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!

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.

Why Own a Residence with 5-Star hotel Services?

Why Own a Residence with 5-Star hotel Services? The benefits of owning a second home in the sunshine are many, but did you know that there are specific benefits which come with homes on hotel grounds? At the Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit or Cabo San Lucas, when you opt to purchase real estate you also have access to all of the resorts’ 5-star amenities and services. This means that you can use the spa, the tennis courts, the pool, and make use of the activities program if you wish!

We’ve listed below the benefits you get when you own a residence with 5-star hotel services:

Guaranteed Quality

Not only do you get the familiar feeling of home when you return to a vacation property, but you have the same quality assurances as you would if you were staying with the hotel itself. You can expect the best in terms of architectural design, construction, finishings and fittings, furnishings, and appliances
 and, of course, the very best service from the staff on site!

VIP Living

When you buy a property from a 5-star hotel you’re buying into a lifestyle which will see you being treated like a VIP every day of your stay. When you stay at your home at Villa La Estancia, the staff will know your name and can be called upon to help with anything you may require (even if you’re living here full time!). It’s like an endless, luxury vacation.

Professional Homeowners Association

Amongst the other benefits of the 5-star services and amenities, you will have access to is the fact that you will be represented by a team of professionals. They will make sure that your voice as a homeowner is heard, and to ensure that you can be certain of the standards you will experience in both common areas and your home.

Luxury pools and beach with waiter service

That’s right when you own a residence that has hotel services you can enjoy poolside waiter service and snacks at one of the resort’s pools, and you can even have waiter service while you’re on the beach!

Spa, Gym and tennis courts

When you own a residence with hotel services you don’t need to worry about joining a fitness club or gym; you can make use of the basketball and squash courts, the pools, and the gym for free!

Room service and private chef

What might surprise you, however, is that you can also enjoy room service as an owner! If that doesn’t take your fancy, or you have a special event to celebrate, you can also hire the hotels private chef to make you a special meal.

Activities

The resorts activities program is open to owners and guests alike.

24-Hour Security

You need never worry about your property or safety; this area is within a gated community with 24-hour security.

If you want information about how to own a residence with 5-Star hotel services at Villa La Estancia please call:
Villa La Estancia Cabo – 1 877 499 1901
Villa La Estancia Riviera Nayarit – 1 866 843 7005

Famous Past Puerto Vallarta Residents: Burton and Taylor

The modern world culture may have been in a frenzy over following the relationship of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt (when the relationship was going well), but there were other famous and powerful couples that also captivated us in the media. Film legends Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor were probably one of the first relationships we followed through the media. Their dramatic, scandal-filled romance played out before our eyes through media coverage as the couple fell in love with Puerto Vallarta while falling in love with each other. The publicity that their romance brought to Puerto Vallarta made a once quiet little town a thriving tourist spot.

Famous Past Puerto Vallarta Residents: Burton and Taylor

When Burton and Taylor met on the set of Cleopatra, these icons saw that they had something special even though they were both still married to other people at the time. When Burton got the acting deal in The Night of the Iguana by director John Huston, he had to go to Puerto Vallarta. He saw to it that Taylor was with him. During the filming Burton took a boat each day from Puerto Vallarta to the movie set in Mismaloya, a location south of Puerto Vallarta and near the landmark called Los Arcos.

Burton and Taylor’s Lover’s Arch

Burton seemed to love the view of downtown Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay when he built a home in Puerto Vallarta’s Gringo Gulch neighborhood. Burton felt that renting the home across the street, Casa Kimberley, seemed perfect for Taylor. Burton had the Lover’s Arch built, which was a bridge that connected his property to hers that is still there now. This bridge allowed them to visit each other while maintaining their independence in a way that was private. It also provided a fast way to depart whenever they had their epic arguments.

Crazy about Puerto Vallarta

The passion they had for each other soon spilled over to a love for Puerto Vallarta. It started with Taylor’s love for Casa Kimberley, which was a gift from Burton for her birthday, and the influence of their romance conducted within the seaside town changed the once quiet town into a popular travel destination.

Even after their second marriage ended in divorce, their passion for Puerto Vallarta continued and since then the whole of Banderas Bay has become one of the world’s most sought after vacation and residential spots.

Mexican Benefits for Foreigners Over 60

With more retirees moving to Mexico than ever before, there has never been a better time to explore all of the different ways you can save money upon relocating to this charming and beautiful country.  Living costs in Mexico are much more affordable than those in the United States, Canada and Europe, making it an appealing place to relocate upon retirement.  What’s more, you can take advantage of even more discounts with these Mexican Benefits for Foreigners over 60.

When you enroll for the INAPAM (Instituto Nacional para las Perso1nas Adultas Mayores) discount card, you can enjoy impressive discounts on an incredible range of goods and services, which can help you stretch your retirement money even further.  The process to apply for the card is easy, and it also happens to be free.  Once you have your discount card in hand, you will be able to present it to countless businesses.  Here is just a sampling of the services you can enjoy discounts on:

Food & Groceries

As a daily expense, you can save big at specialty food shops, grocery chains and convenience stores.

Dining Out

From diners to cafes, as well as restaurant chains, you can save when you go out to eat. 

Healthcare

Although medication already costs far less in Mexico than in countries like the U.S., seniors can receive additional discounts at many pharmacies.  Several doctors, dentists and medical specialists also offer discounts to card holding seniors.   

Culture

You can find discounts at a variety of art galleries, museums, archaeology parks and bookstores. 

Travel & Leisure

Many travel agencies and hotels found throughout Mexico provide discounts for seniors.  

Party Venues

It is common for festivity halls (salon de fiestas) to offer discounts to seniors who are planning a party at their facility. 

Transportation

Discounts on fares are provided by several airlines, bus companies and sometimes even local taxis.

Discount on Property Taxes and Water Bills

Seniors can receive a discount on their annual property taxes (Predial) as well as their water bills in some municipalities.  

Other Discounts

While discounts for seniors vary between businesses and are not always offered, remember to always present your card and ask just in case.  You will find discounts at a wide range of businesses including accountants, legal firms, construction companies, hardware stores, electricians, locksmiths, plumbers, car service and repair centers, printers, dry cleaners, veterinary services, florists, art stores, jewelry shops, beauty salons, clothing stores and so much more.

The original article can be found at Mexperience:

https://www.mexperience.com/inapam-mexicos-discount-card-for-seniors/

Recommended articles: 

World’s Best Places to Retire – Mexico is No. 1

Why Nuevo Vallarta is Great for Retirement

 

 

Checklist for Relocating to Mexico

Relocating to Mexico, or to anywhere in the world for that matter, is an exciting yet complex step. You will find there are many things you need to organize on both sides of your move to make sure that everything runs smoothly while relocating to Mexico.

There are dozens of reasons for relocating to Mexico: great opportunities, adventure, fantastic weather, the chance to expand your linguistic and cultural horizons, and, of course, the delicious food. But, now that you’ve decided to make the move
 do you know how to go about making it happen smoothly? With so many things to do, so much to consider before relocating to Mexico it can be very overwhelming. Here are some of the most essential things to consider when you’re making this big move to Mexico.

Do you have all your documents in check?

It’s so key that you make sure that you, and everyone in your family relocating to Mexico with you, have a current passport, and that you have applied for all the appropriate visas to live and work in Mexico. If you need to, you should contact your local Mexican consulate for any of the forms you will need to complete, and to pay any fees that are required. You should also gather together any important documents you wish to take: birth certificate, marriage certificates, and diplomas should be gathered up and kept safe. You may wish to have them all apostilled before relocating to Mexico.

Have you made a list of what to take?

Not everyone is a “list person” but when relocating to Mexico a list will come in handy to help you decide what to take with your. What items you will take with your to Mexico really depends on you as a person, and your personal circumstances. If you don’t see relocating to Mexico as a permanent or long-term move you might wish to leave some of the larger items (furnishings etc) behind in storage and take only the essentials (like clothes) with you. After all you will find plenty of furnished rentals for grabs in Mexico, and you can always purchase some items when you get there. If you do leave your larger items in storage you can always have them sent at a later date when you’ve settled in. On the other hand, if you’re sure that this is it you may want to get it all over with in one go, and as such a professional moving company which specializes in long-distances should be your priority.

Do you want to take your car with you to Mexico?

If you live in the Americas already and have a vehicle you’re in a good position of being able to bring your car with you if you wish to. You should think about whether you wish to sell, store, or bring your car, and this, once again, will depend really on you and how permanent you see your move being. If you intend to drive to your destination with some of your belongings you should make sure that your car is serviced and in top condition before taking such a long journey. You will also need to apply for a special permit for your car, which is only valid while you are in the country as long as you current visa is valid.

How will you arrive?

If you cannot drive or do not wish to, then flying will be the quickest way when relocating to Mexico, although you may find you are paying high fees for your excess baggage.

Where will you live when you first arrive?

Firstly, you’ll need to deal with your current housing. This means giving notice that you’re leaving if you’re in rented accommodation, or deciding what to do with your home (if you own it). For homeowners there is always the option of renting your house out to secure extra income, but you can also sell it or leave it vacant. As soon as you know when you’ll be moving you should begin to look for accommodation in your destination. Renting is perhaps the best option when first relocating to Mexico so that you can get to know the areas where you may wish to purchase real estate once you are settled.

What do you have planned for your children?

If you’re bringing kids on this move you’ll definitely want to look into the best schools, maybe even private schools, and plan some time to tour a few when you arrive so that you can decide which best fits your family. Before relocating to Mexico, you will need to arrange for their last day of school (if its mid-term), and pick up their academic transcripts/report cards. Make sure you know what official paperwork you will need.

Deciding whether to bring your pets

Taking your beloved family pet is less hassle than you might think; you really only need to ensure they have the necessary shots and a certificate from a licensed vet. Some more unusual animals may require permits, however, so look into that before relocating to Mexico with your pet tarantula.

Are all your finances in order?

You should first of all find out if any of the banks in Mexico are affiliated with your own bank; this can help you to avoid ATM fees at their machines. You might also consider simplifying your finances by closing bank and savings accounts, and culling unnecessary credit cards. Make sure you have online accounts for all your banking needs and any gadgets that you need for logging in securely while living in Mexico.

Have you tie up all loose ends?

Make sure all pending bills are paid, and that your memberships, subscriptions, and unneeded services are cancelled before you leave for Mexico.

Related notes: Relocation to Mexico – Coping with Missing your Family

Get more recommendations in our FAQ section.