What is easily observable in general in the port and surroundings is not very promising. The flow of tourism has diminished and most businesses’ sales are down; not to mention the real estate market, which up to now, based on last year’s expectations, has been the hardest hit.
Life goes on and the city’s growth continues, in fact, despite the financial crisis we see new constructions at the very core of the city, nonetheless, intimately, the mood among most people is of uncertainty, although trying to display optimism and confidence, or at least a face that does not denote genuine worry before the immediate future… and I think this is one of the key points making the present situation difficult to many, as most businesses in Puerto Vallarta (there have been many) were conceived aiming at an almost immediate investment return.
The touristic history of our port clearly indicates that a great number of businesses dedicated to provide services complementary to lodging as well as entertainment, were created taking into account the great demand for these services a few years ago ―a demand that is presently being affected and is expected to worsen― promised an almost immediate investment return. Although a few succeeded, it was not so for most. The time to put our strength and entrepreneurial maturity to the test has arrived; during and after this crisis, if we face reality with courage and responsibility, focused on doing what is right (which is not always what appears to suit us best). we, Puerto Vallarta and its people, can make the best from this temporary stage, to solidly grow. I say this is a genuine opportunity to readjust our priorities, as an international tourism destination should.
As I said earlier… life goes on, and by now we have already published 26 weekly editions of our printed magazine PV Mirror City Paper, and I can partake with you, with sound pride, it has, thank God, created a social phenomenon not seen in our city for over twenty years. Our readers’ demand for our printed media is impressing, in fact, there are testimonials to many people being upset and take it on the distribution centers, blaming them for not keeping a copy for them! All of us who collaborate in PVMirror are most grateful to God for this blessing and for allowing us to arrive at this stage during troubled times. Of course we are also thankful to our sponsors and our loyal readers; without them this project could not exist. We recognize the excellent duty of Allyna our editor, as well as the impeccable collaboration of all who contribute every week with their well-positioned information columns. Thank you so very much.
At the beginning of the month I had the opportunity to visit Octavio and his wife at their restaurant “La Esquina de los Caprichos”; as always, it was a succulent and very pleasurable experience. This time we were introduced to a new member of their staff (I apologize for not remembering his name), who seems to tie in perfectly with the personality of the place and its always kind, hard-working owners. I can never tire from dining and highly recommending this magnificent site of “pinchos” and “tapas” called “La Esquina de los Caprichos”, located on Calle Miramar #402, corner of Iturbide street. For reservations call: 222-0911, and please remember that only cash is accepted as payment.
During a nutritious breakfast at Federico León de la Vega, Luli, Lupita and Victoria’s Estudio-Café, located in Nuevo Vallarta Marina waterfront near Dolphin Adventure, I had the pleasure of leisurely chatting with Anthony Garzino, whom I call “El Hombre de Oro” (The Golden Man), who among other topics, shared with me some basic tips buyers of precious gems and jewelry practice in order to be sure they are acquiring genuine pieces. I am processing this wealth of information to share with you in future editions. Anthony is what we call in Mexico “quite a character”, since besides being an expert jeweler and artisan, he also was a king crab fisherman in Alaska with a history of lots of dramatic experiences also to be shared in future issues. What most impresses me from Anthony is his authenticity, huge heart, his genuine passion for what he does and his love for Vallarta. If you wish to acquire a unique piece of jewelry or one of your jewels needs repair, do not miss the chance to visit and get to know this “Gold Man”. His workshop is located on Francisca Rodríguez # 152, in the heart of the Romantic Zone. Monday to Friday It opens from 11am to 6pm, and his phone number is: 225-7090, Cell.: 322 152-0566, you can also contact him through: tgarzino@yahoo.com Please visit his website: www.anthonygarzino.com
In following with a European tradition, Chefs Bernhard Güth & Ulf Henriksson, owners of restaurants Trio & Vitea, presented us with their Asparagus Season. Do not let go of this occasion; although I will be giving you full details in a future review, I can tell you that the culinary moment was even more exquisite than the last time I visited the place some years back. Trio is as impeccable as it is cozy. The Vallartense architecture details give the place a touch of tropical luxury not found elsewhere, and the food… mmhhhhh. Precisely that night our gourmet adventure started with a mmmhhhhh!... continuing with a uuummmmmhhhh, mmhhh, and ending with a WOW oummmhhhhh!, auhmmmmhhh!. Every peso paid at Restaurante Trio is worth three times its value!. Restaurante Trio is located on Calle Guerrero # 264, Centro. Phone: 222-2196, and their Email: trio@triopv.com
And lastly please know that on Saturday, April 11th at 5:30pm, architect Guadalupe Dipp, after a long and efficient job on the site where the breeze has us imagining we are cruising on a sailboat, will officially inaugurate the first stage of her most recent multi-phased hospitality project called “Arroyos Verdes”. No such thing existed in the Bay of Banderas before; she has arrived at establishing and implementing an innovative lodging concept consisting of small one, two and three-bedroom houses of contemporary countryside design, surrounded by colorful and art-filled gardens. All those who want to be in harmony with nature, in contact with greenery, will be able to rent the casitas by the day, week or month! I have visited the place twice and I can assure you, not risking to be mistaken, getting to know the place is really worth it… you have never seen anything like it in the region, well, just getting to know architect Gudalupe Dipp is a happening in itself! Arroyos Verdes is located on Camino Viejo al Valle # 1099 Oriente, Bucerias, Nayarit. E-mail: info@arroyosverdes.com To get there: Coming from Puerto Vallarta, turn right at the next stop light after the one at the Decameron Hotel. See you there. Email to a friend
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“True Transformation of Diffusion – June 2003”