Jaltemba Sol Page 3

December 22, 2008

Page 3 Features, Weather, Sports, Exchange, Community Calendar

Puerto Vallarta Fishing Report
Captain Juan Pablo Moll - PVNN

Visit Juan Pablo's website at Sportfishing.com.mx

What more can I say, the fishing is great! A lot of tuna, a lot of marlin, a lot of most species, and most importantly a lot of action. We have been successful day in and day out for the past month. The weather has been ideal and the water is clean and warm, and its just going to get better over the next few months. Its definitely the right time to be in Puerto Vallarta.

Tuna

As mentioned in my previous reports the 250+ pound tuna are still here but we have definitely had better years, however they are many small and medium sized tuna at El Banco, Corbete�a, and a few other spots. We've been getting between 2 and 10 nice sized tuna per day at both spots, most weighing between 80-150 pounds. We've also found a few 300+ pounders, they are rare but we still have hope! just two years ago we were all surprised by an incredible bite in December and January. We have the most success using live bait, the kite with live caballito (google eye fish), and chumming is also working well.

Marlin

We've also had 3-4 marlin strikes per day. I've found a lot of black and blue marlin at El Banco and Corbetena, and if they're not there, they're usually just 2 - 10 miles west. Most of the blue marlin are weighing between 200 - 500 pounds, but we've also released a few black marlin that are getting up to about 900 pounds. We've had the most success with live skipjack.

Sailfish

We are also finding sailfish everywhere, and considering that the sailfish season is just starting you can expect to see more and more. We are usually releasing 1 � 3 per day, most weighing between 60 � 100 pounds. We've been most successful trolling live Mullet, lures, and live bait.

Dorado

We are also starting to see a lot more Dorado everywhere. The Dorado season is just beginning and so far it looks like it's going to be a good one. We're getting at least 3 a day, and we've had a few days with up to 15 hook-ups. Most fish are weighing between 20-60 pounds, and we've has the most luck with lures, and live bait.

Pargo

There are also a lot of pargo (snapper) at Corbete�a and El Banco. We've had a lot of luck just drifting over the high spots with both live and dead skipjack. We're usually getting 1-5 per day, most weighing between 20 - 60 pounds.

Inshore Fishing

There has also been some really good inshore fishing. Although this time of year 99% of my efforts are offshore they few times we've stopped at the point (Punta Mita) on the way in we've had a lot of fun. There's a lot of rooster fish, amber jack, and small pargo.

To sum things up, the fishing couldn't be better. There is a lot of bait in the water, the water is warm and clear, and all the other elements needed for a perfect fishing are present. There are a lot of fish at all the spots, even within the bay, and things are just getting started. If your planning to fish Puerto Vallarta, this is definitely an exciting time of year.

Good luck, good fishing, and hope to see you in Puerto Vallarta soon.
Captain Juan Pablo Moll

Click HERE for Myles Lineberger's latest fishing report

The Almost Twice Weekly Newspaper for the Jaltemba Coast

New Look for Local Landmark: 3 Flags Coffee Shop

By Tara Spears

For over twenty years the Jorge Castuera Ayon family has been providing food and service in Guayabitos. Before this beachside resort area had paved streets or internet service, Jorge owned and operated a block of stores that included a food market, a laundry, ice facility and a drug store on Avenida Sol Nuevo. Not only did they sell supplies but they had the only telephone in the area for years! Jorge said, �For 16 years we worked seven days a week with no days off. When the kids were going away to college, I decided to downsize, to just operate a coffee shop.� As you walk down the street the aroma of fresh brewed coffee entices you into the caf�. What a wonderful selection of beverages are available! Frappes, lattes, espresso, capuccino, smoothies, gourmet teas, and fresh muffins, too.

3 Flags Caf� Specialties: Cajeta Mocca and a Fruit smoothie

The tropical d�cor invites the patron to linger over the premium coffees that are brewed only when ordered to provide maximum flavor. Local artist, Rene Castigo, hand painted the jungle murals that showcase Mexican birds and creates the exotic ambiance. Jorge recently expanded the caf� to include an additional courtyard seating area. �I want the first visit to 3 Flags to be memorable so the customers come back,� Jorge explains in perfect English. �We make many friends by offering only top quality beverages. Our buns and muffins are baked fresh each day.� Another tasty caf� specialty is the Triple Piquante Breakfast special: fresh squeezed juice, thick sliced bacon, waffles, and premium coffee. The BLT plate is also very popular.

Another important feature of 3 Flags Caf� is the lending library-with over 2,000 books in English. Coffee + books +muffin, humm, great way to start the day! The permanent residents hope that the tourists will leave their novels to tide us over during the summer.

Jorge lived and went to school in northern Arizona, USA, while his father worked on the Hoover Dam. After completing his education in Mexico, Jorge worked for the government. He wanted to live by the ocean to raise his children, so he decided to become a store owner in the tiny, peaceful town of Guayabitos in the mid 1980s. His wife of 27 years, Graciela worked in the stores with Jorge, as did each of his three children: Sofia, 24; Graciela, 22; and Jorge Jr., 13. The two girls are still attending university in Tepic while Jorge, a budding musician, attends local Secondario (high school).

Graciela, 22 Jorge, Jr., 13

3 Flags Caf� has had a positive impact on the community, not just for the quality beverages, but for uniting people to a common goal. Longtime resident, Jomie Thompson says, �For years, Jorge was our only link to the outside world. He started a club that came up with the money and manpower to build a boat ramp so the locals could launch fishing boats.� While Jorge doesn�t have much free time with running the caf�, he does like to relax by watching soccer and reading. �I feel very fortunate to have accomplished a good life for my family in Guayabitos and send my children to college,� said Jorge. �I�ve met interesting people from all over the world. I�m proud that I serve only the best coffee and was the first to offer international-type coffee drinks in the Riviera Nayarit area.�3 Flags Caf� is open November to March seven days from 7am -9 pm.

Contact George (English or Spanish) 327-274-0400

Wife Graciela, right.

Contact Tara: terri_sprs@yahoo.com

One of the many statues along the Puerto Vallarta Malecon

CONALEP FUNDRAISER A great success at Xaltemba Restaurant

To view small photographs in a larger format just click on the photograph

Great Times Hinde and Jaimes

Robert Curial Plays

Workshop Tuesday January 6 1-2:30pm at the Clubhouse La Penita RV Park

BLOGGING 101

In just one and a half hours, you will create your own free blog &
basic website and learn how to use it to share news and pictures with
family and friends while you're traveling. Impress everyone (even
the grandkids!) with your techno-savvy, and keep those communication
lines open! You'll also learn how to keep up with all the news your
family is sharing on their blogs in a fun, easy to use way. Only $15
for the course, and at the end you'll have a working blog and website
that's all yours! You need to bring your own laptop if you can - or
arrange to share with a friend. A couple of extra laptops will be
available to share - but book early! Contact Karen Stranaghan,
stranagh@island.net or at site #102, at La Penita Trailer Park for more
information
Want to learn more about Crystal? Check out her website at
www.cjstranaghan.com

Workshop Tuesday January 13 12-5pm at the Clubhouse La Penita RV Park

Tell YOUR story!

Do you have a story to tell? Maybe you've written a novel, or have a
collection of stories from your life that you want to publish and
share with others? Maybe you have some knowledge that you think
might help generate some extra income if it were in book form? Thanks
to some great new technologies, you can publish your book without
breaking the bank. Publisher, self-published author and publishing
consultant Crystal Stranaghan will be staying at the La Penita
Trailer Park during January 2009, and this is your chance to learn
all about how you can achieve your dream of publishing your book -
and actually enjoy the process! In the spirit of things being
cheaper in Mexico, you can take what is usually a $200+ workshop for
only $50. For more information, or to book your spot, please contact
Karen Stranaghan, stranagh@island.net or at site #102 at the Le Penita
Trailer Park or email crystal@gumbootbooks.ca

Want to learn more about Crystal? Check out her website at
www.cjstranaghan.com

SPORTS

El Tri: Vergara Pleased With Eriksson

Outspoken Chivas del Guadalajara President, Jorge Vergara, finally came out and declared that M�xico did not commit a mistake in hiring the Swedish manager. �..More

Lucha Libre 101

Lucha Libre is the Spanish term for �free wrestling.� Renowned for its acrobatic style and wrestlers � known as luchadores � who wear colorful masks, lucha�s origin in Mexico dates to the early 1900s. �..More

Toluca Champion Of Apertura 2008

In a tremendous, dramatic, and memorable Final, veteran goalkeeper Hern�n Cristante blocked the decisive penalty that handed Toluca their ninth title. �.More

US to play qualifier vs Mexico at Columbus

CHICAGO � The United States will play its home World Cup qualifier against Mexico in Columbus, Ohio, for the third straight time following victories in 2001 and 2005�..More

Tiger Woods Visits Punta Brava, His First Oceanfront Golf Course Design

Woods Previews Course with The Flagship Group and Private Golf and Ocean Club Members at Inaugural Champions Club Event Before Chevron World Challenge �..More

Sunday Winners

Men's Day winners with three under par

Putt off gives all the money to Ross's team

5 Destinations to Watch in 2009
Christine Sarkis - SmarterTravel.com
go to original

Peru offers unforgettable destinations like Caral, the archeological ruins of what is widely recognized as the oldest city in the Americas. (Caral Project via AP)

A destination in the midst of inventing itself. Another preparing for its year in the world spotlight. Cities and regions gearing up for year-long parties. Our top picks for destinations to watch in 2009 are bursting with up-and-coming, you've-gotta-see-this attitude. Not only are these destinations on the rise, but each offers good value to travelers looking to vacation affordably in the coming year.

Plus, find out what cities and countries are celebrating big milestones and hosting major festivals. From Alaska's 50th birthday to the major party in London surrounding the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII's ascension to the throne, 2009 is ready to party. And festivals such as Homecoming Scotland 2009, which welcomes back people of Scottish heritage and "Heart Scots" who just really like the country, offer even more reasons to hit the road.

With this much excitement to come, 2009 just got a whole lot more interesting.

Riviera Nayarit

Riviera What? If you haven't heard of the Riviera Nayarit yet, that might be because it's just that new. The 200 miles of Pacific Coast and mountains north of Puerto Vallarta launched itself as a brand new destination just last year. Since then, it has been busy putting itself on the map, investing major time and funds into building new tourism infrastructures.

The region extends as far north as the colonial beach town of San Blas. Between Puerto Vallarta and San Blas, you'll find just about every vacation experience possible. From the bohemian surf town vibe of Sayulita to the luxury resorts and Jack Nicklaus golf course of Punta de Mita, the towns along the coast cater to all budgets and interests. Colonial towns and traditional Huichol villages in the nearby Sierra Madre Mountains offer a whole other dimension to the traditional beach vacation.

There's plenty to do, too. Endless beaches, six major golf courses, cultural experiences, archeological sites, and adventure activities like snorkeling, whale watching, surfing, and even swimming with dolphins and sea lions will likely start drawing bigger crowds as more people catch on to the appeal of Mexico's newest Riviera.

Since the Riviera Nayarit is so close to the major airport in Puerto Vallarta, it's easy to get to and airfares are competitive from departure points around the U.S. Southwest just announced a partnership with Volaris, which will extend Southwest's reach from points around the U.S. to Puerto Vallarta, though not until 2010.

There is also a wide variety of accommodations options offering something for every budget. For instance, at the Four Seasons Punta Mita, rates start at $535 a night. But at B&Bs in the smaller towns, rates start at around $60 a night. Vacation rentals can be even more affordable for groups traveling together. Plus, because it's not yet a major tourist destination like neighboring Puerto Vallarta, and because the region is spread out, it's easier to find affordable activities and food in the towns of the Riviera Nayarit.

Vancouver

With the 2010 Winter Olympics just around the corner, Vancouver is going all out with preparations for its time in the spotlight. By visiting in 2009, you can reap the benefits of all the new infrastructure developments while enjoying the city and everything it has to offer. And as a place voted Best City in the Americas by Conde Nast Traveller three years running, the expansions and improvements are really just icing on the cake.

New hotels�including The Loden Vancouver, Shangri-La Hotel, and the Fairmont Pacific Rim�are opening around the city in anticipation of the flood of Olympians and fans. Nearby Cypress Mountain ski resort has added nine new runs, new ski and snowboarding features, and a new lodge. And the rail extension connecting Vancouver's airport and downtown will open in late 2009.

Even though the Games don't begin until February 2010, you can catch some pre-Olympic action in 2009 at events such as the ISU Four Continents Figure Skating Championships, the FIS Freestyle World Cup, and the World Junior Curling Championships. Yes, that's right, there are junior curlers out there and they're gearing up to compete. In February and March there's also a Cultural Olympiad featuring more than 400 art, dance, music, and other events, many of which are free.

Vancouver provides solid vacation value as well. The exchange rate isn't as good as it used to be, but after hovering close to equal for a stretch, the U.S. dollar seems to be gaining the advantage again, meaning U.S. travelers' money goes farther. The city is served by a range of carriers, including Alaska Airlines, and Southwest has announced it will team up with Canadian carrier WestJet to fly to destinations in Canada. WestJet already serves Vancouver, so it seems more than possible that sometime next year passengers will be able to book a flight to Vancouver through Southwest.

Interested in visiting during the Olympics? Then you should know that more than 100,000 tickets will cost just $25, and that half of all the Olympic Winter Games tickets are priced at $100 or less.

Kansas City

Never considered Kansas City as a vacation destination before? Over the past few years, the city has been working hard to make itself a destination worth the trip. And the effort is paying off big time during 2009 when more than $9 billion in major improvements will be reinvigorating its downtown area and lending major credibility to its arts and dining scenes.

Recent developments include the new nine-block Power & Light District, downtown's newest mixed-use neighborhood packed with restaurants, shops, and entertainment and performance venues. There's also an outdoor stage featuring live entertainment more than 150 days a year. The Crossroads Arts District hosts one of the largest art walks in the nation from 7 to 9 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. Downtown, there's also the new Sprint Center, which hosts large concerts and special events, and the College Basketball Experience, a giant entertainment facility with interactive exhibits and the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.

Beyond downtown, revitalized and expanded attractions draw crowds as well. The well-known Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art just finished an expansion last year. Already ranked among the top art museums in the country, the new expansion increases the museum's exhibition space by one third, and makes more room for the museum's collections of modern and contemporary art, African art, and photography. And just in time for its 100th anniversary, the Kansas City Zoo has also undergone a major renovation.

As if that isn't enough, Kansas City is expanding its culinary reputation. Long known as a mecca for barbecue, a number of Kansas City chefs and their fine dining establishments�including Bluestem, American Restaurant, and Michael Smith�have recently received national recognition as well.

Even better (especially this year), Kansas City is one of the country's most affordable major cities to visit. It's well-served by airlines including American, Continental, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, and United. So much service means prices tend to stay competitive. Hotels, dining, and attraction costs tend to be less expensive than in many other cities around the country as well. In fact, Hotwire.com recently ranked Kansas City as one of the top value-priced destinations in the U.S. based on airfare, accommodations, and entertainment prices in 50 U.S. cities. Plus, there are dozens of free museums and attractions to visit.

The reasons to come will just keep expanding. 2010 will bring the opening of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, and the unveiling of a newly renovated Truman Sports Complex (home of the Kansas City Chiefs).

Peru

More people are visiting Peru every year. In fact, the country has the second highest tourism growth estimate in Latin America, and online travel provider Opodo reports that bookings to Lima, Peru, are up 98% over last year. Peru is supporting that growth with major funding of tourism infrastructures and projects.

But because Peru is home to Machu Picchu�a destination already feeling the ill-effects of overtourism�the country as a whole is invested in building a sustainable tourism program focused on creating and fostering destinations around Peru so that as visitor numbers increase, tourism doesn't endanger the very sites and cultures people come to see. And, capital city Lima is expanding and solidifying a place as a destination in itself, not just a portal to the rest of the country. New hotels are opening, and the government is investing heavily on tourism infrastructure developments in Lima and its environs.

Lima concentrates the appeal of Peru into an urban center. Rich in museums celebrating the heritage, culture, and natural beauty of the country, it also has colonial architecture, archeological ruins, scenic landscapes, and even beaches. Beyond Lima (and Machu Picchu), Peru offers unforgettable destinations like Caral, the archeological ruins of what is widely recognized as the oldest city in the Americas. Older than Machu Picchu, Caral is within driving distance from Lima and can be a day trip from the capital.

There's also Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable body of water, known for its floating islands housing entire communities of people; Colca Canyon, a canyon twice as deep as the Grand Canyon; and hundreds of other destinations worth exploring.

Compared to its neighboring countries, Peru can be a more affordable destination to fly to from the U.S. Why? Well, in addition to being served by American, Continental, Delta, and other large airlines such as TACA, Lima's airport is also served by low-cost-carrier Spirit Airlines, with service from Ft. Lauderdale.

Peru is an affordable country on the ground as well. The Peru Tourism Board estimates that a basic lunch costs $3 U.S., while a more elaborate meal is about $12. Accommodations range from $5 per night for super-budget to $90 for luxury properties. Not bad if you're trying to stretch those vacation dollars.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Each year, the E.U. bestows the title Capital of Culture to one or more European destinations. The cities celebrate the designation with a year of major arts and culture events and by hosting exhibitions. This year, Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has the honor along with Linz in Austria.

Vilnius is putting on quite a show in 2009 with 120 art and culture projects and 900 events. The city will also be part of a countrywide celebration of Lithuania's millennial year, as 2009 marks 1,000 years since the first known mention of the country in written records.

Two of the biggest events for the year take place in spring. On May 2 during Street Musician Day, amateur and professional musicians will flood into the city's streets, alleyways, and parks to play music ranging from rock to classical and folk to jazz. June 20 is Culture Night: Let There Be Night, when the city erupts into an all-night culture fest. The 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. event features night dance lessons, open-air movies, church concerts, fashion shows, museum exhibitions, and more. Other events and exhibitions will be on at different points throughout the year.

Though it's a member of the EU, Lithuania doesn't use the euro as its currency, which makes travel expenses such as accommodations, food, and activities more affordable. Add to the calculation that two-thirds of the events during the year-long celebration will be free, and Vilnius starts to look pretty affordable. Plus, the Old Town of Vilnius is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in Eastern Europe, so walking around and soaking up the scenery is one of the best, and cheapest, things to do.

Anniversaries and festivals

Big anniversaries and festivals offer yet another reason to travel in 2009. And, since many such celebrations include free events, it's a great way to get more for your money. Just remember to book accommodations early, since the events are likely to draw crowds.

Major anniversaries in 2009 include:

� 500th anniversary of Henry VIII's ascension to the throne. Expect major festivities at Hampton Court Palace and beyond.

� 250th anniversary of Kew Gardens. Special exhibitions will commemorate the event.

� 20th anniversary of fall of the Berlin Wall in Germany. There will be special exhibitions, memorials, tours, and walks. The Czech Republic and other Eastern European countries will also celebrate the 20th anniversary of the fall of communism in 2009.

� Alaska's 50th anniversary of Statehood. The Alaska Railroad is offering a free one-day pass anywhere the train travels to anyone who will turn 50 in 2009.

� Missouri Botanical Garden's 150th anniversary. One of the top botanical gardens in the world, it's also the oldest public garden in the U.S.

� 400th anniversary of Bermuda. The island will celebrate with special events.

� 200th anniversary of Edgar Allen Poe's birth. Baltimore is celebrating with Nevermore 2009, a year-long citywide festival.

Major festivals in 2009 include:

� Manchester International Festival 2009: The second biannual festival features original and new works of performing, music, and visual art.

� Homecoming Scotland 2009: Scotland is celebrating the 250th anniversary of Robert Burns' birth and Scotland's contributions to the world, including golf, whiskey, and Scottish heritage. Events take place all year.

� July 2009 XXV Song Celebration in Tallinn, Estonia: Estonia has a proud heritage of massive singing festivals, the next of which takes place from July 2 to 5.

� Holland Art Cities: Boasting more art and culture per square mile than anywhere else on earth, the two-year Holland Art Cities is an event hosted by ten of the top museums in four of Holland's largest cities. Two museums (including the Hermitage Amsterdam) will open as well.

� Around the world, demand is down and destinations are pushing hard for more visitors, so unusually good deals should be easy to find, at least through the first half of 2009. These and other emerging destinations provide added value since they tend to be even more affordable than more popular, established destinations. If you're looking for an affordable vacation in the coming year, an up-and-comer could be just the ticket.

SmarterTravel.com features expert travel advice and unbiased coverage of travel deals

WEATHER

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Currency

Last Week

Eric Nice Plays every Thursday at Mateja's

Most Events are Clickable

DECEMBER 2008

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Death of Jos�
Mar�a Morelos
(1815)

Nochebuenas

Navidad

29 30 31

2009

JANUARY 2009

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

1 2 3 4

A�o Nuevo
Market Day

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

D�a de los Reys

Market Day

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Market Day

D�a de San Antonio Abad - Feast of San Antonio Abad

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Birth of Ignacio
Allende (1779)

Market Day

26 27 28 29 30 31

Market Day

Go to the rest of the 2008 Calendar

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