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Rivera Cuale – An Ecosystem: Part 1
Every time I arrive at Rivera Cuale, I marvel at the glory of the surrounding nature, pristine and pure. My eyes feast on all the colors of the plants and my ears rejoice in the calls of the many birds and the river rushing by. Recently, it was like I suddenly woke up and saw the bigger picture, that Rivera Cuale is not only home to various plants, birds, fish, insects and animals, but so much more. Rivera Cuale is an ecosystem, a community of living organisms and nonliving elements all in delicate balance, linked together through nutrient cycle and energy flow. All of the elements and organisms of this precious ecosystem, including people, are interdependent on one another to support each other and render life possible. The air, water, soil and sunlight nourish the plants, the plants produce the oxygen in the air that we breathe, and through photosynthesis, food. This food is the nourishment for our ecosystem’s wildlife and insects, which in turn are the food of other organisms, and thus goes the food web. When we exhale, we emit carbon dioxide, which the plants absorb and use in the photosynthesis process.
In this article, I will tell you a little about some of the animal life we find in the Rivera Cuale ecosystem. In future articles, I will take you on a tour of our many varied plant species.
The Puerto Vallarta countryside is one of the most unique ecological environments in all of Mexico. The city is positioned between three different mountain ranges, creating the unique and diverse plant and animal wildlife that is found throughout the city and the area beyond. 
The north side of the city has a more deciduous forest type of wildlife and the east and south sides are more like a sub-tropical jungle.
From high in the Sierra Madre flows the Cuale River, as it makes its life-giving journey through the mountains on its way to the Bay of Banderas. A truly integral part of Puerto Vallarta and its history, the river winds through El Caloso and Old Town. It is here that Rivera Cuale is located, on the river’s very banks. To the north, east and south are spectacular mountains, and to the west lie the town and the Bay of Banderas. The combination of mountains and fresh river water bring cooling breezes to the area.
Being situated on the banks of the Cuale River offers the unique opportunity and privilege of giving back to that which has given so much to the community. Caring for this most precious of resources is a responsibility that Rivera Cuale has embraced and incorporated into its philosophy of sustainable development. Integrating nature with its design, Rivera Cuale is a tropical oasis in the city, surrounded by the unaffected beauty of the river and mountains, flora and fauna. Here, life is reminiscent of a simpler time, and nature abounds.
The Cuale River and the banks around it are home and shelter to many different bird species, like the Great White Egret. These graceful creatures perch statuesquely on boulders, waiting for the passing water to bring them small fish, frogs and reptiles. When it’s time to move on, they spread their angel-like wings into graceful flight. You can see 
many other birds around Rivera Cuale, including herons, great-tailed grackles (blackbirds), frigate birds, hummingbirds, kingfishers, cormorants, swallows, wrens and others. Just down the river at the bay and up the river in the mountains there are so many more to see too.
You may be surprised to learn that there are a couple species of squirrels native to the mid west coast where Puerto Vallarta is located. One is the Colima tree squirrel, and the other is the ring-tailed ground squirrel. At Rivera Cuale you will likely see the tree squirrels, moving so adeptly through the trees that they appear to be flying. These cute little critters are ever-industrious, looking for and hiding away food and foraging for materials to build their nests. They are especially active in the mornings and around sunset. They have tails that are longer than the combined length of their head and body, which they use to maintain their balance and not fall to the ground when running about in the treetops. They typically eat fruit and seeds, and some observers have said they eat plums, wild mushrooms and coconuts.
Many varieties of iguanas, a genus of lizard, live around the river, which is a natural habitat for these majestic creatures. They like to bathe in the river and pass time in the trees. Their coloring helps them to blend into vegetation as a means of camouflage from predators. They spend a lot of time in the sun to soak up heat, as they are cold-blooded and cannot produce their own. Since they are diurnal, they are awake during the day, so you will likely spot one, or many! While they are often seen lazily lounging about in the sun, they can move surprisingly fast! Generally, by the time you have seen them, they have already seen you, and if you make any movement they slip stealthily away into the underbrush or river. Most iguanas are herbivores and dine on plants, flowers and fruit, but some will eat eggs, insects and small vertebrates.
Another genus of lizard, the gecko, is native to the area. Referred to as “cuizas” in Vallarta, these tiny lizards are everywhere and like to visit your home, which is a blessing because they eat insects. They are harmless and really unique looking, with no eyelids and skin so translucent you can almost see right through them; they sometimes look like they are made of rubber and could be mistaken for a toy if not for the chirping noise they make when socially interacting with other geckos. You can observe them from a fairly close distance, but as you get within arm’s length, they come alive and scurry and wiggle their way to safety. Some geckos will even drop their tail in defence, or if caught by the tail so they can get away, but they have the ability to regenerate them. Many gecko species are well known for their specialized toe pads that enable them to climb smooth and vertical surfaces, and even cross indoor ceilings with ease. They like to hide behind paintings, in nooks and crannies, and in window frames even, so take care when closing your windows!
We also see a wide variety of butterflies, who make themselves at home in the gardens, and bees too, which come to feed on the flowers’ nectar and pollen. The bees then (unintentionally through contact) pollinate the same or other flowers by transferring pollen to them, which is a prerequisite for the fertilization that allows flowers to reproduce by making seeds…seeds that produce food. Butterflies and hummingbirds are pollinators too, as well as some other insects we see, like moths and flies. Rivera Cuale is also home to many beautiful dragonflies…and what do they eat? Butterflies, bees, and other smaller insects, like pesky mosquitoes! While hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers, they also get their energy from tree sap. And where did these flowers and trees get their energy from? The sun. And what else keeps
this flora alive? Water. And air, which plants inhale in one form and exhale in another, so that we humans can breathe. The whole process is more complex than I write, but I am sure I have said enough for you to begin to understand the interdependency between the living and nonliving elements in the ecosystem.
You can see now, that when you come to Rivera Cuale and are delighted by the gardens, the animal life and the river, that there is really so much more going on beneath the surface. And from this, we gain a newfound respect for the ecosystem that we have the privilege of being custodian to.
Article by Leanne Smith
I welcome your questions and comments!
Sept-Oct Promotion: Live in PV, Hassle Free
We’re sorry, this promotion is no longer valid. If you are looking for current pricing, availability, or the latest promotions, please be sure to contact us at info@riveracuale.com.
Toll free from USA and Canada: (888) 226-0563
From Mexico: +52 (322) 223-3770
Mes de la Patria
Our many friends that follow and enjoy our ever popular Rivera Cuale monthly newsletters may remember that last year we wrote about Mes de la Patria and the celebrations that occur in Mexico every September. This year Mexico is getting ready for an extraordinary celebration in honor not only of its 200th anniversary of Independence from Spain, but also the 100th anniversary of its Revolution.
The Mexican people take great pride in their country. And this year, everything designed to commemorate these two great dates is linked to the ideal of renewing Mexico’s identity and historic continuity. We will see spectacular celebrations, not only in Puerto Vallarta, but throughout Mexico. There are very special exhibits planned for the many national museums, as well as tracing the many historical routes that were followed by the various heroes in the fight for Independence and the later Revolution against the ruling class. Click here for more details.
Puerto Vallarta has never been shy when it comes to a party, and this year should be one of the biggest and best celebrations ever. The colorful red, white and green banners, and pictures of the many heroes are already appearing around town. The celebrations are being planned. On the evening of September 15 at 11 p.m. the President of Mexico comes out on the balcony of the Presidential Palace, Los Pinos in Mexico City, and leads ‘El Grito’, the traditional cheer “Viva Mexico, Viva Mexico, Viva Mexico!” It is no different here in Puerto Vallarta. Our Mayor stands on the steps of the Presidencia, our City Hall, and leads the huge crowd in the same uplifting ‘El Grito’. One can’t help but be swept up in the spirit and excitement!
September is also ‘el Mes del Charro’ (the month of the Mexican cowboy), but so much more. Charros and the popular Mexican event ‘Charreada’ are revered national symbols of Mexico. Many colorful events are featured to celebrate the charro, from parades to rodeos with exciting competition events.
Written by Estelle Eisen
I am a 20 year resident of Puerto Vallarta, and have been selling new condo properties here for six years. I was previously a licensed realtor in Washington, DC and Aspen, Colo. for many years. I am here to assist you in any way, and to answer any questions you may have on purchasing your new home at Rivera Cuale. Please contact me at estelle@riveracuale.com or 011-52-322-145-3727.
Healthcare in Puerto Vallarta
A huge proportion of the North American population either has arrived at or is approaching retirement age. Recently AARP named Puerto Vallarta the Number One place in the world for Americans to retire. If you missed it last month, here is the link again. There are many reasons Puerto Vallarta was chosen: proximity to US & Canada, quality of life, lower cost of living, relaxed lifestyle, and climate. But by far one of the most significant is the availability and quality of healthcare. This is a very real concern to us all as we move into our 50s, 60s and older. As a realtor speaking to potential future residents of Puerto Vallarta, I am asked over and over about the level of health care in very specific details.
As far as quality of care and level of expertise of the doctors, nurses and technicians here, just read the many letters to editors of our English newspapers, where you will find rave reviews of patient experiences. There are several first rate hospitals, all located no more than a 20 minute drive from downtown Vallarta, with easy access from Rivera Cuale, which is located in the heart of town. These hospitals feature state of the art equipment; ambulance service is staffed with professional EMTs as well.
Most amazing to visitors is that you can usually see a doctor the same day you call for an appointment, or if you need a specialist, no more than a day or two later. Most doctors here are bilingual and have done studies abroad in their specialty.
On a personal note, I recently had to experience this myself, a first in my life. I’ve always been super healthy and had never been to an emergency room nor had I been a patient in a hospital (except one quick and easy baby delivery). But it’s rainy season and things tend to get a bit slippery if not attended to on a regular basis. I hit a slippery spot on my home turf, and my feet went out. I ended up with a cleanly broken (in half) kneecap. Miraculously, I incurred no damage at all to the knee joint or cartilage.
I arrived at CMQ Premiere (our newest hospital) at 9PM to be met by Dr. Max Greig, a wonderful orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist. I was put in a private room, and at 7a.m. the next morning I was in surgery. I spent the day drowsing, with no discomfort. Whenever I pushed the call button, a nurse was there literally within 60 seconds with a smile. They could not have been kinder or more attentive. I was released that night with a large knee immobilizer brace, a titanium wired kneecap, and a bunch of staples.
I think the most significant health news today in Mexico is about a very important movement that has begun right here in Jalisco by one of our full time residents. He was previously an aide to a US Senator before moving to Puerto Vallarta, where he owns and operates a small hotel. Being familiar with the ins and outs of legislation in Congress, he formed a group about two years ago to lobby the US Congress to do a pilot study with an eye to recognizing Medicare for Seniors in Mexico (where the largest population of North American expats in the world now live. His premise is that the US government could save up to 30% of medical costs to Medicare for people using the system in Mexico. To date he has lobbied more than 100 legislators. Click here to read more about this movement.
Vallarta just hosted a very well attended Global Medical Tourism Conference. Medical tourism has become a thriving business worldwide. And no place is more accessible to North America than Mexico.
Cosmetic surgery is a very popular elective, and much less costly here, and has attracted a large number of both women and men.
Dentistry also ranks very highly in Mexico, and the cost is significantly lower than up north, also with the very latest in techniques, from implants to zirconia crowns.
I have met countless people who have come to Mexico specifically for the significant savings and quality of care for cosmetic surgery or dental work, which are so much more affordable; for most people, these procedures are not covered by their medical insurance in Canada and the US.
Speaking of medical insurance, there are many specific policies for expats living abroad, and in many cases, a one year policy can cost what one might pay monthly up north for coverage. And reasonable deductibles, as well as endless options are available.
High quality healthcare in Puerto Vallarta is here to stay, as baby boomers age and continue to attract the best health practitioners to the area. That’s a major factor to add to the growing list of positive reasons to make a move to Puerto Vallarta for a great quality of life. On top of that, Rivera Cuale offers some of the finest and most convenient living conditions within the city and its great location encourages a healthful lifestyle.
Written by Estelle Eisen
I am a 20 year resident of Puerto Vallarta, and have been selling new condo properties here for six years. I was previously a licensed realtor in Washington, DC and Aspen, Colo. for many years. I am here to assist you in any way, and to answer any questions you may have on purchasing your new home at Rivera Cuale. Please contact me at estelle@riveracuale.com or 011-52-322-145-3727.
2010-2011 Real Estate Trends
We understand that the decision to make an investment in real estate in Puerto Vallarta involves much thought and consideration, especially when you are trying to make your decision from afar and feel a little out of touch with what is happening in the real estate market here. That’s why we wanted to take a moment to highlight some of the trends Puerto Vallarta real estate is seeing for 2010-2011, and how they relate to Rivera Cuale.
Most importantly is that it seems the worst is behind us, and 2010 will be seen as the turning point for the Puerto Vallarta real estate market. We at Rivera Cuale would definitely agree, as evidenced by our strong sales over a period of a few months this past high season. We are now over 60% sold.
While it is still a buyer’s market and people are taking their time in making their purchase decisions to pre-empt economic uncertainty, with the market now in its recovery stage, the switch from buyer’s to seller’s market could occur very fast, and those who had waited too long will find they have missed out on the best selection and pricing.
Also, while the recent real estate market has been more resale-driven than developer-driven due to buyers’ hesitation to invest in something unfinished, we can say, that does not apply to Rivera Cuale. With Phase One and its amenities already complete, you know exactly what you are buying, and many have already come before you to buy and now reside in Rivera Cuale. On top of that, with our condo regime in place, we have already transferred title to many of our owners, and could do the same for you. Now that is peace of mind! And don’t forget, while we do offer luxury, it is very affordably priced!
Another trend in the market is that buyers are turning to mortgages more and more often to finance their new homes in Mexico. Several of our owners have already gone this route, and the brokers and banks they are dealing with are experienced professionals. If you are concerned about borrowing against the equity in your US or Canada property, did you know that you can obtain US-based financing by using your new, Mexican property as collateral?
Now here is one of the trends nearest and dearest to our hearts – that of being closer to community. Whereas previously buyers were looking for more isolated property that gave a feeling of exclusivity, lately they have been looking for homes that allow them to be part of the community, with opportunities to get involved socially and to be close to the people. Rivera Cuale does its part in being a contributing member of the community, and so do some of our owners, who volunteer in various not-for-profit endeavours. Rivera Cuale is located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, close to community, and close to the action. Not coincidentally, this is the area that has been seeing the greatest percentage of sales in the overall Vallarta/Riviera Nayarit region!
To really get the full picture of how the market is looking, you may wish to read MLS Vallarta’s comprehensive review of the 2010-2011 real estate trends by clicking here.
Article by Leanne Smith
I welcome your questions and comments!
Financing Your Home at Rivera Cuale: Owner Story #1
In previous newsletters, we brought you up to date with the latest developments in financing in Mexico. Until just a very few years ago, most property purchases were cash transactions. Happily, this has changed; banks in Mexico and in the U.S. have now made mortgages available for both Nationals and Foreign buyers.
With many options in place, it is very easy now to obtain financing, and the process goes quite smoothly. The professional sales agents at Rivera Cuale will assist you every step of the way to ensure you get the best condo for your lifestyle, and to help guide you through the financing process.
Here is an actual example from one of our owners who chose to work with a qualified mortgage broker in Mexico to obtain US-based financing for the purchase of his new condo in Rivera Cuale.
This owner purchased a condo for $462,000. His mortgage, based on 75% loan to value, is $346,500. Interest rates on a 30 year mortgage start at 6¾%. The monthly payments on this loan are $2247, principal and interest.
It is possible to obtain a lower interest rate either with more money down and/or a shorter loan term.
It is important to mention that for US buyers, interest payments are deductible from US taxes. A Canadian tax deduction does not apply to Canadian buyers at this time.
This owner noted that the mortgage broker was very helpful in the document collection process, requesting, assembling and distributing the pertinent information in a check-list fashion which made the whole process relatively simple. Examples of documents he needed to scan and provide were his and his beneficiary’s passports and driver’s licenses, property tax statements, tax returns, and bank and investment statements. The ability to digitally gather and transmit everything really simplified the task.
Also, thanks to electronic banking, this owner and most other buyers find it effortless to set up automatic monthly payments from their US or Canadian account to make their monthly mortgage payments.
The name of the game in today’s market is financing: holding on to more of your cash and leveraging the difference by obtaining a mortgage loan.
Prepared by Estelle Eisen, with credit to one of our very helpful owners
I am a 20 year resident of Puerto Vallarta, and have been selling new condo properties here for six years. I was previously a licensed realtor in Washington, DC and Aspen, Colo. for many years. I am here to assist you in any way, and to answer any questions you may have on purchasing your new home at Rivera Cuale. Please contact me at estelle@riveracuale.com or 011-52-322-145-3727.
The Word Is Out: Rivera Cuale in Puerto Vallarta is Luxury at a Reasonable Price
In 2008 and 2009, we sold the bulk of our units in Phase One. As such, Rivera Cuale was the top selling new construction project in all of Puerto Vallarta, and we anticipate near sell out numbers during the anticipated high season. There are now only 14 units remaining!
Our limited edition units are as follows:
– Unit 201 is our 3+3+den model unit. Your purchase includes the featured upgrades, and the furniture.
– Unit 103 features two master suites, a private terrace dipping pool, double the river frontage to most other units, and direct access to the swimming pool.
– Unit 202 is a value favorite because it is the most economical three bedroom at only $364,000.
– The Penthouse offers nearly 4,000 square feet of luxury and ocean views.
– The 1+1 ½ units, with interior laundry, start at only $183,000, and there are only two units left.
The remaining eight units consist of two and three bedroom units.
Rivera Cuale offers one of the last opportunities to own riverfront property in all of Puerto Vallarta. This unique location is just walking distance to downtown’s finest restaurants, art galleries, and the beach. Rivera Cuale is luxury, at a reasonable price. In fact, most of our top quality finishes are standard items, such as:
– Marble floors throughout
– European styled PVC window frames
– Granite kitchen countertops
– Semi-split air conditioning system
– Full closets with built-in cabinetry
– Tropical woodworking suited to the environment
– Oversized terraces in two and three bedroom units
– Direct entry from elevator into two and three bedroom units
Rivera Cuale also offers the following features and services:
– Pet friendly
– No rental restrictions
– 24-hour security
– On-site property management
– Stunning views of the Cuale River, Bay of Banderas, majestic mountains, and town
– And much more…come see for yourself!
I am a licensed real estate broker from California with over ten years of personal investment experience throughout the United States, the southern coast of Spain, and Puerto Vallarta. I encourage you to schedule an appointment with me to see for yourself why Rivera Cuale would make an excellent addition to your real estate portfolio.
deanna@riveracuale.com
044 322 118 43 90 (local cell)
(322) 223 37 70 (local office)
(888) 226-0563 (toll free from USA/Canada)
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