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Riviera Nayarit

Street Art in Puerto Vallarta

Did you know that Puerto Vallarta is home to incredible street art in downtown? It’s true.  Talented artists from Puerto Vallarta and even visiting artists from across Mexico have created colorful street art that has brightened up our city in a beautiful and artistic manner. The latest masterpiece is located downtown on the corner of Abasolo and Juárez street. Visitors and residents of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit should take the time to check out this modern display of street art that is sure to impress.

Vibrant Street Art in Puerto Vallarta

Street art murals can take a boring building wall and turn into a beautiful piece of art. In fact there are many pieces in downtown Puerto Vallarta that have transformed a blank canvas into a work of art. Misael Iván López Martínez is the talented artist behind the impressive mural that has charmed locals and visitors alike. López Martínez is originally from Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, but has been living in Puerto Vallarta for the last 9 years.  While the stunning art mural has no title, life and death as seen by the Mexican culture are the featured topics. In addition, there are several other colorful and inspiring street murals found throughout downtown Puerto Vallarta, too. 

misael paints street art puerto vallarta credits to owner
© Photo by Misael Paints and O3LV. Location- Pipila 117, Centro, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. Credits to the owners.

Elements in Street Art Murals 

In López Martínez’s mural, you can see a catrina face, butterflies, flowers, the Aztec symbol Nahui-Ollin, corn, and the God Pakal (in his transition to death). The Aztec symbol Nahui-Ollin represents the center of the universe. Also, corn is a very essential food in the Mexican diet. Next, the Aztec God Pakal is depicted in his transition from life to death. In terms of size, the wall painting measures an astounding 15 meters long. Likewise, one end of the mural  measures six meters in height, and the other side measures four meters high. In terms of how long it took to create, the impressive masterpiece was completed in just under a month.

Dream Homes at Villa La Estancia  

Are you in the market for a dream home in Mexico? North of Puerto Vallarta is the peaceful beachfront community of Nuevo Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit where Villa La Estancia has lovely beachfront residences for sale. Situated on one of Banderas Bay’s best beaches, Villa La Estancia is selling private beachfront residences that are part of a modern hotel-condo concept. Essentially, our valued homeowners enjoy all the benefits of home ownership, plus have access to our world class amenities and resort services. In addition, there are full and fractional ownership options available so that everyone’s budget can be met. If you qualify, there may be in-house developer financing available, too.  Plus, Villa La Estancia’s beachfront residences are just steps away from a pristine beach with amazing Banderas Bay views. Are you ready to learn more? If so, contact us at Villa La Estancia today to see which of our incredible luxury residences are still available for purchase. Before you know it, you could own a dream home in Mexico, too.

villa la estancia residences nuevo vallarta

To conclude, the next time you find yourself in downtown Puerto Vallarta, make sure to look for the latest street art mural located on the corner of Abasolo and Juárez street. This vibrant street art mural embraces Puerto Vallarta’s spirit and charm at its best. And don’t forget to visit Villa La Estancia if you want to buy a dream home in Mexico. 

Must read articles:  

Top Puerto Vallarta Activities in 2020

Best Destination in 2019: Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

by VLEAdminRE,
Riviera Nayarit

Weekend Beaches to Visit

For expats and nationals, Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit are top coastal cities to live in. It’s easy to see why, because Puerto Vallarta has some of the best beaches in the area. The Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay provides a beautiful backdrop, mesmerizing scenery and tons of great beaches for those lucky enough to live there. Are you wanting to kick back and relax on the soft sands drinking a delicious cocktail or just watching people in the water? You can do that in Puerto Vallarta as there is a beach that will meet all of your needs. To learn more about the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta, continue to read below.

Playa Los Muertos: Action and Excitement

Do you want to be surrounded by excitement and action, and you don’t mind crowds? If you do, then Playa Los Muertos is the perfect weekend beach to visit. Playa Los Muertos Beach is easy to find as it is the main beach in town located by the Puerto Vallarta Malecon Boardwalk and Pier. The Playa Los Muertos Beach is walking distance to many different shops and restaurants in Old Town, Puerto Vallarta, and this beach is the most popular in Puerto Vallarta. Playa Los Muertos Beach is perfect for people who want to enjoy the warm sun and enjoy mingling with the crowds. There are also restaurants that provide tables with shade right on the beach, too. Are you an adrenaline junkie and looking for something exciting to do? You can go parasailing, jet skiing, and water skiing, then take a spin on the big yellow banana boat for a fun, yet silly ride. The Puerto Vallarta pier was specially designed to resemble a sailboat, and once dusk arrives, the lights on the pier create an illuminated, romantic atmosphere.

Conchas Chinas: Quiet and Beautiful

Are you wanting to go to a beach that isn’t crowded, but instead quiet and beautiful? If you are, then Conchas Chinas Beach is the perfect beach spot for you. Conchas Chinas Beach will get you away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The waters are spectacular as they are a clear turquoise blue, and the sands are white and soft. Since the waters are so clear, the ocean waters are perfect for swimming, but the area can have strong undercurrents from time to time so stay aware. At the southern edge of the beach, you will find several shallow tide ponds, and you can watch fish and crabs just enjoying the water there. You will want to make sure you bring a picnic when you come to the Conchas Chinas Beach as there aren’t any restaurants on the beach. At the top of the stairs above the beach, you can find a few port-a-potties if you need to use the restroom. A day at the Conchas Chinas Beach will create memories that you and your family and friends can remember for many years. Living in paradise is pretty sweet, isn’t it?

Playa Palmares: A Favorite Beach with Locals

Playa Palmares Beach is a favorite beach with the locals. The Playa Palmares Beach is located on Conchas Chinas southern edge, right below a condominium complex that has the same name. Guests to the beach can use the stairs that are located off of the main highway and the stairs lead straight to the Playa Palmares Beach. Usually, the beach isn’t crowded and the water is crystal clear, which makes it great for swimming. There are no public bathrooms at the Playa Palmares Beach, but some of the local hotels have restaurants. Plan ahead and bring a picnic with you when you are visiting this beach.

Boca de Tomates: Unusual Beach Experience

The Boca de Tomates Beach is ideal if you are wanting an unusual and authentic Vallarta beach experience. The Boca de Tomates Beach sands are black, and many visitors are just not used to this. To get to the Boca de Tomates Beach, you will have to drive a few miles on a dirt road, but it is just a few minutes from the Puerto Vallarta Airport. The Boca de Tomates Beach is home to many local wildlife such as crocs and iguanas. Unfortunately, this isn’t the best beach for swimming because of the dark sands, but visitors can enjoy the wildlife and the sea turtles. The sea turtles come to this beach every year to lay their eggs, then when the baby sea turtles have hatched, the conservationists will release the baby sea turtles to the sea. This is amazing to watch and a fun experience for the whole family. On the beach there are numerous seafood restaurants where you can dine and get something cold and delicious to drink. It has been said that the best pescado zarandeado and shrimp ceviche can be found here at one of the little restaurants on this secluded beach.

Playa Colomitos: Beauty and Adventures

Playa Colomitos Beach is the beach for you if you are in search of beauty and adventure. Visitors can go on a tour of the bay on a boat, as there are several small beaches just south of Puerto Vallarta where visitors can only reach by boat. The Playa Colomitos Beach is perfect for visitors looking for relaxation among nature and adventure. To get to the Playa Colomitos Beach, you will need to take a taxi ride to Boca de Tomatlan, and this is usually about a twenty-minute journey from Old Town Puerto Vallarta. Then in Boca de Tomatlan, you will take a water taxi which lasts approximately fifteen minutes until you arrive at Playa Colomitos Beach. The sands on this beach are white and soft, and the waters are a bluish green color. The waters are clear and ideal for swimming. Before you travel to this beach, you may want to make reservations at the Ocean Grill Restaurant, which is a lovely and elegant open air restaurant next to the beach. They provide fresh and tasty cuisine that comes with an amazing view of the ocean.

Did you enjoy the information that we have provided on the best weekend beaches to visit in Puerto Vallarta? Are you a long time Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta resident or a new expat in town? If so, you should see how many of these beaches you can visit, then let us know which one was your favorite.

Recommended: Check out our Villa La Estancia Real Estate Discovery Program
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.

Recommendations for you: 5 Tips for Enjoying Retirement In Mexico

by VLEAdminRE,
Real Estate, Riviera Nayarit

PV’s History: Fishing Village to a World Class Tourist Destination

The rich heritage and history are just a few reasons why Puerto Vallarta is a favorite vacation destination in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta has become very popular and tourism is thriving. Puerto Vallarta’s origins have a lot to do with its close proximity to valuable mining centers in the Sierra region. In addition, the beautiful Bay of Banderas along with the Ameca River agricultural valley have contributed to the history and development of Puerto Vallarta over the years. Do you live in Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit and want to learn more about your hometown? If so, continue to read below to learn more about PV’s history, and how today it is a hot spot for international tourists.

PV’s History: Fishing Village to a World Class Tourist Destination

Before the nineteenth century, there isn’t much-documented information about Puerto Vallarta’s history. Archaeologists have found evidence that Aztatlan people inhabited this area around 580 BC. Centuries later in 1524, the Spanish invaded the area which led the native people and the Spanish colonizers to battle. The battle was very large and it occurred between Hernan Cortes and up to 20,000 native Indians. Ultimately, Hernan Cortez won the battle which led to the Ameca Valley being controlled by Spain. The valley was later renamed Banderas, because of the vibrant and colorful flags that the native Indians carried with them when they were battling. Puerto Vallarta appeared on the maps and with sailing logs as a safe place for the Manila Galleon trade. The Banderas Bay beaches and the Banderas Valley were places that ships that could go to during their travels when they were seeking refuge or a replace to restock supplies. Also, Puerto Vallarta was an area where any smuggled goods could be sent forward inland to towns that were located near Mascota, so they could avoid customs that were located in San Blas, Nayarit.

Puerto Vallarta: The Transformation

Puerto Vallarta went through a major transformation during the sixties and seventies. With this transformation, the town was converted from a small fishing village into a world class tourist destination that it is today. The federal government of Mexico started off by resolving disputes with old properties that had stopped developing for most of the twentieth century. There were numerous communal lands that was converted into land that became privately owned. In addition, in 1973 revenue from land trust sales were used to assist the city to grow even more.

Puerto Vallarta: The Night of the Iguana Legend

Another major element about the history of Puerto Vallarta’s surrounds the filming of the “The Night of the Iguana” movie in 1964. The movie was directed by John Huston, an American director, and the movie was filmed in Mismaloya which is a small beach village just south of Puerto Vallarta,. The media in the United States covered the affair between Elizabeth Taylor (actress) and Richard Burton (actor) who were the two stars of the movie. The media news reported all the fights and lover’s quarrels that the two stars had during filming, and the media attention actually helped put Puerto Vallarta on the map for tourists in the United States who were intrigued by the drama.

Puerto Vallarta: Improvements with Transportation

Another aspect that played an important role in Puerto Vallarta’s history is that the Mexican government began investing in transportation to and from Puerto Vallarta in the late 1960’s which made it much easier for tourists to visit. The Puerto Vallarta International Airport was constructed, then ground transportation was also improved, so automobile traffic could be increased to the city as well. Also, on June 1st, 1970, the El Salado wharf was inaugurated, which made Puerto Vallarta the first harbor town in Mexico. Today, the cruise ship terminal is actually located where the El Salado wharf was initially developed, and Puerto Vallarta was officially designated as a city in 1968. The federal and state government in Mexico helped make Puerto Vallarta a tourist destination. In the 1970’s, hotel and resort development started to increase, and currently there are more than fifty 5-star and 4-star hotels and resorts in the area. Over the last several decades, tourism has significantly increased in Puerto Vallarta, and there are numerous expat communities with residents from Europe, Canada, and the United States purchasing Mexican real estate or buying a second home in the area.

Puerto Vallarta: Modern Day

Today, Puerto Vallarta has economic wealth due to its perfect climate, natural scenery, breathtaking beaches, and rich heritage. Back in the early eighties, the peso was devalued which made PV a super deal for foreigners visiting the area. In the early nineties, a federal Agrarian Law was put into place that allowed foreigners to own ejido land via bank trusts. More land and properties were able to be sold, which led to increased development and construction in private homes, resorts, and condos. Puerto Vallarta’s growth was on the rise again, which allowed many foreigners to invest in real estate in Puerto Vallarta. Today, tourists who want a great vacation that they can afford come to Puerto Vallarta because it is still reasonably priced.

This article was based around PV’s history, fishing village to a world class tourist destination. Are you interested in buying real estate in Puerto Vallarta now? If you are, then you should check out Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit, a quiet and tranquil PV neighborhood located on Banderas Bay. Our private beachfront residences are solidly constructed and no attention to detail has been spared. Visit our property today for a tour, and soon you could be living the Puerto Vallarta lifestyle with your dream second home in paradise.

by VLEAdminRE,
Riviera Nayarit

Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival: March 8th – 10th

Do you live at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit? If you do, make sure you make plans to attend the Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival on March 8th through 10th at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a day trip down from your home in paradise, and celebrate the local wildlife that makes life in Banderas Bay so special. Read below to learn more about the Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival which is guaranteed to be a fun and educational day for all that attend.

Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Just an hour drive south of Villa La Estancia in Nuevo Vallarta, the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens regularly hosts educational and cultural events. This month, Villa La Estancia homeowners should take time to day trip to attend the Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival on March 8th through March 10th. The Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens is a non-profit organization that heavily relies on donations to maintain operations at the naturally beautiful sanctuary situated 30 minutes south of downtown Puerto Vallarta. The Vallarta Botanical Gardens works hard to organize conservation projects and educational events that locals and visitors alike can enjoy. Would you like to know how you can help support your local community? Please visit the Botanical Garden’s website for more information about membership opportunities. A simple financial donation from residents like yourselves will ensure that this incredibly important organization continues to prosper.

Bird & Nature Festival Workshops

This year, the Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival will include numerous workshops in both English and Spanish to accommodate event attendees. The Vallarta Botanical Garden entry free is only $200 pesos per day. However, all tours and workshops that are offered outside of the Botanical Gardens cost between $600 to $1000 pesos each. A few of the top workshops to attend include a tour of the Macaw Sanctuary in Cabo Corrientes which is also known as “Santuario de las Guacamayas.” Stop and smell the roses and enjoy bird watching with a morning bird walk through the Botanical Gardens. Step back in time and see local crocodiles in their native habitat at the Estero El Salado. There is also a workshop about woodpeckers that are found only in the state of Jalisco, and a tour of Rancho Primavera located further south in El Tuito. Do you happen to have a young child who loves to draw? There is a free bird sketching course for children 8 years old to 12 years old that will be held at the Botanical Gardens Hall of Flowers. There is also an adult bird sketching course available as well that costs $300 pesos per person. Visit the Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival website to see the full schedule of events here. Make sure to sign up for any workshops that interest you as space is limited.

Botanical Gardens Location

Villa La Estancia residents should take advantage of the affordable admission fees to attend the Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival as it is only 200 pesos per day. Want to attend all 3 days of the weekend festival? You can get a weekend pass for only 500 pesos. Children under the age of 4 can enter the gardens for free. All admission costs are collected at the entrance to the Botanical Gardens which is situated 24 km (15 miles) south of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Please note that there is limited parking at the Botanical Gardens, so it is best to arrive via public transportation such as by bus, taxi or uber if possible.

Villa La Estancia homeowners should plan to head south to attend this year’s Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival from March 8th-10th. This celebration is a time to appreciate how the natural beauty of Banderas Bay, and pay homage to the incredibly rich and colorful wildlife that live amongst us.

See more: Happy Healthy Lives in Puerto Vallarta

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations

Health Benefits of Swimming in the Ocean

The inviting waters of the sea are enjoyed by many people of all ages and persuasions across the world these days, but did you know that the practice of soaking, swimming, and bathing in sea water as a method of beautification and health maintenance is thousands of years old? It is! In fact, the practice dates back to the times of ancient Greece!

It seems the Grecians knew what they were about, as well; certain studies have shown that sea water can be good for your skin and hair as well as your nerves and circulation! Of course, while the Grecians like to bath in warm sea water in tubs or pools, we tend to enjoy it at source, so to speak, these days.

Here are some of the health benefits you can look forward to when you purchase property on Banderas Bay, Mexico.

  • Boost Your Immune System by swimming in the ocean

Thanks to the natural blend of salts, minerals such as magnesium, vitamins, amino acids, living microorganisms, and trace elements to be found in seawater it can be great for many things. This includes our immune systems; the sea can have antibiotic and antibacterial properties which keep us healthy, and swimming in these waters can open your pores to flush out toxins. Better yet, the sea air is full of negatively charged ions which can improve your immunity when they attach to your lungs.

  • Better circulation

Amongst other health benefits, swimming in the ocean can improve your circulation, and it’s not just about the exercise; the waters themselves may improve your circulation by causing your heart, veins, arteries, and capillaries to carry oxygen rich blood from your heart throughout your body at an increased rate. Seawater therapy consists of swimming or bathing in warm sea water in order to restore essential minerals that have been lost to stress, toxins, and unhealthy living.

  • General well-being

Many people turn to the waters of the ocean for its overall well-being and health benefits; swimming in warm seawater may help your body to combat conditions like arthritis, bronchitis, inflammatory disease, and many miscellaneous aches and pain. In fact, because seawater is magnesium rich it can also help to lower stress and lull you to sleep by calming nerves and irritability.

  • Beautify your Skin

As well as health benefits, swimming in the ocean can improve your skin. The magnesium in seawater can also help to moisturize your skin and reduce flaws in its appearance. You may see a reduction in redness, roughness, and uneven skin tone if you regularly bathe in sea water.

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by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, Real Estate, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Happy Healthy Lives in Puerto Vallarta

A high quality of life can be found in Puerto Vallarta, which is why many foreigners decide to come to Puerto Vallarta to save on medical practices, groceries, and much more. If you are planning to move to Puerto Vallarta to live, then here we have provided some useful tips on staying young and living happy healthy lives in Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta Health Tips

Enjoy the Ocean Water

Swimming in the ocean water will help to keep your body healthy. The salt water from the ocean will purify the skin and promotes cell growth while detoxifying too. You can lower stress and depression and increase endorphins when you swim in the ocean daily.

Eat Fresh

Fortunately, there are tropical fruits being sold on just about every corner in Puerto Vallarta with prices that are amazingly low. You can leave any Puerto Vallarta market with a bag of fresh produce for just under five dollars. You can enjoy the exotic fruits, which include passion fruit, mangos of many varieties, guanabana, star fruit, yaka, and lychees if you just step away from the regular fruits like apples, bananas, and oranges.

Seafood

In Puerto Vallarta, seafood is affordable, abundant, and packed with many nutrients. There are open air markets where seafood can be purchased freshly caught. You can even purchase seafood fresh on the beach. You should try eating raw seafood and cooked seafood such as shellfish and fish by marinating them in lime juice, the Mexican way.

Exercise

Puerto Vallarta has numerous venues for exercise for every preference and health reasons. There is cross fit, yoga, boot camps on the beach, gyms, and the municipal stadium to exercise. If you love fitness and you want only the best exercise equipment and professional instructors, then you will have no problem finding that and more in Puerto Vallarta. At Villa La Estancia, you will be able to use the hotel’s state of the art gym as part of your ownership privileges as well as the pools for swimming.

You can have a happy healthy lives in Puerto Vallarta. There are so many foreigners relocating to Puerto Vallarta, so they can enjoy a healthier lifestyle without all the extra costs.

by VLEAdminRE,