Zona PVR No. 005

ART

& THE CITY

As high season approaches the top gallerist are building up their collections and thus, setting trends.

FASHION HOUSE No. 005

Meet the local designers making a splash locally and overseas.

November 2022

PVR

ZONA

CONCHAS CHINAS

One of the best places to own property in Mexico, this beautiful neighborhood is what dreams are made of..

REAL ESTATE DESIGN BOOM

With hundreds of condos being delivered this season, "Our 5 Favorites" takes us to some the trendiest interior design boutiques.

WELLNESS & SPA

Treat yourself, without leaving Zona Romantica

CON TENT

6 Editor´s Note & Contributors Our Favorite 5 Interior Design Boutiques 8 10 Pro Trainer - Fitness & Nutrition 12 Entertainment Spotlight - MAU Art & The City 14 Luis Arturo Villaseñor Welcome Letter 26 27 City Exploring - Destination Pitillal 28 Fashion House 33 Foodie Recommendation 34 Wellness & Spa 36 Conchas Chinas Key in Hand Design 38

EDITOR'S NOTE WORD FROM MEMO, OUR EDITOR

OUR TEAM THIS ISSUE

High season is here, the weather is perfect, familiar faces are returning and the city is buzzing! This issue we focused on art and design, both are very much a part of the makeup of Puerto Vallarta. Some of the best and newest galleries share a little about themselves, their galleries and their current exhibitions in Art & The City. On our cover we are proud to have a piece by Michael McGrath, a Canadian artist who lives in Puerto Vallarta and is showing his work exclusively at Galería Omar Alonso and Cafe des Artistes. So many new condos will be delivered this season so many of you might be wondering where to shop for home decor. Our 5 Favorite has you covered with a list of beautiful interior design boutiques in the area. We recommend a few places to pamper yourself

Jeff Wright

while on vacation, check out our Wellness & Spa article. We have food recommendations from our favorite foodie, Jeff Wright, he also shares with us a little about what it's like to be the president of the Conchas Chinas Homeowners Association (CCHA). In our Entertainment Spotlight we have Mau who is taking over the music scene.

Mihajlo Paras guides us through fitness and diet and

Stephen shares with us his best kept secret, Pitillal. Finally we get to show you a behind the scenes of the Blondies brand and the fashion empire they've been quietly building. We got a tour of their beautiful atelier right above Los Otros Blondies! I truly hope you enjoy this issue and continue to send us your feedback!

Welcome back home to everyone who visits us, be it a weekend or a season!

Stephen Castrianni @phillysmc

Memo Huerta Remember to share your PV experience with us using #zonapvr and follow us on instagram @zonapvr

Mihajlo Paras Editor Memo Huerta CFO Lorenza Mendoza Contact us at

5

OUR FAVORITE Interior

A

s high season arrives so

does the joy for many of receiving their preconstruction purchases.

This means being busy, if you aren't already, dreaming up the decor for your new space. Many questions arise when deciding where to stock up on everything from couches and dining sets to throw pillows and mirrors.

Although there are many options around the city and Guadalajara is still a viable option for many, but for those who want to keep their browsing in Zona Romantica or Centro, we’ve got for you Our Favorite 5 Interior Design Boutiques.

These boutiques carry everything you can imagine and all have personalized design available. So don't skip a beat on your vacation, we’re sure you’ll find what you need here!

OP - Interiorismo con Intencion

MACARIA

Morelos 480, Centro, @macariamalecon

Standing facing the ocean across from the Malecon, this beautiful showroom showcases only a fraction of the possibilities that Macaria has for you.

They're carpentry studio will create

long lasting pieces.

Just check their reviews online to find that their customers are always happy and coming back over the years. With it's excellent location its the perfect stop in between your vacation activities.

Olas altas.499 Zona Romantica @op.interiorismoconintencion OP is on the corner of Olas Altas and Rodolfo Gomez which makes it perfect for popping in quickly while you wait for your table at Azafran or Piazzetta or just walking to or from the beach.

Their showroom is smaller but their designers have unlimited possibilities for you to choose from.

r Design Boutiques

DECO Designers C. Juárez 702-712, Centro @deco.designers

HDA Venustiano Carranza 263 Zona Romantica @haciendahda HDA is located on one of the main roads in Zona Romantica, the block is filled with clothing stores, restaurants and salons, but the crown jewel is this interior design store that rivals any other in the city.

Their attention to detail and high end decorative piece makes them a one stop shop for high end decor.

Deco designers have their show room in centro, very close to the art district. A good match for those of you taking advantage of the artwalk can arrive early and visit this design studio.

They have pieces ready for purchase or they can custom create furniture, blinds or decor for you on demand.

CASA OAXACA Aquiles Serdán 377 Zona Romántica @casaoaxaca_art Hidden away on Aquiles Serdan, right next door to Xoco Diva cafe, This beautiful store transports you to Oaxaca and all of its magic.

Every piece here carries a piece of mexican culture in it, making it a favorite for those wanting to give their new mexican property just that feel.

From lamps to rugs, baskets and art, this place has everything you need for that mexican flair of culture and warmth.

PRO TRAINER Fitness and nutrition there is definitely a connection between fitness and nutrition and they can positively or negatively impact one another. One of the most important connections between fitness and nutrition is that following a good nutrition routine can give you more energy and help encourage a regular fitness program. Of course this connection can go in the other direction, meaning that poor nutrition can negatively impact a fitness program or eliminate its progress altogether.

All active people need a diet that provides enough energy that comes from carbohydrates and fats as well as protein as a muscle building component That translates into eating a variety of foods every day, grains, vegetables, fruits, beans, lean and fatty meats and low dairy products. Fluids, especially water, are also important to this winning combination. Dehydration can stop even the fittest individuals from achieving their best Performance.

What to eat before, during and after workout

BEFORE WORKOUT

DURING WORKOUT

The majority of nutrients in a pre workout meal should come from carbohydrates as these macronutrients fuel the body. Some protein can be consumed but not in a large amount because it takes longer to digest and does not serve an immediate need for the beginning of activity. Not eating before a workout can make you dizzy, lightheaded or lethargic or in the worst case scenario you can injure yourself. Skipping food can also negatively impact your performance and reduce gains.

Consuming food during exercise has the number one aim to improve performance and also lift work rate and the ability of the highest performance during a training session. Specific benefits of consuming carbohydrates during exercise are to keep blood glucose levels high during training sessions.

Blood glucose provides an alternative fuel source for muscles when glycogen storage levels are getting low.

AFTER WORKOUT Eating after a workout will affect your workout, believe it or not!

When we exercise, we workout our muscles so they grow stronger. What we eat after each workout should help our muscles repair and grow- and protein does just that.

Whether you are focusing on endurance or strength training, taking in protein after a workout. provides the amino acid building blocks needed to repair muscle fibers that get damaged and catabolized during exercise, these also promote the development of new muscle tissue.

ENTERTAINER SPOTLIGHT

What is your relationship/story with PV?

So PV has been a place where I´ve been able to live totally from music for the first time in my life. I´m from Puebla, Mexico and the music scene there doesn´t really give you the opportunity to only do music. I arrived here 2 years ago, and started doing shows with my sister Eva all around PV, it was amazing because everybody welcomed us and our music so well. After 1 year and some months I started doing solo shows playing my original music.

I have a project called Beser with songs I write and my main goal is to be able to travel with my music.

Of course I love singing covers, but my main objective is on the original music. I feel more myself when I sing my music. Can be scary sometimes but it is more real for me.

Where do you see yourself in the future as a performer?

So as I said before my main focus is on my original music project. On the short term I will release and EP with maybe 6 songs, I´m working on this songs actually now. I have a home studio and I want to do everything really low budget style so I´m going to do everything on my own. Of course I´ll get some help from friends, but this time I want to be the writer and the producer as well. In a longer term or maybe thinking what would be the ideal for me, I always wanted to play festivals like Coachella T in the park, Glastobury, etc. I think that´s where I would like to be in the future, traveling with my own music, doing festivals.

What kind of music inspires you the most?

So I´m really open when it comes to listening to music, but now I´m starting to write new songs and I am looking for a new style for my music. I´m listenting a lot of Leon Bridges, Michael Kiwanuka, Jordan Mackampa... This guys have a music style that I am enjoying a lot at the moment. I don´t exactly know what genre would be, but it is something soulful with vintage sounds and I think this style could fit me for the new songs I´m writing. Of course rock has been my main influence since I am younger. I love kings of leon, coldplay and all this popular bands with amazing music. And I think The Beatles is a must for all the musicians out there.

Can you describe your personal style for us?

So this has been a struggle sometimes. Finding your own sound is always di cult, and since I do covers and original music, this can be a little bit confusing. The nice part of all of this is that I record all the instruments for my songs, bass, drums, guitar, keyboards. This because I always wanted to have a band and not be a solo performer.

Where can we see you this new season?

This also the reason my music project is not called Mau or something that has to do with me, it is Beser because I thought about it as a bands name.

But the thing is that we don´t have as much control of things as we think, hahaha. So I´ve been playing alone with my guitar for maybe 6 years now and never was able to have the band. So I had to make acoustic versions of my songs and the covers that I play, so somehow I became a singersongwriter, or a folk singer even if I don´t exaclty play folk. An acoustic guitar and my voice is my style. hahaha

MAU

So I am playing at Vivero Wine bar on Tuesdays from 7 to 9. I do Mama Caguama´s, a place that I really enjoy doing because I areday have a crowd that follows me theren and some of them they already know some of my songs, so that´s something great.

This is on Wednesdays from 8 to 10. And I do Incanto on thursdays. Here at Incanto I´m putting a show with a guitar player, Aldo Parra from Guadalajara, he is amazing. This show will have originals and covers. But I am choosing songs like redemption song by Bob Marley or Peace Train by Cat Stevens, which have a message that I like and that I feel we need to listen to again. And as I said original songs, so this is a show that is very special to me.

@MAUJIBA

REAL ESTATE GRAND OPENING FIRST WEEK OF DECEMBER

ART & THE CITY THE MUST SEE EXHIBITIONS IN GALLERIES THIS SEASON

ON OUR COVER:

MICHAEL MCGRATH My Inspiration - Where the Magic comes from: There’s something extremely special in PV and I am actually still daily captivated by these mountains, these sunsets, the powerful ocean tides - all of it! It’s more t h a n p r e t t y, i t ’s a d e e p g r o u n d i n g a n d r e j u v e n a t i n g feeling and as an artist I am so fuelled by it. Some say it’s the powerful Mayan energy vortex from the ley lines, others just call it paradise, for me I am just humbly grateful to live my dream creating work that is saturated, and “super charged” by this insanely special place!

How I got here: Over the years I’ve brought materials and had short m o m e n t s t o c r e a t e w o r k i n P V. I n 2 0 2 0 I t o o k a d e e p e r dive and setup a solo artist retreat and painted a series to launch the decade - having a satellite studio in place here I couldn’t believe the impact it had on my work. That series I developed new techniques, the Color’s were more vibrant and my creativity was vibing f luidly with my surroundings. L ater returning to Toronto Canada only days before the Covid Outbreak.. I had no idea I’d be back under a year later for what was at that time a covid escape and is now me living my perfect life!

An Artists Dream: I’m immersed in my artist career working with the top g a l l e r y i n P V. M y s t u d i o p e r c h e d i n t h e C o n c h a s C h i n a hillside overlooks the South Side of the Bay and I’m supported by skilled craftsmen, suppliers, merchants and a thriving artist communi ty.

Omar Alonso 249 Leona Vicario, Centro

Omar Alonso

The Gallerist Alonso Vá z q u e z , known as Omar Alonso, born in Guadalajara, Mexico in 1970. Since he was a child he had a great attraction for the arts, having his f irst contact with sacred art in the churches of the city and later its museums and art schools. He has made more than 280 individual and collective exhibitions and 30 years of experience directing art galleries and artistic projects. Self-taught, Omar Alonso trained as a gallery owner mainly in Puerto Va l l a r t a and currently collaborates with galleries and public institutions in Mexico, the USA, Canada and Europe. He also has the experience of working with private and public collections in several countries, always seeking the best quality of art for collectors and supporting them with the process of acquiring works of art, promoting and developing young and mid-

career artists who have gone on to gain worldwide acclaim.

He is currently the owner and director of Galería Omar Alonso and Galerie des Artistes.

Founded together with gallery owner Martin Rosenberg. Both are active member of the art district o f P u e r to Va l l a r t a

The Galleries Galerie des Artistes, originally founded by Thierry Blouet and Adriana de Blouet in 1996, under the direction of Omar Alonso, is known for its eclectic art collection that ranges f rom great Mexican masters to some of the most outstanding emerging artists of our time such as Esau Andrade, Evelyne Boren, Jesus G a l v a n , R i c a r d o S o l i s , I r e r i To p e te , Raúl Navarro, Raymundo Andrade,

Nuria Maza among others offering our collectors f rom that small object to a great work of art.

Galeria Omar Alonso, founded in 2001. As an introduction, it began its f irst 5 years dedicated exclusively to ar tistic photography, exhibiting some of the most important contemporary photographers of our time, such as Flor Garduño, Luis González Palma, Rodrigo Moya, Graciela Iturbide, Robert Mapplethope, Sebastiao Salgado. , Pierre & Gilles, among others, is currently considered the best contemporar y ar t galler y in PV, offering one of the best collections that range f rom photography, painting, sculpture, installation, and object art. GOA is also recognized for its interest in promoting emerging and established artists and helping them with their promotion

and artistic training, some of them with international recognition such as Rogelio Manzo, Davis Birks, Claudia Rodriguez, Michael McGrath, Alvaro Fuentes, among others.

The Exhibition This 2022-2023 season, both GDA and GOA have 12 group exhibitions scheduled, 6 in each galler y, changing them every month. Usually in each of the rooms you will f ind a different artist and we will be exhibiting painting, sculpture, occasionally photography and object art. In this way we can give a space for each of the artists that are part of our galleries and be able to offer our visitors a greater variety of art.

Browne 249 Leona Vicario, Centro

David E. Brown & Santiago Redmond

The Gallerist

The Galleries

Affectionately known as the Art Boys, David Brown and Santiago Redmond, f irst started their journey as collectors. Enamored with the city’s rich culture, vibrant colors and extreme zest for life, they would make their yearly winter trek to Puerto Va l l a r t a and always come home with a piece or two f rom the various art galleries in town. In 2018 they decided to take their love of art and elevate it to a new level. They both quit their corporate jobs and employed their skills as interior designers (something they had done on the side previously) to open up Galeria Browne.

For the last four years, Galeria Browne has been a vibrant part of t h e Va l l a r t a a r t s c e n e . S i t u a te d i n t h e heart of the Art District in Centro their gallery has become synonymous with bold colors, brilliant textures and works that capture the happiness a n d m a g i c h e r e i n Va l l a r t a .

“This is a town with magic,” says David, “…Overflowing with love and happiness. People come here to let down their walls and get back in touch with humanity. Strangers talk to each other and quickly become old f r i e n d s . We w a n t t h o s e t h a t c o m e into our gallery to feel this.

And when they leave with a piece f rom Galeria Browne, we want them to remember all those warm amazing memories each time they see that p i e c e i n t h e i r s p a c e . We w a n t to b e more than a part of their vacation.

We w a n t to b e o n e o f t h e i r f o n d e s t memories of their vacation.” With a wide array of contemporary styles and artists, ranging f rom masters to emerging talents, they have created what Santiago calls, “a haven for artful living.”

The Exhibition Currently on exhibition is Oscar Basulto’s Life Mask. Inspired by the various masks used throughout Mexico, Basulto has created a new Mexican unity by bringing these diverse masks, not usually seen together in a single celebration, to life in whimsical f iestas. It is also his way to “preserve” these masks as many of the rituals require burning them at the end. Giving permanence to these ephemeral masterpieces as well as giving them new life for a new age gives us art that is both folk in nature as well as very contemporary in interpretation.

Upcoming exhibitions for the season include a new exhibition in February

by Omar Garcia de Alba Bacerra, famous for his layered use of colors in por traiture and PrideX in May, focusing on queer art and artists.

Unfinished 183 Mina, Centro

Alf redo Ramirez

The Gallerist Alf redo Ramirez was born in Ciudad de Mexico.

Born into a working-class family, at 19 he headed north in search of better opportunities as many Latin Americans do.

What was supposed to be a short period in Los Angeles to study to become fluent in English became a nearly permanent stay.

A lapse of 25 years would pass before Alf redo returned to live in Mexico (Puerto Va l l a r t a specif ically) permanently.

While living and working in Los Angeles, he enrolled in community college, then earned a full scholarship to UCLA where he furthered his studies in English and Spanish literature as well as French language and culture.

Alf redo graduated with honors in 2000, earning a bachelor's degree in literature.

Always restless and searching for his calling in life, soon after graduation, in order to further his knowledge of the French language and culture he moved to France and travelled throughout Europe. He was based in Paris for a year and a half and will never forget that beautiful city.

After his return to the U.S. in 2002, he embarked on a career in the Visual Effects or VFX f ield, working in Los Angeles on many feature f ilms.

From 2003 to 2012 he worked for several VFX houses, including Digital Domain, one

From 2003 to 2012 he worked for several VFX houses, including Digital Domain, one of the most reputable VFX houses in Los Angeles at that time.

Not feeling that the creation of VFX was his true calling, and wanting to experience working more with physical materials, he left the VFX industry in 2013 and began an apprenticeship in welding and woodworking.

He has always had a passion for creating objects with his hands.

He enrolled again at UCLA. This time to pursue a master's degree in Interior Architecture and Design, as well as extra courses in furniture design and design in general.

Alf redo has redesigned several living spaces and designed and built many other objects. He also started creating an original line of furniture, examples of which you can see at www.alf redoramirez.com or simply by stopping at UNFINISHED gallery at Mina 1 8 3 , P u e r to Va l l a r t a , Ce n t ro.

The Gallery UNFINISHED galley (or UG for short) hopes to become much more than your traditional gallery.

UG was designed to be a social space with a full bar and two open terraces

where people can mingle and enjoy Art, Wine, Coffee and even Live music f rom time to time. All in the heart of the Old Tow n a n d j u s t a few s te p s f ro m t h e Malecon UG is primarily interested in exhibiting the works of local artists, of course you will f ind the work of not so locals f rom time to time.

Most of the works, however, will be f rom the local co m m u n i ty o f Va l l a r t a ' s a r t i s t s .

The Exhibition UNFINISHED gallery's grand opening was on September 14 which means UG is in its infancy.

Why Unf inished you might ask, well its name is intended to express the idea that art and design are always evolving and, in Alf redo's mind, never truly f inished.

Currently we are exhibiting works which celebrate “Día De Los Muertos.” These are the works of our ten local artists, but we are always searching for more talent and their interesting, original and quality pieces.

We i n te n d to ro t a te t h e a r t ex h i b i te d o n a regular basis and we hope you will be able to join us as often as you can at Mina 183, Centro to enjoy the new art.

Sklarsky & Smith 515 Lazaro Cardenas, Zona Romantica

Ian Sklarsky & Patrick Smith

The Gallerists The principal Gallerists, Ian Sklarsky & Patrick Smith exemplify how Business and the Arts can work in harmony.

Smith is the building owner and a local Real Estate Agent/Advisor and Property Investment Strategist. He hails f rom Canada and manages several businesses and properties i n te r n a t i o n a l l y. P u e r to Va l l a r t a i s “heart and home”.

Ian Sklarsky brings the brilliance of his personal and transcendent flare to life with his work and studies in “one line blind contour”, serving as a centerpiece to every show.

His international presentations have mesmerized audiences worldwide for almost two decades. Sklarsky’s work has been the centerpiece of countless exhibitions including London, Paris, New Yo r k , Af rica, Latin America and also includes a variety of permanent installations.

His principal studio and home are c u r r e n t l y i n B r o o k l y n , N e w Yo r k .

The Gallery Sklarsky-Smith Galler y, purely and simply, is a synthesis of dynamic passions which combine a love for Art, Culture, Imagination and of course, fabulous and incomparable Puerto Va l l a r t a itself.

This fluid creation of space in the heart of the Romantic Zone is intended to be tantalizing and also intriguing, designed to challenge the senses, provoke thought and bring a sense of joy while on the tour.

This gallery focuses on and strives toward creating uncommon narrative, and expositions with meaning. While the stories it tells tend to be somewhat complex; the gallery mission is in keeping with the PV culture we all embrace and enjoy to always be inclusive and to invite visitors in a welcoming atmosphere. Sklarsky Smith Gallery creates ongoing, always evolving, inspiring works in conjunction with a diverse array of local and international artists. This gallery model combines the business and creative energy of its uniquely individual owners.

Located in the accessible, unparalleled charm of the Green Quadrant of the Zona Romantica in a quaint commercial space at 515 Lazaro Cardenas.

The Exhibition Enter, Unreal Intimacy, this season at Sklarsky Smith Gallery brings to life the unique, the joyful, the daring and the neglected characters whose past lives andkinship were often forsaken.

Sklarsky has created and presents a

series of 50 highly energized and seemingly animated queer Catrina characters, depicting unforgettable relations, smiling, laughing, celebrating each other and playfully embracing the world in a series of unforgettable portrait commemorations.

These images also represent, bring forth and then reflect back at us that which is community, queer community and reminds us of those who have been forgotten f rom the family alters of the past due to bigotry and alienation during the course of an unwelcoming and unrecognizing culture.

Unreal Intimacy, Includes three fabulous large sculptures by Roger Josafath and also a myriad of stunning larger pieces by Sklarsky embellish the space for a perfect P u e r to Va l l a r t a v i s i t . S k l a r s ky S m i t h Gallery will be updating their information on upcoming shows online for the 2023 season.

See More At:

ROBLES Jean Marjean - Photographer instagram.com/jeanme

Michael Tolleson Robles

The Gallerist M i ch a e l To l l e s o n R o b l e s i s an autistic savant artist now living in Puerto Va l l a r t a .

Formally diagnosed with autism 8 years ago and with a career as an artist spanning just 10 years, Michael has painted more than 2000 paintings that he credits his autistic gift in creating. His abilities as a globally recognized autistic artist has allowed him to be featured in countless TV interviews, newspaper articles, radio broadcasts, and events where he paints live and donates the artwork to be sold for the benef it of the hosting autism organization. He owns and operates two Mexican galleries located in Puerto Va l l a r t a and in Merida, Yucatan displaying his artwork as well as being represented in Santa Fe, New Mexico with his horse art.

In October 2014 Michael received a global f irst place in visual arts at the “ANCA Naturally Autistic 2014 Awards” in British Columbia, Canada.

Michael’s artworks are globally collected and sought after.

The Gallery G a l l e r y R o b l e s Va l l a r t a i s a newer gallery in the Puerto Va l l a r t a scene having just opened 11 months ago in the historic Centro area and one block

f rom the iconic “El niño sobre el caballito de mar “sculpture on the Malecon.

The impressive 4 story gallery building is adorned with murals that are inspired by the owner’s artworks and painted by PV’s own well-known muralist, To ny Co l l a n te z . T h e G a l e ri a Robles solely shows the a r two rk o f M i ch a e l To l l e s o n Robles which is known for his large, emotional, and colorful artworks with subjects changing through f igurative, horse, bull, and landscape subjects.

The Exhibition Imagine a gallery full of intensely colored Modern Mexican American Expressionism that nods toward the spiritual journey of life through the eyes of people, places, and animals and you will have an idea as to what the artwork of Michael To l l e s o n Robles looks like. A room full of art that ranges f rom realism to the whimsical while still referencing Michael’s Mexican bloodline in its color vibrancy and sentiment.

The art on display may range in reference to the struggles of Autism which is the condition the author has tried to manage his whole life, or it may be manifested in a huge fanciful horse with exaggerated hooves and features that are dripping in color.

The texture and intensity of the heavy dramatic paint stroke may fool the viewer into believing that the paintings are oils, but Michael prefers to use the US made top line Golden brand acrylics because of concentration of the color and the ability to manipulate the thick bodied paints with a palette knife.

Each piece of art displayed will provide a doorway into the artist’s soul and transport you into a world that is unique to each viewer. A visit to Galeria Robles to see the current collect of art will not disappoint.

A Warm Welcome

Luis Villaseñor, General Director of the Public Trust for the Promotion and Tourist Advertising of Puerto Vallarta, invites you to live pleasant gastronomic experiences through the great novelties that this important tourist destination in the Mexican Pacific has for all visitors.

Puerto Vallarta is an innovative city, with the most important gastronomic diversity at the national level, which is constantly renewed to offer visitors new experiences, which are added to the extensive offer that the port has.

High Season is Here!!

One of the great novelties of the destination is Noroc, an avant-garde restaurant located in front of the iconic Muelle de los Muertos, which takes gastronomy and mixology to another level, having a great combination of flavors, with recipes from all over the world to offer culinary moments transcendent in a unique space; where its tables are surrounded by water that seem to melt into the sea of Puerto Vallarta to enjoy the enchanting sunsets.

Puerto Vallarta also has another innovative restaurant; Karuma Gourmet Grill, a name that combines two words in Mayan that means: "fire at night", this place has a concept specialized in grilled food, which is located within TierraLuna Village, presenting an innovative menu, as well as a design and an atmosphere that give it a unique touch, having signature cocktails prepared by expert mixologists, as well as a spectacular view of the sea, which together lead to a great culinary experience of great sophistication.

Another great place to discover is Homún, a restaurant specializing in dinners, which brings to Puerto Vallarta a fresh yet elegant menu proposal, in an environment with a minimalist and warm design. Chef Mario Borja's style and Lady Freydora's creative mixology combine to offer a completely new unique experience in the most promising gastronomic neighborhood of the city: Versalles. Within its dishes we can find everything from mussels in white wine, to a delicious hamburger or pizza, without losing its haute cuisine approach.

Puerto Vallarta continues to offer new experiences, which can be enjoyed in this innovative and avant-garde destination, for those looking for new places to discover in the port, having the recognition of being the beach city with the greatest diversity of gastronomic cuisines.

Pitillal

by STEPHEN CASTRIANNI

destination

Though we all have our varied reasons for visiting, vacationing, working, or simply living in Puerto Vallarta, many of those reasons include the boundless beauty, the energy of the land, sea and sky, and let’s not fool ourselves, the amazing foods that spoil us with their rich flavors and even more rich histories. But for many, especially our welcomed visitors, (some new and some who return annually), there are unexplored pockets of neighborhoods (in Spanish “barrios”) that often cultivate, maintain, and carry on some of the oldest traditions in both food and culture found throughout Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta in the minds of many, both new and seasoned travelers, is the sun-kissed Vallarta hugging an undeniably gorgeous shoreline that winds up and down the Jalisco coast past Los Arcos, and wanders into a lush valley, home to the much-loved botanical gardens.

But let us forget the sand, surf, and sunsets for a moment and take a short, but equally entrancing and memorable trip west to El Pitillal, a verified “barrio.” You may have seen the name “Pitillal” scribbled on a public-bus window on your way to Sam’s Club, but had no idea what it was or where it was located. But surprisingly, to even many return visitors, Pitillal is Vallarta’s largest municipality with 80k residents.

During one of my first Uber rides in Vallarta my driver told me in the most loving and respectful way, “If you want to experience “Real Mexico,” go to Pitillal in the evenings, just before sunset,” and so I did, and ever since have been outspoken about Pitillal, this barrio, I cherish so dearly.

city

exploring There is an energy yet ease to the community of Pitillal that captures the beauty of life, genuine life, everyday life, life outside of social media: friends meeting in the plaza for a few cervezas after work, children on scooters making friends with every other child they meet, the occasional aspiring rock star honing their skills for a crowd, food tents, more candies and sweets than you can imagine, and some of the best churros I’ve ever eaten (and not just here in Vallarta). September is also a great time to visit Pitillal as they prepare all month long for the celebration of San Miguel, Patron Saint of the central Parish. You can expect this already vibrant barrio prepped, proud, and ready to show both visitors and the rest of Vallarta what makes Pitillal so special.

Pitillal Centro I could go on for hours writing about Pitillal: How it has one of the hottest sauces I’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting, or about the boy who spins the most whimsical cotton candy I’ve ever seen, or the spur-of-the moment tattoo I got a Pitillal pizza, but those are the things that make Pitillal special for me. Without hesitation, go discover a part of Vallarta you may have never found otherwise, a place you can take home with you, with an experience exclusively yours, a place that a kind and passionate Uber driver verified as “Real Mexico.”

FASHION HOUSE From Start to Finish

Dino & Shawn, Owners and Head creatives of the Blondies brand

When you think of Blondies you think of Puerto Va l l a r t a , fun, sun and delicious slushies.

Their branding evokes sexy light hearted fun and stylish looks that can be seen sported all over the world.

We g o t a b e h i n d t h e s c e n e s look for you into the atelier above Los Otros Blondies.

From initial designs to printing, thats right, they print, press and sew everything on site.

This fashion house has been quietly growing for the past 8 years and is now a fashion force with no signs of stopping.

How and when did Blondies the clothing line start?

We started in 2015, first making shirts for our staff. Pretty quickly we had customers asking if they could buy them, so we decided to create a few versions of T-shirts and tank tops each year for customers. In 2019, with the opening of Los Otros BLONDIES, we launched a full collection, adding swimsuits and beach gear.

How many lines do you produce per year/season?

Usually 3 major drops, in the fall, spring and a Pride collection in May. We never stop adding new styles and designs throughout the year though, you’re likely to see something new weekly.

Who is your market? Who do you see wearing Blondies?

While our primary audience is the gay community, BLONDIES gear is for everyone. Most of our designs are unisex, with lots of different cuts so people can choose what’s most flattering for their body type. We have some beach dresses, tanks and sarongs for women, but really we find that with gender fluidity, it’s not necessary to label things for either sex.

We’re trying to be more inclusive all the time, and with the beach gear and accessories, there’s something for everyone!

Where do clothes?

you

make

your

All of our clothing and most of the accessories are made in-house at Los Otros BLONDIES, in the BLONDIES Design Studio on the 2nd and 3rd floor above the bar and boutique.

What's the process?Design, p ri n t , p re s s , c u t , s t i tch???

What has ch a l l e n g e?

been

the

biggest

Mostly f inding the perfect materials and studio staff to bring our visions to life.

They are amazingly skilled and talented people.

When is your next release and what's the launch going to be l i ke? ( R u nway ? )

That’s pretty much the idea. My husband Dino and I create all the designs and then print our own fabrics by sublimation. Then it goes through a huge heat press, on to the cutter, and f inally to the sewing room. It’s quite a process and we’re always pushing to learn more and develop new techniques.

We ’ v e a c t u a l l y j u s t d r o p p e d t h e f irst collection of the season, and we’re really excited about it.

Normally we let our customers be the models on the street lol, but we’re working on some nonconventional runway ideas for later this year.

How many people work for you?

There's a new feel to the clothes, what's changed? (Colors, etc.)

Between both bars and the studio, currently around 35 people. The design studio has 7 full time seamstresses and tailors. Our staff is everything!

Where going?

do

you

see

the

brand

We ’ l l c o n t i n u e to g r o w i n f i l l i n g out our collection. This year we’re working on more outerwear, so our visitors f rom colder climates have something to take home and wear immediately instead of waiting for beach season. Keep an eye out for some super cool jean jackets, bomber jackets, and more hoodies and sweatshirts.

We ’ r e also working on some higher end couture items.

T h a n k s f o r n o t i c i n g ! We s t a r te d our collection with our signature palette of yellows, blues, black, white and grey, but after seeing the response to our Pride collections, we’ve decided to open up the crayon box and use ALL the c o l o r s ! We l o v e t h e b o l d c o l o r s and pastels that you’ll f ind in the new collection.

Inspiration Really it’s about fun, with a bit of danger and intrigue in the designs.

For us, it was always important to make Fashion with a capital F, not just a souvenir that you’d buy on a whim and never wear. We’ve been thrilled to see our clothes on people all over the world. Every week we get photos from friends spotting our clothes all across the US, Canada, Europe, even China and Japan! We went on a gay cruise in Spain this summer and ran into over a dozen guys wearing our clothes on the boat and in the clubs. It was amazing!

I still get teary and my husband laughs, but it makes every bit of stress and hard work worthwhile. We are so proud, lucky and thankful to be a part of this community

New Collection We started our collection with our signature palette of yellows, blues, black white and grey, but after seeing the response to our Pride collections, we’ve decided to open up the crayon box and use ALL the colors! We love the bold colors and pastels that you’ll find in the new collection.

Foodie Recommendation

By Jeff Wright El Bodegon De Pastas If you haven’t yet visited El Bogedon de Pastas, I recommend that you do so soon.

This cozy Argentenian restaurant opened last spring on Calle Libertad, just across the Rio Cuale bridge from Zona Romantica. Using fresh ingredients, all of the pastas are homemade, and everything is made-to-order by Chef Alejandro Mancini, a native of San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina.

The restaurant owners, Mr. Mancini and Bruno Lee, who are from Mexico City, both left corporate life in order to pursue their dream of having a small, boutique restaurant with home-cooked-style food. Both men were living in Mexico City, but felt that Puerto Vallarta would be a better fit for this kind of restaurant.

Featured on the menu are Milanesa Napolitana con Papas, a traditional Agrentine breaded steak; country-style baked chicken with vegetables; and daily specials like Canelones de Carne con Espinacas (beef and spinach cannelloni). Don’t miss the appetizers, all of which are amazing. I won’t describe the house salad, but it’s impessive, di erent, and definitely worth ordering. The ensalada caprese with ripe, in-season tomatoes is also a great choice. And a requirement for any Argentenian restaurant--empanadas. El Bodegon o ers three choices: beef, corn, and chicken with mushrooms.

Now, on to my favorites--the pastas! They have ravioli with beef and spinach; bell pepper ravioli with chicken and mushrooms; and ravioli with spinach and Oaxacan cheese.

I wasn’t famailiar with Sorentinos until my first time at El Bodegon. They are similar to a ravioli, but larger and round. They’re fantastic and I order them regularly. Choices of sauces for any of the pastas are marinara, creamy tomato, red sauce with meat, or creamy 3-mushroom. The homemade desserts are also excellent!

The restaurant does not yet have a license to sell alcohol, so remember to take a bottle or two of vino to compliment your meal.

El Bodegon is small, with just 4 tables at the moment, but they plan to add outdoor seating during the high season. Bruno and Alejandro will make you feel at-home right away with their personable customer service, and you will absolutely enjoy this caseta-style international dining experience.

El Bodegon de Pastas Libertad 330, Centro Puerto Vallarta 55 7450 1009 call or WhatsApp in advance for reservations Open 3:00pm to 10:00pm/ Closed on Mondays

Luxurious

Wellness and spa ZO N A ROM A N T I C A

Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone and every mood and wether you´re here for total R&R or on a wild bachelor(ette) party, we´ve got you covered on your wellness and self-care needs. We´ve tracked down the vital places to get you restored, upgraded and ready to be the best version of yourself!

THRIVE MEDSPA Hydration is key, to our general health, to our skin and more. When you´re dehydrated you're not at your best. At Thrive they go beyond just hydration. Their IVs are specially made to replenish what your body needs and it is the only place in town that discloses exacts amount so you know hat you're getting every time. Their spa services include botox, lip injections, fillers, skin treatments, light therapy and more. Thrive should always be your first stop in PV, Hydration is the first step, and they got all the steps after that.

Basilio Badillo 277A *see back cover for more info

METAMORFOSIS DAY SPA This Spa is nestled right in the heart of Olas Altas, just feet away from the busy street on Francisca Rodriguez. This Spa has been around for 23 years and features 3 floors full of cabins so you never have to wait for a great massage. They also specialize in facials as well as manicures and pedicures.

Treat yourself after a long day of exploring the city and being in the sun!

Francisca Rodriguez 159

HAMAM Right in the heart of it all, Hamam is a luxurious Turkish bath experience for men, women and couples alike! Escape to another part of the world and give into the pampering that this experience offers. This is a unique experience that you wont find in most places and thanks to its location you'll be ready and renewed for dinner, drinks & dancing.

Lazaro Cardenas 240 A

Et harum quidem rerum facilis est et expedita distinctio. Nam libero tempore, cum soluta nobis est eligendi optio cumque nihil impedit quo minus id quod maxime placeat facere possimus, Conveniently located right off highway 200, as it´'s name suggest, Waxing4Men is for men only omnis assumenda that est, omnis dolor and specializes in waxing. This give it a low key, voluptas relaxed atmosphere doesn't feel like a busy repellendus. salon. They offer manicures and pedicures as well!

Francisca Rodriguez 336 A

WAXING4MEN

CONCHAS CHINAS Jeff Wright & the CCHA Puerto Vallarta is a never ending flow of cobblestones, beaches, sunsets and bugambilias but one of its neighborhoods goes above and beyond. Conchas Chinas has been the hillside oasis just south of Zona Romantica for those who like to socialize but rather retreat to their villas and condos out in the hills once they've had enough of the hustle and bustle. To learn more about PV’s own Hollywood Hills we sat down with Jeff Wright. Jeff is the president of the Conchas Chinas Homeowners Association, or CCHA, and has been in this role for three years now, starting as a temporary president until he had the ball rolling he decided to stay on.

The job entails a lot more than you'd expect, close to 40 hours a week for a small team is quite the commitment. Nevertheless he loves his role because he cares for and appreciates the colonia.

Jeff Shares with us: Conchas Chinas was developed in the 1980s, and was one of the first planned “suburban” communities in the area. It was a little later that Conchas Chinas became a Colonia of Vallarta and started receiving some City services. However, in the agreement with the City, Conchas Chinas was required to provide certain services independent from the City. The Conchas Chinas Homeowners’ Association was formed to collect money from residents in order to perform those services.

A few of the many benefits of living in CC are our beautiful, villa-filled and bougainvillea-covered hills, the quiet and glorious Playa Conchas Chinas, the charm of our cobblestone streets that border on the verdant jungle, and the overall tranquility of the neighborhood.

The area above highway 200 is known as Upper Conchas Chinas, and the section below the highway is Lower Conchas Chinas. Both areas are maintained by the CCHA.

……and close proximity to the Zona Romantica Entertainment District.

CC is a residential community, and nightclubs are not allowed in the colonia.

What CCHA provides: Care of the grounds, public gardens and entrances into CC. Repairing, maintaining and cleaning the streets and sidewalks.

Repair and maintenance on street lights .

Providing and maintaining street signs.

Removing debris after the rainy season.

Coordinating services with the City.

Advocating for responsible development and reasonable, manageable growth in our community.

Assisting homeowners with issues or concerns.

PA N C H O ROMERO KEY IN HAND

Tell us where are you from, and how did you get to PV? I was born in the Mexican Pacific, in Manzanillo, Colima, I was raised between Guadalajara and Madrid, Spain.

What differentiates Vallarta from these andades parcerdes?

Puerto Vallarta is constantly growing and with a wide field of action for our profession! Interior Design as well as Real Estate in my case.

How has your PV style changed? How has the city inspired you?

Since I came to PVR I live more relaxed, that also determines the way of working and projecting, before my works were more structured, now they are more what you see in the images, structured but relaxed, that is to say to enjoy yourself, how you live here on the coast.

What is the most important thing in your work for your clients?

I work with the aim that the client is as satisfied as possible, for him and with his direct participation in the project, since the work to be done will finally be inhabited, seen and lived by the client, not by me, so that's it. that it is a custom project, it must be counting on your total participation in the realization of your project.

www.panchointeriors.com