ADIP March 2009 by ADIP

paradise another day in

March 2009 / 60

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

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paradise another day in

EDITOR - PUBLISHER

Catherine Krantz info@adip.info COLUMNISTS - CONTRIBUTORS

Sierra May Bishop John Glaab Michel Janicot Ed Kunze Epitacio Lorenzo Marbut Lisa Martin Linda Neil Hans Nystrom Matthieu Pichenot Ian Sheppard Lisa Sheppard Nancy Seeley ADIP OFFICE & ADVERTISING INQUIRIES (755) 544-8023 space is limited, deadline for materials and payments is the 1st of the month previous info@adip.info

DESIGN

elcome to Another Day in Paradise

It’s March 2009 and we have reached another milestone: Our 60th edition and the end of our 10th season publishing in paradise. Looking back at issue number 1, October 1999, eight black and white pages of bond paper— we are tempted to notice only the differences. Issue 60 is almost 60 full-color, glossy pages— seemingly a different publication all together. But surprisingly they are very similar, with many of the same writers, photographers and advertisers, and many of the same themes: Mexico’s fascinating history, culture, art, and Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo’s many charms. With so much change around, it is heartening to see so many things are exactly the same: the natural beauty, the vibrant community, the fabulous food … and ADIP still right here trying to cram it all in, in too little time, in too few pages. Some things never change.

We chase many elusive things in life, usually some sort of self-imposed ideal—our own definition of paradise, and most of us feel like we never get there. Perhaps you spend so much time focusing on where you want to be, you don’t notice when you have already arrived. But I suspect it is in places like Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo—where the ocean breeze tantalizes, the ruffling of the palm trees lull and the horizon stretching off across the big blue ocean inspires—that we can pause long enough to put things in perspective. And sometimes that’s as close as you can get, and sometimes that’s more than enough. Have a great summer and keep checking in with our website over the next few months. We will have lots of new additions to adip digital, as there’s always more to say. Until next time,

Advertising Agency jld picassojld@hotmail.com Office: Tel. (755) 554-6525 Cel. (755)104-5057

WEB DESIGN & HOSTING Zihrena Sistems La Ropa, Zihuatanejo webmaster@zihua-ixtapa.com (755) 554-0719 SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES Check out our web page for more info: www.adip.info WE WELCOME ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPH SUBMISSIONS info@adip.info FOR GUIDELINES Huichol table Top Photo By Catherine Krantz ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

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March 2009 / 60 6 History The Oldest Winery in North America

10 Food Organic Food in Mexico 14 Sports Kite Fishing & Circle Hooks 16 Art & Culture Mexican Proverbs & Popular Sayings 18 Books Indigenous Dress in Mexico 22 A&E ZIH Galeria, for art lovers 24 Shopping Must Haves in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo 30 Community Get Involved: Community Project Directory 31 Community Netza news, EMEC update, Sailfest Wrap-up 36 Upcoming Events ZIGF - Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival 38 Z-Scene 41 Travel Acapulco, Bright Lights Big City 43 Classifieds & Resources

Real Estate Guide 46 Real Estate News New president for AMPI 47 Real Estate Law Fiduciaries & Buyer’s Agents 49 Real Estate Listings For Sale, For Rent

ADiP

By Matthieu Pichenot Translated by Sierra May Bishop Photos courtesy of Casa Madero

t is not a mirage!

After having crossed a long desert there appears a miraculous oasis. In this valley of fertile land crystalline springs abound. The Parras valley is a verdant space in which one forgets that they are surrounded by the semidesert region of Coahuila.

In addition to its water reserve, the Parras valley’s proximity to the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains puts it at an altitude of 1500 meters (4921 feet). The combination of a semi-desert climate paired with the influences of the altitude and mountains of the area provides a microclimate ideal for the culture of the vineyard. The peculiarity of a union of feature such as these has caused some to christen this valley Valle de los Pirineos (Valley of the Pyrenees), after its resemblance to the mountains of the same name that form the border between France and Spain. Both the environmental and climactic aspects of the valley make it a particularly good place to grow wine grapes. Winter temperatures range from -2°C (28°F) at night to 15°C (59°F) during the day. During the summer the sun is generous to the vine-covered land and delivers ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F) during the day and from 18°C (64°F) to 20°C (68°F) at night. The coolness of the winter allows for the vine to thoroughly rest while the consistency and sweetness of summer permits a progressive and complete maturation of the grapes. Also, the intimate mixture of calcium carbonate and clay that makes up the soil and subsoil of the valley benefits the cultivation of the grapevines. The clay’s richness helps with vegetation development, allows for the retention of the water until it filters through the calcareous gravel. Its source of appeal recognized in 1986, the Valle de Parras became the first Mexican winery recognized by the Organización Internacional de la Viña y el Vino (International Organization of Vine and Wine). The ink of a long story fills your glass The French word terroir cannot be translated into English or Spanish. To explain its significance we must enter into a discussion of climatology, pedology (the study of soil), sociology, and history. The terroir is, in summary, the joint action of weather, earth, and man. In this way, the vines in the Valle de Parras are a reflection

of the skills possessed by the agronomists who cultivated them. But to understand the soul of the vines’ nectar one must understand the history of the people of the valley. Thirsty for gold the conquistadores crossed the Mexican dessert. In place of precious metal, however, they found instead the Parras oasis and its abundant wildlife. The Santa Maria Mission of Parras decided to establish itself in the area and produce some of the first wines on the American continent—using native vines. The interaction was not peaceful and the native people of the area soon forced the mission to abandon the site. However, Don Lorenzo García, the mission’s resident, did not want to desert the agricultural benefits of the valley. In 1597 King Felipe II of Spain did Don García the favor of allocating the valley’s land for the purpose of planting vineyards. Apparently, the indigenous people accepted this and left the land and its new occupants in peace. In 1893 the vineyard was purchased by Don Evaristo Madero—the grandfather of President Francisco I Madero—a key player in Mexico’s 1910 Revolution. The present owner, José Milmo, is a direct descendent of the Madero family. The illustrious family name is now that of the vineyard too: Casa Madero. The family home has been converted into a divine colonial inn which had been christened San Lorenzo in honor of the creator of the first vine. Having endured various crises such as New Spain’s prohibition of the production of wine in 1699 and the devastation of Phylloxera (a plant louse which pesters vines), Casa Madero ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

has never stopped production and today has the honor of being the oldest vineyard on the continent. Casa Madero Today Today Casa Madero is a vineyard of 450 watered hectares planted with European varieties. The red-wine grapes represent 85 percent of the planted estate including Merlot Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon fruit. The white wines represented are Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Semillón. The final installment missing for the vines at Casa Madero to climb to the top was that of science. Today agricultural engineers and winemakers from the best schools in France form the Casa Madero scientific team. Using updated technological procedures, the winery is keeping up with the times. All of this has lead to the production of awardwinning wines winning a cascade of medals in several major international competitions. Casa Madero exports its product to more than 27 countries.

Buen Provecho… We await your visit to VINOTECA so that we can guide you in your maridaje choices. Matthieu Pichenot is a wine maker and French Sommelier. He spends half the year making wine. With diplomas from schools in Toulouse, Beaune, and Cognac he spends the last six months of the year in the vineyards of Parras Coahuila Mexico, Chablism, Borgoña, Jura, Mairan, Côtes du Rhône, Córcega, and others. The other half of the year he awaits your visit to VINOTECA (Av. Vicente Guerrero #22--next to Mario’s Leather Shop--in Zihuatanejo Centro www.vinoteca.com) where he can recommend your wine selections. VINOTECA is open year-round and has an ample selection of national and international wines of all prices and for all tastes. VINOTECA organizes regular events (tastings, dinners, pairing, etc.) to help develop the wine culture in Zihuatanejo. To be informed of upcoming events, email mpichenot@vinoteca.com or call (755) 120 5942.

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ADiP 10

By Lisa Sheppard Photos by Ian Gordon Sheppard

rganic food is not for the rich or ultra hip foodie. It has broken out from its place among mung beans, goat milk yogurt, and ultra bran granola on the shelves of left-wing alternative markets. Some organic buyers wear Manolos while they drink lattes in trendy coffee bars or gaze at artfully arranged salads in posh restaurants. But mostly organic food is available at non-designer prices to all of us and plays a significant part in our daily pleasures, health, the environment, and our economic and social futures. Why buy organic when it has a reputation for costing more, doesn’t look as shiny or evenly colored, and is generally smaller? First, because organically grown produce has more flavor, more vitamins and minerals, is generally in season, promotes heirloom varieties capable of reproducing without the aid of science, (remember the large white turkeys they breed for immense breast meat that can no longer walk or reproduce and develop large sores on their skin?) helps prevent the patenting and control of our food sources by huge conglomerates, and in the case of Fair Trade organizations directly benefit the grower and their community. Why should you care about these things? We will assume that you would like to buy

Giant Red Mustard Greens

the best tasting, ripe, nutritional food with your hard-earned money. After all, based on the U.S. minimum wage an apple costs you 14 minutes of your working day. If you, like most North Americans, take a vitamin supplement you do so because you are afraid of not consuming them in your food. Eating healthier food means you don’t have to pay for dietary supplements. Personally I do not like eating a green hard peach or a plastic bag of two weekold preserved lettuce.Vitamins are like sand in an hour glass, the top half full of sand is lettuce freshly picked. As time ticks on the grains of sand leave the upper half of the glass much the same way vitamins diminish with time in your food, until there is very little left. I like my produce ripe especially fruit, as smell makes up half of your sense of taste. When was the last time you actually ate a ripe sweet tomato that smelled tomato-ey? I despair at commercial strawberries sold in plastic punnets. They are large, huge in fact, hollow, bright red, and have little flavor. I found this out when I tasted my first organic strawberry; it was almost purple in color, small firmly fleshed but tender, intensely flavored with the sweetest juice balanced by a slight acidity. I couldn’t believe how I had been duped into believing that big red balloon of a fruit had any resemblance to a real berry! We now grow beds of our own and if it is possible they are even sweeter than my first taste.

Chemical fertilizers and insecticides cost big money, the kind of money a small farmer doesn’t have. The state of Michoacan has its own fair trade organization, Fair Trade South America, based in Uruapan. FTSA ships organic, blackberries, mangos, coconuts, avocados, papayas, grapefruits, limes and more all over the world for Michoacan’s organic farmers. A percentage of the profits are given back to the grower’s pueblos helping fund socially valuable projects, creating a direct impact. The potential money involved in organic food has recently made the biggest chain store in the United States come searching here in Mexico for sources of organic produce. They know that when the general public wakes up there is gold in going organic. You want to buy organic produce? Look for the organic label now

appearing more frequently in supermarkets. Visit local farmers and ask them what they grow and if they would like to sell some. Stop at small roadside stands or at the wheelbarrows under umbrellas on the side of the road and buy fresh, organic, mature produce directly from the people who grow it. Here in Mexico organic food is easier to find than you think: it is in your neighbor’s back yard. Lisa Mower Sheppard was born and raised in Berkeley, California with its multi-cultural food community and “Gourmet Ghetto.” Lisa and Ian, a photographer from London, own a small, organic, bio-diverse farm near Lake Zirahuen, Michoacan that produces a wide variety of heirloom vegetables, herbs, and fruit.

French Breakfast Radishes

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ADiP 14

By Ed Kunze

here are many ways to catch blue water game fish without having the deckhand or captain setting the hook for you. For instance, when you get a strike by a sailfish on the trolled baits, the usual practice is for the deckhand or captain to grab the rod, free spool the line for a while, and set the hook. After he gets the enjoyment and thrill of the first run, he will then pass the rod to you. No wonder these guys love to fish. They get to do all the fishing, and are even getting paid for doing it! You do the hard part: the winching. For anglers to hook their own fish, the bait and switch is very effective, and a lot of fun. The crew stays active in this method, because they tease the sailfish close to the boat. Then you do a drop back with a live or dead bait, and the sailfish switches over to the easier and more realistic offering.You should be using circle hooks, so it is just a matter of letting the fish make its turn, point the rod right at the fish while engaging the reel, and let it come tight. The sail will be hooked solidly, right in the corner of the mouth. You do not “set the hook” when using circle hooks, the fish will do that. In all applications, and even trolling with dead bait, circle hooks should always be used. Circle hooks, because they catch in the corner of the mouth, will eventually be the savior of Mexico’s sport fishing industry. The way overfishing is happening on a world-wide scale, I envision some day in the future, only methods and hooks which have proven to be non-lethal will be allowed. So, if you and your children want to continue sport fishing in the future, bring down circle hooks with you, and have the captains use them. Guatemala has already enacted laws, which they enforce, allowing only circle hooks for all of their sport fishing. A captain can lose his license if “J” hooks are even on the boat. Guatemala understands the importance of sport fishing tourism to their economy, and endeavor to ensure there are still game fish around to continue the future of sport fishing. One of the absolute best applications of using a circle hook is catching your fish off a kite. Plus, the excitement factor is awesome. You not only see the strike, but sometimes the game fish will come completely out of the water to take the bait. Once he has the bait in his mouth, the line pops off the kite line, and ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Circle hooks and bait fish, Photo By Ed Kunze

you do the “point the rod right at them” again, for another solid hookup.

“Circle hooks, because they catch in the corner of the mouth, will eventually be the savior of Mexico’s sport fishing industry.” Kite fishing has been around for years, with many different manufacturers of specially made kites for ocean fishing being available. I prefer the AFCO kite, because it is a bit larger than the others, flies well in a light wind, and you can immediately reuse it again if it goes in the water. This is the way it works: A regular fishing rod is used to fly the kite. The kite attaches to a swivel at the end of the line, and by either reeling in line, or letting some line out, controls the height of the kite, and the distance from the boat. About 80 feet back from the swivel holding the kite, tie a dropper loop in the kite line. Attach your release clip to the loop. I like the dropper loop method, because the line can be reeled onto the reel, all the way up to where the swivel is attached to the kite.When the kite is flying about 80 feet out, and the release clip

is just at the end of the kite rod, the line from the second rod, the one you are going to catch your fish on, is attached to the release clip. At this point, put your bait in the water, letting out line on both reels simultaneously. As the kite goes up and further away from the boat, so does the bait, with the speed of the line release for both reels matched to keep the bait swimming on the surface. Minor adjustments are made as you troll or drift along, depending on wind speed. The main thing is to keep the live bait swimming and splashing just at the surface. The distress signal vibrations being sent off by the live bait will attract any game fish in the area. And, come to the bait they will. You are not trying to entice a strike with trolled bait, or an imitation lure; this is the real thing, with real distress signals. The game fish are actually competing with each other to get there first. And, they did not get to be near the top of the food chain by being shy. Being the actual fishing line and leader is not in the water, heavy leaders are not a handicap. You can use a light line rod, with a heavy leader, and really get more enjoyment out of the fight. When the strike comes, it is explosive.

More often than not, yellowfin tuna will come completely out of the water, sailfish will put on a an even more spectacular series of jumps, and you see the extended comb of the roosterfish slashing in, just before he inhales the bait. Dorado do all of the above. Dorado are really special off a kite. Once the fish has the bait in his mouth, he turns to leave the area. This pops the line off the release clip, allowing for several feet of slack line, and time for the fish to swallow the bait. When the slack is taken up, the reel is in gear and the tight line pulls the bait right back out. The circle hook sticks in the corner of the mouth. This method allows for an almost a guaranteed hookup every time, and a fish with a hook in the corner of its mouth makes for an easy release. A couple of more things should be said about circle hooks versus the standard “J” hooks usually used by Mexico’s sport fishing captains. The obvious is that the “J” hook method utilizes the same amount of drop back time, so the bait is swallowed. It is more luck than anything else when the hook is in the corner of the mouth, and not deep into the gullet cavity or gill rakes. Another disadvantage of a “J” hook is in a prolonged fight.The hole the hook makes starts getting bigger and bigger. After a while, all it needs is a bit of slack line, and the “J” hook literally falls out. A circle hook will not do that. The only justifiable application of a “J” hook is when trolling larger artificial lures, with a tandem hook set up. The larger style lures rarely get swallowed, and one hook or the other will find a hold before its gets too deep in the mouth.

back out of the fish’s throat. The line, after the fish has made its turn and is swimming away, is being pulled from behind the fish. The circle hook simply will not make a U-turn, and grabs the corner of the mouth before it is pulled completely out. Tournament Anglers Association is made up of a large group of people dedicated to the preservation of the bill fish species. They have been holding an annual tournament in Ixtapa for 19 years now. In their tournaments, including other locations, they have released over 4,000 billfish to date. Circle hooks are mandatory. Here is what they recommend: “The recommended hook is Eagle Claw 2004 EL Lazer Sharp Tournament Sailfish available in sizes 7/0, 8/0, or 9/0. Suggested leader is 80lb to 100lb test.” So, for your next blue water trip, bring down a kite, some circle hooks, and enjoy catching and releasing your own fish. There is no need to bring rods with you; our boats here all have excellent gear. If you do not do much blue water fishing, and the kite expense does not justify a trip you only do every few years or so, give me a call, and I will make sure you are set up. Ed Kunze is Zihuatanejo’s IGFA Representative and a charter fishing boat captain. He lives in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo year-round and can be reached at 755-553-8055 or edkunze@gmail.com For more information on Captain Ed and his boats go to www.sportfishing-ixtapa.com Ed has also written a book about fishing the West Coast of Mexico., it is on line at http://www.fishingthewestcoastofmexico.com

Circle hooks, because of their circular shape, will not grab onto anything when being pulled

Capt. Cali has rigged this barrilete with a pair of strong rubber bands and a large circle hook. This is an ideal bait and rigging for marlin or a large tuna. A smaller barrilete or mackerel, rigged in the same manner, is very effective for sailfish and roosters. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

ADiP 16

By Nancy Seeley

ost ex-pats with a taste for Latin American literature are familiar with Laura Esquivel’s 1989 novel, Como Agua Para Chocolate (Like Water for Chocolate). Less well known is the fact that the title she chose for her best-selling first book has a double meaning, one of which is a popular refrán in Mexico. Refránes are proverbs, and this month we’re devoting a little space to paremiology, otherwise known as the study of proverbs, which historians say dates back to the time of Aristotle. I can’t imagine writing/editing over 100 books on this subject, but U.S. scholar Wolfgang Mieder has done just that. He says a proverb contains wisdom, truth, morals, and traditional views in a memorizable form handed down from generation to generation. We’ll also touch on dichos (“sayings”) before we’re done, but I’m getting ahead of myself. So, back to Esquivel’s book: In many Latin American countries, including Mexico, hot chocolate is usually made with water instead of milk, but the chocolate only melts when the water reaches the boiling point. That’s not a proverb. But when the four words como agua para chocolate are used to mean you’re boiling mad -- or passionately aroused -- then they become a refrán. Mieder says the Americas don’t have nearly as many proverbs as West Africa, for example, but there’s still plenty of interesting phrases out there, and many of them in use here in Zihuatanejo are closely related to sayings we’re familiar with back in the U.S. or Canada. Not wanting to blithely blather on about Mexican refránes without ensuring they’re actually used here in Zihuatanejo, I consulted local resident Monica Duran Perez. She’s a Mexico City native who has lived here more than 20 years with her husband – Anibal the bamboo furniture maker – and their two children, teaches Spanish, runs the Patio Mexica restaurant in Colonia La Madera, and collects books on this subject. OK, enough background. Here’s a good proverb to start with: ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Primero, lo primero, literally: “First, the first.” The underlying lesson is learn to prioritize. Poco veneno no mata means a little poison won’t kill you. And Como te ven te traten translates to the way you look is the way you’re treated. En boca cerrada no entran moscas means flies don’t enter a mouth that is shut. In other words, silence is golden. This particular gem is used in Mexico, the U.S., Canada, Spain, and Ethiopia, among others. Paremiology experts claim the phrase can be traced all the way back to ancient Babylonia. North of the border, we’d say, “Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched.” But here, Monica tells me, it’s Del plato a la boca se cae la sopa. Literally, from the dish to the mouth falls the soup. This refrán – in Spanish – uses the stylistic feature of rhyme. Interestingly, some proverbs possess certain traits in one language but not another. Tengo monos en la cara? This dicho literally means, “Do I have monkeys on my face?,” but if you hear it, the speaker is really wondering why you’re staring at them. Monica explained that refránes and dichos are not identical, though they’re sometimes lumped into the same category. The former are based on experiences passed on from one generation to the next, while the latter orally express a concept through metaphorical or other non-literal means. Here’s another dicho. Someone talking about a newly-engaged couple might say, Son uña y carne, meaning they’re inseparable, even though the words actually translate to like fingernail and flesh. Monica tells me this dicho is used a lot: Tengamos la fiesta en paz. In English, that means let’s have the party in peace. Pared down to the basics, you’re warning whomever you’re talking to NOT to cause trouble. No es lo mismo torear el toro que verlos desde la barrera. Translated, it’s not the same fighting

the bulls as seeing them behind a fence. Up north, the straight talk version is, “OK, let’s see YOU do it if you think it’s so easy.” Moving right along, in English you “Play the hand you’re dealt”…not always easy, but better than driving yourself crazy fretting about the unfairness of life. When you’re in Zihuatanejo, the refrán is Bailar al son que le tocan, or dance to what’s being played Money, not unexpectedly, shows up in many proverbs. Con dinero baila el perro. Literally, with money, the dog dances. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out the speaker is telling you money can buy almost anything. Si, poderoso caballero es don dinero, (“Yes, a powerful man is Mr. Money”). An even shorter way of saying the same thing: Money talks. That’s another thing about the majority of proverbs: they’re brief. One website I checked out said the average length is seven words, adding that the authors are usually unknown, which makes sense, because otherwise these pearls of wisdom would be quotes. If you disagree with that logic, you could say, Se te safó un tornillo! The recipient of your comment may not be happy to know you think he’s got a screw loose, but asi es la vida. In other words, that’s life. Carrying this one step further, speaker No. 1 could chime in with, Te esta tomando el pelo. That is to say, “He’s tugging on your hair.” Yup, he’s making fun of you, but this dicho says it in a kinder way – just as we’d say someone’s “pulling your leg” or “yanking your chain” in English. Why are proverbs so popular? According to the experts, they serve a variety of purposes. You can sometimes make a point much more diplomatically by resorting to a tongue-incheek remark. If you say someone’s pulling your leg, that doesn’t sound nearly as negative as insisting he’s a jerk. Because many of these maxims are humorous, they can liven up a dull conversation. Not to mention that if a muchquoted refrán or dicho can help you make your

case, it could prove the turning point in getting your way if several courses of action are being debated. This one fails the seven-word count, but it could come in handy if you’re getting frustrated. Mi primo me sacó de mis casillas con sus preguntas. (“My cousin took me out of my cubbyhole with his questions.”) The dicho here really means your cousin is driving you right up the wall. Depressing economic conditions of late could make this one even more common: Casi me dejaron sin camisa. You’ve just paid your taxes. “They’ve left me without a shirt,” you say. We’ve all heard that one in English using almost exactly the same words. If you’re pretty steamed by that shirtless situation, then by all means say Estoy hasta el copete. In English, you’ve asserted you’re completely fed up. You’ve had it “up to the forelock.” And if you’re a novice at speaking Spanish, don’t try to remember all these refránes. Just pick one for starters. Remember: Mas valé pájaro en mano que ciento volando (“Better a bird in the hand than hundreds flying overhead”). But don’t dawdle. Get right at it! Camaron que se duerme, se lo lleva la corriente (“A sleeping shrimp will be carried away in the current”). We’d say sort of the reverse of that -- “The early bird gets the worm” -- to make the same point, which is: Attend to your business. Here’s a few shorties to get you started: El amor es ciego (“Love is blind”), Pueblo chico, infierno grande, literally:“Small town, big fire;” figuratively: Lots of gossip there! And Los apariencias engañan (“Appearances can be deceiving”). Just one more refrán and one more dicho, and we’re done: Hechando a perder se aprende (“by losing you learn”). In English, trial and error is a good teacher. Finally, contra viento y marea translates to against wind and tides, but should spur you on when you know the dicho actually means: No matter what, you’ll finish it. Carry on! ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

ADiP 18

By Michel Janicot

uring the 1960’s, the Mexican Secretary of Education undertook an extensive study of native clothing in several states, including Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo’s state of Guerrero. The exhaustive study set forth to record indigenous dress styles for posterity; before they succumbed to machine-made imitations and became lost to the inevitable progress of globalization. The result was the 1966 publication of an English-Spanish bi-lingual book entitled Indian Dress in Mexico (Volume II was published in 1968). Mercedes Olivera de Vasquez, the chief ethnologist for the project, stated: The most important significance of works like this one takes root in the fact that they rescue from time (and from socio-cultural change so accelerated at this moment) a great deal of those traits that unfortunately tend to disappear. The description of the characteristics of the [indigenous] clothing doesn’t constitute a mere testimony of its existence. Its divulgation also implies the possibility of assuring the survival of certain elements such as designs and decorations, once their incorporation to modern forms is achieved. We reproduce here the text of the research done in the village of Zitlaltepec, located deep within the sierra (mountains) of Guerrero. Even in the 1960’s the area’s indigenous people were buying calico skirts and factory-made sashes woven in other states. Nonetheless, the village remained a place where traditional hand-woven skirts were made and men wore huaraches made of plaited palms that “seemed to be exactly the same as those used in preHispanic times.” (Today these sandals are either made of imitation leather or molded plastic.) The book also devotes three paragraphs to the village’s ancient customs. Four centuries after the Spanish conquistadors and missionaries introduced Catholicism, these Indigenous people had never completely converted. Instead, echoing what they had been done for generations, the natives of the area continued to sacrifice hens, turkeys and pigs, and to rely upon a shaman to pray for rain after the fields were sown. Priests prayed for days and nights, offering the sacrifice of choice animal parts to their gods while they drank home-brewed chicha (an alcoholic fermented drink prepared from ground corn) and smoked home-made cigarettes. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Traditional Huasteca garments in northern Mexico. Photo by Maria Lourdes Alonso

At the time of the survey, to get to Zitlaltepec the anthropologists traveled by car from Mexico City to Chilpancingo, Guerrero’s capital, (269kms on a toll road), then through Chilpancingo, to Chilapa-Tlapa, (180kms of gravel road), Tlapa to Metlatonoc (four and a half hours by Jeep and three more hours on horseback), and eventually into Ziltlaltepec (it took two more days on horseback to reach Zitlaltepec from Metlatanoc). El Traje Indigena en Mexico, vol. II Textos: Carlota Mapelli Mozzi Instituto Nacional de Anthropologia y Historia, Mexico, D.F. 1968 Secretaria de Educacion Publica Zitlaltepec (Guerrero) Although in certain regions of Mexico the light airplane makes isolated villages in the mountains accessible, in this part of the Mixteca landing fields are few and far between and the horse is still the usual means of transport. The wearisome journey to Zitlaltepec, or “star on the hill” in Nauhuatl, takes one up and down along an apparently interminable path. One crosses canyons and small valleys in the midst of evergreen oaks and

pinewoods, and then bare plateaux from which chain after chain of mountains can be seen. We guess at the hidden presences of mountain lions, bear[s] and wild cats in the barren solitudes that surround us, but the only signs of life are the plump woodpigeons that lazily follow our horses. From a distance we glimpse the straw-thatched roo[ves] of the Mixteca huts some of mud and some of mud and wattle alone. We come across some women carrying water in double-bellied gourds or in long red earthenware pitchers with three handles. A few wear the white enredo, or wraparound skirt, which they weave on waistlooms. It is an arm’s length long or about eighty centimeters, and or eight pieces wide. On the bottom edge there is a band of the same embroidered designs found on the huipil. Today, however, most women wear calico skirts printed with stripes or flowers, which they buy in the nearby towns of Omotepec, San Luis Acatlan, or Tlapa. They are decorated with stripes contrasting in color. The enredo is held by a palm waist-band, plaited in a Mixteca village called San Miguel, to which they sew a white cotton

Woman using a waist-loom, Michoacan. Photo By Bruce Herman

Hupiles, square embroidered tunics, in Oaxaca. Photo by Anna Barton

sash, ten centimetres broad and two metres long, with a fringe and the designs mentioned above as being found on the huipil at the ends. Today the women who go down to Tlapa, the seat of the local authorities and nearest large town, buy red factory-made sashes woven in Puebla. The huipil, made of three pieces and hanging eighty-five centimeters down from the shoulder and measuring one meter seventy centimeters in circumference, may be either woven simply or woven with the a gauze technique. The odd one may have two red bands woven down the length of the edges of the central piece, the others revealing seams adorned with a scarlet zig-zag stitch. A black ribbon of artificial silk of factory-made cloth forms the points that decorate the neck. The originality of the huipil lies in the band of strange figures woven into the cloth: double or quadruple-headed eagles, squirrels colored like dragons, rearing horses, ants, monkeys and buzzards with open wings which appear to be drying their features after a rain-storm. Other, simpler designs represent birds and flowers of all kinds and colors. The larger, more eye-catching designs are generally woven on the upper part, that is, cover the breast and the back. The garment is worn like a shirt. When the women work they lift the front and form a bag which they attach to their sides. They use nets to carry bulky goods and the women carry their babies in them too, placing folded cotton cloth inside so that the cords will not bother the child. On other occasions they carry their young in an old huipil folded into a triangle. The women adorn themselves in extravagant earrings and hollow glass bead-necklaces. They comb their hair into two ÂŠAnother Day in Paradise ÂŽ, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

ADiP 20 plaits and protect themselves from the sun with a gourd cut in half. The men wear sashes just like those of their wives. Over the simple costume of cotton cloth they wear a woolen sarape, woven by the Tlapanecos— an Indian group living beside the Mixteos--in a variety of shades and designs. In San Miguel, the sarape has black, white and gray stripes and a touch of pink around the slit for the head. Zitlaltepec is in the district of which the chief town is Metlatonoc, where the Mixteca women wear similar huipiles, as they do in the neighboring villages of Cochoapan, San Rafaeal Chilixtlahuaca, and so on. In some, especially in Metlalonoc, the huipiles have a band, fifteen to eighteen centimeters broad, of thickly embroidered geometrical designs which runs over the breast and back, together with animal designs. Much more rarely, these geometrical forms are repeated throughout the length of the garment, substituting the animal motifs. In Metlatonoc the women wear wide, cotton skirts, either striped or flowered, adorned with black strips, to suggest a flounce. It is in Llano Perdido, in the municipality of Metlatonoc, where traditional hand-woven skirts are mostly seen and done.

Caught Reading If you catch someone reading Paradise, send us your photo. This month’s photo taken on Playa Troncones by William McElligott

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Kirsti Alopaeus

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By Catherine Krantz

IH Galeria, located in central Zihuatanejo on Juan Alvarez just up from the pier, has been offering art and regular exhibitions by local, national and international artists for eight years. Owned by Luz Machado, herself an artist, the small, intimate gallery with its distinctive palapa front awning, has every inch of its walls covered with the colorful works of many different genres. A cozy and inviting space where every visit exposes a new hidden treasure, ZIH Galeria has recently added a café with wireless internet and an upstairs art library, full of books to consult while perusing their latest exhibition.

Perhaps most remarkable of the current selection at the gallery are the always interesting works of Jose Coyote, from Toluca. He paints on wood and rough uneven surfaces and is known for his striking portraits of women, at turns seeming tortured, confrontational, mysterious. Are they victims or aggressors? After years of wondering I’m still not sure, but their unblinking gaze always leaves a lasting impression, unforgettable. The Mexico City based artists, Anna Karina Ferrer and Ivan Dominguez Roditi, paint delightful small square vignettes, as appropriate as graphic design elements as paintings. They work individually or placed together like a patch work quilt covering an entire wall,. If like me, you can’t decide on just one, buy five or ten! Marco Bustamante, of Oaxaca City, has shown many works of many styles at ZIH Galeria over the years, from sculpture, to modern paintings, to mixed media works, his work on display now is a departure: realistic portraits in soft, muted tones. Luz Machado favors a blue palette and draws

Jose Coyote

upon nature and natural symbols to create a cool serene environment, like walking in moonlight. Tere Metta, based in Mexico City, has moody paintings and enigmatic engravings on display. Antonio Luguin from Guadalajara, has intriguingly sparse, almost desolate, landscapes that make you feel like you are seeing them from the window of a passing train. Diana Manzanos’ nostalgic almost impressionistic drawings of Diana Manzanos

Anna Karina Ferrer and Ivan Dominguez Roditi smooth shapes, and tones call up another era, and Pedro Brachet draws wild and colorful tropical landscapes. Also on display are works by popular Finnish artist and former Zihuatanejo resident Kirsti Alopeaus, now residing in Playa del Carmen. Alopaeus’ work was much loved for its bright attention grabbing colors, shiny glitter, and magnetically engaging female subjects, whether they are cigar smoking beauties, fish bucket hauling temptresses, or as is on display in ZIH, a beguiling cateyed Virgen de Guadalupe. ZIH Galeria offers high quality thought-provoking original art works, and is a must stop for any art lover. Have a cup of coffee and spend some time, there’s much to see.

ADiP 24 Arlequin Fruit Plate with crushed crystal inlay by Diafano, 990 pesos. FRUITY KEIKO.

Brazilian Jatoba Wood Exterior Reclining Chair with 3 positions. LA CASA DE LA PLAYA.

Glass Candy Plate with Fish, 215 pesos. MIC MAC.

Colorful handmade, handtooled leather purses, approximately 100 dollars. MARIO’S LEATHER SHOP.

Boutique Mic Mac Native Art and Craft, Paper Mache Cotton Tableware & Accessories, Handmade Jewelry, hand embroidered clothing from Chiapas Centro Comercial La Puerta Loc 4,5,6,13 &14, Zona Comercial Ixtapa, GRO 40880 Tel. 755 553 1733

La Fuente Native Art and Craft, Cotton Tableware & Accessories, Windcharms, exclusive Jewelry designs,Taller Tatehuari, Pewter Frames,Talavera & Ceramic, Ken Edwards, Wicker Accesories from the Zumindi Collection

Centro Comercial Los Patios Loc 4,5,6,13 &14, Zona Comercial Ixtapa, Tel. 755 553 0812

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Magdalena rosary from Virgens, Saint & Angels, 2,750 pesos. FRUITY KEIKO

Stingray Belt, 90 dollars. Stingray Shoes, 250 dollars. MARIO’S LEATHER SHOP.

Fresh water pearl and red Swaroski crystal in gold, by Judy Brown, 1,300 pesos. FRUITY KEIKO.

Electric Blue Bowl, 435 pesos. FRUITY KIEKO.

Cut Glass Candle Holder / Vase. LA CASA DE LA PLAYA.

Vase Ken Edwards Collection, 450 pesos. LA FUENTE.

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Huichol Table Top, 12,000 pesos. ZIH GALERIA.

Large Hand Carved Fish in one solid piece of Parote Wood. LA CASA DE LA PLAYA.

Woven Grass / Tule Rooster from Patzcuaro, 1000 pesos. TROPPO.

Mario’s Leather shop Featuring a large selection of 100% leather goods. Owner operated for 25 years in downtown Zihuatanejo. Vicente Guerrero #10, Central Zihuatanejo. Tel. 755-554-3684 www.zihua.net/marios mariosleathershop@yahoo.com.mx

La Casa de la Playa Furniture - Art Crafts - Home Accessories Centro Comercial Las Fuentass Loc. 10, Ixtapa Gro., Tel. 755 553 1908 lacasadelaplayaixt@yahoo.com.mx

Obelisk floor lamp, many sizes, 450 - 1,320 pesos. LA FUENTE.

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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 supporting the vision and expansion of The Netzahualcoyotl School and Kindergarten for Indigenous Children in Zihuatanejo, which today educates over 400 children - many of whom speak Nahuatl, Mixteco, Amusgo and Tlapaneco, and who otherwise might not be in school. 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. 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 service organization with the purpose to help those in need. In Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo there are two groups: Club Rotario Ixtapa - Nuevas Generaciones New Generations Rotary Club Ixtapa, meets at 8:30 P.M. on Thursdays at Dal Toscano Ristorante in Ixtapa.

Catalina, on Playa La Ropa, Zihuatanejo, Phone: (755) 554-9321 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 sixth year, the Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival brings international musicians to Zihuatanejo from all across the world. Ten days of live music nightly in Paradise includes many genres and includes two free-to-the-public concerts. 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 Arrecifes Artificiales Pura Vida A.C. In Mexico, we are concerned for some of the oldest ecosystems on the planet—the reefs— since they cover a great part of our oceans. We are in red alert. This is a call for all humanity. Reefs and all its marine life are in danger of extinction. If we don’t act now, the reefs will soon disappear. PURA VIDA’s proposal is to design and construct an artificial reef system that provides a habitat refuge for a diversity of plants and animals, thereby contributing to the restoration of marine ecosystems. www.arrecifespuravida.org 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.

Club Rotario de Zihuatanejo, A.C. Zihuatanejo Rotary Club meets at the Hotel

To see more about Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo’s community projects go to the community page of our blog site at www.paradisemagazine.wordpress.com/community

By Lisa Martin Photos by Abby Ross

here’s been lots of wonderful new developments in the Zihua community with the long-term work of The Netza Project surrounding education for the region’s migrant, street, indigenous and other children, the empowerment of women through literacy and new employment options, and sustainable community development. The parents and teachers of The Netzahualcoyotl (Netza) School for Indigenous Children, now 14 years old, hosted a native food and cultural celebration, a Convivio, for long-time donors, friends, and volunteer teachers on January 30, 2009. Netza School Founder and Director Marina Sanchez Hernandez gave a short talk and shared photographs of the unique dream and history of the school, while over 30 guests enjoyed the company of teachers, parents and children to celebrate the school’s progress from a cluster of shacks, to a well-maintained facility that’s making a lasting difference to advance literacy and cultural understanding, and end poverty in thousands of lives. Today this special state-certified public school is offering the Federal curriculum as well as six (!) languages (4 native, plus Spanish and English) and is educating nearly 500 of the region’s neediest children, ages 3 to 12. In a program initiated seven years ago by The Netza

Netza school scholarship recipients and committee

Project founder and executive director (Lisa Martin of Zihua and Seattle, WA), 37 students, who would not be in school otherwise, are being helped with Netza Project middle and high school scholarships – even one is now in college. Rotary International has long been a partner in this project, too, and The Netza Project (a US 501-3c) is looking ahead to partnering with Rotary and the City of Zihuatanejo on the building of two to four new kindergarten classrooms on a prepared adjacent lot. The reopening of the city’s only shelter – the Netza 40-bed dormitory - is also planned in partnership with DIF and support from private donors and businesses who give clothing, bedding, and personal care supplies. “Thanks to the partnership and contributions of so many and the commitment of our teachers and parents, too, we now have one the best-run schools in the state for our people,” stated a very appreciative Marina Sanchez. Opportunities exist to volunteer teach, help with construction, or donate via The Netza Project to help with expanding the reading library, drop off learning materials, aid scholarships, women’s programs, and the kindergarten construction project. Contact Lisa Martin US cell 508-284-0078, US tel 360697-54676, info@netzaproject.org. The Netza Project PO Box 10411, Bainbridge Island, WA

98110. When in Mexico, Mexico cell:0440755 10-01173. Obtain more news, info or donate via PayPal on-line at www.netzaproject.org To watch a video on the history of the Netza Project, go to the community section of our blog site www.paradisemagazine.wordpress. com or visit the adip channel on You Tube, www.youtube.com/wwwadipinfo

Netza student with book

Lisa Martin with a few of her kids

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By Catherine Krantz

ikeke Rose, director of the EMEC music school, local musician, and music professor at the Tecnologica de la Costa Grande (Zihuatanejo’s technical college), has released a new CD of Instrumental ballads called, Jahsvibes Series #1, and like all of his endeavors it is focused on promoting his passion, the EMEC. The Escuela de Música Ezequiel Cisneros (EMEC), (“Ezequiel Cisneros music school”) has been offering music and voice classes in various locations in Zihuatanejo for seven years. They have received donated land from the Zihuatanejo city government to build a permanent site and with the help of architecture students of the Technological school are in the process of surveying and clearing the land to be able to use it. In the meantime, they are now housed on Cuahutémoc street in central Zihuatanejo, across from the library. They have classes in guitar, piano, and drums for beginners, for children in grades 1 – 8, and most children provide their own instruments. They have twelve guitar students and a 20-member choir. They have ten drum students, four of them in the four to five year-old age range, and hope to build a performing drum corp. They have ten piano students and they are trying to buy electronic, networking, teaching pianos that would allow the students to follow along with the instructor and that can be attached to a computer, they can buy seven for about 1,000 dollars or about 50 dollars each. For more information about the school, its classes and programs, or Aikeke’s new CD, contact the EMEC at Escuela de Música Ezequiel Cisneros, Cuahutémoc No. 82, Centro, Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, C.P. 40880, México, Secretaria: Tel. + 52 (755) 55-4-80-52, Email: contacto@musicayvoces. com, for the Choir: Karina: + 52 (755) 55-4-48-56, or visit their website www.musicayvoces.com

By Lorenzo Marbut

ith the world economy in tatters, Sailfest raised a remarkable 654,320 pesos for its Mexican non-profit, Por Los Niños de Zihuatanejo, A.C. Por Los Niños will continue to work in partnership with the City of Zihuatanejo and Rotary International to provide educational opportunities for disadvantaged children in Zihua and surrounding communities. Zihua’s finest musicians and their International Guitar Festival friends have donated their talent to produce another fabulous CD, “Sounds of Zihua 2009.” Their three CDs and four benefit concerts have netted approximately 400,000 pesos for the kids. Imagine, building classrooms with voices and guitars. What a concept! The CDs are available at these communityspirited businesses: Casa Cafe, Sunset Bar & Grill, Casa Del Faro Bar, Jungle Pizza and the Inn at Manzanillo Bay. On March 16th, Zihuatanejo will celebrate Mexico’s newest Federally-certified bilingual, indigenous school. After an eight-year struggle for recognition, the old Nueva Creacion primary school will be reborn as La Escuela Primaria Octavio Paz, named after Mexico’s cherished Nobel Prize-winning diplomat, poet, philosopher and human rights champion. The eleven classroom school serves 320 bright-eyed young scholars and was built entirely with funds donated by Sailfest, the local community and international friends. For more infromation on Por Los Niños, Contact: Lorenzo Marbut, home: 755-554-2115, cell: 755-102-4463, Lorenzo@ porlosninos.info

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Upcoming Events

By Catherine Krantz Photo by Steve Johnson

ow in its sixth year,The Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival brings a diverse group of acclaimed international musicians to beautiful IxtapaZihuatanejo, for a week of live music in paradise. With a wide selection of genres represented: classical, country, rock, alternative, flamenco, jazz, latin and world music, among others, there is something for every taste. A full week of music offering four concerts during the week, a sampler opening concert, a children’s concert for Zihuatanejo school children and children of all ages, a closing concert, and the finale, a free-to-the-public showcase on Zihuatanejo’s main square; Two Gala dinner shows will be held at two of Zihuatanejo’s most romantic spots with breath taking views overlooking Zihuatanejo bay, and the exclusive Gala sunset cruise, touring Zihuatanejo bay on a sailing catamaran. Sure to please even the most dedicated live music enthusiast, there will be multiple bar shows nightly, in central Zihuatanejo bars and restaurants during the week. The hardest part of the week will be in deciding whom to see next. Buy an all-access Platinum Pass for around 100 U.S. dollars and see them all. 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. The entire festival is staffed by volunteers, the musicians donate their time, and most everything is donated from within the community, giving the fest a warm welcoming vibe. The Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival showcases world-class live music in small intimate venues and has been getting rave reviews since its inception in 2004. The fest has amassed a loyal following among audience and artists alike, and is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. For more information see the festival websites www.zihuafest.info www.zguitarfest. wordpress.com www.youtube.com/zguitarfest or email info@zihuafest.info

The Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival 2009 Line-Up Diego Arturo Arias Ángel, Mexico - Classical Arina Burcéva, Ukraine Contemporary Classical Cienfue, Panama - Rock, Latin Philip Claypool, USA - Country, Blues Jose Luis Cobo, Mexico - Latin Mark Wayne Glasmire, USA - Singer/ songwriter, Country César González Chico, Mexico - Singer/ Songwriter, Acoustic Pat Guadagno, USA - Americana, Folk Stan Hirsch, USA - Blues Jenny Kerr & Phil Milner, USA - Americana, Blues Josie Kuhn, USA & Mexico Americana, Singer/Songwriter Jimi Mamou, USA & Mexico - Blues Eric McFadden, USA Alternative, Gypsy-Blues Los Pistoleros, USA Flamenco Nuevo, World Anaid Rosales Santiago, Mexico - Classical Roger & Valerie Scannura, Malta & Canada - Latin, World, with Flamenco dance performance Patrick Sweany, USA - Americana, Blues Doug Towle and De La Terra, Canada Latin, New Age/Ambient Nick Vigarino, USA - Blues, Funk Drew Wright, Canada Singer/Songwriter, Rock Juanito Zihua, Mexico - Latin

ZIGF 2009 Schedule MAR 22: 11am-2pm - Meet The Artist Brunch & Press Conference, Coconuts Restaurant, Central Zihuatanejo, 200 pesos. MAR 22: 5pm – 12am - Opening Concert in Ixtapa, at Plaza Ixpamar (Gian Frank Center), Doors Open at 5pm, Shows starts at 6pm, 200 pesos. 5.

MAR 23: 7pm – 10pm – Gala Dinner, La Cala, Puerto Mio on the water, Zihuatanejo, 250 pesos, reservations required 755-544-6176, 544-6177. Mar 23 – 27: 8pm – 11pm – Bar Shows, El Sanka Grill, Paccolos, Sunset, Garrobos, Caprichos, Central Zihuatanejo, 75 pesos. Mar 24, 26: 11pm – 1am – Bar Shows, El Canto de las Sirenas, Zihuatanejo, 75 pesos. Mar 25: 7pm – 10pm – Gala Dinner, Picante Sailboat cruise on the bay, Zihuatanejo, 250 pesos, reservations required 755-554-2694 Mar 26: 1:30pm – 5pm - Children’s concert, Central Social, central Zihuatanejo, Free. Mar 27: 7pm – 10pm – Gala Dinner, Villa Vera, Puerto Mio - on top of the hill, Zihuatanejo, 250 pesos, reservations required 755-553-8165, 5538166 Mar 28: 5pm – 12am - Closing Concert in Zihuatanejo, at El Pueblito Restaurant, Zihuatanejo, Doors Open at 6pm, Shows starts at 7pm, 200 pesos. Mar 29: 6pm – 10pm – Zocalo Public Concert, Playa Principal Central Zihuatanejo’s main plaza, Free. *prices include cover charges only, food and beveraregs are extra.

Virgin of Guadalupe Day exhibition at Coconuts restaurant

Aven Dawson and mom, Gloria Bellack, Bill Underwood, Catherine Krantz, Coconuts’ Debbie Mione, Nicho artist Laura Rodriguez, Chef Noe, Logan Eisele

Guitar Fest Wine Tasting Fund Raiser at Caprichos Grill

Linda Fox, Lisa Martin, Anne Peterson, Leigh Chapman, Ana Della Marina, Glenda Thompson

Owen Lee’s Birthday at his Las Gatas Beach Club Jimi Mamou, Esthela Buenaventura, Owen Lee

Virgin of Guadalupe themed Group Exhibition at ZIH Galeria Exhibiting Ataists with friends & family Former Director of Tourism Guliermo Catalan, Former Mayor Silvan Blanco, Galerioa Owner Luz Machado, husband Rafael Baledon, and artisst Al;fred Tapia presenting one of his paintings. Miguel De Quevedo, Julio Venavides, Luz Machado Gloria Hernandez, Andrea Camacho

10th Anniversary of Lois Brown’s Chick Party at Casa Sol

Heather Hiebert,center in blue, with fans of her Chick Party hats

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CLASSIFIEDS

Power Boats opens new location at Ixtapa Marina Inauguration Cocktail at Che Mangiamo

Power Boats, S.A. de C.V. out of Monterrey, opens new Ixtapa Sales Branch to join the others In Guadalajara, Puerta Vallarta & Culiacan. Carmen & Tim Sullivan Robin Bashbush and Marielena Conde De Diaz

Helmut Leins’ Birthday at The Tides

Gavino Freite, Adriana Gutierrez, Ericka & Helmut Leins, Araceli Galeana, Rocio Madrazo, Mr.&Mrs. McKeen, Diana and Matthew Kelly. Edmond Benloulou, Amelia Gomez, Andrea Camacho, Miguel de Quevedo

Dan Leo, Catherine Krantz, Cindee Leo, Judith Whitehead, Malcolm and Paula Bowman, Ericka & Helmut Leins

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Acapulco Bay. Photo by Nadine Markova

you southeast on a winding, frequently coasthugging route that eventually deposits you on the city’s main tourism artery, the Costera Miguel Aleman, roughly 150 miles from Zihuatanejo.

the moment it vanishes and not daring to tear your eyes away during the two minutes it takes the sun to drop out of sight once its lower edge “touches” the water.

It’s almost eerie viewing Acapulco Bay from the shoreline, realizing what you’re seeing is Zihuatanejo Bay’s much larger, much glitzier sister. Acapulco Bay stretches for almost seven miles from west to east, far longer than our little crescent, but the shape is similar, and the Sierra Madre del Sur mountain range adds definition to the area’s geographical contours – just as it does here. Also known as La Bahia de Santa Lucia, the bay is three miles long from north to south and between 45 to 180 feet deep.

With a population approaching two million, Acapulco is about 16 times bigger than IxtapaZihuatanejo, and the tourism options – nearly all of which cluster around the bay itself – offer something for every budget.You can snag a low-cost room in the “old town” area near the zócalo for around 200 pesos a night per couple, where entertainment in the form of outdoor racket that’ll keep you up until the wee hours of the morning is thrown in at no extra charge. Or, you can head way out to the Revolcadero Beach area near the airport at the far eastern end of the bay and plunk down several thousand pesos to experience places like the Acapulco Princess or the Mayan Palace. In between and farther afield, there are half a dozen different “Acapulcos” to explore.

One of the two places I know to see a similar sight in Acapulco proper is La Angosta (“Narrow”) Beach, located on the west side of Peninsula de las Playas at the western edge of the bay. Popular with locals, it isn’t far from world-famous La Quebrada, where clavadistas (“divers”) daily risk their lives challenging the currents by hurtling 140 feet down off a sheer cliff after praying repeatedly at the much-used Virgin of Guadalupe shrine while viewers wonder whether they’ll chicken out or take the plunge.

You can drive to Acapulco in a little more than three hours, or you can take a comfy first class bus that’ll get you there in four to five hours for 133 pesos. Buses leave frequently, but if you don’t want to stop at every little town along the way and spend six hours traveling, make sure you’re not boarding an economico coach. Whichever method you choose, Highway 200 – newly dubbed Ruta 2010 -- will take

If you’re a sunset lover, you might want to veer off Highway 200 about eight miles shy of Acapulco at Pie de la Cuesta on your southeasterly journey from Zihuatanejo. This laid-back little community boasts some of the best puestas del sol (“sunsets”) to be seen anywhere in Mexico…the kind where you watch an orange ball of flame descend into the sea, hoping to see that splotch of green at

capulco! Some people love it, some people hate it, but everybody’s heard about it. Once the glamour capital of Mexico, its reputation has faded somewhat with the passage of time, but heading there shows you -- on a much grander scale -- what COULD happen if the current construction boom in Zihuatanejo keeps going at its present breakneck pace.

The other great sunset place is Sinfonia del Mar, an outdoor amphitheater built specifically for folks to gaze at the dying sun. It’s only a short walk from La Quebrada and is often surrounded by vendors hoping to make a sale while sightseers impatiently wait for Mother Nature’s show to begin. Lots of reasonably priced lodgings around here too, many with that free entertainment bonus (think dueling car radios) mentioned earlier. Peninsula de las Playas is also home to such oldies but goodies as Hotel Caleta, where a friend and I recently stayed for 500 pesos a night during the off season. Mind you, it took three tries before we found a room we were happy with, but once ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

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installed, we were charmed watching the action from our ninth floor balcony. You could see Roqueta Island at the mouth of the bay through binoculars, and you could wander through this grand old property that still exhibits vestiges of splendor from its halcyon days half a century ago. The zócalo is on the mainland north of the peninsula at the west end of the bay. You can spend hours hanging out at one of many restaurants near the dome-topped Nuestra Señora de la Soledad cathedral and watching everything from jugglers, mimes, and clowns to concerts, beauty contests and political rallies. There are, predictably, scads of tiendas (“shops”) to check out. Although – like here --the majority of goods don’t vary much from place to place, patience and tenacity can often reward you with a treasure you never thought to find. My favorite way to explore the miles-long Costera Miguel Aleman paralleling the entire length of the bay is on foot. Start right across the street from the zócalo where fishing and sightseeing boats offer their services, continue on past the cruise ship terminal and the Fort of San Diego until you see beach after beach, some of the larger ones being Playa Hornos, Playa Condesa (probably the most popular) and Playa Icacos. Towering tourist hotels, so familiar from pictures of the bay’s profile, often offer online rates significantly discounted from the posted rack rates. Go bungee jumping. Pick your disco for the night. Wander up into the neighborhoods behind the beaches and see the “real” Acapulco where tourism, though so close, doesn’t play much of a role. If you get tired, scores of taxis and plentiful local buses are never further than a minute away. Sometimes you just need a north-of-the-border “fix,” and La Costera, as the locals call if, offers you fast food galore – Burger King, McDonald’s, KFC – plus WalMart and (much further east) Costco. Home Depot’s just across the street from Papagayo Park on Avenida Cuauhtemoc, and Office Max is at the corner where you turn to head uphill to Villa Vera, the “in” place of yesteryear where Elizabeth Taylor married third husband MikeTodd in Suite No. 302 and Frank Sinatra held court entertaining behind what is touted as the first swim-up bar in Mexico. As you proceed east on La Costera, you eventually reach the end of the main bay past the ever-popular Hotel Las Brisas. Still further east you’ll find much smaller Puerto Marques Bay (think Zihuatanejo Bay size-wise.) A recent visit revealed a rather down-at-the-heels pueblo, but one still awash with the kind of views that, under cover of darkness and framed by twinkling lights too numerous to count, transform this rundown locale into a postcard contender. A second peninsula, which forms the easternmost land mass defining the end of the two bays, offers vantage points from the northwest looking out on both Puerto Marques Bay as well as the mouth of Acapulco Bay. Revolcadero Beach, the site of much new development, is on the peninsula’s southeastern fringe and fronts on the mighty Pacific, with the pizazz of the throbbing city pretty much invisible. No matter where you choose to stay, though, you can feel the pulse of the area by taking a stroll. For me, it’s been fascinating turning corners wherever the spirit moves me, practicing my Spanish, touring little out-of-the-way hotels, eating tacos at places that don’t open till eight or nine at night – all the while knowing that if I get hopelessly lost (which is pretty much a given), it won’t be long until one of those taxis I mentioned earlier will swing by to rescue me. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

CLASSIFIEDS ART TROPICAL FLAIR PAINTINGS oils and acrylic picasaweb.com/zihuatgrace, zvacation@hotmail.com SERVICES CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, interior decorating and consulting services. If you are building, remodeling or thinking about building in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area, let us take the stress and worry out of your construction project. Please contact us on the web @ www.zihuaid.com by telephone: 044 (755) 101 9711 or via email: info@zihuaid. com LOOKING FOR AN ARCHITECT AT A GOOD PRICE? Architectural design, interior decoration, projects construction, property sales, furniture design. Contact Juan Elias Pimentel 01 755-113-27-80 for more information. manager1984@hotmail.com MARBLE & GRANITE – Kitchen, Fire places, Baths, Counter Tops, Fabrication, Installation, Free estimates, English Spoken. Gonzalo Blanco Cel. (044) 755-100-9554 , (044) 755-105-1684 ARE YOU A SECOND HOMEOWNER? Casita Care Property Management providing essential services to second homeowners in Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa. We offer property inspections, bill payments, pool maintenance, deep cleaning, pre & post storm inspections and rentals. Contact Rossana Castiglioni at info@casitacare.com Tel. 755-112-1289, from US 01152-755-112-1289, cell 044-755-1026367 locally, www.casitacare.com PATY´S MARIMAR - Whether you are looking for romantic sunsets, great food, happy hour, a yoga studio, a unique terrace for special celebrations or just to get away from it all, Paty´s Marimar has everything for you on Zihuatanejo´s most beautiful beach. Playa La Ropa, next to Villa Mexicana Hotel, 755 554 22 13 PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER – Available for weddings, events, real estate, product and promotional photography. High quality, experienced, professional equipment. Many of my images have appeared in Paradise. Call Nacho, epitacios@hotmail.com cel 755120-6797 THE ULTIMATE COOKING Experience - cooking classes Tuesdays 10:30 - 2. A trained Mexican chef,hand-on experience and authentic Mexican dishes are the perfect recipe for an unforgettable morning. The lesson is followed by a sit-down luncheon with wine; we enjoy the fruits of our labors, a marvelous meal. Al Cilantro, Colina de las Palomas 325, Ixtapa. Tel. 755-553 0610 for reservations.

SURF LESSONS , zihuaadventures@ hotmail.com 011 755 1143531 tropical jungle, morning sunrises PROFESSIONAL COACHING SERVICES, If your chief want in life is to find someone who will make you do what you can --- consider finding a coach! At Venezia Enterprises, we are determined to be that ‘someone.’ We offer a solid professionally certified coaching platform to companies and individuals. For further information email: Camille@veneziaenterprises.com MEXICOHOSPITALITY.COM If you have a house or condo in Mexico, join the new MexicoHospitality.com network to do HOUSE EXCHANGES (simultaneous or not) and HOSPITALITY VISITS (staying in a guestroom or casita for 200 pesos/couple/ night) all over Mexico. More than 100 houses already. Go to mexicohospitality.com for all the details and to see our wonderful houses across Mexico! FELLOWSHIP 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. ZIHUATANEJO CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. Non-denominational English language service every Sunday morning in Zihuatanejo, Contact John &Betty 755-5547178 for more information. RECOVERY “12 STEP HOUSE” English speaking recovery groups. Directly across from the biblioteca (library) on Cuauhtemoc, AAMonday and Friday 6:00 PM NA- Wednesday 6:00 PM. Additional meetings November April. For more info call Tom (755) 112-1919 or Mike cell 044-755-104-4544 SEEKING WORK DEPENDABLE,RESPONSIBLE,Pleasant House Keeper / Clleaner with experience in houses and offices seeks work in Madera , La Ropa areas. References and recommendations available. Call Cynthia at cel. 044-755-1218872 (Spanish) (for English call Catherine at adip 755-544-8023) ADMINISTRATOR / BOOK KEEPER – college student studying Business Administration—looking for part-time Summer job. Some English, reliable, great computer skills, with experience in billing, filing, receptionist. References and recommendations available. Call Leticia at cel. 044-755-100-8144 or publicidad_paradise@hotmail.com ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

RealEstate March 2009

another day in paradise

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

ADiP 46

By John K. Glaab, CIPS

t a ceremony attended by several hundred invited guests, including ten Past Presidents of the Association, Pedro Trueba took the pledge of office as the new President of the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI) The event took place in Mexico City in January.. In addition to President Trueba, Hector Obregon Serrano from Leon, Guanajuato was sworn in as Vice President as were the members of AMPI’s 21 member National Advisory Board. Members of the Board serve for two years and then new members replace those retiring. They represent a broad cross section of the country and the current Board has members from cities such as Mexicali, Baja California; Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Merida, Yucatan; Chihuahua , Chihuahua and of course the Federal District

The event took place at the Hotel Sheraton Maria Isabel and was followed by a reception at the HSBC Banking Tower in Mexico City. It was presided over by Carlos Gutierrez Ruiz. He is the director of VIVIENDA, Mexico’s National Housing Commission.. Earlier in the day, the Presidents of AMPI Sections (there are now 55 throughout the country) met to discuss events in their Sections and trade ideas. At another very special session the members of the 2006-2008 National Advisory Board approved the ACTA (Constitution) for ICAMPI (Instituto de Capatacion of AMPI) AMPI’s new Training Institute. Three members including two past presidents, Oscar Batiz and Galo Blanco were elected as members of the

Board of Directors for the Institute for five year terms along with Linda Neil of AMPI La Paz. Linda served on AMPI’s National Advisory Board from 2000-2002 and from 2006-2008. 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 is also Vice President of International Marketing and Public Relations Director for the Settlement Company For further information, contact John at john.glaab@ settlement-co.com

By Linda Neil

hat is a Fiduciary?

This term is most commonly used in Mexico to describe the bank which holds the title if you are purchasing a property in a Mexican bank trust, a fideicomiso. However the word has another very important meaning for those who are buying property in Mexico. The Fiduciary also refers to the person who takes on the responsibility to represent YOU, and your interests in a business transaction. If you are visiting in Mexico and have fallen in love with the lifestyle and possibly a lot or a home, it is very important to find a Buyer’s Agent to represent your interests in the transaction. This means that the agent you select should disclose all facts to you and should be open and truthful in all matters regarding the properties you are considering. He or she should put YOUR interests and needs ahead of the seller’s and ahead of his own. The buyer’s agent has a FIDUCIARY duty to represent you in the transaction. Conflict of Interest Many times, we have heard,“Oh, but the seller’s agent is so NICE! I am sure he/she will represent my interests!” How will that be possible? The seller, for sure, will expect to receive the highest amount possible and the most advantageous terms for the sale of the property. The buyer wants to buy at the lowest possible price, and with as many benefits and amenities as possible. How is one agent, negotiating between buyer and seller, going to be able to obtain all of this for buyer and seller? Smells like conflict of interest to me! It is also important to remember that real estate agents in Mexico do not have the same responsibility under Mexican law, to fully disclose problems and defects to potential buyers and sellers. There is also less government control in this area. The buyer’s agent who has the fiduciary duty to represent your interests should, of course, treat all parties honestly and fairly. But, the buyer’s agent will more than likely not have any listings. This is important to avoid a potential dual agency (problem!) situation. Everything he/she shows you will be listings handled by other agents and/or companies. An additional advantage for using the buyer’s agent is

that they look at the ENTIRE market, including For Sale By Owner properties. Better yet, if you drive by an attractive property with a sign on it, or locate something on the internet, your buyer’s agent should be prepared to research it, obtain information about it for you and draft and negotiate an offer on your behalf. Selecting your Agent: Make a conscious decision to acquire any property ONLY through an agent who is committed to representing only your interests and not those of the seller. Your Buyer’s agent should also be a member of AMPI, the Mexican Real Estate Association. In preliminary viewings of property, thank the agent showing the property, for his time, and explain that if you have further interest you will have your agent contact her. Find the agent!! Interview several who appeal to you, ask for a resume of past business experience and references. Ideally, the agent you select will be a member of AMPI and the National Association of Realtors (NAR)

and will have obtained the Accredited Buyer Representative designation awarded by NAR. Once you feel comfortable with the person selected to represent YOU, expect to sign some sort of simple agreement in which terms of the representation are outlined. Advantages of Working with a Buyer’s Representative: Working with a Buyer’s Agent can save the buyer time by: Helping determine the amount that can be spent and exploring financing options. Previewing properties, and verifying property condition Suggesting important inspections by experts. Verifying property taxes, utilities, verifying value. Structuring an Offer Presenting the offer to the Seller and/or Seller’s representative Negotiating favorable contract terms for the Buyer Overseeing preparation of documents for transfer.

A good buyer’s representative will persevere, has solid negotiating skills, is on the BUYER’S side and, best of all, generally costs the buyer nothing in commissions since the sales commission is shared with the seller’s agent! Linda Neil is a partner in Linda Neil Properties and founder of The Settlement Company, the first escrow company in Mexico, which is dedicated to processing the trusts and title transfers of Mexican real estate for foreign buyers and sellers for properties located anywhere in Mexico. Ms. Neil is also licensed as a Real Estate Broker in California, is an Accredited Buyer Representative through NAR, and has over thirty five years of hands on experience in all aspects of Mexican real estate. She holds membership in AMPI, NAR and FIABCI and PROFECO Certificate 00063/96. E-Mail;linda@lindaneil.com and website: http://www.lindaneil.com .

Casa de la Sirena House of the Mermaid

Private Beachfront Vacation Rentals Troncones, Mexico

Very Private. Very Luxurious. Very Romantic. Private 3 bedroom Villa with private pool 2-story bungalows 1-bedroom mini villas

Pool, open air kitchens/living areas, WiFi, air conditioning Perfect for a romantic get-away, beachfront weddings, family reunions,corporate retreats. Rent one suite or the entire compound for a perfect get-away. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

www.casadelasirena.net or www.houseofthemermaid.com

Welcome to Paradise. 2-story Condo with beautiful Ocean Views at Selva Del Mar in Ixtapa. (near Las Brisas) Very private and tranquil. Caretakers on premises. Master Suite upstairs, Sleeps 4, Rates: $700/wk high season DecApr, $350/wk low season, $1100/wk Holidays nicatnit@aol.com US Tel. 001 (574) 320-1160.

Trapiche Ixtapa #101 3 bdrm, 3 bath luxury apt. 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. $415,000 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@ prodigy.net.mx www.ixtaparealestate.com

Apt with garden & pool view. 2 Bdrm, 2 bath, dining room, equipped kitchen, terrace in nice private condo complex, Real de Palmas, with a tranquil environment and extensive green areas, pool and beach. Just right for an pleasant vacation or for a long stay enjoying sun, sea and tranquility in paradise. For more information: M. Silvya al cel. 755 108 2090, marsylvia11@prodigy.net.mx

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

Watch property tour videos of select properties on our property tour blog site: www.adippproperties.wordpress.com

For Sale Troncones - 8 secluded bay lots, approx. 8,000 ‘ 9,000 sq.. ft. $175,000 - 295,000 USD. Inquire at Mi Casa Su Casa Hotel or www.micasasucasa.ws

CondominioTucan Ixtapa, 3 recamaras,dos baños, amueblado,alberca, cancha de tenis, sala, comedor, cuarto de servicio con baño, estacionamiento, seguridad 24 hrs. $1,500,000 pesos. Best Properties, www.bestproperties.com.mx, ventas@ bestproperties.com.mx, bestpropertiesixtapa@ yahoo.com.mx, Tel. 755-553-1428, 755-553-1429.

VILLA IN CONDOS TESORO: Comfortably decorated, excellently maintained interior. 4 Bdrms, 4 Bathrooms, living room, Dining Room, Equipped Kitchen, wash room, covered car port, terraces, Jacuzzi in master bedroom. Contact Sylvia for information (755)108-20-90

Marina Del Sol Ixtapa #201a Spacious, 2nd floor apartment for rent in Family oriented Complex with 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths. Excellent beach front location with beach front infinity swimming pool with wading pool, beach palapas and more. For rates & availability contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@ prodigy.net.mx

Condominio Bugambilias Ixtapa, 2 recamaras, 1 baño, Vista al Campo de Golf, alberca, estacionamiento, amueblado, sala, comedor, jardienes comunes. $ 130,000 USD. Best Properties, www. bestproperties.com.mx, ventas@bestproperties. com.mx, bestpropertiesixtapa@yahoo.com.mx, Tel. 755-553-1428, 755-553-1429.

www.casadelaspiedras.com Eco-tourism bungalows Play La Ropa Beach Live in nature!

Doce Soles #1A This 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath garden apartment located in the Contramar area of Ixtapa is an excellent option for the prospective buyer looking for prime location, quality construction and panoramic vistas. Offered furnished at $397,500 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Condominio Bay View Grand 4 recamaras, 5 baños, cuarto de servicio, cocina completamente equipada,centro de lavado, terraza con jacuzzi. Servicios: club de playa, estacionamiento, seguridad 24 hrs, acceso a playa, spa, gym,sala de juegos 750,000 USD Best Properties, www.bestproperties. com.mx,ventas@bestproper ties.com.mx, bestpropertiesixtapa@yahoo.com.mx, Tel. 755-5531428, 755-553-1429.

New Private Home. 200sq mts on large lot 2,500sq mts. 20mins from Zihuatanejo, walking distance to Barra de Potosi Lagoon. 33mts beach front, 2master bed 21/2bath, large loft, living, dinning, kitchen. 150sq mts pool area and 50sq mts garage-utility. Landscaped, plus. contact: casahijole@yahoo.com.mx

Watch property tour videos of select properties on our property tour blog site: www.adippproperties.wordpress.com

For Sale - Casa Que Ve Al Mar - One of two listings in the best condo development in our area. Two BR, 2 bath, laundry room, a/c, large terrace with fabulous view, on property workout room, 2 infinity pools, private parking space, and excellent rental property. Listed at US$375,000 Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, www. paradise-properties.com.mx/, Tel. (52) 755 554 6226

Tesoro Resort Ixtapa #619 Two-bedroom, onebath w/ shower, sixth-floor, beach front apartment with ample, equipped kitchen, living-dining areas, 2 balconies with western exposure and sunset views. Offered as is with furniture and equipment. $215,000 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

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

Executive Style Home on a 1633 m2 beachfront lot at Playa Miramar Mexico 45 min. N of Ixtapa. This home is newly constructed with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, solid timber doors, aircon in all bedrooms, modern kitchen and with 180 degree sea views. It is ready for occupancy right now. If you want a new home or an investment look no further. www.playamiramar.net Ph 753 537 4174 Mex Cel, Ph 254 258 8800 US cel glennmexico@hotmail.com

Beach Lots For Sale. Playa Miramar is a beach front development 45 min. N of Ixtapa. Lots from $45,000 to $250,000 and from 870 m2 to 1800 m2 w/ water and power. Can be for a new home or pure investment property values in the area have seen dramatic increases in the last five years. Is an amazing opportunity. www.playamiramar. net Ph 753 537 4174 Mex Cel, Ph 254 258 8800 US cel glennmexico@hotmail.com

Steal This Beachfront Lot - Owner needs cash and will sell 1/4 acre lot with water, electricity, access and environmental permit for $125,000 US. Located on Buenavista beach near Ixtapa. Email John Murphy at john@mexicobeachproperty.com or call (755) 554-0719 in Zihuatanejo.

Playa La Ropa Bed and Breakfast - 11 bedroom bed and breakfast hotel offered for sale at $695,000 USD near La Ropa Beach. This is an excellent opportunity to own your business in Zihuatanejo and live in paradise year round. Contact John Murphy at 755-554-0719 for information.

Luxury Home on Troncones Beach - Large 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath, 3 car garage beachfront home with pool on 1/2 acre double lot with 135 feet of sandy frontage offered at $2.4 million US. Great architecture. Separate apartment for help. Call John Murphy in Zihuatanejo (755) 554-0719 or email john@mexicobeachproperty.com. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

JUDITH WHITEHEAD

Paradise Properties

For Sale - Cerro del Vigìa Model Home - Another Enrique Zozaya jewel! 2 or 3 BR, 3 Bath designer home perched above the bay, or build your own on a lot of your choosing with views to Las Gatas or Barra de Potosi and Playa Blanca. Listed at US$615,000

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$150,000.

For Sale - El Secreto del Mar - The most interesting new house on the market in a very private setting overlooking the the Bay and La Ropa Beach (above “The Tides Hotel”). Just a hop, skip and a jump to the sandy beach. A creation of noted architect Luis Treviño, this 2 BR, 2-1/2 bath with large infinity pool and adjoining wood deck is unique in design as well as price. Listed at US$750,000.

For Sale - Villas del Vigìa - 2 BR - 2 bath condos, finished interiors, each with private minipool on its terrace. best views in all directions. Model open daily. The only “green” development in Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo. Gated community, tennis courts, jogging path, An idyllic lifestyle is yours in Cerro del Vigìa. Starting at US$385,000.

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.

For Sale Casa Cielo - Simply the most extraordinary house in the whole of ZihuatanejoIxtapa. 5 bedrooms, plus maid’s room and bath, 5 small pools on bedroom terraces, state of the art entertainment and house control systems. With a view to die for overlooking the bay, La Ropa and to the ocean. Listed at US$5M

For Sale Casa Zih - Only 6 condos in this new development above The Tides and La Ropa, lrg. terraces w/perfect views and only 5 min. walk to beach. 3 available: a PH, a 3 BR and a 2 BR & studio. Gated and secure, elevator bldg., large infinity pool with sunning terrace and shaded pool leisure area. PH: US$750,000, 3 BR: US$575,000 & 2BR w/Studio: US$575,000

Residencias Villa del Sol - The most prestigious address in La Ropa Beach and a charming 1-bedroom condo that is the perfect hideaway with all the services of The Tides, including beach rights, pools and restaurants. This one is completely furnished and priced to sell at US$250,000.

Betseyville - Betsey Johnson has created the whimsy that is her signature but this time in a perfectly charming hideaway in Playa Blanca 4 BR, 2 pools, steps to the beach. Walled for privacy. Listed at US$600,000

Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078 www.paradise-properties.com.mx Find us at our new location at Paseo de los Delfines No. 6 ©Another Day in Paradise ®, (across from the entrance to “The Tides”), Col. La Ropa, Zihuatanejo, Gro. Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Watch property tour videos of select properties on our property tour blog site: www.adippproperties.wordpress.com

Doce Soles Penthouse. Condo divided in 2 levels of 120 m2, on the hill overlooking the private beach of Las Brisas hotel & El Palmar beach in Ixtapa. Exclusive complex of 12 apartments, w/infinity pool that calmly merges with the Mexican Pacific. 3 BDRM each w/bathroom. Main BDRM has a terrace with a breathtaking view. Upper level liv-din rm w/ priceless view and sunsets. For a guided visit, call Jacqueline Rodríguez Viva La Playa realtors, Teléfono y Fax: (755) 54 4-66-70 Mobile (755) 120 14 96 FOR ENGLISH

NEW! Villa Festiva ~ the jewel at the waters edge Brand new beachfront hideaway for RENT. Loose yourself in the luxury and comfort of a resort with the barefoot tranquility and authentic charm of exotic traditional Mexico. Three private and romantic king size suites. Palapa bar and infinity pool. Wifi. Full size kitchens in each villa. A/C. www.villafestiva.com or call 916-9977669 US.

For Rent. Penthouse Costa Bella. Prety P.H 80m2 with I BDRM, king size bed & I 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 and cel 755 120 2730

Casa vista paraiso. The expansive view from every room of the three level master piece is sweeping, unobstructed and complete. Truly a view of paradise. For information about a unique ownership opportunity: Contact, Jacqueline Rodríguez Viva la playa realtors, Teléfono y fax: (755) 54 4-66-70 telcel (755) 120 14 96 for english

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.

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 4967 and cel 755 120 2730

Bay View Grand Residential Condominium Take advantage of this unique opportunity Spacious and luxurios Get Away, four complete furnished bedrooms, full Resort Amenities Breathtaking views of unmatched playa El Palmar.For a guided visit please call... Jacqueline Rodriguez Viva La Playa realtors, Teléfono y Fax: (755) 54 4-66-70 mobile (755) 120 14 96 FOR ENGLISH

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 Rent bungalows costa bella Wonderful bungalows costa bella, in a nice private development, only 7 rooms on playa la ropa. By the month special rates week or day. www.costabellazih.com Tel 755 554 4967 and cel 755 120 2730

Watch property tour videos of select properties on our property tour blog site: www.adippproperties.wordpress.com

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. Excellent for Building Apts, Hotel or House. Priced to Move at $550,000, for information Call (755) 553 02 23

2 Beach Front Lots located in center of Troncones commercial zone. Approx. 10,000ft. $395,000.00 (Map) Build your Hotel or Bed and Breakfast here. For info: www.micasasucasa.ws

14 Room Hotel in Troncones, located in the center of the commercial district. 4 bungalows, 5 king suites, 3 family suites and 1 - 2 bedroom executive suite. All with great views. Built in 2004. Fully furnished. Fabulous Steak House. Art Store (inventory sold separate) Full gym and parking access (located across the street) $2.5 ML (USD) For info: www.micasasucasa.ws

2brm, 2bath, 11th Floor Beachfront Condo For Sale! Located at the luxurious Bay View Grand Residencial Ixtapa. With breathtaking view of the ocean and sunset. Infinity pools, 24-hour security, Gym, Spa, and much more! $249,900 U.S. dollars. Fully furnished! Valentin Zaragoza. Cell. (755) 101 9842. Phone (755) 552 6645. valentin@ixtapaconnection. com www.ixtapaconnection.com

Ixtapa Palma Real Golf Course Spacious Home for Sale – Walking distance to beach. 4 bdrm, 4 bath + maid’s room. Large swimming pool, walled with secure off street parking for 3. Airy 2-story, 350 sq mt/ approx. 3,500 sqft. US $ 350,000. Ixtapa Cel. 755-100-4725, casaixtapa@hotmail.com

Apartment in pleasant prívate complex, Real de Palmas, with a tranquil environment and extensive green spaces with beach. The apt is just what a small family or couple needs to spend a long season enjoying the sun, sea, and tranquility of this Mexican paradise. 1 BDRM, 2 bath, living room, equipped kitchen, balcony. Contact M. Sylvia for information cel. 755-108-2090, marsylvia11@prodigy.net.mx

New private home. 200sq mts on large lot 2,500sq mts. 20 mins from Zihuatanejo, walking distance to Barra de Potosí Lagoon. 33mts beach front, landscaped, 2 master bed, 2 1/2 bath, large loft, living, dinning, kitchen. 150sq mts pool area and 50sq mts. garage-utility. Landscaped, plus. Contact: casahijole@yahoo.com.mx

Super Cheap Summer Rental - 2 bdrm, 1 bath, no frills Apt, walking Distance to the Beach in large secure complex, with parking. Unfurnished, $4000 pesos month, Furnished w/A/C & Hot Water $5000 pesos per month. Available through September/ October. Call Catherine 755 544-8023, info@adip.info,

65 luxury Marina Front Condos from 861 to 1668 square feet with terrace and roof garden. Your best option to enjoy the Marina in Ixtapa. www.mareiaixtapa.com Paseo Ixtapa Lote 7, Marina Ixtapa, Ixtapa-Zihuatanjeo, (755) 553–3868, 553-3850