An Inclusive Beach on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast

by Mexi-Go!/May 24, 2013

Now the Mexican Caribbean is for everyone to enjoy; absolutely everyone, including the disabled.

On February 14, Mexico’s first ever inclusive beach was unveiled in the municipality of Solidaridad, Quintana Roo. Located just a stone’s throw from Playa del Carmen, Cancún, the pyramids of Tulum, the cenotes (underwater sinkholes) and water parks of the Mayan Riviera, this stretch of beach invites disabled people from all over the world to come and bask in the sun, sand and infinite shades of blue and green of the Caribbean.

To facilitate access, the local government had ramps made. Loungers, bicycles and walking frames are available for those who require them, and there is a special service module for the rental of beach towels.

The hope is that inclusive developments such as these will become common place along the Mayan Riviera and in all major resort areas.

www.solidaridad.gob.mx

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Tags beach,inclusive

Prison Dolls: Building upon hardship

by Madeline/May 22, 2013

If you had plenty of free time on your hands, what would you do? For a large percentage of todays population retirement is a reality and free time is plentiful. For many travel, philanthropy and family will take priority, but imagine if your life was turned upside down and you didn`t get the freedom to make these choices. That`s what happened to Rebecca Roth.

A successful business owner in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Rebecca got snared in an unjust legal battle that ultimately saw her imprisoned (and later exonerated) for over four years in the Reclusorio Feminil of Puente Grande near Guadalajara. This women`s prison would be her home and the crux of her new found `free time’. Not diminishing that emotionally and physically this experience took its toll on Rebecca, what came out of the experience was a new found passion and an opportunity to take on challenges otherwise lost to time constraints and pressures of life in general.

Imprisoned with Rebecca was the infant daughter of a woman who became pregnant while in jail. Children born in jail can remain with their mothers up to 3 years of age. Little Lupita was adored by all in the communal cell but none had the capacity to give this child a toy that was more than an empty pop bottle. Realizing she wasn’t going anywhere fast and she needed an outlet for her anger and depression, Rebecca took it upon herself to use time wisely. The prison offered many classes and so she went back to school to learn Spanish, taught English to the other women and took sewing classes. One day, armed with some scraps of material and a needle and thread, Rebecca crafted a doll for Lupita. This doll and a blossoming relationship with one of her English students, Esme, started what would soon become the Original Friends Dolls (trademarked in Mexico in February 2011). While in prison Rebecca, Esme and the other woman crafted and sold over one hundred dolls. Today many hundreds of these beautiful works of art have been sold. Available for purchase online and at the many artisan markets in Lake Chapala and around the Bay of Banderas as well as at the Feria de Maestros del Arte each year in Ajijic, each doll is a unique one-of-a-kind creation, numbered, signed and named. About 85% of the materials are donated, found and up cycled. Each woman is paid for their work every Friday and remaining profit is divided equally between Esme and Rebecca, the two founders of the project. Approximately one doll a week is hand made by each woman. Rebecca continues to create dolls but finds herself with increasingly less time as her travels and commitment to managing the production and sale of the dolls leads her back to the regular clock of us working stiffs. Ask Rebecca today about her experience and you`ll find a warm hearted woman with an honest face that speaks with little bitterness and only a tinge of sadness.

‘I believe I was given opportunities for things I always wanted to do in my life, such as having my art exhibited in a world-renowned gallery…or publishing three books of poetry. These are all lifelong dreams of mine, accomplished ironically during the severe hardship of incarceration in a foreign prison.’

After being released in March of 2010, Rebecca continues to live in Mexico where her sister and children remained and she continues with the Original Friend Doll project both as a source of income and as a means to help the women within the prison to survive and fight their own legal battles. Today, with the help of women still incarcerated and a few that have continued to create dolls after being released, these little ‘ambassadors for liberty and justice’ are sold to collectors world-wide. Esme remains incarcerated but has not lost hope as she still has a final appeal remaining.

According to Rebecca,‘The project has grown beyond all expectations because it goes full circle.

It provides a creative outlet and good income to the women who make the dolls; many who have never been encouraged to be artistic. It’s great stress relief as well during those long months and years of waiting in legal limbo.
It provides motivation to people who have an excess of materials, to clean out their boxes, bins, and drawers and donate the materials to a good purpose.
The dolls themselves provide joy and since each doll is signed by its maker, the new owner “knows” the doll artist and can remember her when they pass by the doll on its shelf, mantle, or bed. The colors and designs attract customers to the farmers market stands, where the dolls seem to pick out their new owners!’ Rebecca even receives photos of the dolls in their new settings from all over the world.

If you wish to purchase a doll, visit them on facebook: Originalfriendsdolls/prison project… Don’t forget to like and share photo albums with your contacts. For more information: www.prisondolls.com or www.mexicoartshow.com For special orders call (in US and Canada) 503-278-8367. In Mexico: (011-52) 387-761-0519 or 322-222-1754. Email: originalfriendsdolls@gmail.com

These dolls are also available at the Paradise Community Centre Co-Op market each Saturday.

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Tags dolls

Debunking 10 Mexico Myths

by Aaron Fisher/May 20, 2013

Tell anyone you are traveling to Mexico, and you’ll get one of two reactions:jealousy or shock. For those who understand that Mexico is a beautiful country for travel and residence, they won’t be surprised that over 500,000 Canadians live here part- or full-time. But for those who believe the negative propaganda, it’s time to debunk the 10 Mexico myths.

Drugs are everywhere in Mexico – Despite the fact that drugs can be found anywhere in the world, Mexico does get the lion’s share of bad publicity because of its drug cartels. However, the Mexican government is spending billions of pesos to battle drug trafficking and cartel wars. Rest assured,many of México’s destination areas are safe from incidents. In fact, a 2011 study by Thomas Dale & Associates (TDA), “Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest tourist destinations for international and national tourists.” Travel Agent Central notes “Overall the study found that visitors to the destination feel safe and continue to visit Puerto Vallarta numerous times through their lifetime and that the destination’s support services are well above the average standards and dedicated to serving the visiting public.” Travel Agent Centrals goes on to state, “In relations to the drug wars, TDA found that the limited land transit makes the smuggling of guns and drugs through Puerto Vallarta very difficult and thus a non-issue in the destination.”
Mexico is too far for me to live – With international airports in major cities around Mexico, it isn’t difficult to get around. You can leave the snow and ice and plant yourself beachside, enjoying the sun, surf and sand in a matter of hours from the United States and Canada.
I could be stuck without proper healthcare –Mexico has some of the finest medical institutions and facilities in the world. Canadians and Americans come here for medical treatments that would normally take months or years to receive. For a fraction of the cost, patients are treated to the best quality care from highly trained physicians working in state-of-the-art facilities.
Montezuma’s Revenge will take its toll on me in Mexico –What’s commonly referred to as Montezuma’s Revenge is also known as “Traveler’s Diarrhea”. While it’s always smart to wash your hands before meals and disinfect produce with a bio-friendly solution, all tourist destinations provide safe water for their guests. Puerto Vallarta, for instance, has the most advanced water treatment facility south of the border. Some of PV’s residents even get their water straight from the tap. However, all hotels and restaurants use purified water and ice. Should Montezuma’s Revenge claim you, there are over-the-counter treatments that will get you back on holiday within 24 hours.
Mexican taxis could be the end of me – While it’s true that Mexican taxi drivers do like to zip and zoom their way around town, they will get you to your destination safely. In my 10 years of living in Puerto Vallarta, I’ve seen very few taxi-related accidents. Sure, you’ll speed up and down the streets, but your adventure will include one more story to share once you’ve returned home.
I could be kidnapped in Mexico – The chances of this are next to nil, but for your peace of mind, it’s always best to travel with someone else or within a group. Keep emergency phone numbers handy.
Crime is everywhere – Although it is considered the friendliest city in the world, Puerto Vallarta is not exempt from crime. There is a high presence of city, state and national police, but of the few criminal acts that take place here, most are petty acts. It’s always wise to keep an eye on your belongings and look your doors. Should an emergency arise, contact the local authorities.
Someone could steal my identity if I use a bank card – Your identity can be stolen at anytime in any country. If you plan to use your credit or debit card during your stay, be aware of your surroundings. Keep copies of all card numbers and service numbers in a separate location in case you need to call for questions or emergencies.
I’m going to have to pay bribes in Mexico– Mordidas, meaning “little bites”, are known as small bribes made to law enforcement.While mordidas have been a part of Mexican culture for generations, the government is working to rid the system of these payoffs. Travelers are advised to keep a stash of smaller denominations ($100-200 pesos) in a separate location in case you’re pulled over and “invited” to make a contribution. If you’re stopped, you can pay or ask to speak to a commanding officer.
Buying a home in Mexico is expensive– The cost of living in Mexico is much less than it is in Canada. If you’re in the market to buy a home, there is something for every budget. What could cost millions back home would cost much less here in Mexico, especially for beachside or ocean view residences. That is why many Canadians are taking advantage of real estate opportunities and buying primary or secondary homes south of the border.

Sources:

http://www.travelagentcentral.com/puerto-vallarta/study-puerto-vallarta-one-safest-tourist-destinations-29128

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Tags mexican myths,travel

Life is all Smooth Jazz

by Madeline/May 18, 2013

A slight man whose lungs can bring an audience to their feet, Bryan Savage has had a long and successful career playing sax and flute for some of the greats including Al Stewart, John Denver and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Originally starting out on the clarinet it became obvious to the teen-age Bryan that to get in with the local rock bands he would need to switch to the ‘cooler’ saxophone. Then in his early 20’s he took up the flute and combining these two instruments he found near immediate success working with Al Stewart among many acclaimed musicians.

Originally out of Colorado, Bryan and his wife Michelle made the semi-permanent move to La Cruz three years ago when Michelle was able to retire full time. Recovering from a triple bypass, the thought was to take it easy in a life of semi-retirement but, as is often the case here in Mexico, plans change and Bryan is now playing three to four shows a week around the Bay. La Cruz is recognized as a hot spot for international musicians and nearly every night sees live music in the local restaurants and bars. With the new marina, La Cruz is now a stopping off point for many adventurous travelers that add another level of vibrancy to the community. Combined with a fantastic weekend farmers market and a beautiful marina walkway, La Cruz is the perfect retirement destination for the Savages.

Locally known for his band the Banderas Bay Jazz All-Stars, Bryan along with Chaz Eller, Steve York and LazaroPoey play shows around the bay but have exclusivity at the Paradise Community Centre in Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town. Having just wrapped the last show of the season, Bryan and Michelle are going to have a mini.stay-cation before heading up North to Colorado where he will join the Nitty Gritty Dirt band for some shows, as well as attend a couple of Jazz festivals and other commitments. The Banderas Bay Jazz All-Stars will be back playing live music in November. Be sure to add them to your must-sees for next season.

Perhaps the most memorable impression I took away from the recent Banderas Bay Jazz All-Stars concert was the way in which Bryan plays the flute. Wrongly assuming it is an instrument for pretty girls in junior high school, Bryan has taken this delicate instrument and added a complicated system of effects pedals to generate sounds that are completely unique to his playing and have convinced me that the flute is an instrument of considerable power. Equally impressive is his prowess on the saxophone. Demonstrating over forty years of professional experience the crowd of admirers at the Paradise Community Centre gave the Bryan and all the members of the band a standing ovation.

During high season you may have seen Bryan outside of Puerto Vallarta playing at Ossos in La Cruz on Thursday evenings or at Sonora a la Padilla in Bucerias on Tuesdays. Occasionally Bryan also plays the San Pancho Polo Club in a dinner concert style. Keep an eye on his website for next years schedule. www.bryansavage.com

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS YOU MAYBE DIDN’T KNOW YOU HAD

Biggest lesson learned in your move to Mexico – Extra diligence is needed with any financial transactions.

Best part of your daily routine - 2+ mile walk along the beach and through the Marina in La Cruz from our condo.

Favourite secret spot in the area - Destiladeras Beach. Not that secret but it’s surprising that it is not more discovered.

Best deal to be had in Mexico - The food at the La Cruz Farmer’s Market–not that it’s that cheap but it’s great to find so much good stuff in one spot, including things we can’t get down here at the super market.

Best line to avoid the timeshare sharks? “We live here, but we’ll go on your tour anyway for $500 usd.”

Why did you choose to live in La Cruz? We love the Marina walk, views, local beach, and proximity to Destiladeras Beach. This beach reminded us of the beaches just north of Malibu CA, except it’s warmer and cheaper to own here!

How do you feel about your personal safety? It seems as safe in La Cruz as where we live in the summer in the Aspen CO area, which is pretty safe.

Have you had experience relying on the healthcare system? The doctors I’ve seen down here seem to be very good, and you can’t beat an average of $50 usd for a doctor’s visit, even a specialist–great prices on tests, etc. too! Plus it’s so easy to get an appointment when you want it! We try to get as much of that kind of thing done down here before we leave to go North.

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Tags retiree

Growth in Mexico

by Mexi-Go!/May 16, 2013

Translated by Michelle Mayer

Impacted by the weakness in the U.S. economy, Mexico’s economy continued to grow moderately in the early part of 2013. However, both countries are still expected to improve during the second half of this year, according to an analysis by HSBC.

“For 2013, we forecast a 3.2% growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). We expect moderate growth in the first half of 2013, followed by stronger growth in the second half of this year.”

The International Monetary Fund (IMF), through its World Economic Outlook in April, slightly adjusted its GDP estimate of Mexico from 3.5 to 3.4%.

Additionally, the IMF cut its world economic growth expectations from 3.5 to 3.3% for 2013, a less favorable prognosis.

HSBC analysts’ expectations for the current year include a dual speed economic growth after a weak start.

Economic indicators “show that recent Mexican moderate growth in the second half of 2012 could continue during the first half of 2013. We see a rebound in the second half of 2013″.

Real GDP grew by a healthy 3.9% in 2012, but at different rates: 4.7% in the first half and 3.2% in the second half of the year. “We expect this pattern to repeat in 2013 but in the opposite direction. Our GDP forecast of 3.2% assumes a stronger second half of 2013,” said HSBC analysis.

“Our expected path for GDP in 2013 is governed by two factors”:

1) The forecast by HSBC economists of a U.S. GDP growth of 1.7% this year – with a lower growth rate in the first half of 2013 followed by a stronger second half of the year.

2) Domestically, the start of a new government could affect economic growth in the first half of 2013, particularly because a change in administration involves delays in the implementation of some projects, especially infrastructure.

Current economic news details a Mexican economy with very moderate growth. Alternatively, there is just reason for much optimism concerning the future of the Mexican economy which could be bolstered by proposed economic reforms that are currently in negotiation.

(Ricardo Vazquez / Mexican Business Web)

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Tags finance,investment

Gardenia 203 Punta Esmeralda

by Mexi-Go!/April 22, 2013

Bucerías, Nayarit

USD $ 359,000

This lovely 2-bedroom condo with a horizontal layout has maximum views of Banderas Bay from its welcoming curved balcony. It is located within the renowned oceanfront residential resort of Punta Esmeralda with easy access to the property’s stretch of 1,500 feet of beach. Offered with an attractive and complete furniture package including appliances, dishes and good linens (excluding art).

Includes valuable extras such as a huge storage locker and two parking spaces. Premium finishes include marble floors, granite counter tops, marble bathroom vanities, tempered glass shower enclosures, PVC window casings. Resident amenities include 8 pools, 2 tennis courts, spa, gym and beach club.

Click here to learn more…

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Tags bucerias,condominium,oceanfront

Michelada

by Mexi-Go!/April 22, 2013

The Michelada is like a Ceasar but made with beer. It’s the perfect afternoon snack on a hot day. I say snack because it’s like a meal in a glass. Depending on where you are in Mexico they can be called by many different names including CieloRojo, and Chelada. Often it doesn’t come with Clamato unless you ask. And sometimes it comes garnished with fruit, salad, tamarind straws, celery and spicy peppers

We like ours limey and spicey but each to their own!

3 limes, squeezed and with the pulp scraped loose

Coarse salt

2 dashes Worcestershire sauce

1 dash soy sauce

5 dashes Valentina’s sauce

1 pinch black pepper or steak seasoning

1 dash Maggi seasoning,

12 ounces beer, preferably something Mexican

4-6 ounces Clamato Juice

michelada con camarones 198x300 Michelada

Michelada with shrimp

Salt the rim of your glass

Add plenty of ice

Add all the spices and sauces

Add the lime and the lime pulp

Add the beer and clamato.

Taste and continue doctoring until it’s perfect for you!

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Tags michelada

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

by Mexi-Go!/April 20, 2013

with Cat Morgan

The Riviera Nayarit is becoming one of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico. An alluring place of beauty where the jungle meets the Pacific ocean with beautiful beaches that stretch for miles. Great surfing and SUPing (Stand Up Paddle), kite boarding and wind surfing, along with just about every activity you could dream of doing on a Mexico vacation is here on this Pacific Coast, also known as the Mexican Riviera.

This week our focus is on the diverse and artistically driven pueblo of Bucerias, Nayarit.

A Fun Pueblo Named Bucerias
It is easy to get into the spirit of Bucerias. Great food, a beautiful 8km stretch of clean fine white sand beach, and an authentic Mexican vibe with warmhearted people define the culture in this little paradise. Bucerias is a only 25 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport, and 15 minutes from Sayulita, making it a popular vacation destination particularily for Canadians and Americans.

Noteveryone is into the clamor of a big city, and Bucerias is perfect for those who prefer a slower paced holiday. Like many coastal communities, originally a fishing town Bucerias translates to “divers” in Spanish; harkening back to the town’s beginning when oyster diving was a significant source of income. Today it remains well known for its oysters and fresh caught seafood with many of the local restaurants and street merchants offering catch of the day dishes. Fishing is still a driving force of the regional economy and there are several professional guides in town. Huge sailfish are routinely caught in Banderas Bay.

Bucerias charms with cobblestone roads and many street vendors, however, this town of over 20,000 mixes totally contemporary comforts with traditional customs and the slower, more leisurely Mexican attitude. There are many great options for food, shopping, and relaxing. During the day, drop down to the beach to grab a $20 massage from one of the many talented masseuses that set up under breezy tents and in the evening, head into town for a hockey game, some live music and you can even catch a great Drag Queen show on Tuesday nights. (seasonal)

With lodging options from the smallest hotel rooms to the most grand palatial beachfront homes, Bucerias offers an escape for just about everyone. What really makes it distinctive is the thriving artist community. There are many well-known artists, excellent galleries and studios, multiple art focused events, classes a weekly artwalkand much more.
While many shops and restaurants start closing along the Riviera Nayarit for the summer months, Bucerias manages to keep many of its fine restaurants, stores and galleries open all year long. Check out the market off the plaza for typical souvenirs and some hidden gems. Cross the Kissing Bridge and stroll along Lazaro Cardenas, stopping to visit the galleries, grab a bite at one of the many wonderful cafes and ogle the spectacular beachfront homes.

Discover the art, the people and the wonderful seafood of Bucerias. Its easy to make friends in Bucerias!

Cat Morgan is owner of Riviera Nayarit Fun Regional Network and 7 town websites promoting vacation and relocation along the Riviera Nayarit. To find more information about the Riviera Nayarit and Bucerias visit www.RivieraNayaritFun.com and allBucerias.com for current events, and news and entertainment.

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Tags bucerias,SUP

Celebrating Pride in Vallarta

by Mexi-Go!/April 19, 2013

Long recognized internationally as one of the best gay friendly destinations, there is now more reason for travelers and locals to get out and share their pride in beautiful sunny Puerto Vallarta. The LGBT pride festival “Vallarta Pride 2013″ will be held during the weekend from the 24^thto the 26^th of May in the Romantic Zone.

What started as a simple gay pride celebration parade has become a 3-day event including music festivals, beach party, fashion show and plenty of activities in the many bars and clubs involved. Organizers are finalizing details that may see a gay and lesbian film festival and art exhibit added to the agenda.

With many events already planned throughout the weekend including theme nights, the Opening reception will be hosted Friday evening May 24^th at 9:00pm at the always lovely Taste Restaurant at Casa Cupula and the events will finish with the Pride Parade taking place on Sunday, May 26^th at 4:00pm and finish at the Lazaro Cardenas Park with what is sure to be a very colourful festival. Now is the time to let your friends know to book their holidays in Puerto Vallarta.

For more informationvisit: http://gaypv.mx/ or the official Puerto Vallarta website http://visitapuertovallarta.com.mx/ or on Facebook http://on.fb.me/XBYXbz

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Tags gay,vallarta

10 Behaviors of Successful Retirees

by Aaron Fisher/April 18, 2013

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore.Dream.Discover. – Mark Twain

The choice is yours. Do you want to explore, dream and discover your way through retirement? It’s time to get the most out of your retirement by practicing the 10 Behaviors of Successful Retirees.

1. Set the Pace for the Day
We all know that when we get up early, eat a good breakfast and have a plan, our momentum for the day is established. We get more accomplished within a 24-hour period and have a deeper sense of purpose. Start your day off right and fill it up with the things you enjoy – gardening, shopping, painting, reading, traveling, working out and anything else that puts a “hop” in your step.

2. The Best Perspective
Are you retiring to escape something in your life – a job, a boss, a community or the daily grind? If so, maybe it’s time for a fresh perspective. Retirement is a new stage of life, giving you something to retire “to”. Take advantage of the opportunity to fill in the blank by inserting your passion: I am retiring in order “to” _____________________.

3. Money Matters for Successful Retirement
Successful retirees have spent years planning for their retirement, making sure they can meet their financial needs with diversified portfolios. Happy retirees are either debt-free or work to keep their expenses down, maintaining low overhead and having enough to live comfortably.

4. Carpe Diem
Successful retirees understand that life is not infinite. Therefore, they “seize the day” and live with a sense of urgency, ready to embrace new adventures.

5. It’s Mañana Time
Mexico is known for its “mañana time”, meaning “I will handle it tomorrow”. While it fits the laid-back culture, it is the perfect excuse for procrastination and inactivity. Of course, you are entitled to enjoy the relaxation of retirement, but don’t let the day go by without tacking a few priorities. Give yourself some goals for the day and have a spouse, partner or friend hold you accountable. You’ll appreciate the level of energy you have and the sense of accomplishment by checking things off of your “to do” list.

6. Embrace Risk
Sure, being careful about finances, family matters, belongings and the future is important. However, successful retirees understand that life is about living. They are not afraid to dare to dream and take action to achieve their goals.

7. To Your Health
With a little more spare time as a retiree, maybe it’s time to focus on your health. Are you active? Do you get the proper nutrition each day? Do you follow your doctor’s advice regarding heart healthy activities? Be sure to make smart lifestyle choices by eating a healthy diet, getting daily exercise and cutting back on smoking, drinking and stress-related activities.

8. Go for the Yes
Just because you’re retired doesn’t mean your adventures are over. In fact, many retirees are ready to tackle those things they’ve always wanted to do and see. Seek out opportunities to say “yes” and be open to a change in scenery, both mentally and physically. You’ll be amazed at the amount of personal growth and development you’ll gain.

9. Reach Out to Others
Human beings are social creatures. Retirement is the perfect time to reconnect with others as well as to develop new relationships. Enjoy a BBQ, play cards, take a cruise, enjoy a night on the town or travel to faraway destinations with your friends. The world is your playground!

10. Look for Meaningful Activities
If you are looking for ways to fill your days, try something that is both productive and meaningful. Become a volunteer, head up a community group, get involved in local politics or participate in your local church. There are hundreds of things you can do which will increase the success of your retirement and continue to add meaning to your next stage of life.

Enjoy the time exploring, dreaming and discovering as a successful retiree!

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Tags mexico,retiree