lunes, 4 de abril de 2011

Classified Ads

For Rent

11640


Beautiful Studio for rent in Amapas
Ocean View, terrace, furnished, A/C, kitchen, washer/dryer, cable , internet Walking distance to beach, 5 min from town.
$7,800.00 pesos per month, contact Eduardo Cel. (045) 5518328344

11611
BEAUTIFUL SPACIOUS NEWLY DECORATED 2 bedroom 1 bath apartments with all amenities.
All with gorgeous Ocean View or Mountain views Penthouse 2 bedroom 2 bath upon availability.
Long and short term.
From $6,500 pesos monthly
sorrentovallartapv@hotmail.com


House fully furnished plus TV, one bedroom, sleeps four, English satalite TV, Vonage and Telmex phones, Internet, a/c, washer & dryer, newly renovated, in Romantic Zone, short or long term. 044 322 116 5085.

11694
Casa Alicia located in Fraccionamiento Delfines, Partially furnished, 2 car parking, balcony, rear garden, indoor laundry area, storage, air conditioner in one bedroom and ground level, 3 bedrooms, kitchen with refrigerator, $8000 pesos per month. Phone 22 625 50


 For Sale
For Sale By Auction, 3-Bed/3-Bath Penthouse Corner Unit In Nuevo. Reduced To 399K. Details At Www.Puertovallartarealestateauctions.Com

One bedroom, one bath condo in 6 plex in Bucerias. Canadian owned. 2nd floor w/balcony. A/C 5 min. walk to beach. $150,00000 USD Ricardo (329) 298-1235

11694
Casa Oly, located in Las Gaviotas, 3 bedrooms + studio, 3.5 bathrooms, beautiful garden, parking for 4 cars, land: 639 sq mts, $433,000 USD. Phone 22 6 25 50

11694
Condominium Raul, located in Marbella on the main avenue of Puerto Vallarta , 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, A/C, common swimming pool, security, $110,000 USD. phone 2262552

11694
Condominium Shangrila located in marina vallarta , ocean view, fully furnished, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, jacuzzi, swimming pool, gym, security, tennis court, $850,000 USD. Phone 2262552 Rental Price $3,500 usd per month.

11694
Casa Serafines located in Rincón del Cielo, furnished, 2 bedrooms + studio, 3 bathrooms, equipped kitchen, Laundry room , A/C, Swimming pool, Security, $1,300,000 pesos. Pone 2262552



Services
11647
Professional Cleaning Service, Yachts, Boats, Houses and Condos
Honest and Professional Call Alejandra at 044-322-152-1173

11612
EXPERIENCE MEXICO
Tours to: Mexico City/Taxco/Cuernavaca CUBA, “Havana Unforgettable Experience” Oaxaca
Argentina Tonala Original “Shop Till you Drop” Tour All Alegre Tours originate and end in Puerto Vallarta
rvaldez714@hotmail.com
www.AlegreTours.com

11610
AMERICAN BOARD - CERTIFIED CHIROPRACTOR
Bahia Mobile Chiropractic Erik Fulfer, DC Quality affordable chiropractic care at your Home, Office, Resort or Spa.

ONLY $20 USD/ $250 MXP per visit!
bahiachiro@gmail.com/www.bahiachiropractic.com (322) 182-5045

11694
Property Management in Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit.
• Rental Collection
• Legal Assistence
• Payment of Services
• Maintenance
• Cleaning
Contact: 322 22 6 25 50
daniela@airtouchmexico.com
AIRTOUCHReal Estate

Useful Everyday Spanish Phrases

¡Buenos días!
bway-nohs dee-ahs
Hello! / Good morning!

¡Buenas tardes!
bway-nahs tard-ays
Good afternoon!

¡Buenas noches!
bway-nahs noh-chays
Good evening! / Good night!

Adiós.
ah-dee-ohs
Good bye.

Bienvenidos
byen-veh-nee-dohs
Welcome

Por favor.
por fah-bor
Please.

(Muchas) Gracias.
(moo-chahs) grah-see-ahs
Thank you (very much).

De nada.
day nah-dah
You’re welcome.

Hasta la vista / Hasta luego.
ah-stah lah vees-tah
/ ah-stah loo-ay-go
See you / See you later.

Lo siento
loh see-ehn-toh
I’m sorry

Con permiso / Perdón / Disculpe
kohn pehr-mee-soh / pehr-dohn / dees-kool-peh
Excuse me / Pardon me

Sí / No
see / noh
Yes / No

Me llamo... / Mi nombre es...
may yah-moh / mee nohm-breh ess
My name is...

¿Hablas inglés?
ah-blahs een-glehs
Do you speak English?

¿Puedes ayudarme?
pweh-deh ah-yoo-dar-meh

Claro / Claro que sí
klah-roh / klah-roh keh see
Sure / Of course

¿Dónde está / Dónde están... ?
dohn-deh eh-stah / dohn-deh eh-stahn
Where is ... / Where are ... ?

If you are a first time visitor to Puerto Vallarta, please remember you are in a different country with very different customs besides just the language itself. Mexican people for the most part are very polite, friendly, quite hospitable and usually have big smile on their face.

Many “gringos” not aware of this, especially the ones that have never been outside “Gringolandia”, sometimes come across as demanding and ridiculing. A kind word, sincere smile and “muchas gracias” go a long ways here in México.

The Zodiac Speaks

Welcome to Spring! This month finds the Sun in the constellation of Aries. The first day of Spring is an exact point astronomically.

It occurs when the orbit of the Earth around the Sun (the ecliptic) intersects Earth’s celestial equator, an imaginary line from our equator extended outward.

Aries is a fire sign, associated with the Ram, sacred to the Egyptians, and a time of resurrection (Easter) to the Christians. Mars is the ruler of Aries, and in medical astrology this sign rules the head.

The Aries intellect is purposeful and volatile. Martian energy inspires it, and it can be both creative and destructive. The Greek tale of Jason in search of the Golden Fleece demonstrates Aries energy best. He possessed the true Aries quality of leadership, and after many trials captures the Golden Fleece, and hurries off to seek another adventure in true Aries style.

Fire signs all look for love, and with Aries there is tendency toward complex arrangements leading to problems in affairs of the heart. It is Aries almost insatiable appetite and Martian spirit of conquest that can make for excess. This is true of both the Aries women as well as men.

The opposite sign to Aries, Libra is the balance to the self-asserting energy of the Ram. By learning humility and diplomacy, Aries can subdue its aggressive personality and learn to appreciate the viewpoint of others.

Aries asserts the individual; ego and often does battle with anyone that opposes the attainment of his goal. A sparring partner gives fuel to Aries fire, creating drama and adventure. Restless, physically active, dedicated to causes, and sometimes over-achievers. Aries symbolizes our entry into the hardships of reality from the meditative womb of Pisces.
Spring burst forth intent on the energy of new life. Little can stop this powerful flow.

Born in Aries: Joseph Campbell, Stephen Sondheim, Eudora Welty, Loretta Lynn, David Letterman, Doris Day, and Vincent Van Gogh. For more info: www.chartwisdom.com

The Easter season will be celebrated

by many this year at Christ Church by the Sea here in Puerto Vallarta.

The growing congregation, part of the Anglican Church of Mexico, will worship in English for the traditional Palm Sunday April 17 at 10:00 a.m., Maundy Thursday April 21 at 5:oo p.m., and Easter Sunday service April 23 at 10:00 a.m. Christ Church is the only English-language Christian Liturgical congregation in Puerto Vallarta and has attracted an increasing number of worshippers since it started in 2000.

The new church is located directly across the highway from the airport in a beautiful palapa building that formerly housed a restaurant. Completely refurbished and renewed, the church had seating for a hundred people and on recent Sundays it has been a “full house”. Additional seating has been added.

The rector of Christ Church is Father Jack Wehrs who established the Christian ministry on the aft deck of a boat berthed at the Marina.

The number attending each Sunday grew, so the congregation moved to larger and larger boats, then to condos for a few years before making the move to the building near the airport.

The worship service follows the Anglican/Episcopal prayer book and Hymnal, but Fr. Jack points out that folks of all Christian denominations are welcomed and regularly worship at Christ Church by the Sea.

Beyond Sunday services, which are held at 10 a.m. November through May, the church is actively involved in community outreach. It has put computers in handicapped schools, supplied books for school libraries, put in water filters for drinking at a local school, installed bathroom stalls for privacy, sump pumps to keep the water out of the school yards, computers in the offices, and has a number of parishioners teaching English to the kids. An ongoing project of the congregation

is bringing layettes to the new mothers at the regional hospital, and food and clothing to the poor in the area. All are invited to worship each Sunday and this Easter season at Christ Church by the Sea, located next to Thrifty Car Rental, Blvd. Fco. Medina 7936, across from the airport, just south of the pedestrian bridge from the airport, on the frontage road.

It is in a two story white building with the palapa in the rear. Services begin at 10:00 a.m. and are followed by a social hour. Babysitting is available during the service. For more information about Christ Church by the Sea, visit the website at www.ChristChurchbytheSea.org, or call Fr. Jack at 044 322 229-1129. The Easter Service on April 24th will be the final service for this season.

ASK THE MORTAGE EXPERTS

With mortgages becoming more of the norm in Mexico and with ever-increasing loan options, The Tribune is helping sort through the confusion by having your personal Financing/Mortgage questions answered by our local experts – David Schwendeman and Terence Reilly, Founder’s of MEXLend, an industry-leading Mortgage Broker based in Vallarta. We invite you to e-mail your questions regarding buying or financing Real Estate in Mexico to buyinginmexico@hotmail.com.

Q. “How secure is my property if I purchase in Mexico?” Chris M. – San Francisco, CA.

A. Very secure. In the “restricted zones” along the coast or near the border, foreign buyers are required to place the property in a Trust (Fideicomiso) with a Mexican bank.

The buyer is the beneficiary of the Trust and it is saleable, will-able and automatically renewable after 50 years.

As a buyer you have full rights of ownership, use and enjoyment. In effect, the Trust allows the transaction to act as “real property” for all intents and purposes.

This is an excellent mode of protection as the Bank Trust (Fideicomiso) places certain fiduciary obligations in the hands of a Licensed, Chartered Mexican Financial Institution. Financing adds an additional layer of protection deriving from the very thorough due diligence the Lender employs to investigate the deed of the property.

Banks tend to be rather conservative and would not offer mortgages on Mexican Property without a very high confidence level in doing so.

With financing, you not only have a Mexican bank looking out for you, you also have a US bank protecting your interests.

The Mexican economy has also been stable for many years and in fact, they are one of the top 10 emerging economies in the world.

The Mexican people are rightfully proud of their emergence onto the world scene and you can be assured that there are no foreseeable changes in the future. The advent of NAFTA in 1993 has been the driving force behind this economic miracle by opening Mexico up to foreign investment and stabilizing their currency.

Mexico’s resort areas rank among the finest in the world and the Mexican government is committing vast resources into the infrastructure of these areas to ensure that they continue to attract investment.

Proximity: Getting to Mexico is very easy for both from the United States and Canada. Most major cities offer non-stop flights directly to major tourist areas and there are more being added every year.

The “Boomer” generation: The enormous amount of accumulated wealth by the boomer generation has never been matched.

Today’s U.S. citizens and Canadians are much more adventurous than their predecessors.

Instead of settling for Florida many are investing their real estate dollars in Mexico.

Over 15,000 Americans and Canadians turn 55 each day.

Last year approximately 400,000 foreigners looked south to Mexico as an option for a place to retire or for a second home.

Few people can resist the magic of Mexico and now that financing is available, it is much more attainable for all.

MEXLend, Inc. is a Mexican mortgage brokerage that currently represents 8 different lenders offering 75 different loan options in Dollars, Pesos and Euros for buyers looking to purchase vacation or investment property throughout Mexico – including products specifically for Canadian citizens. In announced results based upon post-closing client interviews conducted by Mexico’s largest US lender, MEXLend won the #1 mark of distinction for both client satisfaction and fastest closings for the second straight cycle.

MEXLend can be reached at 322-132-7991 (in Vallarta), 917-779-9061 (while in the US or Canada), toll–free in Mexico by calling 1-800-3-Mi-Casa or go online at www.mexlend.com (For US and Euro loans) or
www.mexlend.com.mx for Peso loans.

Ask a Realtor

Q: I heard that the Capital Gain tax law exemption for foreigners has changed. Is this true?

George M. Flamingos Beach, Nuevo Vallarta

A: The law has not changed, but the interpretation and enforcement have. It is very important to remember that the intent of the exemption granted for Capital Gain tax on the sale of a primary residence is supposed to be just that; YOUR PRIMARY RESIDENCE!

That means you can’t have your primary residence in the US and exempt your capital gain tax there and do the same here in Mexico. The SAT (Servicio de Administración Tributaria), also known as “Hacienda”, is the federal tax collector.

They collect all federal taxes such as the ISR (Income or Capital Gains) tax, the IVA (Added Value) tax and the IDE (Tax on Cash Deposits).

Recently, the director of Hacienda has issued a memorandum stating: “The foreigner who does not have a valid immigrant status before the proper Mexican authority is assumed to NOT be a resident of the country and is subject to the capital gain tax.”

A valid immigrant status is considered an FM-2.

So tourist visas and FM-3’s are no longer acceptable as valid immigrant status for the purpose of proving your residence.

So if you DO NOT have an FM-2 visa, the sale of your property is considered VACATION OR SECOND HOME OR A RENTAL PROPERTY and no exemptions are permitted.

The tax on non-exempted transactions is 30% of the difference between the value declared in the deed (in pesos) and the value of the new sale, less allowable deductions or 20% of the entire amount of the transaction, whichever is less.

Therefore, when you buy your property in PV, you must insist upon having the full amount of the sale declared in the deed, in order to avoid overpaying taxes upon sale.

It is also vitally important to ask for a “factura” (official tax receipt) when doing any capital improvement on your property. In the event you have not done this, it is possible to have your property re-appraised by an authorized appraiser and this increased amount can be credited towards your tax basis.

So if you do not have an FM-2, be prepared to get one prior to the sale of your property, or be prepared to pay your Capital Gains Tax here in Mexico. Now some good news:

There is no “double-taxation” on the sale of your property here. So if you pay your Capital Gain tax here in Mexico, you will not be subject to another tax in the US and you can re-patriot the funds legally.

Please remember that your friends who may have avoided the Cap Gain tax here previously are STILL subject to audit here in Mexico (for up to five years) and Cap Gain Tax in the U.S.! So nobody gets off for free, legally.

The tax authorities in the U.S., Canada and Mexico work together and share information.

Every day there is more cooperation between the countries due to tax treaties.

It is no longer possible to own a property in one country, enjoy income from that property, and not report it in BOTH the country where the property is located, and the country where the owner lives.

Failure to comply means the owner is subject to double taxation and heavy penalties when the omission to file and declare is discovered.

So if you are considering selling your property here in PV, you should consult with a tax expert here and also your accountant in the US in order to determine the best way to file your taxes.

Here is something else to ponder; paying Capital Gains tax implies you have made a gain on the sale of your property.

Congratulations!

Would you rather have lost money, so you would not have to pay tax?

Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta? Just ask!

Michael Green moved here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Mike can be reached by e mail: pvgetaways@hotmail.com

SUE AND MARIE

We have talked before about the DSD (Discover Scuba Diving) program which is the dive today method and your instructor will be in control of everything you do.

So now we will let you know all about what to do if you have tried it or know you’re going to love it and want to become a certified diver.

All of the courses we teach are through the PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) programme and are recognized worldwide.

The open water diver course certifies you to dive to a maximum depth of 60ft without the need for an instructor.

With your certification card you can hire gear anywhere in the world and go exploring with your dive buddy.

Scary you may think, but the course will train you to do everything in the safest way possible.

How long does this take? Years? Months?

Weeks? No, just 3 days in total. See, scuba diving really is easy.

The course covers everything from how to set up, check and care for your equipment.

The safety checks you need to go through before entering the water.

How to check how much weight you need to carry to stay submerged, when and how much air needs to be added to your BCD so you can swim along neutrally buoyant, not hitting the bottom or floating to the surface.

Neutral buoyancy swimming is fantastic, the feeling of being weightless, just like astronauts in space.

The course also teaches you about how to use your lungs to control depth under water, just like the seahorses in last week’s article.

As we breathe in we start to rise and we sink when we breathe out.
Awesome for avoiding coral and rocks with the minimum effort necessary.

In fact Scuba diving has got to be one of the most relaxing and effortless sports on the plant.

All of the skills are first taught and practised in a swimming pool and then perfected in the ocean.
You get to do four ocean dives during the learning process, which teaches you everything you need to know to go off on your own (well, with a buddy as solo diving is not a good idea) and explore.

You can even learn all of the dive theory online in the comfort of your own home.

This is very popular as during the course, you can spend your evenings relaxing for the next day’s training rather than having to study for the exam!

Exam I hear you say, yes, its 50 questions, multiple choice and 75% to pass.

It’s not hard. Honest. It the same exam the junior divers take at the age of 10! Childs play.

So whether you are here in Puerto Vallarta or reading this online, you can get started today.

Just log onto Padi.com/elearning and register under the store number 22262.

Orchestra Event a Big Hit

Last Sunday´s Orchestra event at the American College was a big success, thanks to all that attended.
Here is the program that was performed.
St Paul’s Suite --Holst
was written by the English composer Gustav Holst in 1912, but due to revisions wasn’t published until 1922. It is named after the St Paul’s Girls’ School in the United Kingdom, where Holst was Director of Music from 1905 to 1934. It was written in gratitude to the school which had built a soundproof studio for him. Originally written for strings, Holst added wind parts for his students at St. Paul’s to allow more students to participate. Tonight’s edition has been re-written by John Robertson (one of our clarinet players and a composer from Toronto, Canada) to suit the instrumentation of our orchestra. The suite has four movements:
I. Jig:
II. Ostinato:
III. Intermezzo:
IV. Finale (The Dargason):

Irish Tune--Percy Aldridge Grainger
Percy Grainger was born in Australia in 1882. He spent his early years there before moving to England for most of his young adult life. In 1914 Grainger moved to the USA where continued spent most of the rest of his life. Grainger was a concert pianist as well as composer. Many of his compositions used new 20th century forms such as beetles music, chance music and unplayable music. He was one of the first composers to use tone clusters in his compositions.
Tonight’s selection is from a collection of British Folk Tunes that Grainger composed. It is based on a well-known Irish Tune which many of you will recognize. His beautiful orchestration reflects his many musical influences while retaining the essence of English folk music.

Petite Symphony---Gounod
Gounod was born in Paris, the son of a pianist mother and an artist father. His mother was his first piano teacher. Under her tutelage, Gounod first showed his musical talents.
His Petite Symphony was originally written in 1885 for flute, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 horns, and 2 bassoons. This evenings performance of the Finale from this work, has been transcribed to suit our instrumentation.

Fugue in E Minor--Oliveros
You are about to hear the world premiere of the Fugue in E Minor by Vallarta Composer José Felix Oliveros. Sr. Oliveros is the brother of Reyes Oliveros who is one of the violinists in tonight’s quartet.

JOSE FELIX OLIVEROS MARTINEZ-
Organista y Pianista.
Nació en Puerto Vallarta Jalisco el 21 de noviembre de 1985, el decimo de once hermanos inicio en la música a los 12 años participando en el mariachi que había formado su padre. Al concluir el bachillerato e influenciado por su hermano mayor, decide partir a la capital, Guadalajara Jal. a continuar con sus estudios musicales en la Escuela Superior de Música Sacra donde egresa como Lic. en Canto Gregoriano con el Prof. Domingo Lobato y aconsejado por su Prof. De contrapunto Manuel Cerda decide ingresar a la Universidad de Guadalajara donde actualmente cursa el 4to semestre de la Licenciatura en Composición. Es recién ganador de la beca “Gabriel Ruiz”.

Concerto in D Minor--Bach
This Concerto for 2 Violins, Strings and Continuo in D Minor, also known as the Double Violin Concerto, is perhaps one of the most famous works by J. S. Bach and considered among the best examples of the work of the late Baroque period. Bach wrote it between 1730 and 1731 when he was the cantor at Thomasschule in Leipzig, Germany. In addition to the two soloists, the concerto is scored for strings and basso continuo.
The concerto consists of three movements:
Vivace
Largo ma non tanto
Allegro
Tonight’s Soloists are Leslie Knight and Carol Kirkman.

Carol Kirkman has been a music educator over 35 years. She played with the Central Oregon Symphony for 25 years as well as the Dove String Quartet. She retired from teaching orchestra in Bend, Oregon last year and has been enjoying seeing her two granddaughters, substitute teaching and being with her husband of 32 years. She now lives in southwest Washington and plays with Clark College orchestra and the Oregon Symphonietta. Carol says that she is happy to be here, enjoying the Mexican sun and playing music!

Leslie Knight was raised in Portland, Oregon and attended Willamette University where she earned a Bachelor of Music in viola performance. She and her husband, Jim, moved to Central Oregon in 1979. Since then Leslie has performed with the Central Oregon Symphony almost every year with a brief hiatus when son Wyatt was born. She has been the violist in the Dove String quartet since it’s beginning.
Summer of 42--Michel Legrand
This beautiful melody is the music written for the 1971 movie Summer of ‘42 which is a 1971 American coming of age drama film based on the memoirs of screenwriter Herman Raucher. It tells the story of Raucher as a boy, in his early teens on his 1942 summer vacation on Nantucket Island, off the coast of New England, who embarked on a one-sided romance with a woman, Dorothy, whose husband had gone off to fight in World War II.

Expats In Vallarta April Schedule

Expats in Vallarta will be having their Happy Hour gathering on Tuesday April 12th at Langostino’s on Los Muertos Beach from 5:00 to 7:00pm.

Wine and Appetizer evenings are scheduled for Friday April 15th in the Conchas Chinas area and on the 25th in the Versalles area. Please contact sarajwise@yahoo.com early for reservations.

The local group of Expats In Vallarta is open to all ExPat residents, visitors and investors from other countries. The purpose of the group is informal fellowship and assistance for expats around Vallarta or for those considering the area. There is no membership fee or requirement; everyone pays for only what they use or consume.

For further information, check out their new website http://www.expatsinvallarta.com/ which provides information about the group.

Just Another Day in Paradise

Puerto Vallarta, commonly referred to as “PV” both by local expats as well as visitors has grown into one of the leading and most popular tourist destinations in all of Mexico. Located alongside Mexico’s largest bay, the Bay of Banderas in the state of Jalisco which is home to Tequila, the Sombrero and the famous Charreadas, is visited by millions of tourist every year to enjoy the renowned Mexican hospitality , diverse activities and of course beautiful beaches
Puerto Vallarta truly is a paradise, if you get bored here you´re probably dead already but just don´t it yet. . .It´s amazing how many of my friends have never done or even heard of these activities.

Here is a brief overview of exciting activities for both tourists and local residents alike

San Sebastian del Oeste
Burrowed deep in the heart of the Sierra Madre Mountains, San Sebastian’s remote setting has made it one of Mexico’s last remaining secrets. While this tiny mountain enclave (elevation 4500 ft) isn’t far from Puerto Vallarta, it’s still a world away from the usual tourist haunts.

Getting there
Just 90 minutes distance from Puerto Vallarta, the drive flies by as you wind your way through impressive mountain scenery.
On the way there you’ll see everyday scenes of rural life and some of the most breathtaking views Mexico has to offer.

Colonial Mexico perfection
Originally settled in 1605, this secluded 17th century mining town reached its peak of prosperity in the 1700s, when over 30,000 people inhabited the area. Over the years, the town’s population fluctuated wildly as gold and silver were mined intermittently between the 1600’s and the 1930’s.

Coffee & Agave
Although those gold rush years are long gone and settlers have since moved on, this beautiful mountain village of just 600 residents has kept its true colonial heritage. A shining example of an ancient Mexican village and well known for its corn and cattle trade, San Sebastian is now cultivating coffee and agave in its lush

Untouched by time
With its charming cobblestone plaza, elegant snow-white buildings, classic Porfirian bandstand, an 18th century church dedicated to San Sebastián and a wealth of 18th century Haciendas, you’ll enjoy a privileged glimpse into colonial Mexico, untouched by time.

Rhythms of the Night
As night falls, Las Caletas is transformed into a magical paradise, the ultimate backdrop for an exclusive event, Rhythms of the Night - an amazing voyage that will transport you to a mystical and spiritual land that time forgot.

Getting there
Your adventure begins with about an hour across Banderas Bay to the isolated cove of Las Caletas as this is the only means of getting there from Puerto Vallarta.

Whale Watching
From mid-December to the end of March, Banderas Bay offers some of the world’s most spectacular whale watching opportunities anywhere.
Scuba-Diving
The warm, crystal-clear waters of Banderas Bay and the Mexican Pacific are home to a vast array of sea life making Puerto Vallarta one of Mexico’s top diving destinations.


Canopy Adventure
Hidden in the heart of the virgin tropical forest of the Sierra Madre Mountains, just 45 minutes northeast of Puerto Vallarta, lays the only true treetop canopy and adventure eco-tour in all of the area where you explore high above the jungle floor via zip lines, suspended walkways and platforms, by scaling the Crazy Ladder and descending via rappels.

Feel like Tarzan
Your wildest fantasies of being Tarzan or Jane are vividly brought to life as you feel total exhilaration, swinging at high speed from treetop to treetop through the dense tropical vegetation.

Giant tropical trees
Feel the rush of adrenalin pump through your veins as you whoosh from platform to platform, 90 ft. (30 meters) above the forest floor in one of most beautiful and complex natural eco-systems on earth. A thrilling series zip lines give you the optimum perspective to marvel at this stunning tropical setting as you effortlessly traverse through huge tropical trees, amongst wild orchids and a diversity of native birds and reptiles.

Off-road Adventure
An off-road adventure is the ideal way to get off the beaten path and explore the real Mexico. Never shy to celebrate the wealth of natural resources and raw, breathtaking scenery of this area .

Marine Life
Sailing is the ultimate way to witness wild dolphins, humpback whales, manta rays, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. During the winter season (December to March) whales are also often spotted breeching.

Snorkel, swim or kick back
The more adventurous of you can take the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the beautiful Banderas Bay. For those who crave some downtime though, this is the perfect day to just lie back and bask in the tropical rays. Relax to the calming sounds of the ocean and the billowing sails as we cater to your every need.

Marietas Eco Discovery
There is a vast array of marine life living in the Mexican Pacific and on the shores of Banderas Bay. Taking a trip to the Marietas Islands, everyone anxiously awaits the spotting of whales and dolphins but the ocean is also home to a plethora of majestic giant manta rays, sea turtles and exotic tropical fish, also plays host to many indigenous feathered friends like the blue footed boobies and red-billed tropicbirds and, sadly, some of the world’s last remaining Green Macaws.

Our flippered friends
Whale season in Banderas Bay runs from mid-December to the end of March, but we’re fortunate to see wild dolphins throughout the entire year. The best opportunity to see these playful and intelligent mammals is heading towards the Marietas Islands.

Navy League Charreada Excites All Who Attended

Last month’s second annual Charreada (Rodeo) performance created considerable excitement and thrills while benefiting the local Navy League council and Toys for Tots. About 200 were in attendance, including 21 kids from Refugio Infantil de Santa Esperanza (RISE) under the sponsorship of generous Navy League members.

The charros put on a rousing performance, accompanied by the lively music of the “Nuevo Continental” mariachi band. Also performing was a “skirmish team,” or sidesaddle female riding group from nearby Bucerias. The professionalism and enthusiasm of all performers were clear to see, matched only by the warm reception of a very appreciative audience. We hope for a repeat performance in 2012. So those who missed out this year should definitely plan to attend next year. You won’t be disappointed.

Following the charro performance, a delicious Mexican luncheon was served to all under a beautiful blue sky.
The mariachis continued their excellent music throughout lunch and even coaxed a few guests to join in a conga line that snaked throughout the crowd. What a fitting end to a traditional Mexican fiesta.

We’d like to thank our generous donors for helping to make the event successful, including the Jalisco Governor’s Office, the Charro Association of Puerto Vallarta, Tequila Hacienda Vieja, the Bucerias Skirmish Team, and of course the site of the event – Lienzo Charro Miguel Prieto Ibarria Arena.

As background, the Navy League is dedicated to welcoming Navy ships from all nations to the friendliest port city in Mexico, painting and repairing schools and other non-profit and public facilities, transporting donated medical and school supplies from the U.S. and Canada aboard visiting Navy ships, and running the local Toys for Tots program.

To join this outstanding civic and charitable organization, contact President Bill Clark at 222 36 16 or clarkbill@earthlink.net.

No prior military experience is required, only an interest in helping the less advantaged citizens of our region.

Fashion Show Becas Vallarta

Continuing the celebration of Becas Vallarta’s Fifty Years of funding scholarships for local youngsters, eighth grade through university, La Leche Restaurant and Liverpool Department Stores are sponsoring a Becas Brunch and Fashion Show on Wednesday, April 13, 2011.

La Leche doors will open for seating at 10:30 a.m. and the brunch and fashion show will begin at 11:00 a.m. Prominent cultural luminary Nacho Cardenas and his son Chef Alfonso Cardenas of La Leche are cooking up a fabulous brunch while Cucu Paredes of Liverpool is lining up models and garments for men, women and children which will surely delight every taste.

The eclectic menu planned by father and son sounds fabulous. They are planning to serve Orange and Tangerine Juice, Coctel Hierba-buena, Fruit Plate with Yogurt Vinaigrette with Tangerine, Mango and Basil, a Becas Special of Roasted Onion Quiche with Ricotta Cheese, Bacon and Gruyere, Eggs Florentine, Village Egg Bread and of course coffee or tea.While you are enjoying a leisurely and scrumptious brunch in the exquisite setting of La Leche, local personalities will entice you with the latest in fashion from our own Liverpool Department Store. Presidents Mariel and Carlos Fregoso along with their son Lorenzo, his wife María and their three children will show fashions for all sizes, genders and ages. Lolita Padilla, wife of Carlos Padilla of Toyota Puerto Vallarta, Rosanna Contreas, wedding planner Laura Cardenas Becas member Polly Vicars and Becas supporter Jenny Jenkins will be modeling fashions for the ladies of all ages, shapes and sizes. Joe Henry Jenkins and Hubert Vicars will join Carlos Fregoso on the distaff side.

Look for a few surprise models in this sure to be a fun event. Of course there will be the usual raffle of fabulous prizes donated by the local businesses that are so supportive of Becas Vallarta’s scholarship program. The Silent Auction will feature flower arrangements from Floart and Flowers to go, framed posters by Stefan Lokos and many other real treasures. Tickets are $300 pesos and must be bought in advance. All members of Becas are selling tickets or you can contact me at phvicars@gmail.com or 223-1371 or 044-322-182-0215. These events sell out quickly, so give me a call or send me an e-mail. You really shouldn’t miss this last of season breakfast events of Becas Vallarta which is going to be FABULOUS!

Puerto Vallarta to Get Emergency Women’s Shelter

Soon, much needed services will be available to local women who are living in abusive situations. A local group called “Vida Reavivida/Compassion for the Family” is building an emergency shelter for women who are victims of domestic and sexual violence. Currently, there is no safe place in the area for Social Services to send these women and their children to get the help they need.

The shelter, called Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter, will have the capacity to house seven women and up to three children per woman.

In addition to emergency shelter, Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter will provide counseling, general education, job training, job search,parenting classes and teach English as a second language. After the women acquire the
ability to be on their own, Vida Reavivida/Compassion for the Family will offer assistance in finding housing, and have small business loans available.

The goal is to provide these women with the skills needed to live, work, and raise their families independently. A facility like this means these families can stop the cycle of abuse, and renew their lives with hope and health
Vida Reavivida/Compassion for the Family plans to fund the building of the shelter through private donations, fundraisers and grants. On February 28, 2011 a fashion show fundraiser was held at Paradise Community Center.

This event was a fun filled and successful day. The next fundraiser will be a showing of “Rocky Horror Picture Show” at The Palm on Olas Altas, on March 26th and 27th, 2011, where a portion of the proceeds will benefit Vida Reavivida/Compassion for the Family.

In April, 2011 there will be a “Casino Night”; the exact date, time and place to be announced soon.

Tickets for events can be obtained by contacting David Zude at compassionforthefamily@yahoo.com.mx , Tel.322-103-2451,

There will be other fundraising events in the future to raise money for this worthy cause. Check the website and Facebook for the latest event planning information.

If you would like to discuss volunteer opportunities, make a private donation, or ask for more information, contact David Zude, phone number 322-103-2451 compassionforthefamily@yahoo.com , or visit the website at www.compassionforthefamily.org. Your tax deductible donations can be made directly from the website.

Primary Foods

There comes a time in everyone’s life when you must face the truth. You’ve got to take a good hard look at yourself and reevaluate who and where you are and why. Being honest with yourself can bring about huge change for the better or can cause you to recoil. It can be an arduous journey, but can free you up to rebuild your physical and mental bodies. Resolving Primary food issues can be a source of fear, worry, doubt and pain. But to walk through the fire is to become reborn in ways never known. Primary food is the ultimate self-nourishing and if in balance will support healthy eating habits curb cravings and emotional eating patterns. It can be the key to your awakening and progression. Ordinary food is what you put in your mouth for nourishment. Primary food is emotional nourishment, the primary importance in your life.
Primary foods are your personal relationships, spiritual practices, physical exercise, and career. Most of our waking time is spent running from, immersed in, stressed out about, or in some way concentrated on these things. The question is, are these areas providing you strength or are they draining the life right out of you? If these elements are out of whack then they are most likely affecting your efforts to eat well and maintain healthy lifestyle.
I usually talk about whole foods and how you can prepare a quick and healthy recipe. But this week I’m having my own challenges, and they can’t be fixed by whole foods. No matter how healthy the meal, the imbalance of my primary food will not only take center stage, but hinder my efforts eat a good meal. You can bet if I’m really stressed out, I’m reaching for the coffee and the sugar!
I am neither a physiologist nor a board certified blah blah blah, but I think this concept is something we can all agree on. Have you ever had a relationship so draining it caused you to lose sleep or become depressed?

A job so stressful, it caused ulcers and headaches? Maybe you forgot you lived directly across from the beach and forgot to watch the sunsets because you were caught up in some superficial drama? But darn tootin’ your diet was right on track. So why couldn’t you sleep? Why were you having trouble digesting?

What was with all the break outs and hearts palpitations? Hmm? We are not only fed by the food in our lives, but also by the energy. Could it have been the completely draining relationship, the fight with your spouse, the fact that you forgot to give yourself a bit of quiet time and your mind was racing a million miles an hour? Or was it that you were living in complete fear and worrying about the next 24 hours and the next 24 years!

Do you remember the times when you were happiest? Maybe you were in a healthy and loving relationship, or you felt at peace with your job, or you spent time listening to your heart’s needs, or maybe you were exercising regularly, giving our body the love it deserved, and eating whole foods and full of energy. Sometimes we veer off track and get distracted, things fall out of sync and we forget what it was like, sometimes for months and sometimes for years. Then one day you look up and wonder what happened? Where did YOU go? Where are YOU now? How the heck are you gonna get YOU back? Well, I can see you. You were right there all along!

As humans we hunger for play, touch, romance, intimacy, love, achievement, success, self-expression, excitement, and spirituality. All of these elements are essential forms of nourishment. How we incorporate them determines how enjoyable and worthwhile our lives feel.

There are small steps we can take to uplift our lives. Small changes yield big results, a little life recipe that’s sweeter than any sugar and stronger than any caffeine.

Small changes that bring about big results.

Relationships: having healthy relationships that support you
Evaluate the people in your life. Are they uplifting and inspiring you?
Love deep, committed and intimate connections

Honor the love and relationships in your love and only except which is doing the same for you.

Work: Find work you love or a way to love the work you have

Try to find contentment and except your job or find the courage to change it!

Movement: physical activity that you enjoy and doing it regularly

MOVE YOUR BODY!
Start with a 10 minute walk!

Breathing: practicing ways to bring oxygen and calm into your body

Spend some quiet time with yourself!

Enjoy the sunset, close your eyes and breathe!

Laughter: the healing sound of joy

Man does a good laugh feel good! HA!

Creativity: express what makes you uniquely you Cook, Draw, write, craft…….do something you like to do to foster creativity.

Spirituality: honor your relationship to God (by whatever name you choose) and to the spirit part of yourself

OM, Shalom, Amen, hug a tree, and so on………

Purpose: a way of being in the world that transcends living just for your self
Help someone in need, however you feel appropriate.

Listen to someone who needs to talk, volunteer, or donate your time in someway

Adventure: explore, get dirty, learn, grow, leap forward

Build a sandcastle; take a class,

DANCE, zip line!

EATING: nourish and energize your body and mind with whole foods!

Enjoy the delicious, fresh and local food Vallarta offers. Make your own meals!


FIND YOUR JOY
through PRIMARY FOODs!

Integrative Nutrition teaches a holistic approach to nourishment and focuses on whole foods as well as Primary Foods; your relationships, spirituality, exercise and career. As a student, I learned to reject culinary dogma, the status quo, and standard medical doctrine. I learned I could help people discover themselves and a healthier way of life, not by providing answers but by posing questions. Ultimately the student, based on their own intuition, would find their own answers and their own way.
www.integrativenutrition.com


Where can I go Latin dancing?

Sometimes local venues will give salsa socials a try at least one night a week, but unfortunately if they don’t see profits or a big draw of people in about a 4-6 week time-frame the effort will come to a halt. As a result, it’s a bit difficult to know where to go, because at times, just as you’re beginning to find out about a new place, the social night disappears. However, there are a few venues that are dedicated to this genre of music. Included is the always lively Cuban hang-out La Bodeguita del Medio located on the Malecón. The live music begins at 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday with a Cuban band playing on a yearly contract. The atmosphere is cheery and reminiscent of being in a smoky dive bar in Havana. The only drawback is that the dance floor is tiny and lends itself to lots of bumping bodies or tight squeezes dancing Bachata or Salsa. Besides that, it’s a great place and the staff is always friendly, and there is no cover.

Candela Pura is one of the newer places in PV located at the turn-off to the libramiento and across the street from Mega. On Thursdays and Fridays they’ll have a salsa band or a DJ play Latin tunes from 10 p.m. into the wee hours of the night. The dance floor is expansive, the place has a dark, nightclub atmosphere and the lounge sofas and tables are comfortable for long hours of socializing with a cocktail. I like this place mainly because they seem to like and support salseros although I generally prefer tropical-like or beachfront atmospheres when wanting to Latin dance- it’s just more inspiring.

Here the sultry Dulce Mireya Palacios Prado teaches salsa in Spanish Thurs. and Sat. from 8:30- 10:00 p.m. and the cost per class is 50 pesos. No cover here.
Then there is J&B Nightclub, one of the oldest dance venues in PV. This place looks like a 70’s disco and plays different Latin tunes almost every night.

The biggest advantage here is the hardwood dance floor, perfect for dancing and there almost always seems to be enough room for freedom of movement.

The last Friday of every month, they present what’s called Fiesta Latina when different dance schools –instructors and students alike perform on stage.

This place stays open until the early morning and is located at Francisco Medina Ascencio. It’s not one of my favorite places, simply because I would prefer to hear more salsa, Bachata and Cha Cha Cha music than Cumbia which is what they love to play, but many seem to really enjoy it.

The Latin Brothers teach salsa class in Spanish on Tues., Thur. and Fridays from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Each hour class costs 50 pesos. They are a talented, well-liked brother and sister team. Sometimes there is a cover of up to 100 pesos.

Next up, the Twisted Rose in Bucerias. Now this is a tropical gem tucked about two or three blocks from the beach, it’s easy to miss if it weren’t for the vibrant sounds of the live Cuban band emanating from the inside.

The dance floor is great and the eats and drinks are inexpensive. There is usually a cover charge of about 50 pesos and the band plays Saturdays from 9ish until midnight.

This is one of my favorite places due to the outdoor, tropical atmosphere. More specifically, it’s located about two or three blocks from the central plaza.

Last, but definitely not least, is Don Pedro’s in Sayulita. Beachfront and fabulous!

Many PV peeps drive an hour there and an hour back every Monday just to get there dancing fix and hear the fantastic Cuban band. It’s a great mix of foreigners out to have a good time with salsa obsessed locals.

The oceanfront vibe here is always worth the drive and I hear the food is really good.

Sayulita is so small that you can just arrive and ask where it is so that someone will point you in the right direction.

The band starts playing at 8 p.m. until eleven. About 30 pesos gets you through the door.

Marcella Castellanos teaches salsa at Yoga Vallarta. You can contact her via Facebook or Twitter at Latin Motion PV or at www.latinmotionpv.com or visit her blog at http://latinmotionpv.blogspot.com/.

Migraines Natural Cures

Rid Yourself of a Migraine Headache, Naturally

I wrote this a couple of years ago..before the gluten free fad had hit home. If you are prone to Migraine, check this out..

Headaches can be basically divided into two types, tension and migraine.
As I was looking over the info on migraine and body pain, I remembered a woman who started her day with 2 pain killers and a coffee. Physical pain is a huge over- the -counter pharmaceutical business.

I hear Folks north of the border spend more than $1 billion every year to get relief from just migraine not to mention body pain. The pain associated with migraines can be incredibly debilitating. I have seen a number of patients who were disabled physically and mentally due to the intense pain of a migraine.

Many of the drugs used to treat migraines are effective in relieving this severe pain and are a welcome relief. Unfortunately they do absolutely nothing to treat the cause and in fact actually contribute to the problem as after a short while they can cause rebound headaches themselves. This is the same old story of western industrial medicine treating the symptom and not the actual cause of the pain. Pain is a heads- up message from the body to let you know that something is out of whack.

It is something like a smoke detector going off. It’s faster and easier to shut down the detector instead of finding the fire and putting it out. Then, after a bit, the detector goes off again and again. Each time louder and longer resulting in a full blown MIGRAINE.

Most migraines also seem to include a food-based reaction relating to wheat, dairy, sugar, acid foods, or artificial preservatives or chemicals. Eliminating these foods and incorporating sound nutritional principle frequently improves migraines and inflammation. A recent study of food based reactions revealed nine out of ten patients tried a gluten-free diet seven stopped having head aches, two other patients had some -- but not complete -- success by switching to a gluten-free diet.

The 10th one flaked out.. Yep, that’s bread, pasta, cereal, cake, whole wheat, and wheat derivatives. Fortunately, there are many natural treatment options that exist to treat migraines. These should always be considered first because as you know now drugs to treat migraines can make the problem worse. It is possible to stop headaches by stimulating your body’s natural painkilling ability. By putting pressure on a nerve just under your eyebrow, you can cause your pituitary gland to release painkilling endorphins immediately. Another method for releasing endorphins is to take 10 teaspoons of cayenne pepper in a glass of water. Endorphins are released by the brain when the cayenne hits your stomach lining.

I think you have to be pretty desperate to try this one, but it works.
Other useful techniques include:

• Putting a cold compress on your forehead or behind the neck
• Massaging the ears and ear lobes
• Massaging the “crown” of your head -- the ring of muscles that circle the head where a crown would sit, it worked for Queen Elizabeth who was a sufferer of migraines.
• Drink plenty of natural liquids, without sugar, sugar substitutes, odd colors or flavors.
• Avoid orange juice, tomatoes and eggplant.. they are just to acidic.
• Keep a journal of what brings on the migraine and get to the root, it may stress, hormone upsets, food combinations, and excess mental energy
• Seek out acupuncture for long term relief.

And lastly, start an exercise program; this will help to improve your response to stress along with the underlying inflammatory conditions that can trigger migraines.

Krystal Frost is a long time resident of Puerto Vallarta. She holds a degree from the University of Guadalajara in Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture and herbology. Ms. Frost went on to specialize in cosmetic acupuncture at Bastyr University in Washington State. She is the owner of Body & Sol in P.V. for over 18 years where she practices Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture, facial rejuvenation, massage therapy, yoga therapy and nutritional counseling. She is also co owner and creator of Organic Select Mexico, an on line organic bakery and market. www.organic-select.com

Krystal has created wellness and specialized culinary programs for individuals, retreats and spas.
Questions and comments may be directed to organic-select@hotmail.com Phone 222 1015, 9-5 Monday -Friday

Riviera Nayarit

Mark’s has been consistently voted “Best Restaurant Riviera Nayarit.” Join us for lunch or dinner on the intimate patio, the casually elegant interior or with the crowd at the bar and experience fresh, expertly prepared food, great music and attentive service. This week join us for fresh Baja Oysters on the half shell natural or panko crusted...plus glass of wine for $175.
www.marksbucerias.com,
Phone (329)298-0303 or marksbargrill@yahoo.com

Masala Bar and Grill Specialist
Mediterranean and Asian food, the best wines, Live Music every Tuesday 7 - 10 pm. Breakfast 9 to1pm Lunch and Dinner every day from 2 pm


Encore is the only and first live jazz venue in Riviera Nayarit. It is located on the beach along the restaurant row in Bucerias, 20 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. The shows which run from Wednesdays to Saturdays are headlined by Ms. Armi Grano, a well renowned Canadian jazz vocalist/recording artist. She is backed by a skilled and professional trio with a set list that includes songs by Gershwin, Jobim, Ellington and Porter. “Armi is a meticulous singer, her vocals clear, and her pitch and tone perfect. Her voice is one the listener can always recall with genuine listening pleasure!” says Lee Prosser of www.jazzreview.com.
Encore has become a regular hangout for local expats and tourists for its quality live entertainment, fun atmosphere and great food at reasonable prices. Watch the sunset from its palapa balcony while enjoying dinner or a glass of wine. Great place to have lunch on the beach with an array of appetizers, cocktails and ice cold beers. International cuisine, steak and fresh seafood. www.encoreonthebeach.com
www.armigrano.com

Shamrock has HAPPY H0UR every day 5pm to 7pm only national drinks, authentic Irish Pub.
Proud to be the first bar downtown Bucerias and open 5+ years here in Bucerias, owner Sharon Bell from Belfast, runs her bar as a family run business with her cousin Natalie from Dublin & the Internationally renowned Jesse. They have enjoyed being part of all the fun over the years and look forward to meeting many new friends of Shamrock Irish Pub and Lounge.

Original Anclote we offer a wide variety of Mexican dishes for you to enjoy what he pleases remember we have delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners to enjoy the taste are oceanfront here in Punta de Mita welcome!

Rancho Mi Chapparrita offers the excitement of the Canopy, Surfing, Horseback-Riding, 4 Wheeling, and sport fishing.

The Verdín Family brings you authentic Mexican Style folklore.

Great place to enjoy Seafood & Mexican dishes! Enjoy El Chivero Restaurant & Bar in the Dining room or kick back and have your meal right on the beach.

This family run Bucerias restaurant has been serving visitors and the town for many years, providing endless opportunities to watch the sunset while enjoying their popular dishes.

Try the variety of cocktails or national drink specials daily and remember to bring a friend

Mexico- A Retro Perspective Illustrated by Fernando Castellano


Fernando Castellanos Centurión was born in the beautiful town of Puebla de los Ángeles in 1937. He was very fortunate to be surrounded by the wonderful traditions and religious celebrations that a still very common, even nowadays throughout Mexico. His unique works are a reflection from his early childhood and youth, resulting in a wonderful series of water paintings and acrylics. The majority are everyday retro-scenes portraying the customs of yesterday’s Mexican culture


Fernando Castellanos Centurión was born in the beautiful town of Puebla de los Ángeles in 1937. He was very fortunate to be surrounded by the wonderful traditions and religious celebrations that a still very common, even nowadays throughout Mexico. His unique works are a reflection from his early childhood and youth, resulting in a wonderful series of water paintings and acrylics.

The majority are everyday retro-scenes portraying the customs of yesterday’s Mexican culture








Michael R. Lee

In 2009, a friend introduced me to a miracle cure (well that is what I call it) and my life was changed forever. I lost 35 pounds in 9 weeks and I not only looked fabulous but I felt good too.

This program cleansed my body and when I was done I realized that certain foods did not agree with me. I discovered I had an allergy to dairy and that it was making me very ill. Now I am strong and healthy. The rashes I had been plagued with are gone and now I have soft smooth skin.

Everyone thinks I look as amazing as I feel. I am having so much fun shopping for new clothes - everything fits so beautifully I can hardly believe it - I’m wearing size 4 jeans! What is also amazing is how much food I’m eating while still keeping the weight off.

We have a 100% success rate in helping our clients lose weight. If you are struggling with this frustration we can help.
Visit our web site (www.sureresults.net) and learn more about this amazing hormonally based weight loss program that is changing the lives of everyone who does it.

Did you know that poor quality of sleep and sleep deprivation contribute to obesity?

This is because the vast majority of weight loss occurs in the last four hours of sleep.

In the first four hours an enormous cascade of hormonal interactions takes place which balances our body’s internal mechanisms helping it to recover from the previous day and preparing it for the next.

The second four hours of sleep are for fueling the metabolic furnace in preparation for challenges of the upcoming day.

Recent studies have now proved that if there is no last four hours of sleep, weight can actually be gained. In several of my previous submissions I’ve referred to two metabolic hormones which are intimately involved in hunger and satiety. Leptin is the hormone that tells you that you are full so you should stop eating and stop storing fat.

Ghrelin is the hormone that tells you that you are hungry and must eat. Sleep deprivation stops the production of leptin and increases the production of ghrelin.

This is why you often see tired people grazing for food all day long and the foods they classically forage for are the quick-burn, sugary/starchy, simple carbohydrates which always spike the insulin levels which causes many of these extra calories to be converted to fat and stored.

The bottom line is that we all need somewhere in the neighborhood of 8 hours of preferably uninterrupted sleep each night.

We might be able to get by on less now and again but trying to make a habit of it causes chaos with our metabolism and none of the results are desirable.

Respect For Art And Passion, What Best Describes Galería Corsica

In just eight short years, Jean Pierre Renucci and partner José Villavicencio not only founded the most exciting art gallery in years, Galeria Corsica, in downtown Puerto Vallarta, but nearly single-handedly changed the face of the art world in this increasingly cosmopolitan coastal pueblo.

Born in Corsica, South of France, Jean Pierre met José from Mexico City in Puerto Vallarta and while visiting the existing galleries at that time, they decided to open an art gallery specialized in only Top Mexican Art that would show the great respect and love they have for Art.

Within Galería Córsica, the two partners are proud to present some of the country´s top talent. ”Our focus is on artists who exhibit at important art museums, primarily in Mexico City where the country´s most important museums are located, most of whom already have an international following.”

Having had previous experience in the art field both of them, they claim that their passion for art is the secret to their success since they don´t represent someone for commercial reasons but because, they like their work. “The fact that we´ve been so amazingly successful is almost beside the point. We wanted to do something that we really like, so our decision from the beginning was to be very choosy.” Attending art school in his youth, Jean Pierre studied with French sculptor Cesar Baldaccini who “taught me the difference between good art and art that is commercial. I´ll never forget how it changed the way I saw things.

Forever.” Representing top contemporary Mexican artists in a mostly american/canadian market has been a challenge for Jean Pierre and José since it´s been hard to educate people on the subject. José says that “you can really tell when a collector enters the gallery because he distinguishes immediately the quality of the pieces that are displayed and, knowing what this kind of art is worth, usually says that our prices are really inexpensive.

On the contrary, there are some people that come to the gallery and love what they see but don´t know anything about the artists or Mexican art for the matter. It´s then that we know we have to start the education process. People get really excited when they learn that José Luis Cuevas is the most famous living Mexican artists in the whole world or that Manuel Felguérez is the most important abstract Mexican artists of all times. They just can´t believe that such important artists works are actually displayed at Corsica”

Galería Corsica features the works of some other important masters such as Vladimir Cora, Flor Minor, Agustín Castro, Miguel Carrillo and Carlos Oviedo together with some younger but consolidated talents such as and Antonio Castro, Rocío Caballero, Hector de Anda, Ricardo Fernández, Rodrigo de la Sierra and Bertha Picallo, just to name a few.

This season, Jean Pierre and José have prepared an exhibition program that includes some artists that are new to the Puerto Vallarta market and some others that are already very well known but were not represented by Corsica before such as Raymundo Andrade.

Galeria Corsica has 5 exhibit rooms and a courtyard on Leona Vicario 230, and an alternate space on Guadalupe Sánchez, 735, both in downtown Puerto Vallarta.

Phone: 223-1821.
www.galeriacorsica.com

Galleria Dante

Ignacio Guerrero, essentially a self-taught artist was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco in 1963. Ignacio is free when he paints and at the same time frees us of any prejudice to dream, sleep or awaken. The birds are hummingbirds, pigeons, herons, accompanying each visual journey into the sky beyond. Each figure is an allegory, an honest emotion in animals and characters translated by mastering the technique and the brush. Everything they see is a game, a wonderful play of colors and textures.

The horses gallop with energy, the doors cannot find their keys; branches of the trees crave to float. Women stretch their arms and legs to hold a decent comfortable place on the canvas where they will live.

There is no doubt that the more pleasant and provocative muses, parade with enthusiasm for each painting and pictorial direct the orchestra with his hands flying in infinite creativity.

Guerrero has participated in approx. 50 group and individual exhibitions. His work, which is surrealist in quality, is in collections in France, Germany, Canada, USA and Mexico.
Please come celebrate with us on April 8th, from 6 to 10 pm. Also more works to arrive the following week from a show held over by popular demand at the Chamber of Commerce in Guadalajara.

Vallarta Tribune Office now open in el Centro in Puerto Vallarta

Last week Vallarta Tribune opened its public relations office on Morelos street. Its primary function is to accommodate our advertisers, place classified ads and drop off any pertinent information such as event information and letters-to-the editor. It is also to attend our Tribuna de la Bahía customers and very a central place to get a copy of both papers. The number of printed copies has been increased to facilitate the demand we´ve been facing. Nearly every week we are receiving e-mails and phone calls as early as Mondays and Tuesday from readers looking for a copy at their usual spot, the increase in demand as made it difficult to keep up with the demand.

We hope to have a sufficient supply available at the office throughout the week. The office is located just a block from LAN´S Department Store on Morelos # 787 and is open from 10am-2pm and 5pm-7pm Monday through Friday, 10am to 2 pm on Saturdays, closed on Sundays.

Things to Do!!

Tequila Tasting

Located in a traditional Mexican Hacienda in Puerto Vallarta, you will enjoy a tequila tasting from an extraordinary collection of tequila. Listen to live music until 2:00 a.m. Light food is available and the finest Cuban cigars. Morelos #589 – only one block off the Malecon.

Trolley

An enchanting open air trolley will take you on a short tour of the downtown Puerto Vallarta. It leaves from in front of McDonald’s every 30 minutes between 10:00 am and 10:00 pm. The cost is $6.00 USD per person.

Turtles

In Mexico turtles are protected and it is against the law to sell or consume turtle soup, turtle eggs, turtle shells etc. During the summer months the adult turtles return to our Vallarta shores to lay their eggs.
The nests are protected by a fence and guarded until the hatchlings emerge. Many hotels, who have protected nesting sites on their beaches, will allow guests to help the new hatchlings get from the nurseries to the open ocean;
Rosita Hotel, Sheraton, Fiesta Americana, Westin Regina, Marriott Casa Magna, Sun Terra Vallarta Torre, Presidente Intercontinental and Dreams Resort & Spa. Inquire at the reception desk of the hotel nearest you about estimated hatching schedules and if you can participate in the release of the hatchlings.

Whale Watching

In the winter months in Puerto Vallarta (November to March) Whale Sittings in the Bay of Banderas can be viewed from the terrace on you villa.

There are several tour companies will take you on the water to watch the whales. Often you will see mothers and their babies close up.

Wind Surfing

Many of the hotels in Puerto Vallarta rent wind surfers. Call the hotel information desks at the hotels closest to you.

Yachting

Motor yachts, sail boats and catamarans are readily available in Puerto Vallarta or at the Marina.

Yoga

Classes are held at the Escuela de Musica in the Isla Rio Cuale on the island in the River Cuale below the bridge - East end of the island in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Everyone is welcome.
There are also morning classes on the beach at the Los Arcos Hotel in Olas Altas. Yoga with Mikki, Yoga Vallarta all have daily classes for all levels.

Mismaloya

Canopy Chicos
Email for Reservations:
canopychicos@hotmail.com

Grupo el Eden
El Eden, Rio Mismaloya Puerto Vallarta Jalisco

Mundo Nogalito
Avenida del cedro Num.7 Colonia el Nogalito Puerto Vallarta Jalisco
Romantic Zone
Canopy River
Insurgentes #369, Basilio Badillo or Fco. Medina Ascencio 1968A
Phone: (322) 222-0560
Email for Reservations:
info@canopyriver.com.mx

Tour Vallarta
Lazaro Cardenas 381-E
Phone: (322) 223-5445
jnunez@tour-vallarta.com

Unique ATV Tours
Basilio Badillo 429 Colonia Emiliano Zapata
Phone: 322-223-3516

Free Line US/CA: 1.866.391.6109
Email for Reservations:
uniqueatvtours@aol.com

Downtown
Canopy El Eden
Ignacio L Vallarta #228,
Emiliano Zapata
Phone: (322) 222-9983

Canopy los Veranos
Francisca Rodriguez No.336 Col. Emiliano Zapata Puerto Vallarta Jalisco CP. 48380

Rancho Palma Real
Juarez #20 Puerto Vallarta Jalisco CP. 48260

North-shorew
Cruceros Princesa
Paseo de las Garzas 100 - B Zona Hotelera Norte Puerto Vallarta Jalisco

Grayline Puerto Vallarta
Rio Santiago 203, Fluvial
Phone: (322) 225-1190
Email for Reservations:
csoberon@graylinevallarta.com
Website: www.graylinevallarta.com

Outdoor Vallarta
Fco.Villa 1444 Punta Mita. Puerto Vallarta Jalisco

ShoreX
Peninsula Shopping Center 2nd level

Las Glorias
Servicios Ecoturisticos El Jorullo
Boulevard Francisco Medina Ascencio 1968 A
Phone: (322) 222-0560
Email for Reservations:
info@ecofun.mx

Vallarta Fishing
Tucan #120 Col. Aralias
Puerto Vallarta Jalisco

Marina Vallarta
Charly´s Sailing and Sportfishing
Cond. Club de Tenis Puesta del Sol, Local 9-A Phone: (322) 221 0352
Email for Reservations:
contact@cssfishing.com

Dos Amantes Custom
Sailing Charters
Marina Vallarta Dock F-2
ECO Explorer
Proa s/n Local 21,
Condominio Marina Rey
Phone: (322) 221 3257
Email for Reservations:
info@ecoexplorer.com.mx

Ecotours de México -
Earth Friendly Adventures
Proa s/n local 20,
Condominio Marina del Rey
Phone: (322) 222 6606
Email for Reservations:
info@ecotoursvallarta.com

Mike´s Fishing Charter
Mastil 2 Int 1
Col. Marina Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta Jalisco

Vallarta Adventures
Marina Vallarta
Calle Mastil Ed. Marina Golf Local 13C
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco.

Music
Puerto Vallarta Municipal
Music Band
Every Thursday and Sunday
Plaza de Armas
6:00 pm.
Cover/Entrance:FREE

Popular Dance
Dancers of the Bahía de Banderas
Every Saturday at the Main Plaza El Pitillal
Every Sunday at the Plaza de Armas Los Arcos
7:00 pm.
Cover-Entrance: FREE

Folclorick
Grupo Folclórico Municipal Xiutla
Every Friday
Lázaro Cárdenas Park / Parque Lázaro Cárdenas
7:30 pm
Cover-Entrance: FREE

Danza
Pre-Hispanic Dance
Every Monday, Tuesday and Friday
Hidalgo Park/Parque Hidalgo
7:00 pm.
Cover-Entrance: FREE

Spanish Classes
Conversation Club
CEPE Universidad de Guadalajara
Libertad 105-1, downtown
Tel. 223 2082
Five English Speakers
for Practice
Volunteers Wanted Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio 1712
Col. Olimpica Tel. 222-7137

Letters to Editor

Hi David,

Barbara and I truly see a fine change in the Tribune since you have taken over.....

We did not have any complaints with Heather Wilson, But the approaches are new and different..

Especially, I respect HOW you replied to an individual that started every sentence with a WE and I am not certain who the WE is, for a questionable charity.

It is common knowledge that there are some charities in the area that are charities in name only, and are for the sole benefit of some scrupulous organizers that use it to earn money for themselves by CREATING a cause..

Also, the dialogue that took place with you and the person who disputed the benefits of Dr. Mike Lees’ diet program, might have not occurred if you had displayed the fact that it was a PAID for ADVERTISEMENT....

Seems that all ARTICLES should say that ,if it is looking for business to earn money.....and not confuse the readers as to the authenticity of it’s contents...

Keep up the great work David



Hello Mel,

I´m glad you like the changes and appreciate your comments.

We know we can´t please everyone all the time, but we do try.

Heather did an excellent job as I had previously mentioned and I really hope some folks will accept the fact that the Tribune of the past is just that, history.

The Board of Directors want the Tribune to be a more dynamic and provocative.

There seems to be a lot of duplication in the local “English media”.

We feel there is a time and a place for certain content, however we want to bring you more exciting articles, local news as well as coverage of Mexico as a whole, but most of all different from the rest of the bunch.

As far your comment regarding Dr. Lee, it has been properly marked as a “Paid Advertising” as of last week.

This is the only such ad in the Tribune.

Mel


Hey David,

Paper looks GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What a change!!
I need to contact Krystal Frost. How do I do that? I can only sleep about 3-4 hours per night…
You were running a weight loss article, and I would like to talk to them as well?
-I want to start with an ad asap in your paper….if you have a look at the pvscene.com forum, I have an ad that pops up there.
I want it to be very simple:
Direct Cash ATM’s
Safe/secure/24/7 customer service
Guaranteed
www.rivercityatm.ca for locations near you
Dean R.


Hello Dean,

Krystal Frost is a regular contributor for the Tribune, her contact info is on our website, www.vallartatribune.com .
Dr. Lee is a paying advertiser, please visit his website http://www.sureresults.net/ to get it touch with him
I`ll have one of our representatives call you to set up an appointment to discuss your advertising needs.
Glad you like the paper, I look forward to having you as a regular reader and advertiser.


Hello David

I wrote last week about the omission of the DELTA AIRLINES telephone number in your publication

I am looking at this week’s paper and I see not only is Delta not listed, but UnitedAirlines is also missing-it would be nice to have these included in your Airline Contact List, since many people use these airlines...and especially today with the restrictions on baggage -- people sometimes need to check with their airline for baggage allowance and the cost of excess or oversize items if they purchase art itmes here in Vallarta.....I do not understand why you choose not to list two major airlines servicing this city.

Sincerely
Phyllis Robertson
1101 S Barbara Dr

Hello Phyllis,

The Airline listing has been updated to include both Delta and United.
Thanks for bringing it to our attention.





Hi


Would be nice to see pictures of the pier and to see how it is comming along.. and a little more daily news would make this paper a 10 out of 10

Jerry


Hi Jerry,

In next week´s issue we will cover Old Town. Our focus is shifting a bit as you may have noticed.

We encourage and appreciate any and all comments whether you´re a “local” or a tourist.




Hello !
I like the changes you are implementing so far.

LOVE this weeks editorial. Finally someone mentions the elephant in the room, regarding self-serving ‘charity’ events.

I see that the ‘reading’ online has changed this week, with links to each ‘article’, but not a download .entire paper link.

Are you no longer going to be able to click this weeks’ issue to view the whole paper, page by page?

Or will that just be for past weeks’ issues?

Thanks, and keep it up !
:o)

Dear Anonymous,

The Tribune is in favor of supporting genuine Charities and their causes.

If you are asked to donate or wish to become proactive in the community, we recommend investigating the authenticity and legal status of any charity before donating or getting involved. In other words, donate at your own risk.

We have made some changes to the website and the download option was temporarily disabled but has been restored.

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS

GREEN ANGELS:
078 - (322) 221 26 80

FIRE DEPARTMENT:
060 -- (322) 223 94 76 and 78

TOURISM
(322) 222 0242 or 01 800 446 3942

HARBOR MASTER:
(322) 224 1000, 224 0427

ENVIROMENTAL EMERGENCY CENTER (COETEA)
01 800 710 49 43

FEDERAL COMMISSION ELECTRICITY (CFE) 071 –
(322) 225 5555

CANADIAN CONSULATE
(322) 293 00 98 and 99

AMERICAN CONSULATE
(322) 222 0069
and (33) 3268 21 45

RED CROSS * 060

EMERGENCY * 060 and 066

IMMIGRATION * (322) 221 13 80
FEDERAL POLICE
(322) 290 0658 and 64

BUCERIAS POLICE
(329) 298 1020

PROFECO * 01 800 468 8722
MUNICIPAL CIVIL PROTECTION
(322) 224 77 01

PUBLIC SECURITY
066 & (322) 290 0507

SEAPAL VALLARTA
(322) 226 9191

RADIO TAXI * 299 37 06
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT OF PVR
(322) 221 1298 * (322) 221-1325
(322) 221-1537

AIRLINES:
AEROMEXICO
Plaza Genovesa Shopping
Ctr Loc 2 & 3
224-2777

MEXICANA
Villa Vallarta Shopping
Ctr Local G-18
224-8900

AIR CANADA
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
01 (800) 719-2827

ALASKA AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1350

CONTINENTAL AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1025

DELTA AIRLINES
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1032

AEROTRON
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1921

AEROMAR
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-0815

AMERICA WEST
Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Int Airport
221-1333

United Airlines
221-3264

GUSTAVO DIAZ ORDAZ
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Magement Office Line
221-1325

Directory

Cover Photo
Sue and Marie

Contributors:
Roberto Aceves • Shakti Baum • Marcela Castellanos • Michael R. Lee • Terence Reily • Sue and Marie • Krystal Frost • Jerry Lafferty • Polly Vicars • Hermes T. • Rich


Jesús Manuel Díaz Zurita
DIRECTOR

Rosario G. Alvarado Sánchez
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

David Plotz
MANAGING EDITOR
dplotz@vallartatribune.com

Letters to the Editor
editor@vallartatribune.org

Genaro Armando Díaz Gordillo
SALES MANAGER
gerencia@vallartatribune.com

Cynthia Estela Andrade Gtz.
DESIGNER
cisandra@vallartatribune.com
www.vallartatribune.com

Weekly publication edited, printed and distributed by Ediciones y Publicaciones Siete Junio, SA de CV Grupo Editorial Tribuna Calle 21 de Marzo # 1174 Col. Lomas del Coapinole Delegación El Pitillal,
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco México CP 48290

Tel. (322) 226-0829, 226-0800
Questions about Distribution: ventastribuna7@yahoo.com

Editorial

We keep receiving many inquiries and responses regarding charitable organizations. There seem to be many people in Puerto Vallarta opposed to the increasing number of such “alleged” charities. The Tribune is and always has been supportive of genuine and authentic charitable work. Becas Vallarta, Casa Hogar Cornejo, peacemexico.org to only mention a FEW, are amongst the legitimate charities that raise funds for worthwhile causes unlike some “fundraisers” in town that surely do raise funds but for their own benefit. To make a long story short, use common sense, investigate, and ask for documentation, photos and references before you consider donating any money, especially a larger amount. Better yet, volunteer to be part of any “hands on “in the field dealing with beneficiaries.

Please share your thoughts and experiences with us regarding the matter.

This is a special issue in my opinion as we shift focus a bit to the FUN stuff in PV, activities in and around Puerto Vallarta for all age groups, both local residents and visitors.

Puerto Vallarta is a very unique place, those of us lucky enough to live year know this to be true. It´s like a smorgasbord, beaches, mountains, hiking, biking, surfing, dancing etc, if you ever get bored here you just haven´t noticed you´re already dead.

Unfortunately, many of us haven´t, for one reason or another, experienced the variety of exciting opportunities to discover the true beauty of the area outside the city limits.

Puerto Vallarta is many times safer than just about any city in the U.S. Can you find trouble here looking for it? By all means! Use common sense and be polite.

Anybody that´s lived here for a while can attest to the safety in Puerto Vallarta.

We hope you enjoy this week´s issue.

Our Home is Your Home

We would like to extend special welcome to ALL visitors coming to our little paradise full of warm, friendly and hospitable folks from many parts of the world. Our representative at Gustavo Diaz Ordáz International Airport presents you with this complimentary copy of the Vallarta Tribune hoping it will be useful and informative besides making your vacation more enjoyable.
Whether you are visiting us from any of the Canadian provinces, United States or via a connecting flight from anywhere else in Mexico or the World, our representative is at the Airport to welcome you, Nuestra Casa es tu Casa! Bienvenidos.
We look forward to receiving any comments or experiences you may want to share with us and our readers.
Have a great time, hope to see you again soon.
Welcome!!

domingo, 27 de marzo de 2011

Ask a Realtor

Q: How do we meet people here, make friends and become part of the community? Joe K. Wisconsin

A: This can be a challenge for many new residents as they are moving to a different country with a different culture and language. So a good place to start might be to take a Spanish language class.

Yes, this is a tourist town and many of the locals speak English. There are plenty of long-time residents who have gotten by without speaking Spanish. But you want to thrive, not survive!

A basic Spanish vocabulary can always come in handy, and it can be a real pleasure to be conversational. Besides, understanding the language will give you a good insight to the culture and the Mexican way of thinking. Hint: “ahorita” does not necessarily mean “in just a minute”…

There are many Religious Services and 12 step meetings, a list is provided in this paper. Expats in Vallarta is an informal group is for Expats living around Vallarta or for those considering the area. They are meeting on Tuesday March 15th at 5:00pm at Langostino’s on Los Muertos Beach. Visit their website at www.expatsinvallarta.com

The Downtown Art Walk is held every Wednesday from 6PM-10PM. Fourteen different galleries host different events and this is a great way to meet the artists and art lovers. www.vallartaartwalk.com. The “Southside Shuffle” is another fun event on Olas Altas and Constitución Streets every other Friday from 6PM-10PM. The local Farmers Market is every Saturday from 10 am to 1pm at the new Paradise Community center at Pulpito #127.

Who can resist the sights and sounds of fresh coffee, bread and produce, and the great opportunity to make new acquaintances? There are also some great events this spring in our brand new air conditioned theater. http://www.teatrovallarta.com

You should also consider an active pursuit, enroll in yoga or Pilates class, learn to play tennis or golf, take a sailing or diving class, or just get out and take a stroll on the Malecón. And to keep up your energy, don’t forget to patronize the local shops, markets and restaurants. Vallarta is home to a plethora of amazing markets and world-class restaurants, and they could all use your patronage right now. Strike up a conversation with the proprietor and you may be surprised with the friendships you can make.

And as you discover special places, you will also begin to become a source of information for new arrivals and will have a topic to discuss. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, there has never been a better time to become involved with a charitable foundation. It is no secret that the economic slowdown has had a drastically negative economic impact on our beautiful town and there are many people in need.

There are wonderful opportunities to help children, animals, the needy and make our city a better, kinder place. Besides the feeling of well-being that can come from contributing, there is the added benefit of meeting some wonderful caring people and starting lasting friendships. One of the most active organizations in our bay is called PEACE; their website is: www.peacemexico.org.

Best of all, you are not limited to just one charity. I have many friends and clients who are involved in several. So get up, get out and find your passion!

And by this time next year you will be writing and asking, “How am I going to find enough hours in the day to…”
Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta? Just ask!

Michael Green here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Mike can be reached by e mail: pvgetaways@hotmail.com

ASK THE MORTAGE EXPERTS

With mortgages becoming more of the norm in Mexico and with ever-increasing loan options, The Tribune is helping sort through the confusion by having your personal Financing/Mortgage questions answered by our local experts – David Schwendeman and Terence Reilly, Founder’s of MEXLend, an industry-leading Mortgage Broker based in Vallarta. We invite you to e-mail your questions regarding buying or financing Real Estate in Mexico to buyinginmexico@hotmail.com.

Q: “Why are interest rates so high here? I would like to buy with a mortgage, but find it difficult with the rates. Paul, V, Minneapolis, MN

A: GREAT NEWS FOR YOU. Interest rates have just come down again—and they are wonderful rates for purchasing a second home. Rates are now starting as low as 5.25%! These are historically the lowest rates EVER available for the purchase of a Mexican property.

However, even with this reduction, they are slightly higher than the rates that are quoted from the US for primary residences. The key here are the words “primary residences.” Due to legalities, all US dollar mortgages for US citizens and Canadians must be declared as “second homes” or vacation homes.

There was a time when borrowers in the US would cheat by declaring secondary properties as primary residences to take advantage of a lower interest rate, but currently lenders are checking very closely and if caught, there are consequences: borrowers must either re-negotiate the mortgage for a higher term, or pay the lender off in full. Banks across the country are looking through their files for these cases. In the US, banks charge higher interest rates for second homes. The climate in the US has become extremely conservative and banks look at clients very carefully.

So why are rates higher for a vacation home? Because lenders know that if a borrower gets into financial trouble, the first property that will go back to the bank will be the vacation home. Borrowers will protect their initial investment in their primary residence because it is where they live, work and perhaps their children go to school; consequently, in the US, the borrower pays a higher interest rate as well as more closing points on a second or vacation home.

Another very important factor in higher interest rates is that second home mortgages and investment properties are not backed by the government.

The US government has created programs that help homeowners get low rates for their homes but these programs do not cover non-primary residences.

A third reason why mortgage rates are higher for a second home here is that we are in Mexico. Lending in a foreign country is considered more of a risk to the banks. There is a different legal mechanism for foreclosure and an entirely different type of court system. The costs of establishing the legal framework to lend and should the need arise, defend their loans, run higher outside of their home country.
However, every property owner in Mexico should take great comfort in that the mortgage interest rates have drastically lowered over the past six years.. This means that large institutional lenders are becoming more and more confident with the Mexican housing market, and trust the stability of the home values even in this global crisis. The foreclosure rate of Cross Border loans has been so miniscule that it has no effect on market valuations and is emboldening the banks.

The mortgage system in Canada works differently. Fixed rate mortgages are not the norm and most interest rates are re-negotiated every 3 or 5 years, which makes them what in the US is considered an Adjustable Rate Mortgage or ARM. However, this morning I logged onto the Royal Bank of Canada website and they DO have a 25 Year Fixed Rate Mortgage product-- The posted interest rate was 8.25%! This means that the current rate of 7.5% for Mexican properties is LESS by almost a full point than is offered in Canada.

We believe that there has never been a better time to buy your dream vacation home in Mexico.
There are some amazing deals, combined with a stable market and now…the lowest interest rates for mortgages. Speak to a mortgage broker to get prequalified and then run to your favorite realtor. It is a GREAT time to buy!

MEXLend, Inc. is a Mexican mortgage brokerage that currently represents 8 different lenders offering 75 different loan options in Dollars, Pesos and Euros for buyers looking to purchase vacation or investment property throughout Mexico – including products specifically for Canadian citizens. In announced results based upon post-closing client interviews conducted by Mexico’s largest US lender, MEXLend won the #1 mark of distinction for both client satisfaction and fastest closings for the second straight cycle. MEXLend can be reached at 322-132-7991 (in Vallarta), 917-779-9061 (while in the US or Canada), toll–free in Mexico by calling 1-800-3-Mi-Casa or go online at www.mexlend.com (For US and Euro loans) or www.mexlend.com.mx for Peso loans.