Vallarta Blog

The fabulous Bahia de Banderas is around 20 miles across, boasting over 40 miles of pristine coast with everything from white sand beaches to rocky cliffs that jut out over the ocean.  Thought to be the deepest bay in the world with a depth of more then two miles in many areas, Banderas Bay is one of the best places for snorkelling and scuba diving in Mexico.

The Sierra Madre Mountains protect the bay from allot of bad weather and its west facing location provides extra shelter from seasonal ocean storms. This part of the Pacific Ocean is comparable to more tropical locations, with warm clear aquamarine waters year round it is a ocean lovers paradise.

Within the depth of the oceans surface, a large variety of plants and sea life flourish,  rainbow coloured fish and dangerous looking anemones are just a couple of things that will be  seen when snorkelling or scuba diving in the area. With many different options for day tours, it is not hard to find a professional company to fit your experience level and budget.

Bahia de Banderas is home to 2 underwater marine parks, and many various beaches and natural reefs perfect for exploring ocean life. The more popular of the 2 marine parks is called Los Arcos, given this name because of a group of rock formations shaped into arches by the moving surf. Three small rocks grouped together form this beautiful natural wonder, an underwater tunnel that can be seen through and swam through.

The diversity of this underwater ecosystem is the perfect shelter for a wide range of sea life, like angelfish, moray eels, blowfish, parrotfish, lobster and even manta and stingrays. The ever impressive variety of marine life never fails to awe and intrigue visitors, both adult and children alike. A steep underwater cliff that goes from 20ft on one side to 2000ft on the other, in combination with the warm Pacific swells, force plankton to the oceans surface producing a rich feeding ground that attracts tremendous amounts and varieties of tropical fish.

Tres Marietas is a group of three small islands that mark the entrance to the Banderas bay, around 20 miles off of Puerto Vallarta’s coast, they are the peaks of a small underwater mountain range. Because they are situated in the mouth of the bay, the pacific current reaches them first before anywhere else in the bay, therefore the sea life is larger and more like what you would view on nature television programs.

Just recently named as a protected marine reserve, Tres Marietas is a sanctuary for many different fish and marine mammals. Dolphins, whales, giant manta rays, tropical fish and ancient sea turtles all can be seen in their natural habitat, circling the always beautiful coral reefs which take many years to form.

Jacque Cousteau once did a documentary on the Banderas bay and its amazing ecosystem, documenting and studying the humpback whales that migrate to the area every year. A constant source of interest in the marine biology world, this area is a favourite for snorkellers, scuba divers and underwater enthusiasts.

Visit Puerto Vallarta and discover all the adventure and sea life this tropical paradise holds. With warm water and crystal waves, the Bahia de Banderas holds vacation fun for all ages.
 

September is the slowest month of the year here in Puerto Vallarta. With tourism at is lowest, many businesses close their doors and take a vacation. Why not, with so few visitors in the city, it is the best month to take some time off.

Although many bussinesses are closed, there are still dozens of places to choose from that do stay open and people do still come here on vacation during this slow time. The fact that tourism is at its slowest right now allows for a much less crowded view of this beautiful city. For example, the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, especially the most popular in the Olas Altas area are virtually empty in comparison to the usual hordes of people that line the soft sand in sunbathing bliss.

Many art galleries, restaurants and shops lower there prices to encourage sales during this slow time, meaning discounts and opportunities to experience tours that might not be within your budget during the high season. Resorts, hotels and spas feature special packages and it is easy to find deals that would be double the price during the more popular time of year.

With a lot of the bigger more popular restaurants closed for yearly renovations it is the perfect opportunity to try out some of the smaller less known places. Who knows, you might just find a new favorite taco stand or a better steak then you would have imagined in one of the small local eateries.

This time of year is referred to as the “rainy season” but this doesn’t mean it rains all the time, in fact it usually only rains in the evenings for a few hours, allowing for daytime sunshine and all the activities that require this. When it does rain it is very refreshing as it cools down the hot city and takes away the scorching humidity.

The ocean this time of year is at is very warmest here in the Bahia de Banderas making it hard to resist. Not only is it warm but also very calm much of the time, making great visibility for snorkeling and scuba diving and perfect for kayaking and jet skis.

With the ocean so warm and calm, the fishing season is going off right now here in P.V., local fisherman and touring companies are hauling in some record catch, not to mention spending a day on the open ocean can be an exciting experience for everyone.

This month the city of Puerto Vallarta is doing some promotion to stir up a little extra business, featuring September as Tourism Month there are special cultural and sporting events scheduled as well as the “Festival of Vallartan Regional Cuisine” running from September 23rd to 30th at ten participating restaurants.

So you see, although it is “low season” and “rainy season” this can be the best time of year to vacation here in paradise. Lower prices and less crowds can mean the vacation of a lifetime for  all those who choose to visit this tropical city, that is closer to the sleepy little fishing village of its past during this slow time.

Puerto Vallarta’s Independence Day celebrations went off with a big bang Saturday night on the Malecon. People of all ages lined the street, in commemoration of 190 years of   Independence from Spain.

There were so many people at the arches and outdoor amphitheater area of the Malecon, it was virtually impossible to pass through the crowd. With a giant fireworks display and live music on every corner, the authentic Mexican fiesta was exciting and busy.

Everywhere you looked, Mexican flags were waving and red white and green was the theme for the evening. Many people wore traditional Mexican clothing, beautiful expensive sombreros and colorful woven garments, small children dressed up in their finest, armed with noisemakers and treats.

In the vendor area you could have your choice of everything from fruit to crepes, candy, juices, elotes, popcorn and tacos, all lined up for snacking pleasure and visual satisfaction. The usual men and women selling jewelry and small toys joined by vendors with flashing light toys, sombreros, party favors, kids toys and even more flags.

The fireworks display lasted at least half an hour, starting off with a stationary show that spun with colorful sparks and ended with dozens of majestic bursts exploding above the Malecon. When the fireworks ended the crowd moved slowly along the road, an ocean of people going in all directions.

Many bars and clubs had special events for the evening, especially the ones located on the Malecon. Packed to capacity, people partied on into the wee hours of the morning dancing and having an all around good time. All the restaurants in that area were full on what I am sure was the busiest night of the month for local businesses.

September being the slowest month of the year here in Puerto Vallarta, the Independence Day celebration was a nice break to the mellow atmosphere as of lately. Although it did rain earlier in the evening, the weather was perfect for an outdoor fiesta and a lot of fun was had by all who attended the events in the central part of town.

Protected by the Sierra Madre Mountains, Puerto Vallarta is one of the few places in Mexico that has low to no worries about hurricanes, earthquakes and other major nature threats.

In the last years, the weather has changed dramatically, messing up any pattern established for the local weather each year. It doesn’t rain when it should and then it rains for days when at least expected. This is a new phenomenon that Mexico and the world will have to confront with innovative ideas, because farmers are losing their crops, flights are being delayed too many times and worst of all, people might want to relocate their homes on the beach to safer places if they want to be spared from dangerous storms, hurricanes or earthquakes.

No matter what weather conditions are forecast for Vallarta, the local people will celebrate this day as if there was no tomorrow. It’s called “The Fiesta” of the year, because there is no other holiday like this where almost everything is allowed.

Many people might have an umbrella ready for the stormy weather, but it wont do any good against the kids spraying everybody full with foam, water and eggs… Cars wrapped in toilette paper accompanied by masses of happy celebrating Mexicans shouting “Viva Mexico!!!” could be the start of a day with no limits, no matter what storm, hurricane, or earthquake might approach.

The only thing we can predict is that today, the 15^th of September 2007 will be a loud, exciting day with a lot of Mexican energy on the streets. If you are on vacation and don’t mind some crazy happy party, come to the Malecón downtown, to experience the unique Mexican fiesta atmosphere.

Expect everything else than a boring day today!

(And don’t forget your umbrella!)

Be prepared to celebrate here in Puerto Vallarta and all over Mexico this weekend. In Spanish September is known as “El Mes de la Patria”, “The Month of the Mother country”.

This year Mexico celebrates 190 years of independence from Spain; in a culture rich with tradition this is the most important event every year. Throughout Mexico people celebrate their patriotism with parades, parties and most importantly the Mexican flag and national colors. Red, green and white can be seen everywhere, from decorative banners and ribbons, to traditional clothes and piñatas.

Mexican Independence day weekend is not only a party, but a celebration to commemorate the most important part of Mexico’s history an event which moulded past, present and future generations of Mexicans forever. Not unlike the fourth of July or Canada day; country wide independence day festivities take place every year in Mexico on the 15th and 16th of September.

Here in Puerto Vallarta there will be a parade on the Malecon and festive events throughout town. Restaurants have special menus with dishes of red, green and white; traditional Mole Poblano, Chiles en Nogada, Guacamole and chips and salsa Mexicana.

Live mariachi bands will be playing in the plaza and vendors will be selling treats like Mexican candies and ponche; a punch made from seasonal fruits such as guayabas and sugarcane. Most businesses and homes will have flags and decorations and everyone is charged with a festive energy. Bars will have live music and special drinks, everywhere you go it will be a fiesta!

Forget Cinco de Mayo, Mexican Independence day is “the” party here in Vallarta and all over Mexico. So if you want to experience a real Mexican fiesta and want to understand more of the authentic culture of this beautiful country, come visit Puerto Vallarta for this, once a year celebration of Mexican history and patriotism.

Moderate earthquake rattles residents of Mexico’s Puerto Vallarta; no injuries reported.

A lot of newspapers online are reporting on the 5.2 earthquake on wednesday night, I cant say that I actually felt it here in Puerto Vallarta, in fact I for sure didnt feel it. I havent heard anything about it locally and no one else seems to have felt it????

On an off note, notice this article first states that preliminary measurement of the earthquake was 4.9 then goes on to say the preliminary measurement was 5.2, which one was it?? .3 definately isnt much to be finicky about, more so I am wondering; how come nobody who lives here felt it?

HHHmmmmmmmm……also there is absolutely no local coverage on this earthquake and no local coverage of anyone “in the street” because of it.

MEXICO CITY– A moderate earthquake rattled a long stretch of Mexico’s Pacific coast late Wednesday, sending panicked residents into the streets. There were no immediate reports of damages or injuries.

The quake, with a preliminary magnitude of 4.9, happened at 10:42 p.m. local time and was centered offshore 50 miles west of Manzanillo, a city on the coast of the state of Colima, the U.S. Geological Survey reported. It struck about 6 miles beneath the ocean floor.

Mexican officials measured the preliminary magnitude at 5.2. It was felt as far north as the Pacific resort city of Puerto Vallarta, about 170 miles north of Manzanillo.

“It was felt strongly, but fortunately there is no damage, just a bit of alarm in the community,” said Nicolas Mendoza, an official with the civil protection department for the state of Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta is located.

The Bahia de Banderas (Bay of Flags), home to Puerto Vallarta Mexico, is the second largest bay in the world and has some of the most amazingly beautiful beaches in North America.

With around 25 miles of protected coast the variety of settings are diverse and even surreal at times. Choose from powdery white sand shorelines to tropical jungle paradise. Everything from natural reefs that provide awesome snorkelling and scuba areas to secret surfs spots, this is most definitely a tropical paradise.

No wonder so many people love to vacation in the Puerto Vallarta area, many of which return year after year. The aquamarine Pacific Ocean is more then bearable in the winter and comparable to a warm bath in the summer, providing fresh relief on those hot humid days. Great for taking a quiet morning stroll along the pristine coast or relax in front of the picture perfect sunset, how could you not love Puerto Vallarta Mexico!

With such a large span of area that meets the ocean, these beaches are an ocean lover’s wonderland. Even if you don’t love getting in the ocean, there are many other sports and adventures to choose from!

Learn more about the ancient mammals who still swim the earth, migrating back to these warm waters through the months of October-march. You can go on a private whale watching tour for a day or swim with the dolphins in their natural environment.

Go scuba diving with one of the bays many professional companies that offer lessons and dives for every level of experience including certification courses. Snorkel with the fishes and discover the amazing underwater world and all the beauty it holds, everything from underwater marine parks and estuaries to reefs and the open ocean. There are a huge selection of tour companies to choose from, pick the one that is right for your budget and interests. A great family experience that is sure to excite and enthral people of any age group!

Try out your kayaking skills and skim along the sea top as smooth as a dolphin, great for building arm strength and visiting quiet secluded places. Offered on allot of day tours and by several different companies many of which provide food and drinks along with outside entertainment.

Hook up with one of the fishing tours and try your hand at catching your dinner! Many of these tours will also clean and prepare your catch for you; can’t get much fresher then that!

For those speed demons out there, rent a Jet Ski and cruise around the bay. Available from most resorts and on many of the beaches in Puerto Vallarta, ask your concierge or the events coordinator at the place you are staying. State of the art machines that can be for one two or three people.

For the daredevil in us all, try out parasailing. Available on almost every beach in Puerto Vallarta and at many hotels and resorts. The people who offer parasailing are professional and very well practiced at what they do so no need to be afraid!

And for all those soul searchers, the bay has some of the best Surfing and windsurfing in Mexico. Surfboard rentals and lessons are available throughout the bay in the best surf locations, again ask your concierge or simply just go to Punta de Mita, one of the hottest surf spots in the bay.

So whether you want to take it easy or are out for some adventure and exercise, there is something for everyone on the beaches of Bahia de Banderas and the Puerto Vallarta area, most definately a recommeneded family vacation location.
 

Responding to numerous requests Puerto Vallarta-based MexLend, an industry-leading mortgage broker in Mexico, is thrilled to announce two new mortgage programs for Canadian Citizens allowing them to purchase their dream home, villa or condo in Mexico.

“We are ecstatic with the introduction of yet another fund option available for Mexican properties,” stated David Schwendeman, co-founder and COO of MexLend. “Our Canadian clients have been asking for programs geared for them and we are thrilled to be able to deliver.”

MexLend has secured the following loan options for Canadian Citizens. One program offers 80% financing (20% down) for qualified borrowers with a starting Interest Rate 9.25 %. The other program offers 60% financing (40% down) for qualified borrowers with a starting Interest Rate 7.50 %. “Our goal at MexLend is to keep adding new loan and fund options for our customers. By offering the most lenders and more options in Mexico than our competitors, we are able to offer our clients programs that better match their needs and financial situation,” added Terence Reilly, CEO of Mexlend.

As recently as three years ago, your options to purchase a home in Mexico were limited to paying cash or to mortgages with extremely high interest rates. Within the past year, many lending options have opened up to foreigners seeking a mortgage, but only one Mortgage Broker – MexLend – has been singled out for customer service. In recently 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. Time and time again, Mexlend was praised for their attention to detail, ease of process and timeliness. Forging partnerships with banks, private lenders, title insurance agencies and attorneys has afforded MexLend the unique ability to streamline the mortgage process in Mexico. Many brokers will make a claim of their ranking and closings; make sure they have the back up to support their claims.

MexLend is not limited to mortgages for Puerto Vallarta, as they can offer their award-winning services and multiple loan options for purchasing property in any city, town or resort area throughout Mexico – in US Dollars or Pesos – to refinance a current loan or simply cash out on existing equity. For additional information, log onto www.mexlend.com

Article copied from VirtualVallarta.com

Tomorrow, September third at Plaza Caracol the St.Florians Boy’s Choir will be performing for the citizens of Puerto Vallarta.

A world renowned show, this tradition laden chorus is currently on a international tour, attendance here in Vallarta is expected to be in the thousands for this special event.

Tickets are being sold for $300 pesos each and include free parking in the plaza. Organizers of this event include the Puerto Vallarta Rotary Club, Desarrollo Integral de la Familia (DIF) and the Puerto Vallarta Department of Culture.

The St.Florian Boys Choir dates back to 1071, thought to have been started by the monks of Augustiner Chorherren a monastery in Dürnstein, area of Wachau, Lower Austria. Many musicians have come from the ranks of the SFSK, the most famous being the composer Anton Bruckner, whose name is forever connected with St.Florian.

The director since 1983, Franz Farnberger studied music at Vienna University and continued on to be musical director of the Vienna Boys Choir form 1976-1983. While under his direction the St.Florians Choir has gone on many world tours, recorded cd’s and even been on television. Internationally acclaimed they travel and sing in many different places including music festivals and famous opera houses.

Until very recently the Boys Choir’s sole duties were providing music for the church and convent. Today the choir has many different responsibilities although church music is still the main focus for the group. On high Holidays they join with another choir and an orchestra and under the direction of Augustinus Franz Kropfreiter sing mass.

All the proceeds of the event are to be donated to DIF and they want to put the money towards one of their many projects, a care facility for seniors which will include medical personal. The first of its kind here in Puerto Vallarta, the hope is that it will become a positive model for other cities in Mexico. So, not only will this be a spectacular event but it will also be benefiting people who need help the most. Please come, spend the evening, enjoy and help to provide care for seniors who need it.

Details:
Exhibition Area – Plaza Caracol
Plaza Caracol, Hotel Zone
September 3rd, 9:00pm
Cost: $300 pesos (General Admission)
Ticket Sales: Department of Culture, DIF municipal,
Inside Plaza Caracol and the Office of Municipal Tourism

For more information, please call DIF at 225-9936 or Puerto Vallarta’s Culture Center

Villa Del Palmer flamingos sits on the front of a gorgeous white sand beach in Nuevo Vallarta, Bahia de Banderas (Bay of Flags). Just a short 20 minute ride away from downtown Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta is in the state of Nayarit bordering Jalisco.

Although very close there is actually a one hour time difference between the two states, but this isn’t much of a problem as most business’s go by Vallarta time to keep things easy.

This beautiful Mexican resort, literally within a stones throw to the ocean, has the finest sandy beach. Aquamarine water brings to mind cool tropical oceans, the perfect place for everything from a leisurely paddle to a speedy jet ski ride.

With a variety of activities available it is very hard to get bored in a place like this. Adults visiting villa Del Palmar Flamingos Resort Vallarta have full access to the double level swimming pool. If the open ocean is what you are looking for, go for a snorkel in the  beautiful Bahia de Banderas, home to thousands of tropical fish and sea creatures.

Enjoy windsurfing or work off last night’s dessert in Aerobics class. If you are in the mood for a little rest and relaxation take advantage of the resorts European style spa, offering many different luxurious treatments.

While you are at the spa there is no need to worry about the kids, Villa Del Palmar Flamingos has special children’s activities directed towards their age group (4-12). With an individual area that includes a pool, they will have a blast in the kids program, making new friends and learning all about the fish and animals the bay is home to. Aimed at keeping the young ones happy doing what they like to do best, this program helps everyone to have fun filled vacations.

If all this isn’t enough choose from the many other activities for adults and children available close to the resort. Send the men off fishing and do a little souvenir shopping at one of the authentic local boutiques, after a round of golf take in a colourful tropic sunset from the deck of a luxury boat. Ride along the sandy beach on horseback or be towed high above the bay for a birds eye view while parasailing, sure to excite any daredevil!

After all that fun in the sun and the fresh ocean air you are sure to be hungry! All Villa Del Palmar Flamingos vacation rentals are fully furnished with in suite kitchenettes or full-size kitchens. Cook up your favourite recipes after hitting up the on-resort grocery store. Don’t like to cook or just don’t feel like it; try out one or all four of the restaurants on the resort. Everything from traditional Mexican food to French fine dining, there is something for everyone’s tastes.

With so many choices of vacation rentals and resorts in Nuevo Vallarta, let Villa Del Palmar Flamingos make it easy for you. Four star quality at less then half the price and all the fun and sun you can handle, Villa Del Palmer Flamingos offers more activities for adults and children then any other resort of its kind. So whether you are wanting to kick back read a book and get a massage, or you want to teach your kids how to swim, this resort has the best options for a fantastic family vacation.

Those of us who live here in Puerto Vallarta know that September is the month many local  shops and businesses choose to close for vacation. Allot of the time this means everything from “gone fishing”  to catching up on building maintenance and repair.

What people refer to as “Low Season” has arrived in Vallarta. The Mexican tourism is tapering off and The winter tourists are yet to arrive. 

Many People take advantage of this “slow” time to expand and renovate their business, while others really do go on a true  vacation. Whatever the reason may be, a few favourite restaurants will be closed this month.

The list of closures is as follows:
Barcelona Tapas-open Sept.14th
Bocabento-open sometime in October
El Arrayan-open Sept.12th
Mestizo-open Oct.1st
Le Bistro-open Oct.1st
Hacienda Alemania-open Sept.23rd
Don Pedro’s-open Oct.1st
Archies Wok-open Oct.1st
Thierry Blouet Cocina de Autor-open Oct.2nd
Asaderos-open mid Oct.
Luise and Luc, breakfast at Mama Dolores-open mid Oct.
Mariscos polo-closed Aug.20th to Sept.5th
Encanto-open Oct.1st
La Tia Catrina-open Oct.1st will reopen in new location on Bassilio Badillo

There are many great restaurants here in Puerto Vallarta that will stay open this month, a great time to try out a new eatery. We hope everyone has excellent vacations and we are looking forward to experiencing all the new features business’s here in P.V. are working on this month.