$7 billion dollar port to be built in Mexico

Mexico is going to start taking bids in early 2008 for the construction of a $7 billion dollar port, which will become the largest port on the west coast.

The site for the new port is Punta Colonet, south of Ensenada in Baja California Norte.

For the article, visit Mexico Port

What is "Menaje de Casa"?

When you plan a move to Mexico, there are certain things that you will want to take with you. You may hear the term "menaje de casa". So, what does it mean? Menaje de casa is a list of items to be imported into Mexico. Mexican Customs is VERY strict about what you can and can't bring into the country. For example, you cannot label a box with clothes and shoes in it "Shoes and Clothes". You must be very specific. Example: 5 pairs of shoes, 15 shirts.

For a list of what can be imported, visit your local Mexican consulate before you go. This can save you a lot of time and headaches. You must submit your list or menaje to your consulate for approval. Any electronics must have the model number written down next to the product description. The list must be translated in Spanish.

A Golfer's Paradise

If you love to golf and love luxury, then check out the Capella resort in Punta Maroma, Mexico.

More info here

Useful website for information on Mexico

If you want to find out about all Mexico has to offer, the Mexican Board of Tourism has a great site with tons of information. The website is offered in a number of languages, which allows people from all over the world to access the site.

The website has in depth information on a number of cities and activities.

Check it out: Visit Mexico

Condotels in Mexico

What do you get when you cross a condo with a hotel? A Condotel! Condotels are the new rage and are popping up all over Mexico.

Condotel owners have the ability to rent out their condos when they aren’t in town, which is a good option for people who want to invest in a vacation home while earning rental income. The developments have their own property management teams who will make sure your condo is well taken care of in your absence. They can handle all the details of renting your condo.

Another benefit of purchasing a unit in a condotel is that you have room service and a cleaning crew at your disposal. Feeling hungry but don’t feel like going out? Just order room service!

Loans in Mexico and the Mortgage Meltdown in the US

When you turn on the news or pick up a newspaper these days, it is common to see headlines like "Mortgage Meltdown" or "Subprime Crisis". Foreclosures are at record highs and many people are close to losing their homes. In this post, I will explain what this means to Mexico.

Loans for Mexican properties are not "subprime loans"
Up until a few months ago, consumers were able to buy property in the US with no money down (100% financing) and no documentation of assets/employment verification. This meant that people were getting in way over their heads because they were getting approved for large amounts of money that they did not have the ability to pay back. Loans in Mexico do not fall into the subprime category. Documentation is required as well as a good to excellent credit score.

Property values in most areas of Mexico are appreciating
Mexico has been experiencing a boom for the past few years, and continues to see appreciation in resort areas. Unlike the US, prices are not dropping by 20% or 30%. Resort areas are seeing an increased number of baby boomers buying 2nd homes or primary residences.

Strong Canadian currency
The Canadian economy is stronger than ever. It reached parity with the US Dollar last month and today it has surpassed the US Dollar. Canadians have more purchasing power and many are choosing to buy in Mexico.

Holidays in Mexico

If you are buying property in Mexico, it is important to know about Mexican holidays. You may need to talk to the notario, make a bank transaction, etc, but be surprised to find that no one is working on one of these days.

MEXICO HOLIDAYS
January 1-New Year's Day
January 6-Three Kings Day (Tres Reyes)
February 5-Constitution Day
February 14-Valentine's Day
February 24-Flag Day
March 18-Oil Expropriation Day
March 21-Benito Juarez's Birthday
April 30-Children's Day
May 1-Labor Day
May 5-Battle of Puebla Day
May 10-Mother's Day
May 15-Teacher's Day
Third Sunday of June-Father's Day
September 15-16-Mexican Independence Day
October 12-Columbus Day
November 1-All Saint's Day
November 2-All Soul's Day
November 20-Revolution Day
December 12-Virgin of Guadalupe Day
December 24-Christmas Eve
December 25-Christmas Eve
December 28-Day of the Holy Innocent
December 31-New Year's Eve

Please note that not all holidays are observed by banks and companies (example: Teacher's Day).

Zihuatanejo to get a new Viceroy hotel and residences

The reknowned Viceroy hotel chain is set to expand its Mexico footprint by adding a luxury resort and residences in the Zihuatenejo area in 2010. This will be the chain's 2nd beach resort in Zihuatanejo, the first being The Tides resort on Zihuatenejo Bay.

The architectural firm of Denniston International hopes to create a luxurious, yet relaxed atmosphere. For more information on The Kor Group's properties, please visit: www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Mexico?

Many people are enticed by the thought of living in a foreign country. New adventures, new food, a new language, new friends...

If you don't speak the language of the area you are planning to move to, don't worry! The very best way to learn a new language is by immersion. It is difficult at first--not understanding what they are asking or not knowing how to get your point across--but it does get better. You can use sign language, draw things on napkins, or even play charades to communicate in your new language. I highly suggest watching the local tv channels and reading the newspapers in Spanish. While it may seem like you aren't getting anywhere at first you will be amazed at how many words you start to pick up.

In Mexico, the locals are very appreciative of anyone who tries to speak Spanish. Your effort shows that you are respectful of the culture and interested in getting to know the people.

On the other hand, if you have a difficult time learning languages or memorizing, don't despair. There are plenty of expat communities where the main language spoken is English, however, learning Spanish will make your life much easier and your new life in Mexico much more fulfilling.

Good News for Puerto Peñasco

For all of those Southern Californians who love going to Rocky Point (Puerto Peñasco) but hate to drive I have good news. Aeromexico has announced it will be offering flights from LAX to Puerto Peñasco on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. These flights will make the once sleepy fishing village more accessible to travelers from California. The increased tourism will also have a positive impact on the local economy.

Flights to Mexico on Volaris

For those of you who live in Southern California, you now have a new option when flying to Mexico. Volaris, a Mexican airline that entered the market in 2006, is offering low fares and exceptional customer service. The airline offers a shuttle service from the Santa Fe Depot (train station in Downtown San Diego) to the airport in Tijuana.

The airline possesses one of the youngest fleets in Mexico. Their planes are clean and spacious. The service is top-notch. Passengers are offered snacks and beverages during the flight and have the option of watching tv or listening to the radio.


I have personally flown Volaris several times and I must say that it has been a great experience every time. One of the best parts about Volaris is that if they arrive late, they will give you a free ticket for your next trip. How great is that?

To check out fares visit: Volaris

International Property Buying Trips

Once you've decided you want to buy a primary residence or a vacation home in another country, it is important that you narrow down your list and decide where you want to live. If you have a certain city or region in mind the best way to find a place to live is to go on a buying trip.

There are many private individuals and consulting firms that offer these services. You can go with a group or by yourself. The most important thing is that you see what the area has to offer. Something may look great on the Internet, but turn out to be a lot different in person. For example, let's say you are looking for a new condo. You've checked out the website and read their fancy, glossy brochures. When you get there you discover that they are doing construction on another tower for the next two years. Do you really want to listen to the jackhammer every morning? These are the things that you can only discover by visiting a property first hand.

Another good way to find out if the area is right for you is to ASK AROUND. Ask people who live in the area what they like and dislike. They will be happy to answer your questions and may bring up points you had not thought about.

Good luck!

Megayachts in Mexico

For those of you who were wondering where to dock your yacht in Mexico, the answer is here. Mexico will soon be home to two new megayacht ports: Liberty Cove in Puerto Libertad, Sonora, and Porto Hussong in Ensenada, Baja California.
These large scale developments will lure travelers from all over the world.

Liberty Cove, slated to be the "Monaco of Mexico", is located south of Arizona and sits on the Sea of Cortez. It is said to be the largest single development in all of Mexico.

On the Pacific side of Baja California, Porto Hussong will provide refuge for international yachters. The development has already received numerous inquiries from around the world for slips in the marina. The oceanfront condominium resort and private residence club will have its grand opening in the summer of 2009.

SPOTLIGHT: Manzanillo

Today we are highlighting one of the most spectacular places on the Mexican Riviera, Manzanillo. Manzanillo is located in the state of Colima,
Manzanillo is one of Mexico's most important ports, receiving the largest volume of cargo in the country. The city is also well known for its fishing and many call it the "Sailfish Capital of the World".

The Las Hadas Resort, made famous by Bo Derek in the movie "10", is one of the most exclusive resorts in Mexico. The white Moorish-style resort is perched high on a hillside and has sweeping views of the bay.

The city, with one of the lowest crime rates in Mexico, has attracted people from all over the world. Manzanillo isn't as well known as some of Mexico's other resort towns, but residents say that is part of its charm. Manzanillo's beaches, Salahua, Las Hadas, Miramar, La Boquita, La Audiencia and Santiago are perfect for those looking for swimming or surfing.

There are plenty of good restaurants in Manzanillo. Some favorites are Bigotes, Juanitos, Oasis, and L'Recif.

Notario vs. Notary

Are a notary in the United States and a Notario in Mexico the same? NO!! Here are the main differences:

A Notario is a high-ranking government appointed official who possesses a law degree and has extensive training in a number of legal areas.

A Notary is someone who has taken and passed a government issued test in the United States, but does not require any formal training.

A Notario can give legal advice and assist with disputes.

A Notary mainly handles clerical matters, such as bearing witness to signature of documents and administering oaths.

A Notario in Mexico will make sure that your deed or fideicomiso is correct and will also register it in the public registry. Notarios can also assist with immigration paperwork and incorporation.
Finding a good Notario is a key part of your Mexican real estate transaction. Most realtors have someone they use on a regular basis, but it is always good to ask for references.

Travel Articles about Mexico

Mexico has long been a favorite vacation spot for honeymooners and people looking for relaxation and pampering. These travel articles highlight various resort destinations in Mexico and are sure to give you that extra motivation you need to book your flight and hotel and head south of the border! You might like it so much, you decide to stay. :)

Travel + Leisure

Go World Travel

Conde Nast Traveler

American Way Inflight Magazine

Help the people of Tabasco

Last week, Tabasco, a state located in the south of Mexico, was devastated by torrential rains and flooding . The scenes in Tabasco were reminiscent of Hurricane Katrina--flood victims stranded, standing on their homes with no help in sight. Early reports say that up to 800,000 people may be left homeless, as over 80% of the state is underwater. All of the state's crops have been lost, resulting in a tremendous economic loss for farmers and exporters.


Mexican President Felipe Calderon has sent in the Mexican military to assist with the rescue efforts, but due to the fact that victims can only by reached by boat and helicopter the rescue will take some time. Rain is in the forecast for this week, so the people of Tabasco will not see relief for some time.


Tabasco from the Air

Please donate to the Cruz Roja (Red Cross) or any other organization that is organizing relief efforts. The people of Tabasco need your help!

Canadian Dollar Hits Record High

The Canadian Dollar has reached an all time high on news that unemployment is at its lowest level in 33 years. The Canadian government has reported that five times more jobs than originally forecasted for the month of October. The Canadian currency has gained 24.6 percent against the US Dollar in 2007. With steady job growth, high oil prices, and a weak US currency, the Canadian Dollar is expected to increase.

So, what does this mean for the real estate sector? More and more Canadians are snapping up properties in the United States and Mexico. The combination of their strong currency and the slowdown in the US housing market has created a number of real estate investment opportunities for Canadians. If the prices of Mexican real estate seemed attractive before, now they look even better.

50 and over? Head to Nuevo Vallarta

Luma has announced the groundbreaking of a new active adult community in Nuevo Vallarta, Jalisco. Nuevo Vallarta is located 16 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. This active adult community will be home to the over 50 crowd in search of sun, fun and relaxation. These communities are a great option for those who want to feel part of community without the rigid schedules and confinment of an assisted living home.

The stunning development will have over 400 units, half of which will be beachfront. In addition to the stunning views, Luma will offer a "Lifestyle Concierge", ready to cater to your every whim.

To read more about Luma, visit their website:

Luma Living