Articles by JimScherrer on ArticleSnatch.com

Herd Mentality As it Applies to Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:32:57 -0500

With the incredibly fine winter climate, proximity to the US and Canada, and the amenities offered, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico has long been recognized as a great resort destination as well as retirement haven for North Americans. Beginning early in the 21st century, Vallarta, as with many other resort destinations, began an explosive period of growth. Developers from around the world flocked to Vallarta in order to cash in on the baby boomer retirement plans. Within a short period of time, most of the finest beach front and hillside properties were snatched up and planning began in earnest. Tower cranes were erected, dotting the skyline throughout the city, and construction workers from neighboring states rushed to the area for employment. As soon as the above projects were announced, the developers threw up beautiful sales offices and prepared for the land rush. These nice, spacious, air conditioned offices typically had comfortable lounge areas with new furnishings, pretty magazines, sometimes piped in music and perhaps a few free margaritas. They were typically staffed with English speaking, well dressed, experienced, professional sales personnel. Most of these new offices had multiple sales cubicles with the capability of negotiating two or three contracts at a time; **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> retirement]]> boomers]]> condos]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 70 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta, please visit us at PVREBA .

Escape From America Without Leaving America

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:46:51 -0500

By: Jim Scherrer As we all know, Christopher Columbus, while searching for China, first discovered the Americas when he arrived in San Salvador in 1492. On his second voyage, he landed in the Caribbean Islands, and on his last voyage in 1498, he arrived in the area of Venezuela. In 1497, the Italian sailor Giovanni Caboto (John Cabot), exploring on behalf of England, landed in Labrador and Newfoundland. Unfortunately, neither of these sailors was very well educated nor inclined to thoroughly document their voyages. In 1499, an educated Italian named Amerigo Vespucci joined a Spanish fleet and sailed to Venezuela. A few years later, the king of Portugal enlisted Vespucci to pilot another voyage to Brazil and by 1508, the voyages that Vespucci participated in were well documented. Although Amerigo Vespucci was a relatively insignificant person and had never led an expedition or discovered anything, his name appeared on much of the documentation and many of the New World land surveys. Using all of the freshly generated documentation, a German cartographer named Martin Waldseemuller prepared the first map of the New World in 1507. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agent]]> retire]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 70 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta, please visit us at PVREBA .

Christmas in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:28:28 -0500

Five centuries ago, Christmas was virtually nonexistent in Mexico; in fact, Christianity had not even been introduced to the New World. The native Aztec Indians weren't even aware of the concept of Christianity until 1524, when Twelve Franciscans (Twelve Apostles of New Spain) came to Mexico; about a decade later, the Dominicans followed. Soon after the arrival of the Twelve Franciscans, some of the native Indians began accepting the story of Christ and converting to Christianity. One such Indian, an indigenous farmer named Cuauhtlatoatzin (the talking eagle in the Nahuatl language) living north of what is now known as Mexico City, claimed to have witnessed an apparition of the Virgin Mary on Tepayac Hill. Our Lady of Guadalupe, as the Virgin Mary came to be known, is to this day recognized as the Patron Saint of all the Americas and is the basis for much of the Catholic faith throughout Mexico. As an example, the most predominate historical landmark in Puerto Vallarta is the Our Lady of Guadalupe church in El Centro. Evidently the Franciscans were quite impressed with their new convert; **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> Christmas]]> retirement]]> boomers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 70 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta, please visit us at PVREBA .

Mexican Stocks, Silver, and Real Estate--A Ten Year Review

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 13:46:07 -0400

The Consumer Price Indexes (CPI) program of the US Department of Labor produces monthly data on changes in the prices paid by urban consumers for a representative basket of goods and services in the United States. Tracking the CPI data began in 1913 and by 1983, inflation had reached 100%. Therefore, today most all data is calculated using a 1983 base of 100. For example, a CPI of 215.3 in 2009 indicates 115.3% inflation since 1983. Below is the inflation calculator based on data provided by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics showing inflation during the past decade: CPI Inflation Calculator If in 1998 (enter year) I purchased an item for $100 then in 2008 (enter year) that same item would cost: $132.09 Rate of inflation change: 32.1% The above calculator shows that if you put $100 under your mattress ten years ago it, through the inflation of goods and services during the past decade, it would be worth $76 ($100/1.32) today, i.e., worth 76% of its original value or a loss of 24% in terms of 1998 purchasing power. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Please refer to the GRAPHS associated with this article and for additional articles by Jim Scherrer pertaining to Retirement in Puerto Vallarta, please go to PVREBA and click on ARTICLES.

Boomers May Soon Overcome Top Objection to Retirement in Mexico

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:21:06 -0400

As retirees and 12 year residents of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, it's quite easy to extol the benefits of living in Mexico. Of course, not every part of Mexico is the same (as is true in the US or Canada); however, we can certainly vouch for Puerto Vallarta. With its beautiful climate and landscape of the Sierra Madres cascading down into Banderas Bay, its kind and friendly local citizenry, its proximity to the US and Canada, and its lower cost of living, what's there not to like in this wonderland south of the border? English, as a second language, is widely spoken throughout the city, the safety of expats is of highest priority for the authorities with the rate of violent crime at a fraction of that back home, corruption significantly reduced, poverty virtually eradicated, and the cleanliness of this city make it a favorite resort destination for millions of visitors from throughout the world. All of the "Big box" stores such as Sam's Club, Costco, Wal-Mart, Builders Square, Office Depot, nine beautiful signature golf courses, world class deep sea fishing, high speed internet, satellite TV, VOIP telephone service, etc. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 60 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

How to Make Your Kids Happy--Buy Real Estate in Mexico!

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 11:59:56 -0400

As parents, we all strive to raise good, productive, and happy kids. This goal is so important that there have been numerous articles and books written by psychologists and other experts in the field dedicated to the subject of raising children. Most of the experts agree that giving kids anything they want, when they want it, only leads to spoiling them. Instead of creating happiness, this practice all too often leads to disappointment; kids that expect every wish to be fulfilled eventually find insecurity, inability to make decisions, low frustration tolerance, low self esteem, disregard for others, unappreciativeness, and general unhappiness. Most experts suggest that gifts to kids should be made when they are deserved or when the kids are mature enough to be appreciative. The experts also agree that spending more quality time with your children is one of the key factors to raising psychologically healthy and happy kids. Sharing thoughts and stories during idle time, enjoying healthy activities out in the sun, and discussing plans, strategies, and goals creates lifelong bonds which lead to truly happy kids. Okay, so how long should we try to satisfy our kids? **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> condos]]> boomers]]> retirement]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 60 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA

Use a Buyer's Agent When Purchasing Real Estate in Mexico

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:51:18 -0400

So, you've reached a point in your life where you think that you've learned a little about business, finance, contract negotiating, real estate, etc. and have at least a layman's knowledge of law pertaining to each. Being that savvy, you might also be aware of the incredible retirement locations and values south of the border; furthermore, you might even be considering Mexico as your retirement destination. If so, you might as well forget everything you've learned and leave your law degree at home! Mexico, as beautiful as it is, has a somewhat different way of doing business and a completely different set of laws. Additionally, all legal transactions, including real estate transactions, are done in Spanish. Therefore, for those of you that may be considering locations in Mexico as possible retirement destinations, the following information should give you some insight as to how the Mexican real estate industry works, list some of the possible pitfalls, and most importantly, give you the guidance required to assure a pleasant and safe experience. In 1984, we made our first real estate purchase in Puerto Vallarta; a condominium in Mismaloya, about seven miles south of town. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 60 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

The Three Eyed Iguanas of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:31:49 -0400

The word "iguana"is the Spanish derivation of the Carib (Amerindian) word, "iwana"; a name given to a family of lizards that are found throughout the Americas. Iguanas are one of the five generally recognized infraorders of the lacertilian suborder of reptiles which includes all lizards. The Iguanidae family is only one of about 17 families of the lacertilian suborder; it includes the subfamilies of iguana iguanas (green) and spiny-tailed (black) iguanas which are abundant in the Puerto Vallarta, Mexico area. This entire order of reptiles has been traced back to Tianyusaurus who roamed the Earth during the Late Cretaceous Period, 65-100 million years ago. Iguanas have been used as a food source in Central and South America for the past 7,000 years and are still used as a source of meat; often referred to as gallina de palo, "bamboo chicken" or "chicken of the tree," because they are said to taste like chicken. Leather from the iguana hide has also been a prized material for centuries. Although green iguanas are in peril, they are not considered an endangered species; **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 60 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

The World's Only Natural Island Green

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:27:36 -0400

Some historians trace the sport of golf back to the Roman game of paganica, in which participants used a bent stick to hit a stuffed leather ball; however, according to the most widely accepted account, the modern game originated in Scotland around the 12th century with shepherds knocking stones into rabbit holes on the current site of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. The actual sport became officially recognized in 1754 when the Scots formed the organization known as the Society of St Andrews Golfers. Since then, the game has grown in popularity to the point where there are currently more than 32,000 courses worldwide, of which approximately 17,000 are in the United States. Golf is now rapidly gaining popularity in the newly developing countries like China where there are currently less than 300 courses, however hundreds more are under contract; either in the design phase or under construction. Since golf courses have 18 holes, the 32,000 courses would have a total of 576,000 holes; so let's assume there are 600,000 golf holes in the world. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 60 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Investing South of the Border

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:18:55 -0400

Let's start out by assuming that you're a pretty savvy investor; your 401k, IRA, or personal investments have kept up with the S&P 500 average during the past ten years and you've lost only about 35% of your life's savings! Did you realize that the Mexican Exchange Traded Fund (EWW) which represents the Mexican stock market, even though it was annihilated during the current recession along with all other markets throughout the world (but is recovering rapidly), has advanced by 200% during the same time frame? In other words, $100 invested in the S&P 500 in 1999 would now be worth $65, whereas if it were invested in the Mexican EWW fund it would now be worth $200. Please refer to the ten year graph in order to see the comparisons between these two areas of investment and perhaps you can speculate as to where might be the best market to place your next bet! One of the most significant reasons for this steady and rapid growth in the Mexican stock market (Bolsa) must be attributed to the policies of the new governing party that has been in control since 2000. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of more than 60 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

A Buyer's Market South of the Border

Sun, 26 Jul 2009 18:02:17 -0400

Fifty years ago, before John Huston brought Richard Burton, Ava Gardner, and Deborah Kerr to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico to film The Night of The Iguana", Vallarta was merely a sleepy little Mexican fishing village nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Madres along the shores of Banderas Bay on the Pacific Ocean. Although the population at that time was only a few thousand friendly natives, the magnificent climate and incredible scenery was so inviting that Richard Burton and Liz Taylor fell in love with the village (and each other!) and bought a couple of "getaway" homes on the hillside overlooking the city. After John Huston introduced Vallarta to the world in 1963 as a beautiful Paradise just two or three hours from most major US cities, the sleepy little fishing village gradually but consistently grew in size to about 100,000 residents by 1990. Since 1990, the greater Vallarta area has witnessed explosive growth as the Pre-Boomers started retiring and the Boomers began preparing for retirement. Today, PV is home to approximately 350,000 residents of which an estimated 50,000 are expats from the US and Canada. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 59 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Pre-Boomer Lifestyle on the Mexican Riviera

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

First, let's define Pre-Boomer; obviously it's before Boomer! The Baby Boomer Generation is defined as those born after World War II; generally between the years of 1944 and 1964. Consequently, the oldest of the nearly 80 million US born Baby Boomers are just now turning 65 years old. The Pre-Boomer Generation is typically defined as those born during the 20 year period prior to the end of WW II or roughly from 1924 to 1944. There were approximately 50 million people born in the US during this time frame. These Pre-Boomers are considered to be of the Silent Generation (a bit of a misnomer!); sometimes referred to as the Luckiest Generation. Lucky because they were born immediately after the Great Depression, were too young to serve in World War II and probably the Korean War, and too old to serve in the Viet Nam War. Since 95% of these Pre-Boomers have already retired, they are also lucky to be reaping the benefits of Social Security and Medicare; benefits that may not be available to many of the younger generations. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past twelve years. The mission of his series of 58 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Condominium or Villa for Retirement in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Invariably, when North Americans visit Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, they have such a good time under absolutely ideal conditions that they hate to leave. Upon returning home, many start planning their next trip to Vallarta and can only dream about retiring here someday. The fortunate ones, either currently retired or about to retire, often start thinking about how they can own a piece of Paradise and spend at least a part of their retirement in Vallarta. Many visitors interested in pursuing the idea of retiring in Vallarta will rent a condominium during their first extended stay, and while doing so, will experience all the benefits Vallarta has to offer, and will explore the market for condos and/or villas. Once they have determined that Vallarta will be their full time or part time retirement destination, they are ready to start considering which is most appropriate for them, a condo or villa. There are certain aspects of condo and villa ownership that are constant; **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Have You Seen Puerto Vallarta's Green Flashes?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Perhaps you're among those fortunate enough to have witnessed a green flash at the instant the sun sets; however for most, they've only heard of the phenomenon. One such area for viewing the green flashes is Puerto Vallarta, Mexico where, during the "high season" of November through May when the average daily temperature is 73Â°F with virtually no chance of rain, thousands of people religiously watch for this rare instantaneous event every evening at sunset. According to most physicists, green flashes involve physical optics as well as physiological optics. The factors contributing to the high frequency of green flash sightings in Vallarta can be categorized as follows: 1) Physical opticsâ€” By means of refraction and dispersion of the sun's rays, the various length light waves reach the eye at slightly different times and speeds. Light moves slower in the cooler denser air, hence the higher frequency light waves, i.e., those with the shortest wave length (green & blue), are refracted more than are the lower frequency light waves (red & orange). **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

The Intelligent Sea Turtles of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Sea turtles are very intelligent creatures of nature; they continue coming to Puerto Vallarta regardless of the swine flu scare, the border town drug wars, or the global recession! They don't visit Vallarta for its perfect climate, its eight beautiful golf courses, its world class deep sea fishing, its hundreds of fine restaurants, nightclubs and discotheques, its magnificent sunsets, or the colorful tropical flora and fauna in the surrounding Sierra Madre hillsides; they visit Vallarta strictly for its 35 miles of sandy beaches. However, the fact that they love the beaches around PV is only a small clue as to what makes the sea turtles so incredibly intelligent. Sea turtles constitute a single radiation that was distinct from all other turtles during the Late Cretaceous Period, the "age of dinosaurs", at least 100 million years ago. It's hard to imagine that approximately 65 million years ago during the CretaceousTertiary Extinction Event (KT Mass Extinction), the planet endured catastrophic events such as massive asteroid impacts and/or tremendous volcanic activity resulting in significant climate changes affecting all of the Earth's plant and animal life. Sea turtles were among the few species to survive these traumatic events and related climate changes. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

What Makes Puerto Vallarta Quaint?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Quaint, as defined by Webster and others, means unusual or old fashioned in a pleasing way, with a charming old fashioned quality, or oddly picturesque. Some will say that Puerto Vallarta is a quaint or picturesque city due to the thousands of whitewashed villas, condos, and other buildings nestled among the Sierra Madre hillsides surrounding Banderas Bay along the Pacific Ocean coastline. Others might attribute the quaintness of Vallarta to the many nearby inlets and coves where the old fishing pangas are docked with their resident pelicans waiting for dinner or perhaps to the beach vendors selling their colorful blankets, sculptures, and artwork. Viewing the crafts of local artisans while strolling along the seafront promenade, referred to as the malecon, or visiting the hundreds of curio and souvenir shops gives many tourists the feeling of being in a quaint little Mexican fishing village. For others, the optimum feeling of being in a quaint little Mexican village or relaxing in Paradise is derived from sipping margaritas or cervezas in one of the many beachfront cantinas or restaurants while watching the magnificent sunsets. Although the city has reached the size of St. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Think You're a Savvy Investor?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

So, you think you're a pretty savvy investor. Your 401k, IRA, or personal investments have kept up with the S&P 500 averages during the past seven years and you're up about 10% during that timeframe. Well, congratulations BUT, did you realize that the Mexican Exchange Traded Fund (EWW) which represents the Mexican stock market, advanced by almost 300%, or more than sixty times as much during the past seven years? Please refer to the graph below in order to appreciate the explosive growth pattern that Mexico has experienced, especially during the last three years. (Please see the graph for details) One of the most significant reasons for this steady and rapid growth in Mexico must be attributed to the policies of the new governing party that has been in control since 2000. Mexico has been governed by Harvard alumni during the timeframe shown above and will continue under the same leadership for at least another five years. The PAN party, led first by President Fox and currently by President Calderon, both Harvard graduates, has brought Mexico from a Third World Country to a Newly Industrialized Country standing in a matter of seven short years. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

The Last of the Obsidian Artifacts in Puerto Vallarta

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

More than 30 years ago during one of our first visits to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, while browsing through a small souvenir shop, we noticed a handful of small black objects high on a back corner shelf. They were covered with dust and obviously hadnâ€™t been touched for years. We asked the owner of the tienda what they were and he indicated that they were obsidian artifacts; insinuating that they were very old and that obsidian was quite rare and virtually approaching extinction. Since this was the first time we had ever seen obsidian and being quite naÃ¯ve, we thought they might be a good investment as well as nice conversation pieces, so we bought all he had; probably at his asking price! Before we learn about obsidian, we ask exactly what are artifacts? Archaeologists define artifacts as objects such as pottery, jewelry, weapons, projectile points, tools, ritual items, etc. that were made or modified by humans of prior cultures. In our minds, that meant that the small figurines that we bought were hundreds, if not thousands of years old and made of a very rare and unusual glimmering black glass-like material. Wow, what a find! **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Want to Find Treasure in the Sierra Madres?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Do you remember the 1927 novel, "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre", which was about a couple of down-and-out Americans that joined up with a crusty old timer to prospect for gold in Mexico? It was later adapted into a film by John Huston in 1948, who returned to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in 1964 to film "Night of the Iguana". The Sierra Madres have been and continue to be rich in mineral wealth containing vast deposits of gold, silver, lead, zinc, copper, and tin. The problem is; the majority of us North Americans can't do very much to prosper from or enjoy the benefits associated with these rich mineral assets. However, the Sierra Madres do possess another great asset that we can benefit from and enjoy; that is real estate! Now, we ask, where exactly are the Sierra Madres? Well, there are actually three mountain ranges in Mexico, all referred to as the Sierra Madres. The first is the Sierra Madre Oriental range that runs about 700 miles from north to the south on the eastern side of Mexico. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Why Are All Of Puerto Vallarta's Bougainvillea Flowers White?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Bougainvillea, a strikingly beautiful plant seen in abundance in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, derived its name from Louis Antoine de Bougainvillea, an admiral in the French Navy that encountered these plants in Brazil in 1768 and described their beauty to his fellow Europeans when he returned home. Bougainvilleas are rapid growing plants that produce white flowers year round in sunny warm climates and Vallarta perfectly meets their requirements by providing approximately 320 sunny days per year with an average annual temperature of 78Â°F. Being deciduous, they do fine without much watering during the seven month dry season in Vallarta from November through May, when there is virtually no rain. As thorny vines, they seem content growing up, horizontal or even hanging down and can reach out or up almost 40 feet. It's almost impossible to go anywhere in Vallarta without seeing bougainvilleas growing profusely. They are everywhere along the roadside, can be spotted on the Sierra Madre hillsides, act as potted plants or serve as ornamental shrubs around almost every casita and villa, are all over the golf courses, and are around all public areas of interest. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

The Influence of Mariachi on Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Mariachi music, quite obviously the heart and soul of Mexico to anyone that has traveled south of the border, frequently permeates the Puerto Vallarta evening air. Mariachis can be heard serenading women at weddings, special occasions such as quinceaneras (girlsâ€™ fifteenth birthday celebrations) and baptisms, Motherâ€™s Day fiestas, and at private parties. The mariachis are also often seen and heard in many of the restaurants and cantinas and can be found roving along the beachfront malecon and throughout public parks. The mariachis that perform at parties and special occasions are generally paid by the hour, whereas those practicing their trade in public areas, restaurants, and cantinas usually request a given amount of pesos per song. Other mariachis acting as street musicians or buskers simply play their beautiful music for the public enjoyment and appreciate the tips they receive. We all recognize the unique sound of mariachi music when we hear it, however few of us truly appreciate what differentiates mariachi from other music. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Afraid of Medical Care South of the Border?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Ten years ago, the fear of needing emergency medical or dental care while south of the border ranked close to the fear of running out of gas while crossing the railroad tracks; both had you calling for spiritual guidance! In 1997, shortly after we moved to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, referred to as PV or Vallarta by the locals, a friend of ours elected to have a substantial amount of cosmetic surgery done here in PV. At that time, there were a number of small hospitals and clinics in town, however only two that she considered. One was of the 50Â´s vintage and the other more like the 60Â´s because it had window air-conditioners in the three patient rooms. My son, a surgical veterinarian in California, would have been reluctant to practice his specialty in the other hospitals and clinics! The surgical procedure on our friend was satisfactory and although none of the nurses spoke English, the attention and care she received during recuperation were excellent. At that time, good medical care was difficult to find in Vallarta and if anyone needed major medical care, they would need to go to Guadalajara or fly to the States. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Interested in Deep Sea Fishing at its Best?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Picture this; itâ€™s a 75*F day in November, the sky is blue, and youâ€™re with your best fishing buddy, 20 miles out in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, in the center of the Mexican Riviera. As you peer across the water, you see thousands of birds feeding on millions of small bait fish as they are driven to the waterâ€™s surface by larger fish from below. With acres of bait fish breaking the surface, the entire area, as far as you can see, has an oily sheen and the smell of a fish factory. As thousands of dolphins are playfully flipping and twisting while feeding in this orgy and larger game fish are joining the birds in this feeding frenzy; itâ€™s time to strap yourself in and get ready for action! As ten year residents of Vallarta, weâ€™ve often had the privilege and good fortune to have been there and done it. If youâ€™re a fisherman, life just doesnâ€™t get any better. Before we go fishing, letâ€™s first check out the marina. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

Want to Learn Something in Your Spare Time?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Now that youâ€™ve finally retired and have some free time, perhaps you might be interested in learning some things that you previously never had time to learn. But first, you must decide where you want to gain this new knowledge and with whom you want to gain it. The last place in the world that might come to mind for taking classes in the subject of your choice would probably be some sleepy little Mexican fishing village! Back in early 1960â€˜s, Puerto Vallarta was just that, a sleepy little Mexican fishing village, as portrayed in The Night of the Iguanaâ€. Well, things have changed south of the border; Vallarta is now home to 350,000 inhabitants and growing daily. Of the 350,000 people, we can only estimate that 50,000 are North Americans. With tens of thousands of successful retirees in Vallarta, so too is an abundance of knowledge on just about every subject imaginable. Chances are, no matter what your area of interest might be, there are retirees in Vallarta that possess expertise in that area and are willing and anxious to share it. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .

World Class Fire Opals Mined Near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

We all know that Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is a world famous resort destination and retirement haven. We also know that just about all of the Mexican Riviera cruise ships make Vallarta a normal port of entry providing the visitors with numerous fun and exciting things to do, sights to be seen, side tours to be taken, beautiful beaches to enjoy, etc., but few tourists ever really get to know the area, customs, and local history. Puerto Vallarta is located in the state of Jalisco; the third largest state in Mexico with the Capital of Guadalajara which is the second largest city in Mexico. The greater metropolitan area of Guadalajara (including Zapopan, Tonala, and Tlaquepaque), has a population of approximately 4,000,000 residents, thus making it about the same size as Los Angeles, the second largest city in the US. Puerto Vallarta is the second largest city in Jalisco with a population of 350,000 people, nestled in the Sierra Madre foot hills along the shoreline of Banderas Bay on the Pacific Ocean. **End Summary** Topics: Puerto Vallarta]]> Mexico]]> real estate]]> buyers agents]]> retirement]]> villas]]> homes]]> condos]]> travel]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Scherrer has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 26 years and resided there for the past eleven years. The mission of his series of 57 articles pertaining to retirement in Puerto Vallarta is to reveal the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living conditions in Mexico. For the full series of articles regarding travel to and retirement in Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at PVREBA .