mexi-go! magazine may 2012

REAL ESTATE | LIVING | TRAVEL | RETIREMENT ISSUE 3 VOL 2 MAY 2012

WWW.MEXI-GO.CA

THE CURSE OF THE GUACHIMONTONES

NEW MATH: RETIRING IN MEXICO

BAJA WINES: SANTO TOMAS IN GUADALUPE VALLEY

GOLDCORP STRIKES IT RICH IN MEXICO

THE CURSE OF THE GUACHIMONTONES

NEW MATH: RETIRING IN MEXICO

BAJA WINES: SANTO TOMAS IN GUADALUPE VALLEY

GOLDCORP STRIKES IT RICH IN MEXICO

NOW DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

FOUR TIMES A YEAR

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4 Mexi-Go! April 2012

Editor-in-Chief MadelineMilne

Editor MoraleaMilne

CREATIVE

ArtDirector MadelineMilne

BradHopwood

Contributors JoelHansen

MadelineMilne

LindyLiang

LindaNeil

RosannaAscencio

JimDonahoe

JohnGlabb

Photography BarbNettleton

JoelHansen

MadelineMilne

Distribution MaxwellHansen-Milne

ADVERTISINGANDSALES

GarthWatson|[email protected]

GabrielJones|[email protected]

GregLuff|[email protected]

SandraReed|Yucatan&[email protected]

ValeskaGuerrero|PuertoVallarta

[email protected]

JoelHansen|[email protected]

MARKETINGANDPR

VeronicaRivas [email protected]

[email protected]

www.facebook.com/mexi-goproperties

www.twitter.com/mexigoproperty

www.twitter.com/mexigomag

www.mexi-go.ca

Mexi-Go!ispublishedbyMexi-GoPropertiesInc.Copyright(2012)

MADELINE MILNEEditor-in-Chief, Art DirectorMadeline’sexpertisein

realestatemarketingand

passionforlifeinMexicois

thefoundationthatMexi-Go!

isbuilton.Livingfulltimein

Mexicobringsexperienceand

reallifeskillstothecreative

process.Whenshe’snot

exploringnewpartsofMexico,

youcanfindMadelineunder

herpalapa,poolside,witha

goodbookandherposseof

chihuahuas.Shedividesher

timebetweenVancouver,BC

andMexico.

MORALEA MILNEEditorMoralealivesinMetchosin

BCwheresheisanelected

councillor,respectedvolunteer

forlocalenvironmentalgroups

andfrequentcontributorto

thelocalpaper.Whentherain

andwindgettobetoomuch,

MoraleaheadstoMexico,

whereshefindspleasurein

theuniquefloraandfauna,the

beachesandthehighlandsand

inthewarmthandcomfortof

theMexicanculture,foodand

people.

ROSSANA ASCENCIOFood ContributorRossanahasovertenyears

ofexperiencepromotingand

activelysharingtheculinary

traditionsofMexico.Shehas

ownedanaward-winning

restaurant,deliversworkshops,

conferences,andcooking

classes,isaregulargueston

radioandTVshows,andshe

continuestoconquerpalates

withhercompany,Encanto

Culinaryservices.Whatshe

enjoysthemostissharingthe

culturalandculinarywealthof

hernativecountry,Mexico.

LINDY LIANGContributorLindyLaingistheownerof

“ChacalaHostelandSurfShop”.

Afterlivingaroundtheworld,

includingAustralia,California,

EuropeandCanada,her

“scouring”finallypaidoffwhen

shefoundher“nirvana”inthe

beautiful,friendlylaidbackbeach

villagecalledChacalaintheheart

ofNayarit.Shespendsthewhole

yearthereandespeciallylovesthe

summersnotedfortheamazing

sunsetsandbathwaterwarm

oceantemperatures.

Mexi Go!www.mexi-go.ca

JOHN GLABBContributor JohnGlaabisVicePresident

ofInternationalMarketingat

Mexico’soldesttitleandescrow

company,TheSettlement

Company®.Afoundingmember

ofAMPILosCabosandDirector

EmeritusofAMPILaPaz,heisa

CertifiedInternationalProperty

Specialistandahugesupporter

oftheAMPIeffortstoeducate

andregulatetherealestate

industryinMexico.

BARB NETTLETONPhotographerRetiredfromphysiotherapy,

Barbhasbeenanactive

volunteerovertheyearsat

HarbourfrontInternational

FestivalofAuthors,PEN

Canada,andWritersTrust,in

herhometownofToronto.She

ismarriedtoFrank,hasahorse

namedFlash(whoforthelast

elevenyearsdoesveryspecial

workteachingat-riskyouthhow

toride),twogrown-upboys,a

dogandacat.Barbaracomes

backtoMexicoeveryyear,

camerainhand!

www.mexi-go.ca 5

DISCOVER MEXICOAffordable Luxury Homes | Tropical Gardens

Perfect Climate | Romantic Village Charm

Come Join 10,000 Canadians Who Make Ajijic Their Home

TRUDIE NELSON - YOUR CANADIAN REALTOR

[email protected] www.eagerrealty.com

Upcoming Events!AcrossMexicothereareexcitingcultural,travel,foodandinvestmenteventsthatareworthavisit.Herearesomeofourtoppicks!

WHALE SHARK FESTIVALJUNE 21-24, 2012CelebratingthebeautyandcultureofIslaMujeres,Mexico,andchampioningtheneedtopreserveafragilemarineecosystem,thefifthAnnualWhaleSharkFestivalisacommunityextravaganzathat

showcasestheachievements,thetraditionsandtheenvironmentalsplendorofIslaMujeres.Aonceinalifetimeexperiencetoswimwiththeworldslargestfish.www.whalesharkfest.com

FIESTAS DE LA VENDIMIA AUGUST 2-19,2012The22ndAnnualWinefestivaltakesplaceinEnsenada,BajaFornearlythreeweekseveryAugust,wineaficionadoswillattendwinetastings,savorgourmetmealsandattendworkshopsandconcerts.Thetwo

centurylongwinetraditionoftheregionisthefocusofthisevent.TheGuadalupeValleyisjustoneofsevenvalleysbetweenEnsenadaandTecatethatarededicatedtothecultivationofgrapes.Thevalleysproduce90%ofallMexicanwines.It’satimeforcelebrationand…winetasting!

MEXI-GO! TRAVEL & TRADE EXPO | SEPTEMBER 7-8, 2012Co-producedwithMexicoTourismBoardandProMexico,thiseventwillbringthebestofMexicotoCanadainatwo-dayeventattheVancouverConventionCentre.Aperfectopportunitytolearnmoreabout

traveldestinations,businessopportunities,realestate,culture,foodandmusic.Moreinformationanddetailsatwww.mexi-goexpo.ca

CERVANTINO INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OCTOBER 3-21, 2012OftenclaimedasthemostimportantculturaleventinMexico,theCervantinoInternationalFestivalinGuanajuatofeaturesavant-garde

artisticperformancesandexhibitionsoffine,classicandmodernart.Countriesfromaroundtheworldarerepresented,withovertwothousandnationalandinternationalartists.Youwillfindclassicalmusicandelectronicrhythms,alongwithfolkloricandcontemporarydance,aswellasplaysandmultimediashows.Cinema,visualarts,workshopsandactivitiesforthekidscanalsobeenjoyedthroughoutthefestival.www.guanajuato.travel/Cervantino


RETIREMENT

TRAVEL

LIVING

REAL ESTATE

12 9

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9The GuachimontonesMore than just fun to say!Notknownforitspyramids,Jaliscoactuallyhasanimpressivenumberofarcheologicalsitesincludingthe3500yearoldGuachimontonesPyramids.

12New Math: Retiring in MexicoFlipthingsaroundandyoumightfindretirementinMexicoismoreaffordablethanyouthought.

14Driving in MexicoTherearegoodroadsandtherearebadroadsinMexicoeitherwaytheyoftenhavetopessowatchout!

16Baja Wines: Santo Tomas in Guadalupe ValleyTheoldestwineryinNorthernBajaoffersexcellentwinesandcharmingB&Bexperience.

18Architect in Nature: Unique in ChacalaJoseEnriquedelVallecombinesbothjungleandseainhisChacalahotel.

20Goldcorp Strikes it Rich in MexicoThelargestminingcompanyinMexicoisCanadian.Enoughsaid.

22Tulum: Heaven on EarthPerfectbeaches,quaintlittletown,ancientMayaruins.Perfectplacetorelax,exploreandenjoyMexico.


Hola!Canyoubelieveit’salreadyJune?Wheredidthespringgo?HereinMexicotheweatheriswellonitswaytoscorchinghotandforthoseofusonthecoastthehumidityfeelslikeathickblanket.MyfamilyhasheadedawayfromthebeachtothehighlandsoutsideofGuadalajaratoenjoyacoolerclimatewithpracticallynohumidity.It’smuchbetterformyhair!

ForthoseyoubeginningtoplanyourholidaysfornextwinterthereissomuchgoingoninMexicowiththeMundoMayacelebrations,ayearlongcelebrationoftheMayanculture.TheYucatanandRivieraMayaareaswillbeveryexcitingthisfallandwinter!DidyouknowCancunisthenumberonedestinationforCanadianscomingtoMexico?Weexpectthosecrowdtobeevenhigherthisyearaspeoplecometoseetheamazingpyramids,cenotesandartifactsinthearea.Itistrulyanamazingpartoftheworldthathassomuchtooffereveryone,fromcouplesseekingsomeromance,tofamiliesandadventurers.

ThisSeptemberwewillbeinVancouver,BChostingtheMexi-Go!Travel&TradeExpoduringtheMexicoFestevents.IfyouareintheareaonSeptember7thand8thcomebytheVancouverConventionCentreforavisit.Inadditiontogreatfoodandculturalevents,wewillhaveprizes,vacationdeals,realestateseminarsandmuchmore.Visitwww.mexi-goexpo.comformoredetails.

SubscriptionsfortheMexi-Go!MagazinearenowavailableforanyonewithaCanadianaddress.Afullyearisjust$19.95plusshippingandtaxes.Subscribeandpayonlineatwww.mexi-go.ca.Iftheonlinemagazineisthebestoptionforyou,besuretosignupforourmonthlyversionbyregisteringatwww.mexi-go.ca

Asalways,welovetohearyourthoughts,commentsandstoryideas.Pleasesendusanemailatmagazine@mexi-go.caandwe’llgetbacktoyourightaway.

CONTACT US!

Doyouhavecomments?Astorytoshare?HaveyoumadethemovetoMexicoandwanttoletusknowhowgreatitsbeen?Shareyourwisdomwithus!Byallmeans-sendusanemail-we’dlovetohearfromyou!

[email protected]

facebook.com/MexiGoMagazinetwitter.com/MexiGoMag

Safe travels,[email protected]

SUBSCRIBETODAYLovethefeelofpaperinyourhands?Theeaseofreadingamagazineonyourdeck?ThensubscribetoMexi-Go!Magazinetodayandenjoytherealthing!

$19.95/4issueswww.mexi-go.ca

COMINGSOON!ThisJunewewillrelaunchourrealestatelistingandrentalssitewithinformationontravel,realestateandlivinginMexico.Staytuned!

www.mexi-go.ca

JoinusinVancouverthisfallfora2dayexpothatbringsyouinformationonMexicofortravel,forretirementandforinvestment.

Moreinformationat:www.mexi-goexpo.com

The curse of Los GuachimontonesPhotosandarticlebyJoelHansen

TheLosGuachimontones(wha-tchi-mon-tones)andIhaveabitofacheckeredpast.IhaveattemptedtovisitthemonatleastahalfdozenotheroccasionsbeforeIfinallyfoundsuccess.SometimeswhileinGuadalajaraforbusinessIwouldsimplyrunoutoftimetoseethem.OnceItriedtoseethemonlytohavethetransmissiononmyrelativelynewandreliablecarbreakdown.ThenduringSemanaSanta,boundanddetermined,IleftPuertoVallartawithmorethentwelvehourstomakethefour-hourjourney,onlytoarriveatthegateswellpastclosingandnoamountofpleadingorofferingof“donations”wasgoingtogetmepastthegatekeepers.ThisismoreastatementonthecrazinessofchoosingtodriveanywhereinMexicoduringholyweekthenitisofthepoliciesoftheUNESCOheritagesite,butnonethelessIfeltlikemyattemptstovisitLosGuachimontoneswerebeingthwartedbypowersbeyondmycontrol.


Nottobedenied,risingearlyandrousingmyten-year-oldsonandamateurarchaeologist,weheadednorthfromAjijictowardsGuadalajara,thenwesttothelakefronttown

ofTeuchitlán,whichwasinthemidstofafiestajudgingbyallthestreamersandthecarnivalridesintheplaza.TheLosGuachimontonessitsaboutakilometeroutsideofthetownplaza.Aswedroveuptotheparkinglotwepassedatourbusstrugglingtomakeitswaydownthecurving,narrowroad.Iwasconcernedaboutthesitebeingoverflowingwithvisitorsbutknewtherewashopethatwewouldfinallyseethese3500yearoldpyramids.

Wefoundafewcarsinthelot,andafterpurchasingabottleofwaterforthetwentyminutehiketothesite,westartedonourway.AsweclimbedupthepavedpathwemetacouplefromGuadalajarastrugglingtoridetheirbicycleswhilesimultaneouslytryingtoenjoyacanofEstrellaandtakeaphotoofthemselvesoverlookingthepanoramicview.MysonofferedtosnapthepictureforthemandtheywerehappytotellusthatthiswastheirtenthvisittoLos

Guachimontones,andtheyoftencomejusttohaveapicnicamongtheruins.

LeavingthehappycouplewemadeourwaytothefirstsmallpyramidwhichisunprepossessingandlittlemorethanaburialmoundandIcouldseethatMaxwasdisappointed.Howeverthatquicklychangedwhenwecaughtourfirstglimpseofthesixty-footmainpyramidandtherestofthe“town”.EnteringthesitewecametotheballfieldthatatonetimewasthelargestinMesoamericaat110metersinlength.Thegame,similartotheAztecgameofUllamaliztli,wasplayedwithaheavyroundstonecoveredinnaturalrubberwhichplayerscouldhitwiththeirhips.AllthemaleskeletonsfoundattheTeuchitlánsitehavebrokenhips.Thegamewasplayedfromsunuptosundownandoftenusedasawaytosettlepoliticaldisputes.Attheendoftheday,thecaptainofthewinningteamwouldreceivethegreathonoroflosinghislifeasasacrificialoffering.

Leavingthecourtwiththethoughtthatmaybesecondbestwasok,wecaughtsightofthemainpyramid.

Wewalkedinaclock-wisemotionaroundthemainpyramidanddowntheboulevards,untilwehadcircledtheentiresite.IbegantonoticeMaxpushingandproddingonvariousrocks,soIaskedwhathewasdoing.“Lookingforhiddenpassagewaysobviously”washissarcasticanswer,indicatingthatIwasanidiotfornotthinkingofitfirst.

TheLosGuachimontonessitewasonlyreallydiscoveredbythearchaeologycommunityrecentlyandthestoryofhowPhilWeigandandhiswife,arthistorianCeliaGarcíadeWeigandmadetheruins

TheTrans-MexicanVolcanicBeltstretchesfromthePacificcoasttotheCaribbeancoastofsouthernMexico.Itiscomposedofmorethan20volcanoes,someofwhichareamongMexico’shighestpeaks.TheseimpressiveformationswouldhaveundoubtedlyhaveinfluencedtheindigenouspeopleintheregionaroundGuachimontones.

www.mexi-go.ca 11

ofGuachimontonestheirlifeworkislegendary.In1963,CeliaandPhilwereonvacationintheTequilaValleynearthesmalltownofTeuchitlán.Duringthetrip,shediscoveredanumberoflargeobsidianbladesatthebottomofanaturalswimminghole,(obsidianwashighlyvaluedinpremetalculturesforitsabilitytoholdrazor-sharpedges).ThefindintriguedPhil,thenanarchaeologyfieldassistantinZacatecas.Togetherthecouplelocatedahugeobsidianworkshop,wheremillionsofbladesandsharppiecesofrockwerepileduptothreefeetdeepacrosstwoacresatthefootoftheextinctTequilavolcano.

Archaeologistsalreadyknewoftheregion’sancientshafttombs.DatingtothefirstcenturiesA.D.,thesetombshadsmallburialchambersatthebottomofverticalcutsuptosixtyfeetdeep.Manyhadalreadybeenplunderedoftheirvaluables,includingnearlylife-sizeseatedfigures,atthebeginningofthetwentiethcentury.Despitethesophisticationofthetombsandfigures,theareawasstillwidelyconsideredaculturalbackwatercomparedtoMexico’sCentralValleyandtheYucatán.Inarchaeologicalterms,thetombsexistedinavacuum.Virtuallynothingwasknownaboutthepeoplewhomadethem.

“Weplannedtospendasummer,oratmosttwo,”Philsaysoftheirinitialprojectinthevalley.Thatchangedwhentheydiscoveredremnantsoflarge,roundbuildingsscatteredthroughouttheregion.NothinglikethemhadeverbeenseenbeforeinMexico--oranywhereelse.

Duringtheirfirstfieldseasonin1970,theWeigandsexaminedaerialphotosofthevalley.“Wefoundhundredsofbuildingsshapedlikeconcentriccircles,mostlyaroundthevolcano,”Philsays.“Theywereeverywhere!”

A217-acresiteabovethetownofTeuchitláncalledLosGuachimontoneswasespeciallyinteresting.Afterstrugglingupthesideofthevolcano,Philrecalls,“Wefinallyreachedacircularcompoundwhosebeauty,symmetry,andmonumentalityfarexceededtheexpectationswehadformedfromtheaerialphotographs.”Hugecircularstructurescoveredwithvegetationsatonanaturalplatformoverlookingawide,lushvalley.Thoughlocalfarmersknewthesite,itwasvirtuallyunknowntotheoutsideworld,archaeologistsincluded.

TheWeigandshaddiscoveredanewcivilization,onetowhichtheywoulddevotethenextthirtyyearsoftheirlives.

Whattheyhadfoundwasaceremonialcenter,theheartofwhattheWeigandsnamedtheTeuchitlántradition.Thiscomplexsociety,responsibleforthearea’sshafttombs,reacheditspeakbetween200B.C.andA.D.350,whenmorethan50,000peoplemayhavelivedwithinfifteenmilesoftheTequilavolcano.Atitsheight,theTeuchitlán

traditionwastheculturalcenterofWestMexico,withunique,complexarchitectureandatradenetworkthatstretchedfromGuatemalatoArizona.

MaxandIspentanumberofhoursexploringtheruins,andinthattimewerarelyspoke,onlytoanswerhisquestions,“WhatGoddidtheyworshiphere?”“MainlyagodnamedEhecatl”“WastherelotsofbloodysacrificelikewiththeAztecs?”“Notreally,Ehecatlwasapeacefulgod,mostlytheyburnedcorntohim”Icouldtellthatthisanswerdidn’tsatiatehisvideogameinducedADD,soItoldhimabouttheVoladoresandhoweachoneoftheroundpyramidsoncehadapoleinthecenterofitandthe“birdmen”wouldtiethemselvestothesepolesandflyaroundinhonorofEhecatlthegodofwind.WehadseenthebirdmenofVeracruzceremonybeforeandthethoughtofamanflyingaroundthetopofthesixty-footpyramidseemedtoappeasehisneedforactionandthelackofsacrifices.

OnourreturntothecarwereflectedonthefactthatwehadthesitealmostexclusivelytoourselvesandthatIhadfinallymadeittoLosGuachimontoneswithoutincident....orsoIthought.ReturningtothetownofTeuchitlánforamuch-deservedTecate(andlimonadafortheboy)wewatchedthefinaloftheEurochampions’leagueinapackedcantinaofmostlyChelseafans.WhenitwasdiscoveredthatIwascheeringforBayernMunich,thegoodnaturedteasingbegan....ofcoursethecursewouldn’thavebeencompletewithoutmyteamlosingheartbreakinglyinpenaltyshotsandtheentirebarexplodingincelebrationwithmanyjubilantsmirksdirectedtowardsme.

TRAVELLINGTOLOSGUACHIMONTONESGoingtoGuachimontones,youcanfeellikeyou’rereallydiscoveringsomething,notjustfollowingawell-worntouristroute.Bycar,itisonly45minuteswestfromGuadalajara.Itisalsoeasilyaccessiblebybusalthoughitwilltaketwiceaslong,asthebusmakesfrequentstops.

DriveoutofthecityalongAvenidaVallartaandtaketheTepic-Guadalajarahighway(Hwy15).TakethelefthandturntowardsthetownofTalaonRevolución(Hwy4)anddriveuntilyouseesignsfortheGuachimontones.TurnrightanddrivetoTeuchitlán.LosGuachimontonesare

abovethetown.Thereisdecentsignageandever helpfulresidentstodirectyouifyougetturnedaround.TherearealsotoursfromdowntownGuadalajarathatwillhandleallthedriving,translatingandmoreforabout$40usdperperson.http://www.ambientetequilero.com/tequila_valley_tour.html

Max looking for secret passageways. The main pyramid very dry and brown in the summer heat. A rendition of what archeologists think Los Guachimontones would have looked like. the lush farming puebla of Teuchitlan. Lakeshore in Teuchitlán


Applying The New Math for Retirement in MexicoFull time living is good in La Paz, Baja Sur

ByJimDonahoe

AsamatteroffulldisclosureJimDonahoeisslightlybiasedwhenitcomestolivinginMexicoandLaPazingeneral.HehaslivedandworkedinLaPazforthepastthreeyearsandhasno

complaints.

“Backintheday”therewasalotoftalkaboutbuyingasecondhomeatsomegreatparadiselocation(likeLaPaz,BajaSur)andsplittingretirementbetweena‘principal’residenceat‘home’andthesecondhome.My,howtheworldhaschangedforsomanybabyboomerslookingtoretiretoacomfortablelifestyleenvisionedforsolong.Theeconomicabyssthathasconsumedsuchalargepartofmanyfolks’nesteggshasforcedustore-evaluateourretirementplans.

Wehavestartedtoanalyzethecostofmaintainingthelifestylewehadplanned.Whatwillitcostforhealthcare,food,transportation,entertainment,travelandsuch?Wearealsoreviewinghomeownershipcosts–maintenance,mortgage,insurance,utilitiesandpropertytaxes?

Formany,afterexaminingthenumbers,buyingadreamhomeinMexicoappearedasmoreofamiragethanclearvision.Thenumberssimplywouldn’twork.EntertheNew Math for Retirement.Forsome,arevelationtakesplaceafterthisfinancial“checkup”.

Consider if Mexico was your primary residence?Ifyourdreamwastolivein“paradise”for3or4months…whynotmakeLaPazyourprimaryresidence?Howmuchcouldyoursellyourcurrenthomefor?WhatcouldyoubuyasareplacementinLaPaz?

Here,youcanpurchaseahomeorwaterviewcondosstartingaround$150,000.BysellingbackinCanadaandbuyinginMexicoyouareapplyingtheNewMathandyourdepletednesteggwillbegintogrowagain.Now,comparehomeownershipcosts.Startwithpropertytaxes.Afriend,whoownsahalfmillion-dollar-LaPaz-homerecentlypaid$325forhis2012propertytaxes.HesoldhisUShome

for$600,000.Hisannualpropertytaxbillforthathomewas$6,500.The$500permonthsavingworkswellforhiminmaintainingacomfortableretirementlifestyle.Maintenanceisveryaffordablewiththecostoflabourbeingaslowas$25foradayswork.Heatisanotherareawhereyoucanpotentiallysavethousandsofdollarseachyeardependingonwhichfrozenlandyoucamefrom.

Nowcompareothercostoflivingexpenses.Howabouthealthcare?DidyouknowthatyoucanpurchaseanindividualMexicanhealthinsurancepolicyforlessthan$400peryear…notpermonth?ThequalityofhealthcareinLaPazisverygood.Recently,afriendwhomovedhereanddoesnothaveinsurance,gotthefluandwenttoalocalclinic.AvisitwithanEnglishspeakingdoctorcost$40pesos–alittleover$3USandprescriptionsfillednextdoorwere$97pesos-$8US.Howdoesthiscomparetoavisittoyourdoctorbackinthehome?

Howaboutfood–groceriesandeatingout?Ifyouinsistonbrandnamesandtoprestaurantsyouwillnotexperienceabigsavings.However,onceyougettoknowLaPazyouwillfindgreatlocalgrocerystoresandterrific,affordablerestaurants.Forexample,IregularlyenjoytwoshrimptacosandadrinkatPepe’sonPrieto.Totalbillfortwoofus-$76pesos($6US).

AsmuchasIdislikedtheNewMathwhengoingtoschoolinthe60’s,IlovetheNewMathasitappliestoaffordablecostoflivinginLaPaz.

Bytheway,therumorsaretrue…summersgetalittlewarminLaPaz.Ifyoudoneedabreakfromthesummerheat…takea“vacation”.VisitfamilyandfriendsbackinCanadaortraveltosomeotherexoticlocation…afterall,youcanaffordit…simplybyapplyingtheNewMath.

JimDonahoehasbeenalicensedrealestatebrokerforthirtyplusyears,hasconsultedthroughoutWesternMexicoforthelastnineyearsandhasbeenafulltimePacenofornearlythreeyears.

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USING NEW MATH IN LA PAZ, BAJA SUR

CASA GRANDE | $574,900 Casuallyelegantestatejust20minutestoLaPaz.8,500SFhome.Includesallfurnishings.Waterviewfrom2ndstory.Ownershaveinvestedover$1million.Nowreducedwithoptionalownerfinancing.MLS:11-882

CONDO COLINA DEL SOL | $299,950.Sweepingcityandwaterviewsfromthis2bedroom/2.5bathcondo.Verywellbuilt.Only15unitsincomplex.Pool,gym,BBQarea.MLS:11-882

CONDO GAYLORD | $219,000Wonderfulwaterviewwithabeachjust1+blocksaway.Newhotel/restaurantcomingnextdoor.2bedroom/2bathwithRresortlikeamenities.MLS12-324

CASA DEL CASTILLO | $120,000Trueindoor/outdoorlivingnearElCentro.1,000+SF1bdrmhome,1,200+SFthatchedroofcoveredarea,gardenwithfruittreesand900+SFconcretefloorRV/boatstoragearea.MLS:12-747

CASA RAMIREZ IN EL CENTRO | $135,000 Walktoeverything.2largebedroomswith2baths.Gatedentry,wellbuiltjust6yearsago.1,600SFhome.Enclosedbackyard.Sellerismotivated.Greatvalue.MLS:11-1551

CONDO LA CONCHA | $469,500 Oneoftheonly“onthebeach”condosinLaPaz.Largecornerunitswith2bedroom/2.5bathonthe4thstory.2masterbedrooms.Nearly2,400SF.Gatedentry.Wellmaintainedwithhappyowners.MLS:12-664

FortheselistingsandmoreintheBajaCaliforniaSurareavisit:http://realestateforsaleinmexico.com/


Driving the Mexican HighwaysByRobertH.PageMD&CurtisP.PageMDAuthors,Mexico:HealthandSafetyTravelGuide

AnyCanadianthathasdriventheroadsofMexico willtellyouthattheexperiencecanbequitedifferentthanwhattheyareaccustomtobackhome.Whilethetollroads(“cuotas”)are

generallyverysafethe“libre”orfreeroadsarepoorlymaintained.UpuntilabouttenyearsagoMexico’sgovernment-maintainedfreewayswereinshambles.Theyprivatizedthesystemandnowcorporationsownlong-termleasesonthecountry’snumeroustollroads.Internationalengineershelpedwiththeplanningandconstruction.Theresultisanexcellentandmuchsaferroadwaynetworkbutatasubstantialcost.Asanexample,ifyoutakethetollroadsfromGuadalajaratoMexicoCity(aboutasixtoeighthourdrive),itwillcostyouapproximately550pesos($50US)eachway.Thus,mostofthetollroadsarefairlyunclutteredandeasytomaneuver.Incontrast,aneighboringtwo-lane“libre”orfreehighwaytypicallycontainsmuchslowermovingtraffic.Ifyougetbehindasemioranold,beatenup,20mph,gas-guzzleryoumaybeinforalongnightifoncomingtrafficisheavy.Wealwaysrecommendthatyoutravelthe“cuota”roads,thoughthe“libre”roadsaresometimesunavoidableandwesuggestyouexerciseparticularcautiononthe“libre”roads.

SpeedlimitsinMexicoaregenerallymuchlowerthanintheUSandCanada,butrarelyenforced.Itisuncommontoseeapatrolcaronthehighway,thoughinthetouristareasyouwillseeyourfairshareofpatrolcars.Themilitarypolicearemuchmorecommon,butmostlyservetoinspectcarscrossingstatelines.Unwarrantedspeedbumps(topes)andpotholesareoftenallthatisneededtoregulatespeed.SlowertrafficgenerallystaystotherightinMexico,andyouwillangerotherdriversifyoudonotfollowthisrule.Theleftlanesarereservedforpassingandthefastestdriverinthevicinity.

Ingeneral,driveatthespeedlimitanddefinitelytrytodriveindaylight.Streetlightsareuncommonespeciallyonthe“libre”roadsandthereareenoughcarswithmalfunctioningheadlightsthatitcanbedownrightdangerous.MexicandriversappeartobegreaterrisktakersthanthoseintheUSandCanadaandtheyoftenfollowtheirownsetofrules;itoftenfeelsasthroughthetrafficlawsaresuggestionsmorethanactuallaw.Manydriverswill commonlypassonthesolidyellowline. Beextracarefuloncurvyormountainousroads,slowmovingdriverswilloftenpasswithoutagoodviewofoncomingtraffic.Becauseoftheroughroadwayconditions,driverstendtocommunicatewitheachotherabitmore.Itismorecommonforpassingdriverstowarneachotherofupcomingdangerbyflashingtheirlights.Ifyouareapproachinganarrowbridgewhereonlyonecaratatimecanpass,itiscustomaryforthedriverthatflashedhislightsfirsttohavetherightofway.Ablinkingleftturnsignalonthevehicleinfrontofyoucouldmeanthatitisclearaheadandsafetopass.Thiscouldalsomeanthatthedriverisabouttotakealeftturn,sobecareful.Whenforcedtostopabruptlyornoticedangerahead,mostdriversturnontheirhazardstowarncarstailingthem.

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Thereareseveralotherunforeseendangerstofirst-timedriversoftheMexicanhighways.Roadsideshouldersmayhavedangerousdrop-offs,sousecautionwhenpullingover.IfyouareplanningalengthydrivethroughoutMexico,bepreparedfortiredamage,especiallyinChiapasorOaxaca.Potholesarenumerousespeciallyinruralareasandonthe“libre”roads.Makesureyouhaveagoodspareandjackbeforeyougoanywhere.Alsoinruralfarmlandareasalongthe“libre”roads,animalsoccasionallystrayontothehighway.Itisnotuncommontorunintoafarmerorrancherherdinghiscattleorsheepacrossthehighway. TherearefewermarkingsorlightsalongMexicanhighways,especiallyonthe“libre”roads,soagain,trytodriveduringdaylighthours.Underrainyconditionstravelwithextracautionastheremaybemoreoilanddustorsandon manystretchesofhighway.Alongthe“libre”roadsattheentranceofmostsmalltownsthereareunmarked“topes” orlargespeedbumpsintheroadtoslowdowntraffic. Donottaketopeslightly;youwilldamageyourtiresoryourfrontendifyouhitthemtoofast.Keepyourspeeddowntoaminimumwhendrivinginthesetowns,asthereareoftenpeopleintheroad.

Ifyoudohavemechanicalproblemsandcanfindagoodmechanicdon’talwaysexpectanyonetohavethepartyouneed.Makesureyoutakeyourcarinforagoodcheck-upbeforeyouheadoutandkeep

adirectoryofcardealersonhand.Fortunately,theGreenAngelsor“AngelesVerdes”patrolthehighwaysandofferassistancetostranded

motorists.Thisfleetoftrucksisdrivenbymostlybilingualmechanics. TheGreenAngelscanbereachedbydialing01-55-5250-8221anywhereinMexico(hoursofattention:8am-8pm).Ifyoudon’tspeakanySpanish,youcanphoneInfoturat01-55-5250-0123forassistance.Theyareavailable24hrsandgenerallyhaveEnglish-speakingstaffavailable.IfyourequirethehelpoftheGreenAngels,bepreparedtodirectthemtoyourapproximatespot,

i.e.20kilometerssouthofPuertoVallartaonhighway200onthewaytoManzanillo.TheGreenAngelschargeforparts,oilorgasbutnotservice.Youwillbeexpectedtopayincash.Foryoursafety,packanextrafanbelt,fusesandanautofirst-aidkit. Also,bringaflexiblefunnelassomegasstationshavenozzlestoolargetofitunleadedordesieltanks.

Besuretomapoutyourtripbeforeyougoandgivesomeonebackhomeyourtravelitinerary.TheMexicangovernmenthasdevelopedawebsite(capufe.gob.mx)dedicatedtodrivingtheMexicantollroadsthatoffersdrivingdistancesbetweencitiesandservicesrenderedonthoseroads.ThereistheoptiontoviewthesiteinEnglish,thoughnotallofithasbeentranslated.WealsorecommendyouvisityourlocalCAAstore,whereyouwillfindinformationonMexicanautomotiveinsuranceaswellasusefulroadmaps.BybeingpreparedyoucanrelaxandenjoythediversescenerythatMexicohastooffer.


Generallyspeaking,thosetwomenareresponsiblefortransformingtheMexicanwineindustryfromgrowingsubstandardfruittointroducingandcultivatingthe

classicFrenchandItalianvarietals.ThisperiodinBajaCaliforniawineculturehistorymarkedthebeginningofthepropagationofworld-classfruitandestablishedthecultureofqualityforfuturewinemakers.Overthelastonehundredyears,BodegaSantoTomashasevolvedwithfacilitiesandvineyardsinValledeSantoTomasandindowntownEnsenada.However,fewwineloversareawarethatSantoTomasnowhasawinetastingroomandwinemakingfacilityinGuadalupeValley.Severalyearsagotheownerspurchasedanolder,establishedwineryandvineyards,slowlytransformingthepropertyintoadynamictourdestination.Pleasantly,they’vedonethesamewiththequalityoftheirwinewhichhasproducedaward-winningwines.Thecurrentwineportfolioisvastanddiversewiththirty-eightsinglevarietalandblendsofwhiteandredwinegrapes.

Myfavoritesare:Tempranillo,Barbera,andtheirMision1889–blendofTempranillo,CabernetSauvignonandBarbera.Theyhave

somepremiumwhitewinesaswell:SauvignonBlanc,Viognier,CheninBlancandChardonnay.Theirwineportfolioisdiverseandwell-balanced,soIsuggestyouexploretheiroffereingsanddiscoveryouownpersonalpreferences.

TheSantoTomasfacilityinGuadalupeValleyinlocatedjustwestofHighway3nearKm95.AsyouenterthewinecountryfromEnsenadaandcrossthefirstbridge,you’llnoticetheentranceisontheleftsideofthehighway,markedbyagateandtwolarge,black

flags.Renovationstotheoldwineryincludeaneducationalcenter,scenicpatio,guidedtours,retailwinesales,oliveoilsandgifts.Thefacilityisopeneverydayfrom10amuntil5p.m.Winerymanager,IvanCortez,hasplanstohostspecialmoleparingswithSantoTomaswines,educationalseminars,weddingsandspecialevents.SantoTomaswineryhasdramaticallyimprovedthequalityoftheirwinesandhasbroughttheirnewoutlooktoGuadalupeValley.Thiscoming

fallseasonistheperfecttimetovisitthenewfacility.

Contact: [email protected] or (646) 151-9333.

ExperienceMexicowinesattheirbestintheGuadalupeValleyinNorthernBaja.VerysimilartotheOkanaganValley;wineries,B&B’sandlocalrestaurantsoffereverythingfromrustictoluxury.

Baja wines suprise with longevity and quality Santo Tomas in Guadalupe Valley

BySteveDryden,www.bajafoodandwine.com

BodegasSantoTomasistheoldestwineryinBajaCalifornia.Establishedin1888,itactuallybeganin1871andwasoriginallynamedRanchodelosDolores.DonFranciscodeAndoneguiandDonMiquelOrmartpurchasedthewineryin1888andmovedthemainoperationfacilitiestoEnsenadain1929.Oneyearlaterin1930,thegovernorofBajaCalifornia,AbelardoRodriguezboughtthewinery,planted2000hectaresofgrapesandhiredItalianenologist,EstebanFerroasaconsultantandtherestishistory.

Real Estate in the NAFTA CountriesByJohnK.Glaab,CIPS

EachofthethreeNAFTAcountrieshasastrongrealestateassociation.Thishelpsbuyersandsellersbeassuredofsolid,safe,legaltransactions.

TheCanadianRealEstateAssociation(CREA)isthebodygoverningtheindustryinCanada.ItalsoownsthetrademarkforMLS(MultipleListingService)inCanada.InNovemberof2011,CREAsignedaletterofagreementwiththeMexicanAssociationofRealEstateProfessionals(AMPI).ThisagreementpermitsCREAmemberstosendreferralclientstoAMPImembersinMexicoundertheconditionsoutlinedintheCodeofEthicsforeachcountry.

AMPIisfifty-sixyearsold.Ithasoversixtyrepresentativesectionsthroughoutthecountry.Someofthestrongestandmostactiveareinthetouristareas.TwoexamplesarethesectionsintheBanderasBayareaandinBajaCaliforniaSur.ThesesectionshaveaccesstoaFlexMultipleListingService(MLS).ThisallowspeoplefromaroundtheglobetofindthatspecialretirementorvacationhometobuyinMexico.TheFlexMLSprovidesconsumerswithmanylistingsfromcompeteingbrokeragesandagents.ItisverysimilartotheMLSsysteminCanadabutislimitedbythenumberofagenciesparticipatingineachregion.ManyCanadiansandU.S.citizenshaveacquiredandcontinuetopurchasepropertyinMexico.TheyareencouragedtousetheservicesofAMPImembers.Onereasonisthatasofthisdate,onlyafewMexicanstateshavelicensinglaws,butmembersofAMPIconformtoarigidCodeofEthicsandhavebylawsgoverningthepracticeofrealestateinthecountry,verysimilartothoseoftheUSandCanada.

IfyouarepurchasingrealestateineithertheBajaCaliforniaSurareaorinPuertoVallarta-BahiadeBanderasitisadvisabletoworkwithanAMPImembertoensureyouarereceiveingthemostprofessionalandqualifiedservice.ThereareAMPImembersinmostotherareasofMexicoandyoucanaccesstheAMPImembershipfromthenationalAMPIwebsiteatwww.ampi.orgTheNationalAssociationofRealtors®(NAR)isthelargesttradeassociationintheU.S.IthasformalagreementswithbothCREAandAMPI.Inshort,therealestateassociationsinthethreeNAFTAcountriesarealignedtopromotesolidindustrystandardsandprofessionalismintheacquisitionandsaleofpropertiesinallthreecountries.


ThesecretofChacalaisslowlyseepingitswayintothemainstream.LocatedmidwayupthegorgeouscoastlineofRivieraNayarit,justnorthofPuertoVallarta,Chacalalong

beenrecognizedasasafecovewithpristinebeaches,gentlewavesandexcellentsurf.Withtherecentadditionofapavedroadoffthehighway,theresidentsofChacalaarestartingtoseemorechangesinthegrowthofthetown.Justatenminuteboatride(panga),willtakeyoutothegreatsurfbreaknamedLaCaleta(thecove),whichattractsworldclasssurfers.Diversityiscertainlysomethingtobefoundinthisfriendlyandcharmingvillage,surroundedbyvibrantgreenjungleandmangocladmountainranges.WiththenewplazaandahandfulofnewhotelsandB&B’s,Chacalaisanauthenticretreat,perfectforfamilies,adventurersandthoselookingtoescapeitall.

Byfar,oneofthemostuniquehotelsandgardensyouwillencounterinChacalawouldbethedesignandconstructionofthe“MajahuaHotelSelva”(JungleHotel),byJoseEnriquedelValle.Thewindingpathwaysfulloflushvegetationenroutetotheindividualbungalowsaremagicalandtruly“eyecandy”.Thenaturalredclay,bambooandfloracometogetherinavisuallyarrestingarrayofcoloursandtextures.Ashortstrollthroughthejunglewrappedtrailswillfindyou

attherestaurantwhichcommandsdrop-deadviewsoverthemainbeach,withitsmanypalaparestaurants,andbeyondtothebluePacific.

ThecreationofMajahuaHotelSelvawasbasedonJoseEnrique’sdesiretoofferaplacetocommunewithnature,wherethehustleandbustleofdaytodaylifefallsaway,insteadofferingthesoothingsoundsofthejungleandsea.

Auniqueoutdoorgalleryofantiquephotosisdisplayedalongthejunglepath.Blownintonearlife-sizetheyofferreallifecharacters,pokingtheirfaces,andhistory,betweentheswayingpalms.Thishasbeenappropriatelynamedthe“JungleGallery”,andrepresentsthephotographyofManuelRamos,anearly1900’spressphotographer.

TheflairofJoseEnriquedelValleisapleasuretoexperience. ManyofhisdesignsarescatteredthroughoutRivieraNayaritwherehecreatesorganicspacesbetweenthejungleandthesea.Hisconstructionintegratesthebuildingtoitssurroundings,takingintoaccounthisstrongethicsonprotectingasmanytrees,rocksandlevelsoflandaspossible.Initially,Jose’sconstructionsonthePacificCoastconsistedofnaturalmaterialsandancienttechniques,suchasbajarequewalls(branchesandsand),woodbeamsandthatchedroofs.However,astimeprogressed,hebeganintegratingthoseprocesseswithbrick,concreteandsteel.Thiswasanimportantchange,asthearchitectmustbearinmindtheneedsoftheowner,suchasdurability,strengthandmaintenance.ThepleasureoflivingnexttothesearequiressomeextrathoughtandithascertainlybeenwellconceivedattheMajahuaHotelSelva.

JoseEnriquedelValle’sworkismostoftenfoundincommercialventures,suchasB&B’s,restaurants,barsandhotels,manyofwhicharelocatedinSayulita.ConsidermebiasedbutmyvoteforthebestofhisdesignsgoestothecharmingjunglehotelabovethesoutherncoveofChacala.

WithChacalamovingintothespotlight,propertiesarebeingspeculatedmuchlikeagoldrush,sotimewilltelltheextentofdevelopmentthefutureholdsforthislovelylocation.WitharchitectslikeJosewecanrestassuredthattherelationshipbetweenland,sea,anddevelopmentwillbeasymbioticone.

Visit www.majahua.com for more information on the resort and www.nayarit4fun.com for more information on the charming town of Chacala.

Architect of NatureArchitect Jose Enrique del Valle’s Majahua Hotel ByLindyLiang


FearsofawidespreadfinancialcrisisinEuropehavepushedupthepriceofpreciousmetalsandMexico’sminingindustryisreapingthebenefitsofthismodernday“goldfever.”OneoftheleadingcompaniesoperatinginMexicoand,undoubtedlytheonewiththehighestsustainablegrowthratesisGoldcorpCanada,whichalsohasmininginterestsintheUS,DominicanRepublic,Guatemala,ChileandArgentina.Goldcorpistheworld’ssecond-largestgoldproducerintermsofmarketvalueandhashadasurprisinglypositiveimpactonMexico’sminingindustry.

In2002,followingtheacquisitionofLuismine(aminethathasbeenoperatingforoveracentury),GoldcorpbecameMexico’slargestgoldproducer.Inadditiontogold,thecompanyalsoproducessubstantialamountsofsilver,leadandzincatitsthreemines–ElSauzal(Chihuahua),LosFilos(Guerrero)andPeñasquito(Zacatecas)–,whiletheCaminoRojoandNocheBuenaprospectingprojectsaresatellitesofPeñasquito.Goldcorphas7,000employees,85%ofwhomarehiredinthecommunitiesandstatesinwhichthecompanyoperates.Therestareexpertsbroughtinfromotherareasofthecountry.

“Thecompany’ssuccesscanbelargelyattributedtoresponsible,sustainable,growth,whichhasbenefitedallinterestedparties–partners,investorsandlocalcommunities–andhelpedoptimizethestandardsofMexico’sminingindustry,”statesGoldcorpMexicoVice-presidentSalvadorGarcía,addingthatthecountryalsooffersoptimalconditionsfordoingbusiness.

“Mexicoisveryimportanttotheglobalgroup.Goldcorp’spolicyistoinvestonlyincountriesthataresocially,economicallyandpoliticallystable.Mexicohasallthesecharacteristics,sowehavemajorexpansionplanshere,”explainsGarcía.

“AtCaminoRojo,90kilometersfromPeñasquito,weareatthefinalprospectingphase.Resultshavebeengoodandwhatfollowsisafeasibilitystudy.Thenewminehasdepositsofseveralmetals,includingsubstantialgoldreserves,andwillhelpimproveGoldcorp’spositioning.”

Theoutlookfor2012ispromising.Overthecomingmonths,Goldcorpplanstoinvest71.5millionusdinprospectingprojects,withtwelveandfourmillionusdallocatedtoCaminoRojoandNocheBuena,respectively.Anothertwentymillionusdwillbechanneledintoregionalprospectingprojects.

AccordingtoGarcía,thebusinessenvironmentforthesectorisfavorablerightnow,butnoneofthiswouldhavebeenpossiblewithoutthecooperationofallthreelevelsofgovernment.

“Ican’tstresstheimportanceofthis,becauseitgivesGoldcorppeaceofmind.Mexicohasveryclear-cut,well-establishedtaxregulationsandtheMinistryofEconomyhasbeenverysupportive.TheirGeologicalServicesDivisionhasup-to-datestatsonthewholecountryandanultra-moderndatasystem,allofwhichhasbeenveryhelpfulwhenitcomestoprocessingpaperworkandobtaininginformation,”saysGarcía.

RESPONSIBILITY ON ALL FRONTSGoldcorptakesitssocialandenvironmentalcommitmentsveryseriously.Newminesareofteninremotepartsofthecountryandcanbedifficulttoreach,whichiswhythecompanyhasfocuseditsenergiesonbuildinginfrastructureandcreatingjobsintheseunderdevelopedareas.

“Asidefromouremployees,partnersandinvestors,Goldcorpviewsthecommunitiesinthemine’svicinityasamajorinterestgroup.Wehavetogetalongwiththemandrespecttheircustomsandtraditions,yetwehavearesponsibilitytoimprovetheirstandardofliving.Wehavedonealotinthisrespectandhavefocusedonhealth,educationandinfrastructuretocreatebetterconditionsforthesecommunities,”continuesGarcía.

In2010,Goldcorpcontributed32.5millionusdtolocalgovernmentinfrastructure,healthandeducationalprograms,andotherproductiveprojectsinMexico.Since2007,thecompanyhasimplementedoverfiftyproductiveinitiatives,benefitinganestimated1,000people.

GOLDCORPSTRIKES IT RICHIN MEXICOCANADIANMININGGIANT,GOLDCORPHASBEENOPERATINGINMEXICOSINCE2002.TODAYITISTHECOUNTRY’SLEADINGGOLDPRODUCER,WITHPLANSTOINVEST71.5MILLIONUSDINTOPROSPECTINGPROJECTSIN2012.

MIDAS FIGURESIn2010,combinedgoldproductionatLosFilos,PeñasquitoandElSauzalwasapproximately626,400ounces,risingtoanestimated680,000ouncesin2011.

PeñasquitoinZacatecasiscurrentlythecompany’slargestandmostproductivemineinMexico,turningout250,000ouncesofgoldin2011.Thisopen-pitminealsoproducessilver,leadandzincandhasanestimatedlifespanoftwenty-threeyears.

NextinlineisLosFilosinGuerrero,anothergold-producingopen-pitoperationwhoseoutputcouldpotentiallybeboostedwith

improvementsinoperatingefficiencyandwhoseprovenreservesareincreasingbytheyear.In2010,LosFilosproduced306,100ouncesofgold,whileestimatesfor2011are335,000ounces.

AnothervaluablesourceofrevenuesisElSauzal,anopen-pitmineinthenorthernstateofChihuahuathatproduced152,100ouncesofgoldin2010andanestimated95,000ouncesin2011.

Between2006and2010,Goldcorpinvestedapproximately2.2billionusdinitsMexicanoperations.

Article reprinted with permission from Negocios ProMéxico, February 2012

“MEXICOISVERYIMPORTANTTOTHEGLOBALGROUP.GOLDCORP’SPOLICYISTOINVESTONLYINCOUNTRIESTHATARESOCIALLY,ECONOMICALLYANDPOLITICALLYSTABLE.MEXICOHASALLTHESECHARACTERISTICS,SOWEHAVEMAJOREXPANSIONPLANSHERE. -GOLDCORPMEXICOVICE-PRESIDENTSALVADORGARCÍA

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Tulumhasthreedistinctivezonesthatcometogethertocreateaharmonioustravellingexperience:thejaggedcoastlinejuxtaposedwithlushrainforest,theenergetictownfilledwiththesoundsofhagglingvendors,andthemystifyingMayanruinsproppedagainstthesparklingCaribbeanSea.ThisonceformidableMayacityisnowthemostpopularMayasiteontheYucatanPeninsula.InquisitivevisitorsofallagescomehereforaglimpseoftheElCastillo,TheTempleoftheFrescoesandTheTempleoftheDescendingGod.ThesiteoftheTulumruinsboastsoneofthegreatestbeachesintheCaribbean.Feelfreetojumpinthewaterandifyoucan,swimnorthtoBocaPailawheretheviewsarejustasstunning.Afteracooldipinthesea,trekuptothelargecraftsmarketforatrinketortwo,watchtheMayanPoleFlyersdisplaytheirincredibleskills,andgrababitealongtheway.

Tulum


TESMOLE DE POLLO MAZATECOByChefRosannaAcencio

TesmolesareatraditionaldishfromtheMazatecaregion,theycanbemadewithchickenorbeef,eitherstewedorsalted&dried.Eventhoughitisconsideredasimple,everydaydish,Tesmolesarepreparedinassociationwithspiritualeventslikebaptismsordayofthedeadceremonies.

INGREDIENTSServes816 Chickenthighsandlegs,cookedinapprox.10cupsofwateraterseasonedwithsaltand1/3ofamediumonion+2garliccloves(whenchickeniscooked,removeonion+garlicanddiscard20 Chiltepechiles–substitute:combinationof12guajilllosand8arbolchiles–stemsremoved1⁄4tspAchiotepaste2TbspYerbasantaleavesroughlychopped–substitutewith1Tbspoffreshtarragon1cupCornMasa(corndoughcanbemadewithinstantmasa-“maseca”–andwater)4cupsSteamedzucchinibatonsandgreenbeansSalttotaste

METHOD1.Soakthedrychilesinboilingwaterfor10–15minutesuntilsoftened2.Pourapproximately1cupofthechickenbrothinablenderjar,addthestrainedchiles–stemsandseedsremoved.Addtheyerbasanta.Blendwell,toasmoothconsistency3.Strainintothepotwiththerestofthebrothandthechickenpieces,stirringwell.Simmerovermediumheatforapproximately15–20mins4.Removethechickenfromthebroth,reserve.Dissolvethemasawithacupofthebrothandstirintothepotoverlowheat,makingsuretostirconstantlytoavoidlumpsfromforming.Thistechniqueiscomparablewithusingarouxtothickenasauce5.Simmerforanadditional10,untilthesaucebeginstothicken.Seasonwithsalt6.Returnthechickentothepotandstir7.Servewithsteamedvegetablesandwarmcorntortillasontheside

Mexi-Go! Magazine Sandi Allin Briscoe

CLIMATE IS PERFECT | LOW COST OF LIVINGGOLF 12 MONTHS OF THE YEAR

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918-398-9588 (Canada/US) 555-350-6331 (Mexico) 044-322-135-5822 (PV cell)01 212 706 332 (UK)617-600-9675 (FAX)www.MortgagesInMexico.com The Trusted Name in Mexico Home Loans since 2004

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WHY PAY CASH?25% DOWN AVAILABLEFinding a home loan is easy.Finding a trusted advisor is not.We o�er the �nancing options you want and the trusted professional services you need. Experience Counts. There IS a di�erence in loan o�cers.

We have heard rumors of hard times and recession. We have chosen not to participate and our business is booming.

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Lovethefeelofpaperinyourhands?Theeaseofreadingamagazineonyourdeck?ThensubscribetoMexi-Go!Magazinetodayandenjoytherealthing!

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MICHELADA

TheMicheladaislikeaCeasarbutmadewithbeer.It’stheperfectafternoonsnackonahotday.Isaysnackbecauseit’slikeamealinaglass.DependingonwhereyouareinMexicotheycanbecalledbymanydifferentnamesincludingCieloRojo,andChelada.Oftenitdoesn’tcomewithClamatounlessyouask.Andsometimesitcomesgarnishedwithfruit,salad,tamarindstraws,celeryandspicypeppersWelikeourslimeyandspiceybuteachtotheirown!

3limes,squeezedandwiththepulpscrapedlooseCoarsesalt2dashesWorcestershiresauce1dashsoysauce5dashesValentina’ssauce1pinchblackpepperorsteakseasoning1dashMaggiseasoning,12ouncesbeer,preferablysomethingMexican4-6ouncesClamatoJuice

SalttherimofyourglassAddplentyoficeAddallthespicesandsaucesAddthelimeandthelimepulpAddthebeerandclamato.Tasteandcontinuedoctoringuntilit’sperfectforyou!

www.mexi-go.ca 26

CASA DIONNE $299,000 USD

Los Sabinos, Ajijic 3 bed | 2 bath | 2234sf

Lock and go! Knowing it will all be perfect upon your return. Modern open floor plan dramatic domed ceiling large living and dining area flow to covered terrace, perfect for entertaining. Kitchen with granite stainless appliances. Master with en-suite bath, private guest bedroom and separate study. Amazing club house facilities include huge pool & Jacuzzi. Stress free living.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SEE MORE PHOTOS: www.ajijicvillagehomes.com

CHIC GATED COMMUNITY

CASA MARILYNN $245,000

Ajijic Village 2 bed | 2 bath | 2348sf

Enter through the beautiful garden with a cozy entertainment pavillion. Palladian french doors enter the living area with fireplace. Split level dining/den area open to kitchenthat features hand painted Mexican tiles and a stunning view to the mountains. Master bedroom suite and the guest suite are seperate. Walkable to all amenities. Great location!


ROMANTIC VILLAGE HOME

VILLA MIRADOR $750,000 USD

Ajijic, La Floresta 3 bed | 3.5 bath | 5682sf

Luxury new home private and secure. Designed to embrace the moderate climate with outdoor living. Walled gardens with a pool, bbq and outdoor kitchen. Great floor plan with all rooms flowing out to huge covered terrace Guest floor with kitchen. Tropical landscaping is easy to maintain.


LUXURY NEW HOME

VILLA NIÑOS HEROES $189,000

Ajijic 2 bed | 2 bath | 1743sf

Perfect for year round living or snow birds. Enter off quiet street to large living room with fireplace & view thru to garden. High boveda ceilings and french doors. Sleep alcove/study for short term guests with private bath. Newly renovated kitchen. Bright master suite with large closet & new bath, all view to garden. Walled garden with view to mountains.


SPACIOUS VILLAGE HOME

VILLA EL TORO $525,000

Ajijic, La Floresta 3 bed | 3 bath | 4455sf

Enter courtyard flow thru grand entry with domed ceiling flow out to huge covered terrace view to pool & garden fountains add to design look. All rooms flow off terrace glamorous master suite separate private from guest suites. Gourmet kitchen custom cabinets. All move in condition. 2 car garage


BRIGHT SPACIOUS “ NEW HOME”

www.mexi-go.ca

AJIJIC VILLAGE ON LAKE CHAPALA www.ajijicvillagehomes.com

AFFORDABLE LUXURY HOMES

10,000 CANADIANSMAKE AJIJIC MEXICO THEIR HOME. You can too!

TRUDIE NELSON - Your Canadian Realtor [email protected]

www.eagerrealty.com

MEXICAN REAL ESTATE FOR CANADIAN BUYERS

CASA LEACH 3 bed | 3 bath | 4,498 sf $395,000 USD

Built in 2007 for handicap accessibility on both levels and tastefully furnished this custom built home that has it all. Walled for privacy and security with parking for 3 cars and convenient elevator to the main floor. Large terrazza offers 180+ degree unobstructed view of both Scorpion and Mezcala Islands. Bonus! A one bedroom casita on the lower level with its own courtyard and lake view.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SEE VIDEO TOURS CLICK HERE: www.accesslakechapala.com/2011/11/09/casa-leach/

EASY ACCESSIBILITY ON ONE LEVEL

GREAT DEAL! 1 bed | 1 bath | 1,377 sf $97,800USD

One Bedroom, one bath, partially furnished, near the entrance inside of Vista Del Lago. Wow! You even have your own swimming pool. Large covered patio with mountain views. Enjoy golf course living from under $100,000.00 USD. The house is currently rented.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SEE MORE PHOTOS CLICK HERE: http://chapalamls.com MLS ID No. RC1CJ656

A LITTLE TLC AND THIS HOME IS A WINNER!

CASA MADILL 3 bed | 3.5 bath | 4,971 sf $299,900 USD

5000 sq. ft. home with panoramic views of Lake Chapala and the mountains from the vast covered terrace. This home offers generous living and entertaining areas with open concept living and dining room along with separate office/den. Lots of features in this home including: Walk-in closets, fireplace, salt water pool with swim-up bar, new windows and doors, 2 car garage and access to the second fairway.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SEE MORE PHOTOS CLICK HERE: http://youtu.be/Psdwtxuv9lQ

ALL THE AMENITIES FOR A FRACTION OF THE COST!

CASA POIRIER 4 bed | 5 bath | 6,338 sf $399,000 USD

Located on the second fairway with spectacular views this renovated house includes 2 casitas set on a beautifully maintained property. Enjoy your large terrazzo that spans entire living room and master bedroom. Downstairs are 2 one bedroom casitas. Time for a round of golf? Your new homes includes a golf cart and golf course access!

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SEE A VIDEO TOUR CLICK HERE: www.accesslakechapala.com/2011/11/09/casa-poirier/

SINGLE LEVEL HOME WITH 2 CASITAS

ON THE 3RD HOLE 2 bed | 2 bath | 1,592 sf $99,000 USD

A LITTLE SLICE OF HEAVEN. Located on the 3rd green at Chapala Country Club. This 2 bedroom, 2 bath is its own little oasis. Living room has gas fireplace and covered patio covers full length of the house. House is being sold furnished and is move-in ready. Although this is an older and smaller property in Vista del Lago with a little TLC and a few upgrades it’s a great value.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PHOTOS CLICK HERE: http://chapalamls.com MLS ID No. RC1CJ521

READY TO RENOVATE INTO YOUR DREAM HOME

www.mexi-go.ca

JOHN CEARNALHernandez Realty GroupAjijic, Jalisco MexicoToll Free: (817)350-4325Local: (376) [email protected]

VISTA DEL LAGO | LAKE CHAPALA PROPERTIES www.casasajijic.com

Ten minutes east of town, Vista del Lago is home to the Chapala Country Club with a challenging nine-hole golf course overlooking the lake. Beautiful private homes surround the course. Conveniently located with easy access to Chapala and all the amenities of a large Mexican town, this community is made up of mainly expat Americans and Canadians many of whom live year round in this paradise. With near perfect weather, excellent golf and stunning lake and mountain views Vista del Lago offers many types of homes and lots to fit any budget. As a long time resident of Vista del Lago and an avid golfer, John can help you with any of your Lake Chapala questions.

Call or email him today! Check out www.casasajijic.com

SOLDUNDER $100K

UNDER $100K

www.mexi-go.ca 28

This lovely fully-furnished hacienda from 1891, has been updated as a comfortable modern home. 4508sf w/4 bedrooms each with full bath, plus a guest half-bath. The Machine House and the Main House have large shady terraces with traditional arches and columns. The old hand dug well and several other wells on the property provide fresh clear water for the pool and gardens.

With a total of over 13,5 acres (5,5 hectares) there is room to add guest rooms, stables, nature trails. The property is entirely fenced and ready to move.

Price USD$ 680,000 Contact: [email protected] US +52 (33) 3627-6437 www.sirguadalajara.com

HACIENDA SANTA CRUZ TICUM YUCATAN, MEXICO

Unique 3 bed/3 bath ocean view Villa has been completely renovated to the highest standards. Lines are crisp & clean with splashes of baroque, modern, classical, Spanish colonial and Asian twists that work together as a symphony of design. Furnishings available. An absolute delight.

US$975,000

Contact: [email protected] US+ 205-277-6454 +52 (624) 172-6555

ATLANTIS HOUSE PALMILLA, LOS CABOS

Located in the prestigious private community of Villas del Mar, this beachfront home offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths on two levels with two garages (4 cars). Spacious terraces surround the beachside infinity pool and firepit. Includes membership to Club 96.

US$3,495,000


VILLAS DEL MAR PALMILLA, LOS CABOS

Charming home now adapted as a boutique hotel located in the heart of Ajijic. The fusion of Moroccan and Spanish style crafts a picturesque setting of shaded patios, balconies and terraces. 3,815 sf w/ 4 bedrooms and 4 suites. Each guest has access to spacious bathrooms, private terraces and all the services they require.

This property offers the perfect location just steps from the Malecon. With its commerical units of shops and art galleries, Hotel Casa Blanca presents an investment opportunity in the growing interest of the area.

Price USD$ 550,000 Contact: [email protected] US +52 (33) 3627-6437 www.sirguadalajara.com

CASA BLANCA AJIJIC, LAKE CHAPALA

A spectacular country house on the shore of Lake Chapala, a large outdoor terrace and garden with stunning landscapes and beautiful sunsets.

45 minutes from Guadalajara, Casa Tua offers peace and solitude with easy access to all major amenities including hospitals, shopping, international airport, theater, and more. An original Mexican style house, built entirely of adobe and wood, with high ceilings and large windows, the details and decor create a special atmosphere that invites you to spend unforgettable evenings by the fireplace.

Price $USD 650,000 Contact: [email protected] US +52 (33) 3627-6437 www.sirguadalajara.com

CASA TUA CHAPALA, JALISCO

Several 2-3 bedroom units available, completely furnished with spectacular water views, and steps to the water. Beautifully landscaped. Low density complex, and many units have garages. Within walking distance to grocery stores and restaurants. Several golf courses are nearby and the Los Cabos International Airport is about 15 minutes.

Prices start at $480,000 usd.


EL ZALATE BEACHFRONT CONDOS SAN JOSE DEL CABO

sirmexico.com | [email protected] Off ice is Independently Owned and Operated

Artfully uniting extraordinary homes with extraordinary lives


BEST DEAL IN CONCHAS CHINAS AREA! US $995,000

Casa Tula is a 3 bedroom 3.5 bath home, fully furnished, with fantastic ocean and mountain views, pool and 2-car garage. Construction - 7,104 sq. ft.; Land - 6,329 sq. ft.

CONTACT: [email protected] US+ (866) 242.1709 +52 (322) 173.8712

CASA TULA PUERTO VALLARTA, JALISCO

PRESTIGIOUS PUNTA ESMERALDA US $499,000

Condo Marisol located in prestigious Punta Esmeralda is a furnished, 3-bedroom, plus studio/4-bath condo with a large covered outdoor terrace and private plunge pool; includes many upgrades. Complex has 8 common area pools, spa, gym, beach club, gated 24-hour security. Construction – 3,068 sq. ft.


CONDO MARISOL LA CRUZ DE HUANACAXTLE, NAYARIT

PLENTY OF SPACE INDOORS AND OUT! US $389,000

This 2-bedroom/2-bath condo, fully furnished, has a large terrace with a covered roof, granite counters, marble floors throughout and many upgrades. Covered, deeded parking spot, separate storage room and all the amenities of the complex.

Construction – 1,690 s. ft.

Contact: [email protected] US+ (866) 242.1709 +52 (322) 173.8712

HUANACAXTLE 302 LA CRUZ DE HUANACAXTLE, NAYARIT

BEAUTIFUL BEACHFRONT COMMUNITY US $349,000

This house is a 3-bedroom/3.5-bath in a secure, gated beach-front community; furnished, with marble floors and beautiful stone work throughout; multiple terraces, newly tiled rooftop terrace providing panoramic ocean views. 1-year maintenance paid by very motivated seller. Construction – 2,153 sq. ft.; Land -2,390 sq. ft.

Contact: [email protected] US+ (866) 242.1709 +52 (322) 173.8712

VALLARTA GARDENS 37 LA CRUZ DE HUANACAXTLE, NAYARIT

RELAXED COUNTRY-STYLE LIVING! US $349,000

Located a short distance inland from Bucerias, Casa Linda is close enough to offer easy access to all necessities but far enough away from the hustle and bustle to provide peace and quiet. With a comfortable one-level, two-bedroom, two-bath house on a large lot, there is plenty of room for expansion if desired. Beautiful landscaping abounds. Construction – 1195 sq. ft. Land – 53,825 sq. ft.


CASA LINDA BUCERIAS, NAYARIT

EXCELLENT INVESTMENT PROPERTY! US $375,000

Two units in one! Each side of this duplex is a roomy 2-bedroom/2.5-bath home. Living area with half bath on the first floor; second floor of each unit has two bedrooms with en-suite baths. Each has its own private garage and plunge pool. Great investment property.

Construction – 2,432 sq. ft.; Land – 1,873 sq. ft.


CASA MARTIN LA CRUZ DE HUANACAXTLE, NAYARIT

REENA EGGER | REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST | RON MORGAN PROPERTIES

Artfully uniting extraordinary homes with extraordinary lives

REENA EGGER

322.173.8712 (Mexico)

866.242.1709 (USA & Canada)

www.reenaegger.com www.ronmorgan.net


2 Bedroom, 2 bath, oceanview, pool, internet

RENT from $1,200 usd/wk

Contact: [email protected]

52 (329) 291-3122, US(310) 341-3377

CASA JACARANDA SAYULITA

2 Bed, 3 bath, near beach, salt pool, internet, fountains, in town



52 (329) 291-3122, US (310) 341-3377

CASA SORPRESA SAYULITA

3 Bedroom, 3 bath, near beach, 2 shared pools, internet



52 (329) 291-3122, US (310) 341-3377

CASA MARGARITAVILLE SAYULITA

2 Bedroom, 3 bath, ocean view, internet, close to town center

RENT from $700 usd/wk


52 (329) 291-3122, US (310) 341-3377

CASA ALAS SAYULITA

3 self-contained suites. Total 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3rd floor ocean view, w/private roof deck, pool with cascade, central location (Gringo Hill)

RENT from $700 usd/week per suite ALSO FOR SALE $589,000usd entire casa or 2nd fl Condo $195,000usd

Contact: [email protected] 52 (329) 291-3122, US (310) 341-3377

CASA JUANITA 1, 2, 3 SAYULITA

3 Bedroom, 3 bath, near beach, ocean view, pool, internet, north end


Contact: [email protected] 52 (329) 291-3122, US (310) 341-3377

CASA VIDA SAYULITA

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