Free trips to the Costalegre to promote tourism

22 / Dec / 2015 Costalegre, Jalisco. (LF)  The Tourism Ministry will implement the program Free Tours, an initiative that seeks to bring the tourist destinations outside the metropolitan area of Guadalajara Jalisco who wish to know the state. Therefore, from this Friday until December 29, 14 routes to 10 different destinations in the State will be made. Among the destinations is the Costalegre.

The Ministry of Tourism regarded as tourist destinations, areas  Costalegre , Ciudad Guzman, Talpa de Allende, among other things. In addition, it is anticipated that this program an economic impact in the places visited is generated and thus to support the tourism service providers and community visited.

SECTURJAL REALIZA RECORRIDOS GRATUITOS A LA COSTALEGRE PARA FOMENTAR EL TURISMO

The future of the Costalegre

Is the Costalegre going to end up like Baja California?

More water here but not all that different

Baja All-Exclusive - English version

The rape of Mexican beaches

Costalegre to Become an Exciting Vacation Destination

Translated from Milenio Article

The construction of a tourism development that will include three hotels, a golf course and a marina in Costalegre, in the municipality of Tomatlan, Jalisco, already started and in two years will be providing service to the public, said the Minister of Tourism of the state government, Enrique Ramos Flores, in an interview with MILLENNIUM JALISCO.

The first development to start construction was that of Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH), the luxurious Cheval Blanc, who will be joined by a Four Seasons and One & Only, the official, "she said construction has already begun. It is Louis Vuitton, and began operations last January to be ready in two years. In the first half started the Four Seasons Tamarindo and in the second half the One & Only, the group Rasaland hotel near Chamela well. Are the three hotels that are guaranteed. "

Partial article from Banderas News

According to Alfonso Espinoza Estrada, delegate for the Secretary of Tourism for the State of Jalisco, "The fist step for the new airport will be to receive the permission from the Civil Aviation department to operate the airport. In the beginning we are looking for private airplanes to land for vacation travel because we already have various exclusive hotels in the area. Included in the Costalegre zone are Polo Tournaments in November and March. In order to participate in events like this you need to be able to bring in world class horses, have training spaces for them, and areas for the horses to rest so they can compete. This type of activity requires a large investment and for this we are working towards having the new airport open before this administration leaves office."

The governor has earmarked $21,000,000 USD to start the project of the new airport, highway expansion, utility services and infrastructure.

Milenio Article - in Spanish

Banderas News - Costalegre to Become an Exciting Vacation Destination

Another luxury resort for the Costalegre

Just what the hell we need

They're planning another in Riviera Nayarit

One&Only Santa Maria de Xala will be part of a new 1200-hectare development located approximately 100 kilometers (60 miles) south of Puerto Vallarta’s international airport. The authentic hacienda resort will command 8km (5mi) of impressive beach front, a connection to traditions past yet offering the latest in ultra-luxury. The resort will offer approximately 75 luxury villas and suites with private pools, providing the perfect accommodation for both couples and families. The development will also include a prestigious One&Only residential component.

The region’s heritage will be woven throughout the resort, utilizing natural elements, to inform the design of both the public and private spaces of the resort. True to the brand’s heritage, One&Only Santa Maria de Xala will offer a variety of world-class cuisines, showcasing regional specialties in restaurants overseen by internationally-acclaimed chefs. All culinary experiences will showcase the incredible local and seasonal offerings. The resort will also house an indulgent One&Only Spa, honouring the region’s heritage by utilising ancient Mexican traditions and holistic practices fused with modern spa therapies, as well as a Fitness Centre offering the latest technology and innovation. In addition, event and meeting space will be available for bespoke gatherings, whether for business or personal pleasure. One&Only Xala is planned to  break ground in 2016.

The projects led by Kerzner International, in agreement with BK Parners, boasts about the announcement, “The locations truly showcase the best Mexico has to offer, each with a distinctive experience, and I am very confident that One&Only will continue to define ultra-luxury in the region.”

One and Only Resorts - Mexico

Two luxury resorts are planned near PV

Copied from my main Blog - posted in February 

La playa de Corrales

Translated from a tourism article so it's a little corny but some very nice pictures. I've only been as far as Tehuamixtle and would like to go to Corrales some day. This whole area may be new to some of you.

In the municipality of Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco, 58 kilometers from El Tuito, Corrales Beach is located.

Los Naranjitos, Mayto, Tehuamixtle and other beaches are located on the coast. Corrales is the last beach that can be reached by land.

Nearly an hour from El Tuito, this beach Corrales receiving visitors who make their way between the mountains to reach its spectacular bay. The sandy beach is ideal for camping in tents. Visitors are advised not to leave garbage at the site.

In the village, where President Porfirio Diaz early last century ordered the construction of a maritime lighthouse, fishermen will offer fresh live seafood.

Undoubtedly, in the gentle ocean waves walkers can enjoy a experience unparalleled wrapped by the natural beauty that surrounds the beach. Visit Corrales and its beach is a ecotourism experience that offers the tourist area of Costalegre.

La playa de Corrales

Surfing Calechosa

Also known as Ranchito Beach, Costalegre Jalisco

Surf was large here in Melaque and I thought I'd take a chance on going to Ranchito beach to see what was up and check out the new development called Calechosa Bay.  The road has been improved a bit and three buildings on the property have been started but have a long way to go.  Roy's house is looking good beyond the development and I remember when he was just living in a trailer waiting for the Ejido to let him build.

The surf was pretty good but the wind was starting to come up from offshore around noon.  Probably better in the mornings.  This is the first time I've seen any surfers there.  The beach is rocky and difficult to exit and enter.  That's why the one guy shown is entering off the rocks on the point.   Took him quite awhile to decide when to jump.

Getting ready to jump

Cuastecomate in the background

Costalegre Rotary Golf Tournament

Costalegre Rotary Golf Tournament - 2015

The Rotary Club is again holding a Texas scramble "Charity", fun tournament at Isla Navidad Golf Club on January 24th,2015 at 9:00 A.M. Details are on the attached poster.Everyone has always had a good time at the event and we look forward to providing the surrounding area with a chance to aid the community and have a fun at the same time.

Another try for Chalacapetec

The New Cancun on the Costalegre failed

Here comes another rape of the coast

Louis Vuitton seeks to build super luxury hotel in Jalisco

The French brand Louis Vuitton is eyeing to build a tourist development in Jalisco .

If approved its construction would be in the Costalegre region with an investment of $ 150 million in its first stage and have one requirement: Chalacapetec airport is completed.

"The company Louis Vuitton has within its consortium a section of hotels and will be signing in the coming weeks an agreement", said Enrique Ramos, Secretary of Tourism of Jalisco.

AIRPORT

The Tourism Ministry recognizes that Chalacatepec Airport - is located between Punta Careyes and Pérula in Costalegre-, has become a priority to concluding in a timely manner and thereby increase tourism.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

The hotel would be super luxury, including a golf course and villas. His previous hotels are built on a concept of elegance, comfort and refinement.

Louis Vuitton busca edificar hotel de súper lujo en Jalisco

Viveros de la Costa - Emiliano Zapata

We went up to the beach in Arroyo Seco which is not far from Emiliano Zapata.  We combined the two last Sunday along with a stop at the Asi Azul restaurant across the street. I've passed by a number of times but never really noticed it but have heard of it. It's about the last place on the north side of town

A great old guy that seems to run it and he'll talk to you about ideas you may have; size, speed of growth, fertilizer, soil, etc. They also have a great garden soil for sale that looks to be mostly shredded coco shells.

I came back with a Carambola (star fruit), a Chico Zapote (Sapote) and an avocado that is supposed to do well on the coast. Also two Sisus vines that are like Ivy. Prices aren't much cheaper than I find in the Melaque area but the place is so large you have a much better selection. There were two pickup trucks filling up with like 40-50 of the same plants making me think they supply the local hotels.

VIVEROS DE LA COSTA Tel: (315) 351 0711
Km 41, Carretera Federal 200, Emiliano Zapata, Jalisco

What you see from the highway

It goes on

... and on

... and on

Young Buganvilla

Caretaker Wanted

SEEKING CARETAKER(S) FOR AN OFF-GRID RANCH, overlooking a spectacular, unspoiled beach on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. A rustic but comfortable house will be provided. Incredible views, swimming, fishing, etc. There is a welcoming, rural, Mexican community, plus travelers. Housing plus internet provided in exchange for four to five hours per day maintenance, animal care and yard work, from May to October. Candidate(s) must have intermediate or higher Spanish, be very comfortable in nature, and be interested in exploring a sustainable, off-grid lifestyle. Experience with goats, chickens, horses, solar electric, water systems, fencing, carpentry, and personnel management all a plus. References required. $250/month stipend plus income potential. Please email your resume and references to ranchosolymar@gmail.com 

Isabel 
www.RanchoSolyMar.com
Costalegre

Costalegre Rotary Golf Tournament

This Rotary fund raiser will be held January 14th at Hotel Grand Bay. Prizes from our sponsors - golf rounds at Tamarindo, Las Hadas, Grand Bay and hotel stays at Las Hadas, Grand Bay, Cabo Blanco, Real de Chapala. The prizes will be for longest drive, chipping contest, closest to pin and a silent auction at the end.

New Cancun of the Costalegre on hold

In April the Chalacatepec Mega Resort (New Cancun) funded by Ipejal (Jalisco State Workers Fund) and Rasaland was brought to a halt until the land dispute with the local Ejido is resolved. The injunction is against the Ministry of Agrarian Development, both nationally and in the state, Ministry of Communications and Transport, Aviation, Tomatlán City Council, the Public Registry of Property, the National Water Commission, State Government.

It seems the Aunt of Governor Emilio Gonzalez Marquez, owns 200 hectares located in Chalacatepec, that separates an area of ​​land purchased by Rasaland company to build the resort. To make management decisions for State Workers funds without making it public the Law was amended if connected to private companies. Audit information from Ipejal was not forthcoming nor was the Environmental Study info. That combined with Rasaland's connection to Goldman Sachs had some believing the whole thing was a fraud.

With the continuing land and payment dispute with the Ejido, lack of project plans and the 3-5 years to do a complete environmental study .... it looks like "The New Cancun" will be on hold for awhile.

Chalacatepec

The new Airport

Goldman Sachs?

CHALACATEPEC, EL DESFALCO DEL SEXENIO

Rodolfo Paz - Tenacatita Visionary

El Amarillo

by Carlos Tello Diaz

In the fifties, Rodolfo Paz Vizcaino had a dream: to found a city in the middle of nowhere which would become the tourist destination that the country needed. This is the tale of his dream, the story of a person who had everything and ended up with nothing. 

“I remember him in a dark grey suit and with gold teeth.” This is how a reporter described El Amarillo when he met him in jail, where he lived full of illusions. He told the reporter, “You are the man that my masterpiece needs. Do you know what it is? It’s the most extraordinary, the largest, and the most unique work that a single man has undertaken. I want to create a city! A marvelous city, where there’s no room for sadness or worries, the most beautiful in the world.” In the winter of 1960, Rodolfo Paz Vizcaino waited in cell 83 at the L block in the federal prison in Mexico City. It was Christmas Eve and he was depressed. He was lamenting that the bathrooms were “excessively dirty and the prisoner’s uniforms were old and tattered.” Paz had just been detained for writing bad checks in Guadalajara. He was still the owner of one of the most beautiful properties on the coast of Jalisco; but he didn’t want to sell his land, not even to get out of jail, because he was still blinded by the vision which had struck him decades ago, of building the most beautiful city in the world on Tenacatita bay. The people called him El Amarillo after the character from Augustín Yañez’s novel La Tierra Prodiga, a character Paz inspired and claimed as his own. In prison he wrote to the judge: “I’m attaching the book, or novel, La Tierra Prodiga, so that you, the judge, see part of my life.” This is how reality imitates fiction. 

Rodolfo Paz Vizcaino was a native of southern Jalisco. He was born in the municipality of Tonaya, one of the poorest in the state.“He was a campesino,” affirmed José Rogelio Alvarez, who headed the colonization of the coast of Jalisco during the government of Yañez. “I knew him in 1953 when he would have been about forty years old. He had to have been born around 1910 or 1915.” El Amarillo hardly began as a colonizer; he had been a rancher since his youth, but he had made his money selling goods between the coast and the highlands. He lived between Sayula and Purificación, in southern Jalisco. 

The rest of the Rodolfo Paz story

Carnaval Costalegre 2013

From the 5th to the 9th of March - Barra de Navidad

Del 6 al 9 de Marzo

Careyitos Beach Privatized

Another Costalegre beach closed to the public and fisherman. A few days before the election on July 4th, a gate was built on the entrance road and is guarded by private police. You can pass on foot but need to park on the highway and walk about 200 meters

Fishermen reported Careyitos privatization of the federal zone, after the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) withdrew the concession two days before election day.

Barboza Felipe Vega, president of the Cooperative Fish Production Punta Pérula showed documents proving that the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) closed the construction of what would be the premises of the fish market which was started with funds from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food ( SAGARPA), with grant of five million pesos. The work was unfinished and there is only part of the foundation.

Fishermen condemed the act and waiting for election day to privatize. "This was already planned. They waited for the elections and and we don't expect any help from the current governor [Emilio Gonzalez Marquez] who did nothing for Tenacatita.

Careyitos Gate

Unfinished fish market

Arroyo Seco Pro 2012 - Surf

Arroyo Seco is located about halfway between Tenacatita and Emiliano Zapata on the Costalegre (Costa Alegre) coast north of Melaque and Barra de Navidad. This event is partially sponsored by the new Las Brisas restaurant located on Las Brisas beach.

Trials and elimination start tomorrow the 13th of January and competition will be the 14th and 15th. Hours are supposed to be 9am to 6pm but they usually wait for the better tides. Follow the sign from the highway thru town past the plaza angling to the right until you can cross the "arroyo seco".   Follow that road to the beach.

Summer drive down Highway 200

Just a few pleasant pictures of the drive down Highway 200 along the Costalegre. It's really beautiful when it's green like this and should stay this way until November and maybe even December. It just depends on the rains.

Be advised that the rain bring green to the countryside but also pot-holes and occasional rock slides in the roadway. It's a sane 3.5 hours from Puerto Vallarta to Melaque if you don't spend too much time looking at all that's available.

Highway 200 on the Costalegre, Jalisco Mexico

Costalegre Video 2011

Nice little video of a trip from Vallarta down to Tuito, out to Mayto beach, over to Cajon de Peña and Tomatlan and back to Vallarta. Don't let the French bother you.

Old fotos of Cihuatlan

Similar fotos are sometimes shown at the Cihuatlan cultural center at the main intersection but the last time I saw them they were covered with "Saran Wrap" which gave them an uneven glare making fotos impossible. Not sure where the majority are stored but there are a few more in the municiple building. Below is a web site with a few more.

Cihuatlan Web Site with Old Fotos  (No more Fotos there)

Cihuatlan - on the southern border of the Costalegre

Cajon de Peña

Cajon de Peña is a large fresh water lake near Tomatlan and is great for bass fishing, mountain biking and bird watching. The reservoir was constructed 1976 and is located 18 kilometers off Highway 200 at the "El Tule" exit just north of Tomatlan.

There are two small stores and three restaurants around the lake and a few places to stay as well as a few hotels about half hour away in Tomatlan.

Stocked with Florida wide mouth bass (lobina) that run from 1 to 6 kilos the lake is great for bass fishing. Members of the local fishermen’s Cooperative offer bass fishing trips by the hour that include boat, guide and gear. Bass fishing tournaments are held at the lake each year but the dates vary depending on the water level.

Cajon de Peña

Cajon de Peña

Cajon de Peña

Cajon de Peña Dam
Near Tomatlan on the Costalegre

Hotel Rincón de la Ceiba