Mexico Ranks No 8 For International Tourism

Based on 2016 statistics, the United Nations World Tourism Organization ranks Mexico as the 8th most popular destination globally for international tourism. The world tourism rankings are sent out three times per year; they rate countries based on the number of international visitors that arrive as well as the revenue tourism (both inbound and outbound) generates. Mexico has beaten popular destinations like Turkey, Thailand, Portugal, Greece, and the Dominican Republic for the number 8 spot.

Reasons for Mexico’s Popularity for international tourism

According to an article in El Universal, the Mexican newspaper, one of the reasons for Mexico’s sudden increase in popularity in recent years comes from the favorable exchange rates which Canadian, American, and European tourists are experiencing. The article published in July this year claims that the number of tourists coming to Mexico has risen to 64% over the last five years, That amounts to around 9.6 million people visiting the country in 2016 alone!

Nonetheless, Mexico was a popular destination for international tourism even before such favorable exchange rates; the wide range of destinations go from the mountainous and arid to lush and jungle studded. And of course, there are the beach hotspots. Better yet there are many low-cost charter flights from North America and Canada (and even some from Europe). The culture, food, and cultural attractions in the tourist destinations alone will make the trip worthwhile.

Safety in Mexico for international tourism

There are some common misconceptions that people hold about Mexico as a country, and they are often based on the news headline which focus on the troubles some parts of the country have (most notably the US-Mexican border). The major tourist hotspots like Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, and Riviera Maya, however, are safer than many US and European cities. Law abiding visitors are in little danger so long as they exercise the same caution as they would at home.

So, why do you think that Mexico is ranked amongst the top 10 for international tourism? Dont forget to leave your comments below!

Recommended article: Invest in Mexican Real Estate for Vacation Rentals

Fishing Tours in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

Fishing Tours in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

Way before Mexico started becoming one of the top places to vacation worldwide, subsistence fishing was one of the main activities on Mexico’s coastline. Mexico has over nine thousand kilometers of breathtaking coastline, so it is no surprise that Mexico had many charming, little fishing villages. In fact, this coastline provides some of the best fishing worldwide. Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit is no exception; just fifty years ago this whole area was still just a stretch of sleepy fishing villages. Today, besides being an award winning location for international visitors, its fishing industry is still alive and thriving, only now it services on fishing tours, tournaments and supplying the many fine dining restaurants on Banderas Bay.

What fish can you expect to catch in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit?

Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit is epic for fishermen; there are over five hundred different types of species of fish here. Sport fishing tours are plentiful in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit and they are available all year long. Some of the most popular catches in Banderas Bay include: Giant Tuna, Dorado, Snapper, and Roosterfish. These fish can be found in abundance in the waters that surround Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit all year round. Marlin and Sailfish are another two popular species that are very much in demand.

Fishing Tours and Tournaments

Villa La Estancia’s tour agency can help residents and hotel guests organized fishing tours and register you for the fishing tournaments in Banderas Bay. The kind of fishing tours you can choose from include renting private fishing boats and crew or joining larger parties on fishing tours with other fishing enthusiasts. Most fishing tours in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit provide participants with live bait, top of the line fishing rods and hooks, while coming equipped with GPS and Fish Finder, crewed by a captain and deckhands. While catching a big fish isn’t guaranteed, when fishing in the waters of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit your chances are greatly improved.

At Villa La Estancia’s tour agency, there are plenty of fishing tours to select from. Likewise, you can book your fishing tour independently, with Master Baiter’s Sport Fishing and Tackle, Mike’s Fishing Charters and Tours, and Charly’s Sailing and Sport Fishing. These tours come with a captain who knows where to find the fish, and in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit the best charter fleets are provided.

Fractional Vacation Ownership at Villa La Estancia Residences Riviera Nayarit

The Best Luxury Real Estate on Banderas Bay

Mexico’s ever flourishing real estate industry counts the areas of Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta as today’s top destinations for luxury properties. Found along the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta together form the world renowned Banderas Bay.

Best Luxury Real Estate on Banderas Bay

Despite the downward trend brought by the recession of 2009 that brought changes in Mexico’s development and real estate industry, prices of luxury realty remain stable yet affordable. 2016 and 2017 paint a much better future for developers and realty investors according to real estate forecasts as prices are expected to surge in the near future. Luxury real estate buyers should snap up this opportunity to purchase property on Banderas Bay, before these lower prices begin to rise.

Banderas Bay No.1 For Luxury Homes

Mexico’s real estate market provides investors and homeseekers with luxury that is affordable. Luxury real estate on Banderas Bay is available at reasonable prices, which means that the house of your dreams is within your reach. You are sure to find a lucury second home that perfectly suits your budget and needs on Banderas Bay.

The choices for luxury real estate on Banderas Bay are diverse, especially in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. You can choose from stunning mansions on the beach to luxury condo units with swimming pools and resort facilities like restaurants, room service, world class spas fitness centers. The prices you can expect to pay for luxury real estate on Banderas Bay are highly influenced by the kind of neighborhood where your property is located and the future of the area.

Why you should invest in luxury real estate on Banderas Bay

A list of benefits awaits you if you decide to invest or make Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit your second home for luxury real estate:

  • many hours of sunshine and comfortable, warm temperatures year round.
  • affordability; both in terms of cost of luxury real estate as well as cost of living
  • large expat community with several social clubs (poetry, yoga, fishing clubs, painting, reading groups etc).
  • accessibility, including cheap flights to USA and Canada and international airport.
  • quality selection of fine dining restaurants
  • day spas
  • bars and live music venues
  • boutique theatres
  • sunsets over the ocean every evening
  • walks along the Malecon boardwalk
  • art galleries

Living on Banderas Bay does not only mean staying in your own elegant home or standing on a portion of luxury realty, but it’s having the simple pleasures of life that are worth sharing with your family and special ones.

For more information about the best luxury real estate on Banderas Bay, check out the full and fractional options at Villa La Estancia Residences.

No Zika in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

No Zika in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

According to the State of Jalisco’s Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Disease Division, as well as Jalisco’s State Secretary of Health, there have been no reported cases of zika in Puerto Vallarta. State authorities, however, maintain preventative measures in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, Mexico against zika and other mosquito borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya.

What is Zika?

The zika virus is mosquito borne and is spread, in particular, by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito which also the dengue, yellow fever and chikungunya viruses. This infection is a new, emergent disease in Mexico and a very minimal number of cases have been found in the country. The city of Puerto Vallarta has already been working on preventative measures to protect the city’s population and tourists. This includes a state coordinated tourism and health program that awards companies and establishments which meet cleanliness and hygiene standards with a special certification known as Distintivos H.

No Zika in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit
Via: www.paho.org/zikavirus

Preventative measures for dengue, chikungunya and zika in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera

Nayarit

Preventative measures aimed at minimising Aedes Aegypti mosquito populations are part of the ongoing health programs put forth by the city of Puerto Vallarta and state of Jalisco. These initiatives include the fumigation of city streets, beaches and river beds as well as larval control and an aggressive awareness campaign which goes hand in hand with a community outreach program right along the coastline.

What’s more, Jalisco’s Secretary of Health has put in place a robust system of epidemiological surveillance which is designed to enable the early detection of cases in order to minimize the spread of any identified cases. The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board, the Hotel & Motel Association and the CVB consider the health of citizen and guests to the city to be of paramount importance and will continue their efforts, alongside the city, state and federal authorities (as well as the tourism industry) to keep them safe. Preventative measures look set to be in place indefinitely.

How to prevent Zika virus? See the CDC|Zika Report

Villa La Estancia Residences

Villa La Estancia Residences – Best Year for Second Homes

With only a few pieces of candy and chocolates remaining from the holiday season that has just passed, we all look to the new year for inspiration. With the New Year well and truly begun, everyone is thinking about their plans for a successful 2016. The world finance area saw positive occurrences in 2015, and it looks like the real estate market is looking great for 2016 in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. Now is the time to think about your future, so why not think about you and your family’s future and invest in a second home in Banderas Bay, Mexico?

Why 2016 is the year for a second home in Mexico?

For 2016, the predictions for the economy is looking great! And, this is the best time to invest in a second home abroad. If you are from the United States, Europe, and Canada, then you will find lots of different types of property that are quite affordable, and Mexico is the perfect destination for any second home. Villa La Estancia Residences in Riviera Nayarit, with its range of luxury 2 and 3 bedroom condos on the premises of a 5 star hotel by the beach, even offers developer financing for 2016, which makes it easier for foreigners looking to purchase a luxurious second home easy to do.

Living the highlife in your second home in Riviera Nayarit

You will find the cost of living in a foreign country like Mexico is much lower, which is one of the best reasons to purchase a second home in Riviera Nayarit. Not only does your second home become a viable investment but you get to live the highlife while you are staying in your property by the sea. The exchange rate in Mexico right now is favorable towards those spending dollars, so foreigners will be able to get more for their money when purchasing a home in Mexico as well as be able to afford other luxuries. You and your family will live the highlife in luxury in your second home in Mexico, and you won’t go broke doing it!

Villa La Estancia Residences for 2016

On the Riviera Nayarit in Nuevo Vallarta by the ocean, the Villa La Estancia Residences offer a variety of luxurious choices for properties. The properties offered make an ideal second home for any family, investors, or couples who are looking to purchase real estate in Mexico. Your choices include two and three bedroom sea view condos directly overlooking the beach or pools, penthouses with panoramic ocean views, and much more. Becoming a Villa La Estancia Resident also means that you have access to all of the luxury amenities at the Villa La Estancia hotel, which includes a world class spa, restaurants, gym, pools, room service and more.

Deeded Full and Fractional Second Homes for 2016

In 2016, the Villa La Estancia Residences on the beautiful Banderas Bay offers the chance for you to purchase second homes either on a full time or fractional basis. Fractional ownership is offered for 6 weeks (one eighth) or 13 weeks (one quarter) and are also eligible for developer financing for 2016. When you are ready to purchase and commit to being a full time owner of a second home, then the Villa La Estancia Residences will help you do that too. Buying a Villa La Estancia Residences, Riviera Nayarit in 2016 means that you will live the highlife in your second home!

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.

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:

pool-2

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.

Looking for Property in Mexico?

Buying property in Mexico is a great investment compared to the real estate available in the United States and in Europe, and includes houses, condos, apartments, luxury mansions and resort living like that offered here at Villa La Estancia Residences. The prices of property in Mexico saw a downturn after the recession of 2009 but are on the increase, so be sure to act soon to get the best prices.

Pros and Cons of Buying Property in Mexico

As in any country, you may hear ‘horror stories’ related to buying property, but generally speaking, purchasing property in Mexico is very easy and goes smoothly. The land in Mexico is low in price, and low local labor costs mean that maintenance is much cheaper than back home, so too are the taxes and your utility expenses. Likewise the actual cost of real estate is generally very affordable in Mexico.

The reasons for purchasing property in Mexico will be different for each and every person reflecting your personal circumstances. Maybe, you have been residing in Mexico for several years, renting property after property, which is always a waste of money in the long term, or maybe you are looking for an investment that will bring in extra income. For example, the most common reason for purchasing property in Mexico at Villa La Estancia Residences is to have a second home where you can stay for vacations both long and short-term.

Choosing the Best Investment

Property in Mexico increases in value just like in other countries, however it is worth noting that property prices and their rate of increase will depend very much on the popularity of the location you are choosing for your purchase. For example; is it in a popular city like Puerto Vallarta or on the beach? Is there a large development like a shopping mall, airport or highway planned for your area? There are three key factors which can help you choose property in Mexico that is likely to rise in value which include: the location of the property, the attractions near the property, and if the property is located by the airport or busy highways.

When you purchasing property in Mexico, one of the key factors is to think about the current level of development of the area and its potential. You might buy a property at a low price while there is very little to do in the way of attractions, restaurants and access to other major cities or an airport, and then see a great rise in your property value as development begins to happen in that area, like a new highway or shopping mall. However, beware that this may take some years or never happen in particularly rural areas. Mexico is nearly 2 million square kilometers and many of the country is not accessed easily. The highways and roads are improving, and roads are being added to the remote areas, so be patient as this does take time.

Research

Before you purchase property in Mexico you should first do research on the property and the area that it is located in, then make sure you choose the location very carefully. You should always hire a professional to conduct the purchase of the property, so that the legal transaction follows the laws in Mexico.

There have been thousands and thousands of foreigners that have purchased property successfully in Mexico. You can be another foreigner that purchases property in Mexico too.

Why not come and visit us at Villa La Estancia Residences on a Try and Buy visit to start the ball rolling. Click here for more information about our TRY AND BUY scheme. Before you know it you will be a property owner in Mexico.

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.