Categoría: Living in Mexico – We Have All The Lifestyle Information You Will Need.

  • Puerto Vallarta Living: Dating Life

    Dating in Puerto Vallarta

    In a recent survey, in which we asked what dating groups exist in Puerto Vallarta, we plenty of laughs, in return. It’s no secret; there are a lot of single people who have relocated to Puerto Vallarta. There’s also a lot of activity, even though a few want to scoff at the idea.

    Some responses were made in jest, yet made a lot of sense. The beach came in first as a place to look for a date. This might work for the younger set, but older folks seem to prefer bars. And a bar on the beach hit the top of the list. Pubs, bars, taverns, saloons… they’ve all been primary meeting places for many who boast silver and golden wedding anniversaries, so those are not outlandish ideas.

    We recommend joining groups, too. There are hiking tours, house tours, kayak and stand-up-paddle clubs. Tennis, anyone? Go hang out at the local courts and challenge someone to find a doubles partner. Yoga, the gym, dance classes. Our favorite place to meet people and as a bonus, learn the local language: Spanish classes.

    There are some apps, and they’re the same as everywhere… match.com, for example. You can narrow down your location and easily seek someone who has recently moved to Puerto Vallarta or is visiting.

    There’s a Facebook group with a set of criteria, which will make you feel like you’ve been interrogated, but you’ll also have more trust in anyone who decides to go through the same process. For this site, PV Singles, you must live in Puerto Vallarta at least one month out of the year. It is for single people only; there apparently have been some issues with this. The Facebook group made it clear that anyone who wants to join must be committed to looking for real connections, dating and love. Seems fair enough. You will fill out a complete and honest bio and there is a time limitation, so be prepared before you ask to be a member. You cannot reach out to other members of the group without the bio completed. The instructions clearly state that you can send each member one message and if they respond with interest you are welcome to continue communications. No spam or promotions are permitted. The admin will closely monitor this and is willing to discuss any events you might like to host. It doesn’t seem like a lot to ask to be kind and courteous, but we have found in the current culture, some people still need to be schooled in this. Lastly, they ask that you respect the privacy of others. Be sensitive to what you share in a group.
    There are many opportunities to meet people in Puerto Vallarta. Good luck and, above all, have fun.

    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 a constant leader in Puerto Vallarta real estate

  • Another Great Thing About Puerto Vallarta  

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    One great thing about living in Puerto Vallarta is the access to wonderful organic fresh fruits and vegetables all year round. Here is a easy salad using ingredients that are plentiful (and cheap) here in Puerto Vallarta.

    This is a really fun and delicious recipe for those days when you are super busy and want a healthy raw meal in 15 minutes or less. If you’re really hungry, eat the whole salad to yourself, or you can share it between 2 people.

    It’s easier than you might think to meet all of your nutritional needs with fresh fruits, vegetables and small amounts of nuts and seeds. Just in this salad alone, you get 24.8 grams of protein! The coolest part is after a big meal like this you feel energized, clear headed and ready to take on your next task.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 Ripe Organic Mango diced
    • 1 Ripe Organic Avocado diced
    • 1 Head of Broccoli finely sliced
    • 2 Dates sliced and chopped
    • Optional add-ons:
    • A pinch or two of Pink Himalayan Sea Salt
    • 1 Teaspoon of Balsamic
    • Fresh Ground pepper to taste

    Instructions: Chop your broccoli and mango and toss together in a mixing bowl. Pit your dates (you can add extra if you like) and slice them into small pieces. Halve your avocado, remove the pit and slice the avocado into small squares with your knife.

  • ¨Jardín Botánico Vallarta¨ Un beneficiario del próximo “House Hunters International” Evento de caridad en Puerto Vallarta.

    ¨Jardín Botánico Vallarta¨ Un beneficiario del próximo  “House Hunters International”  Evento de caridad en Puerto Vallarta.

    Timothy Real Estate Group será anfitrión del segundo  evento de caridad House HuntersInternational el 24 de Noviembre del 2014 en el nuevo Mantamar Beach Club en La Playa Los Muertos, beneficiando a cuatro organizaciones de caridad locales. Su meta es superar el primer evento, que recaudó más de $110,000 Pesos para las organizaciones locales. Becas Vallarta será otra de las organizaciones beneficiadas con el evento temático de este año, “La isla de Gilligan” será el tema del evento.

    JARDÍN BOTÁNICO VALLARTA

     

    En los nueve años desde que se fundó el Jardín Botánico Vallarta, ha crecido un hermoso “Secreto” para amantes de la naturaleza a una atracción turística superior y además se ha desarrollado un increíble recurso regional para los residentes de Vallarta, estudiantes locales y visitantes de todo el mundo.

    Sorprendentemente, este recurso del que muchos nos hemos beneficiado,  no recibe ningún financiamiento gubernamental, pero se ha mantenido y sigue avanzando su gran obra gracias a la dedicada labor de su personal y voluntarios, a través de la generosidad de los socios y donantes.

    Jardín Botánico Vallarta es un líder en iniciativas de conservación local, desde la protección de orquídeas y árboles en peligro de extinción hasta la protección de los hábitats de animales como la Guacamaya verde, uno de los loros más grandes y coloridos en América. Los voluntarios y personal comparten el mensaje con el público, especialmente con escolares locales, a través de un programa educativo con visitas complementarias que beneficia a miles de jóvenes cada año.

    El año pasado se anuncio la mas representativa adición al jardín  hasta ahora— el nuevo Conservatorio de orquídeas mexicanas Vallarta de 320 metros cuadrados — la inauguración está programada para el sábado, 13 de diciembre de 2014. El equipo de filmación de House Hunters International estaba emocionado por conocer un jardín botánico de clase mundial en Vallarta y quedaron encantados al filmar impresionantes  imágenes allí para el último episodio de PV. Por favor únanse a nosotros para apoyar una organización que hace de Vallarta un lugar aun mejor para vivir. Visite: www.vbgardens.org

     


     

    Para obtener más información sobre venta de entradas o para hacer una donación, póngase en contacto con:

    Timothy Real Estate Group

    inspired@timothyrealestategroup.com

    Office: (322) 223-5300

    USA/Canada Toll Free: 1-877-204-7730

    www.timothyrealestategroup.com

     

  • Puerto Vallarta: Reasons to Move Here

    Why Move to Puerto Vallarta?

    In a recent survey of expats in Mexico, we found an array of reasons for people’s decisions to relocate to Puerto Vallarta. In the past several months, the usual list of explanations for making this life-change has grown. We share these points of view not to raise debate but simply to shed a light on what motivates a person to leave roots and replant.

    The largest percentage in Puerto Vallarta seem to be retirees who look forward to stretching their fixed incomes; finding rent, food, transportation and entertainment much less expensive than the the states. Canadians are a part of this movement, as well though the Canadian dollar does not extend quite as far as the USD.

    Climate is a big factor. The inventory expands to no longer needing to shovel snow or drive in it, to easing arthritic joint pain. We have friends in Puerto Vallarta who never go to the beach, wear long sleeves and complicated hats, with skin white as lilies; they have no desire to tan but simply wish to not be buried in several layers of clothing for half of the year. Being able to keep a limited wardrobe, including cottons, linens, swimwear and flip-flops has it’s blessings, not to mention the ease on the clothing budget.

    Medical care and retirement communities that are springing up, not only in Puerto Vallarta but all over Mexico, have a huge draw for those who can no longer trust their medical coverage in the USA to take care of their needs.

    One of the most fascinating, and truly sad stories, of which there are more than one, is that of a young family who found themselves left with few choices. It seems the father was undocumented; deported for dubious reasons; unable to afford legal representations, which could have taken years to forge through, and his wife and children managed to follow him back to his mother country. In Puerto Vallarta, with its fine education system, the children are learning the language, everyone is getting settled and finding all the wonderful things to love about their paternal heritage.

    The political climate in the USA has turned many away from their homeland. These people exemplify the definition of ex-pat. They no longer can abide by actions of their own government and therefore have done an about-face and steadfastly stand by their position. This is not limited to North Americans; we have an influx of Brits in Puerto Vallarta, too, who have objected to Brexit and refuse to participate. Some claim they may return when and if conditions change but are just as happy to remain in Puerto Vallarta, where they manage to establish themselves with intentions of living happily ever after.

    Que es cómo es.Adam Garcia 1 112017


    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.

    Some of the websites I visited don’t have this drug, because it’s not approved everywhere, but https://www.nobledentaloffice.com/accutane.html has it.I have had nausea and vomiting at first, but I had to suffer for like a month before they went away. I am happy I did not stop taking it!

    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.

  • Vallarta Real Estate Inspired Living: Day of the Dead

    Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta

    Our first Day of the Dead experience in Puerto Vallarta was long before 2008, when UNESCO recognized the holiday on its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, those traditions that are passed down from generations. Día de los Muertos is an occasion of the reaffirmation of indigenous life and is celebrated by all Mexicans, regardless of religious or ethnic or origins. You will be fascinated by the ofrendas, magical altars covered in marigolds, emanating with their rich earthy scent, multitudes of candles, and intriguing offerings to the dead.

    While we walk along, admiring the ofrendas, moving from one display to another, most of us miss the meaning of this important day for the locals of Puerto Vallarta. The entire purpose of the Day of the Dead is about honoring those who have passed beyond this world and in doing do, asking their guidance for when it’s time for us to follow such a pathway. Ofrendas are found in various plazas, in private homes, on doorsteps, and in the cemeteries. The expectation is that loved ones will pop in for a visit and to lure them, friends and family place photographs of those who are gone, plus items they loved when they inhabited this world. It’s not unusual to find cigars, a pack of cigarettes, a favored lighter and matches, shot glasses with tequila, bottles of alcohol and cans of beer or soft drinks. Books, letters written in this realm, candy, food, perhaps a piece of clothing they wore. Chocolate, a cup of tea or coffee, fruit, tamales, lipstick, a pipe, jewelry; an unfinished crocheting project, embroidery scissors, thimbles, a pack of cards, dice, dominoes, musical instruments. It’s sad to see toys, well loved dolls, small trucks and cars, but we must remember the whole purpose is joy. Candles are everywhere, to help light the way back from the land of the dead to that of the living for this one night of the year.

    Recently in Puerto Vallarta, people have taken to having La Catrina painted on their faces. The Catrina, a symbol of death itself, is a reminder that no matter who you are, how much money or social status you have, we all end up dead; the great equalizer. You can paint your own face (there are great tutorials on youtube) or pay a small fee to have someone with talent do it for you. It’s fun and a safer way to costume yourself than wearing a mask and a welcomed new tradition in Old Town Puerto Vallarta.

    You won’t want to miss the procession along the malecón, a presentation of creative costumes, mariachi bands and minstrels, dancers, riders on horseback and decorated cars, marching down the street and winding in and out of revelers.

    The Day of the Dead grows every year in Puerto Vallarta to expand on the traditions and invite more celebrants!

    Que cómo es es.

  • Inpats or Expats in Puerto Vallarta, Which Are You?

    A new expression is making the rounds, including in Puerto Vallarta, describing people who choose to live in countries other than those where they were raised, educated and perhaps formerly employed. Inpat.

    Expat doesn’t always have a positive connotation and some object to being labeled as such. Many who have relocated to Puerto Vallarta would like to call themselves locals but a local is someone born in a locale. These people can more commonly be referred to as residents to oblige the designation with a more positive tag.

    Our quintessential likeness of an expat comes from the novel Under the Volcano, a story set in Mexico. Geoffrey Firmin is an alcoholic British consul in the fictional Mexican town of Quauhnahuac, a somewhat farfetched stand-in for Cuernavaca. As often happens with narrative bound expats, Geoffrey allows the reflection of “vertiginous picture of self-destruction, seen through the eyes of a man still lucid enough to report to us all the harrowing particulars.” [TIME Modern Library] This is, with few exceptions, not how most expats picture themselves. They’d like to portray, or think they do, a figure of gentility and decorum, mannerly representatives of their mother country. The implication of Inpat intends to replace the image of the gin-soaked tourist who decided to stay.

    Without a return ticket and full intentions to absorb local culture and traditions, Inpats are not refugees. The typical Inpat is someone who is looking for small and large changes in their lifestyles, love-lives, careers and daily (sometimes nightly) habits. Inpats often speak the language of the country they have chosen, whether remedial or expert. Without that, they are usually seen to begin language lessons immediately upon arrival. Economies can make a difference but most retired Inpats are intentionally moving to a place where retirement money can go further than in their homeland.

    This doesn’t dismiss the fact that some expats remain just that: expats. They prefer to live in a bubble and frequent bars where they can speak English; complain when their neighbors don’t act according to expectations; and refuse to learn the language.

    In Puerto Vallarta, there is a shift in those who want to live in Mexico because it is Mexican. These Inpats find the food, customs, festivities, ceremonies, weather and often the laws to be to their liking. They admire the lifestyle, being relaxed and slower-paced than from where they came. Inpats are not necessarily coming from as they are going to.

    Que es cómo es.


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  • Vallarta Sports Teams?

    We normally take the pup for long walks to get our exercise but when we want to shed a few post-holiday pounds or strengthen muscles, we head to the stadium.

    Puerto Vallarta has long been a draw for national and international competitions, from volleyball to bike riding, and expansion and notoriety promises much more to come. Though charrería, Mexican rodeo, is the official sport of Mexico, Vallartenses are involved in many other sports, as well.

    Baseball was once a main attraction in Puerto Vallarta. Foreigners who worked for the plantation owners, mainly Montgomery Company, formed teams and leagues from one end of the bay to the other. In 1926, nearly a hundred years ago, the first baseball team began to defend their territory. They called themselves The Tigers (Los Tigres) and games took place in an empty lot on the south side of the river, close to Los Muertos beach where Hotel Eloisa stands today. These were important events in Puerto Vallarta as tournaments were played with teams from other cities like Mazatlán, followed by fancy dances that were organized by groups of young women.

    A women’s basketball team was also very popular, founded in 1937, organized by a local boys’ school professor, Antonio Gil. They called themselves La Muñeca, The Doll, a team name that by today’s standards would most likely not be accepted. Organized sports for youth have always been very important to Puerto Vallarta.

    Since the mid-sixties, gyms have sprouted up all over town and at one time body building was so popular here that a local man became internationally known. His name was Alberto Robles Viorato, locally known as Macumba and nationally as Mister México.

    Canto del Sol Plaza Vallarta is well known for turning out competitive tennis competitors and has hosted tournaments and awards ceremonies throughout the decades.

    Golfers love Puerto Vallarta for her variety of courses, designed by luminaries such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Ernie Els, Robert Trent Jones II and Tom Fazio. The IV International CANAMEX Flamingos Riviera Nayarit Cup 2016 was recently held in Puerto Vallarta.

    Though seldom mentioned, Alfonso Díaz Santos organized the most beloved sport (other than charrería) in Puerto Vallarta… soccer. In 1980, the Municipal Sports Stadium that we know and love today was built by Augustin Flores Contreras, who would likely be forgotten if not for this

    grand facility bearing his name. A great benefactor of Puerto Vallarta, he was responsible for the construction of several schools and many structures devoted to children, their welfare and education. The stadium has been the destination for concerts, exhibitions and events, bridging the centuries.

    As we round the oval track and observe the ocean to the west, the growing village around us, and the hills to the east, we give thanks to the contributions made by those aware of the vitality of Puerto Vallarta and her inhabitants.

    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.

  • Third House Hunters International episode filmed in Puerto Vallarta

    Third House Hunters International episode filmed in Puerto Vallarta

    It’s a wrap…again! Timothy Real Estate Group just finished filming yet another episode this past August for one of the top rated television shows for Home & Garden Television (HGTV). This marked the third time in only 18 months the popular international real estate show has included Puerto Vallarta in their line up of exotic destinations. Up until then, this tropical resort city along Mexico’s Pacific coastline had never been featured on House Hunters International.

    What’s so special about Puerto Vallarta (as the locals call it) that keeps them coming back over and over again? “I think it’s the same reason why tourists come back time and time again…this town is very warm, charming and beautiful” said Taniel Chemsian, the real estate agent who is featured in all three episodes. “There is so much out there to see and explore, but when someone has a great experience somewhere, they tend to want to go back and experience it again. It’s just like going to a restaurant and having the most amazing meal and impeccable service. You look forward to dining there again and experience the same pleasure. Vallarta has a unique combination of culture, tropical climate and natural beauty that makes it truly special and visitors can’t get enough of it.”

    Timothy Real Estate Group’s trek into TV land started the end of summer of 2011 when discussions first opened up with regards to filming for HGTV. Soon after, the first episode was filmed in January of 2012, followed by the second taping that following November. Filming two episodes in the same city in the same calendar year is a rarity for a show like House Hunters International. The feedback from those episodes has been so encouraging and positive that it didn’t take long before Carl Timothy (owner of Timothy Real Estate Group) and Taniel Chemsian were asked to film a third episode. “We were flattered and humbled by the wonderful comments from our clients and friends, not to mention the amount of positive coverage in social media. When the producers asked us to do a third episode, we were delighted. This gave us another opportunity to promote our community, local businesses and of course our real estate market” added Taniel.

    In the first two episodes the buyers are seen strolling through the Malecon (boardwalk in downtown), sampling tequila in El Centro, sipping fine wine at Cafés Des Artistes, going whale watching, relaxing in the Marina Vallarta and shopping in one of the most popular galleries in the city, Galeria Dante in the Romantic Zone. The buyers looked at properties in the neighborhoods of Amapas, Emiliano Zapata, Marina Vallarta and Conchas Chinas. One has to wonder, will the viewers see anything new the third time around? “Absolutely” said Carl Timothy, “Taniel and I discussed this at great length as we wanted to venture to completely different sections of the city than the previous two shows. We explored and filmed different neighborhoods and vistas this time around. It was also important for us to support the local businesses and hard working individuals that give back to the community, as they are a part of the Puerto Vallarta culture and energy surrounding it. So, we ventured into some of these hidden communities and filmed with the wonderful locals. Everyone was extremely supportive and accommodating and I feel this will be reflected in the new episode.”

    Giving back to the community is exactly what Timothy Real Estate Group and their network of local supporters and businesses did last May when they threw a successful charity fundraiser event for the premiere of episode 1 at Daiquiri Dick’s on Los Muertos Beach. Almost 400 people attended in what was called The Event Of The Year, as the premiere party raised around $117,000 Pesos for three local charities. An Old Hollywood theme, which included Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin and Gaucho Marks impersonators, marked the big party event. Close to 40 prizes were generously donated by local businesses and were raffled off throughout the night. “It was an incredible event. We didn’t anticipate that kind of a turnout. We were thinking that maybe 100 people might show up, not close to 400! Our group of supporters, friends and the entire Timothy staff came together in the name of giving and made it successful…and we’re looking forward to putting together another similar charity event at the next premiere” said Taniel.

    Carl added, “It’s been an incredible journey and opportunity for us to be able to show the world the true beauty that is Puerto Vallarta and that of it’s genuine people. We’re grateful and fortunate to have supportive friends that are alongside us in wanting to make a positive impact in the community. We’re happy everyone is enjoying the ride as much as we are and look forward to working together with our partners and friends for episode four…”

    Taniel: “…in 3D!” (wink, wink)

  • ACCORDING TO GOLF DIGEST, THE BEST OF THE BEST OF PUERTO VALLARTA GOLF

    BEST SEASIDE COURSE

    The Pacifico Golf Course in Punta Mita is outstanding mainly because it has eight holes that are adjacent to or facing the ocean. But its inland holes, which feature views of the Sierra Madre Mountains, will resonate with fans of Jack Nicklaus’ challenging designs.

    BEST JUNGLE COURSE

    The Weiskopf Course at Vista Vallarta looks like it was hacked from the jungle by machete—a whole lot of them. It’s similar to the Nicklaus Course on the same property, but Weiskopf’s design gets the nod because its manageable green complexes make it more fun to play.

    BEST VALUE

    Litibu Golf Club, a Greg Norman creation that transitions from a links course to a jungle layout, can be played for a comparatively low green fee of $100.

    BEST WILDLIFE

    A crocodile sanctuary is just upriver from the Marina Vallarta Golf Club, and no one told the crocs they couldn’t visit the golf course. How bad do you want that golf ball you just dunked?

    BEST HOLES

    The Tail of the Whale at Pacifico is one of the most memorable holes in the world, but if you like something a little more traditional, not to be overlooked is the 571-yard 18th at Punta Mita’s Bahia course. It plays down to a spot near the El Faro surf break. Take some guilty pleasure in watching surfers eat it.

    BEST THRILL

    The new Greg Norman course at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta is accessed via a one-lane golf-cart suspension bridge high over the Ameca River. Note: Only nine holes are open because of damage from Hurricane Patricia in the fall.

    BEST CHALLENGE

    The 621-yard 18th at El Tigre Golf & Country Club leaves almost no margin for error down the left side, thanks to a massive water hazard.

    BEST PERK

    Flamingos Golf Club offers complimentary transportation back to main Puerto Vallarta hotels.

  • Roma: A Movie That Cant Be Missed In Vallarta

    Roma: We don’t often write movie reviews for this blog but are so inspired by the recent Mexican film Roma, for many reasons. We were far into the film, a scene at the ocean in Veracruz, before we astonishingly realized this movie was shot in black and white. There is so much color in the culture, the people, and the language that hues and tones burst out of each scene. It’s a testament to the colors of Mexico, which has drawn many of us here, to brighten our lives and that of others.

    Roma, which is love in Spanish spelled backwards, is a movie packed with everyday Mexican life. Though is takes place in 1971, there is much that has not changed and life of many generations continues to thrive. Roma is a section of the Cuauhtémoc borough of Mexico City. which during the era it is set, the early 70’s, was an upper to middle class vicinity. It was beset with decline over the years, and more recently taken over by hipsters.

    Alfonso Cuarón wrote, directed and took over the cinematography of Roma and is known for a variety of successes, including the highly acclaimed Gravity; his first major success. Other projects include Y Tu Mamá También; Children of Men; and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Bent on authenticity for Roma, Cuarón gathered furniture from his family’s assorted homes throughout Mexico; most of the movie is filmed on location, relying on few sets. Anyone who’s been in a furniture store in Puerto Vallarta will see the complete accuracy of the upper level establishment where Cleo, the protagonist, goes with her matron (employer) to buy a crib for her unborn baby. There are no details untouched by authenticity of the era.

    Vendors will be recognizable by anyone living in Puerto Vallarta; their street calls remain the same over many decades. Unless you are Mexican or have lived in the country for long enough to recognize him, the alfiliador who appears in Roma will hold little significance but it is a major turning point in the film. As Cleo sits mourning in her humble quarters, Adela, another maid, calls out to Cleo the presence of the afilador, the knife sharpener, warning his arrival with his familiar piccolo. In Mexican lore, the afilador carries portent, and is commonly used to scare little children into behaving. Adela is letting Cleo know it’s time to pull it together and get on with life.

    There are subtleties throughout. Airplanes flying overhead in many scenes, as well as the opening and closing, represent the constancy of air travel above Mexico City, a major hub, and they also indicate a vast world outside this small one encompassed in a massive city.

    The ocean scenes will have an effect on those of us in Puerto Vallarta, and Alfonso Cuarón does nothing to lessen the deafening roar. There is no doubt to the attraction, the pleasure, and the imminent danger.

    We struggled with some of the language without knowing certain characters were speaking Mixtec, an indigenous idiom, but the film is subtitled. Roma is currently available on Netflix.

    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