things to do in puerto vallarta

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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.

 

Must read:

The Botanical Gardens of Puerto Vallarta

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

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 AndrĂ© 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,
FAQ, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Full Ownership, Real Estate, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Visit Pueblo Magico Sayulita

Are you living in Puerto Vallarta or hope to one day? There is so much to do in PV with its miles of gorgeous beaches, hip gastronomy culture and welcoming locals. It is easy to see why Puerto Vallarta is a top vacation destination and has a large expat community as well. Next time your find yourself in Puerto Vallarta on vacation, or if you live in Riviera Nayarit at Villa La Estancia, we recommend you take a day trip to Sayulita, a “Pueblo Magico” town just 45 minutes north of town. In 2015, this charming and quaint town was designated as a Pueblo Magico due to the town’s rich history and charm that enchants visitors. A day trip from PV to Sayulita will surely be a great way to enjoy the best of Mexico. Keep reading below to find out more about Sayulita, a Pueblo Magico that you have to see for yourself.

Sayulita is a Pueblo Magico

Sayulita is situated on the Pacific Coast of Mexico about 45 minutes of Puerto Vallarta, and only about a half hour north of Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit. Sayulita is popular with surfers and vacationers who are mesmerized by the town’s relaxed vibe and tons of great shops, restaurants and bars. Sayulita was designated as a Pueblo Magico (which means “Magic Town” in English) back in September 2015. The Mexico Tourism Board decides which towns are worth of this special designation. In order to be declared a Pueblo Magico, they must meet three requirements. To begin with, the architecture should be very pleasing. The balconies, facades, and roofs should all be painted the same color tone chosen from a list of seven approved colors that the National Institute of Anthropology and History selected. Secondly, the town, city, or village should have their own unique cultural identity that shows the traditional history. Last, there should be a village square or one major attraction that stands out above against other towns, cities, and villages.

Popular Beaches in Sayulita

There are a couple popular beaches in Sayulita where visitors will enjoy walking along the beach. Surfers especially love surfing at the beaches in Sayulita which are known for nice swells due to its open ocean location. If you want to go surfing, you can even rent a surfboard for the day right on the beach. If you aren’t a surer, you can try paddle boarding and paddle boards are available for rent on the beach as well. The Sayulita Beach does receive a high volume of visitors, so if you love people watching, you will have a great time. If you prefer a less crowded beach, then you should walk to the Los Muertos Beach. In order to reach Los Muertos Beach, you will need to walk past the yellow Villa Amor hotel, then you will walk up the hill past the graveyard until you reach the tranquil beach. Los Muerto Beach is ideal for swimming, and plan ahead to bring snacks, drinks, and a shade umbrella since there are no stores or restaurants.

Colorful Central Plaza

When you arrive in Sayulita, head to the central plaza that has been vibrantly decorated in colorful huichol art hanging high above the plaza. There is a lovely gazebo in the middle of the plaza that is a great spot for picture taking. Love art? Sayulita has tons of fine art galleries located in and around the plaza. Why not check out locally made Huichol handcrafts or maybe you can find the perfect piece of art for your home. Getting hungry? Sayulita has tons of great restaurants that range from fine dining to casual. If you are in the mood for sushi, pizza, tacos, or a five-course gourmet meal, you will have no trouble satisfying your taste buds. If you have room, try some homemade ice cream for dessert, too.

Residents at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit should take time to day trip to Sayulita, a Pueblo Magico town that has charm to spare. A day trip to Sayulita is a great reminder why the beachfront residences at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit make a dream vacation home or second home in paradise.

by VLEAdminRE,
Cabo San Lucas, Destinations, Fractional Vacation Ownership, Real Estate, Residences

All About Tacos!

Are you a Villa La Estancia Cabo homeowner loving life at your second home in Mexico? Many expats just like you from around the world are thrilled to purchase a second home in Mexico and soak up the good life. From its delicious food, incredible weather and welcoming locals, it is easy to see why Mexico continues to be a top destination for expats who want to purchase a dream home in paradise. Wondering what kinds of great foods you can enjoy at your second home in Mexico? Mexican tacos are without a doubt one of the easiest and most delicious foods that people love to eat while in Mexico or wherever they may be. Easy on the budget and simple to make, tacos are delicious, too. See below for our 3 top Mexican tacos, and we even included an easy fish taco recipe that you can make at your second home in Mexico, too.

What to Eat at Your Second Home in Mexico:

Beef Carne Asada Tacos
Our top choice for the best tacos to try at your second home in Mexico are beef carne asada tacos. Carne asada tacos are grilled and seasoned beef cooked with spices such as salt, pepper and cumin. You can spice up your taco with toppings such as diced onions, cilantro, and spicy salsa. Want to really make your taco special? Add melted cheese on top for a tasty addition that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Pork Al Pastor Tacos
Our second pick for a great taco is the classic pork al pastor taco. Seasoned shredded pork is served on a corn tortilla and topped with diced onions, cilantro and slices of juicy pineapple. Your taste buds will love the unique blend of savory and sweet flavors. You can even add fresh avocado salsa or a cool and refreshing twist while you enjoy tacos in your second home in Mexico.

Grilled or Battered Fish Tacos
Fish tacos originated in Baja California, Mexico but are now enjoyed in countries all over the world. You can choose from grilled or battered fish, and then add cabbage, lettuce, tomatoes and salsa. Add fresh lime juice on top is for a tangy punch of flavor you will love.

Villa La Estancia Cabo residents and homeowners should try making the below easy Fish Taco recipe at your second home in Mexico.

Simple Fish Taco Recipe:
Sauteé chunks of fresh fish and diced garlic in a few teaspoons of olive oil in a pan on medium heat. Yellowtail or Mahi Mahi are great choices to use.
Season the fish with salt, pepper and lime juice to taste.
Heat up corn or flour tortillas on medium heat, and remember to flip the tortilla back and forth to avoid burning.
Choose from a variety of fresh and healthy toppings including cabbage, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, or even carrots.
Try a simple creamy chipotle sauce topping to make your fish taco even better. Simply mix mayonnaise with a few canned chipotle peppers. It is a great topping that perfectly compliments your fish taco. Squeeze some fresh lime juice on top for just the right amount of zing!

Are you a Villa La Estancia Cabo homeowner living the dream at your beautiful second home in Mexico? If so, why not make our simple fish taco recipe tonight. Mexican tacos are fresh and convenient and sure to please the whole family. Bon appetit!

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 MĂ©xico, 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 LĂĄzaro CĂĄrdenas Park. This annual event is organized by the Instituto Vallartense de Cultura y el ComitĂ© 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 “kermĂ©s” 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,
Riviera Nayarit

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

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

Vallarta Botanical Gardens

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

Bird & Nature Festival Workshops

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

Botanical Gardens Location

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

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

See more: Happy Healthy Lives in Puerto Vallarta

by VLEAdminRE,
Destinations, Residences, Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit Residents: Get to Know PV Street Art

Do you live in Riviera Nayarit and love the peace and quiet that homeowners in the area so enjoy? Riviera Nayarit has miles of beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, and endless outdoor activities to enjoy making it a wonderful place to call home. Are you a proud Villa La Estancia homeowner in Nuevo Vallarta? Such a tranquil and peaceful setting may make it hard for you to even want to leave your beautiful home at homes. However, when you are in the mood to liven up your day, head down to Puerto Vallarta to add some excitement to your life. Coming up soon on March 2nd there is an interesting PV Street Art Stroll you don’t want to miss

  • Puerto Vallarta And Riviera Nayarit: Best of Both Worlds

Nuevo Vallarta residents who live at Villa La Estancia really do have the best of both worlds. They have an incredible high quality home with the best amenities and services around. Surrounded by lush landscaping and endless Banderas Bay views, life at Villa La Estancia is pretty ideal. One great thing about living in Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit is that you can easily head to Puerto Vallarta for the day if you are in the mood for some added excitement. Are you an art lover and always interested in seeing what is new and fresh? If you, you probably already know that Puerto Vallarta has a thriving and interesting art scene that is seeing major growth in recent years. There are lots of upscale art galleries in the downtown art district that are worth a visit. However, did you know that Puerto Vallarta also has beautiful urban graffiti street art that you should definitely check out? Street art is a modern take on what some people view as art. Have you not seen any of the cool street area around town? If not, sign up today for the PV Street Art Stroll that will happen on March 2nd. The event was organized by local art lovers in order to showcase the beautiful murals and street art in the area.

  • Hidden Street Works of Art

Puerto Vallarta is best known as a charming small town that has grown into a modern mix of old and new that is easy to fall in love with. Anyone who walks along the quaint cobblestone streets will start to feel the undeniable magic of Puerto Vallarta. While there are modern developments under construction on many street corners, Old Town is still able to maintain that friendly, small town vibe that we all know and love. With tons of great shops, bars and restaurants in the area, incredible street art is also found in PV and you may not have even known it was there. Have you seen any of the street art for yourself? If not, leave Villa La Estancia for the day and join the PV Street Art Stroll on March 2nd so you too can see the coolest, most colorful street art in the region. Remember, street art is constantly changing so that impressive mural you see today may be gone tomorrow don’t miss out!

  • Massive Murals and Colorful Graffiti

Local residents decided to organize the PV Street Art Stroll to share the incredible street art with visitors and other PV residents. They were able to identify the most efficient and best route to find great street area in the downtown and Old Town areas. On March 2nd at 10 am, attendees will meet up at the main church right off the central plaza, called the Lady of Guadalupe Church. From there, the PV Street Art Stroll will begin its path to view impressive murals around town. The walk will probably last about 2 hours, so make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring along a hat and water, too. Definitely don’t forget your camera so you can take some memorable shots of your favorite street art masterpieces. PV Street art could be here one day, and then gone the next so take it all in as you are literally capturing a moment in time. What a beautiful gift!

Are you ready to leave your oasis at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit for the day, and head PV for the PV Street Art Stroll? The group is limited to only 18 people so visit www.pvstreetart.com right away to secure your spot. Hope to see you there!

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by VLEAdminRE,
Riviera Nayarit

1st Raicilla, Mezcal and Artisanal Beer Festival in Nuevo Vallarta

Take note Riviera Nayarit residents! The 1st Raicilla, Mezcal and Artisanal Beer Festival will be held soon on the weekend of Feb. 15th, 16th & 17th in the marina in Nuevo Vallarta. Events begin at 3pm and last through 10pm each day. Bring your family along and come enjoy a weekend full of flavors, traditional drinks, great music and activities. With more than 40 well known drinks, attendees will love sampling some of the best drinks and food from the region. Read below to learn more about the Raicilla, Mezcal and Artisanal Beer Festival in Nuevo Vallarta conveniently located just minutes from the Villa La Estancia.

What Is Mezcal?

Have you heard about mezcal, but not sure how to tell the difference between tequila and mezcal? Many people associate tequila with mezcal, but there are three key reasons how mezcal is different from tequila. To start with, tequila and mezcal are produced in different states in Mexico although there are a few states that produce both spirits. Mexican law dictates that tequila can only be produced using the blue agave plant. The state of Jalisco is the center of the tequila universe and the quaint town of Tequila is recognized as the birthplace of tequila. Mezcal can be made with up to 30 different varieties of agave and has a different production process that creates a distinctly different flavor. Right now, mezcal is produced in 8 specific regions of Mexico including the states of Oaxaca, Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, San Luis Potosi, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, and Michoacan. The center of the mezcal world is in the state of Oaxaca where up to 80-90% of all mezcal production is found.

Raicilla

Raicilla is similar to tequila and mezcal and is produced in 16 regions throughout the Mexican states of Jalisco and Michoacan. The origins of raicilla come from the maguey lechuguilla plant which is a variety of agave. In 2014, annual raicilla production estimates indicated that 50 thousand liters were distributed among 70 traditional producers. Right now, the areas of Mascota and Cabo Corrientes in Jalisco are the top producers of raicilla. At the Raicilla, Mezcal and Cerveza Artesanal Festival in Nuevo Vallarta, attendees will be able to sample a variety of spirits and learn more about the distinguishing factors between these three enticing elixirs.

Artisanal Beer

Beer lovers will also be pleased to find that craft beers will be showcased at the festival as well. Artisanal or craft beers are beers made without additives, preservatives or pasteurizers. Artisanal beers are essentially alive and an interesting product in that the taste changes every day due to the presence of live yeast. Mexico’s craft beer industry has experienced a boom over the last few years with many new breweries popping up just south of Nuevo Vallarta in the Puerto Vallarta area. Los Muertos Brewing and Monzon Brewery are two choices that locals can visit. At the Raicilla, Mezcal and Cerveza Artesanal Festival in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexican craft beer brewers will be sharing their top beers that are sure to delight.

Come experience a variety of Mexico’s best spirits and beers at the Raicilla, Mezcal and Cerveza Artesanal Festival in the Nuevo Vallarta marina just a stone’s throw away from Villa La Estancia. The weekend of February 16th and 17th from 3pm through 10pm, attendees will get to sample Mexico’s top spirits and enjoy great food as well. Hope to see you there!

See more eventis in Nuevo Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit here.

by VLEAdminRE,