Living in Riviera Nayarit

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retirement move to mexico
FAQ, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Real Estate, Residences

Move to Mexico? Top 5 Reasons

Are you an expat who wants to move to Mexico? Mexico is a wonderful place to retire. The cost of luxury homes at the beach is still affordable when compared with similar properties in other countries. If you want a dream home in paradise, consider Villa La Estancia. With properties in Cabo San Lucas and Riviera Nayarit, Villa La Estancia is a top choice for expats who want to live their best life in Mexico. Are you an expat ready for retirement and hoping to move to Mexico? If you are, keep reading below to learn the top 5 reasons to move to Mexico.

Reasons to Move to Mexico

For starters, Mexico has a very laid-back culture and Mexicans are genuinely friendly. If you’re looking to simplify your life and add positive vibes, Mexico could be perfect for you. In addition, many expats are able to upgrade their lifestyle with healthy changes when they move to Mexico. For example, many people eat healthier, socialize more, and be more active when they move to Mexico. Also, the cost of living is more affordable in Mexico when compared to other countries in North America. For example, many expats report they can live a comfortable life on just $1,000 dollars a month. The average cost of living varies between $600 to $2,000 depending on one’s lifestyle choices and location. In addition, U.S. citizens can still receive their Social Security payments while living in Mexico and have them deposited into a Mexican bank account.

  • Move to Mexico Reason #1: Improved Quality of Life 

To start with, a top reason why expats move to Mexico is to enjoy a higher quality of life. For example, the cost of living is significantly lower in Mexico than in other countries. The cost of lodging, food and utilities is on the rise, and many incomes are falling when compared to inflation. As a result, retirement can be difficult for individuals trying to make ends meet on a fixed income. To solve this solution, a move to Mexico allows expats to enjoy a higher quality of life while spending less money. Food costs in Mexico are typically much lower than in other countries. In addition, there is fresh and organic food available that is still affordable, too. Although organic foods are available in industrialized countries, they are much more expensive which quickly adds up.

  • Move to Mexico Reason #2: Amazing Culture and Family Friendly Vibe

Another of the top reasons for expats that move to Mexico is the allure of the amazing culture and family friendly vibe. Locals in Mexico are very welcoming and open hearted to expats. As a result, many expats appreciate the sense of warmth and kindness they receive when visiting or living in Mexico. Mexico has a long history and rich heritage that can’t be beat by other countries. Also, Mexico has an endless amount of interesting cultural events to attend throughout the year that the whole family can enjoy. From the Day of the Dead, to Independence Day festivities in September, there is always something fun going on in Mexico.

  • Move to Mexico Reason #3: Real Estate You Can Afford

Thirdly, many expats decide to move to Mexico because they can afford luxury real estate at the beach. For example, Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit allows expat homeowners to truly have it all in a dream home at the beach. Villa La Estancia private beachfront residences are solidly constructed with the best finishes. In addition, Villa La Estancia is part of an exclusive and tranquil community known as Nuevo Vallarta. Also, Villa La Estancia is a hotel-condo concept property so homeowners have access to world class amenities and services. Shouldn’t every day at your second home in Mexico feel like vacation? Lastly, homeowners in Mexico enjoy low property taxes and affordable maintenance costs for their home. Many expats agree that buying a second home in Mexico is the ultimate dream come true after years of hard work in their home country. Are you an expat ready to live the good life and want a retirement home in Mexico? If so, Villa la Estancia is the dream home in Mexico you have been searching for.

  • Move to Mexico Reason #4: Excellent Year Round Climate 

The 4th reason why expats move to Mexico is because of the excellent year round climate. In Riviera Nayarit, temperatures are warm and sunny all year long. As a result, the great climate allows for an endless amount of outdoor activities. Expats that move to Mexico can surf, kayak, snorkel, scuba dive, mountain bike, and kitesurf. Mexico’s wonderful weather allows people to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities. At Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit, beachfront residences for sale are located on a pristine beach in a quiet neighborhood. Villa la Estancia expat homeowners love waking up in the morning and hitting the beach for a quick dip in the ocean. Also, Villa La Estancia also has multiple pools, restaurants and a spa right on the property. What more could you ask for in a dream home in Mexico?

  • Move to Mexico Reason #5: Reasonably Priced Healthcare

Lastly, high quality healthcare is reasonably priced in Mexico. Regular checkups, prescriptions and serious surgeries are still affordable. In Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, there are incredible doctors and hospitals. Also, doctor visits can be paid for out of pocket and only cost between $30 to $50 USD. Likewise, there are affordable health insurance plans available for expats. Since the cost of healthcare and insurance in the States is reaching astronomical proportions, affordable healthcare is a big draw for expats that want to move to Mexico. In addition, expats can also sign up for IMSS which is the government run healthcare system. Since the US medical care system is expensive and complicated, many people look abroad for treatments and healthcare services. Mexico’s geographically close location and affordability makes it an ideal choice for expats on a budget.

Best Places to Live in Mexico

Aerial view of the Puerto Vallarta pier

Over the last decade, real estate prices in Mexico have been rising steadily. A variety of factors have influenced the upswing including the country’s stable macro-economics and the fact that more and more foreign residents are moving to the country. Expats are able to buy property for retirement that is still more affordable than similar properties in their home countries. In addition, residential mortgages are now being offered by Mexican banks making home ownership a possibility when in the past homes were usually bought with cash alone. However, luxury beachfront real estate is still much more affordable than homes in the States or Canada. If you want to live a dream beach lifestyle, the ability to buy an amazing home is another great reason to move to Mexico. Top destinations for expats to live include Merida, Cabo San Lucas, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel de Allende, and Sayulita.

You can see that there are many reasons why a move to Mexico is a smart choice for expats who want a better quality of life. If you want to buy a dream home in Mexico, remember Villa La Estancia has locations in both Riviera Nayarit and Cabo San Lucas. Likewise, Villa La Estancia offers expats a chance to own premium Mexican real estate at the beach. Do you want to live like you are on vacation every day? If you do, visit us at our Villa La Estancia website today to see which luxury beachfront residences are available for sale before it’s too late. Hope to see you on the beach soon!

 

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by VLEAdminRE,
Riviera Nayarit

Things to Do in Riviera Nayarit: Chalk Art Walk 2020

In Mexico, Banderas Bay is home to many different cultural events. The Bucerias Street Festival & Chalk Art Walk 2020 is held in February in Bucerias, a charming and quaint coastal town in Riviera Nayarit. Bucerias is located approximately twenty minutes from Puerto Vallarta. Bucerias  has many interesting art galleries, great restaurants, and breathtaking beaches. From February 4th – February 6th, the annual Chalk Art street festival will occur. The festival starts at 2:00pm. If you will be visiting Riviera Nayarit during the first part of February or live in the area, then you won’t want to miss the street festival. Read below to learn more about this year’s Chalk Art Walk and Bucerias Street Festival.

Chalk Art Walk 2020

This year’s Chalk Art Walk 2020 will feature more than twenty-five creative and inspiring artists. This year’s theme at the Chalk Art Walk 2020 is “One Love – Celebrating Unity Throughout the World”. Therefore, every artist will use chalk to create a harmonious image that depicts an animal, a human, and a plant. Everyone that attends the Chalk Art Walk 2020 will enjoy live entertainment, delicious foods, and different booths and vendors that will participate in the festival. Also, the event proceeds will go towards DIF of Nayarit, which is an organization that the government runs for seniors, disabled people, and orphan services. Proceeds will also go towards helping A Dog’s New Life Rescue Shelter, which is a shelter for animal rescues. 

Local Artists Supported

Bucerias is a great place to live or visit for a vacation to Mexico. They have regularly scheduled cultural events in Riviera Nayarit, so something fun is always going on. Would you like to join in creating art? Are you artistic? If so, you can join in the Chalk Art 2020 festival. In addition, you can also become one of the sponsors for this event. If you’d like to help support the local community by becoming a sponsor, just send an email to thebuceriasstreetfestival@gmail.com. You can also send a Facebook message to Bucerias Chalk Art 2020. Likewise, you can purchase a gift certificate for the Bucerias Street Festival & Chalk Art 2020. Personal gift certificates along with sponsor packets will be for sale at 62 Lazaro Cardenas on December 19th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Your gift will provide traveling costs for a Chalk Artist, and the special person you gifted this to will have their name displayed next to the chalk artwork. Photos and sponsor names will also be posted on Facebook, too. Remember, proceeds from the Chalk Art Walk 2020 will support A Dog’s New Life Rescue Shelter and Nayarit DIF. 

You will want to make sure you go to the Bucerias Street Festival & Chalk Art Walk 2020. The event will take place from February 4th to February 6th starting daily at 2:00pm. Residents and visitors will appreciate that there are many exciting things to do in Riviera Nayarit. Chalk Art Walk 2020 is an event you won’t want to miss. Do you live at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit? If so, you and your family should attend this amazing community event. 

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, FAQ, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Real Estate

Tips for Expats in Mexico

Are you an expat that is planning on moving to Mexico? If you are, then you undoubtedly be fascinated by the rich history, welcoming locals, and amazing weather, but there is more to Mexico than just fine cuisine and breathtaking beaches. If you want to live the best life that you can in paradise, then you will need to adapt with your local community as well. Will you be moving to Mexico or hope to soon? If so, then read our tips for expats in Mexico below, so you can live the best life in your new country and home.

Tips for Expats in Mexico: Keep Your Expectations in Check

Many expats may encounter unknown obstacles when moving to Mexico, or any new country. You should keep your expectations in check so you can adapt to your new home with ease. You need to stay open minded about how other people live in Mexico, especially when it differs from what you are used to. For example, it’s very common for individuals to seemingly invade other people’s personal space, but this is culturally accepted and not considered rude. Don’t become offended if this happens to you, you simply need to understand and accept this as this is the new place you are calling home now. A stranger may appear to invade your personal space as people stand closer to one another, and this may not be comfortable to you. However, as an expat moving to Mexico, you need to try to understand they are not being rude to you. This is the normal way of life for many people in Mexico. Also, be prepared to give hugs and cheek kisses to people that you meet, as this is how people in Mexico greet one another whether you are old friends or meeting for the first time.

Tips for Expats in Mexico: Learn to Be Patient

You need to learn to be patient and nice to people around you if you want to live your best life when moving to Mexico. It is not polite for an expat to be loud and rude in public when voicing their personal opinions with Mexican natives. Nearly all Mexicans are very nice and welcoming to foreigners, so you should return the favor. When you are out and about, you should always greet people and show a kind spirit. If you want to integrate yourself well into your new community, then you need to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. You should try to learn to speak Spanish, even though some expats live a great life in Mexico without ever learning the language. However, if you do learn at least some basic Spanish you will have a much more fulfilling experience. Your new life in Mexico will be enriched if you learn to speak Spanish, and there are classes available that are very affordable, too. One important word that you should learn is “Usted”, which is how you formally address someone you meet for the first time, or anyone who is older than you.

Tips for Expats in Mexico: Keep Cash and Coins With You For Tips

Many of the locals in Mexico earn their living by selling their handmade items at the beach, selling fresh fruits and vegetables, and washing windshields of cars. Expats should always be grateful for what they have, and sharing with others really goes a long way. If you can afford it, then you should keep cash and coins with you for tips. For example, the people that bag groceries at grocery stores don’t receive a regular paycheck as their tips is their paycheck. Therefore, you should tip them when you buy groceries, then if someone helps you put the groceries in your car or even takes your shopping cart back for you, you should tip them as well.

Tips for Expats: Try To Avoid Speaking Loudly

Living in Mexico for almost ten years and being an American expat, it can be very annoying when you hear other Americans speaking English excessively loud. You have to remember that you are actually a guest living in Mexico, and you need to show respect for others. Just tone the volume down. Also, you should never make fun of others who aren’t able to speak English regardless of where you are in the world. You should appreciate life when moving to Mexico, and you should try to learn Spanish, too.

Tips for Expats: Public Restroom Preparation

You may be shocked to know that some public restrooms at restaurants or bars don’t always have toilet paper and soap available. To resolve this small issue, you should carry soap or hand sanitizer and toilet paper with you. If you do, and you need to use the restroom, then you will have no problems. Also, most of the businesses and homes in Mexico don’t have A/C, so the temperature inside will be just as they are outside. Just dress accordingly to the weather.

Just go with the flow when moving to Mexico. You have just read the top tips for expats in Mexico. Try using these tips, and your new life in Mexico is sure to be interesting, fulfilling and as wonderful as you hoped it would be.

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by VLEAdminRE,
Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Best Destination in 2019: Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

Apple Vacations has awarded Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit the prestigious award “Best Destination of 2019” at its annual Crystal Apple Awards event. Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta were jointly recognized as being the best beach destination that won out over impressive competition from Turks and Caicos, Los Cabos, Bahamas, Huatulco, Curacao, Aruba, Ixtapa, Cancun, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and the Riviera Maya. In the market for premiere Nuevo Vallarta real estate in award-winning Riviera Nayarit? If so, Villa La Estancia residences are the top choice for savvy homebuyers in the know. Continue to read below to learn about the Apple Destinations Award for Best Destination in 2019 that PV and Riviera Nayarit won, and why Villa La Estancia is proud to offer premiere beachfront real estate in the area.

Best Destination in 2019: PV and Riviera Nayarit

A holiday satisfaction survey was produced by the US agency, and thousands of Apple Vacations customers voted when they had returned from their vacation. The results stated that Puerto Vallarta and neighboring Riviera Nayarit is the best destination in 2019 to visit. Javier Aranda Pedero, the Puerto Vallarta General Director, was present during the ceremony and he was very honored that Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit were both recognized as the best destination in 2019. He was pleased that Puerto Vallarta was actually the preferred destination over very popular tourist spots that include Dominican, Jamaica, Los Cabos, Riviera Maya, and Cancun. Pedrero said, “The Puerto Vallarta tourism trust team has numerous activities and we are currently seeking to talk to our consumers, business partners, and the press. Also, we proudly receive this honorable recognition as a reflection of our hard work.” The residents, government, and local businesses of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit will work very hard to maintain our present status of being the best destination in 2019.

Apple Vacations – America’s Favorite Vacation Company

For over 45 years, Apple Vacations has been the favorite vacation company for Americans. Apple Vacations has been providing affordable travel packages for amazing vacations, and deals include flights that depart from the top cities in the USA arriving into Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, Cuba, and Hawaii. Apple Vacations also provides vacation packages to North and South America at the top ski resorts. Apple Vacations has been sending more vacationers to the Dominican Republic and to Mexico than any other vacation operator in the world.

Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit – Tourism is Increasing

In recent years, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayrit have been top tourist destinations and the tourism growth is continuing to increase. During the first six months of 2019, more than 400,000 visitors by air came to Puerto Vallarta, which was an 11% increase from 2018. There are numerous restaurants, great shopping, spectacular beaches, and unlimited outdoor activities that always bring national and international visitors to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.

Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit – Congratulations! Puerto Vallarta isn’t just the best destination in 2019, but it is also the best place for a vacation home. Have you been thinking about buying Mexican real estate on the Pacific coast of Mexico? If you are, then you should consider Villa La Estancia residences, which offer exclusive beachfront living for luxury homeowners who want a second home in paradise. Situated in the exclusive Nuevo Vallarta neighborhood, Villa La Estancia residences are situated on one of the best beaches in Banderas Bay. Contact us at Villa La Estancia today and ask to tour our incredible property. Don’t wait too long, because your dream vacation home in Mexico could be gone before you know it.

 

by VLEAdminRE,
FAQ, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Real Estate, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Visit Pueblo Magico Sayulita

Are you living in Puerto Vallarta or hope to one day? There is so much to do in PV with its miles of gorgeous beaches, hip gastronomy culture and welcoming locals. It is easy to see why Puerto Vallarta is a top vacation destination and has a large expat community as well. Next time your find yourself in Puerto Vallarta on vacation, or if you live in Riviera Nayarit at Villa La Estancia, we recommend you take a day trip to Sayulita, a “Pueblo Magico” town just 45 minutes north of town. In 2015, this charming and quaint town was designated as a Pueblo Magico due to the town’s rich history and charm that enchants visitors. A day trip from PV to Sayulita will surely be a great way to enjoy the best of Mexico. Keep reading below to find out more about Sayulita, a Pueblo Magico that you have to see for yourself.

Sayulita is a Pueblo Magico

Sayulita is situated on the Pacific Coast of Mexico about 45 minutes of Puerto Vallarta, and only about a half hour north of Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit. Sayulita is popular with surfers and vacationers who are mesmerized by the town’s relaxed vibe and tons of great shops, restaurants and bars. Sayulita was designated as a Pueblo Magico (which means “Magic Town” in English) back in September 2015. The Mexico Tourism Board decides which towns are worth of this special designation. In order to be declared a Pueblo Magico, they must meet three requirements. To begin with, the architecture should be very pleasing. The balconies, facades, and roofs should all be painted the same color tone chosen from a list of seven approved colors that the National Institute of Anthropology and History selected. Secondly, the town, city, or village should have their own unique cultural identity that shows the traditional history. Last, there should be a village square or one major attraction that stands out above against other towns, cities, and villages.

Popular Beaches in Sayulita

There are a couple popular beaches in Sayulita where visitors will enjoy walking along the beach. Surfers especially love surfing at the beaches in Sayulita which are known for nice swells due to its open ocean location. If you want to go surfing, you can even rent a surfboard for the day right on the beach. If you aren’t a surer, you can try paddle boarding and paddle boards are available for rent on the beach as well. The Sayulita Beach does receive a high volume of visitors, so if you love people watching, you will have a great time. If you prefer a less crowded beach, then you should walk to the Los Muertos Beach. In order to reach Los Muertos Beach, you will need to walk past the yellow Villa Amor hotel, then you will walk up the hill past the graveyard until you reach the tranquil beach. Los Muerto Beach is ideal for swimming, and plan ahead to bring snacks, drinks, and a shade umbrella since there are no stores or restaurants.

Colorful Central Plaza

When you arrive in Sayulita, head to the central plaza that has been vibrantly decorated in colorful huichol art hanging high above the plaza. There is a lovely gazebo in the middle of the plaza that is a great spot for picture taking. Love art? Sayulita has tons of fine art galleries located in and around the plaza. Why not check out locally made Huichol handcrafts or maybe you can find the perfect piece of art for your home. Getting hungry? Sayulita has tons of great restaurants that range from fine dining to casual. If you are in the mood for sushi, pizza, tacos, or a five-course gourmet meal, you will have no trouble satisfying your taste buds. If you have room, try some homemade ice cream for dessert, too.

Residents at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit should take time to day trip to Sayulita, a Pueblo Magico town that has charm to spare. A day trip to Sayulita is a great reminder why the beachfront residences at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit make a dream vacation home or second home in paradise.

by VLEAdminRE,
Riviera Nayarit

Summer in Riviera Nayarit

It’s summer in Riviera Nayarit, which means the heat is on! While high season in Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit is during the winter months, summer also brings plenty of visitors into the area to enjoy the natural beauty even if it’s a little steamy. Thousands of visitors come to Riviera Nayarit all year long, but if you visit during the summer, you may need some tips on how to handle the heat and humidity that can be quite intense at times. Are you visiting Riviera Nayarit soon for your vacation, or do you already own a second home at Villa La Estancia in Nuevo Vallarta? If you do, then continue to read below for our tips on how to enjoy summer in Riviera Nayarit.

Swimming in the Ocean

When the heat is on in Riviera Nayarit, one of the best ways to stay cool is to go swimming in the ocean. Riviera Nayarit is known for having some of the best beaches in Banderas Bay, and tourists and residents love to enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean. The beaches in Nuevo Vallarta have wide, sandy shores and there isn’t a ton of shells or rocks like there is in other beaches near Puerto Vallarta. You can also find many restaurants on the beach in Nuevo Vallarta or Bucerias. In the mood for lunch al fresco, or want to sip a refreshing margarita as you take in the incredible ocean views? The options are endless as there are many restaurants to choose from in Riviera Nayarit that are great places to enjoy a nice meal during the day or evening. Bucerias is a quaint town on the beach just north of PV where you can even go horseback riding on the beach for a small fee. Jump in the ocean after your horseback ride to cool off and enjoy summer in Riviera Nayarit that much more.

Enjoy a Morning Hike 

Banderas Bay has some of the best hiking, rivers, and waterfalls in all of Mexico. While the entire region becomes quite dry during the winter months, the summer’s rainy season replenishes the area’s rivers and watering holes. A great way to enjoy summer in Riviera Nayarit is to take an early morning hike before the temperatures rise too high. One of the best hikes in the area is Monkey Mountain, which is found on the way to Higuera Blanca in between Punta Mita and Sayulita. Monkey Mountain is a great hike that the whole family can enjoy. Head out as early as you can as some parts of the hike do not have shade. It will all be worth it though once you read the top of Monkey Mountain and can enjoy impressive panoramic views of Banderas Bay. If you don’t mind heading down into Puerto Vallarta, there is another lovely hike near Palo Maria, which is about 10 minutes south of downtown PV. There you will find a beautiful flowing river during the summer months, and watering holes that are ideal for a refreshing dip. Plan ahead and bring a picnic to enjoy under the huge trees that shade the area. If you don’t mind a bit more of a workout, try to hike inland and you will reach a remarkable waterfall. It is a great spot to swim, dive, and float as you cool down in the refreshing waters.

Chill Out at the VIP Cinema

Another great way to stay cool during the summer in Riviera Nayarit is to enjoy a movie at the new VIP Cinema near Fluvial. Located inside the La Isla Shopping center in the hotel zone, the VIP Cinema features a full menu, drinks, and desserts so that you can enjoy the full VIP experience while you watch the latest blockbuster. Take a seat in the comfy leather recliners, and get comfortable. Peruse the extensive menu and when you are ready to order, simply push the button located at your seat and a waiter will come to take your order. Cash and cards are accepted. After you enjoy your movie, why not take the time to check out some of the amazing shops at La Isla. There are popular brand name and local stores that tourists and residents alike love to visit to find their next favorite outfit. Make sure you check out the turtle sanctuary and koi fish pond on your way out.

During summer in Riviera Nayarit, there are plenty of ways to stay cool so you can enjoy the area all year long. Do you live in Riviera Nayarit or have a second home at Villa La Estancia? If so, swimming in one of the amazing onsite pools on the property, or simply relaxing in the comfort of your air-conditioned private residence are two other great ways to enjoy summer in Riviera Nayarit.

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit Residents: Get to Know PV Street Art

Do you live in Riviera Nayarit and love the peace and quiet that homeowners in the area so enjoy? Riviera Nayarit has miles of beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, and endless outdoor activities to enjoy making it a wonderful place to call home. Are you a proud Villa La Estancia homeowner in Nuevo Vallarta? Such a tranquil and peaceful setting may make it hard for you to even want to leave your beautiful home at homes. However, when you are in the mood to liven up your day, head down to Puerto Vallarta to add some excitement to your life. Coming up soon on March 2nd there is an interesting PV Street Art Stroll you don’t want to miss

  • Puerto Vallarta And Riviera Nayarit: Best of Both Worlds

Nuevo Vallarta residents who live at Villa La Estancia really do have the best of both worlds. They have an incredible high quality home with the best amenities and services around. Surrounded by lush landscaping and endless Banderas Bay views, life at Villa La Estancia is pretty ideal. One great thing about living in Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit is that you can easily head to Puerto Vallarta for the day if you are in the mood for some added excitement. Are you an art lover and always interested in seeing what is new and fresh? If you, you probably already know that Puerto Vallarta has a thriving and interesting art scene that is seeing major growth in recent years. There are lots of upscale art galleries in the downtown art district that are worth a visit. However, did you know that Puerto Vallarta also has beautiful urban graffiti street art that you should definitely check out? Street art is a modern take on what some people view as art. Have you not seen any of the cool street area around town? If not, sign up today for the PV Street Art Stroll that will happen on March 2nd. The event was organized by local art lovers in order to showcase the beautiful murals and street art in the area.

  • Hidden Street Works of Art

Puerto Vallarta is best known as a charming small town that has grown into a modern mix of old and new that is easy to fall in love with. Anyone who walks along the quaint cobblestone streets will start to feel the undeniable magic of Puerto Vallarta. While there are modern developments under construction on many street corners, Old Town is still able to maintain that friendly, small town vibe that we all know and love. With tons of great shops, bars and restaurants in the area, incredible street art is also found in PV and you may not have even known it was there. Have you seen any of the street art for yourself? If not, leave Villa La Estancia for the day and join the PV Street Art Stroll on March 2nd so you too can see the coolest, most colorful street art in the region. Remember, street art is constantly changing so that impressive mural you see today may be gone tomorrow don’t miss out!

  • Massive Murals and Colorful Graffiti

Local residents decided to organize the PV Street Art Stroll to share the incredible street art with visitors and other PV residents. They were able to identify the most efficient and best route to find great street area in the downtown and Old Town areas. On March 2nd at 10 am, attendees will meet up at the main church right off the central plaza, called the Lady of Guadalupe Church. From there, the PV Street Art Stroll will begin its path to view impressive murals around town. The walk will probably last about 2 hours, so make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring along a hat and water, too. Definitely don’t forget your camera so you can take some memorable shots of your favorite street art masterpieces. PV Street art could be here one day, and then gone the next so take it all in as you are literally capturing a moment in time. What a beautiful gift!

Are you ready to leave your oasis at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit for the day, and head PV for the PV Street Art Stroll? The group is limited to only 18 people so visit www.pvstreetart.com right away to secure your spot. Hope to see you there!

Recommended article for you: Invest in Peace, Rest and Real Estate in Banderas Bay

by VLEAdminRE,
Riviera Nayarit

Evening Stroll Through Bucerias Art Walk

Evening Stroll Through Bucerias Art Walk

The quaint beachside town of Bucerias just north of Villa La Estancia in Nuevo Vallarta is home to a fabulous art walk every Thursday evening during high season between the hours of 7pm to 9pm. The Bucerias Art Walk is a wonderful way to spend an evening strolling the quaint streets of Bucerias while enjoying incredible art, delightful sea breezes, and much more. Continue reading below to see why Villa La Estancia homeowners should spend their next Thursday strolling the streets during Bucerias Art Walk.

Art, Crafts, Jewellery and More

Bucerias is a wonderful small town that is especially popular with expats who have decided to make their home in the area. For Villa La Estancia homeowners, Bucerias is just a short 10 minute drive away from home. The Bucerias Art walk will include plenty of quality art, crafts, jewellery and handcrafted furniture. There are 14 art galleries that are in close proximity to one another which makes it ideal for an evening stroll with family or friends. Be ready to enjoy a wide array of Mexican arts and crafts including textiles, paintings, glassware, furniture, jewellery, portrait, mosaics and so much more. Curious which galleries you shouldn’t miss? Top art galleries to visit include Milagros, Splash of Glass, Casabor – Galeria Mexicana, Jan Marie Boutique, Sandrina’s and the Casa del Artesano. A bit off the beaten path, make sure to head south to explore the recently opened Hacienda de Arte. A beautiful open air hacienda with contemporary and abstract pieces from local artists, Hacienda de Arte also regularly hosts interesting workshops, yoga classes, kids kung fu classes, painting classes and so much more. Top tip: A local astrology expert at Hacienda del Arte that has earned rave reviews will offer personalized tarot card readings for just 180 pesos. Do you dare to see what’s in the cards for you?

Lively Ambiance and Street Music

In addition to the incredible art galleries, the evening ambiance at Bucerias Art Walk is vibrant and lively with a great mix of locals and visitors. Want to enjoy dinner as well? There are a ton of great dining options in the area if you would like to enjoy dinner or drinks as well. La Postal, Mark’s, La Negra and Sandrina’s are a few good spots to try. Or skip dinner and take more time to enjoy the beautiful art as many art galleries offer complimentary wine and appetizers. Sip a glass of wine and nibble away as you peruse the latest and greatest art for sale. Live music in the street will delight you as local musicians will be in attendance throughout the evening. Have a special request? They will perform on the spot for you for a small fee. Bucerias Art walk is the place to be on Thursday evenings in Bucerias. Tourists, locals and artists all come together to enjoy the exciting ambiance and the pleasant ocean breezes.

Do you live in Villa La Estancia in Nuevo Vallarta? You are in luck! Make sure to visit Bucerias Art Walk on Thursday evening from 7pm to 9pm. Stroll the charming streets of this quaint beachside town as you enjoy a fun filled evening of art, culture and music.

Recommended for you: Why Live in Nuevo Vallarta?

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, FAQ, Real Estate

Tipping in Mexico

In Mexico, it is customary to tip, but if you don’t leave a tip you don’t have to worry, because you won’t get any slack, though you might feel a little miserly, especially when you take into consideration that wages in Mexico are pretty low. You must remember that most Mexicans working in the service industry don’t receive a great salary and they do indeed rely on tips that they get. Read on to find out more about tipping in Mexico.

Show your appreciation by tipping in Mexico

When you are in Mexico you can tip with dollar bills or pesos. Avoid leaving dollar coins as the person will not be able to exchange them for pesos or spend them. Tipping in pesos is easier and more practical for the service provider, but he or she will be perfectly happy to receive dollar bills. When you are deciding how to tip, you should base your tip around the service that you have received. In tourist areas in Mexico tipping is around 15% but can be anywhere between 10% and 20% depending on the service.

Restaurants

In Mexico, when dining at any of the restaurants should leave a tip from 10% to 20% of the total bill. If you are with a large group, sometimes the tip is automatically added to the bill, so be sure to check.

Hotels

If the bellhop takes you to your room and helps you with your luggage, then you should tip the bellhop 2-3 dollars or 20-50 pesos. You should also tip the housekeeping staff 2-3 dollars or 20-50 pesos depending on the type of hotel and the service that you have received. It is advisable to tip your housekeeper each day and not on the last day because the housekeeper could change and they will be encouraged by your tip to offer a good service while you are there.

Tipping for Tours

If you go on a tour and you are really impressed with the tour guide, then you should tip the guide 10%-20%. If you have went on a group tour, then the tour guide leader should be tipped between 3 to 5 dollars, while a private tour guide should be tipped at least ten dollars. The bus driver that takes you around on a tour should be tipped two dollars each day. In Mexico, it is not customary to tip taxi drivers unless the taxi drivers has helped you with your bags, then you might consider giving the taxi driver ten pesos for each bag they assist you with.

Grocery Packers

Usually teenagers and seniors bag your groceries at the stores in Mexico and you can tip them one or two pesos for each grocery bag that they have bagged for you. The grocery packers don’t earn a wage and the only pay they receive comes from the tips you give them.

Gas Stations

All of the gas stations in Mexico are full service gas stations. You should always tip the gas station attendant at least 5-10 pesos; and if they check your oil, check your tires, and clean your windshield, then you should tip them more.

Please note that this article is for guidance only and you should feel free to tip as little or as much as you feel appropriate (or indeed leave no tip at all!)

Read more: 10 Reasons to make Mexico your Home

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, FAQ, Real Estate

Tips for a Successful New Life in Mexico

So – you’re moving to Mexico! Congratulations! This is a radical change to your way of life, and we know that it is going to be a little daunting for you at first. This is why we’ve compiled our top hints and tips for succeeding in your new life in Mexico.

Here are our top tips for a successful new life in Mexico

Learn Spanish

Most people in the big cities and tourist hotspots of Mexico speak very good English, and so learning Spanish is not a necessity but there is no doubt in our minds that learning Spanish will help you have a successful new life in Mexico. There are plenty of classes that you can attend if you want to get a basic understanding of the language; when you use it to get to know your neighbors better you’ll find that your grasp of the language increases rapidly.

Be flexible

Flexibility is without a doubt one of the most valuable attributes you can have when you’re making such big changes to your life; a good, solid plan will make the changes easier to deal with, but you should always leave room in your plan for change! Remember that a plan is always a work in progress, and so changing it is never a failure. Be ready and willing to adapt to your situation and you will go far in your new home.

One day, task and goal at a time

It can take a long time to get used to the ways of a new country, and so you should remember to be patient and keep your mind open for a successful new life in Mexico; don’t compare your new home to your old one as this is a sure road to frustration and disappointment. You will also find that a soft approach will get you much further as a foreigner with the locals than if you get frustrated and irate.

Invest in networking

Take the time to network when you arrive; making friends and acquaintances in your new home is key to success. Meet the neighbors, join a gym, say hello to your work mates. You could even join a few of the Facebook groups set up purely for expats in the area. This will help you to establish a friend base and settle into your new home and new life in Mexico.

Savings

It pays to have some money squirrelled to the side to tide you over if you have to make last minute visits back home or need to attend to an emergency when you make a new life in Mexico. Also, you will probably spend more on socialization when you first arrive as you try to get yourself settled, and there’s always the chance you may need repairs to your car or certain aspects of your home; it can take a few tries to get a mechanic, plumber, or electrician you trust. You may not need this cushion, but it will certainly help to know that you have a safety net if you should need it. This peace of mind is truly priceless.

So – have you moved to Mexico recently? Do you have any tips for people looking to make this move? What would your advice be? Let us know in the comments section below!

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by VLEAdminRE,