|
|
||||
|
|
|
|
The information herein is
the product of thirty-six years experience in Puerto VALLARTA and input from
a host of sources. Some is from returning customers who in relating their
appreciation often update or casually correct information for us. It has been
said by some people, who upon disembarking from the aircraft in PVEE,
believed that after having read this web page, they felt they were as
informed as those boarding, who had just spent a week or two there. Indeed,
before the redness of sunburn had given way to a mid-week tan, they were
becoming the source to consult, by the casual acquaintances they met on the beach.
It has further been said that "If you
don't save $100. in a two week stay, you didn't read this page." What
can I say after the above? Not bad testimonials, if I do say so myself.
Actually, this little guide got nominated for a "pluma de plata", a
prestigious award bestowed on writings about MEXICO by the Mexican Government
Tourism Office. Unfortunately, one has to have a circulation of in excess of
20,000 to be considered or maybe it's the atrocious grammar and spelling, but
alas a nomination is as far as it got.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Baby-sitters are readily available.
The maids are eager to make a few extra dollars or they know someone who
will. Remember Mothers, they were probably having children when you started
baby-sitting. Also consider they raised nearly ninety million so far, so
don't worry about Johnny or Mary while you're out on the town.
|
|
|
|
|
Please indicate as well as
your address at home the DESTINATION address on your baggage tag. CASA ANITA
and CASA CORONA DEL MAR KM. 0.5 #601, Carretera
Mismaloya (indicate the number of your suite) and VILLA SONIA and BUNGEE are
located at Panama & Costa Rica Street. For other suites, check for the
address on your voucher.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Banks used to give the
best exchange rate but currently the money exchangers and frankly our own
office are now the best place to change your traveler’s cheques or cash for
pesos. We have got in with one of the biggest exchangers Cambiare Centenario
who give us a wholesale rate that allows us to match the best outlets in
town. Don’t get too carried away, however, by
rates. Firstly with the Banks, the rate is published at 11:00 A.M. only, so
you can't change Canadian funds before, either cash or travelers cheques. If
you've waited through a half hour line-up (about the standard length of
time), you may be displeased. Consider the line-up time, the value of your
time before going to the Bank, or even a money changer. They all insist on
picture I.D. whereas we simply want your suite number on the back of the
cheque. We also have sufficient cash on hand and if we don't a quick
motorcycle run to the changer will see you with all the cash you will need. The change wickets are the next quickest
and when you calculate the small differences (if any) juxtaposed to the
amount that you're changing, the exercise becomes fruitless to pursue the
extra few centavos (100ths of a pesos). For Canadian visitors when the $CDN is
strong it is sometimes advantageous to change your money to U.S. Travellers
cheques first as you will receive more pesos in the long run even incurring
the exchange commission for two exchanges. Traveler’s cheques also receive a premium
over cash (change is not accepted at all) as the cost of them providing
security for the cash to repatriate it to a North American clearing house
(Dallas, New York, Los Angeles) is more expensive therefore, they give you
less. It makes sense when you think about it even though you think it's a
mistake at first! The Banks seems to exploit this more than the moneychangers
who seem to "blurr it" at least they did in winters of 1996 and
1997.
|
|
|
|
|
|
At the pool deck near the
main office we have installed a blackboard for use by guests to leave guest messages
as well as messages to the employees. Example: "anyone interested in
sharing a car rental Thursday, see John, Corona #2 or maybe fishing
Sat.?"," John and Marilyn will be hosting a cocktail party on Anita
pool deck 17:00 Wed." or "Who wants some of the fish I caught
yesterday?, see Adam in Anita 7". Also, lists of persons interested in
'ganging' for free transportation to the many tours is posted at the ANITA
POOL DECK board. If you are interested in going horseback riding Thursday
let's say; simply put your suite number and number of persons interested in
going on the board. If you get a
group of 6 people or more to book, we’ll supply the one way transportation to
your starting point. This blackboard is an excellent place to
vent your annoyance to any fellow guest who, maybe while influenced by too
much tequila the night before, neglected to exercise some restraint when
coming home, perhaps waking you in the process. Give 'em hell on the
blackboard. You can leave it anonymous if you like.... or?
|
|
|
|
|
|
If you break something we
would appreciate that you report it immediately so we can replace it right
away and also for the next visitors. Many of the items in the units are
limited in numbers and have to be ordered from up North. Hopefully you'll
understand that if you break a carafe for a coffee maker or anything else,
you will be responsible to pay the replacement cost. Key word, be careful and own up if
something is broken, as the maids are bound to report it or pay for it if
they miss reporting it and you leave without settling for the item. Towels, which are the innkeepers' nemesis,
will be charged if soiled beyond restoration or if lost. An embroidered towel
in MEXICO (Cambridge quality) is worth easily $120. pesos. There... that
should scare you. Also, please return glasses, openers etc. to the unit they
came from, especially after communal parties, or run the risk of a long check
out harangue. If you need some of them for your B.B.Q. best to use the plates
etc. provided and return religiously the items you "borrow" from
your suite. Understand that our tariff is based on
normal wear and tear and excessive abuse HAS to be charged. Remember, the
most expensive rate per person per day is less than $45, which is predicated
on a "transparent" passage of guests through the suite.
|
|
|
|
|
Stores are generally open
from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and normally closed from 2 P.M. to 4 P.M. Offices
usually follow the same schedule. MEX-DEV office hours are from 09:00 to
20:00 (Monday to Saturday) usually and may vary according to emergencies etc.
as many in Mexico do. Note any messages or variance on the blackboard
or on the office door itself. Sunday is "staff appreciation day"
and services are nil or very limited depending on arrivals and departures
only. Leave a message if you need something before the next indicated
opening. Even managers need sleep and time off, so please be reasonable and
relay requests at opportune times anticipating needs such as more beer, water
etc. In the case of emergencies the manager resides in Corona #8.
|
|
|
|
|
|
All the biggees are
represented and a reservation is a good idea but don’t prepay here as the
quoted price here is meaningless. Most of the companies have booths at the
airport but never many cars it seems, so you take pot luck. MEX-DEV has arrangements with NATIONAL CAR
RENTAL for a blanket 10% discount and periodically transient deals with other
firms. Many accept credit cards, in fact they insist on a credit card imprint
upon renting but will be amenable to a discount if cash is employed at
settlement. To insure getting the discount, ask us to handle the reservation
and instead of having to chase off by taxi to their location, we can have
them pick you up. Jeeps can be as much as $95.00 U.S. a day
(with insurance) but small Datsuns go at lower rates which vary and the cars
are all so-so. Insurance is pricey but well recommended. (if you have an
accident and there is blood apparent; automatically both parties are arrested
pending the inquiries and bond postings which an insurance company will do).
This is the law! Another "law" is if you are involved in an
accident with a taxi, you lose regardless of what happened. We also have some "non
commercial" cars for "loan" for a donation. Ask the desk.
These are much cheaper but discretion is the byword.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The authorities discourage
beggars in the streets in Puerto Vallarta as census has indicated that many
Norte Americanos are troubled by the sight of beggars and feel compelled to
either shun or give to them. The sight of a young or older mother holding an
obviously ill child and waving a slip of paper, which is in fact a
prescription which she has no money for, is a far cry from a guy in front of
the liquor store back home strumming a guitar. Certainly when juxtaposed, the
prescription money is the sure winner. The moving of the bus depot far out of
town, indeed a kilometer further than the airport entrance, has alleviated
the problem of having to 'deal' with many transients who arrive in town and
knowing nobody, is forced to beg for a few pesos to get a meal and subsequent
bus fare possibly. Just as back home, you have to ask how needy is this
person or is this a lifestyle. Your heart and your flinch factor will have to
be your guide. There are over ninety million people in
Mexico and of course the majority are living in what we would call severe
poverty. It is obvious you can't help everyone and take some solace that the
very fact that you chose Mexico as your vacation is a help to the population
as a whole. If you do however feel a need to lend a helping hand, and it's
hard not feel that way in the face of so many people who have genuine need of
a helping hand, then consider the most deserving of all, that of the orphan
children. Fortunately, the family bond is so strong in Mexico that
abandonment is almost unheard of. Accident and other factors however do leave
the least able to fend in need. I'm happy to say that a fellow Hotelier who
founded the Tropicana Hotel in 1948 and expanded his empire to dominate a
goodly portion of the famous Los Muertos Beach area of Puerto Vallarta,
founded the CASA HOGAR Maximo Cornejo Quiroz, A.C. Ailing himself, and
finally succumbing to his medical problems, his memory will live on in his
generous gift in August of 1993. Some of the children have come by way of
local safety authorities. Others are channeled through the D.I.F social
services arm of Government. Some come from the parents themselves looking
after the welfare of their children and requesting assistance of CASA HOGAR
until they can resolve the critical home situations that keep them from
properly caring for their children. CASA HOGAR is a non-profit organization.
The Board of Directors A.C. (association civil) promotes different activities
to assure that the basic needs of CASA HOGAR are met. Monetary funding comes
primarily from private foundations of both Mexican and foreign people who
have seen the need and who have taken an interest in supplying that need.
Many of the hotels and tourist restaurants donate food and other basic
necessities. The goal of the association is to promote the integral
development of the child and make him/her a productive member of society despite
their situation. The following aspects are addressed:
nutrition, health, psychological needs, religious teachings, basic education,
and physical education. They publish a pamphlet listing ways people can help.
Here are some: Monetary donations-cash or cheque payable to CASA HOGAR Maximo
Conejo Quiroz, A.C. They are located ironically just beside the new bus
station. Other ways are a visit to talk and spend some time with these
children or teach them a few words of English, play or invite them on excursions.
Items that are constantly sought after are: Children’s’ clothing, personal
hygiene items, furniture, foodstuffs, medicine, toys. Please, no expired
items or those needing batteries or requiring assembly or repair.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Clothing is certainly not a
problem as the sun shines every day. Therefore shorts and tee-shirt tops are
the order of the day. At night slacks and open shirts or blouses are
comfortable with or without socks for the men and a dress perhaps for the
ladies. Comfortable shoes are a must as the
cobblestones are pretty but murder on high heels. A light sweater for the
outdoor restaurants especially Le Bistro or Mister Pepe's in December to
March. All restaurants in the valley are excellent places to experience the
famous 'adiabatic' effect. If you were disappointed in the Bay of Fundy's
Reversing Falls or the Moncton 'BORE', try this. Take shorts and two bathing suits and
plenty of suntan oil, although this is available in Vallarta, it is more
expensive to buy down here. For footgear, get something with open toes. The
famous huaraches made with leather and soled with truck tires are great once
you break them in. I frankly have adopted the rubber thongs and although
workmen’s comp would have a fit, it's de riguer amongst the workers on
construction, believe it or not.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Speak to the staff if
minor, such as light bulbs burnt out or the like. If you have any more
serious complaints please advise the management at the office at CASA ANITA.
Please contact us directly, so we can correct the problem as soon as
possible. Read carefully the "part two
orders" posted in the suites and titled "Rules of how to make your
stay more enjoyable". If you are in doubt about anything ask Annette,
Bill or Sonia. Being an apartment hotel, we supply some things, while others
are either not available or are charged for. If in doubt, ask. For instance
we supply toilet paper at ANITA CORONA del MAR but not at VILLA SONIA.
Likewise coffee filters. Your suite might have a holder for paper towels but
we don't supply those, for example. The hospitality package is just that - to
get you launched - so please don't ask for supplements. The idea is that once
you have been briefed you can go and buy the things you may need for the
remainder of your trip. Granted things like sugar, pepper, salt etc. do get
left behind by guests and if you're the unlucky one to find the empty shaker
well..... Dish soap is not supplied but the maids have their own, hoping you
will leave your dishes so that they are assured a tip. If you have a serious complaint please
voice it at the time. If you wait and go to your travel agent with it he/she
will have to forward it to us down in Mexico where the decision will be made
anyway as to how the situation will be handled, so please speak up if
something is bothering you WHEN you are bothered. The hope is that we can fix
it right away and you will be happy. Apart from our two nemeses, namely the
abundance of steps and of course the ambient noise of the neighbourhood, we
are sensitive to making your stay as pleasant as possible, so speak up if
something is bothering you and we'll do our best to rectify it. If you have any comments or
suggestions, we also have a suggestion box on the door of the main office.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The monetary unit is the
peso. Centavos still exist but one wonders why they bother, as they are
meaningless now what with $11+ pesos to the U.S. dollar at this writing. You
can forget the centavos frankly, as inflation has rendered them useless.
Consider that it takes one hundred centavos to equal one peso, and eight
pesos (800 centavos) to make less than a Canadian dollar. In spite of high double digit inflation
(but declining rapidly) the last two major devaluation's produced an
imbalance (in our favour) which should serve as a clarion call to tourists in
search of a "value vacation". The Government, which is trying
desperately to hold the line, is gambling and quite frankly needs another
1983 type tourist year, although the "controlled devaluation (a few
pesos a day) is eroding the value, as inflation is outstripping this
devaluation, so Hurry! Actually since November 1996 the pesos was
allowed to float on the money markets and after Chicago closed out a large
short sell in early 1996 it tended to stabilize at roughly $5+ for CDN$ and
$7+ for the US$ and stayed relatively steady through all of 1997 until the Asian
flu upset world markets and the Canadian dollar lost a dime to the U.S. The
pesos faired even worse in the late summer of 1998 where the US dollar
claimed over ten pesos, and the Canadian garnered a high of 6.3. It has since
climbed a bit more to just over $11 pesos for the US and just over $8 pesos
for the Canadian dollar. This means that MEXICO should enjoy a bumper year of
tourism at the expense of Florida and Hawaii. What to take with you? Anyone traveling
anywhere should carry at least 20 one dollar U.S. bills with him/her and
maybe three twenty U.S bills as well. Sixty to one hundred American dollars
in small bills is ideal. That's all the cash I carry on me usually, the rest
is in U.S. or Can. Traveler cheques. Currently U.S. travelers cheques yield
more pesos even after a double change so the argument of what to take is
academic presently but that might change with a dramatic decline in the CDN$
(Remember where you heard it first). In that instance, I would take Canadian
when I'm just going to Vallarta and take U.S. if going to other destinations
in Mexico where the Canadian dollar is not so well accepted as it is in a
resort city like Vallarta. Actually, at press time, it is still cheaper to
change your Canadian currency to American before you leave and thence to
pesos WHEN you arrive and as you need them. In spite of the two changes, it
comes out a little better but don't get to psyched out about this as the
differences are minute although it may LOOK grand in pesos. The smallest common bill is a $20. peso
note, followed by a fifty, one hundred, two hundred and a five hundred note.
Coins like the new "tooney" introduced in Canada made of composite
bronze and silver/nickel alloy come in one peso, two pesos five, ten and
twenty. A fifty pesos coin (currently worth $6 CDN.) exists but is not
circulated much, as it is like silver dollars, they tend to hoard them. This
was bound to change as it used to take forever to count five hundred dollars
into Mexican currency. (Another good reason to change with the desk).
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Canada)* If you leave
CANADA for 48 hours or more, you can claim an exemption of $200., including
liquor and cigarettes. After an absence of seven days, you can bring in up to
$500. CAN. worth of goods, duty-free, as many times as you are away the seven
required days. Certain goods may not be imported into
Canada. These include endangered species of animals, firearms, and many kinds
of food products (such as some fruit). The Canadian dollar is strong relative
to the Mexican Peso. If you shop abroad, you can still bring home a bargain.
Sometimes it pays to import items even if you have to pay duty, especially if
the item is much more expensive in Canada than abroad or unavailable here. Items CAN be shipped separately but they
must be declared upon your return as part of your exemption with the balance
calculated upon receipt at customs. Prior to now, goods from continental
North America had to accompany the traveling passenger to be eligible for the
exemptions. If however they are not prohibited items they can be shipped and
entered subject to duty. A call to your local customs officer PRIOR to
traveling will clarify this and give you the tariff for calculating duty to
guide you in establishing whether or not it’s a good deal. Remember you are
subject to laws of the state and country you land in even if you are in
transit. With regards to bringing back
"extra" liquor it is strongly suggested that you don't try to
"slip one or two by" as the penalties for this activity have just
been scaled upwards. First you lose the booze, you pay the amount you should
have paid in duty, excise tax, G.S.T. etc times 60%. Actually I've always
suggested that you forget trying to beat the system and be content with the
ONE freebee. However, a long conversation with a customs
official seemed to support the following: Apparently you can import nine
bottles (your one free exemption deducted from the $300. Canadian value
exemption plus eight others) on which you would pay duty etc. as follows. The
calculation for duty is convoluted and involves a three tiered application of
factors. One is excise tax (higher on wines so watch out) a factor of 11.258%
on alcohol by volume (so hard liquor is more expensive than liqueurs for
instance) plus a category for duty. You add this to the cost of the bottle
(converted from pesos to dollars - you must keep your bill) and apply 7%
G.S.T. and to this you add the Provincial liquor board tax of $5.28
currently. So how does this stack up? Well I arbitrarily reckoned that you
could probably procure a bottle of Kahlua 1 liter for $10.CDN and applying
the above it came out to $3.16 duty, 0.93 G.S.T. plus the $5.28 for a total
of $9.37 which you would pay to Customs upon entry. This means the bottle
stands you less than $20. and at last look in a B.C. liquor store they wanted
$33.+ for a 1 litre bottle. GOOD LUCK whatever you do, but don't smuggle!
|
|
|
|
|
|
Our departure tax in Canada
went up (JAN 1, 1991) to $40.00 CDN. and again in 1995 to $50. minimum. It is
listed as a separate item at the bottom of your ticket. The increase is as a
result of rising costs and especially terrorism, so they tell us. The
attendant security measures that the governments must sustain are the reasons
given for these "departure taxes". In the past when you left Mexico their
equivalent tax had to be paid again and it is currently $18.00 U.S. nowadays
because of the delays at check in and the necessity to have change etc the
scheduled airlines are following the lead of the Charter operators and the
return departure tax is now incorporated into the ticket also. But you're
still not off the hook. The charter companies which don't land in the U.S. or
who remain in the quarantine areas finish up at $74.CDN. If your airline
stops in the U.S. you pay a user fee of $5. U.S for each way as well as
agriculture processing, customs and immigration handling etc. This also will
appear on your ticket as it is prepaid. In Canadian funds this translates,
using ALASKA AIRLINES our preferred year round carrier from the Pacific
Northwest, to paying the carrier about $112. CDN total taxes. Hold on it can get worse. If your itinerary
includes a side trip to Guadalajara or Mexico City expect to dip into your
pocket for another $5. U.S. or equivalent for the domestic departure tax.
This is not applicable if you are in transit and resume travel within a 24
hour period. If you stop over more than 24 hours the chain is considered
broken and you pay again. HEY ...don't shoot the messenger. I'm only
telling you how it is. I am as upset at these new fees as anyone. Firstly, it
adds to the overall package prices which can deter some buyers, if in fact it
exceeds the commission rate your travel agent receives. And to top it all
off, WE in the business have to track and file reports for all these fees and
we don't get any commission for this activity, but we sure hear about it from
the customers. Some relief is on the way and at last word, as of November
1998, the charter taxes will be $28-$29. CDN and the scheduled carriers like
America West, Alaska etc. will be about $70. and it will include the Mexican
departure tax as well. You must have proof of citizenship if you
are Canadian and carry a letter from your spouse (ex or not) if accompanied
with children under eighteen years of age. Birth certificate or passport is
ideal. Driver’s licenses are NOT good enough. Recently we received a memo
that landed immigrant status or resident status and proof thereof were
acceptable, for non Canadians but this is in addition to a valid, current
passport. Some countries’ citizens are prohibited entry to MEXICO, so call
the Consulate in Vancouver at 604-684-3547 for up-to-date information. NOTE
they close for lunch. (Siesta). Oh, and don't forget the special fee (the
highest in the world) for the Vancouver Airport Authority. That's extra too.
|
|
|
|
|
Discos / Night clubs |
|
Located on the
South side of the Cuale River, ROXY's has live Reggae, Jazz, Blues and Rock
and Roll! On the next block,
SENOR FROGS has special “contests” on certain nights. EL TORITO sports bar offers ladie's
nights on Fridays and Saturdays:
$75 pesos for all you can drink National drinks as well as special
sports events and great ribs! Along the
Malecon, there are several nightclubs like the new HILO that just opened a
couple blocks down from the ZOO bar.
The ZOO BAR where the stuffed
animals are NOT in the cages but the patrons are...opens late and goes until
dawn. CARLOS O’BRIANS is
probably the oldest party place around and hasn’t lost any popularity!
Restaurants/discos or let's face it, "meeting places" where you
shout at each other to talk are part of the lure of Puerto Vallarta and the
two best are Carlos O'Brians and Andale's just down from Casa Anita. A Hot
Spot is typical of why people rave about PVEE and come back time and time
again. Hormone accelerators I call 'em. Many have cover charges but MEX-DEV
management frequently has "no cover" passes for the "in
places" which we bonus to purchasers of tours. These are limited and
hard to get. A few blocks up from the Malecon, on Morelos St. you can
also find a variety of bars which cater more to the locals. La CANTINA has typical Mexican music and is a
favorite with the locals. Just a few blocks down, you can find the more chic
DE SANTOS with dancing on the main floor and an outdoor lounge on the top floor
for a quieter atmosphere. La
REGADERA offers Karaoke. The old CITY DUMP which changed to X.O.'s
then DIVA is now PACO PACO, a gay night club. The Los MUERTOS area on OLAS ALTAS street
has adopted boulevards and "street seating" which have made this
the "centro nocturna" now, much to the chagrin of the cheap HOTELS
that dot the surroundings. A neat spot along this strip is ANDALES which
offers 80’s and 90’s music. A better one is the ROXY. It’s on Av. Vallarta
just south of the southbound bridge near the MARIACHI LOCO - also a fun place
and definitely Mexican in flavour.
|
|
|
|
|
Male (Spanish speaking
only) is Dr. Efren CALDERON. tel. 222-0933 or 222-1859. (He was a little hard
to get for a while as he was the MAYOR of Puerto Vallarta). Actually the
first son is a doctor and does all our paperwork for people wanting to get
married. He speaks good English (his name is EFREN Jr.) plus he has three
very effective fishing boats which we use frequently. Female is Dr. Irma Gittleson (English
speaking) her clinic number is 222-1252 and residence is 222-1329. She
actually lives almost across the street. Either of them can be contacted
through the ASSOCIATION of VALLARTA DOCTORS at 222-8889 or 222-1645. If you
need a doctor let us know and we'll make things happen. Emergency numbers appear herein and several
business cards are located on the corkboard near the black board adjacent to
the office. Many drugs which require a prescription here are sold across the
counter for little money. If you are on daily medication you might check this
out. The general advice of most physicians I have spoken with, shun the
practice of ingesting drugs in anticipation of would be ills. Montezuma has got over his revenge and is
now in partnership with CORONA selling beer. The stories of
"yester-year" live on unfortunately but the new truth is that only
a few, and the deserving, get sick nowadays in modern Mexico. For the ones
who still fear getting sick, eat yogurt daily and papaya. If you feel
somewhat queasy at some point, take a spoonful of Pepto Bismol every four
hours til it passes. If it gets worse, see a doctor. The myths about MEXICO like "don't
drink the water" are frankly silly. The water has been certified potable
for the last four years. Even the cruise ships take on water in Puerto
Vallarta in deference to Los Angeles. How about that?
|
|
|
|
|
|
In the last few years this
business with "duty free" has de-generated to being a deal on
cigarettes and booze and perfume. Certainly on imported booze the duty free
shop visit on the way in is a good idea. This applies especially to scotch drinkers,
as imported liquor is very dear indeed. However for scotch drinkers try a
make of rum, yes, I said rum, it's called "RON CASTILLO" and it is
amber and distilled in a different manner which frankly is appealing to both
rye and scotch drinkers, even bourbon drinkers don't find it offensive. It’s
a great alternative and it's what I bring North now, as I've grown fond of
it. Unfortunately, I heard in March 87 that the company had gone bankrupt
(God knows how a booze company can do that) and that supplies are diminishing
rapidly. Many of my friends are wearing black arm bands as a result! The
truth of this is that they had a warehouse fire which put pressure on stocks
and because it is aged it took up to 1991 to recover. Thankfully, things are
back to normal. Most good well-stocked bars will have it, as will most liquor
stores with a decent selection. Back to duty free...The Duty Free Shop sells ANAIS ANAIS and other perfumes cheaper (after conversion) than any shop I've run into and in fact only just beats London Drugs when XMAS specials are in effect (in other words the free goods calculated). Buy cigarettes if you're still addicted to that filthy habit and a bottle of scotch on the way down and find some Castillo rum when you run out. On the way home buy your KAHLUA in a downtown store and pack it properly in your suitcase. The difference, if any, in lugging a "hand carry" with a pair of crocks in it, ain't worth the difference.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Be careful to not overload
circuits with curling irons and toaster concurrently. Common sense should be
exercised (don't plug the kettle in while two appliances are in use).
Otherwise, everything is the same as home (110v-60 cycle). With the new spade plugs we've encountered
difficulties in being able to insert these into the older style (in fact the
current ones sold don't work easily if at all) so we have changed most of
them (the ones in strategic places - bathroom etc) with good ole Canadian
ones. These are even CSA approved, even if the rest isn't. Careful with the
remarks on this however as 'yours truly' did most of the wiring (at least the
part that is 'close' to CDN specs). Fortunately, power outages and even surges
are passe, and we no longer leave candles in the rooms as people use them for
romantic effect rather than their designed purpose of being for emergencies.
The infrequent power outages usually occur in summer and are associated with
severe weather. We still have candles for emergencies so ask if you're lucky
enough to experience a power failure in Modern MEXICO.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Using hotel facilities: the
liberal policy of major hotels allowing the use of their public facilities to
"outsiders" is based somewhat in the 'Federal Zone' law governing
the public area of beaches. If the Hotels were to build a gate they would
have to build it quite a bit further back than what they purport to 'own' but
the trade-off is the public area becomes just that. No one abuses this and
the hotels seem content to sell a sandwich or drink or two. If you patronize
them via some purchases and a decent tip no one will ever bother you when you
use their bathrooms, pools etc. At peak times however chairs become scarce and
it’s normal that they try to serve their guests first. Many restaurants in the major HOTELS are on
our recommended list. Certainly some of the swim up bars and large pools are
an attraction to contrast to your "Mexican immersion". At least one
afternoon spent this way is a way of deciding which style you enjoy the most
for next time. Let's face it, these HOTELS aren't ugly, in fact they are
rather nice. The thing is they are what you already know. They're the same as
back home and on vacation it's neat to experience new things and revel in the
changes, which allow you to resume the humdrum of daily life once again, once
refreshed. That's as close to the definition of what a vacation is as this
writer can get.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Canadian
Consulate 293-0098
|
|
|
|
|
|
Don't be wary of bringing
children with you. In a MEX-DEV villa, which all have fridges, you can afford
it. The cost of a coke (the liquid only) is about $0.40 whereas in a Hotel
....? You can be fiscally electrocuted using the mini bars in many of the
traditional hotels. At MEX-DEV we're your friends and we treat
you accordingly. Be sure to have a notarized letter from the un-accompanying
spouse or proof of a legal separation with custody, as MEXICO is a very
family conscious country which abhors being used as a haven for custody
battles. Indeed they combat this by being very inquisitive and rigid on these
matters. Consult with the Consulate in Vancouver or Seattle at the following
phone numbers. YVR-604-684-3547, SEA-206-433-5692. For a copy of a 'tested' wording call our
offices and request a sample notarial letter for underage children entering
Mexico.
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Mexican G.S.T.) Effective January
1, 1983, Mexico instituted the Impuesto al Valor Agregado which taxes 15% on
all goods and services except surface transportation. Residents and tourists
are expected to pay this tax- NO ONE IS EXEMPTED. Think of IVA as a 15% Goods
& Services tax which is exactly what it is. This tax is usually included in the marked
price of your purchases. Mex-Dev accommodation rates do not include this tax.
In addition there is a further 2% for a total of 17% applicable to Hotel room
taxes in Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. Consider this when you compare room
rates while you are there. If you aren't convinced that you got the
best deal all round, speak to me as you've overlooked something which will
change that complexion, I'm sure. Comparing something with 15% included with
something that is going to have it added later is not fair and adulterates
the comparison by 30% so ASK!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For fine jewelry the best places
are the stores with good lighting and fancy displays. Most of these have been
in business for a long time and they can't afford to use inferior materials
such as Alpaca instead of .925 silver. Many street vendors will offer this lesser
metal with the genuine stamp on it while others are legit. If you aren't
familiar you had better shop the stores. There is a large jewelry store on
the Malecon specializing in GOLD called Pacific Jewelry. For repairs to jewelry I suggest Cisernos a
small store east on Aquiles SERDAN about five or six blocks east of RIZO's.
This man has been in business as long as I have been coming to Vallarta so
don't worry about him swapping diamonds for cubic zirconiums when you have a
valuable ring cleaned or repaired. Actually, he died this spring but his
brother, who has worked with him almost as long, is now in charge and I've
known him at least twenty five years, so don't worry. Vendors abound on the beach with elaborate
cases jammed with desirous baubles that may or may not be genuine silver or
whatever. If it is cheap enough (and yes, you can haggle with them) and you
like it, buy it. Who cares if it’s genuine or not? Ask questions and don't
get too hung up on haggling. If you like it, buy it; it may be gone to Toledo
in someone else’s purse if you hesitate.
|
|
|
|
|
We have imported locks on
most of our doors. The blanks to make duplicates are scarce in Mexico and
don't work well, so we import the blanks also. An advantage to this is that
it is difficult to make a duplicate of your key if you leave it laying
around. Because of this, we ask for a deposit on arrival for your room key
which we return to you when you depart. Also the number on the key is just that, a
number and doesn't relate to MEX-DEV or any of the house names. If it's lost,
better it stays lost than be found by the wrong element and used
clandestinely. Also on the other side of the key is the code for the entry
door to Casa ANITA. This code can be changed and is from time to time. You
will be advised of a change if it occurs while you are residing in Casa
ANITA.
|
|
|
|
|
Keys |
|
We have imported locks on
most of our doors. The blanks to make duplicates are scarce in Mexico and
don't work well, so we import the blanks also. An advantage to this is that
it is difficult to make a duplicate of your key if you leave it laying
around. Because of this, we ask for a deposit on arrival for your room key
which we return to you when you depart. Also the number on the key is just that, a
number and doesn't relate to MEX-DEV or any of the house names. If it's lost,
better it stays lost than be found by the wrong element and used
clandestinely. Also on the other side of the key is the code for the entry
door to Casa ANITA. This code can be changed and is from time to time. You
will be advised of a change if it occurs while you are residing in Casa
ANITA.
|
|
|
|
|
I know that when you arrive
off a charter flight, reasonably well oiled, and find yourself lugging a
suitcase up the "many" stairs in the middle of the night – (just
remember the $50. you saved by agreeing to this ungodly hour of arrival) it
doesn't give you the privilege of waking up the household by loud talk in the
stairways. Check the blackboard for *^%. ^## (adjectives describing your
arrival) the following day and see how many "Buenos Dias" you get.
Please respect your neighbours, use common sense. We levy a charge for our Manager to be
present to greet you if your arrival falls outside of 09:00 and 22:00 hrs. Because a late
arrival on a charter is usually accompanied by a late departure, we offer two
options, 1) pay the extra night in the suite, and 2) vacate the unit by
12:00, the check out time. You can surrender your key but avail yourself of
the combination lock common bath / change / storage room near the pool at Corona del Mar. The third choice is to pay for a late
departure, which is $20. US and will take you up to 16:00 hrs, only if the
suite has not been rented and therefore occupied already, based on your
scheduled departure of 12:00 hrs. Plan ahead but beware of the alternatives
when you book. Regrettably there is no provision for this at the SONIA side
so either reserve the extra night or indulge a fellow tenant who is staying
on to store your stuff. Please understand that we are a union
business and the overtime rates are triple, which means (and the late
charters are inevitably on week-ends) we would lose the ability to rent your
suite until Monday if we allowed a late check out on Saturday. (Maids are off
from 17:00 hrs Saturday until 09:00 Monday.) If your suite is not prepared
for the next arrival in the one hour remaining on Saturday, we cannot,
without heavy overtime charges, get that unit ready until Monday the
earliest. If the workload doesn't permit, maybe not until the afternoon of
Monday so therefore only in time for a Tuesday arrival. (Most flights from
the North arrive in the afternoons fortunately). Frankly, the maids don't
want to come in on Sunday - many travel 30 minutes by bus daily to come to
work. Please avoid embarrassment by not
requesting indulgence in this area, we have to be firm in this area for the
reasons stated above.
|
|
|
|
|
|
While we have washing
machines on the premises the staff are under threat of dismissal to
"loan" or agree to do laundry for guests, I'm sorry to have to say.
We have however provided a guest laundry
situated near Corona # 2 which has a coin operated washing machine and gas
dryer. We sell soap and give the appropriate coinage to operate the machines
at the office. First come, first served. Indeed you have two options, you can
wash your own clothes in our laundromat or take them down on Olas Altas
Street at one of several laundromats and leave them and the attendant will do
them for you. Careful of delicate or expensive things
though, soaps etc. are very powerful in Mexico. Closer to the VILLAS SONIA is
another LAVANDERIA on Brazil to the right when you come down the famous hill,
and yet another on Morelos near ALLENDE Street.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Most of the passage ways
are lit with lights controlled with a photocell or timer. Many sentinel
lights (ones that turn on with the infrared sensing of a 'warm body'
approaching) are installed at strategic locations around our properties. These serve a threefold function. One, they
allow a guest to see his / her way to their dwelling, and, two, they provide
a security deterrent for intruders or would-be thieves. Finally the third
element is that they conserve on energy as they only light when someone is
present. Common sense, turn the lights off at night when you might think you
are the last to go to bed and especially those in your own suite. The ANITA/CORONA pool area lights are
regulated to go off at 23:00 exactly, which should be your cue to be cautious
of your fellow guests trying to sleep. The copious use of louvered doors and
open tile work to allow cross ventilation through the suites has the downside
feature of allowing noise, even simple conversation and laughter, to disturb
others trying to sleep. This is our most common complaint, that of being
disturbed by other guests partying. Please.... please.... please be
considerate. Fans are much healthier than air
conditioning (which only two of the suites have) and are utilized during the
months of May through October. May stands for a medium setting and it is only
in the hottest months of August and September that you may need the full
blast. October stands for "off" as most probably during the course
of this month they will become unnecessary. Remember, in November the
blankets go back on the beds usually about the second week. In the meantime
remember this, that a fan only moves air, and therefore serves no purpose at
all when you are out of the room. NO VIRGINIA, it will NOT be cooler when you
return if you leave the fan on while you are out.
|
|
|
