No. 007

ZONAPVR

M A G A Z I N E

THEART SCENE

EFFIEPASSERO: TheVoiceof Gratitude ZONAZ BOUTIQUE HOTEL

No.007

March2024

THE BEACH CLUB

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FROM THE EDITORS

Dear Zona PVR Readers,

Issue N 007 is here, as sexy and thrilling as the secret agent himself Like him, our cover story follows an international man of mystery who takes us through the motions of the beachgoers in PV Inside these pages, you’ll find an interview with Effie Passaro, the story of the little brewery that could (and more), a play-by-play of the latest art scene in town, and even a list of some of our team’s favorite things as well as some things we regret to inform you about

I am thrilled to share with you that Mory Thomas will be ZONA PVR’s new editorin-chief! Mory has years of experience in the culinary, production, and publishing world, bringing a new eye and dimension to our team and pages. I will keep collaborating as Editor at Large, and I’m excited to keep working on celebrating the vibrant life and stories of our city through our work

Warm Regards,

Guillermo Huerta Editor at Large

GUILLERMO HUERTA

I am thrilled to welcome you to the first issue of our community magazine under my editorial helm It is an honor to serve as your editor, and I am committed to ensuring that our publication remains a dynamic reflection of the vibrant tapestry that is Puerto Vallarta

As we step into this new chapter, I want to assure you that the essence of our magazine will continue to evolve, embracing diversity and inclusivity Our goal is to be a platform that resonates with all residents, ex-patriots, snowbirds, and individuals of varying sexual preferences Puerto Vallarta is a haven that welcomes everyone, and our magazine aims to celebrate the rich mosaic of voices that make up our community

In the ever-growing paradise by the bay, we aspire to expand our coverage to showcase the heartbeat of our town From small businesses making a difference to the thriving arts scene,

from the latest in fashion to the pursuit of wellness, we are committed to capturing the pulse of Puerto Vallarta. By collaborating with city planning and climate change experts, we will delve into conversations about creating a safe space to discuss sustainable living and preserve the magic of where the jungle meets the bays

The Sierra Madras and Bandara Bay hold a special place in the hearts of many, whether you grew up or came here because of its pull I am excited to embark on this journey with you, our readers With the support of residents and the business community, we will fill Zona's pages with optimism, fun, love, community, and personal stories

While we celebrate the beauty of Puerto Vallarta, we also recognize the importance of engaging in thought-provoking conversations about safeguarding what brought us here Through these discussions, we can collectively work towards preserving the unique charm that captivated us and continues to make our paradise by the bay unique Thank you for being a part of our community, and I look forward to sharing the stories that make Puerto Vallarta an extraordinary place

Warm Wishes,

Mory Thomas Editor-In-Chief

Truly

Tiny

There

Tucked

It was an honor to sit down with Ms. Passero to explore what PV means to her and what she sees as unfinished business She’s a misfit giant who found her authentic voice & lots of friends here while exploring her vulnerabilities If you haven’t heard her yet, then by all means –make it a point.

Get Your ART On

Host Location

Colectika Gallery

858 G Sánchez, esquina Calle Allende, Centro.

The Huichol people, a local tribe of the region, have an art style unique to their culture that has been passed down through many generations

Contact

322-222-1007

When you first arrive at Colectika Gallery to take your class, you are given a history class with a walk through the gallery’s history room You learn about the people who make these designs, their lives, and how the art form came to be. Your instructor, Lupita, will give you a piece, usually an egg, and you can choose a preexisting design or come up with one of your own

Classes are available all throughout the high season and can accommodate small or large groups This can be a perfect experience for a group visiting, and you’ll get to keep your piece of Huichol art as a reminder of this city and its culture.

In the heart of Puerto Vallarta, where vibrant culture meets pristine beaches, lies Monzon, a microbrewery and bar that's more than just a place to grab a beer Monzon is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of community Reid, one of the owners, has been a part of Puerto Vallarta for six years Monzon, which opened its doors in 2016, has weathered its fair share of challenges, especially during the turbulent times brought by the COVID-19 pandemic The journey was challenging, but Reid, alongside his wife, embarked on this venture with determination

Before their Puerto Vallarta chapter, Reid honed his brewing skills in a small brewery in Mumbai, India, known as The Barking Deer The journey to Monzon was set in motion when they moved to India in their early twenties Reid supported his wife, an elementary school teacher, as she pursued her career, but he soon felt the itch to do something new.

For Mumbai's Oktoberfest, they opened their first brewery Reid's enthusiasm and determination even led to a job offer after jokingly saying, "You can take my photo if you give me a job " In just two weeks, he went from a beer enthusiast to a brewer, and in this nano brewery, he acquired the skills needed for Monzon

Their path eventually led them to Puerto Vallarta They fell in love with the city during their visits in 2009, and a chance real estate opportunity in 2016 turned into their dream come true Although they faced challenges opening their establishment (like many others) in August 2017, Monzon became a reality

Monzon is not just a brewery; it's a place where the art of crafting beer is taken seriously They import top-quality ingredients, focusing on Canadian Mexican malted barley for their brews Their bar exclusively features Mexican spirits, each with a handwritten label

But Monzon's true essence lies in its commitment to the community They operate on a five-day workweek, ensuring their employees enjoy a meal and a beer at the end of their shifts Their mission statement, "To make the world feel like a smaller place over a beer," reflects their dedication to creating a welcoming atmosphere

The name "Monzon" itself holds a story; it means monsoon in India Just like in the past when the monsoons arrived, bringing people together at the brewery without the distractions of cellphones or TV, Monzon aims to foster that sense of togetherness

Community engagement is at the core of Monzon's values For every beer sold, they donate a peso to a charity The count is meticulously recorded on their website Even during the challenging months of the pandemic, Monzon gave back by providing hot meals to anyone in need -- with the help of donations

Monzon's commitment to its craft and community shines brightly despite the hardships They recently celebrated six years in business and experienced their first profit in January 2020, just before the pandemic hit During the lockdown, they pivoted to deliveries and continued to support their community

Monzon's dedication to collaboration extends beyond the brewing process They believe that pilsners and lagers are the next big thing in the craft beer scene, and they love partnering with other breweries to explore new horizons

Beyond beer, Monzon is a place where stories are shared, friendships are formed, and the love for craft beer knows no bounds With the catchy tune "Keep Me Hanging On" as a constant backdrop and the artistic touch of muralist Adrian Tekano, Monzon is a unique establishment that captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta

Monzon is a beacon of community, resilience, and exceptional brews in the heart of this coastal paradise It's not just a place; it's an experience waiting to be savored

ZONA Z BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Where Chic Meets Chill in Puerto Vallarta

Zona Z Boutique Hotel is a testament to the perfect blend of love, professionalism, and a bohemian chill in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, where the sun-soaked beaches meet the vibrant streets Siggy is the spirited hotel expert, while his partner in crime, Mark, exudes a calm expertise honed in the world of wellness

During our interview, the question echoed, "What makes Zona Z different from any other place in Puerto Vallarta?" Their response, delivered with a shared glance and a hint of humor, encapsulates their ethos: "It's our staff and the quaint and unique setting "

Zona Z is more than a boutique hotel; it's a curated experience where love meets professionalism The intricate dance between Siggy's flair and can-do attitude and Mark's calm expertise creates an atmosphere that's as inviting as it is professionally executed

Step into Zona Z, and you'll find a balance – a carefully crafted mix of chic aesthetics and a relaxed vibe. This is not just a place to stay; it's a haven where Puerto Vallarta's spirit is captured and celebrated Join us as we explore the chic and chill world of Zona Z, where love and professionalism coalesce into something extraordinary

BY MORY THOMAS

Meet the Dynamic Duo: Siggy Brunnacker and Mark Andrews

If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Siggy Brunnacker and Mark Andrews, you should make it a point to get to know them. Not only are they two of Vallarta’s sweetest guys, but they each have a wealth of information on living and doing business here, and their kindness and generosity in sharing it are an excellent reminder to us all.

Sig (as friends call him) spent his early years at American Express Travel in the northeast, giving him unique insights that led him to head up Hyatt Hotel’s Florida region for sales and marketing. He had a dream and strategy to own a property near a beach one day, which made him seek a job at the Victor Boutique Hotel in South Beach, where he honed his skills in all aspects of the business. Oh, yes, and their dog, Sparky, is also part of the hospitality team.

Mark grew up taking part in family food businesses and for the airlines, where he learned the value of connecting with people through his smile and humor while behind the counter As a young athlete, Mark witnessed firsthand the value of chiropractic care for his college team This caused him to launch a new career path in healthcare, becoming NBCE for Chiropractic and board-certified for Level I physiotherapy He’s opened spas in Antigua and other surrounding islands, leading him to where he is today. Chiropractic care, for him, is more about wellness and maintenance vs your standard chiro -- “snap, crackle, and pop” within a couple of minutes before they rush you out the door. More on this later.

THE “NON-POWER COUPLE” BEHIND ZONA Z

When we implied they were a local power couple, practically in unison, they both cringed and emphatically said, “No way!” Their power is about staying under the radar, not in the streets or bars. If you see them around town, you will find them dining (often in large groups) because they love to show off new and favorite establishments to visiting friends and family. There are occasional beach days. If business is squared away, they are consummate professionals who understand the value of hands-on ownership.

They have five stars on Trip Advisor to show for it!

Zona Z Boutique Hotel is ranked #1 out of 34 small hotels in Puerto Vallarta

It’s a testament to their love for each other and what they have created here

Book Your Next Holiday at

Muralby:MisaelIvanLopez

Love and Business: A Match Made – Over Nachos

Around 2014, Siggy visited Puerto Vallarta, among other hot spots in Spain, France, and South America, shopping for a property to quench his thirst for change His other requirements were gay-friendly cities, beaches, and a more extended tourist season Since it was relatively easy to purchase a property in Mexico compared to other countries, he chose a single-family home with the bones for a Bed & Breakfast. He named it Palcico 199 (now Villa Lola) on Pulpito, which is a few steps from his next big idea, Zona Z.

Mark and Sig met among mutual friends here in Puerto Vallarta It happened on the beach, like so many others have Yes, there were nachos involved too! If you can ask them the story, it is cute Later in the same day, they randomly ran into each other not once but twice, and a mutual attraction turned into unexpected life changes for both of them Mark lived in Toronto then, and as things got serious, it was clear a move to Canada for Siggy was out of the question So Siggy asked Mark when he was moving to Mexico

Around the same time, Siggy became aware of a large apartment building for sale steps away on Calle Pino Suarez, so in early 2019, he sold Palcico 199 for a more prominent hotel. It was a property with a colorful past and lots of patina, needing extensive renovations of its 11 apartments. The goal was to keep the old town's charm while modernizing the accommodations During this time, Mark moved south, asking only for a small room to practice chiropractic care somewhere in the hotel

They opened the bookings in late 2019, and, you guessed it – COVID bamboozled their income for two years, like everyone else However, the good news is that they survived while keeping their staff on the payroll Luckily, COVID brought them closer together as they fought to keep their dream alive

Before After

“I GENUINELY BELIEVE THAT REVIEWS REFLECT ANY BUSINESS, AND YOU MUST PICK UP ON SUBTLE CUES WITHIN THEM.”

Siggy

Tell us about your relationship dynamics and how they influence the hotel's atmosphere.

Most folks can agree that relationships are hard enough on their own Pile on a business venture in a thriving, competitive beach town, and things get even more interesting Siggy, true to German form, is the detail guy, setting everything and everyone in its place He springs into action to make guests' experiences as flawless as possible in Mexico Mark compliments Siggy and the business by adding softer touches His laugh will make you smile, and his playful and genuine interactions put guests and wellness clients at ease Siggy is the daredevil; anything is possible, while Mark operates with fluidity and an everything will be alright attitude He's a man of little structure However, he spends lots of time worrying about their guests and the experience they are having, how they are feeling, and how they are navigating all this city has to offer You'll find a trail of Mark's comments and recommendations, and many clients and friends enthusiastically recommend his services on many of the local social media pages

Zona Z Wellness: More Than Just Massages

Dr. Andrews wants clients to feel they’ve been heard and treated, and he and his wellness team actively engage with his clients, offering a complete holistic approach. He has no issues with referring his clients to other doctors and acupuncturists, and he’ll even shop online for the unique products he knows will further their treatment. I mean, who does this? In a city known for relaxation, Dr. Andrews has crafted his unique methodology in chiropractic care called Chirogenix. His small one-room expanded into a multi-room wellness center in early 2023. He’s the only chiropractor in town offering methods incorporating three disciplines of holistic wellness care: chiropractic manipulation, therapeutic circulatory massage, and rehabilitation physiotherapy. His treatments are approximately 60 minutes and include massages, stretchings, CBD oils, and other options for your aches and pains

Book your appointment with Dr Andrews or other spa services

The hotel is known for its prime location, central to the Romantic Zona and a few minutes to the sandy beaches near the Los Muertos pier It’s where authenticity meets expert hospitality execution Their hidden courtyard gives guests a one-of-a-kind experience as all balconies look out to see all the colors of the Banderas Bay, represented by local artist Misael Ivan Lopez, who they commissioned to bring all the vibes of the bay into the communal area,

surrounding the pool with a colorful palette of iconic images

It’s a chill, spontaneous meeting place for guests to mingle and relax. “I genuinely believe that reviews reflect any business, and you must pick up on subtle cues within them and address the topics you want to be known for.

The recurring comments are always location, quietness, cleanliness, and professional hospitality services”, says Siggy

Q: Let's dive into the adventures of y worldtourasasinger-songwriter!Areth any memorable behind-the-sce moments or wild stories from your glo travels?

Effie:SoI'vebeentouringfortwoyears, myfirstcoupletoseethebehind-the-sce tiny town and historical towns – see Alaska for the first time and then Eur camealong,whichisincredible.Wesan Budapest for 8,000 people; I didn't rea our band was even that well-liked th That took me to Egypt, and that was w performingatasocialnetworkingevent Egyptiancelebrities.Soeveryonethere very famous, but we had no idea w anybody was, and after our concert, t invited us to a party in Alexandra, righ the beach, and taught us all the dan They were so warm and welcoming thought my life couldn't even change a that…Readhowitdidchangeonline.

Q: Tell us about your love for the arts theater and how you infuse that crea energy into your music. What's the se ingredientthatbringsitalltogether?

Effie:

I love this question My mom always the story of one day when she was clean the house and came into the living room had my hands against the TV and singingalongtoaChristmasprogram I singing along to Ave Maria I was ma almost two years old, she said, an couldn't sing the words, but I knew melody already, and my mom freaked o calledmydadandsaid,"Wehaveadaug she's going to be a singer." So my lov guess,beganinstinctuallyformusic.Idi eventhinkaboutit.Youdon'tjustchoos love music at two years old, but I fortunate,andIamverygratefulthatIh two parents who incubated that love and nurtured it for me. When I was 5, my mothersignedmeupforpianoandmusic.I auditioned for Broadway by the time I was six, and then I was studying Opera by the time I was 12. The secret ingredient obviously is support and belief. I know somedon'thavethat,soIamveryluckymy parents were not scared Also, in terms of the music I write, the secret ingredient is always to have my eyes and ears open. I'm always listening for inspiration and looking around me (As she looks out her living roomwindow )

EFFIE EFFIE EFFIE PASSERO PASSERO PASSERO

"I'll say I would have never guessed that I could have had that affect on anyone, let alone young people, so that's really special."

I write a lot about the river, mountains, and dogs out on the street. I think it's important for other musicians and creatives to try and see inspiration, even in moments that aren't great

Q: Why do you feel introducing the arts to kids is important? Can you share a heartwarming or unexpected moment from your sessions with the little ones?

Effie: This is such a loading question, especially now in our society when everything is on a stupid app. I think it's important, the younger, the better – throw them into a music class even if it's unbearable – like you have to listen to My Heart Will Go On on the recorder for eight months. I think music teaches our species a way of communication. It's It's time to express ourselves. If you start dating somebody and you start sharing the music that you like, that is a form of intimacy. It's important, and I think that kids are losing that at a very drastic, unfortunate pace

The human connection is being lost, and art – not just music – art, music, theater, writing, acting – is a way to return to the beginning It has been with us since the dawn of time It's It'sgoing anywhere, but it's it'she back burner. Here's an example: I was on tour with Brandon & James, and we did a concert in the Midwest, which was like a classical music outreach program. One of the venues that we performed at was a junior high school that had this new theater, and so they said it was part of our contractual obligation that we had to have a workshop with the kids where we sang a couple of songs and then answered questions. I was dreading it cuz I remember what I was like when I was 13 or 14 I was a jerk I thought I knew everything I was that total a****** kid, chewing gum and smoking in the bathroom. I was that kind of kid. And these kids made me tear up – they made me cry cuz they had the most genuine questions, they were so complimentary and engaged

Q: With the tight-knit entertainer community in Puerto Vallarta, how do youthinkthevenuevarietyhasimpacted thelocalscene?Doyouhaveanyinsights toshareonhowwecanspicethingsupa bit:expandonwhat'sworkingortweakit foreveryone?

Effie: I'm genuinely upset about the closure of Incanto There was a very weird relationship between all the theaters in town before the pandemic, which was detrimental to many people's successhere Theytriedtoenforceradius clauses, saying oh if you're singing here, then you can't sing here. Or, because I was one of the only people in town singing, I was singing everywhere When more artists started to work, it was really important for the theaters to learn to work together – and have a better relationshipfortheartists'benefit.Itwas hard for them to get used to because some artists were technically competing with themselves. If they were singing here for free, why would somebody buy ticketsforashow?

What's great is that you can hear the things you want to hear, and I love that every theater has something. Act II is most famous for the musical theater whereyoucanseetheBirdCageorRocky HorrorPictureShow--that'sthere.Ifyou want to see Mama Tits, Miss Conception, Sutton Lee Seymour, or Heada Lettuce –all amazing drag artists then you go to The Palm. Then, in Incanto, it was kind of the home for the little misfits -- who didn'tfitanywhere.Theyhadthecabaret wherewecouldtellourstories,shareour lives, and make you cry and laugh We have Nacho Daddy, which has blues, and there's the Roxy. It's so cool. Yeah, it's just such a different experience – even though I lived in Los Angeles, where you can find anything you want, everybody's constantly butting heads and fighting for thenextopportunity.

Meet ChickenNugget

Read

Effie shares more about: her most memorable travels, how Puerto Vallarta became her home, unfullfilling jobs as a demo singer/songwriter, Mexico’s impact on her growth, her furry feline girls, what’s it like being straight in gay town, where she likes to hangout and ... where to find the best martini.

“There are so many talented local Mexican nationals here that nobody even knows, and it's unfair because now this town is overrun by ... Americans and Canadians.”

Now, in Vallarta, the theaters are becoming more centered around what's selling, so there's no opportunity anymore. It's like we are still playing catch-up from COVID, and I understand that, but there are other musical acts out there Incanto was perfect for local Mexicans, and since they closed, we need to find a space for our own local Nationals to perform besides doing resort work and singing for pennies on the dollar La Catrina Cantina is a beautiful space for that, but they seem to have difficulty getting people there. There are so many talented local Mexican Nationals here that nobody even knows, and I feel like it's just unfair because now this town is overrun by the same thing, and it's become a copy and paste. Every show is an American or Canadian, and there's something out there One thing Tracy, in particular, was so good at was hosting open mic nights. He would watch and be there to host, and if he liked what you did, he was the first person to say, "If you want to come play and have your show here at 5:00 p.m. and try and build an audience … " He would" always live stream, offer you to play for brunches or whatever He was the first to extend an olive branch and try to make that happen. It was exceptional, and the contentwasveryspecial!

Q:

How has living in a town full of talented individuals and entertainers who make PV a frequent stop sparked some creative ideas? Can you share any exciting plans forcollaborations?

Effie: Living in this town (she laughs), it's kind of a double-edged sword – because when you're living someplace where not only is everybody so talented – but also very supportive of each other, it's kind of like everybody wants to pull everybody in every direction Come into my show, sing with me here And when it comes time for people I'm interested in building a show with, I don't have time, or they don't have time, so it's very difficult to collaborate and make something meaningful. It's easy to just kind of throw something together with songs everybody loves, but creating something artistic takes time. That’s one of the main reasons I don't work with a band: I’m not very patient with people who don't appreciate time, especially if it's for a show and we have only so much time to rehearse Also, I like what I do as a solo artist – but my best friend Allison Lo, and I always love working together. We put together shows quite frequently, and that's just so much fun because that's definitely not something you see very often – two women working together so closely and so unabashedly themselves, and we just love each other so much it's very unique and I think I wouldn't have found a friendship like that let alone a musical partner like that if it weren't for the city. We have our moments of seriousness, and we have our moments of complete idiocy, and everyone knows us inside and out here, so we're not afraid. We're actually planning on one more show in March, hopefully before I take off. So, yeah, collaboration is a lot harder than people think, it really is

EFFIE PASSERO

Q: Puerto Vallarta became your full-time escape during the pandemic. Tell me what drew you to this city and how it's become a particular part of your life.

A: My dear friend and Jazz Singer partner of mine reached out to me in November of 2019, and we were both having a really bad time in Los Angeles. It's just a sad place. He had asked if I would accompany him to Mexico for a small tour, and I said, yes, please! Let's get the heck out of Dodge, and so he picked me up from the train station, and that's when everyone in the world got the same text message about COVID and that wherever you were, you needed to go home pretty much immediately. We scoffed because we thought it was just an American thing and thought – you know we'll head to Mexico – they never care about any rules. We were able to get on our plane to Puerto Vallarta, but by the time we got here and settled in, most of our gigs had been canceled. Clubs were closing, and we had one show left at, No Way Jose. When we arrived, The manager said he had about 80 people cancel. I think everybody was running home and only eight people were in the restaurant. We sang three songs from across the room, and all of us just started crying together. Because everyone was so confused, obviously, it was a good reason. Spencer and I don't sing really happy music cuz we're very dramatic people, so we're singing sad songs, and then we're feeling all these emotions and sobbing into our guacamole. The morning after was March 18th or 19th, and we woke up, and everything had been shut down and the Army had started to drive through and keep people off the streets. Luckily and graciously, Adriana and Diago Lopez, who own the Palm, let us stay in their apartment building to wait it out. John was like please don't go it sounds terrifying back home. People, you know, fighting over toilet paper. Anyway, one thing led to another, and two weeks turned into two months, and 2 months turned into 4 months, and then by November, I found this apartment. I sold my car, and my brother and mom went to LA to pack up my apartment. I just said, no, I'm not going back, and I'm going to stay here until things are better In the meantime, I had my little bubble of local business owners that I had met here, and so I made all of these really beautiful organic friendships with business owners the bar owners the theater owners and so by the time things kind of had to open in November and December I was the first person people were running to, asking would you please come sing?

Obviously, I just can't pay you, but come sing at the bar – make some tips, and I'll feed you. Have some tequila or whiskey, whenever you want. One thing turned into another, and I was singing here probably a good year before any of my friends in Los Angeles (especially New York) were singing, and I definitely couldn't give that up. Then it just got bigger and bigger. I fell in love, and couldn't see myself leaving this place – the people – the business owners – who were mostly very supportive of each other. Their genuine desire to make sure that I was okay – like everybody really cares about the world and that’s not what drew me here, but it's what kept me here I can't imagine anything happening to me here where I'd be like, well, okay cool I guess that's time it's time for me to go. I don't think it'll ever happen.

And if I could, I’d like to mention some of them: Rodger and Brian from, Anonomo’s and their restaurant is called Jack’s. Tracy Park from Incanto. Mama Tits, she and Diego Guerrero, and I would do Facebook live streams of her drag show, and we sang background for her. I mean, it wasn’t much, but it helped me buy my groceries. So many people in this community helped me survive when I was uncertain that I would ever be able to sing again.

Q: Another lesser-known side your fans might want to glimpse is how often you write songs for other artists. How do you manage to capture their essence in your compositions? Have these collaborations sparked any discoveries or innovations in your personnel performances? Can you share your most exciting stories from these collaborations? Or, what particular artist have you worked for?

Effie:

Living in Los Angeles is a huge part of what so many people do. Songwriting sessions for other artists. They come into a studio and want a song that sounds like a major hit, so I would sit in a room with six people. Honestly, it's my worst nightmare because I don't like writing pop music, and I don't like writing things that have no meaning, and I just feel like a lot of pop music is like that, so when I lived in Los Angeles, it was really not a good time for me. I came close to a song for Miley Cyrus, and she was really close to buying it, which would have been life-changing, but ultimately, she didn't. However, her dad did say that whoever wrote this and sang on it was great!

Demo writing and demo singing are such a hidden part of the music industry that it's hard to explain, and I just stopped completely after I moved here because it was never what I wanted to do, to begin with, and it did not spark creativity. If you're not a good pop writer, you're not going to want to do it, and then I couldn't find the inspiration or creativity to write anything for myself. As I've gotten older, I'll write music, and I can hear someone else singing it. I think the key for myself and my own mental health and creativity is to never write with the intention of it being for somebody else it's always for me, and I share it with people, but it's my way of coping with whatever I'm going through or whatever I'm happy about at the time. If somebody else wants to sing my music, take it.

Q:

Building connections within the entertainer community is crucial. How have the friendships you've formed in Puerto Vallarta contributed to your growth as an artist and person?

Effie:

So let's go back to covid times like I mentioned before Mama tits kind of took me under her Wing introduced me to a lot of people the first party that I actually sang at was one that she was working at I don't think it was drag Derby but it was something around that time where they were doing fundraisers And and I ended up singing a song and that's kind of where everything changed so making connections within the artist community here is life-changing and I think that's why so many more artists and creatives are pouring in it this rapid pace and the town is just overflowing and And I think it's been extra special because as I mentioned earlier viota brings in very interesting and unique personalities and so whereas in Los Angeles I felt very alienated and different and not what people were wanting you know when I got to know more and more artists here Vallarta more painter is my friend tamale who painted this and stuff like that it became very very apparent that there's plenty of us weirdos out there and we all need to stick together and it's helped me grow as a musicians hearing I hear it all I hear songs that I've never heard before and I go oh I should probably learn something like that and it's my mind is constantly evolving around new and unique Styles music that I'm hearing and and the friendships are unique as well because we understand Unique as well because we understand that we're all very busy and if we don't see each other for weeks on end the moment we do we give each other huge hugs and you know we say sorry that it's been forever and everybody understands that is not because we don't want to see them just because we're all really busy and as a person it's definitely helped me feel more accepted and and more more okay with myself and then as a musician like I said it's just constantly growing and constantly hearing me things and especially my my local Mexican friends were there showing me songs in Spanish so that I should learn and and now I'm singing and all these different languages wonderful it really really is.

that we're all very busy and if we don't see each other for weeks on end the moment we do we give each other huge hugs and you know we say sorry that it's been forever and everybody understands that is not because we don't want to see them just because we're all really busy and as a person it's definitely helped me feel more accepted and and more more okay with myself and then as a musician like I said it's just constantly growing and constantly hearing me things and especially my my local Mexican friends were there showing me songs in Spanish so that I should learn and and now I'm singing and all these different languages wonderful it really really is.

Q:

Your cats deserve a spotlight too! As a fellow feline lover, tell us how you met your cat.

Effie:

Quesadilla was a taco stand cat who followed me every day, and I would buy her a can of tuna until one day, my neighbor caught her and had her spade, and I took her in. She was maybe 6 months old, and then little Chicken Nugget, she and her siblings were found over here in a box, and so my upstairs neighbor took them and asked if I wanted to get a companion for Quesadilla because I was leaving on tours all the time and I felt bad so I got her friend. Nugget was just a baby when they were found, so she's been in people's hands since her very small, so she's a lot friendlier, and she talks all the damn time. She’s so loud.

Q:

Living in an LGBTQ+ town as a straight woman, what has that experience been like for you? Has it added a unique flavor to your personal and artistic journey?

Effie:

I've always been a member of the family and an ally ever since I was young, so even when I lived in Los Angeles, I was always in West Hollywood with my friends and moved to Portland because Los Angeles is so clicky and hurtful. The gay community is this weird dichotomy with lots of self-hatred. It’s very bizarre. My brother is gay, and he has a really, really terrible time out there sometimes. Moving here, you can find anything. If you want to do the crazy parties, you can find that, or you can just go and have beers and have a great time there's no gay stereotype in Puerto Vallarta is just whatever you want to find, you can find it, and I think that is really important for the community. This is why so many different people love Puerto Vallarta, and it's so special I love it so much. As for dating, unfortunately, you know, we have the boys who work at Wet or 69, and they're straight. Still, you know that they've had to do what they've had to do sometimes, and so as a straight woman, it is a little difficult because I have to be careful, but now I have found (she laughs) “one”.

Add a littleYeah, my boyfriend's from Mexico City, and he's a chef and he's f****** intelligent. He has a master's degree in sociology. So he's intriguing to me, but I think in terms of other straight people because I'm not 100%, you know, nobody is 100% straight, so I've never been closeminded to anything that goes on here. I think it just helps me be there for my friends more. Whatever they need, I got them.

Q: Do you consider yourself a straight woman?

Effie: I’m Pansexual.

Q:

Let's talk about the lighter side of things. What's your favorite way to have fun and unwind in Puerto Vallarta? Are there any hidden gems or local spots you frequent?

Effie:

What kind of fun exactly? On Monday night, I think she will keep doing it, but Alison Lo does a musical on Mondays at Garbo, which starts a little late at 10:30, but she is so much fun. It’s unique because you can get wasted there if you want, but for the most part, it's just us drinking Martinis.

Speaking of martinis, the Twisted Palm has a happy hour on Monday night with 75-peso martinis and handmade blue cheese olives.

Then, if you're a more relaxed person, Casita y Garden has music almost every night and their Garden is so zen and beautiful, and they have nice relaxing music. I often start at the Tunnel Bar, which Tamale and Bill run. That's usually where the starting happens, and then God only knows. I also love Fridas, to unwind and hang out with Tom. Or, Sapphire Beach Club for some sand and sun. There's a new place down in Mismaloya called Xalli, which has gorgeous food and beautiful views. Then, my friends Tamale and Bill, run to Tamale's Tours on Fridays for the rest of the season with an all-day, all-you-can-eat-and-drink boat cruising around the bay, It's all-inclusive, not necessarily just LGBTQ, so if you get everything on there it's a great way to be with a bunch of strangers all day and have a great time. You don't have to drink, so sometimes it's a nice way to relax and sleep on a yacht. Sometimes all I do is sit here and read and listen to the river or play video games because I'm a nerd. It depends on my mood.

Q: Did I miss anything you want to share? This interview is all about celebrating both you. Who you are,, your talent, and your journey as a performer.

Effie: Yeah, I want everyone to know how grateful I am for this place (Puerto Vallarta). Everyone has given me so much, like literally a new lease on life. I still deal with anxiety and depression a lot but I'm so much more mellow than I used to be and it's just really given me the opportunity to see things in a new light.

TRADITION & NUANCE

Last December, the Arte Vallarta Museum held its very first of first Saturday (of the month) exhibition of international artists The event brought together local art lovers and social butterflies. Surrounded by music and warm lighting, the guests talked and rubbed elbows while also taking the time to admire the exhibits

The room was overflowing with inspiring works, from colorful renditions of Mexican staples to meticulously crafted Korean art and sculptures lining up the space.

Without a doubt, Hector Belloc's artwork was one of the night's highlights As you entered the exhibit's final room, a large white structure came down as if from the heavens, taking over a whole wall and descending weightlessly into the room. The piece was the center of attention that night, with guests gathering to meet the artist and take a few pictures

Title: Rough Draft by Blanco

Belloc soon after announced his next endeavor. A collaboration and exhibition at MannMade Mexico is to open later that month The event was a highlight of that night’s Art Walk. The next door was also buzzing as one of the newest art galleries, Gaia, played live music and welcomed guests Down the block, another new gallery, Nina Di, is exhibiting Rudy Blanco, amongst others Blanco recently brought together various artists and held a neon party exhibit where artists created paintings while guests drank and socialized The event was held at Zipolite Art Gallery near the Cuale River. Across the river, Jovian has a beautiful new art gallery that is sending a strong message about the status quo of the art scene.

GAIA GALLERY

Conversation Corner, CLAROSCURO Opening

MANNMADE MEXICO

Karlos

Ibarra

PAJARO ROJO GALLERY

Galleria Brown, hosts Omar Garcia de Alba B. Symphony #7. Alba’s neo-syncretists explores Interconnectedness.

Galeria Uno

��

the Essence of Puerto Vallarta Living!

Escape to the vibrant heart of Puerto Vallarta's Colonia Las Canoas, where the rhythm of life aligns with the beauty of Invierno Street and Larazo Cardenas introducing our meticulously crafted rental studios, a trio of havens waiting to immerse you in the true essence of Mexican living

�� **Your Home Away From Home**

Indulge in the rich tapestry of colors, textures, and charm that define these meticulously designed studios Each space celebrates authentic Mexican living, providing the perfect setting to create lasting memories

�� **Experience the Real Mexico**

Rent one or all three studios together for an immersive Mexican experience Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a funfilled family retreat, our studios offer a genuine taste of Puerto Vallarta's culture and hospitality

�� **Embrace the Magic of Puerto Vallarta**

Wake up to the essence of a Mexican neighborhood – living their best lives. Explore the charming streets and embrace the warmth of the local community. Our rental studios provide the ideal base for your Puerto Vallarta adventure, ensuring you live your best life in this enchanting destination.

�� **Book Your Stay Now!**

"I Never Forget That I Am Working With Two Important Things... My Clients’ Money and My Reputation.”

MARC SERRAO Broker/Owner

Let our team of experts in Puerto Vallarta real estate get the most value for your money. Our boutique agency focuses on bringing our clients the personal and dedicated attention they deserve.

AXEL PEDRAZA

ROGER DUBOIS

CARMEN GARCIA

JOB GUTIERREZ

MILES GALLARDO

ALECIA MASTERS GABRIEL ROMERO and RANDY LEE

FERNANDO GARCIA

BRANDON ZARAZUA

THE BEACH

CLUB

Waves break in the background as you hear people chatter all around you, a nearby beach club is playing the right music, and the sun is lightly tap dancing across your skin A day at the beach can be a ritualistic experience, crafted with different components and stages Our man on the cover? Leading us through this quintessential beach day is an everyman; we’ll call him Sam, the man on the cover

PHOTOGRAPHYBYOMARRODRIGUEZ

Sam, The Man

Who is this herculean faceless man? Well, he's you, our reader. He's the representation of the universal desire for escape and relaxation To be that vacation persona you become when your feet touch the sand Go there, and let Sam guide you

Your beach outfit is ready, and you strut through the zona, making your way to the beach with all the essentials: Towels, drinks, reading material, sunscreen (you should never forget the sunscreen), speedo, and your favorite hat

Before the beach

Sam is doing it for the Gram & his gut. A picture is worth a thousand words, and beautiful fresh berries are in season to help you eat the rainbow. You can buy many locally grown berries from street vendors or farmers’ markets like The Three Hens & The Rooster on Rio Caule’s island. Plus, March launches Ataulfo mango season all across Mexico. A sweet & sour love affair will ensue. Cacao Nibs are the most powerful source of chronic disease-fighting antioxidants. Adding bee pollen has several benefits for healthy-looking skin and even helps reduce wrinkles. Capture it before you consume it as a perfect start to your beach day. #foodenvy #healthystarts #freshfruit #foodismedicine

BeachDayDesayuno

RecipebyMoryThomas

Serves1

1/2cuplow-fat,no-sugarGreekyogurt 1/3cupsugar-freenuttygranola 1tablespooncacaonibs

1/2Ataulfomango,peeledandthinlysliced 1/2cupmixedfreshlocalberries

1/2teaspoonbeepollen Adrizzleoflocalhoney(optional)

Swirl yogurt on a small plate. Top with the granola, nibs, mango, berries, and a scattering of berries. Finish with honey andenjoy.

UNVEILINGTHEBEACHYBLISSOFCLASSICMASSAGESIN PUERTOVALLARTA

Welcome to paradise, darling! Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, isn't just about sandy shores and sunsets; it's also a haven for indulgent massages that'll leave you feeling like royalty When it comes to relaxation, beach clubs in Puerto Vallarta serve up a classic menu of massages

We're decoding the diverse massage techniques that'll leave you feeling like royalty

Swedish Sweet Escape:

This gentle dance of flowing strokes is your golden ticket to relaxation. It's like a hug from a unicorn – pure magic.

Deep Tissue Delight:

For those who crave a massage ninja, this technique dives deep, kneading away tension and bidding farewell to stubborn knots

Hot Stone Hocus-Pocus:

Spice things up with heated stones melting away stress, offering a tropical getaway for your muscles

Aromatherapy Alchemy:

Inhale the sweet scent of relaxation with essential oils, creating a fragrant journey to tranquility

Thai Tango Stretch: Unleash your inner yoga master with dynamic stretches and compressions, leaving you feeling like a graceful dancer

Darlings, at the spa, it's not just a massage; it's a symphony of sensations tailored to pamper and rejuvenate Whether you prefer the Swedish sweetness or the Deep Tissue daring, there's a massage technique ready to whisk you away into a world of bliss Treat yourself –you deserve it!

Top5QuestionstoAskYourMassageTherapist:

1.Whatclassicmassagestylewouldyourecommendformy specificneeds?

2.Areanyspecialoilsoringredientsusedintheclassicmassages (Makesureit'sanoilbaseandnotcheaplotions.)

3.Canyoucustomizethepressureofclassicmassagestomy liking?

4.Arethereanypost-massagerecommendationsforoptimal relaxation?

5.What'syourfavoriteclassicmassageonthemenu? 30

“TRUST ME ON THE SUNSCREEN”

Your skin is the vessel for most vitamin D consumption, and being closer to the equator, Banderas Bay will ensure you get plenty of it Health experts say the two fastest ways to get your D on is by exposing your torso and legs –something northerners don’t get to do much of during the winter A 10-15 minute timed-out dose of bare skin sun soaking is okay for most, but Sam knows the importance of generous and frequent smatterings of 30 to 50 spf creams If you can’t reach the hard spots, ask for help -- and make a new friend

BY GUILLERMO HUERTA

WE REGRET TO INFORM YOU

Down by the river, Cuale that is, before crossing over the bridge that connects to El Caloso and Las Canoas, on your left-hand side you might have seen a small “shackie” restaurant You might have been curious about it and you’d be right to.

Balam Balam might just be the best place to get fresh seafood in town Their no-fuss slow cooking is the secret here. Once you walk up you’ll quickly spot their charcoal “grill” which mainly consists of fish that have been sworded through a stick and placed over the red coals

Our new recurring column is about the places in Puerto Vallarta that we hold dear to our hearts and should keep to ourselves, hence the title.

The tables sit under a tree and just feet away the river water passes by drowning out the city noises The customer service is friendly and quick The menu is made up of tacos, tostadas, and a few entrees. The fish tacos are the best I’ve had here or anywhere before. Order a cielo rojo, the local clamato and beer drink, and prepare to enjoy some of the best local fish you ’ re gonna find.

Seating is limited and can already be hard to get on a busy day and most people who have been visiting the city for a while now

this may already be a well-known option but for those visiting or anyone who has not yet visited this small but charming fish joint, you ’ re sure to love it as much as we do

Once you ’ ve finished your meal, we recommend walking it off alongside the river back into the zona romantica

Profiles

Society often expects men to exude ruggedness, but through my lens, I'm on a mission to flip that script –turning masculinity into a true work of art.

Q: What was your journey like before diving into photography, and how did your interest in this field develop over time?

Omar: I've always been a creative soul, dabbling in painting, music, and design. But you know what sparked my passion for photography? Stepping into the glamorous world of fashion as a hair and makeup artist, rubbing shoulders with famous models, strutting my stuff at runway shows, and getting a front-row seat to the whole production process – that's where the magic happened, and my love for photography truly blossomed.

Q: You've chosen a unique specialization in Boudoir or Dudoir (for men) photography. What inspired you to focus on this niche, and what challenges or successes have you encountered in this genre?

Omar: Honestly, it wasn't a deliberate decision. I dipped my toes into various photography realms like landscape, portrait, documentary, textures, and the whole shebang. Over time, I gravitated towards Boudoir, capturing individuals' more sensitive and authentic essence. Then came Dudoir. Society often expects men to exude ruggedness, but through my lens, I'm on a mission to flip that script – turning masculinity into a true work of art. It's been quite a journey, presenting challenges and successes, but I'm thrilled that many people resonate with the message I aim to convey through my work.

when dealing with clients, channel your inner superstar and never, I repeat, never hand out discounts on fabulousness!

Then I show them the VIP treatment they didn't even know they needed!

Q: Apart from Dudoir photography, are there other types of specialized photography that interest you, or what else would you like to explore in your career? Or, if you couldn't shoot anymore, what other career would you want to have?

Omar: I'm like a photography chameleon, adapting to various vibes! Over here in Puerto Vallarta, you'll catch me snapping shots at some wild gigs – think bear week, pride, and, of course, I always prioritize my home away from home: Casa Cupula, where I have the privilege to shoot many of their special events.

But hey, it's not all about the LGBTQ+ community or those steamy photos (although, let's be honest, those are a blast, lol). I've got a soft spot for family portraits, couples' sessions, capturing those magical marriage proposals, or hanging out with a couple looking to immortalize their visit to Vallarta.

Q: As a photographer, you must have some memorable moments. Can you share one of your most memorable experiences or a project that impacted you?

Omar: Convincing my bestie, who was feeling a bit out of sync with so-called beauty standards, to let me snap some pics for her was an absolute triumph. It was like opening a door to the modeling world for her, and she finally saw the true beauty that she possessed. That’s a big win in my book.

Seeing the joy on models' faces after they glimpse the final shots is a moment of pure happiness. It's the photographer's version of a victory dance.

Q: Being a fellow freelancer, what are some tips you can share with others to place value on your skills and services in the competitive world of photography?

Omar: Always remember: Your work is like fine wine – it gets better with time. Your talent -- well, let's say it's the crown jewel. So, when dealing with clients, channel your inner superstar and never, I repeat, never hand out discounts on fabulousness! Then I show them -- the VIP treatment they didn't even know they needed!

Omar

Q: Can you share with us where you grew up, and retrospectively, were there any signs from your childhood that influenced your career choice as a photographer?

Omar: I popped into this world in Torreón, Coahuila, and kicked it there until I hit the ripe age of 27. Then, I boogied my way to the bustling streets of Mexico City. I've been soaking up the sun and good vibes in Puerto Vallarta for the past three awesome years!

Since childhood, I enjoyed looking at all kinds of photos, especially black and white photos.

Q: Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful place; what specifically drew you to live and work here as a photographer?

Omar: I firmly believe that Vallarta has it all – stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and that authentic Mexican vibe. Oh, and let's not forget the incredible fun and, of course, the vibrant gay life! I was drawn to explore this fantastic place where you can truly connect with nature and soak in all its vibrant energy. Here, I allowed my passion for photography to become my primary artistic focus.

Q: Every photographer has a unique style. Can you tell us about your approach or signature in your photography work?

Omar: I like to keep it real with my photography style. Natural is the name of the game for me. I thrive on capturing moments bathed in natural light, whether in the great outdoors or a spot that perfectly vibes with the photo's concept. It's all about creating a harmonious blend in every shot.

Q: What secret power or unique skill sets you apart from other photographers, and how has it contributed to your success?

Omar: My aversion to excessive photo editing sets me apart – no Photoshop, no AI, and none of the fancy new tools that everyone's buzzing about these days. I believe that's my unique signature. When you glance at one of my photos, you can bet your bottom dollar that it's the same person in all their authentic glory lol.

Q: Apart from Dudoir photography, are there other types of specialized photography that interest you, or what else would you like to explore in your career? Or, if you couldn’t shoot anymore, what other career would you like to have?

Omar: If I could not work with photography anymore, I would still have my creative outlets as a hair and make-up artist and my social media company. What I would add, and the next area I would love to explore, is fashion design.

Q: On a lighter note, what do you do to unwind after a busy day, and are there any favorite places in Puerto Vallarta you like to visit for relaxation?

Omar: While I might seem like a party guy, the truth is, I'm the total opposite – give me some quality alone time, and I'm in my element. Crowds? No, gracias. I'm quite the introvert, recharging my batteries in the comfort of my personal space.

Add a When it comes to beautiful places, Vallarta and its neighbors like Quimixto and Playa Litibú always steal my heart. What I find especially beautiful is escaping to a cabin in the mountains, such as in San Sebastián or Mascota—that's my paradise.

Q: Are there specific goals or projects you aspire to take on in your photography career, and where do you see yourself in the next few years? What are you manifesting in your life today? Personally or professionally.

Omar: I would love to have my photography work displayed in public. I would love the opportunity to have exhibitions in restaurants, hotels, and galleries - and to sell my prints as the works of art they are. I want to flip the normal path and go from the digital to the physical world. It's time to let people soak in all the fabulousness in print!

Fiona

The energy of this bay is muy fuerte. I feel so connected to the universe here.

BuddhismandBeliefs:

Q:HowhasyourpracticeofBuddhisminfluencedyourperspectiveonlifeand yourinteractionswithothers,especiallyinadiverseplacelikePuertoVallarta?

Fiona:IpracticeNichirenDaishoninBuddhism,andNamMyohoRengeKyois thetitleofthelotussutra(thechant)IhavebeenaSokaGakkaiInternational (SGI)memberfor22yearsUnlikeotherreligions,forme,I’mmyownlittlegod walkingaroundThechantiscallingforthyourhighestlifecondition–the BuddhaItisthetoolthatgivesmethestrength,thecourage,andthebeliefthat nomatterwhathappensinmylife,itservesapurpose,allowsmetogrow,and createvalueFormeit’slikemicrocosmmacrocosm Thesamepoweroutthereisinyou-connected!

LivinghereasaBuddhist,IbelieveinthepoweroflifeandeachhumanIt’s aboutrespectingeachother TheBanderasBaysurroundsushere,andshe remindsusofourvalueandplaceintheworldTheenergyofthisbayismuy fuerteIfeelsoconnectedtotheuniversehere

She means so much to so many people in very different diverse ways. Look at how many lives she touches.

AclosefriendwasaskedaboutFionaandthisiswhattheyshared

PlatformInspires:

Q:TellusmoreaboutPlatformInspiresWhatmadeyoustartthisinitiative,and howdoyouenvisionitbringinghopeandchange?

Fiona:IwantedtocreateacommunityofinspirationWeliveinaworldthat experiencesallthe"isms"oflife:racism,sexism,ageism,colorism,andit'snever madesensetome PlatformInspires'missionistoinspire,encourage,and supportyoutokeepgoingwithyourbigdreams–eventhoughitseemslifesays no.Theuniversekeptsendingmepeoplesaying,"Weneedtohearfromyou!". Platform,asIcallit,hadthehonorofhavingCherrelleSkeete,oneofthefirst blackactressesintheHarryPottertheaterproduction,asourfirstinterview

Cherrellesharedastoryaboutbeingaskedtospeaktoachildren’sschoolinNew Delhi, India On the Skype call, she encouraged little girls to succeed at any dreamtheyhad.Iwasblownawaybyhowpowerfulitwastowitnessablack womantellingNewDhelichildrenthatanythingispossible So,that'showit started. I employ young people, sometimes giving them their first job. This journeyledmetotheGlobalYouthAwards,whereIwashonoredtomeetmany talentedyoungandpositivepeoplewhovalidatedPlatformInspires'purpose

Life'sJourney

Q:You'vebeenvisitingPuertoVallartaforover20yearsandrecentlymoved hereduringthepandemic Whatmadeyoudecidetomakethisplaceyourhome afteralltheseyears?

Fiona:Ifyouremember,thingsgotprettydarkreallyfastintheUKduringthe pandemic'sbeginning Theyweretellingusweweregoingtodie,soIwantedto beinherhappyplace,hereinPuertoVallarta Plus,Ihadrecentlyboughta condo here, and it was closer to my father, who was living in Trinidad Unfortunately, my father passed away in November of 2020, and as the pandemic raged on, it didn't make sense to keep paying rent in the UK So, having secured my home studio, I chose to stay in the sun, sand, and the peacefulpoweroftheBanderasBay.

VolunteeringandCompassion:

Q:Volunteeringwithalocalorphanage,RISE,isheartwarming Whatdrewyou to this cause, and how has it shaped your understanding of community and compassioninPV?

Fiona:IwasinvitedtoSoYouThinkYouCanRise,theannualfundraiserfor theorphanage,whichI’mbackstagehelpandthevoiceofrightnow Isawso many familiar faces in the crowd and loved how many local businesses supportedthekids,soIimmediatelyreachedoutandsignedupasavolunteer I startedwithagroupcalledFiona’sFutureDivisionwiththeolderkids(4-12).I challengedthemtomakedrawingsaboutdifferentthings:thefuture,friendship, andloveforthefirsthour,andthesecondhourwasdancing Today,Ispendmy timeinthenurserywithbabies–supportingthenannies.Thesechildrensaved me! Being in Puerto Vallarta alone while navigating career and relationship changeshasbeenchallenging Thekidshelpedrefillmyheart Dedicatingtimeat RISEhasalsogroundedandremindedmeofthemissionofPlatformInspires, mycompany,whichhasbeenonpauselately

Read the full interview online

Learn about her voice-over career, tattoo choices, cultural embrace philosophy, her recent stint as Princess of the Porch, and why she sat out alone at 16.

Q:Canyousharewithuswhereyougrewup,andretrospectively,were thereanysignsfromyourchildhoodthatinfluencedyourcareerchoiceas aphotographer?

Omar:IpoppedintothisworldinTorreón,Coahuila,andkickeditthere untilIhittheripeageof27.Then,Iboogiedmywaytothebustling streetsofMexicoCity.I'vebeensoakingupthesunandgoodvibesin PuertoVallartaforthepastthreeawesomeyears!

Sincechildhood,Ienjoyedlookingatallkindsofphotos,especiallyblack andwhitephotos

Q:PuertoVallartaisabeautifulplace;whatspecificallydrewyoutolive andworkhereasaphotographer?

Omar:IfirmlybelievethatVallartahasitall–stunningbeaches,majestic mountains,andthatauthenticMexicanvibe Oh,andlet'snotforgetthe incrediblefunand,ofcourse,thevibrantgaylife!Iwasdrawntoexplore thisfantasticplacewhereyoucantrulyconnectwithnatureandsoakin allitsvibrantenergy Here,Iallowedmypassionforphotographyto becomemyprimaryartisticfocus.

Q:Everyphotographerhasauniquestyle Canyoutellusaboutyour approachorsignatureinyourphotographywork?

Omar:Iliketokeepitrealwithmyphotographystyle Naturalisthe nameofthegameforme.Ithriveoncapturingmomentsbathedin naturallight,whetherinthegreatoutdoorsoraspotthatperfectlyvibes withthephoto'sconcept It'sallaboutcreatingaharmoniousblendin everyshot

Q:Onalighternote,whatdoyoudotounwindafterabusyday,andare thereanyfavoriteplacesinPuertoVallartayouliketovisitforrelaxation?

Omar:WhileImightseemlikeapartyguy,thetruthis,I'mthetotalopposite –givemesomequalityalonetime,andI'minmyelement Crowds?No, gracias.I'mquitetheintrovert,rechargingmybatteriesinthecomfortofmy personalspace.

AddaWhenitcomestobeautifulplaces,Vallartaanditsneighborslike QuimixtoandPlayaLitibúalwaysstealmyheart WhatIfindespecially beautifulisescapingtoacabininthemountains,suchasinSanSebastiánor Mascota that'smyparadise

Q:Aretherespecificgoalsorprojectsyouaspiretotakeoninyour photographycareer,andwheredoyouseeyourselfinthenextfewyears? Whatareyoumanifestinginyourlifetoday?Personallyorprofessionally

Omar:Iwouldlovetohavemyphotographyworkdisplayedinpublic I wouldlovetheopportunitytohaveexhibitionsinrestaurants,hotels,and galleries-andtosellmyprintsastheworksofarttheyare.Iwanttoflipthe normalpathandgofromthedigitaltothephysicalworld It'stimetolet peoplesoakinallthefabulousnessinprint!

PersonalJourneyandInspiration:

Q:"Alfredo,couldyoushareyourjourneyfromSonoratoPuertoVallarta?Whatinspired youtomove,andhowhasthistransitioninfluencedyourpersonalandprofessionallife?"

Alfredo:"IarrivedinPuertoVallartaattheendof2018 Initially,Icamejustforavacation, butIwassurprisedtofindanenvironmentwhereIcouldliveandexpressmyselffreely Thatwasthemainreasonformydecisiontostayandsettlehere UnlikeinSonora,being myself here offered more advantages than embarrassments This residence change has contributedtomysenseofbelongingandacceptance Intermsofmyprofessionallife,thetransitiontoPuertoVallartahasprovidedmewitha series of job opportunities that have been truly enriching, both professionally and personally I'vebeenfortunatetoholdpositionsthathaveallowedmetogrowinmycareer as an Industrial Engineer and given me a platform to contribute significantly to the LGBTIQ+community."

RoleintheGayGames:

Q:"Asanambassadorforthe2023GayGames,whatkeymessagesorvaluesdidyouaimto promote? How do you feel these Games impact the LGBTQ+ community and wider society?"

Alfredo: "Iconfess,IinitiallyhesitatedtoacceptthisappointmentbecauseI'mnotan athlete However,whenIunderstoodtheessenceoftheGames,Idecidedtoaccept To participate,youdon'tneedtobeahigh-performanceathleteorhaveevenpracticedsports Yourreligion,skincolor,genderexpression,orsexualpreferencesdonotmatter

ThemainmessageIsoughttocommunicateisthat,formeandmanyothers,theGay Gamesrepresentthepossibilityofbeingincludedandrespected'forthefirsttimeinsports' withoutfearofbeingexposedtohostileandhomophobicenvironments

TheimportanceoftheGayGamesisunderscoredbytheexclusionaryrulesandbehaviors stillpresentinmajorinternationalsportsevents,likeFIFA,wheretheirrulesandrestrictions favorexclusionanddiscriminationagainstmembersoftheLGBTIQ+community"

InvolvementwithPrepVallarta:

Q:"WorkingwithPrepVallartamustbeafulfillingexperience Couldyoutellusmore aboutyourroleinthisorganizationandhowitcontributestothecommunityinPuerto Vallarta?"

Alfredo:"Definitely,PrEPVallartarepresentsapersonalandprofessionalachievementand satisfaction In2023,acoupleofdoctorfriendsandIdecidedtostartthe'PrEPVallarta' project My training as an Industrial Engineer has given me a great advantage as an entrepreneur,asitallowsmetoperformvariousfunctionswithinthebusiness,ranging fromstrategicplanning,finance,logistics,marketing,andpublicrelationstosales PrEP Vallarta' facilitates immediate access to timely prevention tools, such as medical consultations,medications,andlaboratorytests,righttothedoorstepsofthosewhorequest them Ibelievetheexistenceofbusinessesandprojectslike'PrEPVallarta'haveasignificant positiveimpactonourcommunity,especiallyinPuertoVallartaandthestateofJalisco, whichisoneofthestateswithahighincidenceofHIVcases."

ArtisticEndeavors:

Q:"Yourworkasanartistisquitefascinating Howdoyoublendyourpassionforpainting with your advocacy work? Do you find that your experiences influence your art in LGBTQ+activism?"

Alfredo: "My passion for painting intertwines with my desire to communicate ideas, emotions,andnarrativesthroughart Paintingbecomesapowerfulwaytoconnectwith othersandconveyimportantmessages Ihaveusedarttoshareprotestmessages Ibelieve artopensupinfinitepossibilitiestohelpothersand,aboveall,tohelpandrebuildmyself SomeofmypaintingsrelatetomyexperiencesasamanwhoispartoftheLGBTIQ+ community,raisedinamachoandhomophobicenvironment Atthispoint,Ihaveused mycreativitytochallengeprejudicesandfosterunderstandingandacceptance,specifically withoneofmypaintingstitled'LloraMariquita'(CryLadybug)"

Alfredo

RoleinthePrideOrganizationalCommittee:

Q:"BeingapartofthePrideOrganizationalcommitteehasasignificantresponsibility WhatareyourgoalsandvisionsforPrideeventsinPuertoVallarta?Howdoyouplanto engageandunitedifferentsectionsofthecommunity throughtheseevents?"

Alfredo:"Thesharedvisionofeveryoneonthecommitteeisthateveryevent/spaceof VallartaPrideshouldbewhereeveryone,regardlessoftheirsexualorientationorgender identity, feels welcome, safe, celebrated, and represented To achieve this, we plan to collaborate closely with various groups and organizations within the LGBTIQ+ communityandbeyond Thisincludesworkingwithcommunityleaders,localbusiness owners,non-profitorganizations,andthelocalgovernment Thisyear,VallartaPridewill surprise and generate great expectations with the presentation of its activity program Expectgreatnewssoon"

Favorite Things

SweetTreats

When you get hit with the, I gotta haves -- here’s where our team scratches the itch.

Salud Super Foods

Mercado Emiliano Zapata

Lazaro Cardenas

Zona Romantic

MON - SAT 8 AM - 4 PM

Sabores Helados

Two doors from Il Pesce

Calle Constitución 279

Zona Romantic

Churro Guy

TUE SUN 12 PM - 10 PM

A “cookie” combination of oats, carrot, grated coconut, blueberries, cardamom and sweetened with a little honey This is the responsible choice

Calle Aguacate 216

Next to the yellow church

Zona Romantic

MON SUN 4 AM - 9 PM

If Tastemaker Miguel is dishing scoops, he will encourage you to sample them all until you find the one His combos are spot on, and he believes in low-sugar methods to let the flavorings shine

Breakfast cookie

Vanilla

Goat Cajeta

Brown Butter Pecan

While you watch, a delicious, light, hand-cranked, and sliced batter sizzles in the hot oil Next, tongs toss the crisp fried dough fingers in the perfect cinnamon sugar Only 3 pesos each!

Pavlova Pasteleria

Calle Pavo Real 142

Las Aralias

Let's Pho

Calle Lázaro Cárdenas 179

Zona Romántica

MON SAT 7 AM - 9 PM

SUN 10 AM - 6 PM

TUE - SUN 11 AM - 9:30 PM

MON 4 PM - 9:30

Pie In The Sky

CalleAquilesSerdán242

ZonaRomántica and

MON - SAT 9 AM - 9 PM SUN 10 AM - 9 PM

Just the thought of getting to taste anything from Pav, as we refer to them, makes us tearyeyed It’s hard to go wrong, but our top picks are: You might be scratching your head at first glance, but trust us when we say they know cake, too! We went for the yummy pho and left with carrot cake

Churros

Cinnamon Rolls

Tres Leches w/ Fresh Berries

Raspberry Mascarpone Cake

If something smaller won’t do, go big AND go home with it They also have cakes by the slice

Carrot Cake

Mango Cheesecake

Coconut Cream Pie

Lemon Cheesecake