Zona PVR No. 001

Premier Edition

5

Date-Night Hot Spots

San Sebastian Del Oeste Quick Mountain Get-Away

January 2022

PVR

ZONA

RETURN TO PARADISE PUERTO VALLARTA IS ALIVE AND GROWING

COMING SOON 2022

Norwegian Salmon Pork Filet with Onion Jam

Beetroot Salad with Goat Cheese

Passion Fruit Margarita

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Note from the editor They say that there is no deadline that is not met and so here is our first edition of ZONA PVR. What has seemed like years in the making, and in many ways it was, is now a reality. Reaching you through these pages today is a humbling privilege, and I’d like to take the opportunity to welcome you to our space, a glimpse into Puerto Vallarta, into its people, events, meals, views, hidden bars and beaches, artistic gems and more.

I’ve considered myself a full-time resident of Puerto Vallarta since February of last year, born in Guadalajara and having lived over 2 decades in Texas, I found the perfect balance for myself in this multicultural and inviting oasis.

I’m learning about my chosen hometown more and more each day thanks to the magazine and the people I’ve met. And what I hadn’t realized is that this city is a magical anomaly with more stories than sand on it’s beaches.

Inside these pages you’ll find sections like “PRO Files” which highlights local professionals and in “Culinary Window” we showcase not just delicious but beautiful dishes, as well as a piece where Daniel Dawson takes us on a night out on the town among other content we hope you will enjoy. Finally come with me to San Sebastian del Oeste as I explore a weekend of distractions in a charming mining town just a little over an hour away.

I hope you come with us on this journey, as we grow as a publication and a community. I ask that if you’d like to participate or comment that you please reach out. Thank you for letting us into your homes or hotel rooms and giving us the chance to entertain you and to our advertisers for believing in ZONA PVR.

Memo Huerta

In a city with so much to do, from nightlife, to food and outdoor activities, it is my hope that we will become your go-to source for all things Puerto Vallarta.

In this issue, our premier issue, we are proud to have on the cover, the one, the only, The Swede.

Morgan Granander is that unbelievably nice guy (considering his movie star good looks) who we all wanna have a beer with; and luckily if you visit his restaurant (The Swedes Bistro) you probably could! Special thanks to Afif Kattan who captured the moment.

This issue is dedicated to my parents, Guillermo & Lorenza.

Contact Us info@zonapvr.com www.zonapvr.com ZONA PVR Emiliano Zapata Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Daniel Dawson

Noah Juliano

Mitchell Todd

Afif Kattan

Writer

Resident Yogi

Digital

Photography

COME VISIT EL PATIO PVR - THE ONLY OUTDOOR COCKTAIL BAR IN ZONA ROMÁNTICA WITH ITS OWN DOG PARK.

BE SURE TO TRY OUR FRENCH LAVENDER 75 &

C. Fco I. Madero 248-A Emiliano Zapata Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco (Inside Plaza Romy)

OUR SCORPION BOWL!

SEE YOU SOON!

A yogi guide to get your mornings started a better way.

CON TEN TS

SAN SEBASTIAN DEL OESTE

WHALE WATCHING

DAILY ZEN

Join us on a weekend up in the mountains where we hangout with a bunch of goats in our favorite airbnb.

PRO FILES A focus on local professionals you should know! From their history to where they see their profession taking them.

The experience of a lifetime with a tour company that is dedicated to eco-friendly interactions with these wonderful creatures.

ART ATTACK A glance into the work of Danyol Leon.

CULINARY WINDOW

Entertainer Spotlight Sebastian Coronel is the man behind BOYS ON FIRE at the Palm this season. We talk with him about his move to the city and his amazing show.

Never not a foodie moment for us at the magazine and in this segment we pay tribute to not just delicious, but beautiful food.

HEALTH CORNER 5 Date-Night Spots O the Beaten Path Cool Hunter Daniel Dawson takes us on a tour of his favorite date spots. They're not what or where you'd expect. A sexy night is sure to ensue.

3 quick and easy tips for a healthier lifestyle or just a more active time at the beach!

Daily ZEN

by Noah Juliano

Yogi Advice for a Balanced Day

Morning Routine Chant your favorite mantra to yourself and set an intention for your day.

Drink a glass of lukewarm water and lemon juice or gargle coconut oil for a few seconds in order to kickstart your immune system.

Begin your daily routine with a hot cup of tea and a 10 minute meditation for daily clarity.

A few sun salutations work wonders for your body if you don't have time for a full flow. and finally, create a calming morning playlist to enter the day aligned with a tranquil headspace.

San Sebastián Del Oeste Mountains, Mezcal and Magic.

A Vacation from your Vacation

by Memo Huerta

Hacienda Don Henri

Running late, as usual, I threw all the necessary gear into my bag hoping I didn't forget anything. Having grown up in Texas I always have a pair of Lucchese boots on hand, yes even in PV, and I couldn’t wait to leave my flip-flops behind for a weekend to sport some worn jeans and maybe even a sweater. That’s right, just an hour and a half drive away from this beachy paradise there’s a cooler alternative, which might seem like the weather you’re escaping from to begin with, but for many visitors staying in Puerto Vallarta for months on end, a cool mountain escape might be just the ticket.

Past the airport is where your path takes a turn. Instead of the heavy traffic headed towards the Sayulita area, you are now on a peaceful road that seems to grow dense in fauna, from palm to pine trees with every mile you drive into the mountains. The beautiful, serene views and cooler air makes the drive seem almost non-existent; like another part of your enjoyable getaway. Once you hit the cobblestone road, you’re just minutes outside of the town of San Sebastián Del Oeste.

Founded in 1605 when mineral mines were discovered in the area, this historic town became one of the most important mining towns in colonial New Spain. By 1800 it was a thriving city with over 30 mines, a few of which can still be visited today.

Once I reached the city center of San Sebastian it took me two small blocks and about 30 seconds to find the home where I was to be a guest for the weekend. Hacienda Don Henri has an incredibly privileged location, walking distance from everything and boasts views of the cathedral from most of its cozy bedrooms. The home has two private apartments on the property and one bedroom inside the main home where guests can stay. The Hacienda is very popular on Airbnb and is usually fully booked but I got to stay in the main bedroom inside the home. The moment you walk through the sun-bathed foyer, you are surrounded by warm hues of oranges and burnt umber and beautiful pieces of art. For a second, I stood still like a child afraid to touch anything I wasn't supposed to, but my momentary stall was interrupted by the galloping of a beautiful dog, Diego, who yielded at my feet and immediately began sniffing my boots. From steps behind the happy pup a raspy voice welcomed me Hacienda Don Henri.

Goats, Goats & more Goats!

As “the voice” walked into the room the natural light seemed to present him, almost theatrically. “Welcome!” the tall strong figure shouted as his hat finally revealed his face. I was finally meeting my host. Known around town as “Rolland”, “Don Henri” or (my personal favorite) “the goat man”, he is the force behind this 5 year remodel project, proud owner and host of the property. Little did I know that part of the charm of staying in this particular airbnb is hanging out with Rolland.

After being shown to my room and putting my stuff down, I was immediately given a tour of the wonderful home. With its internal gardens, beautiful fireplace, large hallways and quintessentially Mexican kitchen I was in love. Then I heard the words I’d been waiting to hear. “Want to see the goats?”.

True to his elusive nickname, there is a plethora of goats on the property. Of course, the baby goats are the stars, jumping over each other or on you, they melt your heart. I didn't realize the power of baby goats, but trust me; it’s real. Rolland and his staff look after a variety of chickens and goats, this guarantees fresh organic eggs and an endless variety of goat milk products (wake up early and you can help milk the does).

Did you know goat milk is the closest to human breast milk? Neither did I. Did you know it’s not only healthy for you but also delicious? Same here. A serving of delicious goat cheese on home baked bread and a cup of freshly brewed coffee: I was hooked and wondering if a weekend would be enough time in this peaceful “ranch-y” oasis.

Rollannd usually walks his goats, about 15 of them, through the city center on a daily basis. I recommend you take this walk with him, you’ll see most of the town on foot.

You’ll get great recommendations for things to do, places to eat and drink, etc. But mostly you’ll feel like the rockstar that you are when you're cruising through town with 15 goats at your side.

The cobblestone streets in San Sebastian remind me of a fairytale, with ancient stone bridges, and winding turns revealing alleyways and backroads covered in moss. If you’re a romantic, I warn you, a simple stroll through this town could be fatal (attraction).

All this is a product of my fear of the dark and of things that go “bump’ in the night; but in all seriousness, it is a perfectly safe and calm place, even for midnight walks. Many of these buildings are now repurposed as lovely inns and restaurants, bars or even museums.

Later that night, Rolland and I headed out to the town plaza. Micheladas, my host’s favorite spot, was unexpectedly closed so we decided it was only fair to have one drink at each of the other bars, all three of them. As we either stood by the bar or sat on a terrace we mostly people watched, a favorite pastime of mine. Families and friends gathered, some dancing, others laughing and certainly all enjoying a seemingly carefree night. At least 3 mezcals and a few pacificos in (ok, I know what you’re thinking, but are you counting my drinks?) we decided to take a stroll through the alleys just off the main square.

All of a sudden I realized we were on the street leading back home to Hacienda Don Henri. Slightly disappointed the night was coming to an end but also ready to kick off those boots. Enough playing cowboy for one day. I climbed into a large puffy white cloud and felt my head melt into my pillow. I reassured myself that I shouldn't move, that showers were for quitters and plugging in your phone for the night was overrated. And so I fell into a deep sleep, as the cathedral watched guard over me through the beautiful large window beside the bed.

The town, especially these tiny ancient streets we were strolling on, were now mostly lit by the full moon above us. As I followed closely behind Rolland’s steps I listened to stories of buildings dating back hundreds of years, of places that had been used to store gold and silver, as barns at times, later even as prisons or… dungeons! To be totally sincere with you, I probably wouldn't be taking this spooky/fantasy walk if I wasn't with my now drinking buddy and friend who towers above most in the quiet little town. His hat and (amazing) poncho under this dim light form a silhouette that demands respect, so this made me feel at ease.

The next morning… To read the rest of this article.

PRO FILES

a l e u z i Br

r Y a R T c S I T Os N E D

Dr. Oscar Brizuela has been in Puerto Vallarta for 10 years now, offering specialized dentistry services at his private practice.

Born in Colima City, he moved to Guadalajara in order to follow in his father's footsteps and study odontology and where he also specialized as a prosthodontist, which focuses around smile designs and aesthtic procedures such as dentures, implants, veneers, crowns, and bridges to restore and replace teeth Finally making the move to our beautiful port, where he now calls home.

The vast majority of his clients are english speaking foreigners due mostly in part to his location and because communication flows easier with a fully bilingual team. This team includes an orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon, making it possible to meet the necessities of all their clients.

Dr. Brizuela shared with us that they are moving towards digital technologies such as CAD/CAM and even robotics so they can continue to offer the best available services to his patients.

Contact info +52 322 223 9535 Edificio Scala, Carretera a Barra de Navidad 479, Local PC3, Altavista, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

Curated Mexican Art Pieces Crafted by Master Artesans from Around Mexico.

https: //oceanfriendly.com/

Ocean Friendly

WHALE

Watching Tours

Ocean Friendly Whale Watching Tours offers daily and customized tours to discover the realm of whales, dolphins and other species on the enormous bay off Puerto Vallarta, Mexico from December through March.

All tours are led by a bilingual marine scientist, naturalists and a specialized safety trained crew. We use specialized anatomic and self inflatable life vests to guaranty comfort and safety on board for all our guests.

All of our tours are led within complete compliance to the official Mexican whale watching regulations. Being the safety of our guests and the well-being of the whales our two most important thoughts at all times.

As an environmentally friendly company, Ocean Friendly Tours provides beverages and food to our guests in non disposable and bpa free containers in order to avoid the production of plastic waste.

For More Info Contact Us Tel: +52-322-225-3774 US Tel: +1-858-964-0883 Email: info@oceanfriendly.com

"Inolvidable" - Trip Advisor

Ocean Friendly Tours was privileged to be designated and recognized as one of TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Great Wildlife Tours in the World and the #1 Whale Watching Tour in The World and inducted into Trip Advisor’s Hall of Fame for Excellence since 2015!

Due to the worldwide COVID19 situation and to ensure the safety of our guests we have limited the number of passengers on board our tours and we are implementing high standards of sanitary protocols.

Also it is important to point out that in order to enhance the safetay and comfort of all our guests we are offering all our tours as Private Tours so that our guests have the certainty of who they will be sharing the whale watching experience with.

Danyo Leo

www.danyo .co

ART ATTACK

CULINARY WINDOW

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, just as true is that we eat with all five senses, sight being the first one of those senses to apreciate our meal. That being said, the following is a love letter to sicilian food and fresh made pasta right in the heart of Zon Romantica.

In clockward order. First Page: Fresh Pasta made daily, Fresh Pasta with 3 types of mushrooms with a trouffle sauce. Salmon with fresh pasta and pomodorini. Linguini alle vongole.

Second Page: Fresh pasta with home made sicilian pesto. Paccheri al ragout di polpo, Fresh Pasta Frutti di mare (Special event), Catch of the Day.

Your night starts here...

La Noche

CC Slaughters

5 Date-Night Spots Off the Beaten Path

by DANIEL DAWSON

Puerto Vallarta is a special place where the winters don’t really seem wintry and where the bears don’t even hibernate–they just put on Speedos and go to the pool instead.

The sultry summer heat gives way to clearer, crisper days from November to April in PV, marking the temporada alta, or high season, in the Bay of Banderas.

While the heat and humidity may die down, tourism sure doesn’t–and neither does the romance. Where should you take that special date for a night out? For anyone like me who spent last winter snowbirding in PV, we know that the well-known restaurants and haunts can get too crowded for comfort at times.

If you're looking for a change of pace and want to keep things fresh, keep on reading. Here are my five picks for cool spots to set the mood with a special someone this winter:

el Colibri

chic - intimate - low-key C/ Morelos 582, Centro

Don’t let this tucked-away cocktail bar fool you–the speakeasy-style entrance nestled within an unassuming storefront on Calle Morelos in El Centro will lead you and your date into a lush, private courtyard with dim lights and soft lounge music. El Colibrí is the perfect moody spot to get to know each other a bit more.

Take a seat on one of their comfortable divans and enjoy a craft cocktail and maybe a dessert while basking in the ambiance and locking eyes with your lover.

mezcal y sal

artsy - eclectic - thoughtful C/ Fco. I. Madero 176, Zona Romántica

“Attention to detail” sums up this creative little bar/restaurant combo. Mezcal y Sal is a women-run gem right off the malecón in the middle of the Zona Romántica, serving up incredibly artistic cocktails and small plates to please even your most epicurean companion. Hailing from Guadalajara, these artsy women brought their big-city flair to this seaside eatery worth checking out.

D’cortes

local - cozy - contemporary C. Vía Láctea 222, El Caloso PV has an abundance of elegant restaurants around town, but why not try something of the same caliber (or honestly better) just off the tourist grid? D’cortes, the brainchild of Chef Polo Cortes, is located in El Caloso, a local Vallartense neighborhood nestled between the mountains just east of the Zona Romántica across the Río Cuale. Its warm atmosphere and exposed whitewashed brick interior ooze a sophisticated but approachable European-esque air. Bring your special someone for a gourmand date-night experience. Like some other restaurants in Vallarta, reservations are required at D’cortes to enjoy this quality date spot at the time this article was written.

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EL PATIO

fresh - LGBTQ - dog-friendly C/ Fco. I. Madero 248-A

One of the newer kids on the block having opened just this past December, El Patio is a laid-back hideaway in the unassuming Plaza Romy shopping center, just across from Paco’s Ranch. Boasting live music, fun cocktails and even a dog park on site, this is the perfect spot for a casual first date, or even to bring your pup as a single to meet another pet-lover. In the heart of Vallarta’s Zona Romántica near the other gay bars, El Patio is a perfect LGBT-friendly addition to your night out.

YamBak

unpretentious - young - dancey C/ Abasolo 169, Centro

A Sayulita institution, YamBak opened a new location in Puerto Vallarta for beer and house music lovers. This brewery draws a hip crowd and is known for its DJ sets bumping deep house, trance and electronic beats all night. Colored lights, concrete beams and steel brewing vats add a cool, industrial flair to this dance lover's hideaway. Get here on a weekend, late-night and groove to the DJ’s beat with your lover.

Daniel Dawson

is a marketing professional currently based in North Carolina who loves slow travel, locationindependent work and warm weather. He works remotely–or from wherever he wants– prioritizing locales with tacos and palm trees over anywhere else.

A lover of slow travel, or spending at least two weeks up to 6 months or more in a destination, he loves to get to know a culture, community and new place deeply. This is exactly what happened last winter when he was based out of the fabulous coastal city we know as Puerto Vallarta. Get in touch! dandawson26@gmail.com - @dandanpirateman (Instagram) - linkedin.com/in/dandawson26

Afif Kattan Phtotograhy

Sebastian Coronel BOYS ON FIRE THE PALM Sebastian, who is originally from Argentina was born in Tigre, just outside of the bustling capital, Buenos Aires. He arrived in Mexico almost 4 years ago, initially staying in Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo. He soon found work in Puerto Vallarta where he started performing at hotel shows but soon had the idea to create a boy group. The idea for Boys on Fire was to bring together a mix of performers with different abilities and talents.

This show has something for everyone, from singing and dancing, burlesque to even acrobatics and jokes sprinkled throughout the night. While you will see some skin, Sebastian explains that it all stays well within the limits of wholesome and entertaining fun! “The show is very dynamic, there's a total of 20 artists that rotate so everytime you see them perform you're going to get a new experience every time!” The first-time producer told us, “I feel very happy here at The Palm, I am so happy with the team here, it’s a great space to be in and great people to work with!”.

Il Pesce C. Constitución 285B, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. Mon-Sat 5-10 pm Sun 5-9 pm

BE ACTIVE FOR 60 MINUTES A DAY

Stretching first thing in the morning can relieve tension or pain from sleeping the night before. It also helps increase blood flow and prepares your body for the day ahead. Try YIN yoga, a slow-paced style of yoga as exercise, incorporating principles of traditional Chinese medicine, with asanas that are held for longer periods of time than in other styles. You can easily find short videos on youtube and it's easy to practice at home or on the beach!

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BENEFITS ere's no doubt that staying active and getting some physical activity in is important and represents great health bene ts, but when you're sending your days in paradise,, it's easy to become sedentary, or shall we say... comfortable. Here are some of our su estions for getting some calorie burning fun activities into your routine!

1 Walking just 40 minutes a day feels like nothing when you're walking on a beautiful Puerto Vallarta beach, say maybe at sunset?

But more than being a relaxing experience it burns calories, helps manage your weight, bolsters your immune system, improves your mood, helps reduce the risk of depression, regulates blood sugar, boosts muscle power and endurance AND enhances sleep! if that weren't enough... it can also reduce your risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and some cancers. So yeah, get to

Dancing! Yes dancing!

Not only is it a great cardio vascular AND a low-impact workout but it also helps with flexibility, balance, agility, coordination, power, reactivity and speed. Followers of the Indian Guru, OSHO, swear by Dance as a form of meditation with multiple spiritual benefits. "Forget the dancer, the center of the ego.

Become the dance. That is the meditation. Dance so deeply that you completely forget that you are dancing and begin to feel that you are the dance. The division must disappear; then it becomes a meditation." -OSHO

walking!

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