Riviera Nayarit Awarded Safe Travel Stamp

Riviera Nayarit was one of the first locations in Mexico to receive the Safe Travel Stamp. Granted by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the WTTC is an organization that recognizes the proper implementation of updated health and hygiene protocols recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). In addition to information from WHO, the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has set forth recommendations regarding business operations post-COVID. At Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit, we are ready to welcome guests back to the resort. We also have beachfront residences for sale if you want a dream second home in Mexico. Keep reading below to learn more about Riviera Nayarit receiving the Safe Travel Stamp, and how a vacation home in Mexico is a wise choice.

Puerto Vallarta Also Receives Safe Travel Stamp

In Mexico, many precautions and regulations were taken such as closing resorts, beaches and popular tourist landmarks. These measures were designed to flatten the curve and reduce the risk of illness transmission. Right now, businesses are starting to reopen their doors after temporarily closing during the peak of the COVID-19 and coronavirus crisis. The World Tourism Organization and more than 200 travel companies created the Safe Travel Stamp to help individuals decide where they can safely vacation. The Safe Travel Stamp was created to help travelers have confidence to safely visit certain tourist destinations again. With updated health and safety standards in place to keep staff and visitors safe, Puerto Vallarta Jalisco is proud to be considered safe for travel.

Riviera Nayarit

Likewise, Riviera Nayarit has also received the Safe Travels Stamp granted by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Home to the upscale beach neighborhood of Nuevo Vallarta, the area has luxury resorts that tourists love to visit. The local Nayarit government announced the gradual reopening of all hotels and motels on June 15th 2020. During this transitional time, they are carefully monitoring the success of reopening. To start, area resorts plan to initially operate at 30% of their capacity. If all goes well, they will continue to increase their capacity and adjust as needed. Currently, Mexican destinations with the Safe Travels Stamp also include Jalisco, Baja California Sur, Mexican Caribbean (Cancun, Riviera Maya and Grupo Xcaret, Riviera Nayarit and Yucatan.

safe travel stamp villa la estancia riviera nayarit

Mexico’s Rich Heritage & Culture

Mexico has a rich heritage and culture that makes it a top tourist destination. The neighboring state of Jalisco is famous for tequila and mariachi, and world-class beach destination Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta has old town charm, spectacular beaches, endless outdoor activities, gourmet restaurants and world class shopping. Businesses are making sure to follow strict protocol to ensure the health and safety of visitors and workers during the gradual reopening. However, travelers should always take care to adhere to personal health and hygiene practices including regularly washing hands, using facemasks in public areas, and avoiding crowded spaces.

If you want to get away to Mexico for a safe and fun vacation, consider the Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit and Cabo San Lucas. Our modern hotel-condo concept properties also have a limited number of luxury beachfront residences for sale. We offer resort guests and homeowners world class amenities, elegant accommodations, and VIP services. For individuals that want a dream second home in Mexico, Villa La Estancia is a top choice. Even the discerning travelers will be thrilled with the quality of a stay or beachfront residence purchase at Villa La Estancia. Who knows, it could even turn out to be your dream home in Mexico. Ready to learn more? If so, contact us at Villa La Estancia today. Don’t forget to ask about the Try and Buy program so you can test out second home ownership in Mexico before you invest. Life is short, so seize the moment!

Must read: Villa la Estancia Riviera Nayarit Earns WTTC Safe Travels Stamp

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

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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Best Destination in 2019: Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

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

Best Destination in 2019: PV and Riviera Nayarit

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

Apple Vacations – America’s Favorite Vacation Company

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

Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit – Tourism is Increasing

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

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

 

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.

Don’t Miss PV Restaurant Week Going on Now!

In Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, it is time once again to treat yourself to delicious cuisine because Vallarta Lifestyle’s Restaurant Week 2019 is back and going on right now! With over 60 local restaurants participating, this is an exciting annual gastronomic event that shouldn’t be missed. During the course of three weeks between May 15th and June 10th, local residents and visitors should take the experience PV Restaurant Week. Take advantage of this opportunity to experience some of the area’s most incredible restaurants that will have special 3-course menus at discounted prices. Do you live in Banderas Bay at Villa La Estancia in Nuevo Vallarta? If so, keep reading below to learn more about the Vallarta Lifestyle’s Restaurant Week 2019, and how you can experience some of Puerto Vallarta’s growing culinary scene at its best!

PV Restaurant Week 2019

Inspired by Restaurants Weeks held around the world by influential fine dining destinations, the PV Restaurant Week has been occurring annually for the past 14 years. Since 2005, Vallarta Lifestyle’s Restaurant Week has thrilled local Puerto Vallarta residents and visitors by providing the opportunity to feast at some of the most coveted restaurants in the area. Participating establishments create special Restaurant Week three-course menus that have three options available for each course. In addition to the amazing food, prices are often discounted up to 50% off regular priced selections making it is a great way to take advantage of the promotions and dine at the nicest restaurants around Banderas Bay. In fact, PV Restaurant Week has become so popular that many individuals plan ahead to visit Puerto Vallarta during the annual festival. Are you a Villa La Estancia resident with a second home in Riviera Nayarit? If so, make sure you don’t miss this exciting and innovative culinary event.

Participating Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit Restaurants

This year, there are over 60 restaurants in Banderas Bay participating including Amadeo’s Bistró, Archie’s Wok, Azafrán, Barcelona Tapas, Barrio Bistro, Bistro Limon, Bistro Organico at Cielo Rojo, Bistro Teresa, Blanca Blue at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, Boccon di Vino, Boqueria Hidalgo, Cafe des Artistes, Coco Tropical, Daiquiri Dick’s, Di Vino Dante, Eclecticos Restaurante & Bar, El Arrayan, El Dorado, El Patron Viva Vallarta, Eugenia, Gaviotas, Hacienda San Angel Gourmet, ICU, Joe Jack’s Fish Shack, Kaiser Maximilian Restaurant & Cafe, La Cappella, La Cigale French Bistro, La Leche, La Palapa, Layla’s Restaurante, Le Bistro, Le Kliff, Lobster Paradise, Lupita Mexican & Seafood, Mark’s Bar & Grill, Merida Grill, Mikado, Nicksan, No Way Jose Restaurant Bar, Ocean Grill, Ookii Sushi, Oso’s Fish Market Restaurant, Pal’Mar Seafood & Grill Garage, Pezlimon, Pizzeria La Dolce, Porto Bello, River Cafe, Sapori Di Sicilia, Seasons PV, Serrano’s Meat House, Si Señor Beach, Sonora House, Spice Market, The Blue Shrimp, The Iguana, Tintoque, Trio Restaurant Bar Cafe, Tuna Blanca, Umai, Venazu, and Vitea Oceanfront Bistro.

With special prices and incredible selections, Banderas Bay residents simply can’t miss their chance to dine at some of the best area restaurants during Vallarta Lifestyle’s Restaurant Week 2019. This exciting event is going on right now so make sure you try as many restaurants as you can. Which one was your favorite and why?

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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.

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Vallarta Botanical Gardens January 2019: Chocolate & Vanilla Festival

Who doesn’t appreciate delicious chocolate and vanilla? Chocolate and vanilla are important parts of Mexican food culture and history, and these delights are being celebrated on January 11th, 2019 at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Located just 20 minutes south of Old Town Vallarta, plan a day to reconnect with nature and enjoy a sensory-filled day of tastings, educational talks and so much more. Continue reading below about the Chocolate and Vanilla Festival that will take place soon at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens.

Vallarta Botanical Gardens: History and Admission

Established in 2004, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens first opened its doors to the public in 2005. With a focus on propagation, study, discovery, conservation, and display of Mexican native plants, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens is a must do activity in Puerto Vallarta. Both Puerto Vallarta’s residents and visitors will enjoy learning and seeing Mexican orchids and other plants that are native to the region. Entry for adults costs just $200 pesos which is around $10 USD with the current exchange rate, and kids under 4 years old get in free. As a small non-profit that relies heavily on memberships and donations to operate, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens does not allow outside food or beverages on the property. If you’re in the mood for a bite, there is an excellent restaurant on the property called Hacienda de Oro Restaurant. The sales from the restaurant help to maintain general operations at the Botanical Gardens.

January 11th, 2019: Chocolate and Vanilla Festival

Guaranteed to be an exciting day for the whole family, the Chocolate and Vanilla Festival will be held from 10am to 5pm on January 11, 2019. The Vallarta Botanical Gardens will feature a variety of scrumptious vanilla and chocolate tastings that will tantalize your taste buds. In addition to delicious tastings, visitors will learn about the history of Mexican chocolate and vanilla. Want to take a treat back home or a gift for friends or family? There will be homemade Mexican chocolate for sale that is sure to impress. Visitors at the Chocolate and Vanilla Festival will also be treated to an energetic performance by local folkloric dancers.

Sunscreen & Insect Repellent

Not only people love the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Bugs and insects also adore the flowers and plants so make sure to come prepared with insect repellent to avoid getting insect bites. If you come unprepared, check at the ticket booth where you can purchase natural insect repellent. In addition to insects, the Vallarta sun is quite strong even during winter months so make sure to wear or bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. In the mood for a refreshing dip in a freshwater river? Head down to the small river that runs along the lower portion of the property where you can wade along the sandy banks or jump in to cool off.

Vanilla and chocolate lovers need to mark their calendars for January 11th, 2019 so they can experience the natural beauty of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Located just south of Puerto Vallarta, the Chocolate and Vanilla Festival will be a wonderful experience for everyone. We hope to see you there!

Vallarta Botanical Gardens Location:

Carretera Barra De Navidad Km. 24, Las Juntas y los Veranos,

C.P. 48447 Cabo Corrientes, Jal. Tel. +52 322 223 6182

Banderas Bay Real Estate – Paradise Awaits

In life, there is never a sure thing when it comes to investments. However, real estate has traditionally been a solid way to secure financial growth over time. Even with the peaks and lows of property values, the general trend is on the up and up. And the added benefit is that you get to enjoy your investment and use it in the meantime as your value increases. Want to learn more about Banderas Bay real estate? Banderas Bay is the bay that is home to Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding towns and is located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico in an ideal location that is protected by the Sierra Madre Mountain range. Read below to learn more about Banderas Bay real estate, and how Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit has everything you are looking for and more.

Banderas Bay Real Estate – Dream Location

Investing in Banderas Bay Real estate offers more than just a way to see your money grow over time. You are always investing in a vacation home (or full time home if you move to the area), where you can make lasting memories with your friends and family. With Banderas Bay real estate, you are setting up roots in a climate that has ideal weather year round. No more snow and freezing temperatures for you! As a result, even your health will likely improve as you enjoy the relaxing moments of watching the waves crash and the smell of the salty ocean breeze. There is a large expat community in Banderas Bay and there are many activities and events happening all year long. Great restaurants, shopping, outdoor activities, seasonal whale watching, theatre and cultural festivals are always on the calendar so you will never run out of something to do. It’s a great place to live, and a great place to have family and friends come visit you. It’s so easy to live life and entertain in Banderas Bay!

Benefits of Banderas Bay Real Estate

In addition to enjoying your second home or vacation home with your friends and family, owning Banderas Bay Real Estate is a great way to earn added income as a vacation rental. Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations, and tourism is on the rise. As a result, more and more visitors will be looking for accommodation for their vacations. If you rent out your home when you are not using it, this is a great way to receive additional income to help maintain your Puerto Vallarta lifestyle. Worried you won’t have enough time to deal with renting out your home or the upkeep it requires? Then you should consider the newer concept of condo-hotels where private residences are sold that are part of a condo-hotel. In addition to enjoying your second home, you and your potential renters will have access to luxurious amenities and services not found at private homes or standard condos. Another great option for Banderas Bay real estate is the choice to purchase a fractional ownership property. You get all the perks of enjoying your second home with even less responsibility and financial investment.

Prime Beachfront Banderas Real Estate: Villa La Estancia

One of the best options for Banderas Bay Real Estate is the award winning Villa La Estancia. Situated just north of Puerto Vallarta in the quiet neighborhood of Nuevo Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit, Villa La Estancia offers both full or fractional ownership and prime beachfront residences. Villa La Estancia residences are also known as villas, and are constructed of the highest quality materials and high end finishes. Villa La Estancia units are elegantly decorated and come with all the bells and whistles so all you have to bring is your suitcase! In addition to enjoying those mesmerizing ocean views, home ownership at Villa La Estancia gives you access to onsite gourmet dining and luxury amenities including multiple pools, jacuzzis, spa, and a well equipped gym. Visit Villa La Estancia’s website today at https://www.villalaestanciarealestate.com/ to learn more and see for yourself what living the Puerto Vallarta lifestyle is all about. All of this and more could be yours nestled amongst a beautiful natural setting and quiet surroundings.

The best Banderas Bay real estate is found at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit. Villa La Estancia Riviera Nayarit is a solid real estate investment that you can enjoy now and for yours to come!

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Read this before you Buy Real Estate in Banderas Bay

If you are planning on purchasing real estate in Banderas Bay, there are a number of procedures and considerations that are worth reading up on to ensure a smooth experience. The following are some of the things you should know before you buy real estate in Banderas Bay.

Closing process when you buy real estate in Banderas Bay

The closing process to buy real estate in Banderas Bay is a little lengthy. It takes between 30-45 days to ensure all of your paperwork and escrow accounts are set up. The process must be carried out by a local public notary in Banderas Bay. The buyer pays the closing costs while the seller pays the capital gains taxes and real estate fees. Buyers and sellers do not need to be present at closing because both can be represented by their Sales Associate via a power of attorney.

Property Taxes for real estate in Banderas Bay

You can expect very low property taxes compared to USA and Canada when you buy real estate in Banderas Bay. The rate is usually around 0.08% of the assessed value and is known as ‘Predial’ in Spanish. House taxes should be paid yearly.

Insurance

Mexico has all the needed insurance for your property including liability, damage, property, and earthquake insurances. These are all available at low costs.

Property Managers

After you have bought a property in Banderas Bay, you might want to choose a property manager to look after your place. Especially if you will be away from your home for any length of time. As a second home homeowner in Banderas Bay, considering a property management company will be necessary, unless you have friends or family who can help you out.

Financing

Real estate transactions in Mexico are usually paid in full. Mortgages for foreigners are only available if you are a permanent resident working and paying taxes in Mexico. If you need extra financial aid, you might want to consider some sources back home like equity loans, second mortgages, personal lines of credit, among others. Otherwise, you will be expected to pay in full.

Rental Potential

One of the advantages, when you buy real estate in Banderas Bay, is that you can expect good rental potential. Quality properties in Banderas Bay are competitively priced. You can expect to rent your property as well as good hotels with an average occupancy of 60-80% annually. Take note that Banderas Bay enjoys a very strong rental market for both homes and condos.

Equity

Short-term property speculation is not a concept readily applied to the Mexican real estate market; but if you own in the most desired tourist areas, you will certainly see a rise in property values. Most buyers who have purchased real estate in Banderas Bay usually want to enjoy their property as a vacation home.

Are you getting a good deal?

Definitely yes! When you compare what your money could buy, in relative terms, with the housing market outside of Banderas Bay, you can assure of getting a good deal. Make sure you have considered the following factors like local beauty, ambiance, safety, cost of living, and life goals.

Maintenance

Don’t forget to calculate a budget to maintain your property in Banderas Bay. You should consider general wear and tear, roof tiles and plumbing etc. You also need to pay any maintenance fees on common areas, if applicable. Common area maintenance and security is usually handled by each building’s Condominium Owners Association.

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