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Destinations, Riviera Nayarit

Flora and Fauna of Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the most beautiful flora and fauna in Mexico. The variety of plant and animal life is due in thanks to the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains lush vegetation. The biodiverse environment makes Puerto Vallarta a beautiful place that anyone would be proud to call home. Likewise, many foreigners have invested in Puerto Vallarta real estate because they fall in love with the area’s incredible beauty. For Example, Villa La Estancia in neighboring Riviera Nayarit is an excellent option if you are interested in luxury beachfront residences for sale. The modern hotel-condo concept is an ideal investment for savvy homeowners who want a second home in Mexico. In the meantime, continue to read below to learn the natural beauty in Puerto Vallarta’s flora and fauna.

Puerto Vallarta’s Flora and Fauna

The tropical climate is one of the main reasons that flora and fauna thrive in Puerto Vallarta. There is plenty of rain in the summer along with humidity and sun that makes this area ideal for many different animals and plants. The Banderas Bay ocean waters and the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains embrace one another to create the perfect place for inhabitants of the jungle. The tropical climate is essential for the biodiversity and ecology in Banderas Bay which includes Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. There are more than forty kilometers of beaches, mountains, coasts, and rivers in the area, which helps support a large amount of flora and fauna. Villa La Estancia Riviera Nayarit has an ideal location surrounded by the natural beauty of the region.

Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Woman appreciating the flora and fauna of Puerto Vallarta

In Puerto Vallarta, one perfect place to really appreciate the flora and fauna is at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Located south of Puerto Vallarta, the Vallarta Botanical Garden is open to the public. There, guests can view and learn about the 3,000 plus species that live in this area. Also, they will be impressed by the immense orchid nursery that has over 100 different orchid species. You can tour the gardens and you will want to make sure you head down the hill to the river, too. There, why not take a refreshing dip in the river and enjoy a picnic lunch, too. There is also a restaurant on the grounds if you prefer to eat indoors. They serve delicious Mexican dishes along with beautiful views.

Wildlife in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is home to many different species of birds, which include the Cope Magpie, Mexican Cacique, Yellow Chest, and the Blue Alcatraz. Along with the bird species, there are so many different species of fish, too. Common fish species in Banderas Bay include the snapper, sailfish, blue and black marlin, and croaker. You can see these species up close if you go snorkeling or scuba diving in the Los Arcos de Mismaloya area, which is on the southern edge of the Banderas Bay near PV. The Sierra Madre jungle is home to many different animals, too. Animals include jaguars, nocturnal badger, tigrillos, white nosed coati, and jaguarundis. You can also see iguanas, lizards, acaltepon, crocs, and different snake species, too.

Marine Life in Puerto Vallarta

Marine Life in Puerto Vallarta

Visitors that are on a boat cruising the Banderas Bay can see dolphins jumping and playing. You can see bottlenose, spotted, and spinner dolphins here. Also, sea turtles return to this area every year to lay their eggs. You can see 5 different turtle species in the Banderas Bay, which include the olive ridley, green, leatherback, and the hawksbill turtle. When visiting the Puerto Vallarta area, you should make sure you see the releasing of the baby sea turtles when they have hatched. It is amazing to see. Humpback whales migrate to Banderas Bay each winter to birth their babies in the warm waters, too. Some Villa La Estancia residents have been thrilled to witness the whales migration from the privacy of their beachfront balconies and terraces.

Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay are home to a variety of beautiful flora and fauna. If you would like to have your own home in paradise, then you should consider Villa La Estancia. Located just north of Puerto Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit, we have luxurious beachfront residences right now for sale for qualified homebuyers. The hotel-condo concept gives homeowners access to resort quality amenities and services that make every day feel like vacation. Plus, with both full and fractional ownership options available, your dream vacation home may be closer than you think. Ready to learn more? You can visit Villa La Estancia’s website to read about the property. Contact us today. Our professional staff is ready and waiting to help you find your dream home in Mexico.

 

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The Botanical Gardens of Puerto Vallarta

by VLEAdminRE,
Riviera Nayarit

Best Photos to Take in Puerto Vallarta

Are you one of our beloved homeowners at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit? Or, have you visited the property and dream of buying a second home or vacation home at our property? Looking for the best photos to take in PV so you can show off your dream life to friends and family. With the advanced technology of today’s cell phones,  it’s easier than ever to take a great photo when you are at your vacation home. While the views from your private balcony at Villa La Estancia are hard to beat, there are a few great spots to check out in PV, too. Read our list below of the top 3 places to take the best photos in Puerto Vallarta. Then, capture special memories that you can share on social media to show what living a Puerto Vallarta luxury lifestyle is all about.  

Did you buy a home in Riviera Nayarit because you love getting outside to exercise and enjoy the area’s great weather? If so, you’ll be pleased to learn where to go for our #1 pick for a great photo in Puerto Vallarta. Where to take great photos in PV? Don’t miss the Cerro de la Cruz, our number one choice. The Cerro de la Cruz, also known as the Mirador, offers spectacular city, jungle and ocean views from up high. To get there, head to the famous Puerto Vallarta malecon downtown near the Mandala and Zoo bars. Then, start walking up the hill inland as you enjoy an urban hike. Stay straight on Calle Abasolo as you make your way up the Mirador’s stairs until you reach the top of Cerro de la Cruz. The Cerro de la Cruz mirador viewpoint offers stunning city, Sierra Madre jungle and ocean views which make for one of the best photos in PV. What better way to get a nice work out and enjoy amazing vistas, too? The 360 views from up top simply can’t be beat. Look out for Los Arcos in the south, downtown Puerto Vallarta right in front, the lush jungle behind you, and even Punta Mita is visible to the north. The panoramic views from Cerro de la Cruz just can’t be beat. 

 

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  • #2 Puerto Vallarta Sign

Our second choice for the best photos in PV is the Puerto Vallarta sign. All across Mexico, colorful block letters spelling out city names are on display. Currently, Puerto Vallarta’s city sign is on the Malecon boardwalk near the main plaza and arches. The PV sign was unveiled back in 2016 during the World Tourism Day events.  Designed and created by  Carlos Terres, a talented sculptor and artist, Terres is the same artist that replaced the destroyed crown at the city’s main church. Take a photo in front of the Puerto Vallarta sign which is a perfect keepsake from a day spent in town. While the PV City Sign has been moved to various locations around town including the Marina and the Amphitheater, it is back in its original Malecon location. Take time to appreciate the traditional designs and colorful motifs in the details.

Our third choice for best photo in PV is the renovated Puerto Vallarta pier. The Los Muertos Beach pier was inaugurated with fireworks and live music back on January 4th, 2013 after nearly 3 years of reconstruction. Designed by architect José de Jesús Torres Vega. Torres Vega won the Mexican Biannual Architecture Prize, too. The renovated pier is a top Puerto Vallarta landmark and ideal spot for a best photo in PV. Visitors and Villa La Estancia residents should make sure to visit at night, too. At that time, the pier is lit up creating a brilliant sailboat design that makes for a stunning image. Also, water taxis are at the pier so you can hop on to explore the beauty of Banderas Bay at sea. Take a water taxi and head south to cruise the bay to check out the area’s pristine beaches and quaint villages. Las Ánimas, Quimixto, Mismaloya, and Yelapa are top spots to visit. These lovely destinations offer amazing photo opportunities, too.

 

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#PlayaLosMuertos en #PuertoVallarta es de esos lugares que te roban el aliento. ¡Descubre los descuentos que tenemos en nuestro link en bio! 📸: @luisengonzalez

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Banderas Bay offers old world charm, modern conveniences, and stunning natural beauty. Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit is ideally situated in the tranquil Nuevo Vallarta community. If you want a beachfront residence that is peaceful, yet still easy to get into the heart of the action in PV, contact us today.  Rest assured that our friendly Villa La Estancia staff members will be happy to schedule a property tour. However, we only have a few remaining units available for sale so don’t hesitate. Lastly, we even offer fractional ownership and in-house financing that may be available for qualified individuals, too. The time is now. Your dream home in Mexico could be at Villa la Estancia in Riviera Nayarit. Contact us today to learn more! 

by VLEAdminRE,
Real Estate

Top Puerto Vallarta Activities in 2020

Can you believe that the year 2020 is already here? Many tourist towns across the world enjoy a peak in tourism over the summer, in Puerto Vallarta the winter months mean high season. Due to the pleasant weather the area enjoys from November through April, visitors flock to the region to take advantage of great weather and escape cooler temperatures up north. Local restaurants, shops, and resorts are anxiously awaiting to welcome guests as 2020 is nearly upon us. Do you live at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit and are expecting houseguests during this year’s high season that you want to show around town? If so, here are some of our recommendations on the top Puerto Vallarta activities to enjoy in 2020.

  • Take In a Live Musical Performance

One of the top Puerto Vallarta activities to enjoy in 2020 is a performance at one of the area’s local theater groups. Puerto Vallarta is home to several local theaters that offers visitors the opportunity to take in a variety of world famous musicals and theater performances in a cozy setting. For example, Act II is one of the best spots in town to watch a live musical or theatrical performance. The venue boasts several different areas where talented local actors and singers take the stage. At Act II, guests can sit back, relax, and even sip on a cocktail or two as they watch incredible performances by local talent. Get ready to enjoy lots of interaction between the guests and performers. Watching an amazing show in such a comfortable and welcoming setting is one of the top Puerto Vallarta activities to enjoy in 2020. In addition to Act II, Incanto is another local theater company that offers a wide variety of musical acts and live performances. Make sure to check out their large outdoor terrace with lovely Cuale River views where you can enjoy drinks or dinner before or after a performance. Another great spot to enjoy live music is at Bambinos Trattoria which features an endearing 4 brother ensemble that sings the best classic hits in English and Spanish. They also offer a full Italian menu that is delicious and well priced, too.

  • Become a Local Foodie in 3 Hours 

Locally based Vallarta Food Tours recently won the 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards for Experiences. Vallarta food Tours has been giving visitors to Puerto Vallarta insider tips on the best foods to enjoy since 2012. One of the top Puerto Vallarta activities in town, what better way to get to know the best of the local cuisine than hitting up the most popular spots in town? Vallarta Food Tours has creatively and efficiently created a variety of food tours that give attendees a taste of authentic Vallarta cuisine from casual street vendors to fine dining. Join Vallarta food Tours and savor some of the best foods in Puerto Vallarta as their knowledgeable and friendly guides share interesting tidbits and local history. Make sure to come hungry, and get ready to taste the best that Puerto Vallarta has to offer.

  • Try a Mountain Bike Tour With Eco Ride

Whether you live in the area or are visiting, everyone should take the time to get outside and enjoy nature. Are you ready to get some exercise at the same time? Seasoned bike riders or novices should check out locally based mountain bike tour company Eco-Ride. Eco-Ride can accommodate beginner riders up to advanced riders, and offer bike tours in the area that offer incredible views along with a great workout. Skip the beach for the day, and spend time exploring the lush jungle of the Sierra Madre mountains just minutes from the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

In 2020, there are tons of Puerto Vallarta activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. To start with, we suggest you watch a live show, try the top local food tour, and take a bike ride on the outskirts of town. Try our top 3 suggestions on Puerto Vallarta activities and let us know which was your favorite and why. If you decide you want to stay longer or buy a vacation home in the area, remember to check out Villa La Estancia private residences. Located in the tranquil neighborhood of Nuevo Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit, our luxurious beachfront homes have it all – style, privacy and access to world class resort amenities. Contact us at Villa La Estancia today if you are ready to become part of our exclusive beachfront community. Before you know it, you could be living your dream life in Mexico.

 

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,
Riviera Nayarit

Puerto Vallarta’s 2019 Festival Gourmet International Has Arrived!

Villa La Estancia residents take note! The 25th Anniversary of the Festival Gourmet International will be held from November 19th to 24th, 2019. With exciting events in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Tepic, this year’s program is destined to outdo past year’s events. The 25th anniversary of the festival includes more than 30 world famous chefs that are participating in the 2019 Festival Gourmet International. We don’t want our beloved Villa La Estancia residents to miss this exciting gastronomic event taking place at our front door. Make sure you read more below about the 25th anniversary of the Festival Gourmet International in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, and don’t forget to purchase tickets right away to secure your spot!

25th Annual Festival Gourmet International

Local chefs Thierry Blouet and Heinz Reize put together the first event back in 1995 when they joined together to create the Festival Gourmet. Their hope was to promote local restaurants by inviting internationally recognized chefs to Banderas Bay. At that time, only six local hotels and six restaurants in the Puerto Vallarta area participated in the inaugural festival. However, over the course of the next 25 years, more than half a million people have attended the Festival Gourmet International. In addition, more than six hundred celebrity chefs have participated, too. In fact, many people believe that the Festival Gourmet International has really helped promote Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit as important culinary scenes. At this year’s event, there will be more than 30 hotels and restaurants participating including Villa La Estancia’s own La Casona restaurant.

Festival 2019 Program

The 2019 Festival Gourmet International will be held from Tuesday, Nov. 19th to Sunday, Nov. 24th. The first event will take place at Vidanta’s Convention Center on Nov. 19th at 8pm and will include all participating chefs and hosts of this year’s event. The following day, Chefs Thierry Blouet, Heinz Reize and Roland Menetrey will come together to share their combined 150 years of experience and passion for the culinary arts at Cafe des Artistes. Together, these impressive chefs will share some of their favorite recipes with event attendees. In addition to tasting great food, guests will be able to sample some of the best wines and tequilas presented by professional Sommeliers. Additional special activities at this year’s Festival Gourmet International include a tribute to wine and cheese, live jazz music, and even an exciting Polo Tournament.

Banderas Bay Restaurants Involved

There are more than 30 top restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Tepic that are taking part in the 25th Anniversary of the Festival Gourmet International. Participating restaurants include Azafran, Barrio Bistro, Cafe des Artistes, Coco Tropical, El Dorado, Emiliano, Hector’s Kitchen, Icu, Kaiser Maximilian, La Terraza Di Roma, La Palapa, Le Kliff, Loma 42, River Cafe, Stars, Trio, Tuna Blanca, Xoklo, Andrea, Azur, Bordeaux, Divum, Eugenia, Las Casitas, La Casona, La Corona, Lucca, Mozzamare, and Tukipa. As you can see, there are lots of great new restaurants participating in this year’s Festival Gourmet International. An old favorite, La Casona which is located onsite at our very own Villa La Estancia, will feature a special menu for the event that includes delicious Mediterranean cuisine prepared by local Chef Leonardo Castro. Castro has over 25 years in the culinary industry and specializes in international-level techniques that effortlessly combine French, Italian,Thai, Asian, Mediterranean and Mexican influences. As our Villa La Estancia homeowners already know, La Casona is well known for having the best cuts of meat in town including Kobe and New York cuts.

Make sure you don’t miss this year’s 2019 Festival Gourmet International in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit & Tepic from Nov. 19th to Nov. 24th. Villa La Estancia residents, get ready to mingle with world class chefs and taste some of their incredible creations for yourself. To make sure you don’t miss out, you can buy tickets today at https://www.festivalgourmet.com/.

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by VLEAdminRE,
Riviera Nayarit

PV Cultural Event Alert: “The Spirit of Frida”

Did you know that one of Mexico’s most iconic artists is Frida Kahlo? Kahlo was a talented and eccentric painter best known for her nature inspired art that also paid homage to Mexico’s artifacts. Villa La Estancia homeowners should head south to Puerto Vallarta on Saturday, November 1st from 9 am to 3pm to attend an interpretive exhibit celebrating Frida Kahlo at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. The exhibition will contain works from local and international artists. The daily entrance fee into the Vallarta Botanical Gardens is just 200 pesos, and is one of Puerto Vallarta’s top attractions for visitors and locals alike. Are you a Villa La Estancia resident looking for something fun to do? If so, continue to read below about the inspiring Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, and make sure to attend the “Spirit of Frida” at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens on November 1st.

Frida Kahlo: Master Painter & Mexican Icon

Kahlo was a skilled painter that is best known for her many portraits and self-portraits that were Inspired by Mexico’s popular culture and folk art. Through her art, she was able to question identity, postcolonialism, gender, class, and race in Mexican society. has Often described as a surrealist or magical realist, many of her paintings contain strong autobiographical elements. A master at mixing realism with fantastical elements, she was also involved in the post-revolutionary Mexicayotl movement that sought to create a Mexican identity.

The Early Life of Frida Kahlo

Born to a German father and Mexican mestiza mother, Kahlo spent most of her childhood and adult life at La Casa Azul, her family home in the neighborhood of Coyoacán in Mexico City. Today, the Frida Kahlo Museum is found in her childhood home that visitors love to explore and learn more about this incredible artist’s life. Kahlo was disabled by polio as a child, but was very intelligent and intended to go to medical school until a traffic accident at age eighteen. Her injuries were severe and contributed to serious pain and continued health issues. While she recovered from the accident, she started painting again and her passion for art was reignited.

Artistic Development and Diego Rivera

Kahlo joined the Mexican Communist Party in 1927 where she met fellow Mexican artist Diego Rivera. The two quickly fell in love and married a year later in 1928. They spent the late 1920’s and early 1930’s travelling throughout Mexico and the United States as Kahlo continued to paint and develop her artistic style. Inspired by Mexican folk culture, the majority of her paintings were small self-portraits that blended pre-Columbian and Catholic beliefs. Kahlo’s first solo exhibition was held in 1938 in New York at the Julien Levy Gallery thanks to the support of surrealist artist André Breton who was impressed by her talent.

Kahlo Recognized by Art Historians

Kahlo’s fame as an artist didn’t occur until the late 1970’s when her work drew the attention of art historians and political activists. Later, in the early 1990’s she had become an important figure in art history and icon for Chicanos, feminists and the LGBT movement. Kahlo’s work is celebrated internationally as a unique representation of Mexican national and indigenous traditions that art lovers appreciate and admire. Many people say that Kahlo’s depiction of the female experience and form is truly genius.

Villa La Estancia residents in Riviera Nayarit should clear their schedule to head to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens on Saturday, Nov. 1st. Come celebrate the work and life of Frida Kahlo, and spend a day enjoying the beauty of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. The Vallarta Botanical Gardens have numerous observation trails to explore as well, the most visited public orchid collection in Mexico, and is home to a vast diversity of Mexican plant species. Villa La Estancia homeowners should not miss the “Spirit of Frida”, an exciting cultural event at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens on November 1st.

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

Visit the Maritime Museum in Puerto Vallarta

The fascinating Puerto Vallarta Naval Museum and Naval Historical Center aims to exhibit and preserve Mexico’s rich culture and history. Since its opening in 2006, it has devoted itself to educating visitors on the wide-reaching positive effects of Mexico’s Navy on this country. You can find this great historical venue right next to Los Arcos on Puerto Vallarta’s famous Malecon boardwalk. The colonial-style building also once served as the Port Authority office, the local Navy Headquarters, and the Navy Hospital in the past. Are you a Villa La Estancia homeowner in Riviera Nayarit and want to head down to PV for the day? If so, escape from the sun’s hot rays, and go explore this great historical place and the nautical treats it offers.

Mexico and Its Maritime History

The museum will take you as far back as pre-hispanic times when Mexico’s maritime history began. You can learn more about Puerto Vallarta and its rich past as a port city. The exhibits include the city’s former encounters with the Nao ships which came here all the way from China. The museum also highlights important history on the port’s trade with other ports, documented sea journeys, and an account on how the bay was defended during wartime. There are also five exhibition rooms inside the museum that display amazing artifacts that belong to its permanent collections of maps, photos, paintings, and documents. You will discover a deeper understanding of how the naval history of Mexico has evolved through time. There are displays of a variety of naval uniforms used by sailors throughout the years which seem to come alive as you tour the museum.

Real-life Navigation Exhibitions

Your dream to become one with the seas will become reality as you explore the detailed scale models of old and modern vessels, as well as the forts and topographic layout of Mexico’s prominent ports. Sailing the open seas will be more exciting as you watch the museum’s audio-visual exhibitions and a special five-screen navigation simulator. You get a chance to see what it feels like to maneuver a large ship across different environments and conditions. The navigation instruments and charts on display will also awaken the sailor spirit within you.

One of Mexico’s most important historical events occurred on April 21, 1914, when a group of young men defended the port of Veracruz against the naval school during the second North American Intervention. You will also explore the long-held custom of how sailors kept themselves entertained while at sea. They placed terrifying, mythological creatures within navigation charts to give fellow sailors a good natured scare and to keep everyone alert.

Times to Visit

Villa La Estancia homeowners, residents and visitors may visit this great historical spot throughout the year and at a fraction of the cost. Its entrance fee is only 45 pesos for general admission and 30 pesos for children, students, teachers, and senior citizens. Persons with disability and children below 6 years of age may enter the museum for free. It is open from Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

Villa La Estancia homeowners should take advantage of the chance to enjoy the nautical and historical experiences found only at the Naval Museum in Puerto Vallarta. Ships ahoy!

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

PV Events in July: Raicero Festival

During the last week of July 2019 is the perfect time to find yourself in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, because the inaugural Raicero Festival will be held on July 26th through July 28th. There will be so many exciting activities that everyone will enjoy. Raices de la Tierra México, a local organization, will be hosting the first 1st Raicero Festival in Puerto Vallarta, and it will be held at the rancho Madre Tierra, which is near the Vista Vallarta Club de Golf. The festival is inspired by natural healing and passion for life, and the Familia Temazcalera is inviting everyone to bring their family and friends to attend this amazing festival to celebrate the rich heritage and diverse ancestry of Mexico. Are you a Puerto Vallarta resident or own a second home in the area? If so, continue to read below to learn about this exciting festival as the Raicero Festival is one of the summer’s best PV events that you won’t want to miss.

PV Events in July: Raicero Festival July 26th – July 28th
One of the most interesting and exciting activities of 2019 in Puerto Vallarta is sure to be the Raicero Festival. There will be a group prayer held and an offering to Mother Water Tatei Haramara, so everyone can thank her for the blessings that we all are receiving in our lives. Also, there will be traditional grandparents sharing their natural medicine expertise that will lead everyone in ancestral songs to bring wellbeing to all and inspire a sense of community in attendees. Temazcales are a spiritual sweat lodge experience, in case you are not familiar with them. There will be workshops available about so visitors can learn more. Temazcal first started during the pre-Hispanic times in Mesoamerica, and lately it has become more popular in Mexico and around the world. The word originated from the Nahuatl word temazcall. In English, it is written in different ways, which include Temescal, temezcal, or temascal. This is the place to try this so you can learn about the mental and physical benefits that temazcal experience will provide.

Ancestral Singing
The festival activities will also include a flower ceremony, Xochil native singing, Danza Mexicana folkloric dance, and of course the temazcal experience. The Guadalajara based band Ampersan will be playing live traditional Mexican music that centers on using cultural exchanges and field work while blending sound experimentation with contemporary music. They will be performing each night during the Raramaro Haramara Festival at Rancho Madre Tierra in Puerto Vallarta. You can purchase your tickets ahead of time and save money while reserving your spot for $500 pesos, or you can also purchase your tickets the day of the Raicero Festival for $600 pesos. There is no fee for children 12 years and younger to attend the festival. For the 1st Raicero Festival, the entry fee will include three meals on Saturday, two meals on Sunday, camping area access, temazcal entry, workshops and talks, and seeing the band Ampersan perform live. What more can you ask for?

Visitors and residents in Puerto Vallarta will want to attend one of the best PV events this July. The Raicero Festival will be held on July 26th through July 28th. You can contact 322-274-2325 for more information, or send a Facebook message to the Temazcal Xochipilli Vallarta Facebook page! Don’t miss this exciting event happening now in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

by VLEAdminRE,
Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Mango Lover? Don’t Miss the Mango Festival in PV

Villa La Estancia residents take note! The 3rd edition of the PV Mango Festival is scheduled for this weekend on Saturday, July 6th at 4:00pm down in Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town at the Lázaro Cárdenas Park. This annual event is organized by the Instituto Vallartense de Cultura y el Comité de Ciudades Hermanas Highland Park and is open to the public. You can purchase 25 pesos tickets that are used to buy food and drinks in a typical Mexican “kermés” style. While it is hard to leave the comfort of your amazing home in paradise at Villa La Estancia, we recommend you get out and about and visit this year’s Mango Festival on Saturday, July 6th in Puerto Vallarta. You won’t regret it!

Don’t Miss the Mango Festival in PV!
Almost everyone can agree that mangoes are one of the most delicious fruits as their sweet and juicy flavor is almost impossible to resist. Villa La Estancia residents need to mark their calendars for Saturday, July 6th to make sure they attend the Mango Festival in Old Town Vallarta’s Lázaro Cárdenas Park. Get ready to sink your teeth into a bevy of delicious mango inspired treats. Lázaro Cárdenas Park is conveniently located just a block inland from the Malecon boardwalk and Los Muertos beach. Bring along the whole family and your sweet tooth! Attendees will enjoy a nice variety of mango based food and drink offerings, and there will be live entertainment on hand to keep the party going all evening long.

Mexico is 2nd Largest Exporter of Mangoes
Did you know that Mexico is the 2nd largest exporter of mangoes in the world after China? Mangoes are originally from India, and first arrived in Mexico in the late 1700’s when Spanish traders brought them over from India. Mangoes thrive in warm climates, therefore they subsequently flourished and today are one of the most popular fruits in the country. These days, mangoes are grown in many states in Mexico including Sinaloa, Nayarit, Jalisco, Michoacán, Veracruz and Chiapas.

Help Support Local Charities
Not just fun festival for the public, charitable hearts will love that money raised from the event is set to benefit 3 cultural and community projects in the area including DesembocArte, Los Fridos and the local Rotary Club. DesembocArte is a children’s art workshop focused on supporting the arts for children from the neighborhood of La Desembocada. Local children’s artwork will be featured at the Mango Festival as well. Los Fridos is an organization that teaches art and music to children via hands on training activities. Last but not least, the Rotary Club helps local patients who need financial assistance to purchase leg prosthesis. They also help provide medical, dental and ophthalmological care for outlying neighborhoods in need. Villa La Estancia homeowners should come down and support these causes by attending this weekend’s Mango Festival.

Are you a Villa La Estancia resident? If so, make sure to attend this weekend’s 3rd annual Puerto Vallarta Mango Festival on Saturday, July 6th, 2019 starting at 4pm. It will be a sweet event that the whole family!

See more things to do in Puerto Vallarta:

Golf, Golf and More Golf in Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit

Puerto Vallarta’s Local Art Galleries

Puerto Vallarta Icons – the New Pier

Puerto Vallarta: Dream Vacation Homes

by VLEAdminRE,