ADIP March 2008 by ADIP

paradise another day in

March 2008 / 56

M E X I C O

A RT H I S TO RY F O O D R E A L E S T A T E ENTERTAINMENTSPORTS MUSEUMSGALLERIES TRAVELARCHITECTURE DESIGNBUSINESS E C O N O M Y R E A L E S TAT E L I S T I N G S R E A L E S TAT E N E W S R E A L E S TAT E L AW R E A L E S TAT E F I N A N C E BOOKSCOMMUNITY C U LT U R E P E O P L E SHOPPINGSOCIALEVENTS RESOURCESCLASSIFIEDS

M E X I C O

VERY PLAYA LA ROPA. VERY VICEROY. Exquisitely appointed and serviced resort residences on Zihuatanejo’s most sought after location.

Experience beachfront home ownership and bask at the center of Playa La Ropa’s magic mile. While you are in Zihuatanejo, please call (755) 55 55522 for your personal introduction to our vision.

Void Where Prohibited by Law. This adver tisement does not constitute an offer to sell real proper ty. The information provided in this adver tisement is strictly for informational purposes and shall not be construed as an offer in any jurisdictions where prior registration or other advance qualification of real proper ty is required, including, but not limited, New York and New Jersey. Responses to inquiries in such jurisdictions may be prohibited or limited. Renderings of the anticipated improvements are based on current development plans which are subject to change and which are under no obligation to be completed.

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paradise another day in

EDITOR - PUBLISHER

Catherine Krantz info@adip.info COLUMNISTS - CONTRIBUTORS

Contributors: Patrick Corcoran Agustin Galindo John Glaab Michel Janicot Steve Johnson Epitacio Hans Nystrom Tracy Novinger Linda Neil David Roman Porcayo Nancy Seeley Priyanka Sharma Lisa Sheppard Maura Taylor Donali Mendez Tello Elizabeth Williams DESIGN

Advertising Agency jld picassojld@hotmail.com jorge@adip.info Office: Tel. (755) 554-6525 Cel. (755)104-5057 WEB DESIGN & HOSTING Zihrena Sistems La Ropa, Zihuatanejo webmaster@zihua-ixtapa.com (755) 554-0719 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

elcome to Another Day in Paradise

Around here, we tend to shamelessly gush, exude, ooze optimism and positivity about our little piece of paradise. We go on and on, and really it’s not all pep talks and daily affirmations a la Stuart Smalley: I am smart enough, I am good enough, and gosh darnit people like me. Although let’s be honest, that’s a big chunk of it! Hmm, is it a promotional philosophy with a capital P, nothing more than confetti and glitter tossed out, as if in an Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo carnival parade, or is this a place that is truly special and fraught with potential? Some months I wonder. I imagine anyone who has taken a leap of faith, (moved to Mexico perhaps?), started a big daunting project or put their all into a creative endeavor, can relate. Zihuatanejo has its fair share of adventurers throwing caution to the wind, letting the sweeping bayscape and natural beauty inspire them into doing something big, something bold, something new. World-weary cynicism or no, there is just something devilishly inspiring about crazy fools following their dreams...that I just can’t resist letting inspire me. Inspire me into one

more month, one more year, one more earnest attempt, getting swept right along with them. You read about it in books, see it in movies (I’d say it’s a cultural obsession) and best of all, you catch it in the sparks flying from the eyes of your entrepreneur friends. I love to see that. “I want to start a revolution!” I had a friend tell me while waving his hands and rhapsodizing about his new business venture. If you can resist such affable enthusiasm, you are an older soul than me! He was talking about food, I am talking about earnest effusiveness, and why it can really pull you along… (Or, make you scowl and sneer—all depending on your own exact present location on your own personal learning curve.) Me, I’m up here, sitting somewhere near the top of world, looking out over the beauty of Zihuatanejo bay spread out below me, shimmering under the moon, with the lights of town sparkling like gems off to my right, and I’m all of a sudden perfectly peaceful. And I’m wondering how anyone could ever take this for granted. Perhaps they need to climb the hill, see the view. Until next time,

(755) 554-6525 space is limited, deadline for materials and payments is the 1st of the month previous publicidad@adip.info SALES OFFICE Juan N Alvarez 34 Col: Centro, Zihuatanejo, Gro SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES Check out our web page for more info: www.adip.info WE WELCOME ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPH SUBMISSIONS info@adip.info FOR GUIDELINES

on the cover: Vanilla Photo by Epitacio

www.adip.info

March 2008 / 56

8 History

34 Notes from the Consulate

Pedro Infante 10 Food

Ingredients of Mexico - Vanilla 16 Intercultural Communication

Tú or Usted 18 Classifieds 20 Community

Get Involved: Community Project Directory 22 Community

Sailfest 2008 26 Community

36 Upcoming Events 38 Travel Tips

Travel Tips for a Safe Trip 42 Home & Garden

Choosing an Architect 44 Real Estate Law

2008 Tax Law Update 46 Real Estate News

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Real Estate Fair Real Estate Calendar 48 Real Estate Listings

For Sale, For Rent

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Carnival 30 Z-Scene

ADiP 8

By Patrick Corcoran

oday’s best example of a heartbreaking Latin actor/singer/ breaker of molds is Jennifer Lopez, without a doubt. (Salma Hayek, start singing and the prize is yours!) But Lopez was certainly not the first; the tradition dates back decades. Among the earliest performers to reach J-Lo-esque superstardom was one Jose Pedro Infante Cruz. Pedro Infante, as he is better known, was one of the (if not the) most famous actors of the Golden Age of Mexican cinema, in the middle decades of the twentieth century. Known both for his hundreds of recorded classics and his turns in more than 60 films, Infante remains a household name today, more than 50 years after his tragic death. Infante was born in what was then the isolated beach hamlet of Mazatlán in 1917. From an early age, he showed talent as a performer, but the small towns of early-twentieth-century Sinaloa were not a big enough venue for his ability.After marrying María Leon, whose social connections would later help vault Pedro to stardom, Infante took off for the brighter lights of Mexico City. Mexicans remember Infante for his classic roles as one of the “Three Mexican Roosters,” as Jorge Negrete, Javier Solís, and Infante are known. Infante’s introduction to Negrete particularly was a key moment in his climb to the top, as the latter was the preeminent Mexican actor in the 1940’s. Through a friend of his wife’s, Negrete and Infante were introduced, and Negrete agreed to recommend Infante to a movie producer. The stage was set for his rise. Infante became a constant presence in the Mexican movie theaters in the ‘40’s, releasing 24 movies over the course of the decade. He also

began to solidify his reputation as a crooner; his rendition of romantic boleros made him a favorite across Latin America. Among the most lasting classics one must place Corazón Amorcito, Te Quiero Así, and El Durazno. In 1943, Infante landed his first starring role in La Feria de las Flores. That same year, he also released his first album, a moderately successful record titled Mañana. His reputation as a golden-voiced charro (a traditional Mexican cowboy) spread like wildfire. Over the next decade, Infante staked his claim as the king of Mexican cinema. Other actors like Negrete, Tin Tan, and Cantinflas all did a great deal to fuel the growing popularity of the Mexican cinema, but no one outshined Infante. The dozens of

movies and scores of songs captured the hearts of millions of Mexican ladies. After close to a decade of collaboration, Jorge Negrete died in 1952. Although there existed something of a public competition for the mythical title of most popular Mexican actor, the two men remained close friends throughout their time working together. Infante grew into his role as the foremost Mexican thespian, and has since surpassed Negrete as the dramatic icon of the mid-twentieth century. As a romantic star, Infante enjoyed uncontested supremacy in the five years following Negrete’s death. He starred in 23 films in that half decade and jerked tears from countless eyes with

his heart-wrenching ballads. Cantinflas, the sultan of comedy in the ‘50’s, and Infante combined to form the foundation of the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema.The two stars inhabited largely separate spheres; Infante’s forays into comedy were rare (and, truth be told, not particularly funny).Whereas Cantinflas injected humor into every interaction, now matter how serious or tragic, Infante went down as smooth as a milkshake. Not all of Infante’s heart-thievery was theatrical. He developed a well-earned reputation as a ladies´ man, which both fed into and was borne out of his appeal as an actor. While he was married to María Leon, he had three children in four years with the dancer Lupita Torrentera. He also had a daughter by the actress Irma Dorantes. Infante worked with another beautiful woman, María Félix, in the 1957 picture, Tizoc. (As far as I know, his relationship with Felix, the girlfriend of President Miguel Alemán and the widow of Negrete, was strictly platonic.) The film is not as well known as some of Infante’s other pictures, but it is a romantic gem with a compelling storyline about the love between a poor Indian and a society lady. Sparks flew between Infante and co-star Félix, who was known as one of the most beautiful women in the world. As two of the leading actors in Mexico, teaming Infante with Félix was both logical and successful. Alas, the pairing was not to be repeated, for Infante only made one more movie. Infante’s death in a plane crash in April 1957 stunned Mexico. The actor himself was piloting the aircraft, and five minutes after take off in Mérida, Yucatan, it fell to the earth. Infante and two friends who were flying with him perished. The outcry from his fans was both immediate and long-lasting. The distraught radio announcer broadcasting the news shouted “It cannot be! Pedro Infante died!” A number of statues and shrines (most prominently in Mérida, Mazatlán, and Mexico City) were erected in his honor. The anniversary of Infante’s death remains a major celebration to this day. Fans dress up as Infante in his most famous roles, and sing the ballads that he made famous. The fiftieth anniversary of Infante’s death, celebrated just this past year, was a news event slightly less significant than the arrival of Martians in Mexico City. One of Mexico’s ubiquitous gossip magazine kicked today’s celebs off of its cover, devoting it instead to a smiling image of Infante over a black backdrop. The Panteón Jardín shrine in Mexico City welcomed hundreds of mourners. Relatives sang Infante classics, and talked lovingly of his favorite movies. The newspapers all ran stories with headlines like, “The Icon of Icons.” Fifty years later, that remains as true as ever. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Patrick Corcoran is a writer and teacher living in Torreón, Coahuila. He struggles daily to impart English skills to local middle school students, and feels confident that any reader who finishes one of his articles has learned more from him than 90 percent of his adolescent charges. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

ADiP 10

By Priyanka Sharma

s many of us know, Mexico is the birth country of some of the most basic food items to be found in homes all over the world. These include beans, chiles, coffee, chocolate, tomatoes and maize, amongst several others. Part of the explanation as to why such a profusion of food grows in Mexico could be its fertile soil and favorable environment. In fact, the fertile soil and climatic conditions of Mexico make it one of the easiest places in the world to grow virtually any plant. One of the most frequently used, yet quintessentially Mexican product known to man today, is vanilla. Vanilla has been frequently described as a spice, and it is said to be the third most expensive spice in the world, after saffron and cardamom. It is the basic flavoring product for many sweet and confectionary items, as well as for baked goods. The word vanilla is a derivative of the Spanish name for the spice which is vainilla or literally,

the little pod. In prehispanic Mexico, vanilla was called tlilxochitl or black flower. Vanilla is the only fruit- bearing orchid variety out of the hundreds found the world over. Vanilla grows as a vine, and needs the support of trees around which it winds itself. Interestingly, vanilla pods are harvested while they are still green, immature, and incredibly, completely odorless. They are then boiled and left in hot and humid conditions - a processing stage called “sweating.” The sweated pods are then dried, by which point they become dark brown to black in color, somewhat harder in texture and fabulously aromatic. There are three main varieties of vanilla.  The first is the Bourbon or Madagascar vanilla, which is the vanilla grown in Indian ocean islands.  The second variety is the Mexican vanilla, the native vanilla planifolia. This is the original vanilla from its birthplace.  The third is the Tahitian vanilla, which is

from the French Polynesia, and comes from vanilla tahitians, which is a distinct species that mutated from the original vanilla planifolia. Historically, the first known people to have cultivated vanilla were the Totonac people who inhabited the Mazantla valley in present day Veracruz. In fact, to present day, some of the world’s best vanilla comes from the town of Papantla in Veracruz. When the Totonacs were conqurored by the Aztecs in the 15th century, they started to send vanilla pods as tributes to the Aztecs at Tenochitlan. Like most other plants native to Mexico and Central and South America, vanilla was introduced to the Old World by Christopher Columbus. Out of all the Europeans, it was the French who quickly developed a taste for vanilla and started to grow it in Madagascar and Mauritius. Madagascar is currently the leading producer of vanilla and accounts for roughly half of the entire vanilla production worldwide. More than 90 percent

of the world’s vanilla comes from the three leading producers - Madagascar, Indonesia, and China. One of the earliest uses of vanilla was to flavor chocolate - which was an Aztec tradition that the Europeans started to follow. Gradually, vanilla began to be utilized for flavoring desserts and baked goods.Vanilla is also one of the ingredients of the drink Coca Cola. In fact, the economy of Madagascar was negatively affected in 1985 when the ‘New Coca Cola’ was introduced, as it utilized a synthetic vanilla flavoring instead of a natural one!!

Vanilla is used primarily in three industries - food, perfume and medicines. In the food industry, vanilla is usually used either as a whole pod, as a natural vanilla extract (a liquid in an alcoholic solution) or as a paste, which is made by grinding whole vanilla pods with or without the addition of sugar and other additives. Amongst the non-culinary uses of vanilla, the production of perfumes, and the flavoring of cigars and liquors are the most common.Vanilla is also purported to have some medicinal properties. The Aztecs considered it to be an aphrodisiac, and the later Europeans even believed that it could cure fevers. The essential oils of vanilla are frequently used in aromatherapy.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Priyanka is a mother, trained social worker and a food and writing aficionado. She has worked in local and international NGOs in India and Mexico. Priyanka has recently completed a cookbook entitled Indian Cooking for Mexico, which is available in both English and Spanish. She is currently working on a series of articles on regional cuisines from her native India, as well as on a cookbook on Mexican food. Her interests are travel, cooking, reading and cinema. She can reached at priyanka.mex@gmail.com

A good place to store your vanilla pods is the sugar canister. The scent permeates the sugar lightly and gives you vanilla sugar to use in your coffee and your baking. It has also been my experience that a single vanilla pod can be reused a few times. After having scraped the seeds from the pod for a recipe - for instance the one I give below - you could use the pods to infuse milk or water (just simmer together for 10 minutes) for other recipes. You could also use them to make stronger scented vanilla sugar - by thoroughly drying out the used pods and then burying them in sugar. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Raciel Gaffare

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250 ml mild honey 2 vanilla pods 1 stick cinnamon 2 cloves Cut the vanilla pods into halves lengthwise, and scrape the seeds into a pan. Add the spices and honey, and bring the mixture to a simmer over a gentle heat. Simmer for about 10 minutes on very low heat, and then leave to cool in the pan. Pick out the cinnamon stick and cloves and discard. Store the honey in a jar in the refrigerator and use as needed over pancakes, toast, ice cream, and other desserts. Vanilla Scented Indian Style Cheesecake (Bhapa Doi) serves six 1 liter natural unsweetened yoghurt 1 can condensed milk 1 whole vanilla pod OR 1 teaspoon vanilla

paste ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 6 teaspoons vanilla and spice honey (optional) Place a coffee filter in a large strainer. Pour yogurt into the filter. Place in the refrigerator and allow to drain for about eight hours or until it is the consistency of soft cream cheese. Add the condensed milk to the strained yogurt and mix thoroughly. Cut the vanilla pod into half lengthwise and scrape the seeds out with the tip of a knife and add to the yoghurt mixture (or mix in the vanilla paste) together with the vanilla extract, and mix to combine. Grease a baking tin or a glass baking dish (eight inch round works well). Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and bake at 180 degrees centigrade for about 30 minutes, or until the mixture is firm and the top is lightly browned. Take out of the oven, cool, and serve sliced into wedges at room temperature. Drizzle each slice with a teaspoon of vanilla and spice honey, if desired.

By Lisa Sheppard

hhh vanilla: most people think of it as the safe choice at the ice cream parlor. How wrong could they be! What is safe about a flavor that comes from the tiny seeds of the elongated sex organ of a tropical orchid grown in steamy jungles? The Totonac people of Mexico believe the flower to be the transformed daughter of their Fertility Goddess, who gave herself passionately to her earthly lover in this corporeal form in order to be with him and his people for all eternity. It is the erotic scent most men prefer, so much so that a very famous temptress recently based her signature perfume on its allure. Vanilla’s heady aroma is capable of encouraging reluctant buyers into parting with large sums of money. Just read any article on how to sell your home and it will suggest that you have vanilla flavored cookies baking in your oven when the clients arrive. One of the most expensive cooking ingredients, second only to saffron and black truffles, it is usually steeped in bourbon or plain alcohol to extend its powerful flavor, thereby enabling us to use it everyday in our homes. Something most people take for granted. Living in Mexico is a dream for vanilla addicts as real vanilla extract can be bought here for a pittance. But one must be careful and

sniff before buying as some of the less than reputable makers will extend its power using banana flavoring, something I cannot abide. The wrinkled, brown, slightly sticky beans are standard offerings in most markets. Montezuma accepted them as payment for taxes, and used them to flavor his chocolate. Queen Elizabeth, the so-called virgin queen, loved their intense flavor and scent. perhaps vanilla soothed her frustrated libido. To me, there is nothing as sensuous as creamy custard speckled with tiny black vanilla seeds. These seeds are so heavy with flavor that they drop to the bottom of even heavy cream and must either be frozen or thickened with eggs or starch to hold them in suspension. I keep the dry split pods denuded of their fragrant seeds pushed into a jar of coarse sugar for at least a month to scent and flavor the crystals. I stir them into my coffee, sprinkle them on top of my Crema Quemada to form a thin pane of vanilla flavored toffee to crack through with my eager spoon. Despite its full intense flavor vanilla comes through most brilliantly in recipes with few other competing flavors. Crema Quemada con Doble Vanila Mexicana 3 cups of full cream; here in Mexico it is necessary to ask for crema de batir natural, as

most cream is sold as acificada, their version of sour cream. ½ cup vanilla sugar, plain sugar is fine but not as intense 3 whole eggs 2 egg yolks; please check your egg source as it does not pay to use runny pale eggs in this recipe (see side note). 1 whole Mexican vanilla bean or 1 tsp real Mexican vanilla extract; now if you are going to all the trouble to create this truly outstanding dessert, for Pete’s sake do NOT use artificial vanilla! A Small Blow Torch, this is the fun part! Pre-heat your oven to 300F, or if you are above 5,000 feet, 325F. Pour the cream into a heavy saucepan. Then take a sharp paring knife and slit the vanilla bean in half lengthwise; this is easier than it sounds. Carefully scrape the tiny beans out with the point of the knife depositing them into the waiting cream. If you are using vanilla extract, do not add it at this point. Pour the sugar and the eggs into another bowl and whisk them until they are light and foamy. Heat the cream on the stove over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until small bubbles form around the edge and steam lifts off the surface. Now SLOWLY, pour a thin

By Lisa Sheppard

stream of hot cream into the eggs and sugar, whisking continuously to keep the eggs from curdling. Continue to pour and whisk until the eggs and cream are incorporated. Return the mixture to the saucepan pouring it through a fine sieve to remove any sugar lumps or clumps of egg albumen and place over medium heat. Stir the cream mixture with a wooden spoon until it thickens lightly and coats the spoon like thin translucent custard. This is the point where you would add the vanilla extract. Remove immediately from the heat and ladle into ramekins or custard cups, about 1/3 -1/2 cup per container. Do not make the mistake I made on my first try and scrape the bottom of the pot to get that last drop. It is much better to use the last as a topping over fresh berries for a cook’s quick pick-me-up later. Place the cups into a baking tray and pour hot water into the tray until it reaches two-third of the way up the side of the cups. Carefully place the tray in the oven without creating any tidal waves. I managed to slop hot water in the tops of my cups half way through the baking once and was forced to carefully scoop out the water with a teaspoon. They didn’t seem to suffer much but I did not serve those to my guests. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until they form a skin and seem to wobble very little when tapped. Most recipes I have read tell you to insert a toothpick and wait till it comes out cleanly, but I think that makes the custard dry and gummy. Remove them from the tray immediately and place them on a cooling rack until they are lukewarm, then transfer them to the refrigerator for at least two hours to chill. Remove them just before serving and sprinkle a fine, even layer of vanilla sugar over the top. Light your blow torch and apply the flame in a circular method to the sugar, melting it until it turns light brown. If you have done this right the spoon should crack through a thin pane of caramel and spoon out chilled custard that is divinely smooth and flavored intensely with vanilla.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lisa Mower Sheppard lived for many years in Berkeley, California where she absorbed and experimented using the mix of flavors from the lively restaurants and markets of its multi-cultural community.  Lisa and her husband Ian now own a small organic farm near Lake Zirahuen, Michoacan.

GOOD EGGS! A good egg yolk should be an intense bright gold yellow and should sit proudly atop a firm contained white. The age of your eggs can be checked by simply suspending them in a bowl of water: if they lie down on their side they are fresh, if they point upward they are at least a week old, and if they float, abandon them immediately, and buy new ones. This could be a frustrating exercise but an enlightening one, I once bought 18 eggs and all but two floated. Arghh! It made me change markets. © Brian Daly - Fotolia.com

ADiP 16

“When in doubt, always use Usted.” By Tracy Novinger

eople often wonder just when they should use tú and when they should use Usted to address a person as “you” in Mexico. These seem like simple words, but in the Spanish speaking world their cultural use is complex and significant. Furthermore, conventions can vary in different Spanish speaking countries. The misuse of tú and Usted can both offend and cause misunderstanding. Fortunately, there is a simple rule that one can use to play safe. In addition, there is an explanation of the roles these words play in communication that affords one insight into Mexican culture. A simple explanation is that tú is informal and Usted is formal. To be safe, one should err on the side of the formal: always use Usted when in doubt. This will ensure that one will never be wrong when Usted is required. The people to whom one is close enough to say tú will be understanding and won’t care much which pronoun one employs with them. Mexican culture is steeply hierarchical. Persons can rank high on the social ladder by reason of family lineage, power, education, and wealth, to name a few factors. The upper classes demand deference from those they consider to belong to lower social strata. “Superiors” maintain an authoritative distance to “inferiors,” even though they may employ formal courtesy. Mexican communication style both reflects and reinforces the culture’s hierarchy. In contrast, individuals in the flatter hierarchy of the United States seek to decrease hierarchical

difference with their communication style. A speaker will use forms of address that demote the rank of persons at higher echelons and promote persons at lower ones because their culture teaches them to emphasize the equality of all persons and minimize status difference. When an American addresses a Mexican at a high social level in a familiar manner, s/he offends by not recognizing the person’s status or maintaining proper distance; when s/he treats a person of a more modest station in life as an equal, it often confuses or embarrasses the person because they perceive a clear status difference. In Mexico, communication style recognizes that power is, in fact, distributed unequally. The difference in hierarchy in Mexican and U.S. culture is one of degree: all societies have, of course, a pecking order and courteous forms of address. As a consequence of Mexico’s hierarchy, in addition to the use of Usted, the use of titles is important. Use Señor and Señora with everyone except close friends if one does not know their title. However, anyone with a university degree is a Licenciado/a. The title for an attorney is always Licenciado/a. An architect is Arquitecto, an engineer Engeniero and a teacher Maestro/a. If, for example, one goes to an attorney’s office one would ask for Licenciado Gutierrez rather than Señor Gutierrez. One’s use of the proper title in this manner will be very well viewed even if one is speaking English. Likewise in conversation, one would address a person as Arquitecta Sanchez or Ingeniero Gomez.A doctor is Doctor, as in the United States.

Tracy Novinger’s Book: Intercultural Communication: A Practical Guide which focuses on U.S.-Mexico communication issues is available for sale at the Another Day in Paradise office in central Zihuatanejo, on Juan Alvarez #34, next door to Aeromexico, and at Coconuts Restaurant on Pasaje Agustin Ramirez No.1. Internationally you can purchase through www.utexas.edu/utpress or www.amazon.com

The use of tú can indicate intimacy. It is used in families and among close friends. It also can indicate rank. Adults address all children as tú, but children should address adults as Usted unless they are close family members. Not so long ago (and in a few families today) many children were required to address their parents as Usted, similar to the use of Sir and Ma’am still used by children when speaking to their parents in some of the English speaking world. Usted is employed both to indicate respect and to maintain distance. Employees and subordinates address their employers, managers and supervisors with Usted. Some employers or managers may use tú with employees to indicate that they outrank them, and the employees thus addressed will acknowledge this difference in status by responding with Usted. When a superior addresses a subordinate with Usted, this may indicate respect or it may be intended to maintain social distance. One should not use tú to address staff in offices that one visits. Nor should one employ tú to seem more “friendly.” What Americans call friendliness, which is communicative warmth, Mexicans convey in many other ways, even while using Usted. Usted is generally used by all when addressing a very old person of any social level, and one Mexican professional commented that the poor of Mexico have so little in life that at least one can give them dignity by addressing them with Usted. Some people use tú with domestic help, especially if these employees have

worked with the family for many years. But it is generally considered bad form to address the domestic help of someone else’s household with tú. In venues such as dinners and social gatherings, middle class and upper class adults who know each other will often speak with tú to recognize equal social standing. Younger people more easily address each other with tú than older generations. Usted also serves to maintain distance between men and women. In fact, if a man inappropriately addresses a woman as tú and she allows it or responds with tú, it may indicate she is accepting or encouraging a type of attention she may not want. In some cultures, this situation requires a direct rebuke. In Mexico one can say politely that one prefers to use Usted, but Mexican culture places a premium on harmonious relations and prefers indirectness even to courteous confrontation. One way to handle this situation, especially in front of others, is for the woman to continue to use Usted, and let the man’s lack of manners speak for itself.

In summary, here are some tips for effective and harmonious communication between Mexicans and Americans: 1.- Always be courteous and polite. 2.- Use Usted unless one is absolutely certain that tú is appropriate. 3.- Overly “friendly” behavior can interpreted as disrespectful or naïve.

4.- Liberally use titles such as Señor, Señora, Maestro, Arquitecto, Engeniero, Licenciado. 5.- Americans need to remember that polite communication in Mexico is more formal than in the Unites States. 6.- Mexicans should understand that Americans are culturally trained to communicate in a familiar or “friendly” manner that is intended to please and not to offend.

To the long list of the many pleasures of living in or visiting Mexico, one can add the general courtesy and good manners of Mexican people from all walks of life when they interact with others. And if some Mexican customs seem different, then viva la diferencia. © Tracy Novinger 2007. See also “Intercultural Communication: A Practical Guide” by Tracy Novinger, available through www.utexas.eduutpress or amazon.com. Focuses on U.S.Mexico communication issues. About the Author: Tracy Novinger has an M.A. in Communications and has written two books on intercultural communication published by UT Press. She speaks English, Portuguese, French and Spanish, and has some knowledge of other languages. Ms. Novinger was born on the island of Aruba where three generations of her family lived. She then went to school in Portuguese, in Brazil from age ten until she began university studies. After graduation, she lived and worked in French-speaking Tahiti for nine years. She has a home in Mexico and travels extensively. She has, in fact, “lived” intercultural communication her whole life and has the ability to step in and out of several cultural worlds.

ADiP 18

Books

Furniture

Mother Nature/My Nature, Owen Lee’s new book on ecology now available through amazon. com. Prisoner in Paradise, also available through amazon.com, for delivery in Zihuatanejo, call Owen 755-102-7111 or owenzih@yahoo. com.

FOR SALE: Beautiful Coconut Palm, Custom Bar, all Stainless Interior! Built-in Coolers, Plumbed for a gas grill, seats 6. “One of a kind craftsmanship,” 2 meters by 1 meter. A stand-alone business, if you have the local! 1,000.00 USD OBO. Phone 755-553-2884

Intercultural Communication, A Practical Guide. Find ADiP featured author, Tracy Novinger’s invaluable book at the ADiP office in downtown Zihuatanejo, Juan Alvarez #34 next door to Aeromexico, 200 pesos each.

FOR SALE: 2 Round Glass-top dining room tables, with bamboo & wicker base, 8 chairs. Good condition. 4,000 pesos, or 2,500 each. Tel. 755-554-6525.

Employment Be Part of the team that makes this magazine. AD SALES- ADiP magazine needs ad sales representatives for Ixtapa-Zihua, and Patzcuaro, Uruapan, Morelia, Michoacan. Flexible hours, full and part-time positions, salary plus commission. Must be dependable, reliable, professional. Bilingual a plus, own transportation a plus. 755-544-8023, info@ adip.info. COMMUNITY EDITOR – Ideal candidate will be Bilingual with magazine or newspaper experience, superb organizational, management and writing skills, a sincere interest in Mexico, and the philanthropic aims of the publication. 755-544-8023, info@adip.info.

FOR SALE: Stackable Washer & Dryer – never been used. Electric washer, gas dryer. 8,000 pesos. 755-554-6226 Investment and Business Opportunities DEVELOPER INVESTMENT/JOINT VENTURE OPPORTUNITY Playa Blanca Resort Development - Low density master plan featuring vernacular and ecologically friendly design of villas and resort amenities. We have recruited the development team and have obtained the necessary approvals to proceed. Please contact us at 312.925.9238 or playablanca@sbcglobal.net for more details. Language Schools

IXTAPA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. Non-denominational English language service every Sunday at 10am at Villas Paraiso in Ixtapa. Contact Ron 755-554-5919 or John & Joan at 755-553-1618 for more information.

¡LEARN SPANISH! Centro de Idiomas Mesoamericano - David Roman, M.A. (University of Georgia, UGA). Over 26 years teaching Spanish as a second language. Address Edif. O Dept. 101, Villas del Pacifico (next to Bodega Aurrerá) Tel. 112-2042; cel. (755)110-8075; E-mail: davidroman88@ hotmail.com www.mesoamericano.org, www. paseosculturales.com

ZIHUATANEJO CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. Non-denominational English language service every Sunday morning in Zihuatanejo, Contact John &Betty 755-5547178 for more information.

¡SPANISH IN MAGICAL PATZCUARO! Live the language in one of the most magical places in México, on beautiful Lake Patzcuaro. At CELEP we believe that learning Spanish should be an enjoye. Classes from

Fellowship

1 week to 1 month. Centro de Lenguas y Ecoturismo de Pátzcuaro, Navarrete 50 Centro, Tel. [01] (434) 342-4764, celepatz@ prodigy.net.mx, www.celep.com.mx Recovery “12 STEP HOUSE” English speaking recovery groups. Directly across from the biblioteca (library) on Cuauhtemoc, AA- Monday and Friday 6:00 PM NAWednesday 6:00 PM. Additional meetings November - April. For more info call Tom (755) 112-1919 or Mike cell 044-755-1044544 Services LEGAL CONSULTING - Buying Property? Condo Associations? Starting a new business? Forming a Mexican corporation? Immigration papers? If you need assistance please contact Stefano Maci, Attorney at Law, fluent in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Italian, at s_maciattorney@prodigy.net.mx or call 755111-1813 locally, or from the U.S. 011-52-755111-1813. MASSAGE: Martha, next to Museum Zihuatanejo, at the main beach, next to Sunset Restaurant. Sport and Relaxing Massage. Get a wonderful experience with a daughter of an elder Mexican midwife and Healer.Phone: (755) 110 5490, (755)124 3571; Martha Peñaloza Galván Tours HIKING TOURS – Discover beautiful local trails with knowledgeable guide. Tours can be arranged for fabulous coastal views, native or medicinal plants, bird watching, or can include trips to hidden beaches for picnics and snorkeling. 1/2 day or full day trips available. Horseback riding tours also available. Call Ignacio, 044-755-559-8884, 755-544-8315, English spoken.

Informes y contrataciones: Calle Juan N. Alvarez # 34 (a lado de Aeromexico) Col. Centro Zihuatanejo Gro. Tel. (755) 554 6525 Cel. 755 110 4738 y 755 104 5057

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Community Directory Fundación Rene Ferguson A.C This Foundation was set up in memory of Rene Ferguson and its objective is to support able young women, who are suffering financial hardship, through a degree course by assisting them with the expenses of college tuition and books. Donations to the foundation are tax deductible in the United States through The Rene Ferguson Foundation. Please contact Erica Islas at La Quinta Troppo or at mexdrop@prodigy.net.mx Comisión para la Defensa de la Pesca Deportiva A.C. A group comprised of sport fishermen and sport fishing captains concerned with the conservation and protection of their natural resources. They support projects of conservation, preservation, catch and release in sport fishing, the ill effects of over fishing and education on these themes. For more information you can contact Comisión para la Defensa de la Pesca Deportiva A.C., founder and president, Capt. Ruben Lopez, at 755-108-6506, 755-554-6839, or by e-mail: ruben_lopez43@ hotmail.com The Netza Project The Netza Project is a U.S and Mexico registered non-profit organization that works to advance literacy, education and economic opportunity for all, in particular supporting the vision and expansion of The Netzahualcoyotl School and Kindergarten for Indigenous Children in Zihuatanejo, which today educates over 400 migrant, native and street children - many of whom speak Nahuatl, Mixteco, Amusgo and Tlapaneco, and who otherwise might not be in school. The Netza Project also advocates equality and social justice through dormitory shelter, health programs, women’s micro-finance, adult literacy, scholarships, and international volunteerism by fostering respect for diversity and celebrating native culture. See www.netzaproject. org; contact Lisa Martin info@netzaproject.org; US cell 508-284-0078; Mexico cell 044 755 10 01173. Por Los Niños de Zihuatanejo, AC. is a community-based, non-profit association, founded by the Zihua SailFest, to provide educational opportunities to economically disadvantaged children in Zihuatanejo. Por Los Niños supports learning and school repair projects at more than 12 under-funded primary schools and kindergartens. Contact: Lorenzo Marbut, home: 755-554-2115, cell: 755-102-4463, Lorenzo@porlosninos.info The Rotary Club is a world-wide social organization with the purpose to help those in need. In Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo there are three groups: Club Rotario Ixtapa - Nuevas Generaciones New Generations Rotary Club Ixtapa Hotel ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Presidente Inter-Continental in Ixtapa, Phone: (755) 553-0018 Club Rotario de Zihuatanejo, A.C. Zihuatanejo Rotary Club Hotel Catalina, road to Playa La Ropa, Zihuatanejo, Phone: (755) 554-9321 Club Rotario de Zihuatanejo Tercer Milenio Third Millennium Rotary Club of Zihuatanejo Hotel Riviera Beach Ixtapa Phone: (755) 554-7645 S.O.S. Bahia, A.C. Local non-profit group dedicated to the rescue and long-term preservation of the ecological integrity of the Bay of Zihuatanejo. Promotes environmental awareness, advocates the sustainable development of the bay’s surroundings, and works to stop water pollution and the destruction of wildlife habitat in and around the bay. Collects and distributes information about the issues concerning the bay and organizes periodical beach cleanups. Gladly accepts volunteer contributions and donations. www.sosbahia.org, info@sosbahia.org. SPAZ-HKP “Helene Krebs Posse” Humane Society of Zihuatanejo (Sociedad Protectora de Animales de Zihuatanejo Helene Krebs Posse) Offers sterilization clinics, free adoptions, educational out reach programs, treatment and rehabilitation for wounded, homeless or abandoned animals. Sells t-shirts and memberships to raise funds, gladly accepts donations. Located at Casa Marina, next to the basketball court facing the bay in central Zihuatanejo. Casa Marina, Paseo del Pescador #9, Col. Centro 40880 Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, México, Tel. (755) 554-2373. www.zihuatanejo.net-spaz, animales.zihua@hotmail.com Zihuafest A.C. - The Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival Now in its fifth year, the Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival brings international musicians to Zihuatanejo from all across the world. Ten days of live music in Paradise includes many genres and including two free-to-the-public concerts, one for the school children of Zihuatanejo and the other for the city of Zihuatanejo. The Festival is a registered not-for-profit association in Mexico and a percentage of festival proceeds go toward supporting Music, Art and Cultural Education in the community. Sponsors, Donors, and Volunteers always needed. www.zihuafest.info, info@zihuafest. info If you don’t see your organization listed here, please send us your mission statement and contact information to get on the list, info@adip.info.

The Scholars: Leticia Rebolledo Crecencio, Mónica Alejandra Pérez Sánchez, foundation President

David Ferguson, Leticia Sánchez García, foundation Treasurer Ericka Islas, Guadalupe Valdez Robles, and foundation Secretary Rodrigo Campos Aburto..

By Michel Janicot

stablished in 2003, the Rene Ferguson memorial foundation’s financial goal is dedicated to provide scholarships to local women who lack funds to pursue their university training. The awards amount to 25,000 pesos or about 2,000 dollars per candidate per year. The institution was founded by David Ferguson, the owner of the boutique hotel La Quinta Troppo, in memory of his late wife who strongly believed that motivated, needy high school students should be encouraged to further their education. As previously noted in the January 2006 issue of this magazine, the foundation asks the city’s school principals to recommend their most outstanding women scholars with exceptional scholastic achievement and who “have shown perseverance in overcoming difficult circumstances to continue their education.” The foundation´s plans, based on its current financial situation, is to have up to five students attending school at one time, starting a new scholar until there are five- when one graduates, another begins. The scholarships cover tuition, books, transportation cost and a small stipend for out-of-pocket expenses.

Approximately 1,500 dollars a year are spent on each woman. The first scholarship was awarded to Leticia Sánchez García in 2005, who went on to receive her diploma in business administration from the University of Petatlán. Currently, Leticia is employed by this magazine, as the six months off from studying to get business experience that is a requirement of her course (the foundation does not provide any monetary assistance while students are interning or earning income). She has now started her last two years at Zihuatanejo’s Technical Institute. Other highly motivated students funded by the foundation include Leticia Rebolledo Crecencio, and Guadalupe Valdez Robles, who are enrolled in accounting programs, and Mónica Alejandra Pérez Sánchez, who is studying business administration. The foundation hopes to help create many success stories by fostering young professional women in Zihuatanejo; they are presently looking for business and industry mentors to become friends of the Foundation, by providing assistance, internships and counsel to scholars in need. Any contribution will be most gratefully appreciated. Contact David Ferguson or Ericka Islas at Troppo@prodigy. net.mx for additional information.

ADiP 22

By Catherine Krantz Photos by Steve Johnson

008 was another big year for Zihuatanejo’s favorite philanthropic festival. Every year sailboats converge on Zihuatanejo Bay and bring with them a big-hearted boating community. Partner that with hardworking local non-profit groups, a week of activities and events celebrating Zihuatanejo and benefitting Zihuatanejo schools and educational projects, and you have a recipe for success, seven years strong. Sailfest 2008 had fewer participants than last year but no lack of enthusiasm nor results. Upwards of 60 boats participated; over 200 local merchants donated goods and services for the auctions, events and raffles; and over 200 sailors and sailors-for-a-day sailed in the final day sail parade. The impressive lineup of boats flying their colors and sailing in

procession from Zihuatanejo Bay to Ixtapa, and back, was again a sight-to-see and the highlight of the week, (If you’d like to ride along next year, reserve early, as spaces fill up). Nearly 50,000 dollars were raised during the week’s events with more still pouring in by matching funds and continuing sales of the immensely popular fundraising CD, Sounds of Zihuatanejo, Latin, Blues and Jazz. To find out about next year’s event or how you can help year-round, go to www. zihuasailfest.com Photo By Frank Sheppard

ADiP 26

By Donali Mendez Tello and David Roman Porcayo

Photos courtesy of the city of Zihuatanejo

arnival 2008 Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo’s theme “Party in Paradise,” was celebrated, February 5-10, 2008, and hosted parades, concerts, coronations, and dances to the delight of crowds of over 20,000 people; Zihuatanejo was declared the happiest city in the world. Crowned 2008 Queen of the Carnival was Ana Lilia Manzanares, Children’s Queen was Nicole Mungía, and the Ugly King was Amadeo Farias. The final parade, Sunday, February 10, entertained thousands of spectators for over two hours with lively music and dance and a wide array of intricate, spectacular and colorful floats presented by Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo’s educational institutions, local chambers of commerce, associations, hotels and companies, rocked their way through downtown Zihuatanejo. If you missed this year’s party in paradise, don’t make the same mistake next time!

ADiP

CLUB MED

grand renovation grand inauguration party

1. Mariana Ochoa, Erika Zaba, ex-members of the famous musical group OV7 2. Epitacio, Monika Zawadzka 3.Yuriria Vázquez Valencia 4. Luis Anaya, Paty Webber, Lilia Valle, Hector Villanueva 5. Leonardo Esmerian, Monica Davila, Abraham Bermudez, Gil Vienne 6. Rocío Madrazo, Francisco Ochoa, Alejandro Struck & Victor Diaz Lamich

Photos by Epitacio

Marshall´s birthday party

Photos by Dave Therens

1. Christine and Marshall 2. Aldo Cuglietta and Dave Therens 3. Fred Bruno and Letticia Romano 4. Patrick Gallaghen, Russell Henderson, Marshall Slacter, Aldo Cuglietta and Dave Therens

Jorge`s birthday party

Olga Orihuela, Jorge Rendon, Josue De la Cruz, Paloma Sanchez, Monica Otero, Cesar Ambario, Jorge Luis Delgado and Yuriana Hernandez

Interiores Zihuatanejo New Location Inauguration party & Netza Project Benefit Night 1

1. Netza school director Marina Sanchez with students greeting guests 2. Jazz and Blues singer Kim Marcoux performing 3. Shirley Dean with Netza students 4. Helen Walsh and Jane Saunderson 5. Jim, Jane, Joanne and Tom Collins 6. Smiling Netza students in traditional dress

Photos Images by Julia

Lois Brown´s Chick Party

Juli and Joel´s party 1

ADiP 34

By Elizabeth Williams Border Crossing Requirements The U.S. Embassy in Mexico City wishes to remind the traveling public that as of January 31, 2008, all adult travelers will be required to present both proof of citizenship and proof of identity or a U.S. Passport or SENTRI/NEXUS/ FAST card, when entering the United States through land and sea ports of entry. This requirement results from implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), and applies to U.S., Canadian, and Bermudian citizens. The following documents must be provided at the land and sea points of entry: - U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 19 and older will need to present a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. -Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. -Passports and trusted traveler program cards - NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST - will continue to be accepted for cross-border travel. Aside from U.S., Canadian, and Bermudian citizens, document requirements for other travelers will not be affected by this change. There is NO change in entry requirements for Mexican nationals. Increases to U.S. Passport Fees and New Parental Signature Requirements for U.S. Minors On February 1, 2008, the U.S. Government will ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

increase its fees for certain U.S. citizen passport services. For adult applicants renewing a passport, the total fee will increase to $75. For first-time applicants age 16 and over, the total fee will increase to $100. The fee for minors under 16 years of age will be $85. Effective February 1, 2008, passport applicants who are U.S. citizen minors under the age of 16 must appear personally with their parents to establish identity, proof of citizenship and proof of relationship. For parental application permission, both parents must appear together and sign, or one parent may appear to sign and submit the other parent’s notarized statement, or one parent may appear, sign, and submit primary evidence of sole authority. Minors age 16and 17 may apply in person with their own identification,but for security reasons, parental consent may be required. If your child does not have identification of their own, a parent will be required to accompany the child and present identification. Please refer to the Department of State’s website at www.travel.state.gov or http://mexico.usembassy.gov/eng/main.html for complete information on all new requirements, including downloadable revised forms that must be used as of February 1, and the U.S. Embassy website at for complete U.S. passport application instructions. Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website http:// mexico.usembassy.gov/eng/main.html and the U.S. Department of State’s travel website at www.travel.state.gov , where the current

Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review to “A Safe Trip Abroad,” found at http://travel.state. gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html , which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada , or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. Citizens living and residing in Mexico are advised to register their presence in the country through the U.S. Department of State’s automated online registration system, https://travelregistration.state.gov U.S. citizens may also contact the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy via e-mail or by calling Ixtapa Consular Agency at 755 553 2100. This complete message is available on the Embassy’s website at http://mexico.usembassy.gov/eng/ main.html. Vote -Exercise Your Constitutional Right Wondering how to register to vote while living overseas? Visit www.fvap.gov, the official

government website for overseas voters. You will need to fill out a registration card, with your US address (where you want to register to vote) and the mailing address here in Mexico (where the ballot will be sent). Every state is different and has different requirements for the registration card. The website has all the information for all the states. You send the registration card to the county in the state where you wish to register. You can also check this website designed to help the overseas voter: https://www.overseasvotefoundation. org/overseas/home.htm Survey: DidYou Have Problems Migrating to Mexico? The Mexican Government is conducting a perception survey among citizens of the United States and Canada living in Mexico in order to identify the main difficulties they faced during the process of migrating to Mexico and once they have settled in the country. Its purpose is to collect information, analyze the main difficulties, and propose policy changes to facilitate migration to Mexico.

citizens living in Mexico you may know. All information provided will remain anonymous and strictly confidential, and will only be used for the purpose of this study. Follow the link below to complete the 5 minute survey. http:// www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=Pqc_2f_2 f_2f31DL_2fva3658Gh09g_3d_3d Elizabeth Williams is the U.S. Consular Agent for Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. Her office located at the Hotel Fontan, in Ixtapa, Gro, 40880 Mexico. Her office hours are 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, she can be reached at Tel: 755 553 2100, FAX: 755 552 2772, Cell: 755 557 1106, of from the U.S. at: (1) 360 464 1628, e-mail: consularixtapa@prodigy. net.mx http://www.lizwilliams.org. The United States Embassy is located in Mexico City, Paseo de la Reforma # 305 Colonia Cuauhtemoc, Mexico, D.F.

Your participation is completely voluntary; please forward it to any other US or Canadian

ADiP 36

MAR 3-7: 2008 Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Real Estate Fair – Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. If you are seriously considering buying property in Mexico, the first step should be to educate yourself. Another Day in Paradise Real Estate magazine ,in conjunction with the Settlement Company and AMPI, the Mexican National Association of Real Estate Professionals, is sponsoring a five-day Real Estate Fair. The conference will include a week-long Property Showcase, featuring tours of developments and properties for sale in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area, and a Full-day educational seminar presented by internationally-known consultant on Mexican real estate, Linda Neil. See www.adipre.info for more information or contact info@adip.info for information and reservations. Wednesday March 5, 2008, 9am–2pm, 4pm-7pm, at the Hotel Dorado Pacifico, Ixtapa, 2nd floor. Full-day educational seminar will be presented by internationally-known consultant on Mexican real estate and AMPI national advisory board member, Linda Neil. and will cover everything you need to know to buy property in Mexico. Neil specializes in legal and fiscal issues, is a licensed Broker in California with post graduate studies in Mexican Real Estate law and has over 30 years experience in the Real Estate industry in Mexico. See www.adipre.info for more information or contact info@adip.info for information and reservations. Price is 300 pesos per person, and includes entrance to all seminars and property tour open houses, discounts for AMPI members.

MAR 2-9:The Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival, Zihuatanejo, Gro. Now in its fifth year, the Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival brings international musicians to Zihuatanejo from all across the world. Ten days of live music in Paradise includes many genres, and two free-to-the-public concerts, one for the school children of Zihuatanejo and the other for the people of Zihuatanejo. The Festival is a registered not-for-profit association in Mexico and a percentage of festival proceeds go toward supporting Music,Art and Cultural Education in the community. Sponsors, donors, and volunteers always needed. www. zihuafest.info, info@zihuafest.info

Mar 11,12: The Real Estate Show 2008, Expo Desarrollo Inmobiliario, Centro Banamex, Mexico City, DF. Billed as the most important Real Estate event of the year, The Real Estate Show is an industry exposition and conference in its sixth year. This year’s theme: Infrastructure and Sustainable Development, the Future Challenge. Will include expositions, seminars and panels on topics such as Sustainable Development, Real Estate Marketing, Financeinvestor capital for Real Estate development, Mexico Real Estate market projections, Green housing initiatives, Foreign Real Estate Investment and Foreign tourism in Mexico, Mexican national infrastructure projections, with representatives from Mexico’s largest industries. www.expodesarrolloinmobiliario. com,Tel. 01800-0830025 for more information. MAR 21,22,23: Collective Art Exhibition, Troncones. Gro. Featuring world-renowned textile artist,Florentina Lopez,and other artists representing several of the indigenous groups from the state of Guererro. Inside Hotel Troncones (Mi Casa Su Casa) on Troncones beach just before the bridge. Fri., 6pm, Sat., Sun. 10am-8pm., or come by for lunch at the restaurant and stay for the day. 755-553-2910, www.micasasucasa.ws for more information. APR 5,6: Tibetan Buddhism Course, Death and Rebirth, Ixtapa, Gro. Instructor Israel Lifshitz has received teaching from more than 20 Tibetan masters, including the Dalai Lama. He has given courses across Mexico, and Central and South America, and has an Education Center for Tibetan Buddhism in Morelia, 800 pesos per person, Sat. 10-2, 4-8:30, Sun 10-3, rociomadrazoeventos@ yahoo.com, 755-554-7774, 755-5533151,, for information and reservations. APR13-16:Tianguis Industry Tourism Fair, Acapulco, Gro. May 22, 23, 24, 25: HabitatExpo Mexico 2008,WorldTrade Center,Mexico City DF. Trade Show and exhibition for architecture and interior design professionals and design and home accessories’ wholesalers, with shopping days open to the public. Representing commercial and residential furnishing, decoration, home and garden accessories, with pavilions devoted to: Interiors, High Tech, Finishes, High Design, Baths, Kitchens, Exteriors, Offices. For more information www.habitatexpo.com

ADiP 38

By Nancy Seeley

ot long ago, I got mugged in paradise. One minute I was walking, admittedly alone, at around 10:30 p.m. on a Friday night in what I thought was a very safe area of Zihuatanejo, and the next minute I was lying sprawled on the ground after being forcefully pushed from behind. My first thought was an earthquake, but quakes don’t pull you along the cobblestones trying to get you to give up your purse. I wasVERY lucky, all things considered. Not only did the would-be thief run off after I screamed with absolutely none of my possessions, but my injuries were limited to a badly skinned knee and elbow. More good news is that concerned local residents came to my aid, cleaned me up, and phoned the police to take me home. And even more good news is that when I now notice my scars, they’re a constant reminder to be more vigilant wherever I go in the future.

* If you’re walking anywhere after dark where there are likely to be few other folks around, don’t do it alone, and if it’s really late, don’t do it at all, even with a buddy. The taxi drivers will love you for it, and even budget-conscious people like me have to admit it’s a lot smarter to part with a few pesos than risk having a problem. * Though pre-dawn hours are generally less dicey than around midnight, don’t venture on a never-before-tried route if you’re walking before the sun comes up, and consider bringing along a small canister of pepper spray. Here, too, company is your best insurance policy. * Ladies: Don’t haul all your valuables around with you in your purse. Bring only what you need for your current outing. Passports, the majority of your credit cards, mucho dinero, irreplaceable mementos, etc. should stay at home when you go out.

This incident could have happened almost anywhere, but it was a good wake-up call about the importance of keeping your guard up even when in our paradise, where the warm sun, gentle breezes, sparkling ocean and friendly people can easily combine to make you think nothing bad could happen while you’re out and about enjoying the inviting ambiance.

* If that purse does contain items you’d prefer to remain in your possession, then be careful with it. Don’t set it on the ground, don’t leave it opened up – exposing the contents to interested onlookers; don’t let it casually dangle from your shoulder, and don’t let it sit alone somewhere while you go off to dance the night away.

So…here’s a list of common sense “do’s” and “don’ts” to review, just in case you – like me – have gotten a little lax in the personal safety area:

* Resist the impulse to go out on the town looking like a walking jewelry store. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear your favorite necklace, bracelet or earrings to a party, but

don’t overdo it so you stand out to potential thieves. If you’re tempted to explore a new area you’ve never really noticed before and you’re by yourself, restrain yourself and come back to tackle this adventure with a friend – during daylight hours. If you’re a walker like me, there are so many new roads being cut into the mountains, behind rows of coconut palms, etc. that it’s REALLY difficult not to heed that siren call, but don’t! * Using cabs is an especially good idea if you plan on having a number of cervezas or other adult beverages during a night on the town or an afternoon at the beach. One does not want to experience “15 minutes of fame” via an article in our local paper, “Despertar de la Costa,” describing bodily injuries or car crash details. * To avoid robberies where you live, vary your daily routine. Don’t always leave at the same time every day so someone with less than honorable intentions knows just when you’ll be away. And do consider buying a home safe to lock up important papers, money and costly baubles. * Be on the alert for things that look or seem a little bit “off” when you’re out and about. Is someone hanging around outside an ATM while you’re inside? Cancel the transaction and go elsewhere. Is someone following you, noticing a large shoulder bag that appears to be crammed full of goodies? Hail a cab. Does a stranger seem just a little too interested in find out where you live or what you do? Make sure that person remains a stranger. Vamanos! * Don’t count the money you just got from that ATM in full view of passersby on the sidewalk. Don’t leave Comercial Mexicana while putting change into your wallet. Don’t stand in the market searching through a large wad of bills for something small to pay for the vegetables when others can see exactly what you’re doing. Cash should be invisible when you’re in public areas. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Once upon a time, Nancy Seeley lived a conventional lifestyle in the U.S.  Then, 11 years ago, she quit her secure government job and fled to Mexico to escape the rigours of yet another Wisconsin winter.  Three years later, she met the man of her dreams, Canadian Nick Dubeski, under a palm tree on the beach in Zihuatanejo.  The two of them have lived happily ever after in a somewhat vagabond fashion, traveling as much as possible and gathering information to write stories for this magazine.

* It’s a bad idea to walk around wearing headphones, especially in a little-traveled area. While you’re groovin’ to your tunes, an opportunistic pickpocket may be surreptitiously snatching the wallet from your back pocket. I’m sure there are more items to add to this list, but the idea here is to get you thinking so your time in Mexico, no matter how long or how short, is not marred by unpleasant memories. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

RealEstate March 2008

another day in paradise

another day in paradise magazine, where real estate is bought and sold in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, México

ADiP 42

Text and Photos By Maura Taylor

t’s said that a home is an expression of the uniqueness of its owner and choosing the right architect who understands this concept makes all the difference. Embarking on your quest to find the right architect is similar to taking up any new task, using a little common sense and plenty of due diligence. Now that you’ve bought your piece of paradise, it’s time to take the right steps to turn your unique vision into a reality. First Steps The first step in choosing the right architect is to find an architect who is based in IxtapaZihuatanejo. Locally-based firms are familiar with local construction codes, permits and environmental impact reports and are familiar with what materials work better in our local coastal environs. Unless you are a big developer looking for a large-scale builder, it’s best to concentrate your initial search locally. Contacting an Architect Some local firms have a current website, while others simply have a phone number and physical office. If you are contacting the firm through their website and they are in a position to act on your request quickly, you know they are interested in your lead. If you make first contact and do not hear back for a while, the firm may already have sufficient projects keeping them busy. Of course, if you are in the area, call them directly and make an appointment. Meeting an Architect View each firm’s mission statement and design philosophy, along with their current work portfolio. Make sure their style agrees with your vision. Before making contact, think of some specific questions you would like to ask; write them down and bring them with you. Discuss your priorities in terms of timescale, cost and quality and make sure the architect is on the same page. Take your time during your meeting to really get a feel for the architect and if he/she doesn’t offer first, ask to be introduced to the members of the firm. Remember, the firm will be working for you, so the first impression you get should be a good one.

Researching an architect Ask the architect to provide at least two previous clients and follow up with them to find out their individual experience working with him/her. Ask if they ran into any problems and if so, how were the problems taken care of. Mistakes are often made during the construction process and it’s important to know that they are handled responsively. If possible, visit a few completed projects and do thorough walk-throughs to check for attention to detail. Employing an architect Once you have made a decision on which firm you will be working with, make sure you are given a clear project timeline, detailed project budget and payment schedule. Normally, an initial deposit of about 30 to 60 percent is requested in order to purchase materials and in some cases, order certain products such as appliances or home accessories that require a significant lead-time. Make sure that whatever payment plan is agreed upon, you have a calendar of work approval and payment milestones so as not to hold up the building process. Overseeing the Process Now that you have selected an architect and the work is to begin, you may request that your architect send you weekly updates via E-mail and if possible, photos of the ongoing work under construction. If you are living outside of Mexico, it’s a good idea to contract a project manager that can be onsite to oversee the process, keep you updated on the progress, assist with crucial decisions and ensure that if any mistakes are made along the way that they are addressed and resolved effectively and in time. A project manager will also ensure that the construction process adheres to the budget and is delivered on time, something every client can appreciate. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Maura Taylor lives in Zihua and serves as intermediary and design consultant for home remodeling, restoration and condo finishing projects in Zihua and the surrounds.  She can be reached by phone or email: zihua cell# (755) 1019711 or destinozihua@gmail.com

ADiP 44

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A. Persons, activities and income to be taxed. The persons subject to this tax are individuals and corporations residing in Mexico and foreign tax residents performing entrepreneurial or service activities in Mexico through a place of business considered by the Income Tax Law as a permanent establishment. This new law taxes the income obtained from the following activities performed in Mexico by individuals or corporations:

Learn more about this and other important tips at the 2008 Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Real Estate Fair March 3-7, 2008, see our events page for more information.

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I. Flat Tax Law (IETU) On January 1, 2008, the Flat Tax Law 2008 (Ley del Impuesto Empresarial a Tasa Unica or IETU for its acronym in Spanish) became effective.

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By Agustin Galindo

Let’s say it once: It is not a matter of avoiding the pain for the pain is inevitable; it is a matter of choosing the consequences of pain. - Maurice Maeterlink, Belgian writer

i. Transfer of goods ii. Provision of independent services iii. Use or temporary enjoyment (rentals) of goods The income is deemed as obtained at the moment of effectively receiving the payment (or compensation) for the activities mentioned above. B. Income Exempted from the Flat Tax Law (IETU). This new tax provides that the income received by the following persons, among others, is considered as an exempted income: * Income received by civil entities with scientific, political, religious or cultural purposes, except for those with sport installations exceeding 25 percent of the total value of the installation. * Income received by chambers of commerce, industry and professionals. * Income received by parental associations. * Income received by authorized entities to receive donations. * Income received by agricultural, livestock or fishing activities. * Income received by foreigners from retirement funds. * Income received by transferring credit titles. * Income received by exchanging currency, except if this is an activity of the contributor. Income received by individuals who performed an activity taxed by this law in an accidental manner (that they are not performing entrepreneurial, professional or rental activities). ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

C. Deductions Some deductions allowed by this new law are: * Expenses for the acquisition of goods, services, and leases in order to be able to perform the activities previously mentioned. * Taxes paid in Mexico. (Not including the flat tax payments, income tax and cash deposits taxes, social security contributions and the ones to be withheld and paid to the tax authorities.) * Value Added Tax (IVA) and Special Tax over Services and Products (IESPYS) are deductible when it is not possible to off-set them, with certain conditions. * Payments for concessions. * Devolutions, discounts or down payments reimbursed, while they were subject to taxes at the time they were originated. * Payment of damages and penalties imposed by law for liabilities against third parties coming from Acts of Gods or Unforeseen Events, except that the damages or penalties were produced by a breach of the contributor. * Payment of policies or bonds for an insured risk. * Donations or gifts with the limitations provided by the income tax law. * Losses for uncollectible debt and from results of Acts of God, or unforeseen events are deductible within the terms of the Income Tax

Law. D. Requirements of the deductions The requirements of the deductions are that the expenses are made by the tax contributor for acquisition of goods, hiring independant services or for using or leasing goods that are strictly indispensable and effectively paid, and shall fulfill the same requirements for deductions in the Income Tax Law. E.Tax Rate. The tax rate is the following: 2008 16.5 percent 2009 17 percent 2010 17.5 percent F. Calculation of the Tax. In a very general manner, this tax may be calculated: Income Less (-) Deductions Equals (=)Tax Basis X 16.5 percent during 2008, 17 percent during 2009, and 17.5 percent during 2010 = Tax to be paid

The flat tax will be declared in the same manner as the Income Tax, as a provisional manner (the 17th of each month) and in a definitive manner (annually, March 31st or April 30th for individuals and corporations, respectively). G.Tax Credit (Tax Losses). When the deductions are higher than the income received, the contributors will have a right to a loss as defined by this new law as a “Tax Credit.” This tax credit can reduce the tax to be paid. E. Comments about the Flat Tax Law (IETU) The comments about this law that I would like to highlight related to real estate are the following ones: i) Transfer of real estate made by individuals in an accidental manner, i.e., that they are not performing entrepreneurial, professional or rental activities, is not subject to the Flat Tax (IETU). ii) Investment in real estate made during September 1, 2007, through December 31, 2007, can be deducted by 33 percent in the fiscal years that follow. For real estate acquired before that time, the investment can be deducted by six percent for the following 10 fiscal years. This is a problem that developers will have to deal with by either challenging this law before the Tax Courts, doing tax planning, or by waiting for an amendment to this law. iii) Among the exempted income, the Flat Tax Law does not consider condo associations. Therefore, maintenance fees can be considered as income for a condo association. In this relation a condo association needs to have all expenses invoiced so they can be deducted. In addition it is essential that all labor and social security expenses are paid. Again this is a problem that condos will have to deal with by either challenging this law before the Tax Courts, doing tax planning or waiting for an amendment to this law.

iv)Salaries and social security payments require special treatment to be deducted because they can only be deducted on a .175 factor (.175 for 2010, .170 for 2009 and .165 for 2008). Therefore, for Flat Tax deduction matters, it will be more beneficial for companies to hire external services than paying employees and social security. II. Law on Cash Deposit Tax (LIDE) On July 1, 2008, the Deposit Cash Tax Law (Ley del Impuesto a los Depositos en Efectivo or LIDE, for its acronym in Spanish) will take effect. The tax rate for this new tax will be two percent and will be calculated over the excess of a cash deposit of 25,000 pesos (or its equivalent in foreign currency) made in any type of bank account. The bank is bound to withhold this two percent and pay it to the tax authorities. All individuals and corporations are bound to pay this tax with exemptions, among others, of the following ones: Authorized entities to received donations Individuals and corporations whose cash deposits do not exceed 25,000.00 pesos Individuals and corporations that receive deposits as part of a loan by financial institutions It is very important to clarify that this tax only taxes amounts deposited in CASH for the part that exceeds 25,000.00 pesos, with the understanding that this amount will be taxed considering all the cash deposits made in all the accounts of a person in the same bank. The law provides that wire transfers, transfers, credit titles (checks among them) are not considered CASH. But is very important to clarify that a cashier´s check (cheque de caja) exclusively is considered CASH. Please be aware that this tax can be offset for the payment of the Income Tax and the idea

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Agustin Galindo is an attorney at law, founder of Galindo Abogados, S.C., and has an International Master of Laws (LLM) from Southern Methodist University (SMU) and a tax degree from Instituto Tecnologico Autonomo de Mexico (ITAM). Fully bilingual, he specializes in real estate, tax, civil and commercial matters including litigation. You can visit the firm’s website at: www.galindoabogados.com and you can contact him by e-mail at agustingalindo@ prodigy.net.mx, or his office by telephone (755) 554-9915 and (755) 554-9916.

for this tax is to avoid informal economy (tax evasion). III. How to legally minimize your income tax on capital gains for real estate. To be short, and in accordance with the Income Tax Law and its regulation, please consider the following points so you can legally minimize your capital gains: If you are buying, make sure the real purchase price of the property you acquire is reflected in your title, because this is going to be the basis to calculate your gain, so the higher your purchase price, the lower your gain. If you are buying, obtain official invoices for closing costs, such as: notary public fees, appraisal and transfer tax payment, because these are deductible. If you are selling, obtain an invoice from the realtor, because this is deductible. If you have already bought and you are building, obtain all invoices for construction, improvements and extension of the property, because these are deductible and need to be made official. If for some reason as a seller you cannot demonstrate the cost of construction improvements or extensions of the property, the value stated in the completed notice of construction (and if the value is not provided then 80 percent of the value reflected in an appraisal referring to the date that such investments were completed) can be used as a deduction. If you are a tax resident and you are selling your dwelling, you can obtain the benefit of tax exemption, under certain circumstances. I am sorry if this article is extensive, my intention is to write more about this specific matter later on, but I believe that for real estate purposes you need to be ready to understand the consequences of the new Flat Tax Law (IETU) and Cash Deposit Tax Law (LIDE). This way you will be prepared to legally minimize as much of the inevitable pain as possible.

Anuncia tu propiedad en la sección Real Estate Listing Por $ 400 pesos al mes.

Promoción: 3 propiedades por $ 1,000 pesos ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Informes y contrataciones: Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved. Calle Juan N. Alvarez # 34 (a lado de Aeromexico) Col. Centro Zihuatanejo Gro. Tel. (755) 554 6525 Cel. 755 104 5057

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New NAR and AMPI appointments By John Glaab Left:Zaida Cocco de Grayeb, taking her oath as President of AMPI Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, with AMPI National Advisory Board member Linda Neil in Mexico City. Right: Mario Aviles, outgoing AMPI President, Lic.Vasquez, Arq. Sergio Dueñas, incoming AMPI President adn Lic. Pedro Trueba, AMPI Executive Vice-President

inda Neil of La Paz and Los Cabos, AMPI Sections has been appointed Vice President, International Membership. Linda is in the last year of her two-year term as a Consejero (National Advisory Board) of AMPI. It is the second time around for Linda. She served a two-year term from 2000 to 2002. Adrian Arriaga who was NAR Ambassador to AMPI and co-author with Linda of the NAR course, “Doing Business in Mexico,” has been appointed a Commissioner of Real Estate for the state of Texas. (There are six Commissioners in the state.) Local AMPI Chapter Zaida Cocco de Grayeb is sworn in as President of AMPI Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. NAR Changes Elena Carrillo has replaced Jeffery Hornberger in the International Section of NAR. Jeffrey has been appointed Managing Director, Membership Development, Commercial Real Estate. Below is Elena´s biography: Elena Carrillo, NAR International Strategic Accounts Manager Elena joined NAR in August 2007 with responsibilities for identifying and developing key business alliances worldwide. She also is the regional staff liaison for Latin

American, Spain and Portugal, including the AMPI (Mexico)-NAR alliance. Elena has over 15 years of international and business development experience, most recently as Manager of Brand Development for the Project Management Institute. She has a background in developing business models and marketing plans, global marketing, branding strategies and more. Elena is fluent in Spanish and also has some Portuguese language skills. MARK YOUR CALENDAR: 2008 Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Real Estate Fair March 3-7, 2008, Ixtapa, Gro. Another Day in Paradise Real Estate magazine in conjunction with the Settlement Company and AMPI, the Mexican National Association of Real Estate Professionals, is sponsoring a fiveday Real Estate Fair.The conference will include a week-long Property Showcase, featuring tours of developments and properties for sale in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area, and a full-day educational seminar for prospective buyers and real estate professionals alike. March 12 Voice America Internet online show, Income Program Investment Talk, with hosts Peter Bosca and Dean Essa, “Experts Detail Truth, Dispel Myths About Investing in Mexican Real Estate.” Buying real estate in Mexico is a complex process. Savvy real estate investors, looking for opportunities to generate

wealth, are looking at Mexico as a way to realize appreciation and income but many myths and untruths are preventing them from taking advantage of the opportunities that exist from our neighbors to the south. Our three guests specialize in Mexican real estate investments and will set the record straight. They are: • Adrian A. Arriaga, CCIM, CIPS, Broker/Owner of AAA Real Estate & Investments in McAllen, TX and REALTOR of Record for several national U.S. companies, including Costco, FedEx/Kinko’s, & JP Morgan Chase in South Texas. • John Glaab, Vice President, International Marketing forThe Settlement Company,Mexico’s first escrow and title insurance company and International editor of Home magazine. • Linda Jones Neil, Founder and Advisor for The Settlement Company, and co-author of the National Association of REALTORS’ course, “Doing Business in Mexico.” For further information contact author John Glaab: john.glaab@settlement-co.com About the author: John Glaab has been a member of NAR’s International Section for over a decade. He has earned the Certified International Property Specialist designation and is a founding member of AMPI Los Cabos. He spends half the year in La Paz, Baja California Sur and the other half in Uruapan, Michoacan. For further information John.glaab@settlement-co.co

For Rent: On the Beach at Buena Vista (between Ixtapa and Troncones) New 2 suites with Baths and complete separate kitchen, large Terrace, 7 kilometers of beach, Secluded, quiet, peaceful! Sit on the terrace and watch the sunset. Car necessary. By day, week or month. Call 755-108-1611 of go to: http://lacasadedosamigas.blogspot.com

Casa Frida – Unique Home For Sale Barra de Potosi – Custom built 4Bdrm, 5 Bath, 3 separate buildings. Master Bdrm, dining, living, kitchen and terrace with ocean view. Lush tropical garden with swimming pool. Open Air kitchen and dining room. Separate caretaker’s house. Can be used as B&B or private residence. $350,000 US, www.casafrida.net, casa-frida@zihuatanejo.net Tel. 755-557-0049

For Sale - Troncones beachfront property. 2 story home plus open palapa rooftop. 3 bedroom, 3 baths; living / dining and kitchen on 2 floors. 2347 sq mts beautiful mature tropical landscaping. Rental history. Tel 755-553-2861 for appointment.

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Villas Flamingos Ixtapa #7 The real estate deal of the month is this 3-story, 3-bedroom, unfurnished villa located on Ixtapa Boulevard between the ocean and the Marina Ixtapa Golf Course. Offered unfurnished and asking $235,000 dollars. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Trapiche Ixtapa #1101 This 3 bdrm, 3 bath luxury apartment located in the Vista de las Rocas area of Ixtapa is the perfect choice for the discerning buyer looking for prime location and exclusivity. Property includes tennis court, swimming pool, steam room, gym and much more. Asking price $475,000 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Preciosa on the Bay #102 Zihuatanejo Bay fills your view as you relax on the large, covered terrace of this 2 bedroom, 2 bath, furnished apartment perched on the hillside above La Ropa Beach. Priced to sell before the next full moon sets over the Pacific Ocean. $355,000 dollars. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@ prodigy.net.mx

Finestre Ixtapa La Cala #3 This unique 4 bedroom, 4 bath apartment located within one of the area’s most exclusive gated communities offers style, comfort and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. $1,320,000 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@ prodigy.net.mx

Colina de las Palomas #358 Enjoy panoramic views of Ixtapa from the azure sea to the verdant mountains and everything in between from this 6 bdrm, 2-story single-family home on the hillside above Palma Real Golf Course. Swimming pool with hot tub, covered parking, secure entrance and much, much more. Offered unfurnished and asking $9,450,000 Mexican Pesos. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Bay View Grand Residential Villa #2N Life could just not get any better than this! Condominium living with your own private garden with large dip pool all located within yards of Ixtapa Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The villa contains 2 bedrooms & 2 baths, spacious living and dining area with high ceilings and direct access to the private garden. The property also comes with 2 covered parking spaces. Offered unfurnished and asking $395,000 dollars. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Patzcuaro - For Rent- 1, 2, & 3brdm apts and houses for rent by the week or month in quiet hilltop ex-pat enclave, with lake and mountain vistas. Semifurnished with kitchens. 20 min. walk or 20 peso taxi ride to central plazas and shopping. Contact Monica for more info, monagris@yahoo.com, Tel 434-342-7019

Patzcuaro - For Rent - 1, 2, & 3brdm apts and houses for rent by the week or month in quiet hilltop ex-pat enclave, with lake and mountain vistas. Semifurnished with kitchens. 20 min. walk or 20 peso taxi ride to central plazas and shopping. Contact Monica for more info, monagris@yahoo.com, Tel 434-342-7019

Beautiful Taos-Style Modern Adobe 3,000 sq ft house in a private valley with gated access, 5.5 acres, gardens, pressurized water, grounded electrics, internet, SKY TV, stables, vineyard, old-growth pines, and tranquility by Lake Zirahuen. For more info and photos see: www.mexatua.net/page.cfm/ property?p=78

For Rent Flamingo Golf Villas, - 3 & 4 Bedroom Beautifully Decorated Villas Overlooking the Marina Ixtapa Golf Course and Across the Street to Ixtapa Beach. 3 Minute Walk to the Marina, Restaurants and close to all the Shopping Areas of Ixtapa. Contact us at 755-553-1297 (Ixtapa) or (619) 840-4884 (USA) FlamingoGolf@hotmail.com http://www.ixtapa-mexico. com/flamingogolf//

Zihuatanejo Bay Views-  Selected lots located above La Ropa Beach.  All with unobstructed views of the Zihuatanejo Bay and Pacific Ocean.  For information call (755) 553-3221, or cell 044 (755) 104-6220. or email gone2zwhat@aol.com

Resort Ownership on Playa La Ropa Club Intrawest *1,2 & 3-bedroom Vacation Home *Sweeping ocean views

Club Intrawest - Zihuatanejo *Private terraces with plunge pool *Zi - The Restaurant at Club Intrawest Tel. 755 555 0382

Club Intrawest – Playa La Ropa, Zihuatanejo *Visit the Discovery Center.  Open daily. *Variety of ownership opportunities available Tel. 755 555 0382

Troncones Beachfront Home - One bedroom home on one quarter acre lot offered at $500,000. Fruit trees, environmental permit and zona federal in place. For more information please contact John Murphy at john@mexicobeachproperty.com or phone 755-554-0719

Zihuatanejo 5 bedroom home or hotel with development potential. Up to 2.5 acres with bay frontage and panoramic views in developed neighborhood. Please contact John Murphy at john@mexicobeachproperty.com or phone 755554-0719 for more information

*Spacious floor plans Tel. 755 555 0382

Mexico Beach Property - Beachfront lots with sandy beach frontage starting at $200,000. Condominiums, homes, hotels and development properties available. For more information please contact John Murphy at john@mexicobeachproperty. com or phone 755-554-0719

Monte Cristo Zihuatanejo - See full page ad for more information. www.montecristomexico.com, Tel. 755-102-7728

For Sale. Spacious villa with a very nice view to the green of the golf course $330, 000 USD REDUCED It features 4 bdrm with A/C, 4 bathrooms, maid’s room, kitchen, dining room, pool and spacious garden. recently remodeled, pool with outdoor bathroom. Contact Yadira Ríos at Prudential California Realty Ixtapa/Zihua Division, Cel. +521 (755) 100 59 10, Office +52 (755) 544 87 87 and +52 (755) 544 87 88 or email: yadira@pruzi.com.mx or visit our Web site: www.pruzi.com.mx

Patzcuaro For Sale – Villa La Jacaranda. Large landscaped grounds, trees. Spacious house 3 bdrms/2baths+casita 1 bdrm/1 bath+covered workshops++. Sculptured cantera fireplace, unique features. 15 min. walk to center. US$470,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patz-jacaranda.htm or Re/Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

Monte Cristo Zihuatanejo - See full page ad for more information. www.montecristomexico.com, Tel. 755-102-7728

For Sale. Luxurious condo overlooking the bay at la ropa beach $400,000 USD Luxuriously appointed 2bedroom, 2-bath condominium in a small, exclusive development situated above La Ropa beach with a spectacular view of the bay of Zihuatanejo. Contact Sarahi Cortez for more details at Prudential California Realty Ixtapa/Zihua Division, Cel. +521 (755) 102 80 27, Office +52 (755) 544 87 87 and +52 (755) 544 87 88 or email: sarahi@pruzi.com.mx or visit our Web site: www.pruzi.com.mx

Patzcuaro For Sale—Charming 2 bdrm/2 bath colonial home 2 blocks from Plaza Grande in Historic Center. Courtyard, interior carport, light, tranquil. Traditional materials/features. Sol #2 US$205,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patz-homes.htm or Re/ Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

Monte Cristo Zihuatanejo - See full page ad for more information. www.montecristomexico.com, Tel. 755-102-7728

Spectacular Ocean Front residence $651,500 USD Starting. Naiví- an exclusive ocean view development located in Contramar, one of the most beautiful areas in Ixtapa.  3 to 5 BDRM – 4 to 6 BATH, A/C, private pool, garden and terraces. Gloria Pérez, Prudential California Realty Ixtapa/ Zihua, cel. 044 755 102 81 47, office 011 52 (755) 544 8787, 011 52 (755) 544 8788 info@pruzi.com.m x, www.pruzi.com.mx.

Patzcuaro For Sale – Spacious 3 bdrm/3 bath colonial home 2 blocks from Plaza Grande in Historic Center. Interior courtyard, garage, quiet street. Built with traditional materials/features. Sol #3 US$248,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patzhomes.htm or Re/Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

For Rent Villas Palma Sol Behind Hotel Ixtapa Palace, 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 bathrooms, living room, kitchen, swimming pool, relaxation area, A/C. Fully furnished. USD$300 per day, USD$1,000 per week or USD$2,200 per month. Contact: Cel. 755 558 9059, e-mail campu_dsc_88@hotmail.com

For Rent Ixtapa Villa.  Charming 2 Story, 3 BR- 2-1/2 Bath, large pool and large barbaque ‘palapa’. Caretaker on property. Clean, attractive and comfortable, air conditioned, fully furnished. 10 Minute walk to Movie theater, shops, restaurants, hotels and main beach. US$330 p/ night, $1200 p/ week, $2500 p/ month. CA: Lilia Roman. romanlil@hotmail.com. Tel (415) 395 6002. Mexico: David Roman. davidroman88@hotmail.com tel 52 1 (755) 110 8075 (755) 112 2042

For Sale. In La Ropa, 2,679.50sq. mts. Of Lot located in Residential Tourism zone at 100 mts. walking from “LA ROPA” beach, (Acces to the beach) behind the restaurant “LA PERLA”. The Lot has property titled price at $ 650,000.00 U.S.D. Information Call (755) 553 02 23

For Rent. Penthouse Costa Bella. Pretty P.H., 80m² with 1 BDRM, King Size bed & 1 twin, A/C. Open air jacuzzi, open air dining with room for 6 persons dining, cable T.V. cable, wireless internet, maid service available. Just 50 metros to Playa La Ropa. www.costabellazih.com Tel. 755 554 49 67

For Rent Suite Costa Bella. Beautiful Suite with 2 double beds, kitchen & terrace dining room, A/C, cable T.V., wirless internet, maid service available. Just 50 meters from Playa la Ropa. www.costabellazih. com Tel. 755 554 49 67

For Rent Bungalows Costa Bella. Wonderful bungalows Costa Bella, in a nice private development on Playa la Ropa. By the month, week or day. www.costabellazih.com Tel. 755 554 49 67

Casa de la Sirena For Rent in Troncones: Beachfront private villa (kings) with private pool, 2-story bungalows (queens) with pool. Open air kitchens/living rooms, a/c, BBQ/wet bar, WiFi, www.casadelasirena.net, www.houseofthemermai d.com

Casa de la Sirena For Rent in Troncones, Very private,. Very romantic, Very upscale. Weddings Corporate Events, Family Reunions - Honeymoons Perfect for couples or rent the entire compound. www.casadelasirena.net www.houseofthemermai d.com

Casa de la Sirena For Rent inTroncones: Beachfront 1 bedroom (kings) mini villas with open air kitchen and living rooms. Swim up pool bar, entertainment center, BBQ/wet bar, WiFi. www.casadelasirena.net www.houseofthemermaid.com

For Rent: Ixtapa - “Arcano” - Private home.  Serene retreat in beachfront gated community. Full staff.  Beach club, tennis courts and a tranquil lake.  4 A/C’d BDRMs,  with bath. Private pool.  A very special property.  High season: US$1,200 per day, Low season: US$900 per day.  Holiday: US$1,500 per day.  Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx,Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Sale - Las Palmas Condominiums - A new development of only 18 two or three BR lovely condos, located within close walking distance to La Ropa Beach. Be one of the first to own while they are in pre-sales prices. Starting at US$168,000. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradiseproperties.com.mx

For Sale:  La Ropa Condo - Just above Hotel Villa del Sol.  Brand new 2 BR, 2 bath in newest development in La Ropa.  Open living area w/ full terrace and mesmerizing bay view.  Fully furnished, internet access, satellite TV, equipped kitchen w/stainless steel appliances and granite countertops.  Large infinity pool.  Elevator and gated entrance.  Can be excellent rental unit.  US$400,000.  Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078, www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Rent - Pto. Mio Residence-Simply elegant! Divine 4 BDRM home overlooking Zihua Bay and the ocean beyond. View marine life passing by from your tranquil front row seat. Complete privacy & perfect service staff. Low Season: US$10,000 per week High Season: US$15,000 per week Xmas/Holidays: US$20,000 per week. 1 week min. Judith

Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226 www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Rent - The only private residence located right on La Ropa Beach.  Completely private, large pool, 3 BR, 3 bath, kitchen w/service bar, al fresco living area under breezy palapa.  A/C in bedrooms, DSL internet access, satellite TV, fully staffed.  US$1,000 p/day high season; US$800 p/day low season.  Judith Whitehead Paradise properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 755-5546226,www.paradiseproperties.com.mx

For Sale - Spectacular and whimsical penthouse condominium overlooking La Ropa Beach.  All air conditioned, 3 BR, 3-1/2 baths, 2 floors, terrace with fablous view of beach and bay, internet access and Vonage phone, satellite TV, furnished and ready to move in.  Listed at US$395,000.  Judith Whitehead Paradise properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 755-5546226,www.paradiseproperties.com.mx

For Sale - Beautiful Ixtapa Beachfront- Private Villa, 2-story, 4 BR/5 Bath + Maid’s room. Large Pool overlooking beach. Shopping and restaurants within walking distance. One of a kind property and all you could ever want! US$1.7M Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties,

For Rent - Playa Blanca Beachfront Home - Charming 2 Story, 4 BR-2-1/2 Bath, large pool, poolhouse and outdoor kitchen BBQ with bath, A/C BR, caretaker on property. Attractive and comfortable, 5 minute walk to Barra de Potosi. US$2,200 p/week. Judith Whitehead, Paradise

Palma Real Golf Course Villa - On a quiet cul-de-sac on the 7th hole of the golfcourse, this 2-story 3 bdrm, 31/2 bath villa in a group of only 9. Lovely furnishings, large rooms, A/C, satellite TV, telephone with DSL internet access, a large pool with sunning pools and jacuzzi, well equipped kitchen, off-street parking and 24-hour security. Improve your life, move in tomorrow! Listed at US$300,000 Judith

jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx,Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

Fourteen room hotel in Troncones in the center of the commercial district on the beach. Four bungalows, four king suites, three family units, and a three-bedroom two-bathroom master suite. All with great views! Main Hotel Built in 2004. Fully furnished. Includes steak house, art store (inventory sold separately), full gym and skateboard park access. $2,700,000.00 www. micasasucasa.ws for more information

Four secluded bay lots located on the south end of Troncones on the beach .Approximately 1000 meters per lot offered at $375,0.00.00 (US Dollars) each. www.micasasucasa.ws for more information

Barra de Potosi – Casa Puesta del Sol Beach Front rentals. For Sale. Safe swimming & walking distance to town. This is a perfect retirement set up, live on the Beach and live on the income. For more info go to www.casa-puesta-del-sol.com, or call Cell # 755-120-6432.

For Sale. Located in the exclusive residential zone of Marina Ixtapa, Marina Plaza offers beautiful, 2-3 bedrooms apartments, all of them with living-dining room, kitchen, 2 bathrooms and air-conditioned. Prices starting at $185,000.00 USD. 40 feet pier: $50,000.00 USDGRUPO PIA Real Estate, “The company you can trust”. Tel/Fax:.01 755 54 4 81 81 / 01 755 54 4 7870 E-mail:piabienesraices@ yahoo.com.mx. www.grupopia.com.mx

For Sale. In “Paracaná”, an exclusive Development in Ixtapa this beautiful Condo in front of the golf course, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, living, dining, kitchen. tennis courts, pool, security. 252m2 Price$ 250,000.00 USD. GRUPO PIA Real Estate, “The company you can trust”. Tel/Fax:.01 755 54 4 81 81 / 01 755 54 4 78 70 E-mail: pi abienesraices@yahoo.com.mx. www.grupopia.com.mx

For Sale. Beachfront and oceanview lots in La Ropa area. Impressive view of Zihuatanejo Bay. Prices from $180.00 to $300.00 USD per M2. GRUPO PIA Real Estate, “The company you can trust”. Tel:01 755 54 4 81 81 / 01 755 54 4 78 70 E-mail: piabienesraices@y ahoo.com.mx. www.grupopia.com.mx

365 Sunsets-  Enjoy the sunset year round from the private terrace overlooking Ixtapa beach, Sierra Madres and Pacific Ocean.  Three bedroom/ two bath with all modern conveniences.  Priced to sell.  Financing available to US citizens.  For appointment call (755) 553-3221, or cell 044 (755) 104-6220 or email gone2zwhat@yahoo.com.

Troncones Beach Bungalows, For Rent, from $98.00 per night. Surf Shop, Gourmet Dining, on Pristine Manzanillo Bay. Visit our website at www.manzanillobay.com or call 755-553-2884

For Sale Lot Patzcuaro: Awesome location just a block away from Patzcuaro’s elegant Plaza Grande!  Great potential... Some wonderful view potential on 362.88 sq meters or 3906 sq feet of property with some very usable existing building.  Priced at $295,000 USD ryan@lacasaencantada.com or call Julieta at Tel. 434-342-3492 ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.