Issue 928, Jan 15 - 21, 2015

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

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Entertainment WHAT’S GOING ON!

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Jan 15 - 21, 2015 Free Issue 928

Real Estate

buying beach front

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Travel to las animas

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By Gala Milne

welcome

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Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

and Riviera Nayarit Here is some advice to make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable.

TIME ZONE: The entire state of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit starting from Guayabitos in the north.

BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between.

Current fare is $7.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”.

TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Price is per trip not person.

MONEY EXCHANGE: Although you may have to wait in line for a few minutes, banks will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio). You will need your passport. Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM machine. Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees.

DRINKING WATER: For the year 18 in a row, Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for human consumption.

The quality of the water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up bottled water just about anywhere.

EXPORTING PETS: Falling love with the street dog outside your hotel or a puppy on the Malecon doesn’t mean they can’t come home with you.

The process is fairly inexpensive and only takes a day or two. You need a certificate of health from a local vet among other things. The time of year that pets can travel in the cargo section of the plane may be your biggest challenge. For the most up-to-date information contact the Puerto Vallarta SPCA at spcapv@gmail.com.

COMMON SENSE: Just as you wouldn’t walk around your hometown drunk and beligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexicans are a forgiving bunch, basic politeness is appreciated.

For the guys, peeing in public is a major faux pas and if you are caught, can get you tossed in jail or an expensive fine. Pay attention to your surroundings. Pay your bills. Be courteous. And have fun!

DRINKING AND DRIVING: First off – just don’t. The consequences are not worth it. Taxis are cheap and plentiful. Fines are as much as 10,000 pesos. You can be taken to jail and your vehicle impounded. There are many checkstops on the weekends and you will be asked to blow if they suspect you have been drinking.

LEGAL SYSTEM: Not knowing the law is not an valid excuse in Mexico or anywhere. If you find yourself caught in a legal situation be aware that guilt is presumed until your innocence can be proven.

This is a very difficult lesson to learn if you are visiting from the United States or Canada in particular. Immediately contact your consulate for assistance.

Director Noemi Zamora noemizamorareynoso@gmail.com Editor Lic. Madeline Milne mmilne@Vallartatribune.com Sales Team Rebeca Castellón Rebeca.castellonn@gmail.com Information office ventastribuna7@yahoo.com Designer Cynthia E. Andrade G. cysandra@gmail.com cisandra@vallartatribune.com

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Calling in Mexico Calling phones in Mexico can be tricky as it is different than in the US or Canada. There are different codes you need to use depending if you are calling landlines or cellular phones and if they are local or long distance.

Long-distance calls from within Mexico For national long-distance calls (within Mexico) the code is 01 plus the area code and phone number. For international long-distance calls, first dial 00, then the country code (for the U.S. and Canada the country code is 1, so you would dial 00 + 1 + area code + 7 digit number).

Calling Cell Phones (from a land line) If you are calling from a landline within the area code of the Mexican cell phone number dial 044, then the 10 digit number including area code. Outside of the area code (but still within Mexico) dial 045 and then the 10 digit phone number. Cell phone to cell phone only requires the 10 digit number.

Phone Cards Phone cards (“tarjetas telefonicas”) for use in pay phones can be bought at newstands and in pharmacies in denominations of 30, 50 and 100 pesos. Pay phones do not accept coins. When buying a phone card for pay phone use, specify that you would like a “tarjeta LADA,” because pre-paid cell phone cards are also sold in the same establishments.

Calling Toll-Free Numbers Some toll free numbers work from Mexico to the US and Canada, but many do not.

You need to dial a different prefix. To call the following toll free prefixes, dial as follows: 800 numbers Dial 001-880-then the number 866 numbers Dial 001-883-then the number 877 numbers Dial 001-882-then the number 888 numbers Dial 001-881-then the number

Spanish Bloopers

Sandra Cesca sandra.learn.vallarta@gmail.com

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his new biweekly column is for all of us who are still struggling with the Spanish language…and for those who just want to enjoy a good laugh!

Although I have lived here seven years, I still make many mistakes with words that sound the same but are entirely different or with the same word that has double or triple meanings, some resulting in various degrees of embarrassment.

Time for some food: CHICHAROS (PEAS) CHICHARRONES (FRIED PIGSKIN) Shopping here can be quite an adventure, especially if you are not familiar with some of the local offerings. Although peas and pigskin are not often found in the same place, it does help to know the difference! Especially if you are not a fan of those bags of crispy fried golden chunks found in most neighborhood tiendas and butcher shops.

Asking for one when you mean the other will get you some smiles and perhaps a raised eyebrow or

two. For me, I will take fresh peas anytime. Send me your bloopers and a little story to go with them. I

will even credit you if you wish. Let’s share the fun, have some laughs, and perhaps learn a bit more...

Vallarta Tribune is an activity and entertainment guide and merely publishes information as it is provided by the advertiser or event host. We do not assume responsibility in errors or omissions other than to correct them as soon as they are made known to us regarding event schedules, locations and/or prices. In addition, we do not assume any responsibility for erroneous inclusion or exclusion of information except to take reasonable care to ensure accuracy, that permission has been obtained to use it, and to remove it as soon as is practical upon receiving your notification of error. We recommend you always confirm prior to attending or visiting an event or establishment. 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 Del. El Pitillal, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco México CP 48290 Tel. 226-0800 editor@vallartatribune.com * www.vallartatribune.com * www.facebook.com/vallarta.tribune

editorial

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Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

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don’t have much to say this week, which doesn’t happen often so I feel like we should savour it.

I was at Sapphire Ocean Club last night for the Equus press release.

A couple things stood out for me. One, it’s a seriously intense play being directed by the fastidious Alain Perreault. It’s is bound to be an emotional experience, one that isn’t seen too often (ever?) here in our little party town.

Now, we all love comedy and cabaret and 7 foot tall drag queens but the feeling is that this play will be remembered for raising the bar of serious theater in Puerto Vallarta.

We also now have another exceptional beach club in Amapas (in front of Hotel Tropicana) to impress our visiting guests with.

The food served last night was near perfection.

The short ribs fell apart in anticipation; the shrimps were plump and tangy with the perfect amount of resistance. I could have eaten 30. Sapphire Beach Club is the latest project by Michel Ferrari of Trattoria Michel’s fame. It’s a modern, chic beach club with an excellent bar and food menu featuring authentic Mediterranean specialties, and lovely pool with towel service and comfy loungers.

Annual membership is $14,000 pesos which is cheaper than a beachfront condo. Memberships are also available for the day, week, and month. www.sapphire.mx Puerto Vallarta is doing an excellent job in growing its fan base. Recently recognized as a top gay destination, hosting some of the theater world’s best talent, a revival of resorts, the rehabilitation of some of those derelict buildings south of Conchas Chinas, it all points to an awakening and

awareness by those who can make change, that change is desired. I think it bodes well for all of us – visitors and residents alike; a much richer and diverse experience.

On the other end of the bay we were graced by Jessica Alba and her family which in itself isn’t much to write about but does speak to the availability of top quality, casually sophisticated experiences that abound and attract people who could choose any destination in the world. Just like we did.

Equus will be running at Act II Entertainment Stages from February 4th to 21st.

Have a great week.

Madeline

This weekend’s MUST Festival Sayulita

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estival Sayulita is back, bringing its trademark Film, Music, Spirits & Surf from January 14-18. Now in its second year, it’s upped its activities roster and added something for everyone.

A perfect mix of art, sports, gastronomy, sun and sand make for an all-inclusive Sayulita weekend.

"This was a decision made amongst a small group of individuals in order to promote our town," explained Gabriel Villarubia, one of the founders. "Each of us had separately wanted to do a tequila festival, a film festival and a music festival, so we basically decided to do it all together. It was a small gathering last

year and it was very cool; this year it's going to be even better. " One of the standout novelties this time around is the special Friday list of activities just for kids and teens.

They’ll be able to enjoy a kid’s rock band, as well as view the movie “Box Trolls” and enjoy a chat with one of the producers who will be on hand to explain the art of stop motion.

There will also be a friendly surf tournament where they can share the waves with the pros. Another new activity is the 5-10K Fun Run, which will take place Thursday morning, the first day of the festival. The Long board Surf Tournament is the largest in Latin America and will include the

participation of local notables such as Fernando Stalla and Javier “Bicho” Jiménez, as well as the Riviera Nayarit crew and international stars such as Alex Knost, among others.

The tournament will be held on Saturday with a prize of $10,000 USD. Event goers will have access to tequila, beer, mescal and Mexican wine in order to support domestic producers.

Of course, the regional gastronomy is a must, holding court on Thursday night with a Wine Pairing and on Sunday with a Master Tasting during the surf awards ceremony.

There will be film presentations in different spots, with a place of honor held by the big screen right on the beach. The Dirty Heads will headline Saturday’s big concert (pun intended). There’s a lot going on, so visit the official event page and take a peek at the entire schedule: festivalsayulita.com/.

entertainment

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The Palm Gets ‘Well-Strung’

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opular U.S. boy band WellStrung will make their second appearance at The Palm Cabaret and Bar, combining classical and pop music through strings and vocals. January 19th - February 6th.

This hunky all-male string quartet features classically trained musicians who sing and play stringed instruments, putting their unique spin on the music of Mozart, Vivaldi, Rihanna, Adele, Lady Gaga, and more! Their debut performance in 2012 sold-out in New York, and since then they have played venues all over the world including; The Art House in Provincetown, Leicester Square Theatre in London, 54 Below in New York, House of Blues in New Orleans, Feinstein’s in San Francisco, and The Palm in Puerto Vallarta.

Well-Strung stars first violinist

Edmund Bagnell, second violinist Christopher Marchant, cellist Daniel Shevlin and violist Trevor Wadleigh.

Their very entertaining high energy show has thrilled audiences, taking traditional boy bands to an entirely new level, and their popularity continues to soar. The show is directed and co-written by Donna Drake with arrangements by David Levinson. The quartet was formed by producer and co-writer/manager Mark Cortale, and band member Christopher Marchant. Additional

arrangements are by Daniel Shevlin, Yair Evnine and Christopher Marchant.

Well-Strung discovered last season that cellos don’t travel easily or cheaply on airplanes. The Palm’s entertainment director, Tracy Parks, has again arranged to borrow a cello from the Puerto Vallarta Youth Orchestra and School with the assistance of School Director, Daniel Olvera, for their performances. In exchange the band will present a free workshop for the students on January 21st.

The Palm also donated a clarinet to the school this year, helping to once again bring together students and professional musicians in a unique educational experience for everyone involved. Well-strung will perform in the evenings at The Palm beginning January 19th through February 6th.

Argentinian duo ‘Bohemia Viva’

sizzles at The Palm Luis Lujan and Andrea Mottura of Bohemia Viva spice up the stage at The Palm Cabaret and Bar for a second season, appearing January 18th - February 3rd, 2015.

This Argentinian duo is on fire with wonderful energy, incredible voices, and an eclectic style that takes you on a special musical journey that you’ll not soon forget. Beautiful acoustic Latin rhythms and timeless classics, offered in both Spanish and English, are combined with rich, sensual harmonies in a unique art-filled style.

Bohemia Viva was a huge hit last season in Vallarta, and since then they have been appearing in Italy at Villa Farsetti, performing with musicians from Venezuela, Argentina and Italy, in a little city called Santa Maria di Sala, very near Venice. In collaboration with Allan G. Shephard, who has been music great Phil Collins’ Sound Engineer, their shows helped to enhance the enchanting magic of the historical Italian

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The Main Stage Theater Presents…

GOLDEN GIRLS Opening JANUARY 22 Dates: January 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 and 31 at 8 pm; January 25 at 3 pm Starring four of San Francisco’s top drag luminaries: Heklina (Dorothy), Cookie Dough (Sophia), Matthew Martin (Blanche) and Turleen (Rose).

The mise-en-scène is reasonably straightforward: Take four talented drag performers, cast them in two classic episodes of the ground-breaking TV show THE GOLDEN GIRLS, and hilarity will ensue. The Golden Girls started performances in San Francisco in 2006; they've toured from New Orleans to the Russian River and now look forward to their Puerto Vallarta debut!

THE MUSICAL COMEDY MURDERS CLOSING WEEKEND

DATES: January 14, 15, 16, 17 at 8 pm Secret passageways, Nazi saboteurs and dead bodies combine to create a blizzard of mayhem in this side-splitting comedy.

Poking antic fun at the more ridiculous aspects of "show biz" and the corny thrillers of Hollywood's heyday, the play is a non-stop barrage of laughter as those assembled (or at least those who aren't killed off) untangle the mystery of the Stage Door Slasher.

New York Magazine hails Murders as "the intelligent person's kind of nonsense."

To tell you any more would spoil the fun. This is Danny Mininni’s second time in the director's chair for Musical Comedy Murders.

In 1990, his California production was honored by winning the L.A. TIMES Best Pick of the Week. MCM of 1940 stars many of Vallarta´s favourites: Act II founding member Elizabeth Ensor, Mary Amelotte, Anthony St. Martin, Roger Uscila, Stephanie Wright Watts, Adam Bishop, Salvador Ruiz, Cherry De Lorenzo, Heidi Pitts and Hal Bonta.

THE VOICE OF VALLARTA SEASON 2

Villa through music and art.

The events have brought together more than 500 people from different nationalities that were invited on a special musical journey through songs from the USA, Europe, and Latin America. *Please note: Their Jan. 15th matinee performance has been cancelled. If you already hold tickets for that show, please contact The Palm.

Also at The Palm...

lso currently playing at The Palm is local singer and entertainer Mikki Prost in her song and dance review of the blues in ‘Shades of The Blues’ on select Fridays at 4:00 p.m. through March 27th. Local popular showman Sol Rose in his show ‘Solesque’ salutes Las Vegas and Hollywood Musicals on select dates through March 7th (see calendar link below). Vallarta favorites Amy & Freddy are also now appearing through January 29th, along with ‘An Evening at The Birdcage’ starring Joe Posa and Thirsty Burlington, with their spot-on

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

impersonations of Cher (with all live vocals), Liza, Joan Rivers, Barbra Streisand, and more!

‘An Evening at The Birdcage’ is now playing through January 29th.

And the comedy stage production of ‘Greater Tuna’, starring Tracy Parks and Chaz Weathers, has been a huge hit! They portray 20 men, women, children and animals (with 42 costume changes) from the third-smallest town in Texas, where the Lions Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. ‘Greater Tuna’ is a big comedy about a small town, small minds and big hearts.

It is now playing through January 20th.

The Palm is non-smoking (a patio is provided for smokers) and is located at Olas Altas #508, in the heart of Zona Romantica.

Tickets may be purchased online 24 hours a day, and at The Palm’s Box Office, open at 11:00 a.m. daily.

A full calendar of performances, information and online tickets are available at www.ThePalmPV.com.

Our Box Office opens at 11:00 a.m. daily. You can also find the Palm on Facebook at The Palm Cabaret and Bar.

DATES: Every Sunday at 8:00 pm Week SIX for the long-awaited BROADWAY WEEK with GUEST JUDGE DAME EDNA. VOICE is hosted by Juan Pablo Hernandez who turns SPANGLISH into an art form! Judges this season are: PVMC Choral Director, Alfonso Lopez, Kharla Barragan, Edgar Sanchez and our celebrity guest judge. A Voice of Vallarta Pass is now available at www.vallartatickets.com. This pass will get you into all performances and include one cocktail per show, seats in the first three rows and admission to the grand finale on March 29th.

BOTH SIDES NOW: A tribute to Joni Mitchell

DATES: Mondays and Tuesdays January 5th to 27th at 8 pm Opened January 12 to rave reviews BOTH SIDES NOW is a theatrical presentation of the music of Joni Mitchell, performed live with the Don and Rhonda band and starring Canadian singer Jenny Allen.

The show presents two sides of Joni's music-acoustic folk and progressive rock/jazz. Some of the songs featured are: Both Sides Now, Circle game, Chelsea Morning and the Joni Mitchell collaborations with Charles Mingus. Also included is a song called Night of the Iguana written by Joni about Puerto Vallarta.The band members are musical director of Act II Entertainment Rhonda Padmos on piano and vocals, Don Pope acoustic and electric guitar and dulcimer.

Jesus Estrada on drums, Marcos Milagres from Rio de Janiero, Brazil, on bass, and well-known guitar master, Willow, from the duo Beverly and Willow.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.actiientertainment.com or at the box office open daily at noon.

The Main Stage Theater is located in the Act II Entertainment STAGES Complex at Insurgentes 300 (corner of Basilio Badillo & Insurgentes) 2nd Floor, Zona Romántica, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco Tel 322.222.1512

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Sharron Matthews’ ‘SOLID GOLD HITS’ is now at The Red Room

By Deborah White

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uirky people are, indeed, fascinating.

Just add incredible talent, energy and humor to that formula and what you have is Puerto Vallarta’s newest arrival, Sharron Matthews.

With a fabulous singing voice, a slightly irreverent sense of humor and a theatrical, flamboyant wit, Sharron Matthews is a wonderful new addition to Puerto Vallarta’s entertainment scene this season.

Jokingly described as ‘the love child of Jack Black and Bette Midler,’ Sharron brings her two different ‘Solid Gold Hits’ shows to The Red Room, Act II Stages from January 5th to the 30th. Her cabaret shows include songs by artists such as Lady Gaga, Guns ‘N Roses, Radiohead, Beyoncé, Queen and more. In between songs she channels thoughts, experiences and wisdom that is reminiscent of a Robin Williams style of humor.

Sharron has been playing to sold-out audiences across Canada, the United States, London and South Africa. Reviewed as ‘One of the Best Stage Performers’ in Canada, she has also been featured in block buster movies like The Music Man, Hairspray, Mean Girls, and Cinderella Man. As a stage actress, she has had theatrical roles in Les Miserable, Showboat, Beauty and the Beast, Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and the Wizard of Oz. For the past two years she has been one of the stars of the television program, ‘Canada Sings.’

She shines as a vocal coach one minute and as therapist to aspiring artists the next!

Now Magazine Canada describes Sharron Matthews in this way. “She can rivet you with her great pipes and then touch you with the tenderness of her interpretations Then make you laugh till you pee.”

The Toronto Star enthusiastically declares that “Sharon delivers jaw-dropping vocals, pop-culture punches and hi-melody mash-ups in a one-of-a-kind concert experience that defies age and gender barriers.”

NiteLife Exchange, New York City has declared that ‘SHARRON MATTHEWS IS THE MOST EXCITING THING TO HAVE HAPPENED TO CABARET SINCE BETTE MIDLER!’ The awards and honors for Sharron Matthews’ performances are many, but what is most important is the fact that she consistently delivers a highly entertaining, soul-searching, original performance each time she takes the stage. As Cabaret-Artist-In-Residence at Buddies in Bad Times Theater in Toronto and Associate Artist in Acting Up Stage in Toronto, we thank the city of Toronto for sharing this very funny and talented woman with Puerto Vallarta for the month of January. This is a show you won’t want to miss!

Tickets can be purchased at vallartatickets.com or at Act II Stages box office at Insurgentes 330 in Zona Romantica, PV. Originally published on VallartaDaily.com. Reprinted with author’s permission.

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Live from the

Red Room

by Marcia Blondin

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anadians are making up a great deal of the talent currently performing in the Red Room. Sharron Matthews, who stars in two different shows, hails from Toronto. I have seen “Side Two” …you will never listen to “Hotel California” the same way again; an interesting curve, hilarious one minute and downright spooky the next! Full report on “Side One” after I see it this week.

Award-winning Canuck, Rob Knight, does an outstanding Tribute to Elvis Presley with as much energy and sweetness as the King did at his peak. Rob would love to resurrect his Gospel Matinees so let the powers that be at

the Red Room know that you will come and spend some time, bring your friends and enjoy the luxury of the Red Room while you trip down memory lane together.

Kim Kuzma, from B.C., continues to pack the house every Sunday with her incredible “Acustico” show and gets DOWN with Wednesday Night Fever…and so should you. Speaking of more Canadians…Geo Ulrich heads up “Luna Rumba” opening at 5 pm on Saturday. World Music brought up close and personal. Good luck keeping to your seats in this show!

Miss Conception from Mississauga, Ontario, has won so many awards and has so many fans in

Vallarta that his opening show at 9:30pm, January 15th, is almost sold out! I hope I can sneak into a corner and bring you a full report next week.

Practising your Spanish these days? Drop in Saturdays at 8pm until the end of January and listen to “RAZGA VENAS” starring Juan Pablo Hernandez (emcee of VOICE of Vallarta), Edgar Sanchez (judge on VOICE), and Dorys Juaregui (finalist on VOICE, season one), backed up by musicians Zimri and Samuel Renteria. Feel free to sing along…And lastly, (to practise your Australian), Michael Walters starring as Dame Edna continues to spread gladiola petals wherever she goes.

She is joining The Red Room, Nancy Page, Gary Beck and I in a new, exciting event.

Our premiere precedes publication this week but if it turns out half as good as I expect it will, stay tuned to find out how you can participate in the next one!

IMMERSE YOURSELF INTO THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF

MISS CONCEPTION MISS CONCEPTION

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS AT 9:30 PM

This Year Miss Conception will be launching her New show Called ” The Wonderful World Of Miss Conception” an all live singing show of your favorite story book characters with a twist. Miss Conception started from Cawthra Park high school for the performing arts to Mississauga Youth Theatre and now this international female Delusionist is ready to take the world by storm or take their heels.

LUNA RUMBA

JANUARY 17TH AT 5:00 PM

Luna Rumba thrills audiences with their sonic tapestry of Latin Fusion, Gypsy Flamenco, Arabic Melodies, Cuban Rhythms, Celtic Riffs and even Latin Jazz. Their shows are a celebration of musical fusion, human diversity, creativity, warmth and virtuosity. Fiery violins, rumba-flamenco guitar, hot keyboard riffs and cool bass ride on top of the unstoppable polyrhythmic grooves created by the exotic percussion instruments and drums. If this weren’t enough, be prepared to hear vocals that will melt your heart and warm your soul.

EVERY WEEK! VALLARTA’S FAVOURTE - KIM KUZMA

ACOUSTICO - SUN AT 7:30 PM WEDNESDAY NIGHT FEVER - WED AT 9:30 PM Kim Kuzma and her live acoustic band is a Sunday evening tradition in Vallarta.

Join Kim for Wednesday Night Fever for a high energy disco show.

DAME EDNA FINDS HER VOICE UNTIL FEB 14: TUES & SAT AT 9:30 PM WED & FRI AT 7:30 PM Renowned vocalist and actor Michael L. Walters takes the stage by storm in a critically acclaimed full-scale homage to Dame Edna’s fabulous Broadway shows!

SHARRON MATTHEWS

JAN 16 AT 9:30 PM JAN 20, 22 AT 7:30 PM “She proved once again that she may be the most exciting thing to have happened in cabaret since Bette Midler at the Continental Baths.” — NiteLifeExchange/NYC

ROB KNIGHT AS ELVIS

WEDNESDAYS AT 4:00 PM Rob Knight is a Pacific Northwest Award Winning International Elvis Tribute Artist.

Rob’s performance provides an opportunity to travel back in time to enjoy the music from Elvis’ career.

The Red Room Cabaret @ ACT II Stages Insurgentes #300 Basilio Badillo and Insurgentes LVIS OREVER E F S IS M Act II Stages (322) 222-1512 M DON’T AYS AT 4P www.facebook.com/Theredroomcabaret WEDNESD

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Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico among the Top 3 countries for Retirement

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ight on the heels of another year, International Living releases their top picks for international retirement destinations, so if you’ve been on that fence for a while now, here’s a friendly reminder that you too can join the ranks of millions of ex-pats and call Mexico, or one of the many destinations world-wide that offer exceptional living abroad opportunities, home.

With spiraling costs compelling more and more North Americans to retire overseas, retiring abroad has never been more attractive. But finding the right location among the myriad options available can be daunting.

That’s what our Annual Global Retirement Index does. Using input from our team of correspondents

on the ground all over the world, we combine real-world insights about climate, health care, cost of living, and much more to draw up a comprehensive list of the best bang-for-your buck retirement destinations on the planet.

Are you an urbanite or do you prefer the wide-open spaces?

Would you prefer a tropical climate with year-round sun or more temperate weather that reminds you of home? Would you rather live by the sea or on a mountainside?

Sample the exotic delights of Asia or explore the rich cultural heritage of Latin America? Only you can make these calls.

In assembling this index, we aim to deliver an in-depth guide to the best countries available to you today. It’s been compiled using the

solid judgment and on-the-ground intelligence of our correspondents around the world. All of them are expats who have become experts on their adopted countries.

Through their insight, we hope to give you an indication of the relative strengths and weaknesses of each locale and a flavor of the life that could await you in each.

That way you can focus your own search in a well-informed way.

You can see the full table of results below, but here for your inspection are details of Mexico…

Mexico—Thriving Expat Communities South of the Rio Grande One of the world’s best expat havens lies just south of the

border, proving that you don’t have to traverse the globe to find your own piece of paradise.

Due to its proximity to the U.S., the comforts of home are never far away in Mexico. English is widely spoken in expat havens (though Spanish will help tremendously) and U.S. food, products, and sports are also popular.

“In Mexico I can get almost anything I could get back home, between the U.S. chain stores and the local shops and markets plus I can get all the wonderful local specialties,” says ILEditor Glynna Prentice.

“The big difference is the prices.

Tickets to a top-notch concert may cost me $8 or even less…and I can walk to the concert hall through a beautiful colonial city. I can buy a

Vallarta recognized as top Gay destination

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he votes are in for the Best of GayCities 2014, and oh what a great gay world it is.

GayCities members tapped Toronto for the coveted title of “City of the Year.”Savannah won for “Hidden Gem,” while Puerto Vallarta triumphed over San Diego, Montego Bay, Miami, Cancun, Key West for Fun in the Sun. San Francisco was the biggest winner, beating Vallarta for the crown in “Best Gayborhood,” while managing top honors in both “Marriage Mecca” and “Singles Scene.” One thing leads to the other, as they say.

Here’s some of the list of categories, winners and nominees…

City of the Year: Toronto bested Berlin, London, Rio, Philadelphia, Bangkok Sultriest City: Barcelona beat out Bali, Miami, Las Vegas, Bangkok, Mexico City Foodie Paradise: Paris narrowly beat out New Orleans, followed closely by Chicago, Austin, Lima, San Francisco Culture Experience: Artifacts in Athens won over Street Art in Melbourne, Ballet in New York, Opera in Vienna, Theatre in Chicago, Jazz in New Orleans Hidden Gem: Savannah over Omaha, Albuquerque, San Antonio, Columbus Honeymoon Hotspots: Hawaii over Costa Rica, Bali, Puerto Rico, Phuket, Provincetown Original: www.queerty.com/

week’s worth of groceries for $15 or $20, and I don’t know anyone who pays more than a few hundred dollars a year in property taxes.”

Established expat havens in communities such as Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende ease the integration process, while excellent property can still be found for far less than you’d pay in the States.

In communities where expats flock, health care is as good as what you’d expect at home, but delivered at a much lower cost, leaving you with plenty of money in your wallet to enjoy the innumerable activities and cultural treasures this large and diverse country has to offer.

From the pristine beaches of Oaxaca and the scenic streets of San Miguel de Allende and Ajijic to the lush jungles and secluded bays of Riviera Nayarit, the vibrant towns of Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen, Mexico has it all.

This country can cater to a wide range of tastes—whether you’re in search of a quiet getaway or on the hunt for adventure.

The country’s large size also affords it a diverse range of climates to accommodate every tolerance of heat, humidity, and rainfall.

Good Internet and infrastructure can be found throughout most of the country, and Mexico’s famed cuisine is another much-loved plus.

Regular flights to and from the U.S. and Canada are also a distinct advantage…or you could drive back if so inclined.

For complete rankings and methodology visit http://internationalliving.com/

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Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

11 Regulations that came into effect Mexican Business in Mexico with the new year Community

W

ith the New Year comes new resolutions and regulations. Here are 11 regulations that came into effect in Mexico on January 1st, subject to change at any time. Resolutions, well that’s another story.

1. LONG DISTANCE.

From 1 January 2015 calls to mobiles and landlines anywhere in the Mexican territory will be charged as local calls.

The marking of the number does not change, the change is, that service providers will not charge long distance fees; take into account that this measured only applies to calls to national numbers and rates for overseas communications and quotas for national services 01 900 numbers remain.

2. THE ANALOG BLACKOUT.

Analog television has been discontinued in Mexico, calling it “The Analog Blackout”.

The Secretariat of Communications and Transportation has already reached the Federal District (Mexico DF) Guerrero, Mexico State, Tlaxcala, Hidalgo, Puebla and Morelos.

The remaining Estates of Mexico are also included in this measure and special boxes are being given to people in order to be able to process the TV signal and watch the opened channel.

3. FINES FOR POWER CUTS.

CFE and private companies will be fined if they are responsible for massive blackouts.

4. PAYMENTS FOR SERVICES ON MONTHS WITHOUT INTEREST. Between January 1 and March 31 the capital taxpayers may pay with points or months without interest various services such as property taxes, possession or water.

5. FINES FOR NOT HAVING CAR INSURANCE. As of January 1 fines will be applied to those who travel federal highways without, at least, liability insurance.

6. MINIMUM WAGE.

As of January the minimum wage in zone A increases to

$70.10 pesos per day to and Zone B $ 66.45 pesos per day.

7. INVESTMENT FUNDS.

Investment funds in Mexico no longer will run under the legal concept of “Investment Companies” but will become part of corporations, therefore shall comply with the regulations governing these types of businesses. Investment funds will have to be governed under conditions such as: comprehensive reform of statutes, independent board of directors and authorized by the National Banking and Securities Commission Compliance Officer.

8. AFORES.

From the first of January new and lower commissions will be charged to workers in all cases. The average fees for 2015 decreased from 1.20 to 1.11 percent; in the days of the month, will be published a document called “The Single Operational Circular” (CUO) which amends certain operating rules related to money transfers.

9. BANKS.

Mexican banks must comply with rules regarding liquidity levels, as of 1 January 2015 in accordance of the “Calculated Liquidity Coverage. In other words, banks must settle additional reserves

as part of their claims; According to some experts, there are some expectations that at least 10 of the 45 banks currently active in Mexico will have some trouble meeting the rule, but eventually they will.

10. DEBT COLLECTION COMPANIES. From the first day of January calls dispatches that do debt collection can only call (and basically harass people) between 7AM to 10 PM on business days only; They will not be able to collect personal reference, except in the case of a liable third party including solidarity endorsement of debt.

Debt collection companies hired by banks must be registered with the REDECO (Registro de Despachos de Cobranza).

11. MEXICO DF UNIT OF ACCOUNT. The new “Unit Of Account of the City of Mexico” will be replacing the minimum wage as an indicator of concepts and in 2015 will be of $69.95 pesos per day, from which the salaries of officials and the capital charges, fines are determined and services in the city will be based.

Original: yucatantimes.com

Sees Economy Growing 3.5%

M

exico’s business community expects the economy to grow 3.5 percent this year, a level that is below what the country needs but is better than the past two years, Business Coordinating Council, or CCE, president Gerardo Gutierrez Candiani said.

“The biggest factor in expecting this scenario is the solid recovery in the United States, the engine to get our economy moving,” Gutierrez Candiani said.

The gross domestic product should expand at a 3.5 percent clip with an inflation rate of 3.7 percent this year, compared to the 2.2 percent GDP growth and 4.1 percent inflation registered in 2014, the head of the CCE, which has members from 12 different industries, said.

U.S. manufacturing output moved past the pre-recession peak at the end of 2014, Gutierrez Candiani said in a statement posted on the CCE’s Web site.

“This is good news for our exporters, and another strong reason that bolsters the outlook is that the pressure the exchange

rate suffered in December is a temporary situation and should be reduced gradually,” the CCE chief said.

This year is unlikely to be marked by “a crisis scenario or structural conditions comparable to those at other times when there was a drop in oil prices, volatility in the exchange rate or political and social problems,” Gutierrez Candiani said.

Even though the federal government hedged oil sales for 2015 at an average price of $76.40 per barrel, “the problems will be more in 2016, so measures will have to be taken ahead of time with planning and efficiency in public spending, and the pending finance reforms,” the CCE chief said.

“The (oil) production base could continue falling until the new exploration and production projects are executed,” Gutierrez Candiani said.

“Mexico’s import costs, such as for gasoline, should fall, offsetting” the other pressures, the CCE president said.

www.LAHT.com

Canada promotes investment in the country

M

exico is a great opportunity for investment in the aerospace, automotive agriculture, oil and gas sectors, as well as in communication technology, said the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (DFATD).

The DFATD will hold five interactive seminars in January and February directed at small and medium Canadian businesses, along with representatives from financial institutions giving credit to exporters.

The seminars show Mexico as a “priority market,” a partner in the North American Free Trade Agreement that is part of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and a country with an agreement with

Canada to avoid double taxing.

“The Mexican government is implementing a long-term reform agenda to which Canada is welcoming and hoping that it will have a positive impact in attracting direct foreign investment,” said Diana Khaddaj, DFATD spokeswoman.

Khaddaj was referring to the ambitious National Infrastructure Program 2014-18, which includes 743 projects in key economic sectors such as energy housing, communications, transportation, health, tourism, infrastructure.

Canadian businesses are world leaders in those sectors, she said.

“This program anticipates investments of $750 billion and will create new opportunities for

our businesses, particularly for our small and medium businesses, “ said Khaddaj.

The foreign investment seminars will be held from Jan. 20 to Feb. 20 in Aurora and Waterloo, Ontario; Edmonton, Alberta; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; and Moncton, New Brunswick.

The seminars, with titles such as “Go Global Workshops,” will host representatives from exporter support institutions, like the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service, Export Development Canada (EDC), Business Development Bank of Canada and Canadian Commercial Corporation that operate like an open window for the small and medium businesses.

For example, EDC helps more than 7,000 Canadian businesses,

the majority of them small businesses, to do business in almost 200 countries around the world.

These seminars will promote investments in six Mexican industries: aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, mining, agriculture and information technology.

This is the first time the Canadian government is organizing seminars to encourage small businesses to invest outside the country.

“The Canadian government considers that supporting and associating themselves with small and medium businesses to take advantage of foreign opportunities is a key part of our pro-exportation, pro-employment plan,” said Khaddaj.

Original: THE NEWS

Vallarta-Nayarit: Shopping guide and events vallartashoppingdirectory.blogspot.com My life

Wellness

Latina

By Marcella Castellanos info@wellnesslatina.com Marcella Castellanos is a bilingual Certified Health Coach. She works with expats to help spice up their vitality with health and natural healing workshops and programs. For her blog or a list of her upcoming programs and workshops visit www.wellnesslatina.com.

Ch-ch-ch-chia!

M

any of us are familiar with the fuzzy green novelty item sold on TV and other commercial

outlets many years ago, but these tiny superfood seeds are more than just a funny-looking pet. These days, chia seeds have become better known as

a great source of fiber and healthy omega-3 fats, and fortunately, it's a super easy, gluten-free food to add to your diet.

They are tasteless which means no excuses! Chia seeds are native to Mexico and Guatemala, and go back to Aztec times when they were consumed in long distance running for energy and endurance.

The little seed packs a huge nutritional punch.

It contains phosphorus, calcium, manganese, and is a fantastic source of healthy omega-3 fats and protein.

Unlike flax seeds which have to be milled to access its health benefits, chia seeds can be eaten whole or milled before consumption.

Since they taste like nothing, you can add them to anything and everything.

They can be sprinkled whole on top of salads or soups or milled and put into smoothies. In Mexico, they are often found in an agua fresca ( fresh fruit water) called limón con chia. You can even sprout them for consumption!

These are the top 5 reasons you should add chia seeds to your diet:

1) Stave Off Belly Fat Chia seeds help to metabolize belly fat, as well as reduce levels of stress hormones that promote fat storage.

2)Fights Diabetes The gelatin that forms when chia seeds are Nacho Daddy Mexico is the place in Puerto Vallarta where American, Canadian and European ex-pats and tourists across the globe gather to drink, eat, dance, listen to great music,watch football and having a rip-roaring good time.

287 Basilio Badillo in old town 322 223 0838 www.nachodaddymexico.com

exposed to liquids can also prevent blood sugar spikes.

When ingested they form a type of barrier inside the stomach. This barrier helps to slow the ingestion of sugar into the blood stream which is especially helpful for diabetics who are unable to process sugars properly.

3)Protein Punch Chia seeds also make a great source of protein for vegetarians or non-vegetarians. Chia contains 18 of the 22 amino acids, including 9 essential amino acids. Two tablespoons, the standard serving, contains over 10 percent of the daily recommended value or 4.4 grams of protein and doesn't have any cholesterol.

4) Pack in the Omega-3's Contain 20% Omega-3's, making it a super food for the heart and brain. Chia contains 8 times more Omega than wild salmon!

5) Stock up on Fiber Just a 24-gram or 2 tablespoons of chia has 8.3 grams of dietary fibre — about a third of the recommended daily intake for adults. Chia is important for digestion and healing digestive issues.

Here are some other important facts about chia in a 2 tbsp. serving: Five times the omega-3 content of a 1/4-cup serving of walnuts Twice the iron and magnesium of a cup of spinach More than twice the fiber of a cup of oatmeal As much calcium as a half-cup of milk As much potassium as a third of a banana

in Vallarta

By Lois Ellison

Off To A Good Start

I

’m a little behind the curve in wishing everyone a Happy New Year. It’s hard to believe that it is 2015 and I’m writing my first article of the new year. It seems like only yesterday we were all worrying about Y2K. Time flies.

My column is late because my new year started in northern California. At Christmas we hosted a reunion for our three kids, their spouses and our four granddaughters, all under the age of six. Our best Christmas gift was learning that two more granddaughters were there tucked in their mothers’ tummies waiting to appear later this year. This was the first time that all of us had been together since the grandchildren arrived.

California was chosen for this gala event because that’s where we’d lived as a family.

Now we are spread from Vallarta to Oregon, Kansas and Italy, with none of us in California.

Our rented farmhouse in the wine country was muy tranquilo and surrounded by incredible vistas. Being together with time to catch up on everything was beyond wonderful.

And watching those young ones getting acquainted was an amazing experience, but I must admit

I was pretty wiped out by the end of the five days.

Next we spent a few days including New Year’s Eve with my brother and his wife.

Somehow we all managed to stay up until 11:30 but, hey, it was already after midnight here in Vallarta.

There weren’t any fireworks but we knew that once back home we’d see them nightly from our terrace.

Did you ever see the Seinfeld episode about rental car reservations?

He goes to pick up the car he reserved and the agent tells him there are no cars.

I may not laugh the next time I see it. Way back in September we’d “reserved” a mid-sized car to hold us plus some of the family.

Arriving at the rental car center at SFO, we found the counters for every brand packed with travelers.

After forty five minutes, it was our turn. Imagine our surprise when the representative told us that they could only give us a compact car. We must have looked concerned because

The Heart

of Vallarta

By Barbara Peters she immediately added “well to be honest, that’s our last car”! Quickly signing the papers we fled to the garage, wondering how long it would be until the dozens of people still in line rioted.

So much for reservations!

Did I mention it was cold?

Maybe not as cold as some other places, but below freezing every night.

My winter wardrobe is severely limited and I’m pretty sure everyone got tired of seeing me in that pink sweater and navy fleece.

Ultimately, we decided to come home four days early.

With the family visits behind us, there weren’t many reasons to remain. We might have shopped but all the stores had winter clothes.

Not much need for boots and overcoats here. Or we could have eaten out a lot, but Puerto Vallarta’s restaurants are hard to beat.

Coming home is always wonderful, whether you are gone for a week or a month. The relative lack of traffic, the slower pace of everything, the mountains and the ocean, all feel just about perfect.

How great to simply throw on a pair of shoes and hit the Malecon first thing in the morning, sharing hellos with the other regulars.

During the first few days back, we saw a full moon, some dolphins frolicking and a turtle giving birth. Yes, I’d definitely say our 2015 is off to a good start.

Then again, make that a great start.

T

he Centro Historico or downtown area is the heart of our beautiful city and where it all started.

There you will find the charming plaza centered with the old fashioned bandstand where the municipal band plays every Thursday and Sunday nights, which is across from our famous crowned church of Our Señora de Guadalupe.

The City Hall is on one side of the main plaza where the Tourist Department is located with loads of infor-

mation about what to do in Vallarta.

Across from the main plaza is Los Arcos Outdoor Theater which offers free live entertainment on many nights. If you walk up Guerrero Street you will come to Gringo Gulch neighbourhood where the first foreign residents built their homes along the Rio Cuale as a result of fame brought to our city by Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and many more film stars. If walk on the street behind the church to arrive at Los Cuatro Vientos Hotel and Restaurant, where these stars gathered to dine and enjoy the fabulous view of the city.

The renowned restaurants such as Café des Artistes, Trio, Hacienda San Angel , El Arrayan, and Barcelona Tapas are all located in this area. As I was walking around downtown today I was happy to see many more tourists visiting the shops and restaurants. There is something very special about this area, a feeling of nostalgia for the small town we once were, but which still offers most things you would find in the center of small towns around the world.

As owner of an art gallery in the heart of Vallarta since 1989, I have been accustomed to shopping in the central area for clothing, jewelry, fabrics, art supplies, handicrafts, drug and nutrition products, printing, copies, custom T shirts, groceries,

cafes, restaurants, ice cream, travel agencies, appliances, the artisan markets, art galleries, pottery, leather goods, even hardware, all within a few blocks walking distance.

Parking on the street can be difficult to find but there is a parking garage on Morelos Street and the buses run

Kathleen Carrillo Gallery

K

athleen Carrillo Gallery has just received a shipment of giclee prints of some of her most popular images.

Be sure to stop by and check out the new ones available.

Each print is signed, numbered, hand embellished and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

The editions are limited to 100. See them at her new location 325 Constitution, in Old Town. or go to www.

KathleenCarrilloGalleries. com<http://www.kathleencarrillogalleries.com/> Don’t forget, Kathleen Carrillo Gallery and Studio is offering her one day acrylic painting classes.

Come at 10am and leave at

constantly and you never have to wait long for a passing taxi. Many people who visit Puerto Vallarta only know the Centro Historico from a tour bus window or perhaps walking on the Malecon, but miss the flavor and ambience of the side streets. There you will experience true friendliness of the local residents and merchants and get a feeling of the real Mexico .

Check online for the Vallarta Shopping Directory which offers information about many of the downtown and southside businesses with

MEN AND WOMEN’S JEWELRY AND ACCESORIES. CASSANDRA SHAW JEWELRY 223 9734 BASILIO BADILLO 276 OLD TOWN OPEN DAILY

5pm with a beautiful painting.

Three different options, Landscapes, Tropical Flowers or a Foodie class.

Classes include all of your supplies. Kathleen is a master instructor at her 'Monkey see, Monkey do'

photos, information about their products and contact information, under 20 different categories. http://vallartashoppingdirectory.blogspot.com or www.vallartadining-shopping.com The motto of the

teaching technique.

Go to her teaching website www.YourCreativeAwakening.com<http:// www.yourcreativeawakening.com/> and click on Studio Classes to find dates and subjects.

Centro Historico has always been “The heart of shopping, dining, culture and fun,” so help us preserve this area by getting out and visiting the shops restaurants and historical sites.

Basilio Badillo 269 A Puerto Vallarta, Jal Mon - Sat 2pm-11 pm (322) 223 3734 From USA or Canada 1-269-282-9550 info.divinodante@gmail.com www.divinodante.com

10

sports / local Random Thoughts from the Tribune sports Desks

Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

By Joel Hansen I have returned from the frozen tundra of Alberta, where I celebrated my first white Christmas in 4 years. I took the boy snowboarding in the Rockies for a couple of days which incidentally I am still awesome at, drank so much Baileys and coffee that now my coffee tastes weird without it and honed my snow shoveling skills.

My beard served me well in the face of my first Canadian winter in many years, but now that I am back in PV it has returned to its usual state of constant itchiness and salsa collection.

• The BCS final was last night, so of course I will start with Australian league darts.

Last week the final of the Invitational Darts Tournament in Melbourne was halted after a riot broke out among members of the crowd.

The match which saw Michael van Gerwen comeback from 5-1 and 8-4 deficits before eventually triumphing over Australian Simon Whitlock 9-8, was stopped for nearly an hour as officials attempted to restore some order at the Etihad Stadium.

Plastic chairs were thrown and tables were overturned as spectators ran amok at the tournament which is in its third year.

Drunken Aussies (!!?) were jumping on the tables until they broke in half and some were body slamming other crowd members.

Security guards tried and failed to defuse the situation, before dozens

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Culture Shock

of riot police entered the stadium and as an added bonus many of these dartheads were dressed up in costume!

Props to Van Gerwen for bearing down and winning the match amid all the violence and the one hour delay. What focus, what razorsharp focus and he didn’t even spill any of his lager.

• Cristiano Ronaldo won his 3rd Ballon d'Or and second in a row.

I guess the voters forgot about Ronaldo’s lame play during the World Cup. You know hands on his hips, the ball a few feet away but making no effort to run it down, screaming at his teammates for not running the flow of play through him. Sure the guy can play and outside of the WC he had a great year, but I love Messi and I guess I just don’t like anyone who is as pretty and fit as I am. Honestly, when I look at Ronaldo I swear it’s like looking in a mirror sometimes.

• I spent this past weekend at Los Muertos watching NFL and coming to the realization that I know nothing about football. I went 0-4 on my bets and cheated on my New Year’s resolution diet.

• On that note I will finish up with the BCS final. This had all the makings of being a great game, but provided further proof that I know nothing about this sport...After the first Oregon drive this intrepid report was heard to say, “Whoa, I

I

think Oregon is gonna blow Ohio out of the building, they have no chance.” Seriously, maybe the Tribune should move me over to the agriculture beat.

I started out watching this game at a table of 10 Ducks fans and at the final whistle there were 3 of us left. Ohio State was the better team and a shining example that playing “regular” football still works. You know, giving the ball to a downhill running back and not worrying about all the gimmicks, uniforms and tempo. Ohio State was clearly the better team, but I am sure that did not console my friend Lindsay, who is not only an Oregon native, but also had a special, more personal reason to root for a Ducks victory. Sorry, it didn’t happen last night, but remember Ducks fans there is plenty of room on the Eagles bandwagon, where hopefully Mariota and Chip will be reunited next year.

• And finally, I would like to take a moment to call out one of our readers, Bill Hegelund. Bill has been coming to PV for many years and this year he brought a number of baseballs and gloves that he had collect back in the states. After accidently reading my column a few weeks ago he contacted me and asked me to help distribute them to the kids who play pick up at the stadium each afternoon. The kids were grateful and the balls and gloves much needed.

Gracias Bill.

f you have recently become an expatriate family in Mexico, then you have made a leap of faith that landed you: a) in an immigration office line about 4,985 feet long and several feet wide, depending on your unique and brow-furrowing foreigner status; b) in a pickle, because you don’t have a clue how you can keep your American car here indefinitely without being pulled over every time you leave your home, the beach, or Costco or c) in crisis, because your children are processing the HECK out of this life transition.

You are now wondering if you might have made the biggest mistake of your life. You are wondering if you could turn that SUV around and go back to Saskatchewan; to the life which you told everyone was crushing your spirit.

You are wondering if you can ask your sister-in-law to return your bread maker.

You are wondering if that would be as humiliating as it looks on paper.

If you can relate to any or all of these and you have now begun sweating profusely and feeling a large vein pulsing in your forehead, you are not alone.

And you aren’t about to have a stroke (probably). You are in culture shock, and you are going to be okay.

The worst of my own culture shock happened the first night I ever spent in Mexico in Ciudad Obregon, fourteen years ago.

When I walked into the hotel restaurant with my partner, everyone looked at me as though my hair were on fire.

I fervently hoped that it was not, because I didn’t want to reach up to check and subsequently set fire to my hand as well (before reaching the fire extinguisher, I had it gently pointed out to me

that gueras were not so common in that part of the city. So, not on fire. Just blonde).

That night I slept with one foot on the floor because I didn’t know enough Spanish to ask if the ice in my drink was made from filtered water.

I could just imagine Montezuma waiting around the corner, chuckling and rubbing his hands together in vengeful anticipation (And there you’ll see where a hyperactive imagination gets you).

By the time we arrived in Vallarta on day three, I was already calming down. I had seen the ocean and palm trees, and I was ready for the beach and a fruity drink.

On the morning of day four, things got briefly precarious again when I washed my hair and let it air dry. I glanced in the mirror and realized, to my horror, that the Vallarta humidity had transformed me into my father’s maiden aunt.

However, I had been recruited by the American School whose administration ensures that every new teacher effortlessly lands in the pillow-y softness of a fully equipped condo with a pool on day one. And once I had the fruity drink in my hand, I knew I was home.

But I’ll admit that there are STILL moments where all my Canadian blood enters my head and I wonder how I can stay a minute longer in a place where people don’t line up in an orderly fashion or apologize for tripping over someone else’s foot. Here’s what I do: 1) Take a deep breath 2) Smile wide (I will probably frighten some people, but I do it anyway) 3) Look around 4) Congratulate myself for living in a place where even the downtown parking lot has a million-dollar view of the sunset 5) Get a fruity drink. With lots of ice.

real estate

11

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Buying a Beachfront Property in Puerto Vallarta:

Playa los Muertos, Playa Olas Altas, Playa Camarones and the Malecon Fabien Madesclaire and Ariel O’Donnell

Fabien@g3mex.com

If you have real estate questions, or want to know more about beachfront properties, contact Fabien anytime at G3MEX Real Estate Group: 322-209-0832. Or visit us in out new office in Old Town on Calle Amapas, right near the Hotel Emperador.

W

e’ll spend the several couple of weeks giving our Vallarta Tribune readers a tour of the wide variety of beachfront property opportunities available around the Bay of Banderas. We have a lot of options, with different choices for different lifestyles.

This week we start with our beaches at the foot Old Town Puerto Vallarta.

Playa los Muertos and Playa Olas Altas Playa Los Muertos and Play Olas Altas; located in front of the Romantic Zone in Colonia Emilio Zapata are all about action. There are always a lot of people enjoying sand and surf during the high season, and restaurants and businesses abound. Though, surprisingly, mornings and the low season can feel tranquil and even private. Los Muertos and Olas

Altas are the perfect spot for taking your daily morning walk or run, and having a leisurely breakfast, lunch or cocktail in the afternoon.

An amazing location for people watching, and enjoying the flavor of Mexico: Mariachis, beach vendors (we have a friend who visits every year and only shops for gifts on the beach), fresh sliced mangos, barbequed shrimp on a skewer, a foot massage, parasailing—you can get whatever you want and

never leave the comfort of you beach chair and your cocktail.

As real estate investments go, a condo on Play Los Muertos or Playa Olas Altas is an excellent one. Resale is a breeze, and if you want to rent it out, it will rarely sit empty.

Playa Camarones

Playa Camarones is located at the foot of Colonia 5 de Diciembre, and is comparatively tranquil.

Fewer restaurants and vendors, though there are a couple of favorite spots. El Barracuda is a great brunch and cocktail hour restaurant. Here you can still be in town, but there is not the high level of activity that you have on Playa los Muertos and Play Olas Altas.

Playa Camarones is conveniently situated near shopping, and buses, so you can easily get to another part of town. More street parking options are available, and owning a car is less of a headache around here.

The beach is very pretty and open, though, for swimming it is a little more tricky, with some odd tides. This is where the lifeguards train, so that might give you some idea on the recommended swimming level.

Property investment in this area is also great—with a number of smaller, seasonal units available.

Here, too, you will have a brisk rental business, with a lot of repeat clients, as many visitors want the convenience of being in town, but also want a more quiet beachfront experience.

Mexico sets borrower standard

By Ben Bain and Eric Martin

M

exico is close to rivaling Chile as a Latin American standard for creditworthiness as more investors anticipate that President Enrique Pena Nieto will deliver on his promises for economic growth.

Their conviction stems from the constitutional changes pushed through by the 48-year-old president, from opening Mexico’s oil industry to private investment to spurring competition in a telecommunications industry dominated by billionaire Carlos Slim.

Now, two decades after the country needed a $50 billion U.S.-led bailout to avoid defaulting, the cost to insure the nation’s debt against non-payment has tumbled.

Credit-default swaps dropped below Chile, the region’s highestrated sovereign, for the first time ever in June.

“Mexico is truly a benchmark right now,” Gerardo Rodriguez, a former deputy finance minister and now a portfolio manager and investment strategist at BlackRock Inc., said in a telephone interview

from San Francisco.

“Mexico is probably right there at the top of a very small list of countries that have shown willingness to reform.” In his first two years in office, Pena Nieto pushed through the biggest economic overhaul since the North American Free Trade Agreement took effect in 1994.

The government estimates that allowing companies including Exxon Corp. and Chevron Corp. to produce crude on their own for the first time since the 1930s will help lift annual growth to above 5 percent, a level not seen since 2010, by the end of Pena Nieto’s six-year term in 2018.

Default Swaps

The cost to protect Mexico’s debt with five-year default swaps has dropped 16 basis points, or 0.16 percentage point, since Pena Nieto took office on Dec. 1, 2012, to 86 basis points, data compiled

by Bloomberg show. Similar contracts for Chile cost 76 basis points.

A basis point equals $1,000 annually on a contract protecting $10 million of debt.

The drop in Mexico’s bond risk during the first third of Pena Nieto’s term continues a trend from the end of Felipe Calderon’s presidency, when swaps tumbled from a record-high of 601 basis points amid the financial crisis in October 2008.

While Moody’s Investors Service raised the nation’s rating to an unprecedented A3 after the legal changes were passed, the country needs to generate faster growth and bolster confidence in the government before the nation will receive another boost, according to analyst Mauro Leos, who is based in Mexico City.

Latin America’s second-biggest economy is forecast to grow 2.5 percent this year, according to the median estimate of 28 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg, after expanding just 1.4 percent in 2013, about a third the pace of Chile.

Moody’s rates the South American country three steps higher at Aa3, in line with Japan and Belgium.

Investors’ Perceptions “We need tangible evidence

of an improvement in terms of Mexico’s institutions, the legal framework, transparency, the rule of law,” Leos said in an interview on Sept. 10.

Alejandro Diaz de Leon, Mexico’s head of public debt, said macroeconomic policies that the government has had in place for many years combined with structural changes to the economy are helping boost investors’ perceptions of the country.

Mexico has “prudent management of public finances, monetary policy and appropriate regulation of financial markets,” he said in a Sept. 9 telephone interview.

Mexico’s drive to keep spending under control has its origins in the so-called Tequila Crisis of the mid-1990s.

In 1994, U.S. interest-rate increases helped spark a peso devaluation that fueled capital flight. The recession the following year, when the economy contracted 6.2 percent, was among the worst since the 1930s.

The government cut spending in 1996 as the economy returned to growth.

Pimco Investment The nation’s gross debt as a percentage of gross domestic product will be 48 percent this year, compared with 67 percent for Brazil, Latin America’s biggest economy, and a 53 percent average for the region, according to projections from the International Monetary Fund.

Pena Nieto enacted bylaws to break Mexico’s seven-decade oil monopoly on Aug. 11, a legal change that he estimates will help bring in about $250 billion in extra foreign investment.

He has called it the centerpiece of his presidency, winning debt-market advocates including BlackRock Chief Executive Officer Laurence D. Fink and Pacific Investment Management Co., the world’s largest bond manager.

“Mexico is a leader in the region, both in terms of the open architecture of its capital markets and its leadership in undertaking significant and positive structural reforms,” Michael Gomez, the head of Pimco’s emerging-markets portfolio management team, said in a Sept. 17 e-mail.

Original: www.bloomberg.com

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Frankies

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ewly opened, Frankieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is fast becoming the new favorite Italian restaurants. They sell delicious, thin crust pizza. They also have incredible artisan pastas and salads. Their Italian chef, who definitely knows his way around the kitchen and their Italian owner guarantee you are eating an authentic Italian Mangiare. Prices are low to moderate. Try their Italian wines; the list is small but carefully selected.

travel

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Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

To Las Animas

By Gala Milne

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e’d planned to make it to the trailhead for 8am.

Segmenting the day into calculated activities had seemed a good idea the night previous.

A brisk hike in the morning, back on the beach for the afternoon sun and early evening bargaining before meeting newly arrived Vancouver friends for our final night of margaritas on the malecon. A well-packed day to make up for our week of lizard-like behaviour.

Having been my third trip to Vallarta, I realize now that my experiences have been almost entirely confined to the sand and the shops. I’m not complaining about the Vitamin D or the artisan textiles, but I guess I'd forgotten about the jungle lying in wait just outside the city’s reach.

The two hours of shaded weaving ocean-side walking path from Boca de Tomatlan to Los Animas was a welcome surprise.

We woke up late, a triumphant win for our remnant tequila hangovers, and didn't arrive in Boca until noon. Coffee from the conveniently located OXXO quick mart supplied us ample energy and the bouncy bus ride out of Vallarta primed our eyes for something new.

There are about 50 flat wide steps leading down into the town.

The corner store supplies a mean canned cocktail and just beyond that is the blue river and the little bridge with the wayward signs and the dusty donkeys and the artists’ residence and then you're on your way.

Despite the trail’s relative ease, the start is slow when you’re an amateur photo-taker toting three

types of camera. Each serve their own vital purpose: The Canon heavyweight for magazine-ready portraits, the disposable kodak for that vintage-loving hipster inside us all and, of course, the smart phone pocket cam for those instauploads. Luckily, you won’t find free wifi on this trail or the destination. But if you look close enough, you might see a Dingy Purplewing catching some shade or the intricately cross-stitched home of a jeweled arachnid waiting for a meal in the midday sun.

We cracked our canned cocktails under a humid canopy of green. Our legs were hungry for hiking and the heat misled us to thinking we’d worked up the sweat ourselves. We wandered past a

beach of bikini-clad men on a boat cruise and up a secret staircase back into the jungle. When we came upon the next beach, it was so pristine with silky bronze sand and turquoise waters and seemingly untouched by humans that we thought we’d better leave it as it’d been found. The majesty of the sight had stunned us. In retrospect we likely we should have stopped for a breather here…

Unless you’re travelling with a local’s knowledge, it’s hard to know what lies beyond your sight.

For this adventure we were well equipped with a hand-drawn map with a long squiggly line that took us from downtown Vallarta to the most glorious and peaceful playa of our week-long adventure in

PV in just a few short hours. We rejoiced for much longer than originally planned with micheladas, fresh guacamole and an oceanside massage while people floated in parachutes in the sky above.

A five-minute boat ride took us

back to the start of our hike and despite being a few hours behind schedule, we still managed to meet with our pals for dinner on the malecon and a night of dancing at La Bodeguita. I should have known that no one needs a watch in this town.

events

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SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

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e have an ongoing need for help transporting dogs to the States and Canada. The SPCA will take care of all the details and cost of transporting the animals. All you have to do is show up at the airport in Vallarta and one of our volunteers will meet you with the animal and get it checked in for the flight.

Another SPCA volunteer will meet the plane at your destination and pick up the dog. Stop by our table and we will answer any questions you might have.

Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. Contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com. You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv. com/home or on Facebook.

Our special volunteer of the week is Angela N Caponigro.

Angela formed part of our family last year when she took time out of her vacation to assist us at our sanctuary on our weekly PAWesome tours.

Having a soft spot for Dobermans, she met Poppy (now a very lucky Mia). The rest is beautiful history! Thank you Angela! We appreciate all that you do.

How to become a volunteer?

Volunteers are needed all over!

We have pawesome volunteers in Canada, the United States and of course here in Puerto Vallarta.

Volunteers do many tasks from visiting our shelter and walking, cuddling or taking care for our animals, driving people to and from the sanctuary, social media and web site work, posting online "For Adoption" ads, airport transportation, crate management in BC and Alberta, home checks, animal delivery to new homes, foster home management, newsletters, adoption stands, Farmers Market booth, networking and fundraising.

Our special volunteer couple this week is Carole and Bruce

Thom who provide an invaluable service to us by coordinating the recovery of our crates used for transporting our rescues to Edmonton.

You too can come and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization.

The goal is to get these animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk. You can also play with the animals, assist the vet or help with dinner time.

We have scheduled tours each week and vehicle space is limited.

We ask everyone to meet in the Costco parking lot beside the three large trees in open grassy area. You can either caravan in your own vehicle or ride with us out to the Sanctuary (reservations necessary).

The length of the tour is at the discretion of our visitors and can be anywhere from one to four hours in length.

Please feel free to bring donations and treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it.

And now, we have begun scheduling tours from Nuevo Vallarta so don’t hesitate to contact Nicole Martin at nicole@cupocity.com to make a reservation.

To see all the animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ spcapv.

Go to Photos where you will also find individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history.

EVENTS Thursday, January 15 at 11am PV Garden Club – Beautifying Vallarta At No Way Jose! restaurant in Old Town - Guest speaker will be Leslie Korn, PhD, MPH. Dr. Korn has lived locally since 1973 conducting traditional medicine and ethno botanical research and directing a public health clinic serving ‘comunidades indigenas’ in Cabo Corrientes. Lunch optons will be available. Open to new members.

Saturday, January 17 Deja New Fashion Show Luncheon at River Cafe at 12:30 pm $300 pesos - please purchase in advance. Fashions, three course meal, lots of raffle, silent auction, 50/50 and door prizes. All proceeds go to Pasitos de Luz - a non-profit organization that provides care for disabled children from low-income families in Puerto Vallarta.

Tickets at Deja New, Alexander A Salon, Cassandra Shaw, River Cafe or Nacho Daddy or email Barb at condo211@yahoo.ca Wednesday, January 21st Becas Breakfast at Daiquiri Dick’s at 9:30am $150 pesos must be purchased in advance.Lots of raffle and Silent

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com Auction prizes. Your participation insures that bright young Vallarta girls and boys have a chance to get the educations they want and deserve. For tickets to upcoming Becas events call Polly Vicars, at 223-1371.

Saturday, January 24th, 2015 4th Annual TASTE OF LA CRUZ Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle 3-7pm will feature restaurants, businesses, artisans and musicians from Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta.

Tuesday, January 27 at 10:30 am FASHION SHOW & BRUNCH Always a sold-out event this elegant fashion show and three-course brunch (with mimosas!) at Daiquiri Dick’s will feature gorgeous women’s and men’s fashions, original jewelry and a raffle for fabulous prizes is in support of the Purr Project – a no-kill feline sanctuary.

Tickets are $24us or $28cad. You may pay with credit card, PayPal or cash ($350 pesos). Tickets through Vallartatickets.com Thursday, January 29, 2015 XV ART AUCTION in support of Los Mangos Library Local and international artists auction off unique pieces of art and donate a minimum of 50% towards the library fundraising efforts. Los Mangos is funded solely by donations.

January 29th to February 1st

4th Annual Arena Vallarta International Charro Championships

29th January to February 1st National Charro Championship Daily competitions this isn’t like your rodeo back home, the 4th National Charro Championship ‘Grand Premio 2015’ is the perfect way to enjoy the real Mexico and its traditions. Friday evening will feature a Charro parade along the Malecon, always a stunning display of horsemanship. Not to be missed. $80 pesos a day at Arena Vallarta.

March 5-8, 2015 Wednesday, February 4th, 2015 John Ozzello memorial food bank fundraiser Enjoy a day of Whale Watching as well as helping to support the local food bank. $650pp 9am-4pm leaving Paradise Village Marina in Nuevo Vallarta Tickets: Sandi or Randy Nystrom 322-103-2828 Tuesday, February 17 at 9:00pm Mardi Gras – Puerto Vallarta Mark this date in your calendar.

Join up with friends and build a float or plan on hitting the street to watch this fantastic spectacle.

Plenty of other events happening in support. More information can be found at www.mardigraspv.com/

SE CONVOCA A LOS PROPIETARIOS DE LOMAS DE MISMALOYA A.C A LA ASMBLEA GENERAL ORDINARIA QUE SE LLEVARA ACABO EL DIA 14 DE FEBRERO DEL 2015, A LAS 11:00 a.m EN EL HOTEL CASA IGUANA DEL AREA DE LOMAS DE MISMALOYA UBICADO EN Avenida 5 de Mayo 455 Col. Guadalupe Victoria C.P. 48394 Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco México en Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco:

FIRST CALL ORDER TO THE OWNERS OF PROPIETARIOS DE LOMAS DE MISMALOYA TO THE GENERAL ORDINARY ASSEMBLY THAT WILL TAKE PLACE ON THE 14 FEBRUARY 2015at 11:00 a.m IN THE HOTEL CASA IGUANA LOCATED IN May 5th Avenue 455 Col. Guadalupe Victoria CP 48394 Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco Mexico Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco:

Download 200,000+ brand logos in vector format for free http://www.logoeps.com/

Old Town Farmers Marke Taste the “Food of the Gods” at the OTFM

By Erin Staley

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f the very mention of chocolate makes you salivate, then your tastebuds will be divinely satiated with Xocodiva's Artisan Chocolates. Since 2007, Xocodiva (sho-CO-dee-vah) has delighted locals and visitors with the subtle aromas and incomparable decadence of their chocolates, famous chocolate dipped bananas and most recently their artisan ice cream.

Xocodiva honors Mexico as the birthplace of chocolate by blending Mesoamerican mythology and tradition with European artistry.

Xocodiva – xoco from the Mayan word xocolatl and diva for “god” in Latin – delivers the deliciousness of cacao, commonly hailed as the Mayan’s “Food of the Gods”.

Xocodiva’s chocolatiers, Charlotte Semple and Carole Fast, devote special attention to the artistry, ingredients and flavor of their divine delicacies. Their unique blend of European couverture with fresh local ingredients excite the senses and caress the palate.

From luxurious truffles to creamy caramels, every Xocodiva artisan chocolate is carefully handcrafted in small batches right here in Old Town Vallarta. Tempting flavors range from the traditional classic dark truffle, passion fruit, espresso, maple walnut, lemon, tequila and champagne to the everso-popular chili.

An elegantly wrapped box of Xocodiva Artisan Chocolates is ideal for those who want to share something extraordinary. Whether you're searching for the perfect hostess gift, celebrating a special occasion, or bringing the “Food of the Gods” to a loved one, the gift of Xocodiva chocolate will reflect your style and complement your sentiments.

Their variety of chocolates and confections make a great gift for those back home. Choose from a wide selection of hand wrapped bars, almond barks, chocolate covered coffee beans, butter pecan toffee, or pure cacao beans direct

from Tapachula, Mexico. While shopping in town or for those planning to travel, ice packs are available to ensure that your chocolates arrive home in perfect condition, every time.

Visit the “Xocodivas” at the OTFM on Saturdays or weekly at their Zona Romantica shop (Basillio Badillo #168B) from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call (322) 113-0352, visit Xocodiva online or join their Facebook community.

Don't forget to pop in next door where Lix by Xocodiva is serving up delicious artisan ice cream by the scoop, banana split or sundae.

Go for the ever-popular cherries & chocolate, rocky road, salt caramel & candied pecan, triple berry or double chocolate chip. Lix is open daily (noon to 11 p.m.) at 168C Basilio Badillo.

Meet the Market Besides tasty artisan chocolates, our market features all sorts of “make it, bake it, grow it” goods and services. From traditional Mexican artisan products to ready-to-eat artisan foods and from non-profit organizations to on-site massage and chiropractic services, we have everything to

keep you and your loved ones smiling. (And toes tappin' with live music!) Ours is a festive “make it, bake it, grow it” North American style market that celebrates the tradition and culture of Mexico’s outdoor tianguis markets. It is now a registered non-profit/association civil organization that focuses on the “buy local” movement as well as entrepreneurial and community development.

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You're Invited!

Come on out and join us this Saturday (9:30-2 in Lazaro Cárdenas Park, Old Town) for artisan products, live music and unforgettable moments in sunny Vallarta. And don't forget to save your appetite for our the fine fare of our International Food Court (located under shaded pergolas on the eastern side of Lazaro Cárdenas Park). Select from a wide spread of Thai, Indian, traditional Mexican favorites (tacos, empanadas, burritos and green pozole) and vegan dishes, such as hamburgers, al pastor and falafels.

We're open every Saturday from November 1 through April 25. For market updates, visit www. oldtownfm.com and “like” us on Facebook.

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et - Tianguis Cultural

Find us at Parque Lázaro Cárdenas Romantic Zone Saturdays 9:30 - 2:00 pm

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Artisan Bakery Artisan Bakery

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Artisan Bakery

Artisan Bakery

…where bread is an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s …where bread is ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

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…where bread is an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

…where bread is an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

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Swimwear and beachwear made ​​to order!

Heriberto Saucedo Pérez Artista Diseñador Cel. 3222.190 56 32 Fb: Heriko Joyeria herikojoyeria@hotmail.com Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Teresa Moreno Fb: TYBikinisYMas

Tel. 322-13-04-77 ty-bikinis-y-mas@hotmail.com Federalismo #1383 Colonia Lomas del Coapinole Pitillal, Jal

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riviera nayarit

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Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan

www.rivieranayaritfun.com

For any questions, comments or information about tours, rentals, restaurant and entertainment please contact me at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com or Cat@NewEnergyConsciousness.com

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here are so many amazing shows and entertainment going on around the north end of the bay that it’s impossible to get around to all of them every week, but it sure is fun trying! The live music, FunRaisers and live stage shows abound so please check the allLaCruz.com calendar and the allBucerias.com calendars for more action around this end of the bay. Each week I will be highlighting an entertainer or business and finding out more about people who live and work here, their lives and where they come from.

This week it’s the El Asadero Restaurant in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

El Asadero Restaurant El Asadero is kicking up their heels and as a new La Cruz restaurant they are finding their niche.

El Asadero Restaurant is a local family owned and operated restaurant in La Cruz. Sofia, who is from Puerto Vallarta, and Damian, who is from New York, met each other in Puerto Vallarta back in 2004, and were married two years later. Sofia is the niece and granddaughter of the Ocho Tostadas family. The restaurant business is alive and well on Sofie’s side of the family in Puerto Vallarta. Sofie’s grandfather, Jacinto Macedo lived in Puerto Vallarta his entire life. He has very recently passed away at the young age of 101! And is survived by his wife Rosario Macedo Covamubuis.

Rosario still lives in PV in Versailles behind their original restaurant “Ocho Tostadas” that was started

by Jacinto 45 years earlier and now run by cousins along with the other family members who run the other locations like Freddy’s Ocho Tostadas behind the stadium. Rest in peace Jacinto Macedo.

Damian and Sophie have two

young children who are growing up bilingual and go to school at Campo Verde. With Sofia coming from Puerto Vallarta they have a huge family base here on the bay with a lot of friends and fun activities which keep them quite happy and busy when not working.

The land where the El Asadero was built was purchased from Don Guillermo (aka Donny G.) with construction beginning the very same year with the permits granted

by Hecor Paniagua and help from Lorena Jimenez Paniagua. The design of El Asadero is a combination by Damian Campbell and Sofia Zavala and “High Contractors”. The quality of the construction is quite amazing with high vaulted ceilings with over 15,000 bricks in the boveda created by a gentleman from Guanajuato named Alejandro

Ponce Martinez y Martinez. This ceiling is very unique and a one of a kind on the Bahia de Banderas and worth seeing.

The state of the art kitchen was designed by Damian Campbell, Joe Jacks Fish Shack and Rogelio Diaz. The Sound System is AMAZING! They have an amazing surround sound system designed

by Innovox Audio which really packs a punch with a clear sweet sound. Innovox Audio also designs sound systems for Cirque Soleil and others. This sound system is perfect for parties or any event.

It’s obvious as I watch bartender Fernando from Guadalajara creating cocktails that he has been making drinks professionally for a while. An energetic, professional

and handsome bartender is the bartender for me! The bar is set up with select choices of tequilas and top shelf liquors with very competitive pricing. They also offer daily beer specials.

A beautiful building design with the high vaulted ceilings give the feeling of space and comfort with large dining tables available for seating up to 120 easily with plenty of room left for dancing. Add the amazing sound system and you have yourself a party. Catering and parties are an El Asadero specialty!

Take some time and stop by to check out the amazing architecture for yourself and say a hello to Damian and his lovely wife Sofia.

Seating is outside is nice, and inside with large tables available

for groups, and also a comfortable seating along the wall with padded seating for drinks and good conversation. They have an outdoor space for smokers as well if you’re seated inside.

The general vibe at El Asadero is “chill”. It’s a place where you can relax with your friends or family.

Their location is easy to find.

At the light in La Cruz head one block down to the Glorieta and El Asadero will be on your left in the beautiful bright blue building. You know, when I first saw them painting it I thought …holy Blue Cow! …but I must say now that it’s all done with the finish work it looks pretty cool, especially at night!

Cats Picks for the Week Bucerias Fridays – Luna Lounge One Night Only Cabaret Amy and Freddy “The girl with the Voice of an Angel and the Mouth of a sailor” Or check out Duo Enlace Muical at Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge.

Saturday: Keep it Country with the Banderas Bay Country Band at Luna Lounge Sunday: Shanbhala Meditation Class 10-11am at the old Bucerias Bilingual Community Center (now the Conrad Center) Then go party at Los Arroyos Verdes for a pool party with live music…or the playa at Breakers…both good fun!

Monday: Workout with Bev at Breakers 10:30 – 11:30, then Sweat Lodge at Los Arroyos Verdes 5:30 Tuesday: Beach Day then Crazy Bitches at Luna Lounge Wednesday: Read a book then hit Breakers at 6pm for the What’s Up Band Thursdays: Bucerias Art Walk

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle

Friday: Latcho and Andrea at Black Forest Restaurant (reservations recommended) Saturday: Breakfast at Ana Banana Bar and Grill…live guitar music Sunday: Hangars Band at Las Paplapas 5:30 on the playa…

Monday: The Good Stuff classic rock and roll at Ana Banana’s Tuesday: Taco Tuesday at El Asadero then party on at Pub Britannia for Open Mic Night Wednesday: Bingo at Pub Britannia 2:30…then live music at Ana’s ..you never know who is going to show up!

Thursday: Beach Day…then Game Night at Pub Britannia Then next week we can pick entirely different things to do …or repeat!

Also, remember that the Funny Bones Funraiser is coming up at Las Palapas in La Cruz on Feb 3rd… with Funkswagon playing, so get your tickets!

riviera nayarit

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Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Introducing: Nuevo Vallarta’s new Stage and Forum Theater

The Beach Cleanup has sparked a cultural shift

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By Debra White

Weekly Line-Up of El Asadero Fun: Open from Tuesday – Friday 5pm-11pm – Sat & Sun 2pm – 11pm Closed on Mondays All of the food prepared is local and flavorful, and good! From wings and burgers and whole chickens / breasts to steak and salads….

A daily special for Mexican BBQ Parrillada –All you can eat Arrachera, chicken, Chorizo, served with guacamole and all the fixin’s with homemade tortillas.

Taco Tuesdays are awesome! Every taco is half priced! Featuring the best fish and shrimp tacos on the bay.

Thursday Ladies Night …Ladies it’s all you can drink for only 100 pesos (national drinks for tequila, rum and vodka) Watch NFL Sports on the two large HD flat screens at the bar with comfortable swivel seating.

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f you live or are currently vacationing in Puerto Vallarta or Riviera Nayarit, there is a new entertainment venue this season. Stage and Forum Theatre, Nuevo Vallarta's newest stage, is introducing some of Puerto Vallarta's top rated shows to their Nayarit residents and visitors.

Nestled among the tranquilidad of Nuevo Vallarta's upscale hotels, condos and vacation homes, this theater provides an intimate entertainment experience with some of Puerto Vallarta's favorite stars.

This is not to say that north bay residents, like myself, won't still journey to our favorite 'haunts' and entertainment venues in Old Town Puerto Vallarta, but it's nice to have a new option available.

Puerto Vallarta's darling, song

diva Kim Kuzma, officially cut the ribbon for Stage and Forum's opening in November. Kim and her band will bring 'Acoustico,' Puerto Vallarta's Number 1 rated show of 2013-2014, to this new venue. Kim's shows at The Red Room / Act II Stages in Old Town will also continue throughout the winter months. Those of us that love Kim and the band are sure to return again and again for our dose of 'Acoustico' and an evening of musical magic.

Other performers and events scheduled at Stage and Forum include: Patsy Cline, Buddy Holly, Elvis, Luna Rumba, Mikki Prost and a full stage production of the musical Chicago.

Stage and Forum is located at Paseo de la Marina, Condominio El Muelle, Local 11 in Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit.

Jessica

his Saturday January 10th marks the 8th edition of the Riviera Nayarit Beach Cleanup Network. Seven cleanups took place in 2014 and this year all 12 months will have beach cleanup days scheduled. These civilian actions have achieved a domino effect that has sparked a multifaceted cultural shift.

The current registered groups— which number 15—have kept growing over the past few months.

This has provoked a change in the participation levels of the people who inhabit the coastal communities.

Pedro Galaviz, President of the Grupo Grano de Arena, confirmed these statements. His group began cleaning up in La Peñita de Jaltemba, inspiring other volunteers to come together and do their part in Guayabitos, Los Ayala and San Pancho.

“We’re very pleased that other people have joined in,” commented Galaviz. “We’ve even had the participation of the Red Tortuguera in order to liberate turtles on the days we clean up at la Peñita.”

The trash removal, the image improvements, the care of the environment and other positive effects of these activities has incentivized the coordination between the authorities and the community for the benefit of the people of Nayarit.

“During the holidays the tourists would see us cleaning up and they’d thank us, pitch in and put their trash in the bags. From the moment we started the program we’ve also seen how people have stopped throwing trash on the beaches,” Galaviz pointed out.

“We’d like to thank the Riviera Nayarit CVB for this fantastic initiative that is still viable and must be continued throughout the year,” he added.

For more information and comments, if you’re interested in more details about the project including the hours and meeting places or would like to propose your community join the Riviera Nayarit Beach Cleanup Network, please call 2 97 25 16 ext. 108, and someone from the Riviera Nayarit CVB will be happy to help you.

January 26 – February 2 San Blas, Nayarit

Alba

In her bikini enjoying the beaches of the Riviera Nayarit is causing a stir on the Internet. The North American actress who was once named the sexiest woman in the world by FHM—and is still one of the most beautiful ladies in Hollywood— recently spent her holidays in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

If you are looking for an exciting weekend of birding – consider heading to San Blas for the 10th Annual International Migratory Bird Festival The state of Nayarit is a bird watchers paradise, with 546 species of birds, of which 428 are endemic.

Bird watching tours, conferences, seminars, workshops are combined with artistic and cultural activities. The festival theme is environmental consciousness. jaltembabaylife.com/blog/2014/01/10th-international-migratory-bird-festival-in-san-blas/

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classified and more...

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Cruise Ship Welcome to Puerto Vallarta Friday 16/01/2015 CROWN PRINCESS PRINCESS CRUISES 08:00 a.m.

05:00 p.m.

2,600 guests Saturday 17/01/2015 STATENDAM HOLLAND AMERICA LINE 08:00 a.m.

05:00 p.m.

1,266 guests Tuesday 20/01/2015 GRAND PRINCESS PRINCESS CRUISES 08:00 a.m.

04:00 p.m.

2,500 guests

Bill White Painting Stolen

Tianguis and Farmer´s Markets All the towns have some type of weekly market. In Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit we are blessed with many excellent farmer’s, artisan and co-op markets. Most are open from 9am – 2pm unless stated.

Bucerias Tianguis - Year-round Sundays In the arroyo La Cruz Sunday Mercado Sundays At the La Cruz Marina Bucerias Market - Monday Artwalk Plaza Guayabitos – Mondays year-round In the main plaza Nuevo Vallarta Farmers Market –Tuesdays San Pancho Market / Tuesday in Main Plaza La Cruz Tianguis Year-round Wednesday Below the glorietta La Penita Tianguis – Thursday year-round In the main plaza Marina Vallarta Market – Thursdays In the main plaza Marsol Market to the pier - Friday Sayulita’s Farmer’s Market - downtown Friday Tres gallinas y un gallo - Saturdays 466 Venustiano Carranza Old Town Farmers Market – Saturdays Lazaro Cardenas Park Lo de Marcos Tianguis – Saturdays In the main plaza

Important Numbers Emergency phone numbers. The police station or the fire department is 060. For Non-Emergency calls, dial (322) 290-0507 for the Pol & (322) 224-7701 for the Fire Department (322)223 9476.

Ambulance Services Red Cross Ambulance: 222-1533 / (065) Global Ambulance: 226-1014 Hospitals Ameri-Med Hospital: 226-2080 Cornerstone Hospital: 224-9400 San Javier Hospital: 226-1010 / Medasist Hospital: 223-0444 C.M.Q. Hospital: 223-1919 / I.M.S.S. Hospital: 224-3838 Regional Hospital: 224-4000 Other Important Phone Numbers Motor Vehicle Dept: 224-8484 Consumer Protection (PROFECO): 225-0000

Stolen this week from the Loft gallery. It is entitled "Quartet" and is 90 cm. x 60 cm. If you see it, Contact john@theloftgaleria.com Or the police.

Immigration Office: 221-1380 * 224 7719 01.800.468.8722 National Telegraph: 224-7970 Electric Company (CFE): 071 Water Company (SEAPAL): 223-1516 Municipal Services: 223-2500 Tourist Protection: 223-2500 Ministerio Publico: 222-1762 Animal Protection: 221-0078 Wake-Up Service: 031 Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006 Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145

Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900 Emergency Phone for Sayulita Dial 066 from any standard land line.

Dial 080 from Mexican cell phones. To report suspicious activity in Sayulita, please dial 045-322-141-5994.

Emergency Numbers for Bucerias & La Cruz Numbers for the Police dept. in case of emergency are 291-0049 and 291-0666.

Emergency number: 066 Civil Protection (Fire, Ambulance): 291-0295 Ambulance, Santa Rosa Clinic: 298-0157

classified and more...

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Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Adorable Dog in the Spotlight...King George Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

by Janice Gonzalez

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his handsome fellow is so special, he has been crowned with the name King George (but most of his friends call him Georgy). He was rescued in Mexico when he was just one week old, and was bottle fed by a special volunteer.

King George is now 9 months old, and weighs a healthy 50 pounds.

We aren’t sure what his heritage is, but we call him a Giant Jack Russell Terrier (possibly some Labrador in there, giving him his size).

He is playful and extremely intelligent, with a big toothy grin.

Unfortunately this sweet boy has mild hip dysplasia, which thankfully

Live Music

Everything in the store is on sale: Discounts from 10 to 75%!!

Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10 to 5 pm Saturday 10 to 2 pm 497 Francisco Madero & Naranjo Emiliano Zapata 044 322 100 1577

Café Roma Encino 287 Centro Beboteros Diaz Ordaz 565 Malecon Benito’s Paninoteca Bar Nima Bay, Local 12, “Marina Vallarta” El Dorado Pulpito # 102, Playa los Muertos” El Patio de mi Casa Guerrero 311 esq. Matamoros

doesn’t bother him unless he over does it.

He still enjoys going for walks and the company of other dogs. He even is ok with cats.

Georgy is neutered, fully dewormed, and up to date on his vaccinations.

He will make a wonderful addition to a loving family.

El Rio BBQ Bar elriobbqbar.com Encore Lazaro Cardenas51, Bucerias La Bodeguita Del Medio Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858, Malecon” Murphy’s Irish Pub Morelos 484 Altos 1, Centro Paradise Stage Concerts Pulpito 127 at Olas Altas La Palapa Pulpito#103, Playa los Muertos” Las Adelitas Av. Fluvial Vallarta 234

Nacho Daddy 287 Basilio Badillo Philo’s Delfin15, La Cruz de Huanacaxle” Paradise Stage Paradise Community Center Pulpito 127 Que? Pasa Aquiles Serdan 625, Col Emiliano Zapata The River Café Isla del Rio Cuale Local4

Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent Englis Spoken

PICK UP YOUR COPY OF THE TRIBUNE AT PUERTO VALLARTA TOURISM OFFICES OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET A PAGE IN THE SUN FREDY TUCAN´S

PANCAKE HOUSE CONSULATE OFFICES DECAMERON RESORT ELEMENT REALTY GROUP

YO-YO MO´S MARINA RIVIERA NAYARIT LA CRUZ FARMERS MARKET OSO RESTAURANT

charity

22

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Non - Profit and Charitable Organizations For visitors to Puerto Vallarta who wish to support the less privileged in our paradise, this is a list of some of the many organizations that could benefit from such kind gestures. If you would like your organization recognized here, please email details to editor@vallartatribune.com.

Acción En La Cruz aid residents of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle by providing provisions in exchange for community services performed.landon5120.wix.com/ accionenlacruz Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 recoverpv.com Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Magisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance americanlegion14.org Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@hotmail.com or mexonline.com\asilosanjuandiego.htm Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Eisenring at 224-9577.

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter - Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence. www.compassionforthefamily.org Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to high school and university students. Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285. puerto-vallarta.com/amf CANICA - Centre for Children with Cancer. Provides aid for treatment and services including transportation to GDL. Contact Director, Evelia Basañes 322-123-5688.

Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children. Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221-1908, Rita Millan (322) 141-6974. casamaximocornejo@gmail.com Centro Comunitario SETACGLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974 or paco@setac.com.mx Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped. Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

COLINA Spay and Neuter Clinic - Free and by-donation sterilization clinic in Old Town. Only

open Sundays, Contact: cez@ rogers.com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact – Transforming the lives of people living in chronic poverty. Job creation, education, emergency & more. Tax-deductible. Cell: (322) 133-7263 or ric@4compassion.org Corazon de Nina A safe, loving, home-environment for 20+ girls rescued from high-risk situations.

Donations & volunteers always welcome! Totally self-funded. www.corazondenina.mx Cruz Roja (Red Cross) Handles hospital and emergency service in Vallarta. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street. Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers.

2234311 or 22225 72 Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. familiesatthedump.org

Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita. org Tel. (329) 291 5053 Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez A cayro_13@hotmail.com grupoecologico.com Horizonte de Paz: Shelter for men of all ages who are troubled with alcohol & drug addiction.

Donato Schimizzi: 322 199 9523 or Roberto: 281 0644 dschimizzi@yahoo.com La Brigada de la Basur:a A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets.

Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. raises funds to the poor in Vallarta. Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org Navy League - assists in the transportation of donated medical supplies from the U.S., organizes work groups to paint and repair facilities, www.vallartanavyleague.org.

New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com Paraíso Felino AC Refuge and Adoption Centre for cats and kittens in the Bay of Banderas.

Luis Donaldo Cel. (322) 120-4092 Pasitos de Luz - substitute home for low income children with any type of handicap, offers rehabilitation services and more.

299-4146. pasitosdeluz.org

PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/neuter clinic operating 48 weeks a year, primarily in Puerto Vallarta. Tax-deductible. peaceanimals.org Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta Raises funds for Los Mangos Public Library. Tax-deductible Ricardo Murrieta at 224-9966 Proyecto Pitillal, “Busca un Amigo” - Association created by underprivileged mothers of paralyzed children. Contact: 299-4495.

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club: Beautify and protecting the environment. vallartagardenclub.com PuRR Project - A no-kill cat shelter, a natural un-caged environment. www.purrproject.com Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza- Shelter for Children.

Tax-deductible. ccshf.ca Roma’s Kids - Educate the children of the Volcanes and surrounding area: Math, English and computer programs a priority.

100% goes to the kids. kids.romamexico.com The International Friendship Club (IFC) - Supports the Cleft Palate Surgery Program & families in need. 322-222-5466. ifcvallarta.com Toys for Tots Vallarta - Distributes toys and constructs playgrounds for Puerto Vallarta area during the Christmas holiday period. Jerry Lafferty 322 221 6156 or lourdes.bizarro@marriotthotels.com.

Vallarta Saludable (Healthy) – Healthy living through organics, stevias, cooking workshops, serums reversing dialysis and reality show. NAOTF.org Suzy Chaffee suzynativevoices@aol.com

vallartatribune.com

games

23

SUDOKU easy

Jan 15-21, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Challenge your brain! Sudoku is easy to play and the rules are simple. Fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain only one of each of the numbers 1 through 9.

medium

hard

Number Blocks

Word Search

What’s a number block you ask?

The numbers in each row add up to the totals to the right. The numbers in each column add up to the totals along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the totals to the right. Some of the numbers are missing. Try to fill in the missing numbers between 0 and 12.

EXPLORERS Can you find the hidden explorers? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards. Volcanoes BEERENBERG, COTOPAXI, EREBUS, ETNA, FUJI, HEKLA, HUALALAI, IZALCO, KILAUEA, KILIMANJARO, KRAKATAU, LLAIMA, MAKUSHIN, PINATUBO, POAS, POPOCATEPETL, SANTORINI, STROMBOLI, TAMBORA, VESUVIUS.

1. A tennis racket - A marionette - An orchestra 2. Babe Ruth - Hank Aaron - Marge Simpson 3. Line - Pie - Bar 4. Carson - Bench - Cash 5. Bird - Jordan - Magic 6. Pantyhose - Candidates - Track Stars 7. Pay - Princess - Cell 8. Cane - Brown - Powdered 9. Monkey - Box - Crescent 10. Blood - Piggy – Sperm

Commonym 13 Answers 1. all have strings 2. they have Homers 3. graphs 4. Johnnys 5. basketball players 6. they run 7. phones 8. sugars 9. wrenches 10. banks

What’s a commonym you ask? A commonyms is group of words that have a common trait in the three words/items listed. For example: thewords; A car - A tree - An elephant.. they all have trunks. These will make you think!

Wuzzle 14 Answers 1. Sixth Sense 2. To Sum it Up 3. Blanket 4. Strong Undertow 5. Back Issues 6. Stretching the Truth

Commonym

Wuzzles What’s a wuzzle you ask? A wuzzle is a saying/phrase that is made up of a display of words, in an interesting way.The object is to try to figure out the well-known saying, person, place, or thing that each wuzzle is meant to represent.