ADIP April 2008 by ADIP

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April 2008 / 57

M E X I C O

A RT H I S TO RY F O O D R E A L E S T A T E ENTERTAINMENTSPORTS MUSEUMSGALLERIES TRAVELARCHITECTURE DESIGNBUSINESS E C O N O M Y R E A L E S TAT E L I S T I N G S R E A L E S TAT E N E W S R E A L E S TAT E L AW R E A L E S TAT E F I N A N C E BOOKSCOMMUNITY C U LT U R E P E O P L E SHOPPINGSOCIALEVENTS RESOURCESCLASSIFIEDS

M E X I C O

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paradise another day in

EDITOR - PUBLISHER

COLUMNISTS - CONTRIBUTORS

Contributors: Douglas Beach Epitacio John Glaab Michel Janicot Ed Kunze Juliet Lambert Ana Lilia Lozano Melissa Mayes Carlos Padilla David Roman Porcayo Nancy Seeley Maura Taylor Luis Treviño

DESIGN

Advertising Agency jld agenciajld@hotmail.com jorge@adip.info Office: Tel. (755) 554-6525 Cel. (755)104-5057 WEB DESIGN & HOSTING Zihrena Sistems La Ropa, Zihuatanejo webmaster@zihua-ixtapa.com (755) 554-0719 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES (755) 554-6525 space is limited, deadline for materials and payments is the 1st of the month previous publicidad@adip.info

elcome to Another Day in Paradise and welcome to our first ever Eco issue.

Everyone is going green, it seems protecting the environment has finally caught on. Two summers ago in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, I attended a series of seminars in Houston, Texas, on global warming and especially its effects on water, this climate crisis, as they call it. The same summer I attended Al Gore’s Inconvenient Truth presentation, where he received several ovations from a standing room only crowd, and everyone felt like an army on the march, invigorated with purpose. I was an eager audience as well. One of my shortlived summer jobs in high school (let’s just say quite a few years ago) was as a canvasser, a door-to-door grass roots fund raiser for clean water initiatives. It was a different world back then, a lot of people shut their doors in my face, not everyone was nice, few people were interested. My, how things have changed. Or have they? It still seems the natural inclination is to ignore, to stretch our brains into all sorts of creative reasonings as to why it’s really not so bad. But what’s the point to that? It’s like debating the finer points of staying healthy while smoking two packs a day… Instead of inconvenient truth maybe he should have called it, the really actually kinda obvious truth. Anyone who has been alive a few years has seen the climate changes of the last generation and it’s pretty pointless to pretend you don’t notice. The question then becomes just how far are you willing to go to change, alter or address that fact. I read an article recently which proposed that the most ecologically sound alternative fuel vehicle was a donkey cart. That’s just ridiculous and only giving people another

Painting by Armenta Rodriguez

Catherine Krantz info@adip.info

excuse to throw up their hands in exasperation instead of looking for actually viable answers. It’s unreasonable (and a few other adjectives to boot) to think people would want to go backwards, to diminish the quality of their lives, to lose even one single benefit of progress and evolution, even if it meant saving the entire human race. I mean, if we have to go back to donkey carts what’s the point of clean air, we’d become a less advanced species altogether. Lucky for us, there are brighter, bolder minds at work, looking for real and realistic solutions to how the modern world can continue to flourish while co-existing with nature, and we hope Zihuatanejo and its stunning natural beauty can benefit. Here at ADIP we don’t propose to have all the answers or even all the questions…but as we come to the close of our 2007-2008 season, we hope our first ever Eco Issue inspires you to start thinking a little greener, a little cleaner, and about all the creative ways to get there. Until next time,

SALES OFFICE Juan N. Alvarez #34 Col. Centro, Zihuatanejo, Gro SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES Check out our web page for more info: www.adip.info WE WELCOME ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPH SUBMISSIONS info@adip.info FOR GUIDELINES

on the cover: COCONUTS Photo by Epitacio

www.adip.info

April 2008 / 57

8 History

What a difference a decade makes 12 Food

Organic and local products 14 Books

26 Eco Technology Vehizero Hybrid Vehicles 32 Eco Solutions Bring your own bag Conservation Tips

Mother Nature, My Nature

36 Classifieds

16 Sports

Real Estate Guide

Conservation in Sportfishing

40 Home & Garden

18 Community

Ecological and Sustainable Architecture

Get Involved: Community Project Directory

43 Real Estate Law

20 Community Sea Turtles of Mexico, Campamento Aeropuerto Turtle Sanctuary

44 Real Estate News

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Real Estate Fair

22 Z-Scene

47 Real Estate Listings

Reclaimed federal zone land

For Sale, For Rent

ADiP 8

By Nancy Seeley

leepy little Mexican fishing villages don’t change much in merely a decade, do they?

In much of the world, the advent of the 21st century has ushered in heightened concern about issues like global warming, damage to the ecosystem, recycling, energy conservation and biofuels. But all that doesn’t really affect us here in paradise, where things are largely the same as they always were, right? Think again if you thought that was so, amigos.

Without nearby Ixtapa only a mountain away, some of these changes might have been slower in coming, but the need for sister communities both depending greatly on tourism dollars to compete effectively in the 21st century has spearheaded a fairly long list. One of the social events of the summer of 2000 was the opening of Comercial Mexicana in Zihua. Never before did we have a bona fide supermarket, much less one that also stocked everything from refrigerators and mattresses to underwear and exercise equipment. People flocked to the store to marvel at the inventory, see friends, and enjoy free air conditioning in the sweltering summer heat and humidity. The one-stop shopping concept was brand new. In the past, just getting the ingredients for a dinner party could take hours of scavenging. A few years later, Bodega Aurrera opened its doors, and our opportunities doubled.

If you’re visiting Zihuatanejo for the first time, things may seem a lot more rustic and low key than back home, but to those of us who have lived here for awhile, the differences between then and now are pretty impressive indeed.

Calle Cuauhtemoc, 1972 Playa la Ropa, 1998.

Here’s another food-related highlight, made ever so much easier since the supermarket concept made its debut: American cuts of beef. Until seven or eight years ago, a T-bone steak might have had the basic shape of what you got up north, but it would have been about an eighth of ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Raciel Gaffare

RESTAURANT VILLA DE LA SELVA Paseo de l a Roca 755 553 3151 monday through saturday 7 to11 PM

Emilia Castillo Gigi Mizrahi

promoting the finest: the art of jewelry paintings & sculptures one-of-a-kind objects

The “back road” between Ixtapa and Zihua, called the Majahua route, was given a major facelift, and now it’s become the personal

Supermarkets, street lights and a real foot bridge are all signs of change in Zihuatanejo, Photos by Epitacio.

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The roads themselves were transformed. Paving became much more prevalent in outlying neighborhoods, downtown streets were redone, and the highways to Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo saw major improvements. Mexican tourists from Michoacan and Mexico City responded in droves to the shortened driving times, and license plates from places like San Luis Potosi, Guanajuato and Nayarit became more common. More U.S. and Canadian plates joined the fray as well, often making parking a nightmare.

LA RT

More tourists came, the population of our two cities swelled to take care of their needs, and traffic got worse, so early this century, the very first stoplights made an appearance in Zihuatanejo. For the first month the lights just flashed constantly, getting drivers used to their presence before the green/red/yellow pattern became operational. It was comical standing on the sidewalk watching drivers stop at intersections formerly controlled only by traffic cops, completely befuddled as to whom was supposed to do what when.

www.galart.net

Ixtapa Chain stores started making an appearance. “Melody” (clothing) and “Telas Parisina” (fabrics) have been here several years, while “Coppel” (appliances and electronics) joined the growing number just last year. Zihua has yet to welcome a fast food franchise – although there are several KFC wannabes, but Domino’s Pizza is on the main drag in Ixtapa, joined by Subway a few years ago. Now we even have that north-of-the-border favorite, dollar stores, to say nothing of a whole slew of discount and generic pharmacies.

galart@prodigy.net.mx

And ten years ago you couldn’t get a copy of this magazine, what a difference a decade makes.

Not wanting to lose customers, the vendors in the “mercado” started putting up signs advertising the prices of their produce, fish and meats, and crushed ice became a staple to keep the fresh fish cold – with the added advantage of cutting down the fly population.

Zihuatanejo

an inch thick. Then there’s Oreo cookies, Swiss and cheddar cheese, canned sauerkraut,loads of diet soda, Johnsonville brats…all being greedily grabbed by ex-pats hungry for tastes long missed as well as dietarily timid vacationers and restaurants eager to please foreign palates.

Playa La Ropa, 1996

“autopista” (superhighway) for at least a hundred drivers daily. Formerly one of my favorite walking routes, this hike now attracts me only when I’m feeling particularly daring. An era ended when the rickety wooden bridge connecting the Almacen area of Zihua to the Paseo del Pescador and “muelle” (pier) area was replaced with a larger, safer, but ohso-much-less-charming structure. Gone are the days people would bet about who would pony up the funds to mend the woebegone thing before it collapsed completely. There are many more plane flights serving us these days, many more cruise ships stopping in Zihua Bay during high season, many more all-inclusive hotels lining the beach in Ixtapa, more cab companies offering rides, and greatly expanded opportunities for bus travel to other parts of Mexico. Locally, the combis that charged only a couple of pesos for a trip from Zihua to Ixtapa in the mid-‘90s now cost seven pesos, still not a bad deal. Large hotel, vacation club and condo chains have transformed the look of our beaches,

while boutique hotels offer vacationers a growing choice of getaway opportunities. Just keeping track of name changes in the old standbys can be a rather daunting task. For instance, the Park Royal on the beach in Ixtapa was formerly the Radisson…and before that the Double Tree…and even before that, the Omni. We have several more Pemex gas stations, scads of new Internet cafes, lots more locals who speak very good English, a clutch of new art galleries, and oodles of websites which make finding information about the area as close as a click away. You can use charge cards at more businesses, and you can even pay bills via the Internet if the thought of standing in line at the phone and electric companies doesn’t turn your crank. Cell phones have become standard equipment, so that MoviStar and Telcel outlets have proliferated. There’s a dynamite ciclopista (bike path) joining Zihua and Ixtapa which didn’t exist in the mid‘90s, and earlier this year it was extended almost a mile beyond Playa Linda on Ixtapa’s

north end. The modern Flamingo movie theater in Ixtapa opened for business before the end of last century, complete with youthful employees who have been known to prod you with a stick if you park your feet on top of an empty seat in front of you. Canadian and American dollars go further than they did a decade ago, thanks to the ever-changing rate of the peso, and we can buy things using new plastic 20 and 50 peso bills…as well as that REALLY helpful new 1,000-peso bill. Some things, though, remain the same: Getting change is still a big problem, even at places like Comercial. Lines are still ominously long at the bank around the 15th and the 30th of the month. There’s still no road that goes all the way to Las Gatas Beach. (Let’s hope that’s still the case in another 10 years!) The sewers still overflow after heavy rainfalls, and el centro still smells rather ripe during the dog days of summer. The Sotavento Hotel is still one of the most prominent landmarks along the Zihua oceanfront, we still drink our water from 19liter garrafons and you can still buy a dazzling array of jewelry, songs, clothing, and pottery from personable vendors strolling the beaches in colorful clothing day after day. And then, of course, there’s the charming clash of old meeting new. One of my all-time favorite sights in Zihua during the last decade is this: A stooped-over old man leading his burro, laden with sticks of wood, along a residential street while talking animatedly on his cell phone. Viva Mexico!!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Once upon a time, Nancy Seeley lived a conventional lifestyle in the U.S.  Then, 11 years ago, she quit her secure government job and fled to Mexico to escape the rigours of yet another Wisconsin winter.  Three years later, she met the man of her dreams, Canadian Nick Dubeski, under a palm tree on the beach in Zihuatanejo.  The two of them have lived happily ever after in a somewhat vagabond fashion, traveling as much as possible and gathering information to write stories for this magazine.

ADiP 12

In today’s world, the voice of the consumer often speaks louder than that of the voter, so it is important to be mindful of where our money is spent. Industrial, non-organic agriculture provides for 98% of food sales worldwide and utilizes over 400 different pesticides and fertilizers. Agricultural chemicals are used to fight off insects and plant diseases and are also used to speed up the growing process. Nonorganic produce often looks more appealing with bigger and better-looking products, but beyond aesthetics lie unattractive side effects.

methods of farming that emphasize energy conservation, healthy soil and environmental quality. On average, organic farms are also smaller than their agro-industrial counterparts, so purchasing organic food often supports small farmers. The result is food products that may not look “perfect,” but taste better, are more nutritious and healthier for humans and the planet. Unfortunately, due to the lack of government subsidies and the slow speed of natural growing cycles, organic food is often more expensive and in a “developing” country like Mexico, it can often be harder to find. Domestic demand for organic food is still small which means 98% of all Mexico-grown organic food is exported. However, with a growing middle-class, demand is growing and some reports say that organic farming is growing at a rate of 45% a year. Coffee is Mexico’s largest organic export with vanilla and corn coming in second and third. Although the Mexican government has begun to give money to farmers to help with the expensive switch to organic methods, not many have jumped on board.

Studies have shown that the use of chemicals to speed up the growth of plants often depletes the soil of important nutrients lowering nutritional values of the produce. Chemicals used in the soil and sprayed directly on the plants have also been shown to contaminate water systems as rains wash them away or they are absorbed into the ground. It is also believes that human exposure to pesticides and fertilizers, either during farming or by eating chemically grown food can cause illness and even cancer. Organic food is food produced without the use of chemicals. Organic farmers employ traditional

Becoming an organically certified farm can take up to five years to assure all chemical practices and residues have subsided. It can also take just as long for an organic venture to become profitable. In Mexico, culturally speaking, five years can be too long of a time to plan for in advance. In an already stressed growing environment like the one surrounding Zihuatanejo and in a sometimes equally stressed economical environment, becoming an organic farmer makes survival virtually impossible. So, if we want to be healthy world-citizens while living in Zihuatanejo, what options do we have?

ith concerns for the state of the environment growing worldwide, people often wonder what they can do as individuals to help lessen their own ecological impact. Simple actions like driving less, using energy-saving appliances or recycling are obvious things people can do to be more environmentally friendly, but something as basic as different eating habits can also benefit an ailing environment. Buying organic food and therefore supporting organic farmers is an easy and wonderful way to become more of an environmentally conscious citizen.

Big grocery store chains like Comercial Mexicana or Bodega Aurrera may be the only places to find the 2 percent of Mexican organic produce that is not exported. Commerical Mexicana offers a line of Mexican organic products called, Aires de Campo. They represent organic growers from all across Mexico and offer a wide variety of products from organic coconut oil, to dairy, lettuce, fruits and juices, coffees, teas, chocolate, bread, honey, soy beans, rice, corn and even ice cream. One organic product that is produced locally is organic coffee, produced by the Café Zihuatlan Growers Coop, which can be found at Café Zihuatanejo on the pedestrian walk, Hermenegildo Galeana, between Ejido and Nicolas Bravo streets, in central Zihuatanejo. When buying organic is not possible, buying local produce is often seen as a good alternative. Locally grown produce is usually fresher and does not have as much of an adverse effect on the environment because it doesn’t need to be shipped long distances. Some examples of products that are produced and available locally but not necessarily organic are: mangoes, jamaica, tamarindo, watermelon, and coconuts. Enjoy a trip to one of Zihuatanejo’s fresh produce markets and see what’s available. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Melissa Mayes has been living in and traveling around Mexico for about four years, teaching English, writing and becoming a connoisseur of all things Mexican. She currently lives in Guanajuato, Guanajuato and is writing a memoir about her travels hoping to inspire young women to explore the world. ADDITIONAL SOURCES: www.wikipedia.com, www.whyorganic.org, www.newfarm. org, www.organicsa.net, www.airesdecampo.com

Coconuts Coconuts are an especially abundant local product and are considered a functional food, which means they provide health benefits beyond just the nutritional benefit. Coconut is highly nutritious and is rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Coconut oil is considered the healthiest oil on earth and many varied health benefits have been attributed to it. Drinking coconut water is one of the easiest ways to get the benefit of coconuts and it a refreshing and tasty drink. Coconuts can be purchased at most area restaurants and from vendors on the street. They will be chopped open with a machete and the coconut water poured out into a bag or a glass with ice, you can also have them scoop out the meat to eat. Coconuts not only provide meat, juice, milk and oil for food and medicine but coconuts and coconut palms also provide fiber, fronds and wood for construction, leading Pacific Islanders to call the coconut palm, The Tree of Life.

ADiP 14

A new book by Owen Lee Book Review by Douglas Beach

he image on the cover of Owen Lee’s new book, a drawing of early man—let’s call him Homo erectus—is removing a mask from his face that is a caricature of the author. What are readers to make of this? Mother Nature, My Nature is a wide departure from the author’s previous books, a novel, several skin diving manuals, tourist guides, and just last year, an autobiography. Owen Lee is the American expatriate proprietor of Las Gatas Beach Club. It follows that most of his earlier works were of a tropical bent featuring turquoise waters, coco palms, and white sand beaches. This new book is very different—the clash of science, religion, and Mother Nature.

Owen Lee at a recent booksigning at Coconuts Restaurant

One might ask what sparks Lee’s interest in these topics, and what credentials qualify him to write about these subjects. For starters, the back cover copy states,“Owen Lee was the first American to join the crew of Captain Jacques Yves Cousteau aboard his famous research ship, the Calypso, first as an underwater cameraman, then as a traveling lecture spokesman promoting Cousteau’s thoughts about nature in over 300 cities.”

Captain Cousteau passed away in 1997. His legacy includes 120 television documentaries and 50 books. This prolific outpouring earned Cousteau a reputation as one of the early pioneers in bringing green issues to public attention, and Lee rubbed elbows with the great man for nearly a decade. In My Mother, My Nature, Lee tells readers of dinner conversations aboard Cousteau’s famous ship that centered on nature’s rebellion against humankind’s gathering population outburst and other ecological blunders. Said Cousteau; “Man’s road into the future leads smack into a wall . . . Until we learn to live in harmony with our ecosystem, survival of life as we know it is doomed. I give it fifty, perhaps a hundred years.” The captain’s statement got Lee to thinking about man’s disregard for Mother Nature and he never stopped thinking about it. Some years later the Calypso sailed into Zihuatanejo bay and Lee traded the sailing life for a nature preserve at Playa Las Gatas. To put a proper foundation beneath his argument that the world is on the cusp of disastrous overcrowding, depletion of natural

resources, and rapid environmental destruction, Lee hurtles the reader through the Big Bang theory, the ambling rise of hunter-gatherer Homo erectus, and the raw, gene driven sex habits of humankind. Along the way, his book argues that the planet is indeed warming, and the hole in the ozone layer is ever widening. The author backs up his pronouncements with research from an impressive bibliography that includes Al Gore’s Earth in Balance, Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring, Willis Harman’s Global Mind Change, and Carl Sagan’s Cosmos. In a particularly bold stroke, Lee encourages the devout to set aside their myriad gods in exchange for proven scientific facts and belief in Mother Nature. Writes Lee, “Floating on the cherished beliefs of their forefathers, religious beliefs have survived on faith alone. But their survival has come at a heavy price...” The author infers that a worldwide commitment to living within the laws of Mother Nature is the single path that might avoid the bedlam ahead. “Throughout her annual migrations around the sun, Mother Earth blindly follows a strict code of quantum physics and a precise time schedule. She does not know if there is life aboard and cares less. She is on her own mission.”

With regard to the book cover, if you guessed that the author believes himself a descendent of Homo erectus rather than Adam and Eve, you are correct. Random House and Fawcett, publishers of most of Lee’s earlier books, provided Lee with proofreading services. This book, published by Seahorse Productions, contains syntax errors that Lee says he is correcting in the upcoming second printing, though these faults in no way detract from the powerful message of Owen Lee’s magnum opus. Mother Nature, My Nature is available at Embarcadero near the Playa Municipal basketball court, and at El Rebusque (book store) on Calle las Palapas near the intersection of Calle Cocos downtown. An autographed book may be ordered direct from Owen Lee via e-mail owenzih@yahoo.com or cell phone 044 755 102 7111 About the Author: Douglas Beach is a writer living in Zihuatanejo.

ADiP 16

By Ed Kunze

ihuatanejo is one of the top ranked sportfishing destinations in the world. Sport fishermen know all about the dangers of over-fishing, they are usually the most conservation-minded of all fishermen. Here in Zihuatanejo, Catch and Release, especially of sailfish, has been slowly taking hold over the last decade and we encourage the practice of it to all visiting sport fishermen. Tell your captain that’s what you expect and insist upon it.That way you can continue to fish our blue waters for many years to come. We have featured many articles on catch (and tag) and release in ADIP over the years, for more information on the practice and the IGFA presence in IxtapaZihuatanejo check our archives on the website: www.adip.info. One thing we rarely talk about is the controversial but very real problem of long lines, which can kill more fish than an entire season of sportfishing. Ed Kunze is Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo’s IGFA representative.—editor’s note. We are now in a very difficult period for the fishing community on the West Coast of Mexico, and in fact, all of Mexico. It may actually develop into a type of civil war, which will pit family members against family members. Among the sport fishing captains, there is a new awareness as to the need to conserve, because they now understand that resources are limited. But, not all fishermen in Mexico feel the same way: Or they are taking an, “I better get it now, before somebody else gets it,” attitude. A friend once told me a story that he and another Captain came across an illegal simbra

A typical long line set up run out of a panga

(long line); they moved in to start cutting the line to pieces, but then the Captain recognized the panga which had laid the simbra, and said, “We can’t cut it, it is my cousin’s.” And because of that, they actually had to leave the killing device and could not do anything about it. A simbra (long line) is a length of nylon chord, with a hook every 60 feet or so. It is very similar to the trot lines used by the good ol’ boys in the South. A 100-foot boat can lay out as much as 30 miles of long line for each set up. They generally work areas 100 or miles or more off shore. A panga long line generally runs about three to four miles, and fish the inshore areas. A long line is an indiscriminate killer. They kill anything which takes the baited hook, including birds, sea turtles, and billfish. Plus, the Mexican Government legally allows inshore long line permits for sharks, in areas which sharks do not exist in a large enough

A Sea Turtle trapped in a gill net

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quantity to substantiate commercial interests. So, the main target is sailfish for these “legal” simbras. It does not matter that the law states they are not allowed to sell billfish commercially, because without sufficient resources for the Mexican Government, the law is not enforced. And, the people who partake in these illegal activities are well aware of that fact. While fly fishing with a client at Pto. Vicente Gro., my captain and I came across a sea turtle trapped in a gill net made for small sharks, tuna, and dorado. (Note the larger sized mesh across the turtle’s back in the photo.) A large cargo ship must have cut it up and set several tangled pieces afloat, because we found two nets, and two turtles within an hour of each other. We cut them both free, and got the nets back to a dumpster. Gill nets and long lines are floating indiscriminate killers. Just this last year I had talked with a fisherman who had come to Zihuatanejo to fish, because he had given up on the area around Manzanillo. He tried to fish there for two days, but there were so many long lines, they could not get near any of the productive areas. In one instance they even got a long line wrapped in

the propellers of the boat he was on. Instead of cutting the line, the captain took care, and carefully unwound it. He said it was his brother-in-law’s. The top photo shows a typical long line set up run out of a panga. This particular long line is legally permitted in Mexico because it specifically targets sharks. The hooks are attached to the longer nylon leaders by a short stainless steel leader. Shark long lines are anchored to the bottom and have very little chance of catching pelagic species (however, sea turtles can get caught in them). The illegal long lines used for sailfish use a long leader of heavy monofilament, have more hooks, and are floated near the surface. A long line run off a panga averages between 20 and 30 sailfish a day. All of those fish are dead before they are even put in the boat. And, there are numerous pangeros with long lines on the West Coast of Mexico. We do not need to be rocket scientists to understand the conclusions of this math problem.

the importance of the visiting fishermen and the money they spend. They have enacted strict laws and enforcement, using only circle hooks and the releasing of all billfish. Plus, the migratory species being killed in Mexican waters, are not just Mexico’s – they belong to all of the Latin American countries along the migration route. Hopefully, the Mexican long line fishermen will wake up to reality, before being reprimanded by their Central American neighbors. Ed Kunze is Zihuatanejo’s IGFA Representative and a charter fishing boat captain. He lives in IxtapaZihuatanejo year-round and can be reached at 755-5537141 or edkunze@gmail.com For more information on Captain Ed and his boats go to www.sportfishing-ixtapa. com or www.zihuatanejo.net/seaandsand.

Like Mexico, Costa Rica and Guatemala are very dependent on tourism. They understand

ADiP 18

Community Directory Fundación Rene Ferguson A.C This Foundation was set up in memory of Rene Ferguson and its objective is to support able young women, who are suffering financial hardship, through a degree course by assisting them with the expenses of college tuition and books. Donations to the foundation are tax deductible in the United States through The Rene Ferguson Foundation. Please contact Erica Islas at La Quinta Troppo or at mexdrop@prodigy.net.mx Comisión para la Defensa de la Pesca Deportiva A.C. A group comprised of sport fishermen and sport fishing captains concerned with the conservation and protection of their natural resources. They support projects of conservation, preservation, catch and release in sport fishing, the ill effects of over fishing and education on these themes. For more information you can contact Comisión para la Defensa de la Pesca Deportiva A.C., founder and president, Capt. Ruben Lopez, at 755-108-6506, 755-554-6839, or by e-mail: ruben_lopez43@ hotmail.com The Netza Project The Netza Project is a U.S. and Mexico registered non-profit organization that works to advance literacy, education and economic opportunity for all, in particular supporting the vision and expansion of The Netzahualcoyotl School and Kindergarten for Indigenous Children in Zihuatanejo, which today educates over 400 migrant, native and street children - many of whom speak Nahuatl, Mixteco, Amusgo and Tlapaneco, and who otherwise might not be in school. The Netza Project also advocates equality and social justice through dormitory shelter, health programs, women’s micro-finance, adult literacy, scholarships, and international volunteerism by fostering respect for diversity and celebrating native culture. See www.netzaproject. org; contact Lisa Martin info@netzaproject.org; US cell 508-284-0078; Mexico cell 044 755 10 01173. Por Los Niños de Zihuatanejo, AC. A community-based, non-profit association, founded by the Zihua SailFest, to provide educational opportunities to economically disadvantaged children in Zihuatanejo. Por Los Niños supports learning and school repair projects at more than 12 under-funded primary schools and kindergartens. Contact: Lorenzo Marbut, home: 755-554-2115, cell: 755-102-4463, Lorenzo@ porlosninos.info The Rotary Club is a world-wide service organization with the purpose to help those in need. In Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo there are three groups: ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Club Rotario Ixtapa - Nuevas Generaciones New Generations Rotary Club meets at the Hotel Emporio in Ixtapa 2:30pm Wednesdays, Phone: (755) 553-0018 Club Rotario de Zihuatanejo, A.C. Zihuatanejo Rotary Club Hotel Catalina, road to Playa La Ropa, Zihuatanejo, Phone: (755) 554-9321 Club Rotario de Zihuatanejo Tercer Milenio Third Millennium Rotary Club of Zihuatanejo Hotel Riviera Beach Ixtapa Phone: (755) 554-7645 S.O.S. Bahia, A.C. Local non-profit group dedicated to the rescue and long-term preservation of the ecological integrity of the Bay of Zihuatanejo. Promotes environmental awareness, advocates the sustainable development of the bay’s surroundings, and works to stop water pollution and the destruction of wildlife habitat in and around the bay. Collects and distributes information about the issues concerning the bay and organizes periodical beach cleanups. Gladly accepts volunteer contributions and donations. www.sosbahia.org, info@sosbahia.org. SPAZ-HKP “Helene Krebs Posse” Humane Society of Zihuatanejo (Sociedad Protectora de Animales de Zihuatanejo Helene Krebs Posse) Offers sterilization clinics, free adoptions, educational out reach programs, treatment and rehabilitation for wounded, homeless or abandoned animals. Sells t-shirts and memberships to raise funds, gladly accepts donations. Located at Casa Marina, next to the basketball court facing the bay in central Zihuatanejo. Casa Marina, Paseo del Pescador #9, Col. Centro 40880 Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, México, Tel. (755) 554-2373. www.zihuatanejo.net-spaz, animales.zihua@hotmail.com Zihuafest A.C. - The Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival Now in its fifth year, the Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival brings international musicians to Zihuatanejo from all across the world. Ten days of live music in Paradise includes many genres and including two free-to-the-public concerts, one for the school children of Zihuatanejo and the other for the city of Zihuatanejo. The Festival is a registered not-for-profit association in Mexico and a percentage of festival proceeds go toward supporting Music, Art and Cultural Education in the community. Sponsors, Donors, and Volunteers always needed. www.zihuafest.info, info@zihuafest. info If you don’t see your organization listed here, please send us your mission statement and contact information to get on the list, info@adip.info.

By Michel Janicot

n October 30, 1999, a group of concerned citizens representing local organizations of ecologists, hotel and restaurant owners associations, fishermen and labor union representatives, among others, formed a grass roots movement dedicated to the preservation of the bay of Zihuatanejo, Movimiento para el rescate y Preservación de la Bahía. The group, alarmed by the steady and increasing pollution and the explosive growth of the city, changed its name to S.O.S. Bahía, a non-profit organization, whose goal is “to promote environmental awareness in the local population, advocate the sustainable development of the bay´s surroundings, stop water pollution, protect wildlife and its natural habitat in and around the bay, and stop irresponsible development projects that threaten to destroy the fragile equilibrium of the bay´s environment.” After a group of private investors, supported by the Federal Tourism development agency, planned to build a solid rock jetty that was to act as a cruise ship pier in the bay S.O.S. Bahía established public forums, a number of protest marches and spent countless hours in meetings with various municipal, state and federal government officials, and the proposed project´s developers and their lawyers. The group managed to stop construction of the wharf twice. However, the cruise ship pier proposal once again has been resurrected, this

Photo by Jorge Luis Delgado

time in complicity with the federal Secretary of Communications and Transportation (S.C.T) which has plans to build a large pier in the middle of Zihuatanejo bay which would be large enough to accommodate three cruise ships. A project S.O.S. Bahia condemns. The S.C.T. issued a hefty 234-page construction report in 2007 outlining their plans and underscoring the amount of time and money already spent proposing the pier project. It is S.O.S. Bahia’s position that the report and the project plans fail to take into account many important issues, such as environmental impact, infrastructure and real construction costs. They have once again started grass roots educational campaigning, and protests and speeches have been made. Over the past six months the community has both clashed and come together over this controversial issue with heated emotion on either side. The latest news seems to point that the city does not want a cruise ship pier inside the bay and that it will not be built. The ultimate decision, however, still rests with the Federal government and, as everyone knows, “it´s not over until the fat lady sings.” For S.O.S. Bahia it seems the fight to protect Zihuatanejo’s environment is an ongoing battle. S.O.S. Bahía offers colorful T-shirts, posters, automobile bumpers stickers, pamphlets and related ´save the bay´ literature; and gladly accepts any contribution and donations at Casa Marina, Paseo del Pescador No. 9, or contact www.sosbahia.org ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

ADiP 20

By Catherine Krantz Photos by Jorge Luis Delgado

ea Turtles are air breathing marine reptiles that have existed in our oceans for over 150 million years, since the age of the dinosaurs. It has only been in the last 100 years that their numbers have plunged. Of the estimated 100s of sea turtle species that once lived, only eight remain. Of the world’s eight remaining sea turtle species, seven are found in the waters around Mexico. Because of this dramatic loss of species diversification, all species of sea turtles are protected. Most are threatened or endangered and one species, the Kemp’s ridley, that nests almost exclusively in the Gulf of Mexico (Florida, Texas and Mexico’s coasts) is at the very brink of extinction. Here on the Pacific Coast we see the migration and nesting of three species, the Green, Olive ridley and Leatherback Sea Turtles. All three of these species nest right here in Zihuatanejo Bay and the surrounding beaches. Nesting seasons vary with the species but are usually in the summer months with the most sightings in Zihua being between June and October and lasting in less frequency until December or January. Sea Turtles, do not have teeth but modified beaks and there is a wide variance on what they eat, depending on the species. Green and Black turtles are the only species to be strictly herbivores, once they reach adulthood they live mainly on sea grass and algae. Olive ridley’s are carnivores with powerful jaws that allow them to eat clams, mussels, shrimp, fish and jelly fish. Leatherbacks have delicate jaws that restrict their diet to soft bodied animals, they live almost exclusively on jelly fish. One of the main problems faced by jelly fish eating sea turtles is the over abundance of plastic bags floating in our oceans, especially in near coastal regions. They greatly resemble jelly fish and swallowing plastic bags is a large cause of death to mature sea turtles. Sea Turtle anatomy is perfectly suited to life in the ocean. They hear well at low frequencies underwater through eardrums covered by skin. They have poor vision out of water but underwater their vision is greatly improved and their sense of smell is excellent.With their ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

Campamento Aeropuerto

large flippers and streamlined bodies they are strong swimmers but are awkward out of water. The females are the only ones who nest, the males never return to land after their first scramble toward the sea at birth. The female sea turtle migrates back to the very beach she was born on to lay her eggs, sometimes covering thousands of miles and returning to the exact same spot each time she nests, sometimes within a 100 yards of her previous nest. Incubation takes between 40 and 60 days with the baby, barely palmsized, turtles heading straight for the water after hatching. Little is known about the day to day activities of such small turtles and not much more is known about the adults. With strong currents in the open ocean to contend with and only modest vision, how sea turtles regularly manage to cover thousands of miles each year to return to the beach they were born on, is still one of the great mysteries of science. Researchers have theorized that they are able to detect both the angle and intensity of the earth’s magnetic field enabling them to determine a near latitude and longitude precision. Early experiments prove sea turtles can detect magnetic fields but whether they use this for navigation has yet to be proven. Tagging efforts and satellite tracking devices have answered some of these questions but much remains to be learned from one of the earth’s oldest living creatures.

hatching, but the daily care and feeding of the baby turtles after they hatch to get them ready for release.

By Jorge Luis Delgado

ea turtles are a protected species in Mexico but they are still in danger. Although illegal, the poaching of turtle eggs to sell as food is still practiced along Mexico’s coasts. To protect the eggs they are dug up and relocated to sanctuaries so that they can hatch and be released into the ocean. Many places in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area host turtle release programs, where the baby sea turtles are taken from their holding tanks and placed onto the sand so they can walk toward the ocean. Many of the visitors who enjoy this activity may not know about the difficult tasks that lead up it. Not just the late-night collecting of the eggs and relocating them to the safe sanctuaries for

Campamento Aeropuerto

Mr. Emeterio Garcia Cisneros is a volunteer at the sea turtle sanctuary, Campamento Aeropuerto, located on Playa Blanca near the International Airport, in the property of the Rendón Terrazas family. Mr. Garcia has been collecting and protecting turtle eggs for 10 years, he is a volunteer who does it only for his love of the sea turtles, and the sanctuary receives little support. His mornings begin at 3:00 a.m. when he walks to beach to locate the nests. If he finds nests, he collects the eggs and safely transfers them to the camp. The eggs are then re-buried in the sand in a safe place. But just getting them to a safe place does not guarantee that all the turtles will be born, often the climate conditions and other circumstances will affect the eggs. After this all there is to do is wait and watch the nests. Depending on the species the turtles can take from a month and a half to two months to hatch. After hatching the turtles are kept for about 15 days in large holding containers to give them a better chance of survival. During this time they must be taken care of, fed and kept in clean sea water. The water must be changed every day and they are fed fresh fish every day to get them ready to be released. The sea turtle sanctuary, Campamento Aeropuerto, releases over 12,000 turtles per year. And all work is done by volunteers, it involves daily efforts and they receive no financial assistance from the authorities. The Foundation Artificial Reefs Pure Life A.C (Fundacion Arrecifes Artificiales Pura Vida A. C.) and its species protection program supports these volunteers so that they continue protecting Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo’s sea turtle species for many more years. More information on their program for Protection of Species and how you can help, Contact: jorge@adip.info or visit: www.arrecifespuravida.org

Help us protect the turtles

ADiP 22

On the red carpet Lois Brown’s Oscar Party 2008 1

1. Eloisa & Nick 2. Paula & Malcom 3. Judy & James 4. Dan & Cindee 5. Catherine 6. Annie & Karl 7. Bill

Judith Whitehead’s dance party (without Judith)

1. Grace, Lynn, Leonora, Catherine, Beverly 2. Elder & Marta 3. Cindee & Dan

The president of Lithuania visits Zihuatanejo: Paul & Pam Hakim, Al & Jolita Birutis, Juli & Joel Zahler, Presidet of Lithuania Valdus Adamkus and wife, Alma, Grace Relfe

Yuriana`s birthday party

1. Jorge Luis Delgado and Yuriana Hernandez 2. Nabor Cardenas, Carla and Zenaida Bustos 3. Efren Suazo, Mariana Oregon,Yuriana Hernandez, Paloma Sanchez and Josue de La Cruz 4. Jorge Rendon and Olga Orihuela 5. Lety, Irma,Yuriana and Areli Hernandez

3 Niley Painting Exhibition - Coconuts 1. Artist niley 2. Mary & Linda 3. Coconuts’ Debbie Mione and artist niley 4. Penny & Margaret 5. Paul & Dawn 6. Margaret & Betty

La Sirena Gorda, (Fat Mermaid) Painting exhibition /auction La Sirena Gorda’s Luis Muñoz, (R) Joe Eskauriatza, Narayana Montufar, Artist Rubi Quintana, MC Victor Bashbush

Catherine Krantz, Julio Garcia, Teresa Prater at Guitarfest 2008

The golfing gang at Villa de La Roca: Tom, Bob, Barry, Don, Lee, Curtis, Ken

ADiP 26

rom a small manufacturing plant in Mexico City, Sean O’Hea is changing the climate one truck at a time. Vehizero is Mexico’s first hybrid automobile company, and it is poised to revolutionize the way Mexico looks at emerging environmental technologies. The name comes from ‘zero-emission vehicles,’ which combine a primary electrical battery with a standard fuel engine back-up system. Trained as a chemical engineer, Sean O’Hea has spent the last ten years developing improved electrical batteries and environmentally friendly automotive systems. “When I was in

By Juliet Lambert

my twenties, I looked around and saw that we (Mexico City) needed to do something about our most pressing problem: air pollution. We were letting energy go to waste out our tailpipes and then go on to pollute the atmosphere. I knew there was a better way to make cars.” In 1999, O’Hea founded Vehizero with the idea of tackling Mexico’s air problems with real solutions. Mexico City is the third largest urban area and has one of the worst air pollution problems in the world. About 22 million people live in the metropolitan area, with about eight million cars in circulation. There were 218 days in 2006 during which the city did not meet acceptable air quality standards for ozone limits. Even against this backdrop, Mexico’s consumers have been slow to adopt hybrid technology, primarily for economic reasons. In 2006 a major car manufacturer introduced a hybrid vehicle to the Mexican market, but the response was lukewarm. O’Hea explains, “In the United States, the taxpayer is provided a 30 percent discount for hybrid vehicles, in the form of government subsidies, thus making them affordable. Here in Mexico, car companies charge the actual cost, which is more than a traditional gas powered car. The savings are not seen right away, so people didn’t see the benefit. Only wealthy people who want to help the environment would buy the cars. This was not practical for most Mexicans, and so it failed.” Most consumers in Mexico prefer to buy the largest cars they can afford, whether to feel safe driving the kids around or while maneuvering through traffic. The hybrid model was discontinued in Mexico in 2007. For this reason, Vehizero is concentrating on building commercial trucks for industry. By focusing on commercial clients,Vehizero hopes to avoid the built-in barriers of the consumer market. In the case of hybrid vehicles, an average savings of 100 pesos per day for a consumer takes on much greater meaning when calculated out for a whole fleet on the road. Companies are showing interest. Mexico’s largest bakery, is beginning to use Vehizero’s Ecco trucks in it’s fleet. Once Vehizero’s trucks are added to a whole fleet of trucks, the savings add up quickly. With Vehizero’s technology, the only energy used is when the accelerator is pushed. But the real breakthrough is in their regenerative braking system. When you press on the brake, ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

the energy produced is captured and stored in the transient storage system, which in turn sends that energy back to the electrical battery pack. This system makes it an ideal vehicle for Mexico City’s stop and go traffic. Vehizero’s one-ton Ecco truck can run for 150 kms, within a time span of eight – ten hours. This fits in perfectly with a delivery truck’s average daily run. Vehizero’s proprietary technology allows them to sell its vehicles for less than traditional hybrid vehicles. The Ecco truck sells for 13,500 USD, a purchase price that, O’Hea maintains, companies will recoup within six months of average daily use. In addition, maintenance is almost non-existent with the Ecco truck because almost all of the power comes from the electrical engine. As O’Hea puts it, “When was the last time you had to take your hair dryer in to the shop to get it serviced?” The gas powered engine that the trucks use requires only 1/2 liter of oil, one spark plug and a cardboard oil filter to do a complete tune-up. This lowers the cost of a traditional tune-up considerably.

Sean O’Hea in his manufacturing plant with an Ecco prototype

Investor financing was solidified in the first two months of 2008. One of the investors is the State of Aguascalientes. It is there that Vehizero is going to build their new manufacturing plant. Scheduled to be up and running by November, the company plans to build 25 vehicles per month until the end of the year. In 2009, the goal is to produce 2,000 per year, and 10,000 per year by 2012. The plant will start employing 50 people, with steady monthly hiring as production rates rise. “It was important to me to solve a problem for Mexican companies in a way that makes sense to them,” says O’Hea, “The environmental benefit is secondary to the cost savings that companies will receive by using our trucks. It is an important one, of course, but if we don’t help them improve the bottom line, they wouldn’t use the product.” Vehizero’s long-term goals include exporting to other countries. The focus will be on developing nations with problems that are similar to Mexico’s, such as China, Brazil and Malaysia.Vehizero will use Mexican technology to help other developing economies around the world improve their profitability while protecting the environment. Sounds like a good deal. For more information on Vehizero, visit their web site at www.vehizero.com

The Ecco runs on an electrical battery system and a standard fuel back up

ADiP 32

By David Roman Porcayo Photos by Epitacio

lastic bags not only pollute our land but wreak havoc in our oceans as well. A recent US report concluded that 100,000 marine mammals die each year in the worldÂ´s ocean by eating or becoming entangled in plastic. One of the reasons marine anmals are endangered is the fact that they mistake these floating semitransparent bags for jellyfish and eat them; many are found dead with plastic bags in their stomachs. Another study in South Africa showed that 90 percent of chicks of marine birds examined had plastic in their stomachs. Plastics may remain in their stomachs, blocking digestion and possibly causing starvation. Because of ocean currents researchers are now also finding plastic garbage in Antarctic regions!

JUST A REGULAR DAY AT THE SUPERMARKET According to the head cashiers at Zihuatanejo’s Comerical Mexicana and Bodega Aurrea, on average each shopper takes home ten plastic shopping bags per visit, contributing to the dissemination of at least 8,000 plastic bags per day, in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo alone. WHAT WE CAN DO Reduce the amount of plastic used in packaging and use our own bags or recycled paper bags. Here in Mexico there is a long tradition of bringing your own shopping bag, now the traditional Mexian market bag has become a popualr souvenir, the bags are colorful and brightly decorated.. Take one (or ten) along with you.

ADiP 34

By Maura Taylor

So, the next time you have a chance to put these tips into practice, remember that the more we conserve our energy, the more we are conserving Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. Eliminate Wasted Energy – Turn off appliances, lights, computers and printers when they are not in use. Energy Efficient Lighting and Appliances - Replace regular incandescent light bulbs that are used more than two hours per day with energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs. Compact fluorescent light bulbs use approximately 75 percent less electricity than regular light bulbs and last up to seven years! Buy energy efficient lamps and light fixtures. When buying new appliances, be sure to purchase energy efficient models. ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

ol -F ot co lin ar th ec ©

As this issue is dedicated to the environment and ways in which we can reduce our impact on our naturally beautiful surroundings, we provide here a short list of simple energy saving tips. These tips can be utilized in your home or condo and will both reduce the impact locally and help to sustain our community for years to come.

ith all of the concerns we have about the destruction of the environment and the depletion of our natural resources, it would do us all a bit of good to place more thought into conservation. We've all been guilty of wasting energy, whether we want to admit it or not. Leaving lights on when walking out of a room, keeping the A/C on full blast even when we are not home and sometimes taking way longer showers than are needed. Without completely changing our lifestyles, there are simple ways in which we can conserve, and with electricity and water in sometimes scarce supply in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, it is increasingly important that we become more aware in our efforts to conserve.

Install Energy Saver Showerheads – Not only will this save you electricity, but water as well. Replace Air Conditioner Filters - Dirty filters restrict airflow and can cause the system to run longer, increasing energy use. Replace filters monthly for maximum benefit and save up to 2 percent. Do Laundry Efficiently - Run the washer only when you have a full load of laundry to save energy and water. Check the lint filter before each load. Lint buildup blocks air flow and lengthens drying time, costing you energy dollars. Fix Leaky Faucets - Leaky faucets can add to your water bill so repair them as soon as possible. You can also save by installing an inexpensive "flow control" device in shower heads and faucets. Run Your Dishwasher Full - Significant savings take place by running your dishwasher

only when it is full. Running a half-filled dishwasher twice uses two times as much energy as running a full load once. Opening the dishwasher after the rinse cycle and letting the dishes air dry is another way to save energy. Microwave It - A microwave oven is an energy efficient alternative to a conventional oven. It cooks food more quickly and it uses 70-80 percent less electricity than a regular oven. Install Lighting Controls – Timers, sensors and dimmers are all electricity savers. Install them wherever possible so that you always have just the right amount of light needed. Don't Keep the Fridge Door Open Close it to keep the cold air inside! Also, make sure the door closes securely. You can test the rubber seal around the door by closing the door on a dollar bill, and then see how easy it is to pull out. If the dollar slides out easily, the door is probably leaking cold air from inside and the seal needs to be replaced.

About the author: Maura Taylor lives in Zihuatanejo and serves as project manager and design consultant for condo finishing, home remodeling and new construction projects in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area. You can visit her website at www.zihuaid.com or contact her directly at (755) 101 9711 or info@zihuaid.com

ADiP 36 Books

Furniture

Mother Nature/My Nature, Owen Lee’s new book on ecology now available through amazon. com. Prisoner in Paradise, also available through amazon.com, for delivery in Zihuatanejo, call Owen 755-102-7111 or owenzih@yahoo. com.

FOR SALE: 2 Round Glass-top dining room tables, with bamboo & wicker base, 8 chairs. Good condition. 4,000 pesos, or 2,500 each. Tel. 755-554-6525. FOR SALE: Stackable Washer & Dryer – never been used. Electric washer, gas dryer. 8,000 pesos. 755-554-6226

Intercultural Communication, A Practical Guide. Find ADiP featured author, Tracy Novinger’s invaluable book at the ADiP office in downtown Zihuatanejo, Juan Alvarez #34 next door to Aeromexico, 200 pesos each. Employment Be Part of the team that makes this magazine. AD SALES - ADiP magazine needs ad sales representatives for Ixtapa-Zihua, and Patzcuaro, Uruapan, Morelia, Michoacan. Flexible hours, full and part-time positions. Must be dependable, reliable, professional. Bilingual a plus, own transportation a plus. 755-554-6525, info@ adip.info. COMMUNITY EDITOR – Ideal candidate will be Bilingual with magazine or newspaper experience, superb organizational, management and writing skills, a sincere interest in Mexico, and the philanthropic aims of the publication. 755-554-6525, info@adip.info. Fellowship IXTAPA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. Non-denominational English language service every Sunday at 10am at Villas Paraiso in Ixtapa. Contact Ron 755-554-5919 or John & Joan at 755-553-1618 for more information. ZIHUATANEJO CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. Non-denominational English language service every Sunday morning in Zihuatanejo, Contact John &Betty 755-5547178 for more information.

Investment and Business Opportunities DEVELOPER INVESTMENT/JOINT VENTURE OPPORTUNITY Playa Blanca Resort Development - Low density master plan featuring vernacular and ecologically friendly design of villas and resort amenities. We have recruited the development team and have obtained the necessary approvals to proceed. Please contact us at 312.925.9238 or playablanca@sbcglobal.net for more details. Language Schools ¡LEARN SPANISH! Centro de Idiomas Mesoamericano - David Roman, M.A. (University of Georgia, UGA). Over 26 years teaching Spanish as a second language. Address Edif. O Dept. 101, Villas del Pacifico (next to Bodega Aurrerá) Tel. 112-2042; cel. (755)110-8075; E-mail: davidroman88@ hotmail.com www.mesoamericano.org, www. paseosculturales.com ¡SPANISH IN MAGICAL PATZCUARO! Live the language in one of the most magical places in México, on beautiful Lake Patzcuaro. At CELEP we believe that learning Spanish should be an enjoyable process, and that studying a language in a cultural setting can be especially effective. Classes from 1 week to 1 month. Centro de Lenguas y Ecoturismo de Pátzcuaro, Navarrete 50 Centro, Tel. [01] (434) 342-4764, celepatz@prodigy.net.mx, www. celep.com.mx Recovery

“12 STEP HOUSE” English speaking recovery groups. Directly across from the biblioteca (library) on Cuauhtemoc, AAMonday and Friday 6:00 PM NA- Wednesday 6:00 PM. Additional meetings November April. For more info call Tom (755) 112-1919 or Mike cell 044-755-104-4544 Services LEGAL CONSULTING - Buying Property? Condo Associations? Starting a new business? Forming a Mexican corporation? Immigration papers? If you need assistance please contact Stefano Maci, Attorney at Law, fluent in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Italian, at s_maciattorney@prodigy.net.mx or call 755111-1813 locally, or from the U.S. 011-52-755111-1813. ALDO`S ITALIAN LASAGNA: Home made for large and small parties. Call: 755 104 6286. English spoken MASSAGE: Martha, next to Museum Zihuatanejo, at the main beach, next to Sunset Restaurant. Sport and Relaxing Massage. Get a wonderful experience with a daughter of an elder Mexican midwife and Healer.Phone: (755) 110 5490, (755)124 3571; Martha Peñaloza Galván PARTY DESSERTS FROM MARIANA: Everything sweet for any occasion. Made to order cakes, pastries and cookies. simojobel@ hotmail.com Call Mariana 755 104 6286. English spoken Tours HIKING TOURS – Discover beautiful local trails with knowledgeable guide. Tours can be arranged for fabulous coastal views, native or medicinal plants, bird watching, or can include trips to hidden beaches for picnics and snorkeling. 1/2 day or full day trips available. Horseback riding tours also available. Call Ignacio, 044-755-559-8884, 755-544-8315, English spoken.

RealEstate April 2008

another day in paradise

Cerro de Vigia, Photos by Marc Pouliot

another day in paradise magazine, where real estate is bought and sold in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, México

ADiP 40

By Carlos Padilla Massieu Eco Projects by Architect Luis TreviĂąo

ustainable architecture seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings by enhancing efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, and development space. These are the basic recommendations for an ecological sustainable home and can give you an idea of where to begin if you are planning on building and would like to follow ecological and sustainable norms. The constructed area must not exceed 20 percent of the green area, in an area as small as 500 square meters (the percentage of the green area can be larger than 20 percent, but never smaller to be considered ecological, it will also depend on the location of the project and its surroundings and natural-resources). This will help create a balance between the constructed area and the green area which helps generate oxygen and in the recovery of the aquifers. The construction should be oriented in relation to the sun in order to use less energy. The construction materials must be at least 85 percent from within the region, as long as the production of these resources demands less consumption of energy than the importing of foreign materials. It is important to indicate that the use of the natural materials such as stone, dirt, adobe, clays and wood are the most recommended. In case of using wood it is very important to check that the producers of this material are authorized and are applying a program of renovation of forests and / or jungles. Preferably the energy needs should be renewable and from within the region; if in your area you have abundant sunshine, you will want to take advantage of it in order to heat water and generate electric power. If there is a constant wind, such as the ocean breeze you can take advantage of it in order to cool the rooms. The construction must have a water storage system for rain and a biological treatment (digestor or septic tank) system with appropriate reutilization in the same place by means of natural filters. The construction must not overtax the limits of the property, as a minimum there must be an area of restriction of at least three meters in the adjacent boundaries, if ÂŠAnother Day in Paradise ÂŽ, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

the construction has three meters of height. It must increase proportionally as much as it increases the height of the building. Example: if the construction has two levels (approximately six meters of height) the separation will must be of at least six meters; they must have in addition six meters to the front and six meters behind, minimally. The barriers between two lots should not be high walls that block sunshine and airflow, boundaries can be made with natural barriers (vegetation) or walls made of firebricks or stone, with a maximum 1.60 meters in height.

The constructed area should have appropriate places for storage of inorganic wastes, and items to be cleaned and classified for recycling, in addition to designated areas to make composts with organic wastes if they will be used in the gardens. The lot should posses a minimum of 20 percent green area to cultivate organic produce such as vegetables or fruit trees An appropriate area should be built, designed for a domestic workshop, to promote work at home.

The Ecological Condominium Condominiums can be ecological as well if their interior and exterior constructions are also informed by the previous recommendations and by their nature of sharing resources can be ecological dwellings in themselves. But it is important that this type of multi-family developments not be made very big, or these benefits can get lost in large developments that use too many resources. Suggestions for condos developments are: The alleys that the condominium needs should preferably be one-way and with a width of at least three meters, attached to other three meters to every side designed as walkways, services and green spaces. It should rely on a zone of ecological protection (or community green space) of at least 20 percent of the whole of the surface destined for housing constructions. It should include a community center that has a lounge for meetings, a community shopping center to exchange particular produce, and a center of collection for the inorganic wastes, clean and recyclable (glass, plastics, cardboard, etc.). These are just a few suggestions for building more ecological and sustainable architecture, but it is important to note that all of these recommendations in themselves cannot create a real sustainable development if the persons inhabiting them do not have the correct attitude or behavior about the environment, as in the end it is the people living there that create the sustainability. ÂŠAnother Day in Paradise ÂŽ, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

About the Author: Carlos Padilla is recognized as one of the most important promoters of ecology, recycling and conservation in Mexico with much experience and study in sustainable urban development. He has offered innumerable conferences on these themes to universities, governments, and communities across the country. For more information you can reach Mr. Padilla at carpama65@hotmail.com o by telephone in Morelia, Michoacan: 01(443) 3202419. About the architect: Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo based Architect Luis Treviño, studied architecture in Guadalajara. After working in Morelia since 1993, Treviño moved to Ixtapa almost 7 years ago, and he has been working in successful ecological projects in Morelia and the Zihuatanejo area. For more information contact: Luistrevinopg1@ prodigy.net.mx or vistit www.luistrevino.com

ADiP 43

By Ana Lilia Lozano Photo by Epitacio

he following information concerns all beach front lots owners.

Recently the environmental authorities have partially released an official and general survey of all Federal Maritime Zones that border the coastal areas of this State. This official survey is only being carried out in the state of Guerrero. It describes the areas known as “Terrenos Ganados al Mar” or Land Gained to the Sea that exist between such Federal Maritime Zones and the beach front properties. This survey, among other things, intends to establish an official parameter in the elaboration of any individual Federal Maritime Zone or Land Gained to the Sea survey that is used to apply for concessions over such areas. Most of our clients know what the Federal Maritime Zone is and are aware about the process of acquiring the concession rights of the Federal Maritime Zone that is adjacent to their beach front lots. However, most of them are uncertain about the nature of this Land Gained to the Sea and if these lands can be ‘acquired’ in any form. The purpose of this message is to briefly describe what a Land Gained to the Sea is and how it can be acquired.The Federal Maritime Zone is the 20meter wide strip of firm and transitable land that borders beaches or natural deposits of marine water. As mentioned before the Land Gained to the Sea is a fraction of land that may exist between such Federal Maritime Zone and the adjacent private property (beach front lot). Both Federal Maritime Zone and Land Gained to the Sea are considered public property, which means that the Government is the owner. While the Federal Maritime Zone usage can only be ‘acquired’ through a concession by means of which the licensee only acquires rights to ‘use and enjoy’ such Federal Maritime

Zone in an exclusive manner, the Land Gained to the Sea can be ‘acquired’ either through a concession or via public sale (auction) by means of which the purchaser acquires the direct title over such land, converting it into private property. No further fee or right should be payable to the Government after the price for the (public) sale is paid. The price payable for the sale will be estimated based on an official appraisal. The process of acquiring the concession over Land Gained to the Sea is similar to the process of acquiring a Federal Maritime Zone concession. The process of acquiring via public sale the Land Gained to the Sea certainly could represent a larger and more annoying process, however the outcome is that this land will be converted into private property and for that reason will be totally sellable. This process has several phases in it which must be done correctly. This process does take time and we estimate that it could run as long as two years to complete. An important note to consider is that the i) owners of the adjacent lots that ii) have acquired the concession title over the adjacent Federal Maritime Zone, have the right of preference to acquire via direct sale the Land Gained to the Sea. In this order of ideas, the public auction or sale will not take place but the direct sale in favor this person. Note that not all beach front lots present having Land Gained to the Sea. For the above, it is important to check on your particular case before proceeding. Since the Government has just released the surveys for the State of Guerrero, our firm has begun several of these procedures. Connell & Associates will be offering a seminar explaining this new development, if you are interested in finding out if you have Land Gained to the Sea, please contact us for more information and when the seminar will be held.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ana Lilia Lozano Abazan is a certified attorney at law and a partner of the law firm Connell & Associates. Her areas of specialization include real estate law, foreign investment law, agrarian law and ejido matters, immigration and naturalization law, civil law, labor law, patent and brands, corporate law and contracts, alternative conflict resolution, litigation, environmental law; federal zone concessions, water concessions, environmental impact studies; title insurance and escrow agreements. Ms. Lozano is also certified by the Supreme Court Justice of the State of Guerrero as an expert witness in matters of English-Spanish and Spanish-English translation.You can contact her by e-mail at alozano@mexicolaw.com.mx - or at her office in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Mexico by telephone: (755) 5541370 / 554-7957/ 550400, or Fax: (755) 554 2035.You can also visit her firm’s website: www.mexicolaw.com.mx

Anuncia tu propiedad en la sección Real Estate Listing Por $ 400 pesos al mes.

Promoción: 3 propiedades por $ 1,000 pesos Informes y contrataciones: Calle Juan N. Alvarez # 34 (a lado de Aeromexico) Col. Centro Zihuatanejo Gro. Tel. (755) 554 6525 Cel. 755 104 5057

ADiP 44

By John Glaab

xtapa-Zihuatanejo was the site of the First Annual Real Estate Fair. The event was sponsored by Mexico Advisors a firm specializing in cross border tax issues and financial planning, The Settlement Company® and Another Day in Paradise magazine that specializes in real estate. The week-long event featured seminars, round table questions and answer sessions and daily Property Showcases featuring Open Houses at a wide variety of area developments, showcasing what type of property is available in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area. Raoul Rodriguez-Walters a Certified Financial Planner and well-known Mexican real estate authority Linda Neil presented an educational seminar on buying real estate in Mexico. This included all aspects of the transaction and the financial laws and tax implications in Mexico. The session was attended by real estate professionals and potential investors. That afternoon, Linda Neil chaired a panel called, “Challenges and benefits of property ownership in Mexico.” The panel answered questions on all facets of Mexican real estate and developing property in this country. On the panel were Tim Sullivan, a local independent broker, David Connell of Connell and Associates a firm of attorneys, accountants and consultants with offices in Mexico City, Zihuatanejo and

The Panel: Tim Sullivan of Ixtapa Real Estate, David Connell of Connell & Associates, Lucy Bello of Century 21-Ixtapa, Raoul Rodriguez-Walters, Linda Neil

Property Showcase Real Contramar

Puerto Vallarta, (the firm represented clients who were caught up in the notorious Punta Banda land situation), Raoul Rodriguez-Walters from Mexico Advisor, Linda Neil from the Settlement Company® and Lucy Bello the local Broker for Cetury-21. On the final day, Raoul and Linda presented a seminar especially for the Spanish speaking members of the real estate industry. Linda also delivered a power point presentation on the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals. (AMPI) It outlined the history of the association, its objectives and the strategic plan for 2008. The new Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Section of AMPI will be inaugurated in March.

Event Sponsors: John Glaab, Linda Neil of the Settlement Company, Another Day in Paradise´s Catherine Krantz, Raoul Rodriguez-Walters of MexicoAdvisors

Property Showcase Naivi

Property Showcase Real Contramar

About the author: John Glaab has been a member of NAR’s International Section for over a decade. He has earned the Certified International Property Specialist designation and is a founding member of AMPI Los Cabos. He spends half the year in La Paz, Baja California Sur and the other half in Uruapan, Michoacan. For further information John.glaab@settlement-co.co

Property Showcase Las Palmas

Enjoy the panoramic ocean view from this premium beachfront, 9th floor, Amara condominium in Ixtapa. Sleeps nine - Two king, one queen, and one twin bedroom, each with separate bathrooms; maids quarters and bathroom; washer, dryer, full kitchen; three swimming pools; fitness center. Close to shops and restaurants. www.ixtapacondominium.com

Ixtapa Palma Real Golf Course Spacious Home for Sale – Walking distance to beach. 4 bdrm, 4 bath + maid’s room. Large swimming pool, walled with secure off street parking for 3. Airy 2-story, 350 sq mt/ approx. 3,500 sqft. US $ 350,000. Ixtapa Cel. 755-100-4725, casaixtapa@hotmail.com

Cozy Cottage - Patzcuaro - Escape the heat in beautiful Patzcuaro. Spacious 2brdm, 1 bath, duplex, in quiet hilltop ex-pat enclave, with lake and mountain vistas y brisas. For Rent by the week. Fully furnished with kitchen, patio, parking, 3 fireplaces. Wireless internet. 20 min. walk or 20 peso taxi ride to central plazas. $350 US/ week. Contact Catherine for more info, info@adip.info ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.

ADiP 48

Bay View Grand Residences # 801S Fabulous luxury condominium with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths. Excellent beach front location with 2 swimming pools, gymnasium & business center. $525,000 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Trapiche Ixtapa #1101 This 3 bdrm, 3 bath luxury apartment located in the Vista de las Rocas area of Ixtapa is the perfect choice for the discerning buyer looking for prime location and exclusivity. Property includes tennis court, swimming pool, steam room, gym and much more. Asking price $475,000 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Cascada # 821 This 1 bedroom, 1.5 bath apartment located in the La Ropa Beach area of Zihuatanejo is the perfect choice for the discerning buyer looking for prime location and strong rentability. $165,000 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Finestre Ixtapa La Cala #3 This unique 4 bedroom, 4 bath apartment located within one of the area’s most exclusive gated communities offers style, comfort and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. $1,320,000 U.S. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@ prodigy.net.mx

Colina de las Palomas #358 Enjoy panoramic views of Ixtapa from the azure sea to the verdant mountains and everything in between from this 6 bdrm, 2-story single-family home on the hillside above Palma Real Golf Course. Swimming pool with hot tub, covered parking, secure entrance and much, much more. Offered unfurnished and asking $9,450,000 Mexican Pesos. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Bay View Grand Residential Villa #2N Life could just not get any better than this! Condominium living with your own private garden with large dip pool all located within yards of Ixtapa Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The villa contains 2 bedrooms & 2 baths, spacious living and dining area with high ceilings and direct access to the private garden. The property also comes with 2 covered parking spaces. Offered unfurnished and asking $345,000 dollars. Contact Tim Sullivan at Ixtapa Real Estate (755) 553 3218, ixtaparealestate@prodigy.net.mx

Patzcuaro - For Rent- 1, 2, & 3brdm apts and houses for rent by the week or month in quiet hilltop ex-pat enclave, with lake and mountain vistas. Semifurnished with kitchens. 20 min. walk or 20 peso taxi ride to central plazas and shopping. Contact Monica for more info, monagris@yahoo.com, Tel 434-342-7019

Patzcuaro - For Rent - 1, 2, & 3brdm apts and houses for rent by the week or month in quiet hilltop ex-pat enclave, with lake and mountain vistas. Semifurnished with kitchens. 20 min. walk or 20 peso taxi ride to central plazas and shopping. Contact Monica for more info, monagris@yahoo.com, Tel 434-342-7019

Beautiful Taos-Style Modern Adobe 3,000 sq ft house in a private valley with gated access, 5.5 acres, gardens, pressurized water, grounded electrics, internet, SKY TV, stables, vineyard, old-growth pines, and tranquility by Lake Zirahuen. For more info and photos see: www.mexatua.net/page.cfm/ property?p=78

For Rent Flamingo Golf Villas, - 3 & 4 Bedroom Beautifully Decorated Villas Overlooking the Marina Ixtapa Golf Course and Across the Street to Ixtapa Beach. 3 Minute Walk to the Marina, Restaurants and close to all the Shopping Areas of Ixtapa. Contact us at 755-553-1297 (Ixtapa) or (619) 840-4884 (USA) FlamingoGolf@hotmail.com http://www.ixtapa-mexico. com/flamingogolf//

Zihuatanejo Bay Views-  Selected lots located above La Ropa Beach.  All with unobstructed views of the Zihuatanejo Bay and Pacific Ocean.  For information call (755) 553-3221, or cell 044 (755) 104-6220. or email gone2zwhat@aol.com

Resort Ownership on Playa La Ropa Club Intrawest *1,2 & 3-bedroom Vacation Home *Sweeping ocean views

Club Intrawest - Zihuatanejo *Private terraces with plunge pool *Zi - The Restaurant at Club Intrawest Tel. 755 555 0382

Club Intrawest – Playa La Ropa, Zihuatanejo *Visit the Discovery Center.  Open daily. *Variety of ownership opportunities available Tel. 755 555 0382

Playa La Ropa Bed and Breakfast - 11 bedroom bed and breakfast hotel offered for sale at $820,000 USD near La Ropa Beach. This is an excellent opportunity to own your business in Zihuatanejo and live in paradise year round. Contact John Murphy at 755-554-0719 for information.

Zihuatanejo 5 bedroom home or hotel with development potential. Up to 2.5 acres with bay frontage and panoramic views in developed neighborhood. Please contact John Murphy at john@mexicobeachproperty.com or phone 755554-0719 for more information

*Spacious floor plans Tel. 755 555 0382

Mexico Beach Property - Beachfront lots with sandy beach frontage starting at $200,000. Condominiums, homes, hotels and development properties available. For more information please contact John Murphy at john@mexicobeachproperty. com or phone 755-554-0719

Monte Cristo Zihuatanejo - See full page ad for more information. www.montecristomexico.com, Tel. 755-102-7728

For Sale. Spacious villa with a very nice view to the green of the golf course $330, 000 USD REDUCED It features 4 bdrm with A/C, 4 bathrooms, maid’s room, kitchen, dining room, pool and spacious garden. recently remodeled, pool with outdoor bathroom. Contact Yadira Ríos at Prudential California Realty Ixtapa/Zihua Division, Cel. +521 (755) 100 59 10, Office +52 (755) 544 87 87 and +52 (755) 544 87 88 or email: yadira@pruzi.com.mx or visit our Web site: www.pruzi.com.mx

Patzcuaro For Sale – Villa La Jacaranda. Large landscaped grounds, trees. Spacious house 3 bdrms/2baths+casita 1 bdrm/1 bath+covered workshops++. Sculptured cantera fireplace, unique features. 15 min. walk to center. US$470,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patz-jacaranda.htm or Re/Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

Monte Cristo Zihuatanejo - See full page ad for more information. www.montecristomexico.com, Tel. 755-102-7728

For Sale. Luxurious condo overlooking the bay at la ropa beach $400,000 USD Luxuriously appointed 2bedroom, 2-bath condominium in a small, exclusive development situated above La Ropa beach with a spectacular view of the bay of Zihuatanejo. Contact Sarahi Cortez for more details at Prudential California Realty Ixtapa/Zihua Division, Cel. +521 (755) 102 80 27, Office +52 (755) 544 87 87 and +52 (755) 544 87 88 or email: sarahi@pruzi.com.mx or visit our Web site: www.pruzi.com.mx

Patzcuaro For Sale—Charming 2 bdrm/2 bath colonial home 2 blocks from Plaza Grande in Historic Center. Courtyard, interior carport, light, tranquil. Traditional materials/features. Sol #2 US$205,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patz-homes.htm or Re/ Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

Monte Cristo Zihuatanejo - See full page ad for more information. www.montecristomexico.com, Tel. 755-102-7728

Spectacular Ocean Front residence $651,500 USD Starting. Naiví- an exclusive ocean view development located in Contramar, one of the most beautiful areas in Ixtapa.  3 to 5 BDRM – 4 to 6 BATH, A/C, private pool, garden and terraces. Gloria Pérez, Prudential California Realty Ixtapa/ Zihua, cel. 044 755 102 81 47, office 011 52 (755) 544 8787, 011 52 (755) 544 8788 info@pruzi.com.m x, www.pruzi.com.mx.

Patzcuaro For Sale – Spacious 3 bdrm/3 bath colonial home 2 blocks from Plaza Grande in Historic Center. Interior courtyard, garage, quiet street. Built with traditional materials/features. Sol #3 US$248,000. Owner www.novinger.com/patzhomes.htm or Re/Max 11 Patios 434-342-20-30

For Rent Villas Palma Sol Behind Hotel Ixtapa Palace, 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 bathrooms, living room, kitchen, swimming pool, relaxation area, A/C. Fully furnished. USD$300 per day, USD$1,000 per week or USD$2,200 per month. Contact: Cel. 755 558 9059, e-mail campu_dsc_88@hotmail.com

For Rent Ixtapa Villa.  Charming 2 Story, 3 BR- 2-1/2 Bath, large pool and large barbaque ‘palapa’. Caretaker on property. Clean, attractive and comfortable, air conditioned, fully furnished. 10 Minute walk to Movie theater, shops, restaurants, hotels and main beach. US$330 p/ night, $1200 p/ week, $2500 p/ month. CA: Lilia Roman. romanlil@hotmail.com. Tel (415) 395 6002. Mexico: David Roman. davidroman88@hotmail.com tel 52 1 (755) 110 8075 (755) 112 2042

For Sale. In La Ropa, 2,679.50sq. mts. Of Lot located in Residential Tourism zone at 100 mts. walking from “LA ROPA” beach, (Acces to the beach) behind the restaurant “LA PERLA”. The Lot has property titled price at $ 650,000.00 U.S.D. Information Call (755) 553 02 23

For Rent: On the Beach at Buena Vista (between Ixtapa and Troncones) New 2 suites with Baths and complete separate kitchen, large Terrace, 7 kilometers of beach, Secluded, quiet, peaceful! Sit on the terrace and watch the sunset. Car necessary. By day, week or month. Call 755-108-1611 of go to: http://lacasadedosamigas.blogspot.com

Casa Frida – Unique Home For Sale Barra de Potosi – Custom built 4Bdrm, 5 Bath, 3 separate buildings. Master Bdrm, dining, living, kitchen and terrace with ocean view. Lush tropical garden with swimming pool. Open Air kitchen and dining room. Separate caretaker’s house. Can be used as B&B or private residence. $350,000 US, www.casafrida.net, casa-frida@zihuatanejo.net Tel. 755-557-0049

For Sale - Troncones beachfront property. 2 story home plus open palapa rooftop. 3 bedroom, 3 baths; living / dining and kitchen on 2 floors. 2347 sq mts beautiful mature tropical landscaping. Rental history. Tel 755-553-2861 for appointment.

Casa de la Sirena For Rent in Troncones: Beachfront private villa (kings) with private pool, 2-story bungalows (queens) with pool. Open air kitchens/living rooms, a/c, BBQ/wet bar, WiFi, www.casadelasirena.net, www.houseofthemermai d.com

Casa de la Sirena For Rent in Troncones, Very private,. Very romantic, Very upscale. Weddings Corporate Events, Family Reunions - Honeymoons Perfect for couples or rent the entire compound. www.casadelasirena.net www.houseofthemermai d.com

Casa de la Sirena For Rent inTroncones: Beachfront 1 bedroom (kings) mini villas with open air kitchen and living rooms. Swim up pool bar, entertainment center, BBQ/wet bar, WiFi. www.casadelasirena.net www.houseofthemermaid.com

For Sale - Cerro del Vigìa Model Home - Another Enrique Zozaya jewel! 2 or 3 BR, 3 Bath designer home perched above the bay, or build your own on a lot of your choosing with views to Las Gatas or Barra de Potosi and Playa Blanca. Listed at US$615,000  Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@ prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Sale - Las Palmas Condominiums - A new development of only 18 two or three BR lovely condos, located within close walking distance to La Ropa Beach. Be one of the first to own while they are in pre-sales prices. Starting at US$168,000. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradiseproperties.com.mx

For Sale:  La Ropa Condo - Just above Hotel Villa del Sol.  Brand new 2 BR, 2 bath in newest development in La Ropa.  Open living area w/ full terrace and mesmerizing bay view.  Fully furnished, internet access, satellite TV, equipped kitchen w/stainless steel appliances and granite countertops.  Large infinity pool.  Elevator and gated entrance.  Can be excellent rental unit.  US$400,000.  Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078, www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Sale - Villas del Vigìa - 2 BR - 2 bath condos, finished interiors, each with private minipool on its terrace. best views in all directions. Model open daily. The only “green” development in Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo. Gated community, tennis courts, jogging path, An idyllic lifestyle is yours in Cerro del Vigìa. Starting at US$385,000. Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226 www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Rent - The only private residence located right on La Ropa Beach.  Completely private, large pool, 3 BR, 3 bath, kitchen w/service bar, al fresco living area under breezy palapa.  A/C in bedrooms, DSL internet access, satellite TV, fully staffed.  US$1,000 p/day high season; US$800 p/day low season.  Judith Whitehead Paradise properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 755-5546226,www.paradiseproperties.com.mx

For Sale: Ixtapa - Amuzgos - Adorable 2 BR, 2 Bath condo, a/c, ceiling fans, lovely terrace with view, large pool in common area. Only 10 condos total with caretaker cottage at entrance. Off street parking. Excellent value & priced to sell. Listed at US$255,000 Judith Whitehead Paradise properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 7555546226,www.paradise-properties.com.mx

For Sale - Beautiful Ixtapa Beachfront- Private Villa, 2-story, 4 BR/5 Bath + Maid’s room. Large Pool overlooking beach. Shopping and restaurants within walking distance. One of a kind property and all you could ever want! US$1.7M Judith Whitehead, Paradise Properties,

For Rent - Playa Blanca Beachfront Home - Charming 2 Story, 4 BR-2-1/2 Bath, large pool, poolhouse and outdoor kitchen BBQ with bath, A/C BR, caretaker on property. Attractive and comfortable, 5 minute walk to Barra de Potosi. US$2,200 p/week. Judith Whitehead, Paradise

Palma Real Golf Course Villa - On a quiet cul-de-sac on the 7th hole of the golfcourse, this 2-story 3 bdrm, 31/2 bath villa in a group of only 9. Lovely furnishings, large rooms, A/C, satellite TV, telephone with DSL internet access, a large pool with sunning pools and jacuzzi, well equipped kitchen, off-street parking and 24-hour security. Improve your life, move in tomorrow! Listed at US$300,000 Judith

jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx,Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

Whitehead, Paradise Properties, jude@prodigy.net.mx, Tel. 52-(755) 554 6226, 52-(755)-557-0078,. www.paradise-properties.com.mx

Fourteen room hotel in Troncones in the center of the commercial district on the beach. Four bungalows, four king suites, three family units, and a three-bedroom twobathroom master suite. All with great views! Main Hotel Built in 2004. Fully furnished. Includes steak house, art store (inventory sold separately), full gym and skateboard park access. $2,499,500.00 or best acceptable offer. www. micasasucasa.ws for more information

Four secluded bay lots located on the south end of Troncones on the beach .Approximately 1000 meters per lot offered at $375,0.00.00 (US Dollars) each. www.micasasucasa.ws for more information

Barra de Potosi – Casa Puesta del Sol Beach Front rentals. For Sale. Safe swimming & walking distance to town. This is a perfect retirement set up, live on the Beach and live on the income. For more info go to www.casa-puesta-del-sol.com, or call Cell # 755-120-6432.

For Sale. Located in the exclusive residential zone of Marina Ixtapa, Marina Plaza offers beautiful, 2-3 bedrooms apartments, all of them with living-dining room, kitchen, 2 bathrooms and air-conditioned. Prices starting at $185,000.00 USD. 40 feet pier: $50,000.00 USDGRUPO PIA Real Estate, “The company you can trust”. Tel/Fax:.01 755 54 4 81 81 / 01 755 54 4 7870 E-mail:piabienesraices@ yahoo.com.mx. www.grupopia.com.mx

For Sale. Beachfront lots in La Saladita and the surrounding beaches. Prices from $25.00 to $100.00 USD per M2. GRUPO PIA Real Estate, “The company you can trust”. Tel/Fax:.01 755 54 4 81 81 / 01 755 54 4 7870 E-mail:piabienesraices@yahoo. com.mx. www.grupopia.com.mx

For Sale. Beachfront and oceanview lots in La Ropa area. Impressive view of Zihuatanejo Bay. Prices from $180.00 to $300.00 USD per M2. GRUPO PIA Real Estate, “The company you can trust”. Tel:01 755 54 4 81 81 / 01 755 54 4 78 70 E-mail: piabienesraices@y ahoo.com.mx. www.grupopia.com.mx

365 Sunsets-  Enjoy the sunset year round from the private terrace overlooking Ixtapa beach, Sierra Madres and Pacific Ocean.  Three bedroom/ two bath with all modern conveniences.  Priced to sell.  Financing available to US citizens.  For appointment call (755) 553-3221, or cell 044 (755) 104-6220 or email gone2zwhat@yahoo.com.

Troncones Beach Bungalows, For Rent, from $98.00 per night. Surf Shop, Gourmet Dining, on Pristine Manzanillo Bay. Visit our website at www.manzanillobay.com or call 755-553-2884

For Sale Lot Patzcuaro: Awesome location just a block away from Patzcuaro’s elegant Plaza Grande!  Great potential... Some wonderful view potential on 362.88 sq meters or 3906 sq feet of property with some very usable existing building.  Priced at $295,000 USD ryan@lacasaencantada.com or call Julieta at Tel. 434-342-3492 ©Another Day in Paradise ®, Mexico 1999. All Rights Reserved.