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General Information about Nayarit, Mexico

Nayarit is situated in a spectacular landscape that is unique among Mexican resorts. Located in the Banderas Bay, (one of the largest bays in the world) on the Punta de Mita peninsula and the pristine beaches north provides a diversity of scenery that makes Nayarit more than your average "fun in the sun" spot. Not only will you find all of the usual beach/ocean activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, surfing, fishing, boogie boarding and sunbathing, there is also a wide variety of land and sea tours to enjoy. The Bay is also a major breeding ground for whales. During winter and spring there are numerous whale-watching tours where you will see humpback whales and dolphins. You may find yourself on a tropical jungle expedition learning about the flora and fauna indigenous to the area or zipping through the jungle on cables suspended hundreds of feet above the ground. There are tours where you can get a taste of Mexican culture, learn about the areas history, and the traditions. The endless list of activities, the friendly people, the warm, family oriented culture, and the world class facilities and private accommodations available all combine to provide an unforgettable vacation experience that you will not want to end.

Climate

The climate is semi-tropical with an average temperature of 75F (24C) in winter months and 85F (29C) in summer, with sea breezes year around. The months of November through May are practically free of rainfall providing day after day of sunshine, while intermittent late afternoon showers and high humidity is typical June through October.

Time Zone

Puerto Vallarta is on Central Standard Time and changes to Daylight Savings Time each year along with the United States. When it is 9.00 a.m. in Puerto Vallarta, it is 7:00 a.m. in Los Angeles (Pacific Time) and 10:00 a.m. in New York (Eastern Time.)

BUT, when it is 9:00 a.m. in Puerto Vallarta it is 8:00 a.m. in Nayarit!

When in Mexico the locals usually go on Puerto Vallarta time, so if you are making arrangements for tours or transportation of any kind, or planning any functions, i.e. weddings, make sure you communicate which time you are making your plans around.

Clothing

The atmosphere is casual anywhere you go in Nayarit. Dress with the weather in mind. In the winter, nights are a little chilly, but in the summer they are usually balmy. You may want to carry an umbrella during the evenings in the rainy season (June to October), but a heavy jacket would only be needed if you plan to take an excursion into the mountains.  

Adults

As of January 1, 2007 everyone visiting Mexico will need a valid passport (also required for re-entering the US or Canada). Citizens of most Western European countries are required to have a valid visa to enter the USA and a tourist card. A visa to Mexico is not required. Visitors from other countries and non-citizen residents of the US and Canada should check with the Mexican Embassy (www.embassyofmexico.org) for visa information.

Minor Children

As of January 1, 2007 children will need a valid passport. If you are traveling with minor children, you must have certified proof of their relationship to you and written, notarized permission from the parent(s) not accompanying them. Check with the Mexican Embassy for details.

Vehicles

Proof of ownership and Mexican Insurance are required for driving in Mexico and there are limits on the number of motorized vehicles (RV's, motorcycles, etc.) you may bring into the country. As laws governing driving and accidents are not the same as in the US or Canada, it is a very good idea to get information before traveling from your automobile club or from the Mexican Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Airport

Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport lies 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) northeast of the city and is one of the most modern and convenient airports in Mexico. The entire building is air-conditioned and offers a money exchange, restaurant, snack bar, bars, shops and newsstands. Its relatively small size makes it easy to locate friends or hotel transportation meeting flights.

Travel Insurance

It is a good idea to make sure you are covered with travel medical coverage/or travel assistance coverage when visiting Mexico or any other destination you may travel to.

Cell Phones

The best advice is to call your provider and find out if your particular phone is a “Tri Band”. This allows you to use the GSM (Global System for Mobile) network in Mexico. This will work as long as your provider has enabled international roaming on your account and there is a reciprocal agreement with Telmex (Mexico phone company.) You need to know that roaming charges are very high. This is worth it if you plan to travel to Mexico frequently.

Know that you can buy a “Pre-pay” Mexican cell phone. This will cost between $75 and $100 for a “phone kit” which includes a phone, charger and up to half the cost price in call credit included. Top-up cards can be purchased in denominations of 100, 200, 300 and 500 pesos at various locations and you can increase your call credit at anytime. The credit must be used within 60 days. The network has an English option to manage your account. This phone will work only in Mexico.

If you are going for the first time, you may want to rent a mobile phone. You will need I.D. and a credit card to do this. An imprint of your credit card will be held as collateral for the phone. There is a daily charge for the phone and ask if this charge includes insurance or not. If you are making international calls the charges may be very high because of roaming.

US “calling cards” are an option too. The access numbers in Mexico are:
AT&T – 01-800-462-4240
Sprint – 01-800-877-8000
MCI – 01-800-674-7000 And then there are pay phones that you can call where you need to and either pay cash or reverse the charges.

Electrical

Local voltage is 110 to 120 volts AC.

State of Riviera Nayarit Destination Information Presentation

Paradise at $2 Million an Acrea (Salon.com Article)

Real Estate (Money's Worth article from the Wall Street Journal Online)

Mexican Resorts Show No Sign of Catching U.S. Housing's Cold (Los Angeles Times)

Mexico is quickly becoming the place of choice for retiring Americans and Canadians.

Borrowing money for the purchase of real estate in Mexico has never been easier!

If you are a beneficiary or trustee of a foreign trust, (i.e., Fideicomiso) or have a bank account with a balance over $10,000, you must file a special form.

Nayarit is a state of privileges. Its excellent geographic location and its extraordinary natural resources are catching the eyes of the North Americans to live and invest in Nayarit.

Using IRA Funds for Real Estate Investing