BEST'S Golf Guide to the Mexican Riviera by Charles Kinder

Cover: Vista Vallarta by Jack Nicklaus

MAZATLAN - PUNTA MITA - VALLARTA - COSTA ALEGRE - MANZANILLO - ACAPULCO

MEXICAN RIVIERA | TEN WORLD CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSES

Publisher’s Letter Dear Golf Amigos, This issue of BEST’s Golf Guide to the Mexican Riviera has taken a swing for the BEST. We have made an effort to offer more stylistic pages with fascinating stories and up-to-date information on what is new in Golf in Mexico. Our current, updated Golf directories are favorites of many adventuresome golfers. Featured in this issue is Jack Nicklaus, named BEST Golf Course Architect in Mexico for the third consecutive year. Another highlight: Gary Player enters his hat on the green with a beautiful new golf course at CostaBaja Resort & Marina in La Paz, set to open in 2009. Recently, I had a chance to sit down and interview this year’s run-a-way superstar, or more precicely, “fairway” superstar; the world’s #1 female golfer LORENA OCHOA. She is truly fantastic! Talented, warm and friendly - a very bright star in the world of golf, indeed. Our main feature article covers Golf Course Communities – Real Estate in Mexico. The article showcases up-to-date information for your education and enjoyment. With forty new golf course communities in Mexico; it is a great opportunity to enjoy and be part of this highgrowth area for investors, consumers and golfers from around the world. The 2008 Annual Tianguis conference on tourism for Mexico this year was vibrant with enthusiasm and great energy. It seems as though Mexico is not fully

dependent on the US Golf travelers caught up in the sub-prime melt down. Although there are some signs of off-peak tourism, the Europeans - along with their strong Euro - are traveling in record numbers and coming to the land of bargains with their purchasing power. In the months to come, we will see pricing reductions and added value: 4th or 7th night free incentives for the lower priced rooms and the mid-market. As for the luxury buyer, most five star and grand tourismo resorts are doing quite well. Another indicator that the high end has resistance; Cabo del Sol, the most expensive 18 hole resort course in Mexico was the only golf course in Los Cabos to have an increase in rounds played in the first quarter of 2008 vs. 2007. Travel to Mexico now for the BEST value for Golf, Hotels and Real Estate. Plan now for the fall, as well as next winter’s golf travel season. Many world class courses offer quality off-season value-priced packages, now online at: www.best4mexicoteetimes.com Remember, you can always view BEST’s Golf Guides to Mexico online, by visiting: www.golfguidetomexico.com/digital For more up-to-date information regarding golf and golf resorts in Mexico, go to: www.golfinmexico.net Grab a friend and head south for world class golf in Mexico.

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA 1540 South Coast Highway, # 206 Laguna Beach, California 92651 USA (949) 494-8561 • (949) 494-9292 fax www.golfinmexico.net PUBLISHER

Charles Kinder ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Fabiola Thébaud - Kinder ART DIRECTOR, DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Chris Partida EDITOR

Maria Ring SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Vera Alvarez del Castillo Jaime Alvarez del Castillo Enrique Castellanos Marta Cereghino Ralph Coster Carlos Hampe Sho Kaneko John Lara Jose Antonio Murillo Cayetana De Regil ADVERTISING SALES OFFICES USA

Eleanor Kreis (949) 494-8561 Cancún

Paola de Maria y Campos (984) 119-8766 Guadalajara

Andrés Castellanos (333) 640-1180 Los Cabos

Ricardo Torres (624) 143-9093

Best regards,

Puerto Vallarta

Carlos Farias (322) 225-8158

Chuck Kinder, CTC Publisher

OUR GRATITUDE TO: EVA EVANS, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

To advertise in Best’s Golf Guides, visit: www.golfguidetomexico.com GGMRWS08

Left to right: Christianne Kinder: Future LPGA star. Chuck Kinder, CTC: Publisher of BEST'S Golf Guides to Mexico. Lorena Ochoa: #1 female golfer in the world.

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Published semi-annually by Golf Publishing International, a California Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission from Golf Publishing International. Every effort was made to insure the accuracy of the material presented. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions of data for golf courses, facilities, resorts or rates. Copyright 2008.

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

CLUBCORP LATINAMERICA

> A DRIVING FORCE IN MEXICO GOLF < ClubCorp owns and operates nearly 200 golf courses, country clubs, private business clubs and golf resorts. ClubCorp leadership style consists of a superb approach to client satisfaction and provides golf courses and club facilities with upscale amenities. ClubCorp, one of the world’s leading golf club management groups, has two outstanding property locations in Mexico; Cozumel and Puerto Vallarta.

VISTA VALLARTA CLUB DE GOLF (Puerto Vallarta, State of Jalisco) Three great golf courses and one great destination add up to Puerto Vallarta. ClubCorp’s development of Vista Vallarta Tom Weiskopf 7,009-yard, par 72 golf course, and the Vista Vallarta Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course combined with the Marina Vallarta Golf Course create a premier 54-hole golf experience. Enjoy the natural features of rugged terrain, ravines, and mature trees of the 18-hole Weiskopf course or play the Nicklaus Signature Course, 18-hole, 6,595 yard, par 72, with the challenges and dramatic changes in elevations that confronted the players in the prestigious 2002 World Golf Championships-EMC World Cup. The Marina Vallarta Golf Course has a magnificent view of Banderas Bay and features natural lagoons, obstacles of palm trees and tropical shrubs and an abundance of wildlife with two ocean holes. This Joe Finger designed course has become increasingly popular in the last few years with locals and international tourists.

Location Puerto Vallarta Course 18 hole Nicklaus, 18 hole Weiskopf, and 18 hole Joe Finger Contact K.C. Crandall, PGA Professional, Director of Golf for the Vista Vallarta Golf Complex. From US 011-52-322-290-0030, www.foremexico.com

COZUMEL COUNTRY CLUB (Cozumel, State of Quintana Roo) World Class diving and now World Class golf! 18 holes carved out of dense jungle and showcasing inland lagoons, red mangroves, and four sets of tees to suit any player. The 6,734 yard, par 72 course was designed by the Nicklaus Design Group and is owned and operated by ClubCorp International. Amenities include a full practice facility, golf shop, club rental, shoe rental, and palapa style clubhouse with snack bar and seating for 40. This course is a favorite stop for golf cruise passengers. Free and discounted green fee packages are available at several of the island hotels.

Location Cozumel Course 18 hole, jungle, Nicklaus Contact Benny Campos, PGA Professional, Manager of Cozumel Country Club. From US 011-52-987-872-9570, info@cozumelcountryclub.com.mx

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

Vista Vallarta by Jack Nicklaus

WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

HEROES OF GOLF IN MEXICO Interview by Charles Kinder

Mexico’s BEST

LORENA OCHOA You are on top of your game, the leading money winner and 8 time winner last year. You have a wonderful reputation of being one of the nicest golfers ever; both humble and realistic. Universally, Mexicans have the reputation of being warm and friendly but you are more so. To what do you attribute your attitude and congeniality? Well, Thank you. I think being this way, it has been a process. I think to be able to get here, where I am today, it is not just a couple of weeks or months but many many years of hard work in order to be number one today. 2007 was a wonderful season. I enjoy my life very much on the tour. I have lots of friends and it brings me a lot of fun and enjoyment. I had the pleasure of meeting you at the Guadalajara Country Club when you where 14. You were diligently on the practice tee all alone. You were already a 5 time world champion. When did you first develop your passion for golf and your desire and ability to WIN? I knew that I wanted to be a professional golfer probably around…maybe 12, 13, or 14. Golf was something that I knew was for me and I wanted to play for the rest of my life. Then I asked what I needed to do…I first played general golf in Mexico. Then I went to the United States for a couple of years to play college golf at the University of Arizona and here I am today! It’s been a great process. Did you have any inspirations in golf as you grew up? Very much, yes. My dad was into the game and introduced me to golf. Then I had my first teacher, Jesus Sandoval at the Guadalajara Country Club and today for sure it’s Raphael Alarcon. He is my teacher and my greatest inspirations. He helps so much both inside and outside of the golf course. It has been a lot of fun to work together. He helps me improve and get a lot better. We both want to get very far and to achieve a lot of goals; so we are working hard. You are a role model and have the opportunity to influence young girls to enter golf as a sport as a way of life. I have my 14 year old daughter here with me today who plays on her High School Team. What is your message to the young golfers in Mexico? Yes, for sure you know I think the best thing is to enjoy very much what you do. I think going outside to the golf course and spending some time there is always a lot of fun. Just try to play some games and really enjoy the afternoon because it 6

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

is a beautiful sport . Don’t be afraid to dream and don’t be afraid to have some high goals… wake up everyday and try very hard to do your best… everything is very possible. I would recommend for everyone to go to college. It is something that really helps you. To me, college was really the most important thing… it got me where I am today. Colleges and universities always have opportunities… Doesn’t really matter as you will be much better after a few years. In 2001, you received the prestigious Mexico National Sports Award as an athlete and the first golfer ever to receive this honor from President Vicente Fox. What did it mean to you? Well, that was very important. It was something that really helped the sport to be more popular in the country. The media got involved, and a lot of friends started to learn to play. I would like to say it was the most important award that I have receive in my career because it really made a difference. It has been great and I am trying for another one. If you weren’t playing golf what would you be doing at 25 years old today? Well that’s a tough question… I never imagine my life outside the golf course… I love teaching; I love to train, maybe a coach, or something like that. Our focus with our Golf Guides is travel and tourism and investments for Golf in Mexico. What are some of your favorite golf courses in Mexico? You know I love the golf courses in Guadalajara. El Rio Country Club a Jack Nicklaus design is right outside of the city, and the Guadalajara Country Club is a beautiful golf course. There are wonderful golf courses in Puerto Vallarta that I really enjoy. I can go there in the off season for some practice so it’s not only about golf. In Mexico, it is a good excuse to go out and play but at the same time the Mexican culture is amazing. You know it has so much to offer and I want to say I am very proud to be Mexican. I think that it is a great country. Mexico is the number ONE golf destination for US golfers…What needs to be done to maintain these positions and attract even more golfers to Mexico? Well for sure it is a great opportunity to enjoy my country and a beautiful way to make a business trip or family vacation. It is always a good escape to take the afternoon or the whole WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

day at the golf course... it gives you so much peace to enjoy this sport and be with your family. The beaches of Mexico are beautiful, with some courses very nearby. Welcome to Mexico, it is a very special place. You are a wonderful ambassador to Mexico. You represent the warmth of the people of Mexico Thank you very much. Thank you. Lorena Ochoa grew up on the greens of Guadalajara Country Club and became FIVE times winner of the Junior World Championship. She is currently ranked number ONE in the world of female golfers; member of the LPGA, with 22 professional wins and over $11 million in prize money. Lorena was awarded Mexico's National Sports Prize twice and named BEST Sport Woman of the 20th Century.

Watch this interview at: www.GolfInMexico.net/Lorena

WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

ISLA NAVIDAD RESORT > G O L F E R ’ S PA R A D I S E <

sla Navidad Resort is one of the most unique natural wonders of the Mexican Pacific – offering an unparalleled venue that's truly a golfer's paradise any time of year. Recently selected as the top beach resort in Mexico by the Travel Channel, it has also been awarded a gold medal by Golf Magazine and named an AAA Four Diamond Resort. As a golf adventurer, you have got to visit Isla Navidad Resort and Golf Course at least once in your lifetime. The entire resort, located on a historic peninsula, encompasses 1,235 acres of colorful bays, jetties, inlets, beaches and little harbors where only quaint, native villages dot the landscape. Featuring one of Mexico’s largest marinas, it is home to sail boats and motor yachts that moor at more than 200 berths. The marina also has an on-site fueling and service depot. Isla Navidad's luxurious, award-winning hotel has 158 elegantly appointed rooms and 41 suites where attention is given to every detail. Guests look out over spacious balconies and delight in the view of the marina and the salt-water pool, as well as the picturesque Barra de Navidad Lagoon. Next door is the ultra private Meson Dona Paz with 14 guest rooms that create a special environment perfect for family reunions and corporate retreats. Isla Navidad Resort is situated on a beautiful natural harbor on the south end of the Mexican Pacific, 20 minutes from Manzanillo International Airport. The airport is served by AeroMexico, Mexicana, Alaska Airlines, Continental, and AmericaWest, as well as several charter aircraft from the U.S. and Canada. In the same latitude as Hawaii, Isla Navidad has the perfect climate with an average temperature of 79˚F. It is kissed by the sun during the day and is fanned by cool ocean breezes at night. All this only 2.5 hours away via direct flights from Phoenix, and from Los Angeles on both Alaska Airlines & Delta. Facing both the Navidad Lagoon and the Pacific

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Ocean, the centerpiece of the property is the expertly conceived Robert von Hagge Isla Navidad 27-hole golf course. The course itself is made up of three nines; the ocean, the mountain, and the lagoon. They play to more than 7,000 yards with par of 72. The rolling layout has brick cart paths that wind their way past undulating greens and huge sculpted sand traps. The dominant feature is the clubhouse, a much photographed, handsome Spanish-style edifice overlooking the finishing holes of two of the nines. The clubhouse restaurant and bar are superb, and the golf shop is fully stocked. The locker rooms are equal to those of the best private clubs anywhere in the world, complete with sauna, steam and masseurs. Ever since the Leaño family created this incredible paradise resort, they have had plans to develop the lush, spacious land into a premier real estate project. And now, Isla Navidad Resort has introduced an exclusive new program to sell two-to- four bedroom villas on some of the most sought-after premium view lots on the golf course, ocean front or the hillside above with commanding views of the entire resort. Other lots provide a window to the sea with panoramic views that end in golden sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. Also being sold are one-to-three-bedroom condominiums on sites overlooking the marina and quaint village shopping area, as well as other prime resort locations. Custom home designs are part of the overall services that will attract discriminating buyers who appreciate the safety and security of the Isla Navidad Resort. Title insurance and escrow accounts are all part of a secure services package being offered to prospective clients and investors. Isla Navidad Resort Sales and Marketing professionals and appointed real estate broker/agents are available to provide complete details on the purchase of any of the resort’s outstanding dream home options.

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

Location Manzanillo Course 27-hole, von Hagge Contact Golf: 011-52-315-355-6194 Hotel: 011-52-314-331-0500 Real Estate: 011-52-314-337-9010 Sales: 011-52-333-641-0100 or email eblancarte@yahoo.com

WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM

BESTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

MEXICO REAL ESTATE

Mexican Riviera

R EAL E STATE G ROWTH

in Mexico A Golfer’s Paradise by Chuck Kinder

ot all golfers seeking second, retirement or investment homes or condos are looking for golf course communities. After all, not all residents of golf course communities are golfers, but they do like to be near great golf in Mexico. Real Estate marketers seek out golfers as a desirable target group known for their higher net worth, premium spending for airlines, hotels, restaurants and real estate. Golfers tend to travel and love to play golf year round, which is something that México can offer. The fact is, today the economic balance in real estate has shifted from a sellers market to buyers delight, especially in the search for homes in the US. The Mexican real estate market should expect the same, no doubt, but not as much, nor for as long a period. Mexico has over $300 billion worth of build out value in the planning stage or in process of development. Mexico has several advantages to help counter downward pricing pressures. Buoyed by the US Dollar’s weakness and the pesos’ close ties in housing prices, the Europeans and their stronger Euros are looking at Mexico as a bargain real estate market. One year ago, a couple from Germany considering purchasing a $300,000 USD oceanfront 3 bedroom condo in the Riviera Maya was looking at paying 240,000 Euros. Now, with a weaker dollar, they would be looking at paying 198,000 Euros, a bargain from their point of view. All of Latin America is aware of Mexico’s real estate growth as an investment opportunity with plenty of direct flights from Rio, Buenos Aires, Lima and Bogotá. Canadians are feeling the same way about their dollar exchange value. For years they have been the stepchild with a deflated Canadian dollar. They now have a renewed interest in investing because of a double digit increase in valuation. Longtime savers and frugal spenders, they can now can take advantage of their new purchasing power to have their dream homes in Mexico. Sustainable, eco-sensitive, smart homes are the buzz words of the day, and projects that promote these concepts are reaping the benefits and separating themselves from the competition. The Villages at Loreto Bay, under the watchful eye of Citibank group, is one of the leaders of this movement with a highly successful development in Loreto, in Baja Sur. Here at Loreto Bay they are focused on the restoration of the Estuary with the goal that every hectare of (2.2 acre) water reclaimed creates ONE TON of commercial fish per year and provides new life and habitats for birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. More and more, developers are thinking the same for their projects. John Solis, former president of Koll International and a development consultant, strongly urges project developers to give back to the communities that they are working in, and to improve the highways and airports, making conditions better for the sake of lifestyle and investments. Mexico’s home mortgage credit is a new vehicle now available in quantity with competitive rates for Mexican nationals and foreign investors for the first time, thus opening a new segment of buyers and investors. BBVA Bancomer is the market leader for residential and commercial lending for acquisition and construction loans. 10

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Chuck Kinder Panelist, Speaker, Writer Publisher/President Golf Publishing International

Sustainable, eco-sensitive, smart homes are the buzz words of the day, and those projects that promote these concepts are reaping the benefits and separating themselves from the competition. WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

MEXICO REAL ESTATE

Mexican Riviera

The growth of world class golf in the key areas of Los Cabos, Vallarta and Cancun Riviera Maya have helped stimulate and enhance accumulated appreciation of real estate projects. Large development groups from around the world have taken an aggressive search for raw open land with or without SEMARNAT (Secretaria de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Nationales) permits to build master planned communities. The US and Spain lead the way with experienced and well financed companies planting the seeds for over 30 new golf courses with designer labels like Nicklaus, von Hagge, Fazio, Dye, Love, Player, Norman, Doak and even Michelson. You can bet that all of these courses are real estate plays: hotels, full ownership and fractional ownership homes, villas, and condos, and to some degree, time shares, residence clubs, or exchange clubs. Mitch Brinton, Executive Director of The Markers, heads up a private golfers residence club that will have up to 325 owner-members who have equity in over 36 deluxe estates in all of the best golfing spots around the world. Membership gets you up to 56 days in a beautiful villa with all services, including advance tee times, at all of the best courses in each area. The Marker’s first Mexico location is at Cabo del Sol. Their members have access to the Cabo del Sol Ocean course, rated number one in Mexico by Best’s Golf Guide to Mexico and rated in the top 100 in the world by Golf Magazine. Several more home sites are being planned throughout Mexico. Where to live and invest is a matter of preference, knowledge of locations in Mexico, proximity to airports, health services, safety and sanitation. Typically golfers who have traveled about Mexico have experienced one or more destinations, and are attracted to areas with multiple courses to choose from, among daily fee, resort courses, or private country clubs. Although beach destinations are the favored location for many US and Canadian second home or retirement investors, inland cities are getting on board and are becoming attractive due to the low cost of land and housing, living expenses, fee simple title, and thriving US ex-PAT communities. Areas such as Lake Chapala near Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende, Morelia, and Monterrey are fast becoming terrific communities befitting old world colonial, with modern health services, wonderful restaurants, and private country club amenities at respectable rates. Billionaire Carlos Slim has taken on the health care issue in his own grand style by establishing some very high end medical centers called Grupo Star Medica catering to the US baby boomers, with the first two locations in Puerto Peñasco and Los Cabos…after all golf is for life. We have created a directory (see page 44) of select and recommended real estate projects and golf course communities in most of Mexico’s key locations. Some are private, guard-gated golf communities, while others are individual, stand alone condos, villas, single family homes, or townhouses near golf courses. For your convenience we have an updated website featuring these same properties at www.GolfInMexico.net/RE_dir Financing, at approximately a 70% loan-to-value, at a reasonable rate, amortized over 20 years, is available from a handful of well-funded, professional companies such as BBVA Bancomer, GE Capital, GMAC, Latin American Financing, Finance North America, and Platinum Capital. Some projects offer prospective buyers their own financial package. There are several national real estate firms including Prudential, Century 21, Re/Max, Coldwell Banker and Realty Executives that have English speaking agents who offer personalized service and who understand lenders’ documentation process. Mexico has become more American consumer friendly with the availability of title insurance and escrow companies, which give assurance, security, and safety throughout the closing and ownership process. About the only thing left is to pack your clubs, clothes, and sun lotion and head south for a look at your next new home. For a primer and your own quick tour-guide of golf and real estate in the BEST areas in Mexico... read on. 12

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Mitch Brinton, Executive Director of The Markers, heads up a private golfers residence club that will have up to 325 owner-members who have equity in over 36 deluxe estates in all of the best golfing spots around the world.

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

MEXICO REAL ESTATE

Mexican Riviera

MEXICAN RIVIERA Good golf travel advice would not be complete without some focus on the Mexican Riviera, on Mexico’s Pacific coast. From Mazatlán to Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo and south to Acapulco, this area has a legitimate claim to some of the best golf in the world.

Mazatlan Mazatlan is located on the northern tip of the Mexican Riviera, in the state of Sinaloa. It has awakened from a period of flat tourism, whereas many other areas of Mexico have grown and prospered. Here, branded hotels and luxury resort developments have been limited. In the mean time, central downtown has seen a renaissance in the restoration of colonial buildings and historic sites. Now Mazatlan is taking shape as a form of golf destination. El Cid, the mainstay, is an oceanfront mega-resort with more than a thousand rooms to meet your budget needs. It is home to a Lee Treviño designed nine-hole expansion for a total of 27 holes of pleasant recreation. El Cid offers vacation ownership in the hotel towers, marina villas, and single family homes at the country club. Down the beach and conveniently close to the international airport, Estrella del Mar Golf and Beach Resort boasts a top-rated Robert Trent Jones, Jr. masterpiece with eleven holes touching the water. A second 18-hole course is in the works according to Managing Partner, Pat Butler. This beautiful property provides an investment opportunity as a second home with its upscale condo/hotel accommodations. The third condominium building, with 84 units, is now ready for sales after the first two buildings successfully sold out with high demand. In addition, a new ultra spa facility and new restaurant are in the works. Rounds of golf are up considerably as word is getting around about this beautiful golf course on the Pacific. The other side of town has growth going north with Grupo Echavarria, a powerhouse of residential and resort golf development in Mexico. Stylish David Fleming designed Marina Mazatlan Golf Club - with Paspalum grass and views to the ocean and the marina is ready to open. This is a full scale residential development with pleasantly surprising price points. Next door is the new Serena Marina and Golf, a private community of waterfront residences designed in the Spanish Mediterranean style, and surrounded by beachfront, boating and golf. Although the word is spreading fast, Golf in Mazatlan is still relatively less known, so those who discover it, practically have affordable golf courses and real estate to themselves. Amongst the other new projects is the expansion of Pueblo Bonito’s Emerald Bay with a new Greg Norman golf course on the drawing board. Nearby, the San Antonio Hills Golf Links are taking shape - a David Fleming project and residential golf resort with a different face. These golf links designed with sandy dunes and pot bunkers that will challenge all levels of golfers; a fun course to play, indeed. The residential community carries the tradition of Mexican architecture and the charm of its people. Last, but no least, we are also anticipating Nuevo Altata‘s golf courses to break ground in the mega-resort, located near Culiacan.

Puerto Vallarta & Nuevo Vallarta Puerto Vallarta, with commanding views of Bandaras Bay, is no longer just a one-course town. The Vista Vallarta Golf Club and its two dynamic championship courses, having hosted the PGA-sponsored World Cup in December 2002 and The Champions Tour in 2006, is making the Vallarta area a major golf destination in Mexico. Occupying the property’s highest elevations, Vista Vallarta’s first course designed by Nicklaus offers golfers a variety of terrain and challenges as they play across rolling hillsides, dense palm forests, giant ficus trees, and at least a dozen natural arroyos. With dramatic views of the town and bay, golfers will want to play this course twice—once with a camera, and again with their clubs. 14

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

MEXICAN RIVIERA

The Vista Vallarta Golf Club and its two dynamic championship courses - having hosted the PGA sponsored World Cup in December 2002 and The Champions Tour in 2006 - is making the Vallarta area a major golf destination in Mexico. With dramatic views of the town and bay, golfers will want to play this course twice—once with a camera, and again with their clubs. WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

MEXICO REAL ESTATE

Mexican Riviera

The other Vista Vallarta course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, takes players across deep natural ravines and swift creeks that are characteristic of the property’s lowest elevations. Weiskopf has done a masterful job of working the terrain’s natural features into an incredible, playable and memorable course, from the first tee to the green of the “drivable” 18th hole. Diamond Golf Construction, a leading golf course builder in Mexico, transformed the property from wild jungle into landscaped fairways and greens, preserving the natural beauty of this idyllic setting. The result is, in the words of famed agronomist Bobby Heine, “The best golf complex in Mexico…difficult to duplicate anywhere in the world.” The Marina Vallarta Golf Course, designed by Joe Finger, was Puerto Vallarta’s first golf course. Located between the marina and the ocean, the course is owned and managed by ClubCorp, Resident Director of Golf, KC Crandall, maintains U.S. standards, services and upkeep. Surrounding this course are several notable hotels, one — the Casa Velas, a small, intimate all-inclusive boutique spa resort is located right in the middle of the Marina Golf Course, is a must stay. Along the oceanfront sky, high rises overlook the marina full of large and expensive mega yachts on one side, and the sun sets over the Pacific at the end of a perfect day. The Bay View Grand group is the power house here with several condo options to choose from, including the new Venetian styled development with all of the lifestyle amenities to complete your Puerto Vallarta investment. By crossing the Rio Ameca bridge northward, into the State of Nayarit, and then the Nuevo Vallarta area, one will find several golf properties. The Mayan Resort, a highly successful timeshare project with five locations throughout Mexico, has a property with a golf course in Nuevo Vallarta. It has closed down the front nine holes for a complete redo of its entire 18-hole golf course by the Nicklaus design team. Next door is Paradise Village, the super sports residential resort complex, a one-ofa-kind property in Mexico, and its top-ranked Robert von Hagge golf course with 11 water holes. Paradise Village has a complete range of real estate offerings from marina villas, Porto Royal, ocean view high rise condos and golf course single family home sites on the El Tigre golf course. In this master plan complex you will find several unique, independent developments that cater to seniors looking for Paradise. According to their president Bill Jennings, “Luma Living offers one the first American-developed, full ownership, active adult beachfront communities in Mexico by one of the most successful real estate management groups, Front Porch.” They are California’s largest non-profit provider of active adult and senior living communities, comprising 13 communities in California, Louisiana and Florida.” Luma will create a new standard in active adult living,” said Mr. Jennings. Sensara Vallarta, also on the Paradise Village property, is another luxury living facility geared toward the golden aged baby boomers with a passion for golf and pets. This collaboration is between Grupo Suites of Spain and Active Living International of Newport Beach, California. Their project, on the El Tigre golf course, is backed with 30 years of real estate experience and success. North of Nuevo Vallarta and before Punta de Mita in the Costa Bandera area you can find the lovely Vallarta Gardens. Close to the beach and golf, these full ownership homes - set within lush gardens - are represented by Chris Haines at G3MEX GROUP Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta. Villa Amor features a total of 35 luxury beachfront villas. Every villa is uniquely designed to afford expansive views of the magnificent coastline, jungle and town. Beautiful, landscaped gardens of tropical plants, including fan palms, torch ginger, bird of paradise, and bougainvilleas frame the villas. All villas feature unique open-air designs and incomparable views from the terraces, with lounges for sunbathing and nighttime stargazing. Punta Mita is approximately forty minutes north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit. 16

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Punta Mita, Four Seasons. The ultimate luxury to endulge your senses.

Puerto Vallarta has maintained its real estate number one value, as the leader in unit sales and price points in Mexico - according to G3MEX GROUP’s founding partner, Chris Haines, an investment real estate broker in Vallarta. “We are the place to visit first for your next home selection.” - he adds. WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Punta Mita has everything I love about Four Seasons: ....details like an on-site museum, a signature refreshment of hibiscus juice, the flavor of local culture and amenities... the Jack Nicklaus course, cabanas with DVD players and huge flat LCD's, the staff spritzing you with cool Evian water and even cleaning your Ray Bans." Yachting Magazine, February 2007

Just 42 kilometres (26 miles) from Puerto Vallarta, an unrivalled luxury Mexican vacation experience, edged in pristine white sand beaches, natural islands and the turquoise Pacific is waiting for you. A unique spa experience. ...and of course, sunset dining.

MEXICO REAL ESTATE

Mexican Riviera

Punta Mita Resort - a huge success story - developed by Grupo Dine and operated by the Four Seasons, has a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. It is designed as a semi-private club for hotel guests, Punta Mita residents and their invited guests. The course has 19 holes; no typo here. When water or tide conditions prevent players from reaching the ”Tail of the Whale”, a unique, par three third hole with its green situated on a natural island 180 yards off the coast, then an optional par three is played. The master-planned residential-resort community of Punta Mita is Four Seasons‘ first resort in Latin America, offering both award-winning luxury hotel services and vacation ownership with a lifetime of Four Seasons amenities. A second Jack Nicklaus golf course is almost complete and ready for play this summer. Just north of Punta Mita, the Mexican Government tourism development arm, FONATUR, is master planning the Litibu resort community with a spectacular Greg Norman golf course which will be ready for year-end golf. This area will have several small boutique residential developments. Brett Ellsworth, who is planning a private community adjacent to the Norman course said, “CDC has been instrumental in transforming some of the world’s most prominent resort developments from vision to successful completion and global renown, with a blend of US management and the roots of a quality Mexican Company.” Their exclusive 89-unit project will have continued success here as well.

Manzanillo More than 31 years ago, billionaire tin magnate Antenor Patiño gave us a golf course Las Hadas. Designed in 1969 by Roy Dye - La Mantarraya’s management began to hire top-rated U.S. golf architects to design courses in Mexico. The Dye family, Roy and Andy Dye at its best - made it one of the most magnificently crafted course. An addition to the original plan, is the famous million-dollar hole —a 144-yard par three 18th hole with the green positioned on a man-made island, built in the ocean. The view from the tee is spectacular, with the all-white Las Hadas Resort in the background. The best advice is to take a couple of extra balls! Next door, the all-inclusive Barceló’s Karmina Palace, also with a spectacular view of the 18th hole, offers a super package that includes golf and many other activities for the entire family. Heading north up the coast is the “kingdom” of Isla Navidad and its deluxe Grand Bay Hotel, one of only two properties in Mexico to receive Golf Magazine’s Gold Award (the other is Los Cabos’ One and Only Palmilla). Here Robert von Hagge has built a masterpiece with 27 holes of oceanfront and bay front fairways and greens. Isla Navidad is poised to expand their real estate offerings with a series of oceanfront single family homes and a lagoon view condominium project. Thirty-five minutes north is El Tamarindo, the number three golf course in Mexico, a spectacular, modern wonder in the world of golf with its own unique village-like hideaway and an ocean-side golf course in the jungle, designed by David Fleming. This destination requires special consideration and may appeal to those who have a sense of classy adventure or luxurious isolation. This property, with an incredible array of villas with views ranging from jungle to ocean is owned by ultra chique Yellowstone Club. Sophisticated and adventurous golfers will be able to brag about an experience of a lifetime with a visit to El Tamarindo. Limited, exclusive and pristine ocean view lots are available at El Tamarindo through Grupo Plan. The Enrique Valenzuela designed golf course, Corazon de Manzanillo, with commanding views of Santiago Bay in Manzanillo, is scheduled to open in 2008. The entire Costa Alegre area between Manzanillo and Puerto Vallarta, in the State of Jalisco, is gearing for mega developments in conjunction with the new regional airport close to Chamela. Projects with Nicklaus and Norman courses are set to make this southern area of the Mexican Riviera a fast-paced growth area for golf and specialized boutique developments. 18

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Thirty-five minutes north from Manzanillo is El Tamarindo, the number three rated ocean side golf course in Mexico. A spectacular, modern wonder inthe world of golf with its own unique village-like hideaway in the jungle. Luxury at its best, a spa-lovers’ favorite, indeed.

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

MEXICO REAL ESTATE

Mexican Riviera Acapulco

Acapulco, in the southern limits of the Mexican Riviera, is regaining its luster as a wonderful golf destination, due in part to the top-rated Tres Vidas Golf Club, site of the Chrysler Cup Championship. This plush, private country club, rated number four in Mexico, is an incredible Robert von Hagge lay-out hugging the Pacific Ocean, using the offshore breezes as friend and foe. Several high-rise towers on Tres Vidas are being snapped up as second homes with access to this terrific course and to the second course that is being planned. Much of Acapulco’s demand is from Mexico City residents who make the 4 hour journey by car, many weekends throughout the year. The US and Canadian markets find their way here by cruises, boats, air charters, and some direct and connecting flights through Mexico City and Guadalajara. The Fairmont Acapulco Princess and the Pierre Marques hotels which, along with their respective courses, have been updated, revamped - and recently purchased by a sophisticated investment group - will experience further enhancements and real estate expansion with opportunities for home purchasers. The two complimentary golf courses have both moved up in BEST’’s TOP 30 rankings. Both resort courses have famous histories: renowned golfer-architect Ted Robinson designed the Acapulco Princess and Robert Trent Jones, Sr., redesigned the Pierre Marques, which served as the site of the 1960’s World Cup. The Mayan Acapulco Resort has an enjoyable and playable 18-hole golf course designed by Pedro Guerrica which meets the needs of its resident owners and hotel guests. In addition, there is a fun nine-hole course; the Acapulco Country Club which is closer to the convention center. Acapulco truly offers great golf followed by the best nightlife in Mexico. Come and join them; live and play at some of the best golf communities in Mexico. Your choice. Your real estate. Your life. 

One of the most exciting cities in the world, Acapulco is famous for its explosive nightlife, postcard beaches, unlimited watersports, first-class hotels, gourmet restaurants and the breathtaking physical beauty of Acapulco Bay!

KEY POINTS TO FOLLOW WHEN READY TO BUY - GET PROOF OF OWNERSHIP – an “Escritura or Fideicomiso” - HIRE A MEXICAN ATTORNEY with references you are comfortable with. - GET PROPER LEGAL ADVICE - This is a must to help you through the

For a free BEST’s Golf Guide to Mexico, contact Golf Publishing International at (949) 494-8561 or visit www.golfinmexico.net

buying process. All contracts must be written in Spanish, the official language in Mexico. - GET A CERTIFIED TRANSLATION OF THE DOCUMENTS - make sure you understand everything before signing papers. - USE AN ESCROW COMPANY WITH AN AMERICAN DEPOSIT INSTITUTION You must protect your deposit and final payment. (Some foreign banks have lost deposits due to negligence, or fraud) - YOU MUST USE A NOTARIO A notario has to oversee all land ownership transfers in Mexico. Bank Trusts (Fideicomisos) are required in the Restricted Zone. - DO NOT EVER PAY A LANDOWNER DIRECTLY - A MUST DURING CLOSING OF TRANSACTION: the buyer have to appear front of a notario unless he appoints a personal representative with a Power of

The Fairmont Acapulco Princess for all your earthly pleasures

Attorney from the Secretary of State’s office in the state of residence.

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

Directory of

Golf Communities

IN MEXICO Bay View Grand Puerto Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 601-2090 MX: 01 (555) 292-0100 www.bvg.com.mx/english Oceanfront residential.

Isla Navidad Manzanillo, Colima US: 011 52 (314) 333-0575 www.islanavidad.com.mx Robert von Hagge golf course design.

MEXICAN RIVIERA

Estrella del Mar

El Cid Resorts

Mazatlan, Sinaloa US: 1 (800) 967-1889 www.estrelladelmar.com Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed golf course.

Mazatlan, Sinaloa US: 1 (800) 525-1925 MX: 01(800) 7169-800 www.elcid.com 27 championship holes including a Lee Travino 9-hole expansion.

Emerald Estates, Pueblo Bonito

Four Seasons Punta Mita

Mazatlan, Sinaloa US: 1 (619) 793-4907 MX: 01 (669) 998-0691 www.pbemeraldestates.com Greg Norman golf course design.

Punta de Mita, Nayarit US: 1 (213) 291-7590 MX: 01 (329) 291-6420 www.puntamita-realestate.com Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course.

Luma Living

Paradise Village El Tigre Golf Course

Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 554-LUMA MX: 01 (322) 226-7290 www.lumaliving.com Active adult living.

Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (888) PRUDMEX www.paradisevillagerealestate.com Robert von Hagge design golf course.

Marina Mazatlan

Sensara Vallarta

Mazatlan, Sinaloa US: 011 52 (669) 998-0484 www.marinamazatlan.com.mx New course by David Fleming.

Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 386-4976 www.sensaravallarta.com Active adult living.

Serena Marina

Tres Vidas

Vallarta Gardens

Mazatlan, Sinaloa US: 1 (866) 528-0976 www.serenaresidences.com Great golf course community.

Acapulco, Guerrero MX: 01 (744) 444-5126 www.tresvidas.com.mx Robert von Hagge golf course design.

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 598-2580 MX: 01 (800) 229-2583 www.vallartagardens.com Unique residential.

Villa Amor Sayulita, Nayarit US: 1 (619) 819-5407 MX: 01 (329) 291-3010 www.villaamor.com Beautiful ocean residential.

BESTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 843-7005 MX: 1 (800) 561-3128 www.villalaestancia.com Top choice oceanfront.

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

PARADISE VILLAGE BEACH •SPA •MARINA •GOLF •RESORT

Set on a magnificent Pacific Ocean beach in Nuevo

health spa, a zoo, and a wildlife preserve. Vallarta, a lively tourist enclave on the “Mexican The 7,200-yard (6,584-meter) centerpiece El Tigre Riviera,” Paradise Village Beach Resort & Spa offers Golf Course is credited with putting Nuevo Vallarta on something for everyone, from golfers to boaters to the map as a golfing destination. Designed by Robert shoppers to those who just want to wade Von Hagge and Rick Baril, the par-72 PGA in the pristine waters of Banderas Bay. rated course features lakes, a meandering “At Paradise Village, you can stay for creek, rolling greens, and strategically a day, a week, or a lifetime,” says Barry placed bunkers and swales, framed by the Cohen, Executive Vice President of Sierra Madre Mountains. Its 45,000Paradise Village Group, which develsquare-foot (4,181-square meter) cluboped, markets, and manages the resort. house is considered one of the finest in “We have everything from hotel rooms all of México. to waterfront estate homes with their Paradise Village Golf & Country Club Location Nuevo Vallarta own yacht slips.” features restaurants, a pro shop, its own Course El Tigre, 18 hole, The resort stretches over 440 masterspa, a racquet club, eight tennis courts von Hagge and Baril planned acres (178 hectares) and and tennis stadium, basketball courts, an Contact 1(800) 995-5714 ext.111 includes 510 traditional timeshare Olympic sized pool, a children’s pool with www.paradisevillage.com units, a full-service hotel, full-ownership animation features, a well-equipped gym, condominiums, and private homes. The and other amenities. complex also includes Paradise Plaza, an “It’s a complete facility, where nothing air-conditioned mall with more than 100 stores, a 204- has been overlooked,” Cohen says. “If you’re not at the slip marina that can accommodate mega-yachts, the beach, if you’re empty nesters with an active lifestyle championship El Tigre Golf Course, a convention cenor family-oriented and into any sport at all, the counter, a country club and fitness center, a European try club is the place to be.”

WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

HEROES OF GOLF IN MEXICO by Charles Kinder

Mexico’s Oso Dorado

JACK NICKLAUS

WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM

playability for amateur players and challenge for the better players; perhaps most importantly, how to maximize the economic impact of the golf component for the developer. Nicklaus blends all of these ideals together as pleasingly as how the desert meets the ocean in the Baja. By this summer, Nicklaus Design will have completed 18 golf courses throughout Mexico, matching the record number of major championships won by Jack Nicklaus in his illustrious tournament career, and thus cementing the Golden Bear’s playing legacy. With another 16 Nicklaus Design courses under development throughout the country, Oso Dorado (Spanish for Golden Bear) will cement his design legacy in Mexico. Golf has been good for Mr. Nicklaus and Mr. Nicklaus has been good for golf in Mexico.

Veni…Vidi...Vici…translated from Latin to Spanish to English, means Jack Nicklaus came to Mexico, saw the potential and conquered the golf course design market. Why else would Los Cabos be nick-named Nicklausville or Cabo San Nicklaus? It all started with a phone call in 1988 from Don Koll, President of Koll International and the proud owner of Palmilla, the old veteran hotel that is surrounded by thousands of acres of rolling desert hillsides, ideally suited for golf in a landscape only known for fishing. On the other end was Carlos Hampe, then director for the Minister of Tourism in Los Angeles. Asked by Koll what the Mexican Government could do to support his efforts to build a golf course in Los Cabos, Carlos, an avid golfer, was quick to respond "Let’s fly to Phoenix to look at the golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus in the same type of desert climate, minus the beautiful blue of the Sea of Cortez that serves as the backdrop for Los Cabos." After the site inspection, the rest is history. Palmilla became the first Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in Latin America, opened in 1993 with the 18 holes of the Arroyo and Mountain courses, and later the addition of the Ocean 9 in 1999. Palmilla’s creation spawned a second golf course in Los Cabos—another brainchild of Koll—the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol. Shortly thereafter, Cabo del Sol became a staple in world rankings, and now the Ocean Course and Palmilla are rated the No. 1 and 2 resort courses, respectively, in Mexico. Jack Nicklaus has also designed the No. 1 private club in Mexico, also located in Los Cabos, at Eldorado Golf Club, now owned and managed by Discovery Land Company. Currently Los Cabos is rated in the top 15 golf destinations in the world, and Nicklaus has four of the top courses completed in Los Cabos, as well as one under construction at Puerto Los Cabos. Several more are on the drawing board. Some additional statistics from BEST’s “Top 30 Resort Courses” might be in order. Nicklaus Design has four of the top 10 listings, and seven of the top 20. BEST’s “Top Private Courses” includes four Nicklaus Design courses in its top 20 listings. Highly acclaimed, La Loma in San Luis Potosi, a design which included key input from his oldest son Jack II (President of Nicklaus Design) is BEST’s “Top New Private Golf Course 2007.” Nicklaus Design creations: Campestre San Jose, Mayan Puerto Peñasco and Asturiano Golf Club in Cuautla are the BEST’s “Top 3 New Resort Courses.” It should not come as any surprise that Jack Nicklaus has been voted BEST’s Top Golf Course Architect in Mexico. Mr. Nicklaus has a sixth sense for golf course design; understanding how to work in concert with the existing land; the importance of balancing

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

Your Mexico Real Estate Connection

BUYING REAL ESTATE IN MEXICO by Fabiola Thébaud - Kinder

ARE YOU CONSIDERING A RETIREMENT OR VACATION HOME? Mexico’s close proximity to the U.S. is a great benefit to the vacationer or retiree. The lower cost of living, availability of quality resort homes at lower prices compared with the U.S., and topnotch medical facilities make living in Mexico more attractive. There are many flights that can get you to destinations such as Cabo and Puerto Vallarta in less than two hours. Destinations such as Manzanillo are attracting more flights. One can also find beautiful resort property within a two-hour drive from San Diego.

WHAT TYPES OF OWNERSHIP CAN A FOREIGNER HAVE IN MEXICO, AND WHAT IS THE ACQUISITION PROCESS? On the Mexican mainland, a foreigner can purchase property fee simple (direct deed); except when the property is located in the restricted zone: 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the shoreline or 100 kilometers (62.5 miles) from the borders. Residential properties located in all of the Baja Peninsula, and coastal and border areas within the restricted zone, may only be acquired through a Mexican Bank Trust called a Fideicomiso. The bank, for an annual service fee of $300-$400, serves as a trustee, which holds the legal title to the property for up to 50 years. The cost for the permit to establish a bank trust is less than $1,000 USD. To purchase through a Fideicomiso, a foreigner must first register at the Secretariat de Relationes Exteriores for a permit to establish the trust. Upon receipt of the permit, the trustee bank sends instructions to a Notario (a governor appointed attorney), who prepares the deed (Escritura) to the beneficial rights. Applicable taxes are paid (2% of purchase price), then the deed is recorded in the local municipality. The foreigner, as a beneficiary of the Fideicomiso, has the right to use, improve, lease, sell, mortgage, and will the property. Should you die, your estate becomes the beneficiary. Also a second beneficiary to the trust can be named on a Fideicomiso to avoid probate. Upon expiration, a Fideicomiso may be extended indefinitely in 50-year periods when one pays the renewal fee. After 100 years, the property remains yours, but a new trust must be created.

Commercial or non-residential property in the restricted zone can be purchased fee simple with 100% foreign capital as a Mexican corporation, without the need for a Fideicomiso, but going through an application process through the Secretariat de Relationes Exteriores. Escrow arrangements in Mexico do not typically exist as in the US. Some American-based real estate companies work with a hybrid type of escrow, incorporating the closing customs of Mexico and California for U.S.-based buyers. Fabiola Thébaud-Kinder has close working relationships with the most professional, bilingual notarios to better serve her clients.

WHERE CAN WE FIND FINANCING TO PURCHASE HOMES IN MEXICO? In Mexico most residential real estate is purchased on a cash basis. Financing of homes in Mexico has been customarily done through a home equity loan on a U.S. buyer’s primary residence. Developers usually offer some type of financing and some will carry back a portion of the note. Mexican banks and finance companies have begun to offer loans to foreigners. U.S.-based mortgage companies are offering long term, fixed rate financing with as little as 20-30% down.

SHOULD WE BUY A TITLE INSURANCE POLICY? Absolutely! Questions of title may be resolved through the title company rather than through the Mexican Courts. In the US things may go wrong with title, and in Mexico as well, so it is prudent to get a title policy. The Title insurance policy issued for Mexico is 99% similar to an ALTA policy. There are differences in the law and the language, i.e. there is no Spanish equivalent of “marketability.” Ejido rights and agricultural reform have a part in the Mexican policy. In addition, in Mexico, mineral rights belong to the federal government, not to the owner of the land. First American Title Corporation, Stewart Title, and Fidelity National Title are a few US-based companies offering title policies in Mexico. *The above is provided as general information. As laws are subject to change and not all details can possibly be mentioned in this article, we recommend that you seek legal and tax advice from a qualified professional.

Fabiola Thébaud - Kinder is a licensed real estate agent in Laguna Beach, California. With over 18 years management experience at several major international hotel companies, her specialty is hospitality & resort real estate. If you are interested in learning more about real estate in Mexico, please contact Fabiola at (949) 246-2327, or email: fabkinder@gmail.com www.fabulousresorts.com

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

WWW.GOLFINMEXICO.NET

EL TAMARINDO > B E A C H & G O L F R E S O RT <

isarming a dense jungle is no small endeavor, but as your own. At the ninth hole’s rest area have the chef El Tamarindo has done just that and offers the more serve up some fresh seafood as you relax on a hilltop adventurous golf traveler luxury in a wild tropical junoverlooking the blue Pacific below. Tamarindo has 29 gle that courses down a mountainside to a primordial thatched roof villas with beautifully styled and furseashore, hence the beaches are truly pristine and natnished interiors, open to fresh ocean breezes. Each villa ural. That is the charm of El Tamarindo. Fly into is air-conditioned, has king-sized or twin beds, beautiManzanillo’s International Airport and ful bathrooms and showers, spas and each take a beautiful drive north for about 40 has its own private garden. There are two minutes. El Tamarindo; two thousand sizes: one or two bedrooms. Restaurant La acres of tropical rain forest with ten miles Higuera, located on the beach, serves of undisturbed sandy beaches. Mexican and International cuisine. Sandwiched between forest ravines and Guests can also dine in the privacy of dramatic cliffs with views down to the their own terrace. The chef is most happy crashing surf is the spectacular El to cater a meal of your choice, served in Tamarindo 18-hole championship golf the privacy of a wooden pier by candleLocation Jalisco course carved out of the raw landscape by light. If you are one of the sophisticated Course 18-hole, jungle/ocean David Fleming. Rated as the #3 Resort travelers who dreams of peace and quiet, view, David Fleming Golf Course in the top ten courses in miles of unspoiled beaches, horseback Contact Hotel: Mexico by Best’s Golf Guide to Mexico, it riding, excellent food, cordial staff, golf 011(52) 315-351-5031, is a must play venue. Here you can take and pure tranquility to totally unwind, www.ycwtamarindo.com full advantage of having a course almost El Tamarindo is for you.

WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

RESTAURANTS

WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

MEXICAN RIVIERA GOLF COURSE DIRECTORY STATE

TELEPHONE

Colima Manzanillo Manzanillo Manzanillo

Acapulco Acapulco Acapulco Acapulco Acapulco

26 (322) 221-0073

Puerto Vallarta

5

(322) 290-0030

Puerto Vallarta

9

(322) 290-0030

Puerto Vallarta

Flamingos de Golf Club (SP) 29 (329) 296-5006 KM 145 Carr. Fed. 200 Tepic-Puerto Vallarta Mayan Palace Nuevo Vallarta (SP) 25 (322) 226-4000

Nuevo Vallarta

El Tigre, Paradise Village 10 (322) 297-0773 Country Club (SP) Four Seasons Punta Mita Golf Club (R) 4 (329) 291-6037 Bahia de Banderas

Nuevo Vallarta

RATING CHAMP

MEN

WOMEN CARTS CADDIES WKDAYS WKEND

N/A

5338

N/A

4235

$40

$60

18 71 69.7 6435 5985 4773 Y Y $150 Roy Dye designed course. Million dollar island green 18th hole. 27 72 73.9 6943 6469 5152 Y Y $207 Robert von Hagge design. Voted Best Beach Resort in Mexico. 9 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $50 Larry Hughes design. Small, semi-private course located at Club Santiago.

$150

9 72 70.0 6898 5801 N/A Y Y Percy Clifford design. Short, fun course. Established in 1957. 18 72 69.4 6112 6085 5400 Y N Ted Robinson design. Flat terrain. Water on 12 holes. 18 72 67.7 6860 6112 5112 Y N Robert Trent Jones, Sr. design. Water on 12 holes, well bunkered. 18 72 6507 5959 6156 5352 Y Y Pedro Guereca design. 18 72 74.7 7040 5895 5015 Y Y Robert von Hagge design. Rates in Top 10 in Mexico. Troon.

$70

$80

$110

$130

$200

$207 $55

JALISCO

Marina Vallarta Club de Golf (R) Fracc. Marina Vallarta Vista Vallarta Nicklaus (R) Circuito Universidad #653 Vista Vallarta Weiskopf (R) Circuito Universidad #653

PAR

GUERRERO

Club De Golf Acapulco (SP) (744) 484-0781 Av. Costera M. Aleman s/n Fairmont Acapulco Princess (R) 21 (744) 469-1000 Playa Revolcadero s/n Fairmont Golf Pierre Marques (R) 13 (744) 435-2600 Playa Revolcadero s/n Mayan Palace Acapulco (R) (744) 469—6000 Av. Costera de las Palmas, Fracc. Playa Diamante Tres Vidas Golf Course (SP) 5 (744) 444-5135 Carr. a Barra Vieja KM 7

HOLES

COLIMA

Club de Golf Colima (R) (312) 314-4230 Autopista Colima Manzanillo KM. 4.2. Las Hadas Golf and Resort (R) 24 (314) 331-0101 Av. de los Riscos s/n, Peninsula de Santiago Isla Navidad Golf Course Marina & Resort (R)(315) 355-6439 Paseo Loma Larga 3885 6 Santiago Country Club (SP) (314) 335-0410 Av. Camaron 1-A Santiago

CITY

18 71 72.0 6700 6093 5259 Y Y $129 Joe Finger design. Challenging layout, oceanfront hole on the Bay. Club Corp. 18 72 72.0 7073 6031 5251 Y Y $183 Jack Nicklaus design. Club Corp, site of World Cup. 18 72 73.0 6976 5876 4943 Y Y $183 Tom Weiskopf design. Club Corp.

$129

18 72 73.7 6982 N/A N/A Y Y $139 Percy Clifford design. Thirty minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta. 18 71 73.7 6936 5692 4942 Y Y $140 Lipp/Guereca design. 18 72 71.7 6649 6271 5744 Y N $167 Robert von Hagge design. 18 72 72.9 7014 6641 5037 Y N Members Jack Nicklaus signature course. Famous for its 19th hole.

$139

9 72 69.0 6516 6241 5263 Y 27 72 N/A 6729 6480 5752 Y Lee Trevino re-design. Annual El Cid Pro-Am, open to guests. 18 72 75 7045 5959 5458 Y Robert Trent Jones Jr. design, great ocean front layout.

$183 $183

NAYARIT Nuevo Vallarta

Punta Mita

$140 $167 Only

SINALOA

Club Campestre de Mazatlan A.C. (P) (669) 980-1570 El Cid Golf & Country Club (R) (669) 913-5611 Apartado Postal No. 813 Estrella del Mar Golf Course (R) 23 (669) 982-3300 KM 10 Camino a la isla de la Piedra DIRECTORY KEY (R) = Resort Course

(P) = Private Course

Mazatlan Mazatlan Mazatlan

(SP) = Semi-Private Course

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

(D) = Daily Fee

(L) = Low Season

(H) = High Season

Y Y

$40 $80

$110

1 = TOP 30 Private Course ranking 1 = TOP 30 Resort Course ranking