Categoría: 365 Fun Things To Do In Puerto Vallarta

When Will The Temp Get Cool Again?

Once September passes and businesses that had been closed for the month begin again to open, people start coming back to town. The snowbirds from the north flock back via flights or long road trips. Streets begin to fill, and the beach comes alive again with more music, vendors, tourists, locals, and part and fulltime residents. New menus are posted; events are planned; umbrellas, cushions and hammocks are mended; boats go back in the water after fresh paint and repairs; guitars and mandolins are re-stringed; children are back in school. It is autumn in Puerto Vallarta. Why does it still feel like summer?

We have heard the complaints more times than we can count from people who can’t recall year to year. “When will it cool off?” “When will it be normal again?” and our favorite…”The heat is sticking around a lot longer this year.” The answers to those questions and statements is that this is normal; we simply refuse to remember that fall in Puerto Vallarta doesn’t really begin until around Thanksgiving. It’s the humidity and dew point, not the heat, which affects us. The average daytime temperature in Puerto Vallarta fluctuates between 70° and 90° Fahrenheit, which is 21° and 32° Celsius. The lows at night drop to between 57° and 72° (F); 14° and 22° (C). Rainy season starts in June and lasts through October, when it tapers off by the end of the month.

Comfort levels, when it comes to humidity, which stays relatively level throughout the year, are based on dew point. Dew point is what determines whether perspiration evaporates from the skin. This is why you feel so hot. Not the heat, the humidity but…the humidity combined with the dew point.  The lower the dew point, the drier and cooler you’ll feel. Dew point doesn’t change quickly; it’s a gradual process. If you have a sultry day, you are guaranteed to have a sultry night’s sleep. Puerto Vallarta, as many of us are aware, is impacted by an extreme cyclic distinction from winter to summer and if anyone asks you why it’s still so hot, you can tell them it’s the dew point. Rain has a profound effect on the dew point, so if it’s raining or rain is expected in Puerto Vallarta, you can count on being very warm. We’ve heard that the least muggy day of the year is January 24^th on an average, whereas the most oppressive day usually falls around August 23^rd.

Que es cómo es.

Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

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There are many magical places to visit surrounding Puerto Vallarta that require only a short bus trip. Down the south coastline, Boca de Tomatlan is at the end of the city route. From there, one can catch a panga (boat) to Yelapa, Las Animas or Quimixto for a very reasonable fare. Day trips are perfect for those not interested in spending a night in the actual jungle.

Mismaloya, about 20 minutes south, is the original village where The Night of the Iguana landed back in the early ‘60s and has not been the same since. A onetime campground and trailer park, it is now the location of a huge luxury hotel. Palapas remain on the beach, most owned by families who have been there for decades.

In the above locations there are activities galore, including SCUBA diving, snorkeling, hiking and horse riding; jet skis, ziplines and parasailing. For many of us, simply lazing on the beach, soaking up sun and margaritas, will suffice.

Closer to town is the small settlement of El Nogalito, once a primitive village with typical languid dogs in the street, children kicking a ball around and fresh laundry hanging on trees and bushes. Not much has changed over the years in this small community nestled in the foothills approximately twenty minutes south of Puerto Vallarta. Over the years, as Puerto Vallarta has grown, so has El Nogalito and yet it has kept its quaintness and charm. El Nogalito means little oak and earned the name due to the small jungle oaks that spill down the Sierra Madres above and around the village. This is also a major hiking destination for those so inclined, with a wonderful array of flora and an abundance of fauna.

The jungle immediate to Puerto Vallarta consists of canopies of trees, palms, orchids, gigantic ferns and tropical flowers. Bright green iguanas and chameleons lounge on branches, appearing to be sleeping until they spot a tasty morsel, race up a tree limb and disappear with their prey. Black and blue jays, flocks of green parakeets and the colorful Cacique with its bright yellow wings flutter around squawking as if something is

happening, though likely nothing is. Floating dragonflies and butterflies add to the heavenly ambience. Waterfalls with refreshing natural swimming pools can be discovered at varying levels or one can settle on relaxing at lower cascades.

Mother Nature’s architecture exhibits trees growing in and out of granite cliffs, huge growth jutting out horizontally and plants sprouting out of others. These are sights that don’t change no matter the influx of commercialization.

Que es cómo es.

Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

The Gift of Life

Another recent cry has gone out for Type O blood in Puerto Vallarta. We hear these requests often and the need for all types is the same, though Type O is most common. If you have a rare blood type and qualify to give blood, you will be a treasure to the Puerto Vallarta Blood Bank.

There have been changes in the requirements that make it easier for donations to be made. Prior to this, there were heavy restrictions in Puerto Vallarta that were updated as recently as November 2017.

Presence of tattoos and piercings used to cause automatic rejection but that’s changed; not having been inked or poked for one year, with the results of zero resulting infections. Inoculations of any kind, antibiotics, and a list of medications that you’ll be asked about, with a waiting time of one month. Surgery in the past six months, for obvious reasons. Certain medications, such as anti-coagulants and anti-inflammatory meds will restrict donations but you can, in fact, stop taking them for 48 hours prior to donating.

Puerto Vallarta once restricted donors of a certain age, which made little sense for seniors in good health, many with spouses and other relatives, but this also has been relaxed and requires the giver to comply with a limited oral and physical exam for criterion. The same goes for women who are menstruating at the time of donation. There is an age limit for those under 18 years of age, even in excellent health.

You can’t drink alcohol within 48 hours; do ast for at least four hours but not more than eight .You must weigh at least 110 pounds (50 kilos). You cannot be ill.

Some in Puerto Vallarta have felt there’s been a foggy area regarding sex partners. It’s simple: not more than five in the past five years and optimum for those who have a consistent partner.

A donor card is issued once you’ve given blood in Puerto Vallarta and testing is extensive. Along with HIV, Hep C, all sexually transmitted diseases, and other blood ailments, you will also find out your Rh factor, blood type, and cross-compatibility. This is a great benefit and you should carry this card on you at all times.

There are two types of donors in Puerto Vallarta; those who give for a specific person; you must give the blood bank this information to assure the blood is delivered promptly and properly. The other is altruistic; this means you are giving to whomever needs it; you will also bank a supply of your own. The Blood bank in Puerto Vallarta is located at San Javier Hospital and open from 8 am – 3 pm, Monday through Saturday.

It’s interesting to note that Health Institutes have done extensive studies on blood donors. They conclude that people in this category display not simply altruism but kinship and egalitarian warm-glow.

Que es cómo es

Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

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Mexico is famous for chocolate, cinnamon (canela) and vanilla; most delicacies consist of one or all three and are often an element of liqueurs and tequilas. Normally we eschew desserts, either due to feeble dietary excuses or the lack of accommodation following a large meal. Puerto Vallarta, however, with such an abundance of fine dining, has changed our point of view in this respect, as well as our beltline.

Pan Tres Leches is popular at birthday parties, as well as a common dessert menu item. It’s similar to British rum cake or Italian tiramisu in that it’s soaked with its ingredients. Made with three types of milk; evaporated, condensed and thick cream, hence the name, it’s dense, heavy and we like it because it’s not overly sweet and usually served is small portions. Served with a topping of whipped cream and fresh fruit, it’s a perfect way to end a meal.

Flan, a dessert most of us would consider very traditional Mexican, is a basic food from both Eastern and Western Europe. Egg custard, dribbled with a bit of caramel sauce, which reveals itself when turned out of the pan, has a subtle sweetness. It’s not overpowering and often, as an extra bonus, may be flavored with coconut or coffee.

Arroz con leche (Rice pudding), popular during the Christmas holidays, is generally bursting with cinnamon flavor but other things are added with a little imagination to tweak the taste buds. Raisins, usually, but also lemon or orange rind or even the leaves of the lemon tree, which of course we would put aside, after licking clean.

Churros are a kid favorite and can be found with street vendors and as a menu item at Costco! Not light on calories, they are a simple pencil shaped pastry rolled in sugar and cinnamon after being deep fried. Best served hot, we love them while strolling the Malecón in Puerto Vallarta.

Is there something oxymoronic about fried ice cream? Though not originally Mexican, it’s caught on with the denizens of Puerto Vallarta, as well as tourists, who consider it part of the local culture. The crispy outside, delivered warm and solid is a real taste treat, once bitten in to the soft, scrumptious, freezing center.

Fruta Cristalizada won’t likely be on the postre menu but it is too yummy to not mention. Made with real fruit, often in their original shape, Mexican candied fruits last for weeks, believe it or not. In Puerto Vallarta, they are a special explosion of sweetness of which we have found dangerously addicting.

Que es cómo es.

Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.

Traditional festivities are celebrated in the month of December throughout Mexico and Puerto Vallarta is no exception, starting the month with the colorful Guadalupano celebrations, followed by Christmas and ending with a bang at New Year’s Eve.

Guadalupano pilgrimages (peregrinaciones) in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe are celebrated on Calle Juarez in downtown Puerto Vallarta leading to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. This nine day novena leading up to December 12 always holds a special place in the heart of Puerto Vallarta.

For centuries, the Virgin of Guadalupe, the Patron Saint of Mexico, has been revered by the people in Mexico. She appeared to Juan Diego on December 12, 1531 and her cloak to this day remains framed in the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

These nightly pilgrimages are colorful affairs with community groups and organizations marching in costumes and singing and dancing as they proceed to the church to pay homage to the Virgin. The Mariachi bands and other musical groups are out in full force.

Along the route of the procession, traditional Mexican food is sold such as pozole (traditional soup made from corn hominy), tamales, enchiladas, tacos, all kinds of cakes and sweet breads.

Each year, I like to go downtown one night and view the pilgrimages and eat some delicious tamales. Puerto Vallarta tamales are very different that what I ate in Texas, but I love the tamales of rajas de chile poblano (strips of poblano peppers).

From December 16 until Christmas Eve, there are a series of gatherings and parties called Posadas (from the word for inn). Family and friends and neighbors gather at each others’ homes to celebrate the season. Tamales and other traditional Mexican food is served and the houses are decorated with Noche Buenas (poinsettias) which originate from Mexico. A piñata is broken by the children. A Nativity Scene is displayed in the home or oftentimes in the front garden, but the baby Jesus is not in his crib (until Christmas morning). A wonderful drink called Rompope is served, it is very similar to eggnog.

New Year’s Eve in Puerto Vallarta is spectacular. The whole bay lights up at midnight with fireworks, it is truly a sight to behold. Any location with a view of the bay is a good place to be. Many people have parties in their homes and friends gather on the terrace or balcony to view the show. Or course the champagne is flowing. One word of advice, have arrangements to get home as there are NO TAXIS available that night after midnight. Or course, the taxi drivers are all enjoying the parties as well!!

And of course, the weather in December is glorious with warm days and pleasant evenings. The only “White Christmas” we will ever see are whitecaps on the ocean. Spending Christmastime at the beach is devine.

Feliz Navidad de Puerto Vallarta Mexico !!

Russell Falkner

Russell@timothyrealestategroup

The Gift of Life

Blood is always needed, since surgeries and accidents are daily life occurrences. In Puerto Vallarta you won’t likely be paid monetarily for giving blood but you will benefit in the case you are ever in the position of needing a transfusion yourself. If, in the following five years after you have donated blood, you will receive unit per unit up to five pints for the donations you make. Though we don’t like to think about these things, this could be very valuable if you are ever in an accident or requiring surgery where transfusions are necessary.

Another benefit, most valuable, will be a comprehensive examination of your blood, which includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis C, brucella, syphilis, chagas (parasites), hematocrit, Rh factor, blood type and cross-match compatibility. You can march back into the donation center after two weeks to pick up your official donor card and results. We can’t think of a much better return on a priceless contribution.

To donate, you must be over 18 years of age. Unless you are in robust health you cannot be over 65 and the doctor has the final say. There are some simple requirements, such as fasting a minimum of 4 hours but not more than 8; no drinking alcohol for 48 hours prior to making your gift of blood; you must weigh a minimum 50 kilos (110 pounds) and have the doctor’s overall approval that you are in good health.

There are also restrictions for those willing to help the less fortunate, and we are happy to report they’ve been relaxed in the past few years since our arrival in Puerto Vallarta. If you are donating blood, you cannot have received any vaccinations nor taken antibiotics or other specified medications in the past month. Those with tattoos over a year old can donate but the rules prohibit anyone who has had needle art within that period of time. This also includes piercings; the time limit is also one year. Pregnancy and breastfeeding also exclude the giver, and menstruating if one is not in excellent health. Anyone having had a recent transfusion and recent surgeries fall into this category, as well. It does get a bit personal when discussing sexual partners and disallows anyone with multiple partners in the past five years. Of course, anyone who has tested positive for HIV, Hepatitis, Syphilis, Dengue or Zika. If you’re currently suffering from even a mild illness, such as a cold or the flu, you are automatically eliminated; please, come back later when you are well.

The Hospital San Javier on the second floor is the location of the Blood Donation Center in Puerto Vallarta. They are open Monday – Friday from 8 am – 2 pm, 4 pm – 6 pm; and Saturdays from 8 am – 2 pm.

Don’t forget to bring photo ID, your passport being the best option.

Que es cómo es.

Timothy Real Estate Group is a locally-owned and operated real estate brokerage with a strategic location in the Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta in the Colonia Emiliano Zapata. Because the Puerto Vallarta area has varying neighborhood personalities, we practice localized real estate. We believe neighborhood knowledge is a top factor in solid sales, and we know our communities well.

We enable our clients to realize their vision for the future.  We understand and plan for their concerns and are dedicated to transforming those concerns to peace of mind and joy.

Our philosophy of transparency, integrity, and professionalism imbues our culture with a tangible sense of purpose and results in the length and depth of the quality relationships we enjoy.  We believe buying or selling a home is first and foremost about people. Of course we have the latest technology, marketing tools, statistics and research, but a successful real estate transaction really comes down to people. Connecting the right buyers to sellers or investors our professional agents structure solid transactions with successful solid outcomes.  We believe in collaboration by connecting people in ways that bring satisfaction and success.

When you combine extensive local knowledge and our long standing reputation for honesty and sound judgment, you have an unbeatable resource at your disposal.  You have Timothy Real Estate Group, a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate.