agenda, and this is where facilities for beach volleyball, kayaking and banana boating are available. If you don’t feel like taking part in the action, you can simply lie on the sandy beach and enjoy the wonderful scenery surrounding you. As you head back, the fun never ceases. You can party, dance and drink all the way back to port.

Princess Sunset Cruise

The two and a half hours you will spend on the Princess Sunset Cruise on Banderas Bay will leave you enchanted. This elegant cruise offers simple luxury like drinking at an open bar with great snacks for company as you take in the spectacular views of the bay. If you want to let your hair down, you can dance and party the night away in the lower decks where you will be joined by others who are in the mood for a fiesta.

For more information about boat excursions on Banderas Bay, Villa la Estancia Residents should contact the onsite tour agents.

mexican christmas party

Great Mexican Christmas Traditions

Christmas in Mexico is a great celebration characterized by rich cultural and religious traditions with touches of contemporary influences from the United States and Canada like Christmas trees and Santa Claus. Overall, a Mexican Christmas is less commercialized than other countries and full of fascinating customs that you can enjoy as both homeowners at Villa La Estancia Residences and visitors alike.

Great Mexican Christmas Traditions

If you decide to spend time in Mexico during the Christmas holidays, you’ll be amazed by the sights of large Christmas trees and sparkling lights adorning plazas, and the abundance of food and artisan stalls in public places. Likewise, you will see large nativity scenes and images of the Baby Jesus. On the beach next to Puerto Vallarta’s malecon boardwalk, sand artists usually exhibit great works of art in the run up to Christmas depicting various Christmas related scenes made from sand.

mexican christmas party

Noche Buena

Unlike the United States and Canada, a Mexican Christmas is traditionally celebrated on Christmas Eve on December 24th rather than December 25th. Mexican families gather together following the last mass of advent to feast on sumptuous delicacies such as cod, tamales, pozole and mole. The Mexican Christmas celebrations are likely to last into the wee hours of the morning. Gifts are given as a way to honor the spirit of giving and sharing, which is what Christmas is all about in Mexico.

The Day of the Three Kings/ Three Wise Men

Another Mexican Christmas tradition that differs from those of the United States and Canada is the Day of the Three Kings. El Dia de Reyes is celebrated yearly on January 6th commemorating the end of the long Christmas festivities. Just like the Three Kings in the Bible who gave the Baby Jesus gifts during their visit, Mexican children anticipate this day with the hope of receiving plenty of gifts as well. They’ll put their shoes on the doorstep of their homes thinking that when the kings pass by, they will leave gifts for them.

The Traditional Rosca de Reyes

The Day of the Three Kings is not just about children getting presents, this Mexican Christmas tradition has another charming feature: the Rosca de Reyes. The rosca is a garland-shaped sweet bread that is served on El Dia de Reyes which contains one or more ceramic Baby Jesus figure. Everyone at the gathering has to take a slice of the bread. If your slice contains the figure, you are blessed and will be expected to host the next party which is held on February 2nd for Candlemas, where tamales will be served.

Visitors to Mexico and Villa La Estancia Residences homeowners are invited to join in the Mexican Christmas traditions for a wonderfully rich festive experience.

Luxury Realty in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, that forms part of Banderas Bay on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, is ever becoming the top destination for luxury realty. Development in Mexico and the real estate market has seen a revival over the last couple of years following the recent recession, yet you can still find excellent prices for luxury realty in both Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta. While forecasts are promising for developers as house prices are set to rise in the coming years, buyers should make haste to purchase while the effects of the recession on prices can still be felt in Mexico.

two-br-nay

Your Chance for Luxury Realty in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Despite what you might think about Mexico, if there is one thing that the country does best is to create luxury homes at affordable prices. Luxury in Mexico costs less, without a doubt. Your dream home with all the services can be yours in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta without having to give up having a foot back home. Second home ownership is truly affordable in Mexico.

Luxury realty comes in all shapes and sizes in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta: from grand mansions on the water’s edge to lavish condos with pools and beach access to resort living like Villa La Estancia Residences, where you can enjoy all the facilities of a five star resort like pools, gourmet restaurants, a first class spa, gym, room service and so forth. The neighborhood you choose within Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta can also affect the price of your luxury realty investment, albeit not as drastically as it does in the United States and Canada.

Benefits of Living in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta

Besides the year-round sunshine and warm temperatures throughout winter, living in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta has its benefits. Firstly, the luxuries that make life more fulfilling are more affordable. You can see yourself getting a massage each week, beauty treatments that you maybe can’t afford back home, or surgeries that are considered a luxury but which make you’re life more comfortable.

The thriving expat community in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta is also an attraction for many people seeking luxury realty. You can join all kinds of groups such as painting classes, writers’ clubs, poetry festivals, yoga classes, fishing and yacht clubs to mention just a few. For those of you who like to support local charities, you can also meet other expats helping out as a host of different non-profit organizations including orphanages, cats and dogs groups, turtle sanctuaries and disability charities welcome the help of residents.

Your social life need not just be about helping the community, there are plenty of bars, fine restaurants (including gourmet wine and food festivals each year), dancing clubs (with lessons) and street parties to enjoy. And when there is nothing special to do, you will never tire of walking the malecon boardwalk to catch a subset with an ice-cream or frozen yogurt. Life really is good in Banderas Bay!

Luxury realty in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta is not just about elegant houses and property investment, it is about a way of life that you will want to share with your loved ones, and which will enrich your life no end.

Spend Christmas in Riviera Nayarit

Reasons to Spend Christmas in Riviera Nayarit

Spend Christmas in Riviera Nayarit

The Riviera Nayarit is one of those eternally popular vacation destinations that draws in thousands of tourists every day throughout the year; but did you know that it is also one of the best celebration destinations in the world for the Christmas season? The festive spirit is alive and well in Riviera Nayarit, and the elegant, elaborate celebrations, traditional festivities and utterly divine weather only make it better.

Reasons to Spend Christmas in Riviera Nayarit:

A Different Kind of Winter Blues

As the rest of the American continent slips into the chilly heart of winter, Riviera Nayarit, and many coastal cities in Mexico, maintains its blue, clear skies, sunny days and balmy temperatures which range from the low to mid 80s. Lounging at the poolside, soaking in the sun’s rays with a cocktail – did you ever imagine spending Christmas day this way? If so, it could become a reality very easily!

The Genuine Christmas Spirit

The idea of the Christmas season is for families and friends to come together in order to celebrate all the things they have to be thankful for, and in the Riviera Nayarit this sense of the Christmas spirit abounds. Families and friends from all over the world gather here to spend time together and cheerfully wish each other all the best for the coming year.

On the run up to Christmas in Riviera Nayarit, many locals will attend a variety of parties called Posadas in which they will share in the magic of the season with their loved ones. If you’re lucky you might also catch the festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe at the beginning of December where in masses of “Vallartenses” will parade through the centre of many towns in an elaborate display of religious devotion and Mexican culture. These parades create a truly magical spectacle for those tourists lucky enough to see them.

A Relaxing Way to Finish Your Christmas Shopping

Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta are home to wonderful shopping centres and promenades that make for wonderful Christmas shopping. Usually Christmas shopping is a nightmare; running from store to store in order to get all those last minute bits and bobs. In the Riviera Nayarit, however, there shops are diverse and unique in that they range from large stores to small, independent boutiques. This is one shopping experience that can be both relaxing and exciting!

You’ll Have a Whale of a Time

As far as unusual Christmas activities go there are few things that can top going whale watching on Christmas eve! Humpback Whales make the waters just off the coast of the Riviera Nayarit their home in December and, if you’re really lucky, you’ll see them breach, spyhop and tail slap their way through the waters. You might even catch a pod with some calves in tow- that is a truly moving sight that will stay with you forever! You can turn your Christmas vacation in the Riviera Nayarit into an adventure in the heart of nature- all you have to do is look around you.

Villa La Estancia Residences Nayarit - One Bedroom Suite

What is a property manager?

You might have heard of property managers before, but there’s a chance you might not know exactly what it is they do. A property manager has many different responsibilities, but at the most basic level they are a third party who handle the day to day responsibilities of your real estate investment when you are not able to do so yourself. A property manager manages many different types of properties from small apartments to large complexes or family homes, and their specific responsibilities will depend on the salary you are willing to pay and the contract that you agree together.

Here are some of the services that a property manager can provide you with:

Responsible for Rent

If you are planning to rent out your property on a short or long term basis, you may require the services of a property manager. Property managers can be responsible for the setting of the initial rent level, adjusting it where necessary and even for collecting it, should the need arise.

  • Setting Rent – A good property managers knows how to set the rent at the right level to attract tenants while still making you a little profit. They will have an understanding of how your property compares to others in the area.
  • Collecting Rent – Property managers can play the role of collector, too, by ensuring that your rent is collected on the correct date each month and by enforcing late fees strictly.
  • Adjusting Rent – Making sure your rent is competitive is one of the key roles of a property manager and, as such , they can increase it by a set amount each year (according to state / municipal laws) or decrease it when necessary.
  • Responsible for Tenants

    One of the main responsibilities of any property manager is to manage your tenants. This means finding tenants, dealing with any complaints and even initiating evictions if needed.

  • Finding Tenants – Property managers are responsible for marketing the property to fill vacancies as well as making sure the apartment is as attractive as possible to tenants. They’ll know how and where to advertise for the best results.
  • Screening Tenants – A good property manager will be able to sort through prospective tenants to ensure that you get one that is a good fit for your property. Experienced property managers will have seen hundreds of tenants in their career and, as such, will be able to weed out the bad ones quickly.
  • Handling Leases – They can set the length of the lease and make sure that it has all the necessary provisions needed to protect the owner. This can include determining the security deposit required from the tenant.
  • Handling Complaints/Emergencies – Property managers are paid to deal with any complaints, maintenance requests, and have the necessary contacts and acumen to handle emergencies.
  • Handling Move Outs – When a tenant moves out your property manager will be responsible for checking it over to make sure that it has not suffered any damage during the tenant’s stay. They can determine how much, if any, of the security deposit should be withheld or returned.
  • Dealing With Evictions – If a tenant breaches the agreement or does not pay rent your property manager will know the proper way in which to file and proceed with an eviction (if you deem it necessary).
  • Responsible for Maintenance and Repairs

    Property managers can also be responsible for the physical condition of your property by keeping up regular maintenance and ensuring repairs are complete quickly.

  • Maintenance – Maintenance aims to keep current tenants happy and attract new tenants. They can take charge of preventative maintenance in your property in order to make sure it is performing at the top of its game. If given the right authority they can hire someone to deal with leaks, deal with exterminations, do landscaping or regularly remove trash.
  • Repairs – When there’s an issue your property manager will either attend to it themselves or hire someone who can. A property manager worth their salt will have a network of plumbers, electricians and contractors that they trust.
  • Responsible for Supervising

  • Other Employees – The property manager can set their salaries and even fire them. If you have other employees, such as a concierge or security, then your property managers will be responsible for making sure they’re doing their jobs properly.
  • Vacant Properties – A property manager can also be hired to look after vacant properties to make sure that there has been no vandalism and perform basic maintenance to keep it ready for tenants.
  • Riviera Nayarit’s Pueblo Magico

    Mexico’s famed beach resort towns of Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas continuously attracts visitors from all over the world. Impressive beach settings and countless commercial establishments that offer fun and entertainment are their major selling points. What many don’t know, however, is that Mexico has other cultural attractions that will surely charm and enchant visitors as well as those lucky enough to make Mexico their second home – Pueblos Magicos.

    Riviera Nayarit - Pueblo Magico

    Pueblos Mágicos

    Pueblos Magicos (magical towns) are classified quaint villages that offer a glimpse of the country’s rich culture and tradition. The Mexican Secretary of Tourism has endorsed around 80 towns throughout Mexico with the “Pueblo Magico” seal of approval to guide visitors to find new and exciting ways of discovering Mexico and its great people.

    Pueblos magicos are selected towns that are rich history and cultural heritage. It’s a program that was started in 2001 and acknowledges places like San Sebastian del Oeste, a quaint town located just over an hour from Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta A 1605 mining town, San Sebastian showcases the Mexican way of life and the traditional means of its people. Every visitor’s heart and emotions will be touched and mesmerized, and it’s within easy reach of your home away from home at Villa La Estancia Residences.

    A perfect day trip from Villa La Estancia, San Sebastian del Oeste pueblo magico offers a variety of activities. Its beautiful landscape that is surrounded entirely by the picturesque Sierra Madre Mountains is a scene changer for anyone whose busy life centers around the city. One can simply walk around and view old buildings which are great examples of traditional colonial architecture or sit in the town’s tree lined plaza people watching.

    If you are feeling a little more energetic, you can take a hike to the nearby Cerro de la Bufa and be with the company of clouds while the dusk provide a stunning sunset drama unfolding right before your eyes. For coffee lovers, visit Quinta Mary and have a taste of a purely organic coffee and a chance to see the meticulous production process it undergoes. Experience a different kind of experience where the contemporary blends with the traditional, taking visitors back in time a hundred years or more.

    Today, San Sebastian is a home to just 600 inhabitants, a far cry from what used to be 20,000 population sustained through a thriving mining industry. Nowadays you can simply sit back and sit idly in a wooden chair admiring the overall appeal of this stunning town. The next time you visit Riviera Nayarit, take the time to explore San Sebastian and you’ll never forget the magical experience it will bring.